ECN November 2019 by All Things Media

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VOLUME 39 NO. 11 • NOVEMBER 2019

SPECIAL FEATURE: FIRE, SAFETY & SECURITY

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SECURITY AT THE HEART OF SCREWFIX Tools are pivotal for any electrical contractor’s livelihood, and the risk of them going missing or being stolen is a constant threat. Electricfix, part of the Screwfix brand, has the perfect range of solutions to help overcome this ongoing security challenge. Whether it’s protection from theft or just getting the job done right first time, Electricfix provides security for its trade customers. With access to Screwfix’s catalogue of 33,000 products and a dedicated Electricfix catalogue, Electricfix account holders can be confident that whatever they need for the job is available today or the next day at one of over 650 Screwfix stores. A recent survey of Screwfix customers revealed that 46% of respondents have had their tools stolen, reinforcing the importance of helping tradespeople secure both their tools and livelihoods with the latest technology.

Turn to page 12 for the full story.

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CONTENTS VOLUME 39 NO. 11 • NOVEMBER 2019

CONTENTS… Regulars 4 Editor’s Comment

18 Key Issue

Game-changing innovation on show at Screwfix Live.

6 News The IET urges industry to have its say, a milestone for the ECS scheme, a new Knightsbridge catalogue, and more.

12 Cover Story

Bureau Veritas advises taking a safety-first approach with RCDs.

20 Project Focus Megaman lighting solutions have been installed in public toilets in Shropshire.

Features

22 In The Know

With the risk of tools being stolen a constant threat, Electricfix has the perfect range of solutions to help overcome this ongoing security challenge.

Jeff Richardson discusses fire rated downlights and the importance of testing.

Simon Rowley reports back from Super Rod’s Hall of Fame event in Wales.

26 Ask The Expert

14 Contract News An LED retrofit at a pet care warehouse, an east London housing contract, cable clamps in Bahrain, and more.

Paul Collins tackles FAQs from contractors on the topic of RCD selection.

28 Sponsored Wylex explains everything you need to know before your next AFDD installation.

42 Competition

16 Training

A chance to win a £250 voucher and a donation to the EIC, courtesy of Hylec.

A new EV qualification on offer, an acquisition for JTL, and more.

59 Company Showcase Sponsored content from around the sector.

24 Event Review

40 Comment Phil Hansen of Connected Distribution provides details on how electrical contractors can get onto the custom installation ladder.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

Fire, Safety & Security recently stepped in 30 ABB to help protect an historic

Wiring Accessories Systems has 36 Static designed, supplied and

town hall in the Netherlands against arc faults. Baldwin looks at the 32 Neil latest CCTV options that contractors should be considering. etails of a new fire alarm 34 Dcontrol panel from Firesafe that is reducing labour and maintenance costs to the end-user.

installed a fire alarm and management system at the Royal Papworth Hospital.

Reece Safety, a supplier of life critical safety products, looks at the correct way to respond in an arc flash emergency.

is celebrating a 44 Eurolite year of significant growth and expansion, with the development of its highly popular Enhance range as the primary focus. Jaundrill of Volex 47 Alex Accessories discusses the importance of quality and aesthetics when choosing wiring accessories.

Energy Management Parry looks at why 50 Marie simple, white accessories are the bread and butter for the electrical contractor. Hatter looks at the 52 Andy importance of completing contracts in a timely fashion, and explains how the new Debox SL2 can assist with this.

University of 54 The Edinburgh has increased protection and reduces its energy use thanks to energy efficiency solutions from Kohler Uninterruptable Power (KUP). new-build properties 56 With increasingly turning to electric heating solutions, Tansun assesses the benefits that infrared heating can bring.

November 2019 | 3

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EDITORIAL

NEXT TIME…

Test & Measurement

A RECORD-BREAKING EVENT FOR SCREWFIX LIVE

elcome to the November issue of ECN. Hot off the heels of a record-breaking Screwfix Live exhibition at the end of September, this month’s cover story from Screwfix focuses on one of the key trends and themes that were prevalent across the show floor – security. Keeping tools safe has been an ongoing challenge for electricians and contractors since the year dot, but with technology progressing, there are increasingly unique ways to ensure security. One such example – which I witnessed first-hand at Screwfix Live – was the One-Key solution from Milwaukee. Providing a digital eye on all your tool inventory and users, it allows you to pinpoint missing tools quickly, and utilises some intriguing geofencing technology. Turn to page 12 for more.

Speaking with those involved in the show during the exhibition, there was a general consensus that the latest regulations are forcing suppliers to think in more creative ways, which is resulting in some dynamic products that are pushing the industry forward. Innovation is also being driven by customer demand, along with a genuine desire to do the right thing from an environmental perspective. Screwfix is also observing a ‘smarter’ demand for all kinds of products, with a new wave of smart product development and innovation across all categories – in addition to even more complex full-home solutions. Electrical contractors are also seeking greater power to ensure uninterruptible work, and they want more powerful tools with longer lives. Judging by the equipment on show at Screwfix Live, it’s safe to say this demand is being met – and then some. Enjoy the issue!

EDITOR: SIMON ROWLEY T: 01634 673163 E: simon@allthingsmedialtd.com

Published monthly by All Things Media Ltd., Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent ME5 8UD. Tel: 01634 673163 Fax: 01634 673173

GROUP ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER: KELLY BYNE T: 01634 673163 E: kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com STUDIO MANAGER: BEN BRISTOW T: 01634 673163 E: ben@allthingsmedialtd.com

Screwfix welcomed more than 20,000 visitors across the weekend, crowned Britain’s Top Tradesperson 2019 and hosted Q&As with football legends, Matt Le Tissier, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Emile Heskey

Tools & Workwear

Simon Rowley, Editor

UPS & Power Distribution

December Issue Advertising deadline: November 22 Editorial deadline: November 20

BUSINESS SUPPORT ADMINISTRATOR: CAROL GYLBY T: 01634 673163 E: carol@allthingsmedialtd.com MANAGING DIRECTOR: DAVID KITCHENER T: 01634 673163 E: david@allthingsmedialtd.com ACCOUNTS T: 01634 673163 E: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com

ECN charity of choice

The editor and publishers do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication. In all matters the editor’s decision is final. Editorial contributions to ECN are welcomed, and the editor reserves the right to alter or abridge text prior to the publication. Overseas Subscription Rates: Europe £60.00; Rest of World £70.00. Copyright © 2019, All rights reserved. Printed by Micropress, Reydon Business Park Fountain Way, Reydon, Southwold, IP18 6SZ.

Editorial.indd 4

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INDUSTRY NEWS HAMILTON LAUNCHES CPD ON SMART LIGHTING CONTROL Hamilton Litestat has launched a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training programme entitled An ‘Intelligent’ and ‘Smart’ approach to lighting control. Accredited by The CPD Certification Service, its aim is to educate about new technologies and help trainees and qualified electrical wholesalers/installers upskill in the area of smart lighting control.

With technology moving at such a fast pace, CPD training helps to ensure that academic and practical qualifications do not become obsolete. Hamilton’s CPD focused on smart lighting control is designed to encourage proactive learning, as well as help identify and capitalise on valuable new business opportunities within the growing smart control sector. The CPD provides an overview and history of the lighting control sector; an appreciation of where it can be used; an introduction to smart lighting control and the different protocols currently on offer; the integration of other smart control applications such as blind control, and an introduction to smart audio control. Gavin Williams, Hamilton’s Head of Marketing, comments, “The CPD provides details on the latest lighting technology to suit the residential, hotel, commercial and retail sectors, as well as exploring smart audio control solutions too, which are increasing rapidly in popularity.” The programme, which takes one hour plus questions, is delivered by Hamilton’s

knowledgeable staff and can be undertaken at the company’s Bristol headquarters or London showroom. To book, contact Alison Osmond on 01747 860088 or email cpd@ hamilton-litestat.com Hamilton Litestat, hamilton-litestat.com

IET URGES INDUSTRY TO HAVE ITS SAY The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) is calling on the electrical industry to have its say and influence the content of Section 722 – Electrical Vehicle Charging Installations – as part of Amendment 1 of the IET Wiring Regulations, following the release of the Draft for Public Comment (DPC) for BS 7671:2018+A1:2020. The amendment follows advances in technology enabling a more practical solution for electric vehicle charging installations. The amendment, which is due to be published in early 2020, will be free to view on the IET and BSI websites and will form part of a consolidated version of BS 7671 following the next major amendment, expected in 2022. The DPC is available on BSI’s website, and industry is invited to view the draft and submit comments by the deadline of November 30. Mark Coles, Head of Technical Regulations at the IET, comments, “Technical committees have been able to address a new opportunity for EV charging installations that provides a practical solution benefiting industry, consumers and government alike, to help the UK lead the way in the roll-out of infrastructure to support the electric vehicle revolution. “This update to the IET Wiring Regulations puts the electrical industry at the forefront of driving technological innovation to ensure the installation of practical, safe charging points that are accessible to all. “By producing Amendment 1 to BS 7671:2018 as a standalone, free-to-view document, this updated Section 722 will reach industry much quicker than a full, consolidated amendment would allow, enabling installers to take advantage of BS 7671:2018+A1:2020 as soon as possible.” The IET, theiet.org

MILESTONE FOR ECS SCHEME Over 20,000 ECS cardholders have now signed up for ECS Registered Electrician status. Initially launched in October 2017, when BS7671:2008 (the 17th Edition of the Wiring Regulations) were in place, the number of cardholders achieving the recently introduced BS7671:2018 (the 18th Edition) has steadily grown. Now, over half of all ECS Registered Electricians hold the 18th Edition qualification, with more upgrading from 17th to 18th each month. The JIB established ECS Registered Electrician status to recognise those who are not only working at the industryrecognised Level 3 standard, but also have the current edition of the Wiring Regulations. Registered Electrician cardholders can gain a welldeserved endorsement for their professionalism and skills, stand out amongst their peers and get a valuable boost to their status and credibility. For electrical contractors, it’s an

opportunity to demonstrate that their electrical workforce is up to date on the latest industry technology developments and is committed to maintaining this level of professionalism. Steve Brawley, JIB Chief Executive, comments, “I am very pleased at the success of the ECS Registered Electrician status, which we launched under two years ago. Our cardholders have shown their appetite for demonstrating that they hold the latest edition of the regs, and we must congratulate them for raising the bar.” To be eligible for Registered Electrician status, cardholders must meet the existing gold card requirements for an Installation or Maintenance Electrician, hold the BS7671:2018 qualification and sign up to a Code of Professional Conduct, which includes a commitment to working professionally and responsibly. ECS, ecscard.org.uk

6 | November 2019

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INDUSTRY NEWS RED ARROW TRADING REBRANDS WITH FOCUS ON LIGHTING Red Arrow Trading has been rebranded as Red Arrow Electrical Distribution (RAED). In addition, the company has opened a new manufacturing centre in China, which promises to offer customers a full lighting design service. Previously the Managing Director of Crompton Lamps, Michael Crossley has acquired Red Arrow Trading and is transforming the business into a streamlined, qualityfocussed manufacturer and distributor fit for today’s marketplace, with a key focus on lighting. After rebranding as Red Arrow Electrical Distribution (RAED) in May this year, the company’s 4,000 plus customers can still expect competitively priced products, but they will now also benefit from superior quality and much faster service delivery. Starting with the removal of the less popular trading items, customers will now enjoy easier access to RAED’s 3,000 plus strong product range, along with a new selection of lighting products planned for 2020. Crossley comments, “We are in the process of integrating ISO9001/14001 accreditation and streamlining our offering. By removing some trading items, we can develop our key area of strength - lighting. This means we are now able to offer all our customers a full lighting design service.” Plus, with a complete overhaul of both stock management and delivery across the brand, RAED can ensure much faster and more reliable delivery services. The website’s URL, contact details and core staff have remained the same – minimising any potential disruption for customers. Red Arrow Electrical Distribution, redarrowtrading.com

