CTL are proud to be members of the British Blind and Shutter Association
The Association
The British Blind & Shutter Association (BBSA), established in 1919, is the principal organisation representing the UK blind and shutter manufacturers and the companies that supply and serve them.
The BBSA, with membership of over 350 companies, speaks for the industry and represents it in dealings with UK and EC government agencies and other national groups.
Blinds & Shutters Exhibition
The BBSA organises its own highly successful exhibition. The latest fabrics, systems, components and control systems are on display. The last exhibition attracted nearly 2,400 visitors.
Publications
In addition to the annual "Directory of Blinds & Shutters", the BBSA has an official journal, "Blinds & Shutters" which is published quarterly and circulated to designers, architects and anyone interested in the purchase and specification of blinds and shutters.
A periodical trade journal "Openings" is also published and circulated within the blind and shutter trade.
Training
The Association recognises that training is essential if quality products and service are to be provided. The Association provides seminars for its members on a variety of subjects. The curriculum covers surveying and measuring, fixing and fixing systems, electrical installations, motors and control systems and health and safety procedures.
Code of Practice
The basic principles of fair and proper trading are embraced by the BBSA Code of Practice which every applicant must agree to abide by before being admitted into membership - upon annual renewal of their membership, existing members undertake to conform with specific requirements based on the provision of products which are fit for purpose and trading in a fair and proper manner. A copy can be downloaded from "Become a Member" page under "Save Time and Money".
Quality Management Systems - BS/EN/ISO 9000
The BBSA was quick off the mark in setting up a specially-tailored scheme for its members to enable them to meet the requirements of the internationally-recognised Standard for Quality Management Systems BS/EN/ISO 9000 (which has superseded British Standard BS5750). Detailed guidance is given on the requirements of the standard and, as a result, a number of BBSA members have already registered to BS/EN/ISO 9000.
Standards and Research
In common with many other Trade Associations in the UK, the BBSA is playing an active part in the preparation of European technical standards for the industry. The European Standards Committee (CEN) is producing a series of performance related European Standards to supersede national product standards which, if they remained in force, would constitute barriers to trade. The new harmonised standards will enable specifiers to compare the performance, durability and effectiveness of products, regardless of their origin within the CEN member countries.
The BBSA is a leading partner in a project called SHADE which is being co-ordinated by the Building Research Establishment. The aim of the project is to identify the sustainable benefits of solar shading and provide best practice advice for designers. Other participants include RIBA, Pilkington plc, Buro Happold, Southwark Energy Agency and the DETR which is providing 50% of the project funding. Main features of the project will be: energy audits, a Student Design Award, seminars and courses, and the publication of information papers and technical documents.