CABLEtalk February/March 2019

February/March 2019 £4.50

Backing for regulation is growing brick by brick – now it’s time to make your voice heard PAGES 6&7

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Industry view by MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston

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Are you ready for making tax digital?

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18th Edition training helps spread the word

CONTENTS FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019 OPINION

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Acting Managing Director Alan Wilson on the widening skills gap

NEWS FEATURES

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Meet Joe Buchanan, electrician and champion bodybuilder

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Government issues Call for Evidence in regulation debate

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SELECT and SEC Group welcome new consultation over retentions Safety warnings issued over counterfeit copies of 18th Edition

FEATURES

FEATURES

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Apprentice of the Year finalists rewarded in special presentation

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MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston gives his verdict on today’s industry

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Final tests and checks go under the spotlight in Technical Update Making tax digital is coming soon – but are you ready for lift-off?

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SELECT joins party as SEC Group celebrates its 25th anniversary

FOCUS

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Scottish Government joins the fray in the battle over retentions

TRAINING

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Our tutors hit the road to deliver 18th Edition courses to Members Vital fire and security training is at the heart of upcoming courses

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

36 FEATURES

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Talented pupils battle it out for first prize in 2019 CABEC final

The latest innovations, plus advice on legal matters from MacRoberts

DIARY

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A chance to win £50, plus meet your new Membership Manager

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NEW COURSES NOW AVAILABLE SELECT is proud to announce a new series of training courses

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See Pages 34&35 for more details

Fire & Security Short Courses, in partnership with New College Lanarkshire: ● ● ● ● ●

Access control design & installation Fire alarms design & installation Intruder alarms design & installation CCTV design & installation Fire & Security Commissioning

Other courses: ● The Electrical Site Safety Assessment (TESSA) ● Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment & Installation (No324) ● Energy Storage Systems (No415)

Find out more at: www.select.org.uk/training

COMMENT

Remember to mind the gap!

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his year started with some significant changes in the electrical industry as it marked the implementation of the latest version of BS 7671 or the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations. After many years of preparation and discussion, the new ‘blue book’ has now come into force.

While works designed before the end of 2018 can still be completed in 2019 using the old regulations, most electricians will now be making some adjustments to their working practices and will be using the new regulations.

Changes in the regulations also place a greater demand on SELECT and in particular our training and technical staff. For the last year, our team of Technical Advisors have been working hard to update all of our training materials. The first of the new 18th Edition training courses have just been held and we have had some great feedback from delegates.

While the changes to the regulations are not huge, there are a number of significant amendments, particularly from a safety perspective. However, one thing that often goes unnoticed when there are changes made to regulations and methods of working is the widening of the knowledge gap between those who are properly trained and qualified and those who call themselves

electricians but have no past, current or indeed updated qualifications. As each change is made, that knowledge gap becomes wider and wider.

As readers of CABLEtalk will be aware, SELECT has been running a campaign for nearly four years to introduce Protection of Title for electricians. But what’s also become a little lost in time is the fact that it was one of the Scottish Government’s own ministers who started the most recent regulation debate.

“As each year passes, the knowledge, qualifications and skills gap gets larger and larger” At the AIE conference in Edinburgh in September 2015, the then Minister for Business, Energy and Tourism, Fergus Ewing, was due to speak to delegates from the UK and across Europe about Scotland’s energy plan, the impact renewable energy made in meeting our energy demands and

how small-scale installations undertaken by electricians could help meet Scottish Government renewable targets.

However, after hearing at lunchtime that, in fact, anyone could call themself an electrician without holding any form of qualifications, Fergus ripped up his prepared speech and used the opportunity to encourage the industry in Scotland to push for regulation to protect the general public from these unqualified ‘electricians’.

This campaign is now heading towards a crucial stage. The Scottish Government has just announced a Call for Evidence to hear from the industry and users about issues over poor quality electrical work. It is vital that every SELECT Member – and indeed every qualified electrician – takes the opportunity to participate in this call and uses it to press the case for regulation.

Nearly four years after Fergus Ewing’s call for action, we now have a great opportunity to improve the safety of Scottish householders by introducing Protection of Title.

As each year passes, the knowledge, qualifications and skills gap gets larger and larger. If we don’t ‘mind the gap’, more and more people’s lives and properties will be put at risk.

Alan Wilson Acting Managing Director, SELECT CABLEtalk

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February/March 2019 £4.50

Backing for regulation is growing brick by brick – now it’s time to make your voice heard PAGES 6&7

view by MSP Are you ready for 18th Edition training 16 Industry Jamie Halcro Johnston 24 making tax digital? 32 helps spread the word

CABLEtalk MANAGING EDITOR Alan Wilson alan.wilson@select.org.uk PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR Demi Armstrong demi.armstrong@select.org.uk EDITOR Iain Mason iain@connectcommunications.co.uk 0141 560 3022 PUBLISHER Connect Publications DESIGN & PRODUCTION Ryan Swinney ryan@connectcommunications.co.uk ADVERTISING David Hughes davidh@connectcommunications.co.uk 0131 561 0022 Jane Deane jane@connectcommunications.co.uk 0131 561 0020 CABLEtalk is produced by Connect Publications on behalf of SELECT

Connect Publications Studio 2001, Mile End 12 Seedhill Road Paisley PA1 1JS Tel: 0141 561 0300

The Walled Garden Bush Estate Midlothian EH26 0SB Tel: 0131 445 5577

CABLEtalk is the official magazine of SELECT and is distributed free to qualifying readers.

ISSN 1365-3288 SELECT is the trading style of the Electrical Contractors’ Association of Scotland. The SELECT logo is a registered Collective Mark.

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NEWS REGULATION CAMPAIGN

Have YOUR say l Members urged to take part in vital survey l Government gathers evidence of dangers l MSP hosts meeting to discuss next steps

By Iain Mason CABLETalk Editor

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ELECT Members are being urged to make their voices heard in a new survey that will help the Scottish Government consider the case for regulation.

The government has issued a Call for Evidence to gather first-hand testimonies and information about substandard electrical installations.

Conducted by specialist research agency Pye Tait, it will seek to gather evidence on the extent of such work in Scotland and the risk it poses to the general public.

SELECT Acting Managing Director

Alan Wilson said: “This Call for Evidence is the industry’s opportunity to send a clear message to the Scottish Government that action is required and that regulation should be introduced. It is therefore vital that as many Members as possible take part in the survey to demonstrate the industry’s belief that regulation is vital for our industry going forward.”

Along with a number of partner organisations, including the SJIB and Unite the Union, SELECT has spent two years lobbying for the introduction of Protection of Title, which would make it an offence for someone to call themselves an electrician if they were not qualified.

The Secretary of the SJIB, Fiona Harper, added: “The survey only takes

on regulation... a few minutes to fill out, but could change the industry for the better and make Scotland safer for the public.”

You can take part in the survey at www. pyetait.com/Regulating-Electricians-inScotland but hurry – the closing date for submissions is Friday 15 February.

News of the Call for Evidence came shortly before a high-level meeting about regulation at the Scottish Parliament.

Jamie Hepburn MSP, Scottish Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills, hosted the meeting of the Electricians Working Group on 24 January.

During a very positive meeting, it was apparent that there is a great consensus both from the industry and ‘others’ –including Citizens Advice and Trading Standards – that regulation is necessary to protect public safety.