KNIGHTSBRIDGE PUBLISHES 2020 CATALOGUE Knightsbridge has launched its 2020 catalogue – a new edition that promises to provide more complete lighting and wiring solutions than ever before. Since 1998, Knightsbridge has established itself as one of the UK’s leading importers and distributors of lighting products and wiring accessories. With over 22 years of growth under its belt, the company has built a reputable portfolio of complete lighting and wiring solutions. New additions to the 2020 catalogue include an extended range of grid wiring solutions, new ranges of CCT adjustable LED luminaires, high-power LED floodlights and smart downlights, providing a cost-efficient, one-stop-shop for installers across the UK. Knightsbridge is committed to improving its diverse range of products, all while providing first-class customer service and expert technical assistance wherever required. Alongside the growth, the company is also committed to reducing its carbon footprint, introducing FSC compliant packaging earlier this year. Visit the website listed below to request or download your copy today. ML Accessories, mlaccessories.co.uk

STATE-OF-THE-SECTOR RESEARCH FINDINGS Research released by the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) shows that in-person support offered by wholesaler trade counter teams is still a highly valued resource for electrician and contractor customers, despite the proliferation of ecommerce channels. This is just one of the findings in the EDA’s Sector Survey 2019, the Association’s latest piece of substantial research. Manufacturers, wholesalers and contractors were asked to share their views on six themes: biggest business challenges; product quality and new competitors; quality, price and validation; ecommerce attitudes; challenges of digitalisation; and information channels. Ecommerce channels dominated the results, presenting the biggest concern for wholesalers, with contractors and manufacturers more troubled by issues surrounding product availability, quality and price. A significant disconnect occurs between wholesalers and contractors on the subject of price: 88% of wholesalers said their customers asked for the lowest price even if the brand was unfamiliar, with 80% of contractors declaring the opposite. Margaret Fitzsimons, CEO at the EDA, comments, “The survey results, analysis and commentary will spark discussion and dialogue along the three-step supply chain, as businesses wrestle with the challenges and opportunities presented by ecommerce and the buying habits of millennial contractors and electricians. “Wholesalers have an opportunity to leverage their trusted-intermediary status, providing vital support to their customers as part of a multi-channel presence that also delivers the high levels of service and efficiency that we are all so used to as consumers. “There is also trepidation about the quality and reliability of products available on the market, particularly the unfamiliar names, with all three audiences scoring high levels of concern. “The results provide interesting topics on which the industry can work together, and we look forward to collaborating with trade associations above and below us in the electrotechnical supply chain.” EDA, eda.org.uk

8 | November 2019

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INDUSTRY NEWS ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR COMPETITION OPEN FOR ENTRIES The Electrical Apprentice of the Year competition run by NICEIC and Elecsa is now open for entries. The contest, which takes place over three stages, tests the skills and knowledge of the UK’s brightest electrical talents. Hundreds of students take part each year to be in with a chance of winning some fantastic prizes, including a £2,000 holiday voucher and the prestigious title of Electrical Apprentice of the Year. Darren Staniforth, Group Senior Technical Presenter for NICEIC and Elecsa, says, “As the most recognised name in the industry, NICEIC and Elecsa have a responsibility to work with, encourage and promote electrical apprentices. “We are committed to developing the talent of the future and are looking forward to seeing what the next group of contestants will bring to the competition. The overall standard seems to get better each year. The competition continues its partnership with The Scolmore Group, which provides prizes for all eight finalists, including holiday vouchers, iPads, and toolbags packed with electrical accessories. Last year saw over a thousand apprentices register their interest in the competition, with 31-year-old Richard Bradley from Southport, Merseyside taking home the top prize.

MOVERS & SHAKERS… Jamie McIntyre, 28, one of MPACT Group’s most qualified electricians, has been promoted to the role of Project Engineer. He will move away from construction sites and into MPACT’s offices in Loanhead. Heating products manufacturer, Stiebel Eltron UK, has expanded its team with the appointment of Brett Baxter as Regional Specification Manager for the North-West. He will focus on driving sales of the company’s home comforts range, including instantaneous hot water and electric heating products. Domus Ventilation, part of the Polypipe group, has further expanded its specification team with the appointment of John Tilburn as Specification Sales Manager. He will provide specification support and drive sales in the residential sector across North London, Kent and Sussex. Hamilton Litestat has appointed Tony Coad as its new Area Sales Manager for the East London and East Anglia regions. Having held positions in the lighting and electrical industry for over 30 years, Coad brings a wealth of experience to the company.

The competition consists of three stages and is open to all students undertaking electrical studies or an apprenticeship. Stage one, which is now open for registration, is an online test comprising of 40 multiple

choice questions. Applicants have 80 minutes to complete the test, which can be accessed via the URL below. NICEIC, niceic.com/apprentice

EUROPEAN REPORT HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF ELECTRICIANS The head of Scotland’s largest trade association has highlighted a major European report on the importance of electricians to an increasingly digital-dependent society, which strongly reinforces the sector’s campaign for Recognition of Electricians as a profession. The first ever Europe-wide sector report – published by AIE, the European Association of Electrical Contractors – emphasises the vital, safety-critical contribution which electricians make to day-to-day life across the continent, as well as being key players in major advances in infrastructure, the digital economy and climate change goals. It points out that the 300,000 electrical companies in the EU and EFTA have a combined annual turnover of €214 billion (£184bn) and employ 1.8 million highly-skilled and technically proficient people, or one in every 134 professionals. Alan Wilson, Managing Director of Select, the campaigning body for the electrotechnical sector in Scotland, which contributed to the report, says, “This snapshot of the electrical sector across Europe confirms that the work of electricians is more complex and more highly valued than that of other construction professionals. “The intricacies of modern electrical installation underpin everything from the internet to cars, hospitals, homes and businesses, and the ubiquity of electricity and its applications must soon be recognised with professional status. “This is why Select and other organisations – backed by many influential individuals and MSPs – have been campaigning so vigorously for Protection of Title for electricians in Scotland, a campaign which is being considered in Parliament even now.” The report reveals that electrical companies account for 15% of the overall construction sector turnover in Europe and that growth is being driven by decentralised and green technologies. Select, select.org.uk

CERTSURE RAISES £26,000 FOR ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH Certsure, the organisation that operates the NICEIC and Elecsa brands, has raised £26,000 for Alzheimer’s Research UK (ARUK). In September 2017, Certsure employees chose to partner with ARUK, Europe’s leading dementia research charity, as its official charity. Since the partnership began, employees have taken part in charity and fundraising opportunities including charity auctions, sweepstakes, fantasy football competitions, bake sales and charity runs. Some of the biggest donations have come from a charity skydive in 2018 which raised over £10,000 and a trek to Machu Picchu earlier this year, raising over £7,000. Katy Abraham-Hall, Regional Corporate Partnership Officer at ARUK, comments, “It has been a fantastic two years working with Certsure. I am so impressed, but not surprised at how much money they have raised. Certsure’s support is helping to power pioneering research that will lead to the breakthroughs we need to discover life-changing treatments for dementia. Thanks to the wonderful people at Certsure, we’re even closer to bringing about the first life-changing treatment for dementia and transforming the lives of everyone affected by the condition.” There are currently 850,000 people in the UK living with dementia, and it is set to rise to one million people by 2025. It is only through vital research carried out by ARUK that finding a solution to the problem is possible. Certsure, certsure.com

10 | November 2019

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COVER STORY

PREVENTING TOOL THEFT WITH SCREWFIX With tool theft on the rise, it’s imperative that electrical contractors take proactive measures to minimise the risks. Screwfix explains how to best protect your tools and introduces One-Key, an industry-changing technology from Milwaukee.

s the winter months arrive and the evenings draw in, security awareness becomes even more crucial across all trades. Tradespeople who have been victims of tool theft are having to replace up to £5,000 worth of tools and can lose up to two days of vital earnings, impacting both their professional and personal lives, a recent Screwfix survey found. After research amongst its customers, 46% of respondents stated they have had their tools stolen, and 39% said they’ve had them stolen at least twice. When it comes to protecting their tools, the majority of tradespeople said they take measures to keep their tools safe, with the most popular methods being ‘removing tools from the van overnight’ (26%) and ‘installing CCTV’ (18%). There was also a strong feeling with 56% believing that more should be done to help protect tradespeople’s tools and vans.

How can Screwfix help you protect your tools? One way in which Screwfix is showing its support is through tool marking. Local authorities are hosting events across Screwfix stores to help prevent tool theft, driving awareness and providing tips to prevent future thefts. As well as this, Screwfix sells products with the integrated system Milwaukee One-Key. Milwaukee One-Key is an industrychanging technology that has been integrated into several premium products to allow a new level of control and access to information through a free digital platform that will revolutionise the way work gets done. The free to use cloud-based application, One-Key, provides a digital eye on all your tool inventory and users, allowing you to pinpoint missing tools quickly. Tool lock-out allows you to

remotely shut the tool down the next time it comes within range of any One-Key app, preventing theft and tampering. Plus, Screwfix also sells a range of van vault products which provides maximum storage in the vehicle for larger tools and protects from both the elements and opportunist thieves.

How can tradespeople protect their customers? With security in mind, as we head into the months of the year when theft rates rise, Electricfix allows our tradespeople to access the products they need to help prevent their customers falling victim to theft. Chris Wells, the Electrical Category Manager at Screwfix, says, “Our aim at Screwfix is to ensure we offer our busy tradespeople the right products. At this time of year, it’s important to us that tradespeople know they have access to products that keep themselves and their customers secure. Electricfix allows electricians to purchase what they need to complete their jobs from start to finish and advise their customers on the latest products available. “We can cover all external requirements, along with IP rated glands, to complete the job. We have a fantastic range of trade rated LAP floodlights which are great for anybody looking for security or just functional lighting in their home. We’ve also got SWA cable available in every store today and weatherproof switches and sockets from MK, BG and LAP.” The smarter homes get, the more opportunities there are for tradespeople to expand their repertoire. CCTV is proven to be huge detractor to thieves and the growing, affordable range of smart CCTV that seamlessly links to existing devices is making it easier and easier to prevent theft. Wells continues, “Our dedicated trade counters for electricians allow us to have a chat over a cuppa, get to know you face-toface and get the industry leading products you need now and later. We’re open early until late every day.”

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“Our aim at Screwfix is to ensure we offer our busy tradespeople the right products.”

