INDUSTRY NEWS Aico publishes guide to BS 5839-6:2019 With the recent changes to BS 5839-6:2019, Aico – a provider of domestic mains powered fire and carbon monoxide alarms – has condensed the information into a pocket-sized guide. British Standard BS 5839-6:2019 covers specific recommendations for fire alarm systems in all domestic premises, covering both new-build and existing properties. The standard contains a large amount of detail on all aspects relating to the design and installation of fire alarm systems, including the type of alarm to install and the areas of the property to protect.
NAPIT acquires Stroma Installer Certification NAPIT has announced the acquisition of Stroma’s Installer Certification. The acquisition will result in NAPIT taking over and operating the Stroma installer activities in the building services and building fabric sectors. The transaction will strengthen NAPIT’s commitment to continuously raise standards and safety within the construction industry and Stroma’s aim to focus on their core areas of service around environmental management, building performance testing and building control. NAPIT’s Group Chief Executive, Mike Andrews, says, “NAPIT has always been committed to continuously raising standards within the sector. We are confident that the acquisition of the installer activities part of the Stroma Group will result in a stronger and more robust registration and certification body for the industry. This opportunity will bring together the best of what both organisations have to offer, alongside our combined
Stiebel Eltron once again named ‘Superbrand’ Stiebel Eltron – a manufacturer of heat pumps, solar systems, electric hot water and heating products – has been named as a ‘Superbrand’ in Germany for the sixth consecutive year, following a year of strong growth. The company, which has its UK base in Bromborough, Wirral, joins 99 other household names such as Adidas, Miele and Playmobil as one of the strongest and most recognisable German brands – after facing off against strong competition in an initial suggested list of 1,350 nominees selected by a 23-person jury. ‘Superbrand’ status is judged by the Superbrand organisation, a brand rating group based in London. Its remit extends to judging the best brands across 88 countries.
To further support customers with the changes, Aico has updated its counter mat for wholesalers. The counter mat has a picture of a house with alarms in situ, providing the information about where to site alarms conforming to the changes in BS 5839-6:2019 Table 1. All of Aico’s alarms are designed and built in Ireland specifically to meet the UK standards and regulations. If you would like further information on the BS 5839-6:2019 updates, visit the website below or email marketing@aico.co.uk to order your free guide. Aico, aico.co.uk
experience, which will enable us to take the business forward in new and exciting ways for both our members and employees.” Over 3,500 existing Stroma Certification members will continue to be UKAS accredited under a new certification body named Stroma Installer Certification Limited. Martin Holt, Stroma’s Group Chief Executive, notes, “NAPIT has a strong reputation within the building services industry, and we’re confident that its passion and commitment to safety and certification will ensure our members and consumers receive an excellent service. The Stroma Group will continue to deliver market-leading certification and training for energy assessors, in addition to driving safety and compliance throughout the built environment via Stroma Building Control and Stroma Built Environment.” The terms of the transaction have not been released and will remain confidential between both parties. NAPIT, napit.org.uk
The title is awarded to companies based on overall brand dominance, customer loyalty, goodwill, longevity and brand acceptance. The win follows a strong period of growth and industry accolades for the organisation both internationally and in the UK. Mark McManus, Managing Director at Stiebel Eltron UK, says, “It’s been a strong year for the business both internationally and in the UK, driven by the continued push to improve energy performance and the growing popularity of electrical energy sources that minimise environmental impact. “This recognition lets us know that our brand is one that people trust, and this is a fundamental part of business success for organisations like ours. We’re looking forward to building on this momentum and continuing to live up to the standards we have set for ourselves.”
Take on a challenge for the EIC Are you an enthusiastic individual who is looking for a new challenge that would push you to the limits? If so, the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) has a challenge for everyone to get involved in and create some everlasting memories while supporting your industry colleagues. You can make a difference and help EIC to offer continuous support for hundreds of people within the electrical sector by taking part in a wide range of sporting challenges, such as running for the charity in the 2020 Virgin Money London Marathon, taking part in EIC golf or fishing days, or by creating your own challenge. You can also get involved by attending some of the biggest industry events, including powerBall 2019, the Western Equinox Ball, one of the 2019 Christmas Lunches held in a wide range of locations, Valentine’s Ball 2020 and many more glitzy and glamorous events. For further information – along with details on an upcoming Inca Trail trip to Peru in September 2020 – contact Jess Vailima by emailing jess. vailima@electricalcharity.org. The Electrical Industries Charity, electricalcharity.org
Stiebel Eltron, stiebel-eltron.co.uk
MOVERS & SHAKERS Contrac Lighting, a manufacturer of lighting solutions for the industrial, retail, public and commercial sectors, has appointed Richard Hunt as its new Managing Director. Tridonic has welcomed Chris Slattery to its team. He takes on the role of OEM Controls and Solutions Manager, moving over from his previous role as Emergency Lighting Product Manager. UPS manufacturer, Centiel UK, has appointed Andrew Skelton as its new Operations Manager. He will oversee the delivery and deployment of Centiel’s full range of market leading UPS solutions for projects across the UK.
Stiebel Eltron received its Superbrand prize once again in 2019
8 | September 2019
Jim Hutchison, a well-known figure in the electrical industry, is the new Commercial Manager at Scolmore. He joins from his most recent role as National Sales Manager at Electrium.