There was backing across the board for Protection of Title and the support it would offer customers, especially those in the

Radio ads get our message to the nation

domestic sector. Everyone present recognised that Protection of Title was one part of the process and that more needed to be done, especially on improving the use and promotion of the government’s own Approved Certifier of Construction scheme, to assist in signposting customers to proper businesses.

A further meeting of the working group is to be held in April, during which it will consider the results of the Call for Evidence.

To help in the campaign, SELECT has also issued a new fold-out leaflet (left), outlining the very real dangers of using unqualified electricians and urging people to back our call for Protection of Title.

SELECT has reinforced its regulation message with a hard-hitting week of nationwide advertising.

Run at the end of January, the Scotlandwide radio advertising campaign highlighted the need to regulate the industry and warned of the dangers of allowing unqualified people to carry out electrical work.

Demi Armstrong, Events, Marketing & Website Coordinator, said: “This latest media activity has helped to keep up the momentum of our campaign for Protection of Title.

“This drive has been at the forefront of our work for many years and is now gaining more support from politicians of all parties and from the industry and public at large.”

You can read more about our ongoing campaign for regulation at www.select.org.uk/safer/

Wall of support shows backing grow brick-by-brick SELECT has recently launched a new online ‘wall of support’ to show how backing for our regulation campaign is steadily building.

The engaging graphic shows the ever-growing number of organisations and individuals who are throwing their weight behind this vital issue.

SELECT President Kevin Griffin said: “The wall illustrates the strength of feeling from

across a huge range of disciplines that being an electrician is a highly-skilled and professional occupation and that those who practise it must be suitably qualified.”

Bodies that have contributed a brick include Electrical Safety First, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the Scottish Association of Landlords,

the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ Group, and the Association of Electrical Safety Managers .

Kevin added: “We would like to thank the very significant and influential number of organisations which have given time and support to this vital campaign."

See the wall for yourself at bit.ly/wall_support

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NEWS RETENTIONS Commercial buyers ‘are worst payers’ – survey Nearly 80 per cent of engineering services organisations say they typically receive payment more than 30 days after the due date, with commercial buyers the worst payers.

The findings come in the latest Building Engineering Business Survey, run in partnership with SELECT, SNIPEF, the ECA and BESA, and sponsored by Scolmore.

Buyers in the commercial sector were identified as the worst payers, with over eight in ten (83 per cent) saying they received payment more than 30 days after commercial work.

For public sector work, on average, 71 per cent of respondents were paid after 30 days.

Overall, almost a fifth (19 per cent) were paid after 60 days.

Retentions were held against nearly two thirds (58 per cent) of survey respondents.

More than half (52 per cent) said that between 1 and 10 per cent of their organisation’s turnover was tied up in retentions.

SELECT Acting Managing Director, Alan Wilson, said: “It’s clear that despite wellintentioned statements from a number of bodies and governments, nothing has altered in the payment regime in our sector.

“It’s a matter of urgency that this issue, which is the number one priority for many businesses, is received payment tackled quickly and more than 30 days effectively.

“The time for talking is after commercial over; we must see some work real action to help alleviate the issues our Members face.”

The survey also revealed that more than three in four engineering services organisations (77 per cent) say turnover increased or remained steady in Q3 2018. In addition, nearly eight out of ten (78 per cent) predicted that their turnover would grow or remain steady for Q4 2018.

The survey received 387 responses from companies across the multi-billion pound industry, mainly regarding their performance in Q3 (1 July to 30 September 2018), and their subsequent expectations for Q4.

Government consultation on retentions is welcomed SELECT and SEC Group applaud minister’s announcement of discussion into payments

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83%

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ELECT has welcomed moves by the Scottish Government to take action on one of the industry’s main problem areas – cash retentions.

A public consultation on the use of retentions in construction contracts will take place in spring 2019. This will be in advance of any announcement on the matter in the Westminster Parliament.

The move follows long-term campaigning by SELECT and the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ (SEC) Group, both of which have proposed placing all retentions into a trust-based deposit scheme.

Announcing the move, Jamie Hepburn MSP, Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills, said: “Cash retention in construction industry contracts is common practice, including in the public sector.

“Its purpose is to ensure the contractor completes the job. However, it must be used

proportionately and responsibly.”

Alan Wilson, Acting Managing Director of SELECT, said: “We wholeheartedly support action on this troubling issue and look forward to positive developments in the upcoming Holyrood consultation.”

Meanwhile, Rudi Klein (pictured below), chief executive of the SEC Group, added: “After many years, it seems that we are now making real progress towards protecting cash retentions.

“It’s great to see the Scottish Government taking the lead on this.

“Many in the construction industry have expressed concern about the abuse of retentions in contracts. Prompt and fair payment has been a long-standing issue and these are undoubtedly barriers to investment, productivity improvement and growth.”

For Rudi’s latest update on payments and retentions, turn to Pages 30 & 31

HQ charging points on the rise As the electric vehicle (EV) revolution gathers pace, SELECT has led by example by ramping up the installation of EV charging points at its headquarters.

We have added another four fast charge spaces at the Walled Garden in Penicuik, bringing the total number to six and we plan to install more in the near future, including rapid points which can charge an EV in less than an hour.

It means that the growing number of electrical contractors and suppliers who visit the SELECT office in their electric or hybrid vehicles can charge them on site while they conduct their business.

Dave Forrester, Head of Technical Services, said: “New registrations of plug-in cars in the UK have increased from 3,500 in 2013 to more than 182,000 by

the end of October 2018. It is a remarkable growth trajectory in a market which is only going to increase.

“As ever, SELECT aims to stay ahead of the curve by enabling EV users to quickly and efficiently recharge, helping the drive towards zero emission motoring which will be of benefit across society.”

In conjunction with West College Scotland, SELECT has also introduced a training course in Electrical Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation, designed to keep Members at the cutting edge of next generation technology.

The new course was offered through SELECT’s dedicated Training department, which was launched in September to promote and deliver training across the electrotechnical sector in Scotland.

The Walled Garden now has six charging points

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NEWS THE 18TH EDITION

Dave: 18th counterfeits are putting safety at risk

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he ongoing threat of poor and potentially dangerous electrical work has been highlighted once again by SELECT, as it has been revealed that counterfeit copies of the new 18th Edition are being offered for sale.

Bogus PDF copies of the BS 7671:2018 Requirements for Electrical Installation (IET Wiring Regulations 18th Edition) could be

devastating for electrical professionals, with missing or corrupted information potentially leading to unsafe work and risk of fire, electric shock and death.

The latest counterfeiting activity reinforces the message that SELECT has been promoting in the Scottish Parliament in its campaign, backed by the Scottish Joint Industry Board and Unite the Union, for recognition of electricians as a profession.

Dave Forrester (right), Head of Technical Services

at SELECT, said: “Only a short time after the issue of electrical safety was debated in the Scottish Parliament, we have now uncovered bogus British Standards and other manuals being offered online to companies which will put consumers in further jeopardy”.