UK tradespeople who have their tools stolen have to replace

An Electricfix account provides security, convenience and value for customers. Account holders have access to a dedicated trade counter in Screwfix stores, where staff will be on hand to support from start to finish and provide a price for the whole job. Industry leading brands such as Schneider, Eaton, Aico and Crabtree are available at preferential prices in as little as a minute with click and collect, and next day delivery to site or store. Screwfix, screwfix.com

12 | November 2019

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CONTRACT NEWS LIGHTING UPGRADE FOR SPORTS TRAINING BASE When Surrey Sports Park, one of Europe’s premier sites for sport, health, wellbeing and leisure, needed an upgrade to its existing lighting, Thorn Lighting came up with a perfect solution. Utilising a variety of Thorn’s luminaires, a scheme was designed that is compatible with today’s technology and that can be easily upgraded. The overriding factor in the brief for the lighting solution was to upgrade to energy efficient, low maintenance LED lighting whilst improving the overall illumination of the facility using funding recouped from the energy savings obtained. The use of Thorn’s Glacier II, modern and efficient decorative LED pendant luminaires in the reception has created a bright and vibrant space. Glacier II is a high-performance luminaire (91-124 lm/W) with a long, maintenance-free lifetime of 50,000 hours that offers an efficient alternative to HID pendants. Thorn’s Areaflood Pro, with a special coating for harsh atmospheres, was chosen for the illumination of the swimming pool. A low-energy, low-cost LED alternative to HID floodlights, the IP66 rated Areaflood Pro is highly efficient (more than 110 lm/W) and has a substantial 100,000-hour lifetime for both the LED (L90B10) and drivers (Ta25°C). Duoproof, a range of sealed, IP65 rated, recessed fluorescent luminaires and Chalice LED downlights have been installed in the swimming changing areas to create the ideal ambience. Thorn Lighting, thornlighting.co.uk

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ELLIS CLAMPS HELP TO SECURE BAHRAIN’S INFRASTRUCTURE

Mechanical and electrical building services provider, J S Wright, has secured a deal worth more than £1.5 million for a major new development of affordable housing in east London. The Birmingham-based company, which has an office in central London, is to fit out all 70 apartments and communal spaces at Jolles House on Bromley High Street in Tower Hamlets. The one- to three-bed all-affordable scheme is being developed within two linked six-storey buildings by housebuilder Hill to help meet a growing local need for high-quality affordable accommodation. J S Wright will design and build the heating, hot and cold water, drainage and ventilation services for the landscaped development on the site of the previously demolished Jolles House and Blue Anchor public house. The energy efficient and carbon-reducing systems and services will include a low-pressure hot water (LPHW) heating system with distribution pipework to feed radiators in all the apartments, as well as a cold-water plantroom to deliver boosted cold water as part of the domestic hot and cold-water services. J S Wright will also supply and install a heat interface unit (HIU) in each apartment as a bridge to deliver instant hot water on demand and hot water to the radiators at low return temperatures. The installation of sanitaryware, above ground drainage and internal rainwater systems are also part of the commission. In addition, the company will fit a mechanical ventilation heat recovery (MVHR) system, which recovers outgoing air from each apartment to heat incoming fresh air, and dry risers and domestic sprinklers for fire protection.

Cable clamps designed and manufactured by Ellis in North Yorkshire have been used to secure electrical cables in Bahrain that are being laid as part of a $4 billion (£3.2bn) project to enhance the Middle Eastern kingdom’s water and electricity networks. Aimed at enabling Bahrain to comfortably accommodate its growing population and support its economic progress, the project involves an upgrade of the main backbone transmission network to 400kV, with three main transmission substations being built in Hidd, Umm Al Hassam and Riffa. Ellis’ 2A Aluminium cable clamps and special compression springs were specified through Bahrain-based distributor, Amad Baeed Electrical WLL, by Korean cable specialist, LS Cable and System. The clamps are manufactured from LM6 aluminium and are available in sizes ranging from 38mm to 168mm. Primarily used in transmission and distribution projects in unpolluted environments, they can also be supplied with an epoxy coating for use in harsher environments, and Neoprene liners for additional cable protection. Amongst the key benefits of Bahrain’s 400kV upgrade is that it will raise the capability and reliability of the kingdom’s power network, and importantly reduce the issues of the high shortcircuit levels in various parts of the network to a safe level. When short-circuit faults do still occur, Ellis’ cable clamps will ensure the affected cables remain in place and that any supply downtime is kept to a minimum.

J S Wright, jswright.co.uk

MR. ELECTRIC HELPS DPD ROLL OUT EV FLEET Mr. Electric, an authorised OLEV accredited installer of electric vehicle (EV) charging points, recently assisted UK parcel delivery company, DPD, with the roll out of its fleet of EV delivery vans in Cornwall by providing a one-stop EV charging solution for two of its delivery drivers. Two DPD drivers, Nick Lott and Simon Penter, recently made the switch from diesel to a 100% electric van so they could reduce their fuel and running costs, whilst making their business more sustainable and efficient. Equipped with their new Nissan e-NV200 small vans, the drivers needed an affordable and user-friendly EV charging point installed at their homes to enable them to fulfil their daily deliveries from a single charge. Another key functionality was having a fast home charger which would charge their EV vans whilst they slept. Tasked with finding an accredited EV installer, Lott selected Mr. Electric due to its high levels of professionalism and customer service from start to finish. Following Lott’s recommendation, DPD colleague, Simon Penter, also employed Mr. Electric and was equally pleased. Lott comments, “I have become more environmentally and economically minded with my new EV van, and have even taken advantage of a new off-peak electricity tariff to help reduce costs further. Being able to charge my van easily and quickly at home is essential for my business, and I am hugely grateful to Mr. Electric for making this possible.”

Ellis, ellispatents.co.uk

Mr. Electric, mr-electric.co.uk

14 | November 2019

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CONTRACT NEWS LONDON FURNITURE SHOP IN THE SPOTLIGHT When furniture shop, Davidson, wanted to change the LED lighting system at its showroom in Chelsea Harbour, London, it opted for Yori Evo fittings from Reggiani. Davidson is a family-run company that designs, manufactures and installs bespoke, high-end furniture. It works with interior designers, architects, project managers and private clients to provide elegant, unique pieces worldwide. The original lighting system incorporated wide-beam spotlights that created unwanted glare on the furniture on display and didn’t show the pieces to their best potential. Lighting Design International (LDI), based in Hammersmith, was approached with a brief to find the right specification of spotlight to eliminate the glare issues and literally show the space in a new and better light. LDI chose Reggiani’s Yori Evo Box system for its colour rendering index (CRI), a good range of beam angles, and the assortment of accessories to choose from to achieve the perfect illumination via honeycomb louvres and softening lenses. Working closely with Reggiani, LDI devised a system using a mixture of narrow and medium-beam matt black spotlights that would ‘pinspot’ and highlight each piece of furniture and decorative artefacts on display to make them stand out and provide real impact throughout the showroom. Reggiani, reggiani.net

LED LIGHTING RETROFIT AT PET CARE WAREHOUSE EcolightingUK has installed new LED lighting at the Butcher’s Pet Care warehouse facility in Crick, Northamptonshire, upgrading the company’s previous systems to Ecolighting’s most popular fittings. Dating back to 1987, Butcher’s Pet Care specialises in the production of high-quality foods for cats and dogs. The company recently had its entire site retrofitted using Ecolighting’s recommended LED luminaires, of which 647 were installed internally, and 107 externally. Butcher’s Pet Care set a brief of a zero cost (zero capital outlay) project which was facilitated through Ecolighting’s new lease purchase offering. The solution meant that the company wouldn’t pay any capital upfront and would just pay a monthly lease purchase cost, which was outweighed significantly by the monthly savings. Chosen for installation at the site were Pegasus LED, Sapphire LED and Osram/Ledvance LED floodlights, as well as the Medusa LED streetlight and Altos emergency lighting system. Installed throughout the site’s warehouse, the Pegasus is encased in a robust yet lightweight aluminium body and uses an Osram driver and Osram LEDs, giving 166 lumens per watt and up to 80% energy saving in installations. For the Crick site’s mezzanine area, the Sapphire luminaire was chosen. Manufactured by Ecolighting in the UK, Sapphire features high output chip-on-board LEDs and Osram drivers encased in a linear body with a polycarbonate diffuser - all rated IP54. Fitted outside, the Medusa LED is ideal for use in streets, security, car parks and building exteriors and allows users to benefit from cost savings and a substantial drop in energy use. By using top quality LEDs in Medusa, Ecolighting ensures high thermal conductivity, minimal light decay, pure light, very stable performance and a 50,000 hour lifespan. Ecolighting, ecolightinguk.com

SOPHISTICATED LIGHTING UPGRADE FOR BRACKEN HOUSE Zumtobel Lighting has successfully adhered to a complicated brief to supply luminaires in keeping with the interior of Grade II* listed Bracken House in the City of London. John Robertson Architects (JRA) worked with Zumtobel to improve the office lighting in the refurbishment of the building. Bracken House is now a contemporary workplace with an enhanced street presence, business lounge, state-of-the-art office floors, and a spacious roof terrace. The previous architectural interventions have been unified, and by working with heritage consultants, the team were able to provide thoughtful additions which built upon earlier works, creating internal courtyards linking the main building and wings, and increasing natural daylight throughout the atrium. The offices have been completely modernised to create 200,000 square foot of Grade-A office accommodation with LED lighting from Zumtobel. A custom office lighting system was developed, with Zumtobel using the ‘Slotlight Infinity’ seamless linear LED fittings, together with modular suspended metal ceilings arranged in a grid that aligns with the building’s exposed structure. With its linear design and high precision illumination, Slotlight Infinity provides an elegant and architecturally sophisticated solution, providing a continuous vein of light with no shadows that complements the unique design of the spaces. The lighting arrangement accentuates the structural arrangement of the central office floorplates seen from street level. In the historic wings, CAELA, a modern version of the original bespoke circular light fittings, illuminates all office floors to maintain the original aesthetic in these areas. Meanwhile, PANOS Infinity luminaires blend into the architecture, providing a light approaching natural daylight, with pleasant colour temperatures and the option to adjust to an individual’s preference. Zumtobel, zumtobel.com

November 2019 | 15

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TRAINING LCL AWARDS HELPS PLUG EV DEMAND In response to a growing demand for electric vehicles, LCL Awards has developed a new EV charging qualification titled ‘Level 3 Award in the Installation and Commissioning of Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment in Domestic, Commercial and Industrial locations’. The course has been introduced to help electricians take advantage of a marketplace that has grown significantly over recent years. The government is aiming for at least 50% of new car sales to be ultra-low emission by the year 2030, with £400 million invested to accelerate the roll-out of charging infrastructure, creating many more jobs for suitably trained installers. Other factors driving demand include the Government’s recently published consultation document that proposes a change to building regulations that would see EV charging points mandatory on all new domestic and non-domestic buildings, and all existing non-residential buildings. There’s clearly an urgent need for electrical engineers with the skills to fit the EV charging network. The Level 3 Award in the Installation and Commissioning of Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment in Domestic, Commercial and Industrial Locations is aimed at practising electricians, electrical technicians and engineers with experience in electrical installations and associated testing. The qualification covers the installation of dedicated charging equipment for electric and plug-in hybrid road vehicles (PHEV), and extended range electric vehicles (E-REV). Both AC and DC charging equipment

is included, complying with BS EN 61851 and “The Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installations”.

LCL Awards’ new EV charging qualification is available from its approved centres throughout the UK. LCL Awards, lclawards.co.uk

SPARKS APPRENTICE COMPETITION RETURNS Sparks Magazine is on the lookout for the UK’s best electrical apprentice. The Sparks Apprentice of the Year competition returns in 2020, giving electrical students and apprentices the chance to show off their skills and win prizes. Now in its eleventh year, the event is a fantastic opportunity for trainee electricians to kick-start their career, experience the thrill of a live competition and make new connections along the way. Regional heats take place between January and April at colleges in eight regions across the UK. The winner of each heat will go on to compete at the grand final, which will take place in April at Schneider Electric’s innovation hub in Coventry. Level two and three students (level six and seven in Scotland) are invited to enter the competition, during which they will be judged on a number of practical tasks by a panel of industry experts. As well as the prestige that comes with winning a national competition, there are prizes worth up to £10,000 up for grabs from sponsors Schneider Electric, Electric Center, Wago, Connexbox, the IET and DeWalt. The popular Meet the Lecturer/Manufacturer series also returns in January. Running alongside the Apprentice of the Year competition, it gives manufacturers the chance to showcase their products and update lecturers on the latest developments in the industry. Sean Miller, Electrician Channel Manager at Schneider Electric, the Apprentice of the Year competition’s Platinum sponsor, comments, “We are proud to be helping the electricians of tomorrow as they start out on their journey. It’s always great to see the apprentices working with our products throughout the regional heats and the final, as the standard of work is very high.” Sparks Magazine, sparks-magazine.co.uk

FURTHER COURSES FOR BUDDING ENGINEERS A training course giving talented learners a leg-up into a career in engineering construction continues to go from strength to strength. The ECITB’s Introduction to Engineering Construction Course (ITEC) is a 10-month programme preparing learners for apprenticeships and other roles in the industry. This year’s ITEC graduates have been snapped up by major engineering construction industry employers, including Cavendish, Doosan Babcock and Sellafield. Funded by the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) and delivered by 11 colleges and training providers across England, the ITEC equips young people with the skills, qualifications and behaviours to prepare them for employment. Launched in 2016 to offset the drop in apprenticeships offered across the industry, the ITEC offers most of the year one components of a formal apprenticeship. Learners gain a nationally recognised engineering knowledge qualification, 25 weeks of practical skills training, and the industry standard CCNSG Safety Passport.

