Ensuring that products meet the required standards is crucial for both customer satisfaction and regulatory compliance. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the role of the Marshalls in-house Central Laboratory, where meticulous testing and analysis go above and beyond to guarantee the quality of our wide range of products.
Meet Chris Wilson, the Central Laboratory Manager
At the heart of the Central Laboratory is Chris Wilson, the dedicated manager overseeing the operations at the Brookfoot Works. Chris's primary responsibility is to ensure that all products supplied throughout the Marshalls group meet the necessary standards. These products encompass our paving, mortars and screeds, civils and drains, and bricks and masonry divisions. On average, the lab tests over 1,700 samples each week, received from various Marshalls sites spanning from Scotland to the southern coast of Sittingbourne.
Testing to Meet British Standards
Adhering to British standards is of utmost importance. Each standard has its own set of specifications that must be met, and the Central Laboratory plays a vital role in ensuring we not only meet them, but exceed them. Every requirement of these standards is thoroughly tested and validated by the laboratory team, allowing us to continue to deliver on our commitment to premium quality materials.
Variety of Materials Tested
The Central Laboratory deals with a wide range of materials on a daily basis. Raw materials, end-finished products, and research and development samples are all subjected to rigorous testing to ensure we meet relevant standards. This comprehensive approach guarantees that Marshalls delivers consistent quality across its product offerings.
In-House Testing Capabilities
One significant advantage of the Central Laboratory is its extensive range of in-house testing equipment. Unlike many competitors who rely on third-party testing facilities, Marshalls performs these critical assessments on-site, often within a few hours of the product's arrival. Unlike external labs, which may have fixed testing schedules, the Central Laboratory has the flexibility to adapt its schedule to meet the needs of specific tests, further streamlining the process.
Benefits of In-House Testing
The ability to conduct testing in-house brings numerous advantages for Marshalls. First and foremost is the speed of reporting results. With their efficiency, the Central Laboratory team can promptly generate reports and certificates, addressing any queries or customer complaints without unnecessary delays. This enables us to provide customers with quick resolutions and maintain a high level of customer satisfaction. This is the Marshalls Way.
Environment and Sustainability
As well as ensuring quality, Marshalls is committed to sustainable practices. All samples that arrive at the Central Laboratory are recycled within the grounds of the Brookfoot Works. Materials such as concrete, natural stones, and tiles are crushed and repurposed as recycled materials, minimising waste and reducing the environmental impact of the testing process.
Water Testing and Compliance
It’s important to recognise the issues of water management and compliance with water authority standards. At the Brookfoot and Westlane sites, water samples are taken from various discharge points, allowing the team to closely monitor water quality. These samples are sent to the laboratory, where they are analysed within 48 hours of arrival. Testing includes heavy metal analysis using an AA spectrometer to detect lead, aluminium, and chromium, as well as measuring total suspended solids and pH levels. This stringent water testing ensures Marshalls meets the requirements set by the respective water authority boards and once again keeps environmental effects to a minimum.
A Premium Product for all Customers
Marshalls Central Laboratory plays a vital role in ensuring the quality and compliance of our products. With in-house testing capabilities, quick turnaround times, and a commitment to sustainability, we are able to provide our customers with premium materials that meet the highest standards. By choosing Marshalls, you can have confidence in the quality and reliability of our products for all your construction and paving needs.
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