Mark Coles, who is Head of Technical Regulations at the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), said the fake PDFs, which were being distributed through a

18TH EDITION CORRECTIONS AVAILABLE TO DOWNLOAD Members should be aware that a corrigendum to BS 7671:2018, the IET Wiring

Regulations 18th Edition, has been published by the IET. The corrigendum

NEW MEMBERS

Eight firms have become SELECT Members since December 2018

Todd Electrical Ltd – Edinburgh

KMS Construction (Aberdeen) Ltd – Aberdeen

API Technical (Electrical) Ltd – Lanarkshire

TMC Electrical Services (Scotland) Ltd – Lanarkshire

J Campbell Electrical – Inverness Matt Burton Electrical – Dumfries

EICR Aberdeen – Aberdeen Rigar Electrical Services Ltd – Lanarkshire

NATALIE BURKE Get to know SELECT’s new Membership Manager better in our interview on Page 38 10

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“These bogus manuals put consumers in jeopardy”

18th Edition Training: Pages 32-33

highlights a small number of minor corrections to the standard and is available to download free of charge at bit.ly/IET_correction When downloaded, it

variety of channels, looked “convincing” on the first inspection. However, they are sprinkled with errors and corrupted information.

The IET is now taking action to combat the counterfeiters by inserting a hologram in its regulations – commonly known as the 18th Edition – to help users identify genuine copies. It contains the IET logo and the word ‘Genuine’.

Mark added: “Ensuring that genuine copies of IET publications are being used by electrical professionals is important in order that correct standards are used to protect the public and those working in the industry from injury and fatality.” should be retained, together with your copy of BS 7671:2018, and be available during technical assessments carried out in 2019.

Tributes paid to Past President Jim McArthur It is with great sadness that we report the untimely death of Past President Jim McArthur in December.

Jim gave a lifetime of service to the electrical industry, not just in the west of Scotland, where his family business is based, but across Scotland, the UK and indeed Europe.

As well as running a very successful electrical business, which provided many jobs within the Lanarkshire area, Jim gave his time willingly to the wider electrical community.

He chaired his local SELECT Branch on more than one occasion, was a key player in several important industry committees and boards for many years and served in the Association’s Presidential

CABLEtalk

team for six years, leading the organisation as President from 1997 to 1999.

In addition to the huge amount of support he provided to SELECT, Jim also had a passion for the Electrical Industries Charity and its vital work in supporting disadvantaged people in the UK electrical industry.

He was instrumental in developing the charity into the modern and successful organisation we all now know and served as its President for a number of years.

Jim will be sadly missed by his family and many friends and colleagues in the wider electrical industry, and on behalf of everyone we send our condolences to all his family.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019

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FEATURES MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

No ordinary SELECT Member Joe Buchanan balances running a successful business with being a champion bodybuilder

By Stewart McRobert

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ver the past 40 years, Joe Buchanan has not only built a successful electrical business in his native Ayrshire, he has also crafted a reputation as one of Scotland’s greatest-ever bodybuilders.

In fact, after winning the Scottish Masters championship in 2018 he became the first person to hold that title after previously becoming both Junior Mr Scotland and Mr Scotland.

It’s a mightily impressive track record, especially since he began running his own firm in 2004.

Joe said: “I started as an apprentice with the local council – at that time it was Kilmarnock and Loudon.

“I spent 14 years there before moving to a maintenance role with the Digital Computer Corporation in Ayr. Eventually, they closed down and that’s when I became self-employed.”

Fortunately, he’s been busy since his very first days – “Even through the recession I was snowed under with work,” he says – and business is still full-on, to the extent that he currently has an adult trainee working with him.

He is also an enthusiastic member of SELECT, which he joined approximately 10 years ago: “It’s very useful to keep me up to date with technical developments and new procedures,” he says. “There are first class training programmes too.”

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Joe

When he’s not training, Joe runs a successful business in Ayrshire

From skinny to mighty

First class training is something that’s also been key to success in his 38-year career in competitive bodybuilding. It all began with lifting weights...

Joe said: “I was a really skinny youngster and actually visited the doctor to see if there was something wrong. Luckily, I got the all clear. My uncle was weight training at that time.

I visited the gym with him and that’s how it started.”

Always active and sporty he took to it right away: “The first contests I entered as a schoolboy were weightlifting competitions,” he said.

“At 15 I won the Scottish schoolboys weightlifting championships. That was my first national title.

“After moving to bodybuilding I became Junior Mr Scotland in 1982 and Mr Scotland in 1990.”

There have been many more successes along the way too. Joe has competed at UK level, picking up second and third places in the British championships.

Last year’s Masters was extra special.

He said: “It was magical when I became the first person to have won these three titles. My wife, Nicola said she’d never forget the moment I was announced as the winner.”

They say that behind every successful man there’s a successful woman – and Joe believes that’s certainly true in his case: “Nicola is at

“I’m on a quest to encourage people to never lie down to old age” every workout. She’s the backbone of the team who prepares all the food and puts in lots of hard work. She pushes me on and motivates me – I couldn’t have done it without her.”

Being a bodybuilder is a constant work in progress, but one he relishes.

Right now, he is ticking over with hour-long visits to the gym four or five times a week.

He said: “You can’t train flat out all year round. It’s like any other sport – you peak for specific events.

“My preparation begins eight months out from a major competition.

That’s when I start upping the ante

Seven meals a day – starting at 5:00am

It takes eight months preparation to work up to a major competition – and that’s when Joe starts getting REALLY serious.

His daily diet during that time consist of seven meals, the first taken at 5.00am. “I eat at three-hourly intervals throughout the day. Meals consist of things like chicken and fish for protein, as well as carbohydrate sources like baked potatoes, rice and oatmeal.”

In total, he consumes between 4,000 and 6,000 calories a day – that’s at least two to three times what would be considered a ‘normal’ daily intake for a male adult.

and doing a lot of cardio and gym work, as well as having a restricted diet.

“In the weeks before a competition I train three times a day, six days a week.”

Joe gets even more satisfaction from the sport now than he did when he was younger. He said: “I have competed in all-age competitions against guys half my age and held my own.”

That rewarding feeling

He said the winning feeling has only been surpassed when he has coached others to success. “That’s really rewarding. One person I helped was Michael O’Hanlon. He had just come fifth in Junior Mr Scotland when I met him, but I guided him until he won the overall Mr Britain title. Another competitor I’ve coached is Craig Anderson who went on to win the Mr Scotland title three times.”

Having reached the masters stage – he’s now 57– Joe said he’s taking things year by year. “I’m not competing in 2019. I have a grandson aged two and want to spend more time with him.

Next year, we’ll see what happens. Plus, I’ve judged at a high level and might do more of that in the future.”

The only certainty is that there’s no chance of Joe getting out the pipe and slippers. He said: “I’m on a quest to encourage people to never lie down to old age. Far too many young athletes retire at a predetermined age. To me, as long as you have the fire in your belly and the desire to do it you should keep doing what you love.”

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FEATURES SELECT AWARDS Fiona Harper, The Secretary of the SJIB Stephen Berry, finalist

Jamie Hepburn MSP

Hold the front page!

Apprentice of the Year finalists are presented with personalised CABLEtalk covers as they’re congratulated at special ceremony by MSP Jamie Hepburn

By Demi Armstrong Events, Marketing & Website Coordinator

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he three Apprentice of the Year finalists in this year’s SELECT Awards have hit the headlines again after lining up for another celebration of their achievements.

Blair Hendry, Stephen Berry and Elyse McBride were handed personalised CABLEtalk front pages by MSP Jamie Hepburn, the Minister for Business, Fair

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Work and Skills, at a special ceremony.