JTL ACQUIRES DEVELOP TRAINING JTL, the training provider for electrical apprenticeships, has acquired Develop Training. Established for 50 years, Develop Training provides professional short courses, specialising in utilities and energy, construction, defence, healthcare, facilities management and telecommunications and has seven dedicated training centres across the UK. The acquisition will allow the organisations to better serve the sector, giving an opportunity for both to expand their offering and extend their national coverage. The acquisition will help JTL better serve the sector by expanding its short course provision beyond apprenticeships, whilst Develop Training can grow its current apprenticeship programmes through JTL’s support. Both organisations will continue to operate under their current trading name, with business as usual. JTL, jtltraining.com

ECITB, ecitb.org.uk

16 | November 2019

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25/09/2019 10:06:36

KEY ISSUE

RCDS — TAKE A SAFETY-FIRST APPROACH Bureau Veritas is warning that a rising number of AC type RCDs are being adversely affected by direct currents (DC) from electronic devices and renewable energy sources.

ith the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations including updated guidance on the use of various types of residual current devices (RCDs), Bureau Veritas is warning that a rising number of AC type RCDs are being adversely affected by direct currents (DC) from electronic devices and renewable energy sources. It comes amid the growing use of RCDs over the years, with AC type RCDs often promoted as the first choice, particularly since 2001 where the 17th Edition (amendment one) directly stated that AC type RCDs should be used for sockets that might supply outdoor equipment. However, according to electrical safety expert, Bureau Veritas, as more and more homes, commercial and industrial sites are now using electronic equipment and installing renewables such as solar PV, many of these RCDs may well not be fit for purpose – putting an increasing number of people at risk.

Leakage from poor quality equipment Michael Kenyon, Technical Manager at Bureau Veritas, explains, “Modern electrical installations are now, more than ever, incorporating technologies and products that manipulate the current wave forms. These devices, such as Solar PV and electric vehicle chargers, could be leaking (direct current) back into the electrical system and saturating the iron core of the AC type RCDs, which are not designed to handle it. “This is a particular problem when dealing with poor quality electronic equipment or substandard installations, as DC leakage current can be created by faulty equipment such as solar PV, EV chargers, variable speed drives, and even faulty mobile phone chargers or USB sockets. Inevitably, we’re seeing RCDs being increasingly affected by DC – putting many people at risk.”

According to Bureau Veritas, many RCDs are not fit for purpose and are putting people at risk

“Currently, there’s a knowledge gap within the electrical industry about the risks of using AC type RCDs in modern installations.”

As an independent electrical specialist, Bureau Veritas suggests the industry, instead, looks at using A or B type RCDs that are specifically designed to offer protection against alternating and pulsating direct current – as stated in the recent rewrite of 531.3 of BS7671.

Increasing awareness of RCDs Kenyon continues, “The rewrite of 531.3 has certainly led to an increased awareness of the different type of RCDs on the market. But in terms of promoting best practice, at the moment, it just doesn’t go far enough in recommending the use of A type RCDs. In fact, regulation (531.3.3) still states that for general purposes, type AC RCDs should be used, coupled with a disincentive that type A RCDs are still much less readily available. Kenyon explains, “From our experience, we’d recommend A type RCDs for general use; although going forward, this will need

to be supported by regulation, the industry and even manufacturers, as nine out of 10 devices found online were still AC type and the A type devices remain significantly more expensive. “Specifying the correct RCDs can be a technical and complicated area, and currently there’s a knowledge gap within the electrical industry about the risks of using AC type RCDs in modern installations. That’s why it’s important, now more than ever, to ensure every electrical installation is safe and fit for use – and the best way to do this is through regular testing and inspection.” Bureau Veritas offers a range of testing and certification services to support customers in managing compliance around electrical safety in general, for new and existing installations, or for specific areas, such as electric vehicle charging points. Bureau Veritas, bureauveritas.co.uk

18 | November 2019

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PROJECT FOCUS

LIGHTING UP THE LAVATORIES When Cae Glas Park in Shropshire required a lighting overhaul for its public toilets, it was introduced to low energy lighting solutions from Megaman. This month’s project focus looks at how the project unfolded.

egaman has had a number of its lighting solutions installed at Cae Glas Park’s public toilets as part of an important refurbishment project in Oswestry, Shropshire. After years without being renovated, the old toilet block had started to look dated and was showing signs of wear and tear. Oswestry Town Council approached its electrical contractor partner, Highline Electrical, for a solution. Following a meeting with its merchant partner, the contractor was recommended Megaman’s low-energy lighting solutions. After being impressed with the company’s technologies, the contractor met with Megaman’s Project and Specification BDM, Lloyd Robson, to discuss the refurbishment plan. During the meeting, Megaman’s team drew up a design to replace the lighting units in the toilet. The new lighting solution emitted the appropriate lux levels, but also helped to significantly reduce energy consumption. What’s more, the new system was designed to run off a dedicated solar panel, which was installed at the top of the structure. After agreeing on the plan, Highline Electrical met with the council, who signed off Megaman’s lighting design. The council were impressed with the planned refurbishment and gave the contractors the green light to begin work. In total, the team fitted over 20 new Megaman lighting units.

Making use of Rico and Fonda LEDs The public toilets at Cae Glas Park in Shropshire

Included in this installation were Megaman’s Rico LED Downlights, as well as its Fonda Integrated LED Bulkhead. Both ranges have been designed, tested and produced to comply with the necessary environmental legislation and industry codes of practice.

Over 20 new Megaman lighting units were fitted in the toilets

“For companies and councils alike, there has never been a better time to make the move away from fluorescent lights to LED units.”

The Rico LED downlight is an ultraslim LED light, which is ideal for any ceiling recess with a limited depth. The unit operates with industry standard constant current, making it compatible with a wide range of drivers on the market. Similarly, the Fonda Bulkhead is suited for use in common spaces as it features corrosion-free, tough polycarbonate vandal resistant paint. The unit meets IP66 and IK10 requirements, making it an effective and efficient LED replacement for conventional outdoor CFL luminaires. Commenting on the project, Andy Vaughan, Director of Highline Electrical, comments, “We were delighted to be part of the Cae Glas Park project. The toilet block has now been completely redesigned and fitted with new lighting units. The space looks a lot better than it did before and is running off far less electricity. Thanks to Megaman’s low-energy lighting solutions, the toilets are operating more efficiently, which is helping to reduce the council’s energy bill.”

Cutting the carbon footprint The ease of installation of Megaman’s products facilitated a quick turnaround for the development team. The project, which broke ground in February 2019, was completed in March, just one month after the units were installed. Crucially, the redevelopment was finished just in time for summer and the park’s busy schedule of live music, fun days, sponsored walks, bowling, tennis competitions and band concerts. Speaking on the refurbishment, Lloyd Robson, Project and Specification Business Development Manager at Megaman, comments, “This was a great project to be involved with. For companies and councils alike, there has never been a better time to make the move away from fluorescent lights to LED units. There are a number of tax offsets on offer to those moving to more low energy lighting solutions. It’s great to see Oswestry Town Council join the movement and make real efforts to cut its carbon footprint.” Megaman, megamanuk.com

20 | November 2019

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IN THE KNOW

SPONSORED FEATURE

DUAL SAFETY WITH FLEXIBILITY AND COST-SAVINGS IN MIND A new, innovative fire alarm control panel from Firesafe is reducing both labour and maintenance costs to the end-user. Supplied with two-wire and four-wire options, the panels are one of the safest and most effective options available today.

ormed in 1994, Firesafe – headquartered in Blackpool – remains at the forefront of the UK’s fire safety equipment industry and possesses a wealth of experience in providing fire safety solutions. With a highly trained and knowledgeable technical support team, which works closely with its nationwide sales team, Firesafe can also offer contractors, installers and specifiers individually tailored training days.

A dualguard upgrade to cut costs

The FSDG2-4 model of the dualguard+

Building on its reputation for leading-class fire safety products, Firesafe has now upgraded its range of dualguard+ fire panels to further cut labour costs to the end user. The dualguard+ fire panel has been specially designed to minimise labour costs, yet there is still ample room for wiring, changing batteries and clear

indication. Activation is via a key switch or access code, which means you should always be able to work on the panel. The ‘one man walk’ tests will help reduce the cost of maintenance. Meanwhile, the colour coded buttons and the three-step silence functionality provide simplicity, giving those with a nontechnical background the confidence to correctly manage their fire alarm system. dualguard+ panels are one of the few fire panels on the market that will reduce false alarms and can be programmed to require a secondary confirmation before sending the panel into alarm. 2, 4, 8 and 12 fire zone circuits are provided, along with two monitored sounder circuits. Fire and fault relays, fire and fault switched negative outputs, class change and an alert input are also included. The fire zone outputs can be set as ‘twin wire’ by DIL switch selection. dualguard+ panels are LPCB approved to European standards EN54-2 and 4, fire detection and alarm systems – control and indicating equipment. The in-built flexibility, connectivity and programming features of Firesafe’s control equipment means the company can provide conventional fire alarm systems with many of the features and benefits usually associated with much more expensive analogue addressable systems. As well as the standard point detectors, Firesafe can also provide many other specialist detection solutions, all of which are capable of being connected directly to the zone of a dualguard+ control panel. These include beam smoke detectors, flame detection, linear heat detection, wireless detection solutions and intrinsically safe, hazardous area detectors.

Firesafe has now upgraded its range of dualguard+ fire panels to further cut labour costs to the end user. Shown here is the FSDG8-12

Networking is available across both the FSDG8 8 zone and FSDG12 12 zone control panels to provide up to 256 zones. Pictured is the FSDGLCD repeater model

A fully functional remote display unit In addition to the eight control panels, up to eight repeater panels or remote display units can also be added to the network. The dualguard+ Remote Display Unit is a neat, fully functional or passive repeater panel with a four x 40-character backlit LCD display. It can be used to display all fires and faults across an entire network of control panels and have silence/reset, disablement and test mode controls. A 40-character description of each network zone can even be programmed and displayed – just like an addressable system. Firesafe, firesafe.co.uk

Networking dualguard+ Networking is available across both the FSDG8 8 zone and FSDG12 12 zone control panels to provide up to 256 zones. With the simple addition of a standard communications card, up to eight control panels can be networked in a daisy chain loop using RS485 communications. The network is ‘fail safe’, as a single open or short circuit in a network link will not stop the communications. Any combination of panel size can be used, from 2 to 32 zones, and in any order.

34 | November 2019

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31/10/2019 11:23

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12/09/2019 13:25:35

SPECIAL FEATURE

FIRE, SAFETY & SECURITY

FIRE ALARMS BRING NEW HOSPITAL TO LIFE An in-depth look at how Static Systems designed, supplied and installed a complex site-wide fire alarm and management system at the new Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridgeshire.

