April-May 2021

updates from 42 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS April/May 2021 www.hpmag.co.uk Contact BCAS at Tel: 020 7935 2464 e-mail: info@bcas.org.uk website: www.bcas.org.uk The British Compressed Society comments: The Chancellor’s ‘super deduction’ is a record-breaking opportunity for businesses to reduce their corporation tax liability by 130% of the value of any investment they are making in the next two years on compressed air systems. This equates to a significant cash windfall for businesses and will help to bolster cash flow at a critical time. Companies will be able to claim a deduction from their tax bill if they invest in compressor systems for their business. Under the super deduction for qualifying expenditure incurred from 1 April 2021 up to and including 31 March 2023, companies can claim: A super-deduction providing allowances of 130% on most new plant and machinery investments that ordinarily qualify for 18% main rate writing down allowances. First-year allowance of 50% on most new plant and machinery investments that ordinarily qualify for 6% special rate writing down allowances. The range includes anything from computer equipment to a new production line and for air users includes compressors, dryers, gas generators, vacuum pumps and low-pressure equipment. For further information, visit BCAS’s dedicated webpage at www.bcas.org.uk/time-to-invest-in-captial-equipment-super-deduction- tax-break.aspx Time to invest in capital equipment Working safely with compressed air Companies that are looking for a quick and simple way to train their employees in the safe use of compressed air can now benefit from the British Compressed Air Society’s (BCAS) working safely with compressed air training course – with a 25% discount for customers of BCAS members (excluding trade customers). Compressed air is a safe and reliable form of power, accounting for approximately 10 per cent of all the energy used by industry. However, it is important that both employers and their employees know how to work safely and understand the risks involved if good practice is not followed. The one-hour, online workshop helps to fulfil employers’ health and safety obligations and provides evidence that each participant has understood safe working practices and their responsibilities. Straightforward and easy to follow, the course covers the hazards of compressed air as an energy source, the use of personal protective equipment, employer and employee responsibilities with respect to health and safety when using compressed air and a list of safe working practices to be followed. Vanda Jones, BCAS executive director, comments: “BCAS is recognised within the industry as a provider of training and development for engineers, technical professionals and users of compressed air. Working with our members we develop training based on industry standards and best practice. These include specialist courses that are tailored to the needs of industry professionals, end users and suppliers; that combine the safe working and understanding of compressed air with its multiple uses. “Now, more than ever, this training must be delivered to suit the needs of a dynamic and changing workforce. It’s why we have invested in our new e- learning portal, allowing delegates to learn at a pace, and from a location, that suits – and the one-hour, Certificate in Working Safely with Compressed Air is a great place to start.” To find out more about the Certificate in Working Safely with Compressed Air course from BCAS, visit www.rebrand.ly/BCASWSWCA For further information about the additional 25% discount, contact your local BCAS member, email training@bcas.org.uk or call 0207 935 2464