It was another proud occasion for overall winner Blair, who works for Fife Council, and his fellow finalists Stephen, who is employed by Electrical Solutions Network, and Elyse from TClarke.

Just like the formal awards in Glasgow on 12 October, all three finalists were accompanied by family and work colleagues.

Representatives from sponsors the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) and Edmundson Electrical were also present at the event at the Holyrood Hotel in

Stephen (cen tre) with his fam ily and local MSP Jo hn Scott

Elyse McBride, finalist Blair Hendry, winner Jock Simpson, Chair of the SJIB Gary Mason, Edmundson Electrical

“All three finalists were deservedly recognised for their technical and academic expertise, and also their energy, enthusiasm and approach to teamwork”

Edinburgh on 12 December.

Fiona Harper, The Secretary of the SJIB, said: “All three finalists were deservedly recognised for their technical and academic expertise, and also their energy, enthusiasm and approach to teamwork.”

Blair (centre) with colleagues from Fife Council CABLEtalk

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FEATURES THE BIG INTERVIEW

Speak with

one voice As the Conservative MSP for Highlands and Islands, Jamie Halcro Johnston is at the heart of the campaign for regulation of the electrical industy. Here, he outlines why safety is important for everyone – and how he sees the future of construction shaping up

By Stewart McRobert

Hello Jamie. Why is regulation of our industry so important?

The lack of regulation in the electrical sector is a bit of an anomaly. There are so many professions that have some degree of protection, it seems strange that electrical work doesn’t already have it in place. This was an issue that I was aware of before becoming an MSP, but I was slightly surprised at just how many other MSPs didn’t know that there was no protection. It is important that people are safe in their home and consumers are confident that when they’re choosing to bring in someone to carry out electrical work, that person is qualified to do so.

What are the dangers of unregulated work?

One of the most pressing issues is the risks people face from a dangerous installation. Electrical shock can range from a small jolt to serious injury or, in the most extreme example, death.

I know there has been a lot of evidence put forward about the dangers and SELECT themselves have helped educate people. As well as direct personal injury, we know that lots of fires happen every year because of faulty installation. Although a minority 16

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of these result in injury or death, it remains an area of concern. You only have to look at the situation where a block of flats or terraced houses is affected and you can see that poorly executed electrical work can have a potentially devastating impact on much more than one home. Plus, there is the financial cost of unregulated work. People spend hundreds, or even thousands, of pounds carrying out remedies when work has been badly done. That can be a real problem. Most people don’t budget to fix work that should be done properly first time around.

Do you think it should be an offence to install electrical work when not qualified to do so?

There are lots of ways of achieving the outcome of a more regulated and safer industry. It’s key that representative bodies, government and other groups work together to come up with a solution that discourages people from undertaking unqualified electrical work.

There has been a lot of hard work done already, but there is lots more to do. My focus is on bringing people together for discussion and trying to build a

consensus around the best way to proceed. I would not want to close down any possible avenues on how we regulate. Instead, I’d want to be flexible in our approach and ensure we can make real progress. There have to be consequences for undertaking work that you are simply not qualified to do if we are to achieve protection and regulation.

At the moment, a number of trade bodies and organisations recognise the need for regulation but the trick is how we make that regulation come together and working out where an offence for carrying out unqualified electrical work could sit in the wider legal context.

How can we assure people in Scotland that the electrician who comes into their home is properly qualified?

The issue is not just a concern for the industry but for government and consumers. There is a role for raising awareness and providing people with the tools to identify the qualification levels of those undertaking electrical work, and for those who provide the training for others to work in specialised areas. Even in a regulated

profession, there will be people who break the law and carry out work that they are not qualified to do. The important thing is to make the public aware of that and we need clear prohibitions against presenting yourself as a qualified electrician when you are not. The public want to see a simple mark or accreditation which gives them confidence that the person undertaking work is qualified. The system has to be as simple as possible. No matter the area – whether it’s an electrical or building project – success will be depend on getting the public to do some research into any organisation they invite to take on work. Making that research as simple as possible is a good thing.

You raised a motion in the Scottish Parliament in support of regulation of electricians in October.

What kind of reception did it get?

A very good one – I was very pleased with the amount of support we received. Eventually we got support from across the political parties and I now know there are lots of people in my own party, as

well as the Scottish Labour party and the Greens, who will back us as we go forward. Although there was some support from within the SNP it was pretty clear that they were following the Scottish Government who are a little hesitant to move forward at this time. That said, we had support from all five parties and the debate was very well attended.

Have any other MSPs expressed support for regulation?

There are many MSPs who have taken an interest in the subject and are well acquainted with the arguments. A few have previously had contact with organisations like SELECT or have spoken to trade unions. However, there are a lot for whom this is an entirely new issue and those in that position often share the reaction of the general public – they are surprised that the electrical trade isn’t regulated already.

What potential barriers do you think there are to regulation?

I’d like to see the Scottish Government make more progress on this issue. One of the barriers we have faced is forcing the topic up the political agenda. We know it’s not a new idea – it’s been on ministers’ desks for a few years now. It has been raised through a working group where there has been considerable discussion. However, we have been successful in keeping it high profile.

There have been competing views on how regulation would work in practice and that has played some role in delaying progress. My belief is that we need to start building a solution that is widely acceptable and have those organisations who are pressing for regulation speak with one voice. If they come together and are agreed it would make it easier to take forward to the government and harder Continued on page 18 >>>

“There have to be consequences for undertaking work that you are simply not qualified to do” Jamie Halcro Johnston CABLEtalk

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FEATURES THE BIG INTERVIEW Continued from page 17

for the government to delay. That’s something I’ll be looking to facilitate along with other MSPs who have intimated they would be willing to support this. Also, I believe the government were not sure how legislation would land with the opposition, but I think it’s clear that it would command the necessary support.

There is strong emphasis on moving forward, and that was a very important aspect of the motion and debate.

The government has announced a Call for Evidence on regulation.

What should happen next?

It’s important that as many of the interested organisations as possible are involved in the Call for Evidence and promote it among other interested parties. In essence, the larger the body of evidence that’s built up, the stronger the case we have for regulation. We are past the point of arguing the merits – the case has been well made and I’ve yet to hear any arguments that regulation would be detrimental or unnecessary. The government should use its influence to get the relevant people around the table and talking about detail, without being wedded to previous proposals.

“...a lot of people in the construction industry are looking to retire in the next few years, which will have a real effect” 18

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What do you think is the current state of the construction industry?

I’m my party’s Shadow Minister for Skills and Training and the construction industry is a big area of interest for me.

I also sit on the Scottish Government’s Economy, Energy and Fair Work Committee and we have just launched an enquiry into the construction sector.

We all depend on an effective and skilled construction industry and all the parties have set out high ambitions for house building and so on. Progress can only be made by having a successful and sustainable sector. There has to be a real focus on the skills pipeline. We know a lot of people in the construction industry are looking to retire in the next few years and that will have a real effect.

We want to see businesses working with government to show there is training available and people are being encouraged into the sector – that will also depend on it being attractive and sustainable. If you go into schools and colleges and encourage people to get involved in the sector, even though things are difficult just now and the opportunities won’t be there on a sustainable basis, who will choose it?

A number of major projects, such as the Queensferry Crossing, have come to an end and even some smaller projects like

schools and hospitals are finishing too.