During the design process, for example, frequent project meetings were held on site where representatives of the suppliers came together with Skanska’s construction team and Troup Bywaters + Anders to discuss design issues and integration requirements. Smith explains the benefit of this approach: “Early engagement made a huge difference to the progress of the project. Our early engagement throughout the preconstruction phase meant we could provide detailed advice on our system, rather than a generic product being built into the scheme at a very early stage. This meant that by the time construction started, we already had a robust design.”

tatic Systems Group was recently appointed to design, supply and install the fire alarm and management system at the new Royal Papworth Hospital, a state-ofthe-art specialist heart and lung hospital situated adjacent to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridgeshire. The new system encompasses 15 networked fire alarm panels and in excess of 4,000 addressable devices, including 1,900 detectors. The system was overseen by Skanska’s appointed building services engineers, Troup Bywaters + Anders, who also set the outline brief. The new hospital features:

Patients, staff and visitors are now protected by a reliable and highly sophisticated system that will have a significant lifespan

•F ive operating theatres, five catheter laboratories and two hybrid theatres •1 4 isolation rooms •A pproximately 300 single beds, plus a 46-bed critical care unit and 24 day beds – most of which are individual, en-suite rooms •A centrally located outpatients unit, offering a wide range of diagnostic and treatment facilities •A n atrium on the ground floor with a restaurant, coffee shop and convenience store

Evacuation planning Design challenges One of the biggest challenges Static Systems had to address during the design process was the significant requirement for the site-wide fire alarm system to interface with different systems – including fire dampers, air handling plant, and smoke extraction – in order to provide a completely integrated system that manages the air flow and smoke extraction to safely direct smoke throughout the building. In addition, the system also interfaces with security, nurse call and sprinkler systems. Chris Smith, Head of Project Delivery at Static Systems, explains, “With different systems and equipment being installed simultaneously, there was a significant amount of co-ordination required to ensure they would interface together. We also needed to understand where they were being installed and how they were being fitted to ensure there were no physical clashes of equipment and materials.” When working on a new build project of this scale, early engagement and close collaboration with all parties involved in the design and supply of the fire engineering systems are essential to its success. In the case of the new Royal Papworth Hospital, those suppliers responsible for the fire alarm, building management systems, damper and duct work worked closely together from the outset.

Static Systems Group was appointed to design, supply and install the fire alarm and management system at the new Royal Papworth Hospital

Evacuation planning was also a key consideration when designing the fire engineering system for the new hospital. In the event of a fire, hospitals typically have a phased evacuation process, whereby a fire in a zone would result in the affected zone being evacuated and adjacent areas being given an alert. However, at the Royal Papworth Hospital, the Trust wanted to create a bespoke operation when it came to the ward areas. As each ward area went across more than one of the fire zones for the building, the Trust wanted an evacuation process based on the ward areas rather than on the fire zones. Static Systems was able to design the system to meet this requirement. Following the installation of the fire engineering system at the hospital, there was a considerable period of testing to ensure that all the systems met the rigorous criteria of Skanska and its client, Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. The whole installation and testing period went very well, and the hospital’s patients, staff and visitors are now protected by a reliable and highly sophisticated system that will have a significant lifespan. Static Systems will continue to be actively involved in the site, providing ongoing system maintenance in partnership with the hospital’s facilities management company. Static Systems, staticsystems.co.uk

36 | November 2019

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SPECIAL FEATURE

FIRE, SAFETY & SECURITY

RESPOND IN A FLASH Reece Safety, a leading supplier of life critical safety products, looks at the correct way to respond in an arc flash emergency.

n arc flash occurs when a burst of light and heat is created from an arc fault. Arc flashes, sometimes called a ‘flashover’ or ‘electrical arcing’, are often caused by sparks, equipment failure, dust, corrosion or improper installation. This can then create an electrical explosion, which in turn may cause serious harm to those within proximity of the incident should the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) not be worn. Arc flash hazards are occurring more often due to the high demand for power and electricity. Occupational health experts have found that higher system voltages and available fault currents are being utilised due to this increase in energy demand, which in turn creates a greater risk for an arc flash event. The temperature of an arc flash can reach 35,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which can be instantly life threatening and cause severe burns. Due to this, it is increasingly important to know how to respond in an arc flash emergency should one occur. Ensure that these steps are followed to avoid injury to yourself and in order to effectively help others: •D o not touch the person being harmed by the arc flash and identify the hazard causing the flashover. •S hut off the power to the electrical unit using the emergency ‘off’ button, if this can be done safely. •O nce there is no longer electricity being emitted from the hazard and it is safe to approach, safely rescue the person with an electrical safety hook. •W hen the victim is safely removed from the arc flash area, call 999 if other people are not present to do so immediately.

• If necessary, start CPR on the victim and apply automated external defibrillators (AED) as soon as possible. • Barricade and control access to the hazardous area to keep others at a safe distance until the hazard is removed or repaired.

“In an electrical emergency, people are often inclined to rush to the aid of the victim, which can cause life threatening harm to themselves as well as the victim.”

In an electrical emergency, people are often inclined to rush to the aid of the victim, which can, in turn, cause life threatening harm to themselves as well as the victim, by spreading the electrical current. It is better for the health and safety of others to wait and confirm that the electricity has been cut off to ensure there is no further risk of additional injuries. When the electricity is cut, electrical safety hooks – sometimes called rescue safety hooks – are to be used. They are an essential electrical safety item that is used to retrieve victims of electric shock, whilst protecting the rescuer from electric shock themselves. They are made from non-conductive materials that allow the safe removal of an arc flash victim without electrical current being passed onto the rescuer. They are commonly found in vehicle maintenance shops and electrical substations and should be kept anywhere where there is any exposure to electric works and live wires. Rescue safety hooks are constructed from polyester or a glass fibre foam filled tube and are insulated up to 225kV. They aim to stop electric currents from passing through to the rescuer when retrieving an injured person while an electric current is still in their body immediately after an electric shock. Their ‘S’ shape makes it easier for the rescuer to grip the victim’s arm, leg or waist for a secure hold and quick retrieval.

When assisting in an arc flash emergency, as well as when generally working with electrical equipment, it’s essential for all persons to be properly protected from the emitted heat and other potential hazards. Serious injury, such as deep burns that are slow to heal, caused by an arc flash event, can be prevented by wearing the correct personal protective equipment (PPE). Arc clothing is made from flame resistant material such as cotton and nylon, and sometimes synthetic modacrylics; however, the cotton and nylon blend of clothing is more lightweight, making it more comfortable to wear whilst being more breathable and providing better insulation. Arc flash clothing from Reece Safety can greatly reduce the risk of burns and shocks in the event of an arc flash. To ensure safety at work, always follow your workplace health and safety and risk assessment guidelines. Keeping machinery in good working order will go a long way towards keeping a facility safe from electrical hazards. It is important that machines are regularly inspected, cleaned and tested to greatly reduce the occurrence of arc flashes. Each member of staff working with and around electrical equipment should be trained in accordance to their job requirements, so that they have sound knowledge of arc flashes, electrical equipment and electrical faults. This includes general maintenance personnel. It is up to employers to always provide safety training to reduce arc flashes and other serious incidents within the workplace. Working with electrical equipment is dangerous, so make sure you keep all equipment and electrical units secure when you are leaving the area unattended. Reece Safety, reecesafety.co.uk

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COMMENT

FROM ZERO TO HERO In the first of a multi-part series, Phil Hansen of Connected Distribution provides details on how electrical contractors can get onto the custom installation ladder.

“T

here’s gold in them thar hills”, says Yosemite Sam in the Looney Tunes cartoons. But as we know, Yosemite’s gold prospecting is always thwarted by Bugs Bunny. Well there’s gold in custom installation, and this series of articles is hopefully going to help you mine it and find another lucrative revenue stream for your business – with no bunnies getting in the way! Custom installation has historically been an area inhabited by specialist companies, with specialist knowledge and perhaps a little bit of a protective attitude towards their craft and the market. It’s been the choice of the uber rich to have in their homes, and the installations have involved very expensive, time consuming and complicated efforts. But that is all changing and now it’s becoming mainstream. Isn’t it time you had a slice of the pie?

Whole house entertainment With thanks to a very well-known consumer audio brand, whole house entertainment has now become something that many more people have heard of and want to experience. It’s possible to install a system yourself having purchased it from a high street electrical shop and, with a little knowledge of networks, to be up and running in a very short time frame. And this is great for helping get the word out there that multi-room exists, but there’s so much more to it than a simple DIY system – and this is where you come in. In this series, we’re going to look at the requirements for getting you up and running as a custom installer. We’ll talk about networks; cables versus Wi-Fi; audio quality; video quality; video distribution; amplifiers; speakers; digital streaming; best practice; how to quote; how to design; how to demonstrate; how to market yourself, and how to make ongoing revenue from your installations.

So, let’s start with the basics. What is multi-room? Look it up on Google and you’ll be faced with a series of articles talking about smart speakers and how they can be linked to provide music around the house. And while this is multi-room audio in its simplest form, it’s not what we mean by the term. To us, it’s all about discreet systems that enable any audio or video source to be played in any room without intrusive boxes, speakers and cables and to be controlled by a dedicated system that pulls all the elements together. For the end-user, it’s about simplicity of operation, but for us it’s about the flexibility of the offering to suit different people’s requirements. This customisation is what distinguishes our definition of multi-room from the simple high street solution, and it’s why the industry is called ‘custom installation’.

Electrical contractors already have the skillset As an electrical contractor, you are perfectly placed to become a custom installer. You already have numerous skills that can be put to work to achieve this objective: you know how to route cables, you have the knowledge to wire things up, you are trusted by the customer as an expert in your field, you have the customer’s ear etc. Sure, there are new skills to learn and new technologies to get your head around, but there’s plenty of help

“As an electrical contractor, you are perfectly placed to become a custom installer. You know how to route cables, you have the knowledge to wire things up, and are trusted as an expert in your field.”

out there to get you up to speed. These articles over the next few months will help, and the distributors of custom installation equipment all run training courses. Cedia, the trade body for the industry, also has some excellent courses. Why should you do it though? Especially if there are enough jobs on your books as an electrical contractor to keep you busy all week and all year. The answer is pretty simple really: if you don’t do it, it someone else will. There’s going to be plenty of demand out there for distributed audio and video as it becomes even more widely known about as an option for homeowners. And there’s great profit to be made from custom installation – the margins are very healthy and it’s a sector in which you make both a good mark up on the actual products (many of which have to be supplied by you as they are not available through retail or online) and on your time designing and installing the project. What’s not to like? Next month, we’ll be looking at the building blocks of an installation. Phil Hansen is Marketing Director and Co-Owner of Connected Distribution, distributors of technology solutions for the custom installation sector. He is also owner of Red Sheep Communications, a marketing and PR business focused on the custom install and Hi-Fi sectors. Connected Distribution, connecteddistribution.com

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18th Edition Solutions CIRCUIT PROTECTION TEL: 01563 533 554 SALES@CPELECTRIC.CO.UK

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www.cpelectric.co.uk

30/10/2019 10:47

COMPETITION

WIN A £250 AMAZON VOUCHER

Courtesy of

PLUS A DONATION TO THE

or this month’s competition, Hylec-APL is offering one lucky winner a £250 Amazon voucher, along with a donation of £250 to the Electrical Industries Charity in the winner’s name. For the past 100 years, the Electrical Industries Charity has supported industry employees and their families in times of need, assisted industry pensioners in straightened circumstances, and run an apprentice support programme too. Debox SL2 is the smallest junction box with five poles on the market, and the only product supplied complete with five screw-free connectors.

Debox SL2 – for fast and tool-free installation Debox SL was the first completely tool-free, four-pole inline connection box available in the UK, and it has sold close to three million units since its launch in 2016. Now, the Debox SL has been joined by a brand new, maintenance-free five-pole model – Debox SL2. Debox SL2 is the smallest junction box with five poles on the market, and the only product supplied complete with five screw-free connectors. Suitable for joining either flat or round profile cables with a minimum conductor size of 0.5mm and a maximum of 2.5mm, each individual 32A lever connector can take up to three conductors. Debox SL2 saves valuable time and makes installation easier for smaller and larger internal wiring jobs, as everything needed is supplied with the box and there is no need to use a screwdriver to securely join wires. Debox SL2 ends the frustration of dropping tiny screws on the floor, which then have to be retrieved, or not having required components on hand.

