Member Article

SigNET turns to ATK for baling needs

SigNET, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of audio life-safety equipment, has installed a waste baler from ATK Equipment at its facility in Tyne & Wear.

The RWM75 machine is now being used to deal with the ever-increasing amounts of waste recyclable materials held at the site – in the form of paper, plastic bags and cardboard.

Formed in 1994, SigNET has firmly established itself at the forefront of the life safety audio communication industry. Its market-leading offerings include the UK’s widest range of audio-frequency induction loop equipment (AFILS) and multiple award-winning voice alarm systems, along with one of Europe’s most respected emergency voice communication networks.

With all products manufactured at its Washington HQ, the firm – whose innovations are used across prestigious sites such as Hong Kong’s Chep Lap Kok airport, Sweden’s Museum of Modern Art and Egypt’s Dreamland theme park – has a strong commitment to the environment and strives to achieve its 85% target recycling rate, for paper and cardboard.

Prior to sourcing a baler, the business relied on a local recycling company to provide four waste bins, where flat-packed cardboard was held until the time of the bi-monthly collection.

Louise Swallow, production manager at SigNET said: “The cardboard was taking up far too much factory space and increasing the risk of a fire. In addition, as the volumes increased, so did the cost, and we therefore looked at other options.

“Following web-based research, baling appeared a far safer and more cost-effective alternative, and when Bill Walton, managing director of ATK, responded to an enquiry then carried out a site visit to assess our requirements, we were converted.”

The RWM75 machine was recommended – both for its simple operation and space-saving capabilities, plus the minimal maintenance outlay required. Now fully Installed, the company produces between 8-10 bales per month, collected by a local recycling company, and for which a rebate is provided.

Louise continues: “I was extremely surprised at how much cardboard can fit into a single bale – the equivalent of two recycling bins.

“It’s great to have ATK on our doorstep for any issues which may arise – and the competitive rental rates offered, along with our safe, efficient new way of managing packaging waste, mean we couldn’t be happier!”

Based in Seaham, ATK Equipment is a leading provider of waste processing machinery, including balers, compactors and crushers.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Katie Mallinson .