We need to see where new jobs are coming from. One major challenge will be making sure skills are not lost and the government must do what it can to support the industry by providing the contracts that are so important.

Are you confident for the future?

There have been some really interesting developments in the last few years and the industry has shown how innovative it can be. I’ve spoken with people about topics like pre-fabrication and how buildings are constructed in the future.

That could have real implications for cost and build time, and lead to even more work. I am also pleased to see the increasing number of women entering the sector. It is important that we break down traditional barriers. If women are discouraged from entering the sector we lose out on a huge pool of talented people. Looking to the future, I think it is going to be a sector that becomes increasingly specialised – we have to prepare for that and make sure it gets the investment required. I am always very impressed by the commitment, will and forward thinking of the industry and of trade bodies such as SELECT. I think it’s a sector that’s well represented and one that has a bright future.

FEATURES TECHNICAL UPDATE

Tried and tested

To conclude our series of updates on the test sequence required by BS 7671:2008:+A3:2015, we look at the tests used to determine prospective fault current, check phase sequence, and to check the correct functioning of equipment Continued on page 20 >>> CABLEtalk

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019

19

FEATURES TECHNICAL UPDATE Figure 1

By Bob Cairney I Eng MIET Technical Standards Adviser, SELECT

T

hese tests are carried out with the supply connected, i.e. they are power–on tests which is regarded as working live. A suitable risk assessment should therefore be carried out and adequate precautions taken to ensure the safety of both the person carrying out the work and any others who might be affected prior to testing, e.g. ensure suitable test equipment and test leads are used and consider the use of appropriate fused test probes.

Test 7: Prospective fault current (Ipf)

Firstly it is important to understand that the term ‘prospective fault current’ is the maximum fault current that is likely to occur in an installation and includes both short-circuit current and earth fault current.

Regulation 612.11 requires the prospective short-circuit current and the prospective earth fault current to be measured, calculated or determined by another method, at the origin and at other relevant points in the installation.

Protection against fault current is required to ensure that in the event of an insulation failure between live conductors and between line conductors and earth, that any resulting fault current is suitably contained or limited to prevent injury or damage to persons or property due 20

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Both devices show maximum fault breaking capacity

“The maximum fault breaking capacity is most usually identified in a rectangle on the front or side of the device" to the excessive temperatures or electromagnetic stresses caused by such faults as required by Regulation 131.5.

The capability of overcurrent protective devices such as circuit-

breakers and fuses to withstand the prospective fault current determined must be considered at the design stage of an installation and the breaking capacity of each protective device should be not less than the prospective fault current determined at the point where the device is installed.

The maximum fault current breaking capacity (ICN) of a BS EN 60898 circuit breaker or BS EN 61009 RCBO is normally identified on the device with the value shown in a rectangle on the front or side of the device as shown in Figure 1. The ICN value is an indication of the maximum fault current that the device can interrupt safely, although if subjected to such a fault current, its characteristics may be altered and it may no longer be usable.

Note: An ICN value of 6000 (6kA) is shown for both devices and this information should be recorded in the ‘Circuit details’ of the ‘Schedule of test

results’ in the column provided for recording breaking capacity (kA) of the Overcurrent device as shown in Figure 2.

For other protective devices, information on typical short-circuit breaking capacities is given in the table below.

To test a single–phase installation Measurement of both the prospective earth fault current and prospective short-circuit current at the origin of the supply will be necessary.

Using an earth fault loop impedance test instrument or multi-function test instrument, set it to the appropriate test setting, which depending on whether you are measuring prospective earth fault current or prospective short-circuit current, requires selection of a specific test option.

Select the L-PE test option where measuring prospective earth fault current, then using three wire test leads, connect the appropriate probes to the line, neutral and protective conductors respectively of the incoming supply.

Device type

Semi-enclosed fuse to BS 3036 with category of duty

General purpose cartridge fuse to BS 88-2 for use by skilled persons mainly in industrial applications

Note: Be aware that, unlike when testing external earth fault loop impedance (Ze) of an installation, it won't be necessary to disconnect the means of earthing during this test.

Then simply press the test instrument test button and the display will show both an earth fault loop impedance value and, below it, the measured prospective earth fault current.

The above procedure should then be repeated after selecting the L –N test option, which is selected where measuring the prospective shortcircuit current. This, however, does not require the use of three wire test leads – only requiring two wire test leads.

These are connected to the incoming line and neutral supply using appropriate probes and again the test button is pressed to start the test.

The display will show a value for the line to neutral loop in ohms and below it the prospective short-circuit current in kA. Compare the measured values of prospective earth fault current and prospective short-circuit current and

then record the higher of the two in the space provided for this on the schedule of test results – at ‘Ipf at DB ’ located at the top left hand side of the schedule of test results as shown in Figure 2 overleaf.

To test a three-phase installation

The procedures described above for single-phase installations should be followed for both prospective earth fault current and prospective shortcircuit current for each line conductor.

The prospective three-phase shortcircuit current will always be larger than the single-phase prospective earth fault or prospective short-circuit current and in three-phase systems the worst case situation would actually be a line-to-line (symmetrical fault) short circuit between all line conductors, which cannot be measured.

It is therefore recommended that when determining prospective fault current on three–phase installations to simply double the value of the Continued on page 22 >>>

Device designation

Rated short-circuit breaking capacity (kA)

S1A

1

S2A

2

S4A

4

System E (bolted) System G (clip in)

80 at 400 V 50 at 230 V 80 at 400 V

System C Type I

16

Type II

31.5

Type I

16.5 at 240 V

Type II

80 at 415 V

Cartridge fuse to BS 1361

Type I

16.5 at 240 V

Withdrawn – replaced by BS 88-3

Type II

33 at 415 V

General purpose cartridge fuse to BS 88-3 mainly for domestic use Compact cartridge fuse to BS 88-6 for use by skilled persons in industrial and commercial applications Withdrawn – replaced by BS 88-2

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21

FEATURES TECHNICAL UPDATE Figure 2

Test 9: Functional testing

This is simply a check rather than a specific test that the inspector should carry out during the verification process to ensure that the electrical installation operates correctly, i.e. the proper functioning for the intended use as required by Regulation 120.1

RCDs

Regulation 612.13.1 requires that where fault protection and/or additional protection is to be provided by an RCD, the effectiveness of any test facility incorporated in the device shall be verified and simply requires the operation of the integral test button on the RCD to ensure that it trips the device.

This should be recorded on the schedule of test results in the column provided for ‘test operation’ by inserting a tick if the device has operated correctly.

Circuit details required on the schedule of test results Continued from page 21

highest single-phase prospective short-circuit current measured before recording this in the space provided for it on the schedule of test results as shown in Figure 2 above.

Test 8: Tests to check on phase sequence

Regulation 612.12 requires that for polyphase circuits the phase sequence is maintained, therefore a test to ensure correct phase rotation is required on three-phase installations.

To perform this test, use either a phase rotation test instrument or a multi-function test instrument which provides this test option.

On a multi-function test instrument select the appropriate test setting before applying the test probes to the load side terminals of the main switch at the relevant distribution board or equipment, i.e. the red probe to L1, green probe to L2 and the blue probe to L3. Switch on and the test instrument will then provide an indication of the phase rotation, i.e. L1, L2, L3 or L1, L3, L2.