Safety is always paramount for electrical components, and the Debox range, including the new Debox SL2, is flame retardant to UL940V 0, conforms to the EN60598-1 (13.2.2) glow wire test, and the BSEN6067022 maintenance free standard. Sign up for Hylec’s newsletter this month at www.hylec-apl.com to receive a free Debox SL sample.

For your chance to win, simply answer the following questions correctly: 1. How many screw-free terminals does Debox SL2 have? a) 2 b) 3 c) 5

2. W hat is the maximum number of conductors Debox SL2 can take?

3. To close the Debox SL2, you need to supply…? a) A screwdriver b) A cable tie c) A butterfly clip d) Nothing

a) 3 b) 5 c) 15

September Competition The winner of the electric skateboard, courtesy of Hamilton Litestat, is Simon Thompson of Eccentricity Ltd.

Closing date All entries must be returned by November 30, 2019. The editor’s decision is final. For the full terms and conditions, please visit electricalcontractingnews.com/ competition-terms. The name of the winner will be published in the January 2020 issue of ECN. *Prize not exchangeable.

To enter, please complete the form below and fax to 01634 673173, or post to: ECN Competition, All Things Media Ltd, Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent, ME5 8UD. Alternatively, you can email your answers and contact details to: carol@allthingsmedialtd.com.

The answers to November’s competition are:

Contact Preferences YES, I would like to receive the ECN newsletter YES, I would like to subscribe to ECN magazine

1.............................................................................

YES, I would like to share my data with Hylec

Personal Details Name....................................................................................................................................... Company Name...................................................................................................................... Address...................................................................................................................................

2. . .........................................................................

Signature.......................................................................

................................................................................ Postcode................................................. Tel................................................................ Mobile ................................................................

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Date.............................................................................. E-mail.....................................................................................................................................

To register to receive your copy of ECN each month, visit electricalcontractingnews.com/subscribe Competition.indd 42

31/10/2019 11:26

SPECIAL FEATURE

WIRING ACCESSORIES supported by

DISCOVER THE RANGE GUARANTEED TO ENHANCE YOUR REPUTATION

The new Enhance Range from Eurolite

High in quality, low in price, 25 year guarantee eurolite.co.uk | 01772 672 020

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SPECIAL FEATURE

WIRING ACCESSORIES

EUROLITE’S CUSTOMER FOCUS INSPIRES NEW PRODUCTS Eurolite is celebrating a year of significant growth and expansion, with the development of its highly popular Enhance range as the primary focus.

urolite, the decorative wiring accessories developer and distributor, is fully in tune with its customers’ needs and has focused on launching a complete range of decorative wiring accessories. The Enhance brand has proven popular because the products are of a high quality, whilst remaining good value.

The Enhance Range The Enhance Range is a comprehensive collection of decorative wiring accessories that customers can trust, as Eurolite has not compromised on the technical specification or quality. The commercial projects market is going strong, and so the Enhance Range really

supports this, while also proving a desirable product for homeowners. High in quality and low in price, Eurolite’s Enhance range is flexible and was designed with everyone in mind. For the homeowner, it gives a stylish upmarket look; and for the installer, it comes with a full selection of grid and modular options for simple and easy installation. The Enhance Collection comprises the Enhance Decorative, Enhance Flat Plate and now the Enhance White plastic range. The Enhance Decorative is the classic collection, which is a range of affordable and stylish wiring accessories, and the flat plate range is a modern, 2mm thick range. Both are available in three finishes: polished chrome, black nickel and satin stainless steel.

White plastic driven by consumer demand The latest line added to the brand is the new Enhance White plastic range. This collection of white plastic wiring accessories is a direct response to the demand in the market. Not claiming to be a revolutionary new product to the market, Eurolite felt it was important that its customers are able to order everything they need from one place, and that includes white plastic, a popular and staple product in the market. Carl Robinson, Managing Director at Eurolite, says, “The white plastic wiring accessories complement our wide range of decorative sockets and switches perfectly. Our Enhance Range has proven to be popular, so this functional and in demand product is the perfect addition. “We listened to our customers and we can now offer them most styles of wiring accessories, so they can order everything they need in one place.”

VISUALLY ENHANCED

Learning from sector surveys Eurolite was established in 1998 and has gone from strength to strength due to its unusually high level of customer service, as well as its extensive product range. By building up a trusted and professional name over 21 years, Eurolite has learned to understand its customers and their needs, building strong and loyal relationships with wholesalers and contractors. Robinson says, “The 2019 EDA Sector Survey results showed that contractors value quality and known, trusted brands over the lowest price point. So whilst it remains incredibly important to be competitive in the industry, cheaper doesn’t mean it’s more appealing to your customers. The Enhance ranges meet this need with high quality, reliable products from a trusted and long established manufacturer at competitive prices.

The new Enhance Decorative Range from Eurolite

High in quality, low in price, 25 year guarantee

eurolite.co.uk | 01772 672 020

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WIRING ACCESSORIES

SPECIAL FEATURE

A customer-centric approach

“The Sector Survey also showed that contractors value support from a manufacturer’s website, helpdesk and wholesalers trade counter staff the most. We were pleased by these results, as we have always strived to make sure our customer support service is one of the best in the industry. Not only do we have over 20 years’ experience, but we strive to be ranked number one in the trade. We do that by offering full support to our customers, whether that’s in the form of phone support, training to wholesalers, or providing marketing materials they may need. Whatever we can do to make our customers’ jobs easier, we accommodate and deliver.” The 2019 survey also showed that the biggest concern for contractors was availability, quality and price. These three key focuses for Eurolite are delivered by a strong supply chain team and extensive inventory that enables orders to be despatched right first time, every time.

The decorative wiring accessories supplier puts customers first by offering quality products which fulfil a range of needs. Eurolite offers a comprehensive range of decorative accessories and only supplies fully certified products which comply to British Standards. The business has over 5,000 products in stock, meaning it can offer next day delivery as standard; and it has an in-house assembly team to meet the bespoke requirements of contractors, wholesalers and homeowners. Robinson adds, “We know that contractors want to buy brands they recognise. However, wholesalers have confirmed that they do need to be at the right price. They are looking for the full package; a good price point from well recognised brands, which Eurolite has considered with the development of the Enhance ranges. “Another key concern for contractors is quality and reliability. They want minimal call backs and ease of fitting to reduce site time. They rely on the insight and expertise from the manufacturer or wholesaler so that they can be efficient on jobs. Our Far East team ensures our suppliers maintain high production standards to ensure consistent quality whilst the design ensures ease of fitting. “Wholesalers are more concerned with minimising stock and cash investment whilst maintaining availability. This is something we can support because we stock thousands of products and offer next day delivery as standard. They are also concerned with digitalisation and online selling, which is a huge priority for us, and we have some 2020 initiatives which will focus around digitisation and electronic data management to help support their needs.”

Wiring accessories for all requirements

“The EDA Sector Survey 2019 results showed that contractors value quality and known, trusted brands over the lowest price point.”

Eurolite has a large suite of decorative wiring accessories for commercial, outdoor, residential, modern and contemporary, antique styles and much more. Eurolite’s mission is to offer its customers the best quality and service available. It strives every day to meet its customer requirements, so that they in turn can meet deadlines and completion dates. Eurolite really goes above and beyond to support customers’ needs with a bespoke service which is second to none. With the capability to make special requirements on site, Eurolite’s team can often complete the project on the same day ready for next day delivery. Whether the order is for a one gang, or 24 gang grid, or any size in-between – or a one to four gang module plate – Eurolite will accommodate. Each bespoke product comes with a choice of plate finishes and the electrical component options are limitless, with multiple finishes available. This offering ensures that Eurolite is one of the best in the industry for putting the customer first. Eurolite is a part of the Arran Isle Group, an international building products group, so there is a high level of support in the background which allows the company to offer comprehensive solutions to its customers. For more information or to speak to the knowledgeable, friendly team, call 01772 672 020 or visit the company’s website. Eurolite, eurolite.co.uk

VALUE ENHANCED

The new Enhance White Plastic Range from Eurolite

High in quality, low in price, 25 year guarantee

eurolite.co.uk | 01772 672 020

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ELECTRICAL CONTACTING NEWS - FEB 2017 - 224 X 159.indd 1

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WIRING ACCESSORIES

SPECIAL FEATURE

To help achieve a premium finish, Volex Accessories has launched a new generation of products which combine the latest looks with value for money and the product features customers expect

OPT FOR QUALITY PRODUCTS WITH A PREMIUM FINISH Alex Jaundrill of Volex Accessories, one of the leading electrical brands from Electrium, discusses the importance of quality and aesthetics in choosing wiring accessories.

espite recent stories in the press about the slowdown of the housebuilding market, there remains signs of growth. According to recent numbers released by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Governments, annual new build dwelling starts totalled 160,640 in the year to June 30, 2019 – which is a 1% decrease on the previous year. However, during the same period, completions reached 173,660 in the year to June, which is actually an increase of 8% on the previous year. This could mean a greater number of second fix jobs going on.

VALUE ENHANCED

Assessing the average refurbishment costs But it’s not only the new build market where money is being spent. Analysis of a survey of more than 700 property investors, conducted for InterBay Commercial by research house Savanta, shows that landlords typically spend £12,000 per refurbishment. Spending for a heavy refurbishment stands at £40,000, on average, compared to £13,000 for a medium and £7,000 for a light refurbishment. A majority (70%) of landlords undertook renovation works to improve the property, whether to improve its presentation or the quality of the accommodation for their tenants.

Irrespective of whether it’s a new build, or a refurbishment, wiring accessories have a huge impact on the aesthetic of a room. Not only that, but the quality needs to be good enough to ensure that landlords and housebuilders aren’t having to find additional budget to replace which makes the job of choosing them all the more difficult.

Dependable and decorative wiring accessories There is a clear need for a dependable yet decorative range of wiring accessories. Offering a wide range with choices of decorative, metal plate, flat plate and white moulded wiring accessories suitable for any

The new Enhance White Plastic Range from Eurolite

High in quality, low in price, 25 year guarantee

eurolite.co.uk | 01772 672 020

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SPECIAL FEATURE

WIRING ACCESSORIES

Achieving the required standards

residential application, Volex Accessories offers the end user or specifier a premium finish to any property, making it a complete electrical installation solution for residential new build and refurbishment. Contractors should look for accessories that go above and beyond the standard to provide a quality product and premium finish. Volex Accessories has always been a name synonymous with reliability and value, committed to adding extra quality features and contemporary aesthetics to its designs. Acknowledged as one the leading brands in the UK and in British Standard markets around the world, it offers designers and specifiers a wide range of quality wiring accessories that caters for a vast array of residential applications and wherever quality products are required.

VISUALLY ENHANCED

“Contractors should look for accessories that go above and beyond the standard to provide a quality product and premium finish.”

Knowing that products hit all the required standards is obviously important. In the UK, Volex Accessories operates a UKAS accredited laboratory that carries out R&D and compliance testing on all its products. These highly accredited facilities ensure that safety, quality and reliability remain consistent with UK and EU legislation, regulations and Siemens internal standards (Volex Accessories, as part of Electrium, sits within the Siemens family) as well as applicable policies and practices. The products are all designed, manufactured and tested in accordance with the recognised product standards, and backed by standard and extended guarantees. RoHS and REACH compliant, the brand also factors in other recognised standards for product safety and sustainability.