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The correct sequence should then be confirmed and recorded on the schedule of test results in the top left hand corner of the schedule by ticking the box phase provided for this.

Note: On some makes of phase rotation test equipment, phase rotation may simply be indicated by a display showing a rotating disc in either a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction – this type of display is most suitable for checking the correct rotation of motors and other equipment where the direction of rotation is important.

Note: General purpose RCDs should be tested as outlined in the previous technical update article on ‘Verifying the effectiveness of additional protection provided by RCDs’.

Other equipment

Regulation 612.13.2 also requires all other equipment such as switchgear and controlgear assemblies, drives, controls and interlocks to be subject to a functional test to show that it is properly mounted, adjusted and installed in accordance with BS 7671. In other words, it all operates correctly.

The outcome of this is not specifically recorded on the schedule of test results.

TO CONCLUDE This is the final technical update article in a series of seven covering the test sequence required by BS 7671: 2008+A3:2015.

The information provided is intended to supplement the SJIB candidate guidance videos produced last year which had the specific

aim of helping apprentices and adult trainees to refresh their knowledge of the subject prior to undertaking Section C of the FICA exam.

The videos are still available to view either on the SJIB website or on YouTube via this

link: http://fica.org.uk/ candidate-guidance The technical articles can either be obtained individually or collectively in electronic or paper format by simply contacting SELECT Technical Services on 0131 445 5577.

THE EASY WAY TO CATCH UP WITH CURRENT AFFAIRS ● MORE NEWS & UPDATES ● MORE EVENTS & PICTURES ● MORE TO READ & DISCOVER

www.cabletalkmagazine.com

FEATURES MAKING TAX DIGITAL

Are you ready for lift-off?

Making tax digital for VAT will become a reality in April – so before the countdown begins in earnest, it’s vital to ensure you’re ready for this massive financial shake-up

By Pauline Davidson VAT Associate Director – Scotland, BDO LLP The background

Although Making Tax Digital (MTD) for other taxes has been postponed, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has confirmed that MTD for VAT will

go ahead as planned on 1 April 2019.

As a result of this major change, any VAT return period starting on or after this date will be affected.

It means any UK VAT-registered business that makes taxable supplies in excess of the current £85,000 threshold will need to comply with MTD from this date, subject to the latest developments detailed here.

Current status – and some useful links

HMRC’s aim is for businesses to keep digital records, and for those records to be ‘digitally linked’. It also wants all VAT return figures to be submitted using something called

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an Application Programming Interface (API). HMRC is not intending to provide any API software but has published a list of third party providers.

The link can be found in the box on the right.

To help businesses get ready for MTD, HMRC has launched a pilot service for companies with up-to-date VAT affairs. It has also created a timeline setting out the planned expansion of the service over the coming months. Details of both can be found in the same box.

A soft landing

For the first year of MTD, HMRC has outlined a ‘soft landing period’ that will require businesses to keep digital records and file VAT returns using the API. During this period, HMRC has relaxed requirements as to what constitutes a ‘digital link’, as outlined in the VAT notice link. However, after 1 April 2020 it is expected that HMRC’s rules on what constitutes a digital link will be tightened.

Non-compliance with MTD requirements can lead to penalties, although it is hoped that HMRC will adopt a similar ‘soft landing’ approach to these charges, particularly if businesses are also trying to deal with the potentially massive changes to the VAT and duty regime and processes that could be triggered

by Brexit.

Action required

As MTD is now less than three months away, we recommend that, if you haven’t already, you should review your current systems to: ●●Determine where digital links may be required

●●Make a plan for the coming months, so you can comply when the requirements come into force.

The first priority will typically be to ensure an API is in place in good time for submission of the first VAT return due for the period starting on or after 1 April 2019, or 1 October 2019 where applicable, which brings us on to...

●●Those required to make payments on account and annual accounting scheme users.

The mandatory implementation date for these organisations or entities will now be

BDO has extensive experience supporting organisations through MTD implementation.

Our areas of expertise include workshops to consider current processes and identify any gaps and unbiased consideration of software providers to identify the best strategic fit.

Once the software is in place, we can also review and assess your digital links and provide advice and support to ensure they are effective and compliant.

Our review and input may also help to identify areas where your business could reduce VAT costs or risks and also help to identify any areas that could be impacted by Brexit.

SOME USEFUL LINKS ●●List of third party API providers: bit.ly/MTD-APIproviders ●●More information on MTD: bit.ly/MTD-BDO ●● HMRC VAT notice on MTD: bit.ly/mtd-notice ●●VAT preparation tool: bit.ly/mtd-selftest ●●HMRC pilot service: bit.ly/mtd-pilotservice ●●HMRC MTD timeline: bit.ly/MTD-timeline

Deferral for some organisations

HMRC has announced a six-month deferral to the start date of 1 April 2019 for certain organisations or entities with more complex requirements. However, this only applies to: ●●Trusts ●●Not-for-profit organisations not set up as a company ●●VAT divisions ●●VAT groups ●●Public sector entities required to provide additional information on their VAT, e.g. government departments and NHS Trusts ●●Local authorities ●●Public corporations ●●Traders based overseas

How we can help

As SELECT’s financial advisers, BDO is happy to help you prepare for MTD. To find out more, or if you have any questions, please email pauline.davidson@ bdo.co.uk or call 0141 249 5277.

i

1 October 2019 to allow for further testing of the software to take place. Only those entities which will have already received a letter from HMRC confirming deferment can postpone compliance.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? ●●Ensure your tax affairs are up to date. ●●Consider how your business will be affected by MTD, what processes will need to change and what you and/or your staff need



to do. Also consider the potential impact on your company resources. ●●Decide whether to input reporting information yourself, or assign responsibility to an adviser.

YES

YES

Are you VAT registered?

Is your taxable income greater than £85,000 per annum?

Compliance at this time could be mandatory

NO

NO

No action required at this time

Compliance at this time is optional

●●Change your accounting records and software package if you need to. If you’re not already using one, virtually all businesses will now need move to accounting software that

YES Are you part of a VAT group, a not-for-profit or charity that is not a company, trust or public body?

is compatible with HMRC’s systems. ●●Train staff on the new process to ensure a smooth transition and factor this into any project planning.

YES MTD has been deferred for you until 1 October 2019. But we recommend considering early compliance to take advantage of efficiency gains an accounting system could bring

NO You need to be compliant by 1 April 2019

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TRAINING FEATURES CONSTRUCTION AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT CHALLENGE

It’s Linlithgold!

By Anne Galbraith Chief Executive, SECTT

I

was honoured to be in Edinburgh recently to see Linlithgow Academy clinch first place in the annual CABEC final.

The event – which 1ST has been inspiring Scotland’s youngsters Linlithgow for 20 years – was the Academy, West culmination of a number of Lothian heats in which 300 talented S2 pupils took part from across Edinburgh and the Lothians.

The top 100 youngsters then made it to the grand final at the Corn Exchange on Thursday 17 January, which saw the following result: instructions, working safely and ●●1st – Linlithgow Academy, completing tasks.

West Lothian Feedback from the providers was ●●2nd – James Gillespie’s High consistent, and they all said they were School, Marchmont, Edinburgh impressed by the teamwork and how ●●3rd – Broxburn Academy, focused each team was.

Comments from the teachers were West Lothian Each winning team received gift also encouraging, ranging from vouchers and a cheque for their craft, “excellent, there is nothing like this anywhere else” to “this is a well-funded design and technology (CDT) and resourced event, which it’s great to department, with Linlithgow also being see so many partners supporting”. presented with a large trophy.

Another teacher said: “It’s an I was very impressed by all the youngsters, who all worked extremely excellent event, very well organised hard on the day. Each team was marked and gives great opportunities for pupils. by the challenge providers on a number We’re already looking forward to of criteria including teamwork, CABEC next year!” understanding and carrying out The pupils themselves were equally 26

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Talented students from Linlithgow Academy celebrate after clinching the top prize in the 2019 Construction and Built Environment Challenge (CABEC)

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019

enthusiastic, with their feedback ranging from “great fun” and “very informative” to “challenging, interesting, fun and exciting”.

I was also delighted that Jamie Hepburn MSP, Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills, was able to attend CHALLENGE PROVIDERS ●● Edinburgh College ●● Heriot Watt University ●● Napier University ●● Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) ●● SCRUC, Oatridge Campus ●● West Lothian College

SPONSORS ●● Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) ●● Edinburgh College

●● Electrical Education Training Foundation (EETF) ●● SELECT

MSP Jamie Hepburn (right) congratulates the winning Linlithgow team

and present the prizes to the thrilled youngsters. He said: “I was very pleased to attend the finals of the Construction and Built Environment Challenge and to meet the participating children who were hugely enthusiastic about the challenges they had been set.

●● Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF)

“I would like to congratulate SECTT and the colleges and universities in the Construction and Built Environment Challenge Group, as well as the teachers in all the participating schools.

“This competition is exactly the sort of event that gives children an idea of the tremendous possibilities there are for worthwhile and rewarding jobs in engineering and construction.”

Now in its 20th year, CABEC sees a team of local college and university staff and training providers devise and run a series of construction, engineering and building services challenges for teams of pupils aged 13 and 14.

2ND James Gillespie’s High School, Marchmont, Edinburgh

All schools in Edinburgh and the Lothians are invited to put forward a team of 10 pupils, with the aim of showing them the varied and exciting careers available at this vital stage in their education.

I was honoured to manage the challenge and source sponsorship to ensure we can continue to inspire Scotland’s school pupils for the next 20 years!

For further information about SECTT and CABEC, visit www. sectt.org.uk call 0131 445 5659 or email admin@sectt.org.uk

3RD Broxburn Academy, West Lothian CABLEtalk

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27

FEATURES SEC GROUP 25TH ANNIVERSARY

From left: Eric Rae, SELECT Immediate Past President, Alan Brown MP and Alan Wilson, SELECT Acting Managing Director

“It is crucial for our sector to continue to have its own representative body to campaign for improvement and solutions in the industry”

From left: Trevor Hursthouse OBE, Bill Esterson MP and SEC Group CEO Professor Rudi Klein

Rudi Klein welcomes guests to the reception

Political S party

By Iain Mason

SELECT joins the fun as SEC Group celebrates its 25th anniversary in style at the House of Commons 28

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ELECT joined organisations from across the UK to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ (SEC) Group.

The milestone was marked with a reception in the Strangers’ Dining Room at the House of Commons, London, on Tuesday 27 November.

Over the last 25 years, SEC Group has played an important role in providing a strong lobbying voice for the specialist engineering sector, particularly in the critical area of contractual issues.

Comprising the industry’s premier trade associations, members of SEC Group represent the largest sector of

!

!

Alan Brown MP commends SEC Group’s achievements in Scotland

From left: Trevor Hursthouse OBE, Sir Henry Bellingham MP and Lord Aberdare

UK construction in terms of value.

Speaking at the event, the Group’s Chairman, Trevor Hursthouse OBE, looked to the future of the industry, calling for the creation of a statutory authority to regulate industry practice.

He said: “In the last two years, there has been an outpouring of reports on construction – most generated by Grenfell and Carillion – which have all come to similar conclusions. Past evidence suggests that these are unlikely to lead to improvement.

“What is now required is a properly resourced regulatory authority for construction that steers the industry in the direction of best practice delivery.”

Alan Wilson, Acting Managing Director, SELECT, said: “SELECT is proud to be a part of SEC Group. It is crucial for our sector to continue to have its own representative body to campaign

for improvement and solutions in members have made to career and the industry. training opportunities for young “SEC Group continues to play a people through the expansion of the key role in providing high-level and apprenticeship programme.” coordinated representation to policy makers about the interests of the industry today and in the future.”

Read more about the SEC Group Jamie Hepburn MSP, Minister and its invaluable work at for Business, Fair Work and www.secgroup.org.uk Skills, said: “Over the years, SEC Group has grown significantly and the businesses it represents now account for 35 per cent of the construction output across the UK. “In particular, I From left: John Nelson and welcome the Trevor Hursthouse OBE commitment

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29

FOCUS RETENTION UPDATE

By Professor Rudi Klein SEC Group CEO and Barrister

W

hile the campaign for protecting cash retentions has focused on Westminster, the spotlight may now be moving to Scotland.

For some time, the Scottish Government has advised that it was awaiting developments in Westminster before doing anything itself.

Nonetheless, SEC Group Scotland and SELECT have been urging the Scottish Government to act irrespective of what happens in Westminster – which, given the overriding preoccupation with Brexit, is likely to be very little.

There are now signs that the Scottish Government has been listening to us but, before I elaborate, I’ll update you on activities at Westminster – such as they are.

Retentions Campaign at Westminster

At the time of writing, the Construction (Retention Deposit Schemes) Bill – also known as the ‘Aldous Bill’ – is still due its second reading on 25 January. However, as CABLEtalk went to press, this date was in doubt because Parliament may not be sitting on that day.

Given the lack of UK Government support for the Bill it is unlikely to progress beyond the second reading.

However, the business department in 30

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A new force enters the fray The campaign for protecting cash retentions shifts its focus north of the border as the Scottish Government hears our battle cry

London is working with representatives of the construction industry to come up with workable options that will either ensure that cash retentions are protected or, alternatively, mean that cash retentions can be abolished.

With regard to the latter, the abolition of cash retentions is preferred by the large contractors.

But they have had to acknowledge that, for abolition to be achieved, something else has to be put in place of cash retentions such as bonds; this is unlikely to get support from across the industry.

In the meantime, SEC Group has been working with financial services providers and software firms to develop a scheme to protect the monies using the latest digital

technologies. The aim is to develop a platform that will be cheap and easy to use.

The Construction Minister in London has said he is prepared to legislate provided a viable option becomes available. However, legislation is unlikely much before 2022 or 2023.

Scottish Government joins the battle

Just before Christmas, Business Minister Jamie Hepburn MSP announced that he intended to consult the industry on the best way forward.

On 18 December Hepburn said: “Having listened to the construction industry’s concerns, a public consultation on the use of retentions in construction contracts will take place in spring [2019].”

“The aim is to develop a platform that is cheap and easy to use”

This can be done quickly by requiring Tier 1 contractors to provide bank guarantees to subcontractors.

Project bank accounts

SEC Group Scotland has also been urging the Scottish Government to lower the threshold for using project bank accounts (PBAs) to bring more SMEs within the net. The threshold is currently pitched at £4.1 million for building To provide works but it is hoped this evidence or take will be lowered to £2 part in the Scottish million, as in Wales and Government Northern Ireland. consultation, please It is now possible a email alan.wilson@ lower threshold will be select.org.uk introduced before the year’s end.