Product lifecycle considerations With the current emphasis on the climate, considering the whole life of the product is also important. Volex Accessories, for example, follows a WEEE compliance system and recycling scheme to ensure that the end of product life circumstances are catered for, in line with UK and EU legislation. Additionally, recycled materials are being used in the product packaging, which are then declared into a recycling scheme locally to help lower the environmental impact.

Not all homes have the same aesthetic, so working with a brand with a range of styles means you can be assured of the quality while having access to different designs.

The contemporary Casa range The Casa range from Volex Accessories is the ideal solution for the modern domestic installation. The range offers a contemporary sleek aesthetic, concealed fixing screws and a compact concave rocker design synonymous with the new wave of wiring accessories. In line terminals on the sockets facilitate speed of installation. With a clip-in grid and data range and local product marking available, this range is perfect for any residential application. All products are designed, manufactured and tested to fully comply with the relevant product standards. This comprehensive range includes a wide range of lighting and power controls to suit any domestic and many light commercial installations. Available in polished steel, stainless steel and black nickel, the Metal Plate range allows specification of a premium co-ordinated and comprehensive range of wiring accessories. The range of products features double pole sockets and the unique labyrinth switch design, which minimises visible arc flash and prevents access to live parts. For more information about Volex Accessories and other Electrium brands, visit www.electrium.co.uk. Volex Accessories, electrium.co.uk

The new Enhance Decorative Range from Eurolite

High in quality, low in price, 25 year guarantee

eurolite.co.uk | 01772 672 020

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CUSTOMERS PREFER AN ENHANCED CONTRACTOR High in quality, low in price. Eurolite’s Enhance Range is designed with everyone in mind. For the homeowner it gives a stylish upmarket look and for the installer you get a full selection of grid and modular options for a simple and easy installation. Designed with great flexibility, the Enhance Range pleases everyone.

DESIGNED TO BE TECHNICALLY AND VISUALLY ENHANCED • FULL COMPREHENSIVE RANGE • CONFORMS TO BRITISH TESTING STANDARDS • MATCHING ROCKERS AS STANDARD • TRIM COLOUR OPTIONS • SATIN STAINLESS STEEL FINISHES • POLISHED CHROME FINISHES • BLACK NICKEL FINISHES • 25 YEAR GUARANTEE • CLIP IN GRID AND MODULAR AVAILABLE • GUARANTEED NEXT DAY DELIVERY AS STANDARD • TECHNICAL SUPPORT

The new Enhance Range from Eurolite

High in quality, low in price, 25 year guarantee

eurolite.co.uk | 01772 672 020 Untitled-1 1

01/11/2019 09:40

SPECIAL FEATURE

WIRING ACCESSORIES

‘A LA MODE’ WIRING ACCESSORIES With a myriad of styles and finishes available for wiring accessories, Marie Parry, Group Marketing Director at Scolmore Group, looks at what makes simple, white accessories the bread and butter for the electrical contractor.

here has never been a wider choice of styles and finishes in wiring accessories available, giving end users the opportunity to reflect the latest trends for interior design in the switches and sockets that they choose. One of Scolmore’s most significant new product developments in recent years saw the launch of a range of premium, decorative metal wiring accessories – Deco Plus. However, despite its success, for

VISUALLY ENHANCED

Scolmore it is the Click Mode range of white wiring accessories that remains the company’s best-selling wiring accessories collection to date. The Mode range was conceived and developed as a high quality, flexible and modern solution for virtually any domestic wiring requirement. The smooth, contemporary lines of the Mode accessory plate will fit easily into traditional and contemporary designs alike, and the modular design allows installers unprecedented flexibility in creating dedicated wiring solutions to deal with specific wiring needs.

No compromises required When selecting wiring accessories, installers have often had to compromise their schemes as they have been unable to identify a suitably flexible solution to satisfy their ideas. Mode accessories have been providing that flexibility, with a comprehensive selection of products; ranging from the humble light switch and socket outlet, through to more specialised products dealing with the very latest developments in telephone and satellite products. Scolmore has continued to invest in this range since it was originally launched,

The new Enhance Decorative Range from Eurolite

High in quality, low in price, 25 year guarantee

eurolite.co.uk | 01772 672 020

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WIRING ACCESSORIES

SPECIAL FEATURE

introducing products in visually contrasting versions to meet with Part M regulations. In 2016, the company added the Mode locating plug socket to the range. It was designed to assist people with impaired vision or poor hand to eye coordination to more easily insert a plug into a socket. The contoured shape of the front plate guides the earth pin into position, and it is this plug guide which gives the product a greater focus on usability and means its use can be extended to situations where a socket isn’t easily accessible. The locating plug socket is available in one and two-gang options, with the twogang version featuring outboard rockers to further assist with distinguishing between switches, making it less likely to switch the wrong one.

USB sockets pave the way forward Other innovations for the range include the addition of USB sockets – now available in one- and two-gang, and single and twin USB options. With the twin USB option, both USB charging ports are capable of delivering 5V 2.1A simultaneously. This allows for optimum charging of two devices at the same time, without fear of fluctuations in the power supply interfering with the charging process. Unlike some products on the market, the total power available is 4.2A, thus allowing both ports to deliver 2.1A at the same time – so you are guaranteed optimum charge every time, regardless of the devices being charged. In 2018, a three-pin safety shutter socket, which exceeds the required safety standards, was launched. It features a safety shutter that cannot be operated using only one terminal – it requires correct insertion of all three pins of a standard UK plug. The launch last year of an in-house laser etching service, adds another dimension to Scolmore’s Mode range. The module etching is done using a specially acquired laser printer, which produces a precise, permanent, fine marking effect and offers flexibility to suit large volume orders or for customised jobs. This inhouse facility allows Scolmore to offer a fully bespoke service to customers,

“In the most recent application, Mode was chosen by a candidate on Channel 4 television series, Grand Designs, to meet some very specific requirements.”

who can order customised laser etched modules to suit the range of projects they are working on. Fourteen of the most popular printed legends will be produced – including dishwasher, cooker hood, washing machine and fridge freezer. All of Scolmore’s white moulded and Mode Part M wiring accessories are manufactured using urea formaldehyde, which has similar inherent properties to antimicrobial additives that inhibit the growth of infectious diseases. All products independently tested achieved a 99.99% kill off rate across all four types of the strains of bacteria – MRSA, E-Coli, Salmonella and Klebsiella Pneumoniae. Products from the Mode range have been specified and installed across a huge range of applications including schools, hospitals, care homes, hotels, offices and leisure complexes.

An appearance on Grand Designs In the most recent application, Mode was chosen by a candidate on Channel 4 television series, Grand Designs, to meet some very specific requirements. Toby Leeming has been living with a suppressed immune system following a bone marrow transplant and life-saving treatment for Leukaemia. With the help of Grand Designs, he embarked on his long-held ambition to build his dream

VALUE ENHANCED

family home. This required some careful consideration, particularly when it came to choosing materials and fittings that wouldn’t compromise his health, and Scolmore’s Mode antimicrobial wiring accessories provided a fitting solution for the electrical installation for his ambitious build. The house was designed to incorporate features beneficial to Leeming’s ongoing well-being and health. With some 370 square metres of accommodation to contend with, a huge quantity of wiring accessories was needed for the electrical installation. After much research, Scolmore’s Mode wiring accessories were personally chosen by Leeming, specifically for their antimicrobial benefits, and switches and sockets have been installed throughout the six-bedroom, single-storey courtyard house. More than 80 x 13A sockets, 22 x 5A sockets, plus a quantity of one, two, three and four gang switches, dimmers, new media sockets, shaving sockets, oven switches and extractor fan overrides from the Mode range have been installed. Leeming comments, “I had been considering other options to work with the interior décor, such as copper accessories, but these proved to be very expensive. As well as meeting those vital health requirements, I really liked the minimalist and simple stylish look that Mode offered.” Scolmore, scolmore.com

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November 2019 | 51

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SPECIAL FEATURE

WIRING ACCESSORIES

DOES YOUR CONNECTOR COMPLY? Andy Hatter, CEO of Hylec-APL, a supplier of components to the electrical industry, looks at the importance of completing contracts in a timely fashion, and explains how the new Debox SL2 can assist with this.

ith everincreasing demands on contractors’ time, what do installation professionals need to be aware of with, for example, their choice of something as simple as an inline junction box? These days, a significant amount of an electrician’s time is spent on wiring lighting installations, a change from the (literally) darker days when houses had a single central pendant fitting in every room and maybe a fluorescent tube fitting in the kitchen. Today, even the average kitchen has 12 downlights. With the need to get through contracts in a timely fashion, it is easy to overlook how selecting something as simple as an inline junction box can influence whether a job complies with the 18th Edition or not, even without the installer necessarily being aware of it; and even with his or her best professional attention to the actual installation itself. This has to do with the design and materials of the junction box itself, plus the selection of other necessary components, such as connectors. Rushing into your wholesaler and buying the cheapest inline box available, or ordering from an unknown online supplier can both make the job more difficult and may unwittingly lead the bestintentioned to non-compliance. To avoid this, it’s worth asking a few questions at the point of purchase:

“Hylec gave a lot of thought to the timesaving design aspects of the SL2, which is why it is literally ready to wire up straight from the package.”

• I s the inline junction box supplied with everything needed to enable to install it to regulation standards? Is there an approved connector, for example? • I s the inline junction box approved by the appropriate UK/European bodies, i.e. does it conform to the EN60598-1 glow wire test? •C an the lid of the junction box be secured after wiring up in such a way that it can only be removed using a tool? The regulations state this is mandatory. • I s the material it is manufactured from flame-retardant? To UL940V-0? • I s the product designed with strain relief to prevent the cable being pulled loose and possibly causing a short? (Pull wire test EN60670-22). • Some products come with built-in connectors and strain relief, although the cover is not secured by way of only opening via a tool, as per the 18th Edition. It’s also worth noting that screw strain relief and screw down cover to comply with regulations takes significantly longer to install than a simple clip or ratchet. • I s it classified as maintenance-free (MF)? Some ‘maintenance-free’ inline junction boxes come without connectors and may thus, depending on the connectors used, not be MF. A maintenance-free connector should be screwless, at least; if not, it may not be MF. The other factor to consider with in-line junction boxes is ease of use. No-one pretends that wiring up a whole new housing development, for example, doesn’t involve a lot of repetitive tasks. Even the aforementioned average kitchen example with its 12 downlights can take longer than priced for, depending on unforeseen factors. This is where ease-of-use and ergonomic design in simple products really can save time and frustration. Again, these are a few things to consider: • Does the in-line junction box include connectors, or do these have to be bought separately? • Are any supplied connectors screwless, for easy and fast wiring up, for round or flat profile cable?

VISUALLY ENHANCED

• Are any items supplied with the junction box, i.e. screws for a non-screwless connector (if supplied) liable to fall out the second you open it? The likelihood of finding tiny screws in a loft or on the dusty floor of a new build site is small and/or time-consuming. • Size. Will it fit through the standard 50mm aperture for a downlight? • Does it come with mounting brackets, or are these something to be bought separately, at additional cost? The good news is that there are products from reputable manufacturers that do meet all of the above criteria to enable competent installers to complete a compliant installation when used correctly. An example is Debox SL2 from Hylec, which was introduced in July this year and is the smallest junction box with five poles on the market. Supplied complete with five screw free terminals, each individual 32A lever connector can take up to three flat or round profile conductors. After inserting cables and closing the levers, the lid of the box is snapped shut and secured with the butterfly clip supplied, and needs a tool to re-open it. Hylec gave a lot of thought to the timesaving design aspects of the SL2, which is why it is literally ready to wire up straight from the package with nothing else needed, saving time both at the purchasing stage (nothing else to worry about) and during installation (no extra parts to go down a ladder or to the van for). This is the case with the original Debox SL, the four-pole version which has sold millions of units. Safety is always paramount for electrical components, and the whole Debox range – including the new Debox SL2 – is flame retardant to UL940V 0 and conforms to the EN60598-1 (13.2.2) glow wire test, as well being maintenance free. The needs of the professional installer should be something manufacturers consider right from the concept stage of a new product, coupled with their own expertise and manufacturing knowledge to bring to market components that assist contractors to carry out safe and compliant work. Hylec-APL, hylec-apl.com

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52 | November 2019

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SPECIAL FEATURE

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

POWERING THE NEXT GENERATION The University of Edinburgh has increased protection and reduces its energy use thanks to energy efficiency solutions from Kohler Uninterruptable Power (KUP).

ince it opened its doors in 1583, The University of Edinburgh has been at the forefront of Scottish higher education. From Nobel laureates and Olympic champions to space explorers and prime ministers, its alumni continue to make history and play notable roles in the betterment of society. Supporting the varied needs of its students is fundamental to its mission and, as one of the UK’s leading researchintensive universities, regular investment is required to ensure its infrastructure is fit for purpose and futureproofed for the next generation of pioneers. With this in mind, when it came time for a comprehensive review and upgrade of the institution’s data centre technology and supporting power protection infrastructure, selecting a UPS partner able to offer the right level of efficiency, flexibility and resilience was an important element of the larger project.

Understanding the challenge The situation was a familiar one. The university had an aging UPS system that still met current power requirements; but was inefficient and didn’t offer the resilience and ease of maintenance that was critical for the university’s future plans. The existing power protection equipment had been in place for more than a decade, and its traditional standalone technology was power hungry and didn’t support the ability to perform essential maintenance without taking the system offline and exposing the critical load to the risk of a mains-borne disturbance. In the midst of the university’s IT and power protection review, which formed part of a larger efficiency drive across a large proportion of its real estate, the situation became more critical when the battery banks supporting the existing UPS burst, leading to a total loss of protection. Although protection was quickly restored, it was clear that a longterm solution was required without delay. Understandably, for an institution where thousands of students and

lecturers rely on the university’s network for all manner of essential functions, the implications of a loss of power could be catastrophic. Furthermore, its wasn’t just the main network that would be affected, everything from virtualisation technology to administration records would be impacted. Graeme Wood, the university’s Head of Enterprise Services, explains, “For any university, robust IT and networking infrastructure is integral to the smooth running of our campuses, and our students and faculty rightly expect access 24/7. Any delay or restrictions would cause no end of problems for all concerned. We have several networks across the city, but the one in question supports all our information services and is the central network for the main university facilities and science campus. “Following the incident with our power blocks, it was clear that the right solution was to design and install an entirely new system, taking a root-and-branch approach to guarantee the return on investment was maximised over the extended lifespan of

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SPECIAL FEATURE

ENERGY MANAGEMENT the system. We needed a UPS that provided us with the necessary level of protection, but of equal importance was its ability to grow in line with our needs and have the modularity to ensure the system could remain online 100% of the time. “At a university like ours, we are also working within the confines of the available space, utilising buildings that are, in many cases, hundreds of years old. That adds another dimension to the requirements and an additional layer of complexity to the design and installation of any new equipment.”

Finding the right solution As part of its renovations and upgrades, Graeme and his team set themselves the ambitious goal of removing all single points of failure and building a system that had comprehensive resilience, as he explains: “Our objective was to get as close as we could to building a 2N system, with redundancy built into every aspect of the infrastructure – with the exception of the things we couldn’t change, such as our single supply from the grid and our existing generators. We decided we wanted to commission two complete systems to replace the single UPS that was then in place, along with the switch gear and every inch of wiring. We wanted duel power supply all the way from the external source, connected to two fully independent UPS systems and feeding two power outlets per server rack in an A & B configuration. “This represented a massive shift in approach and a large increase in the amount of physical equipment we required, so with improving efficiency being another key tenet of the project, we needed a supplier that would work with our electrical contractor, Forth Electrical Services, and design a system capable of meeting all those requirements. “Collectively, my team and our contractor did our due diligence and went out and engaged with the marketplace. We looked at a number of UPS providers that focused on modular technology and could demonstrate the levels of efficiency we required. Another important selection criterion was the supplier’s ability to offer the right level of ongoing maintenance support, with guaranteed four-hour response times. “After reviewing a number of comparable systems and manufacturers, we decided that Kohler Uninterruptible Power (KUP) and its PowerWAVE 9000DPA represented the best fit for us. It scored well across the board, with a high-power density, no single points of failure, six nines availability and high efficiency credentials – and backed by a dedicated support team that is directly employed by KUP, not third-party contractors who work across multiple brands.” It was at this stage that KUP was contacted by Forth Electrical Services and brought in to help specify the system’s design. Howard Rein, Area Sales Engineer for KUP picks up the story: “Working together, the design for two identical systems was agreed, with each system consisting of two PowerWAVE 9000DPA frames, containing seven 50kVA modules working in parallel to provide 300kVA of protection, with the additional module providing N+1 redundancy. “The chosen product and approach offered the university the best fit for its requirements, with notably higher levels of

efficiency, despite the lower loading of each system due to the 300kVA critical load being shared across all four UPS frames. Equally, should the load increase, redundancy and resilience will not be affected, due to the PowerWAVE 9000DPA’s ‘hot-swap’ modularity and decentralised parallel architecture, which enables capacity to be added in cost-effective incremental steps if power requirements grow. Additionally, the ability to quickly add, remove or replace modules whilst the system is online significantly reduces mean time to repair (MTTR) and simplifies system power upgrades – both critical requirements for the project. “The UPS system we were replacing was running at 70% capacity and it wouldn’t have been possible to increase protection due to the product’s standalone nature and space constraints they were working under. The batteries the university had, and the age they were, also offered only 15 minutes of run time. With the new system, they have more than two hours and, based on their expected growth, it would be five years before they have to look at increasing the number of modules, and even then, it is such a simple process, what would have taken a lot of time and expense before, was now simply a matter of slotting

“In addition to the massive increase in capacity, protection and redundancy, total system efficiency has also increased.”

in additional module – a process that takes around 30 minutes.” With the system design agreed and specified, the next challenge to overcome was commissioning. Available space was very limited but with careful planning and the experience of the KUP install team, the process went off without a hitch”. Wood adds, “The commissioning of both UPS systems, along with all the related battery banks and switchgear, went seamlessly. The KUP engineers were honestly fantastic. Each complete system is located in a different area of the building, effectively creating two separate installs but everything happened in line with the agreed schedule, no delays, no challenges that the KUP team didn’t manage to overcome, and every step of the process was explained so we knew exactly what was happening at all times.”

Feeling the benefit The installation of the PowerWAVE 9000DPA systems and related equipment has already provided the university with significant resilience and financial benefits. In addition to the massive increase in capacity, protection and redundancy, total system efficiency has also increased, as Wood concludes: “By realising our goal of no single points of failure and total resilience across our power protection infrastructure, we effectively doubled our capacity, but the size of the critical load the UPSs are protecting hasn’t changed, so you would naturally expect that efficiency would actually go down, especially as, historically, UPS didn’t like being loaded under 75%. “However, as was promised by the KUP team, that isn’t the case and efficiency has increased to over 95%, at less than 50% load across both systems. The reduced power losses equate to around 130kWh every day, which is greater than the power consumed by our core networking kit in the data centre. What’s more, as our load increases over time, those efficiency credentials will improve even further.” Kohler, kohler-ups.co.uk

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SPECIAL FEATURE

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

KEEP WARM WITH INFRARED THIS WINTER With the Committee on Climate Change stating that, by 2025, no new homes should be connecting to the gas grid, new-build properties will increasingly be turning to electric heating solutions. Tansun assesses the benefits that infrared heating can bring.

For those with traditional storage heaters that need replacing, Tansun says that infrared heating should be considered for the home because it is smaller, cheaper and more aesthetically pleasing than a storage heater

espite a unit of electricity being higher than gas, there are many benefits of electric heating. Firstly, it is easy to install, maintenance is extremely limited, and the heating can be localised much more effectively without the need for advanced heating controls. Electric heating can simply be turned on where required, which is more than enough for many people.

In Britain, there are around 1.6 million properties using storage heaters, mainly in the privately rented and social housing sectors. But with infrared heating coming in at 100% efficient, its use as an alternative electrical heating system is becoming more and more popular against storage heating, which even now still only has to achieve a minimum of 38% efficiency.

as the nature of electricity changes (with more focus on renewables and gas) and as energy producers look to match supply with demand, there will be less electricity available at night. The units themselves tend to be 3kW or more, so while they are fine to charge using the current Economy 7 tariff at night on a cheaper tariff, if that is scrapped, then they may become extremely expensive to charge.

All-important price and design factors Many people who currently use storage heaters are looking to replace their old units with new ones, but are often surprised when they discover the costs that come with replacing them. Storage heaters from industry leaders can start at about £700 (per unit and before installation). Top of the range units from the main players in the market are often more expensive, but even at the lower end of the spectrum, prices start at around £350. There are many types of infrared heaters available, meanwhile, so prices vary depending on the brand and how the panel looks. From Tansun, a 300W panel will cost less than £400, and a 785W unit comes in at under £600. When it comes to appearance and style, infrared heaters always come out on top. Storage heaters need to have big ceramic/ brick cores so will always be bulky, whereas infrared heaters come in many different styles and can even incorporate a design or a photo on them. Radiant panel heaters are also very thin, which means they don’t take up as much space as storage heating systems, and can also have dual functionality. For example, an infrared mirror in a bathroom is not only a mirror, but a device that provides heat (without steaming up).

The future of storage heating If customers are willing to invest in a topquality unit, they will benefit from a durable heater with good controllability. However,

The future of infrared heaters “Storage heaters need to have big ceramic/ brick cores so will always be bulky, whereas infrared heaters come in many different styles and can even incorporate a design or a photo on them.”

Infrared heating is an efficient form of electric heating, so its future is bright. Electric heating won’t be the solution for everyone, as thousands of people across the UK have central heating (boilers and radiators) and it is considered inadvisable to remove that system and replace it with electrical heating. However, with the new Committee on Climate Change (CCC) making headlines this year, all new homes should be future-proofed for low-carbon heating; and by 2025 at the latest, no new homes should be connecting to the gas grid. That means there will be a huge number of properties being developed that will not be able to have a standard central heating system. For those with traditional storage heaters that are in need of replacement, infrared heating should be considered – not only because it is smaller and more aesthetically pleasing than a storage heater, but more importantly, it is the cheaper and more efficient option to use going forward. All of Tansun’s products are made in the UK and are designed using premium components. The company has been established for 35 years and pioneered the concept of radiant electric heaters alongside Philips technology. Tansun has the largest range of domestic, commercial and industrial radiant heaters in the world, providing maintenance-free, safe and healthy radiant heaters for many different types of heating applications. Tansun, tansun.com

56 | November 2019

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Prove safety and calibration Prove more than your voltage indicator with the new Martindale PDSX Series proving units

Easy on-site verification of both voltage indicators & multifunction testers • Safely proves voltage indicators and test lamps for Electricity at Work compliance

• Four new models colour coded for voltage outputs of 440V and 690V

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• Long battery life with low battery indicator

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Metrel A1532 EVSE Test Adaptor

Available from your local wholesaler. Further details available at: www.metrel.co.uk info@metrel.co.uk 01924 245000

You wouldn’t use these in a commercial environment!

So why use heaters designed for domestic situations in your student accommodation? Ecostat has been developed over 20 years and operates within set parameters to ensure energy is not used when it is not needed. Students can set temperatures for their own comfort, but cannot over-ride the controls to high levels or for long periods of time. This is what makes Ecostat different from ‘domestic’ heaters fitted with integrated-controls.

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The local control that can only be unlocked with a bespoke handset To find out more call 01787 320 604 or visit www.prefectcontrols.com

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