The Scottish Government has engaged consultants Pye Tait to gather evidence from the industry on the use and abuse of cash retentions.

If you would like to provide evidence or partake in the consultation please get in touch with SELECT. In the meantime, Kilmarnock and Loudoun MP Alan Brown has written to the Scottish Government to ask that it institutes protection for cash retentions on all public sector works.

Public Sector Supply Chains (Project Banks Accounts) Bill

While on the subject of PBAs, an MP in the House of Commons has introduced a Private Member’s Bill to mandate the use of PBAs on public sector contracts valued above £500,000.

The Bill was prompted by SEC Group and we are currently drafting it. It will apply to cash retentions provided by subcontractors; they will be ring-fenced in the PBA. Also, disputed sums will be kept in the PBA. CABLEtalk readers will be kept posted of developments – so remember to watch this space!

BUSY YEAR AHEAD FOR SEC GROUP SCOTLAND Now that we are in 2019, it is opportune to let CABLEtalk readers know that the year is likely to be very busy.

My colleagues at SELECT, Alan Wilson and Yvonne Wilson, along with colleagues in the other trade associations in Scotland, will be working hard to ensure that we are strongly represented.

SELECT practitioners interested in the work of SEC Group Scotland are invited to get in touch with Alan or Yvonne to find out more.

Simply email: alan.wilson@select.org.uk or yvonne.wilson@select.org.uk CABLEtalk

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31

TRAINING 18TH EDITION

Driving lessons

63 courses

Our experts have been hitting the road recently, criss-crossing Scotland to deliver the first batch of 18th Edition training courses to delegates

Stornoway

J

By Jenny Cryans Training Coordinator, SELECT

anuary was a busy month for our SELECT tutors as they took to the road, delivering the first set of 18th Edition training courses to delegates across Scotland. Our team’s travels began in Ayr, Cambuslang and Aberdeen in the first week, before they held more courses in Dundee, East Kilbride and Edinburgh.

The main topic of discussion has been our Wiring Regulations course, No218, which has been produced in response to the new 18th Edition.

Members were keen to learn of any updates, so we duly dispatched our six

Inverness

Fort William

Stirling Glasgow

Cam Isle of Islay

Darren Sweeney is among the SELECT tutors hitting the road 32

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6

dedicated tutors

Irvine

East K

Shetland

756+ delegates

Elgin

mbuslang Hamilton Kilbride

Keith

Aberdeen Laurencekirk

Dundee Glenrothes Edinburgh Penicuik

20

Dumfries

locations

technical advisors – Malcolm Duncan, n As you may have noticed, we’ve given the SELECT training collateral Jim Cornwall, Mark McLaughlin, Stuart a facelift, freshening up our synopsis McKelvie, Darren Sweeney and Keith covers and certificates (above).

Hagan – to act as dedicated tutors.

In line with other printed and digital As well as the 18th Edition, our team material handed out by SELECT, we is currently busy hosting other courses, wanted to modernise things and including inspection and testing. And freshen up our collateral. The new we’ve also helped several non-Member covers are now colour-coded in line companies with their enquiries about with our different areas of training, to training, including one who asked us to help with easy identification. supply sessions for nearly 40 staff.

Our next challenge will be building There’s been a great response and testing a dedicated SELECT so far, with all the courses receiving great Training website (below), which is feedback. This enthusiasm has currently in development. been reflected in the number of courses and attendees, which Check out our have seen an encouraging rise new courses: compared to previous years.

Pages 34&35 As CABLEtalk went to press, we had 49 wiring regulations courses alone scheduled for the first quarter of 2019, compared to just eight at the same time last year. We estimate we’ll be delivering 63 BS 7671 courses by the end of March, with an average of 12 delegates per session – so that’s a total audience of around 756 people who will benefit from our knowledge and advice.

We’ve now scheduled more courses in the Shetlands, Islay, Dumfries, Irvine and Inverness, as well as Penicuik. And we’ll even be heading up to Stornoway in the spring, as well as any other areas where there’s demand.

For more information, or to book a place, call the Training team on 0131 445 5577.

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33

TRAINING NEW COURSES

Dealing with the

bur ing issues A new range of courses in fire and security are now available to SELECT Members, thanks to a partnership with New College Lanarkshire. The five-day sessions are part of a range of training currently being offered in a wide range of disciplines

By Iain Mason CABLETalk, Editor

S

ELECT has teamed up with New College Lanarkshire (NCL) to deliver a new range of short one-week courses in fire and security.

Access Control Design & Installation (with NCL)

34

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The partnership allows SELECT Members to choose from five courses, each running over five days at NCL’s Motherwell campus, starting on either 1 April or 8 April.

Four of the courses cover the design and installation of the following separate disciplines: ●●Access control

Fire Alarms Design & Installation (with NCL)

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019

●●Fire alarms ●●Intruder alarms ●●CCTV In addition, a Commissioning course covers the testing, handover and commissioning of electronic fire and security systems to relevant industry standards.

David Scott, Curriculum

Intruder Alarms Design & Installation (with NCL)

CCTV Design & Installation (with NCL)

& Quality Leader for Built Environment at NCL, said: “These courses provide an excellent opportunity for those already in the industry to upskill, retrain and gain an important qualification.”

Each course costs £525 and is a mix of practical and theory, with a final assessment on the fifth day.

Successful delegates receive an SQA certificate.

David added: “Each course takes you through the whole journey of an installation, from the design and surveying to planning and choosing materials and equipment.

It then takes you through

Fire and Security Commissioning (with NCL)

The Electrical Site Safety Assessment (TESSA)

installation processes and procedures, and the relevant standards that are required.

“Although the courses only last five days, each one is very intense, so you’ll leave with plenty of practical knowledge.”

New SELECT courses

As well as the fire and security courses at NCL, SELECT is also running a range of new training sessions, ranging from site safety to modern solar energy systems.

The first of these is The Electrotechnical Site Safety Assessment (TESSA), a new SQA accredited course developed on behalf of, and in conjunction with, the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB).

Designed for those working on construction sites, it covers health and safety and a knowledge of the qualifications, structures and regulations involved in electrical work.

Jenny Cryans, SELECT Training Coordinator, said:

EV Charging Point Installation & Maintenance

(with WCS, No324)

Energy Storage Systems

“We’ll be running pilot courses in March, with a view to launching courses in April.”

Another upcoming course in energy storage systems (No415), will introduce Members to the basics of solar PV design.

Run in conjunction with West College Scotland (WCS), it covers thermal energy storage and full system operation.

And as revealed in previous issues of CABLEtalk, SELECT is also working with WCS to deliver a monthly course (No324) on electric vehicle charging point installation and maintenance. This includes the planning, design and testing of both domestic and commercial equipment.

For further information about the fire and security short courses at NCL, email David at David.Scott@nclan.ac.uk or see www.nclanarkshire.ac.uk

(with WCS, No415)

To find out more about the other SELECT courses, email Jenny Cryans at jenny. cryans@select. org.uk

Department is going digital To help reduce the amount of paper being handed out on selected courses, the Training department will now be providing delegates with memory sticks instead of printed materials.

From January onwards, all participants on our Requirements for Electrical Installation courses, No218, will be given sticks containing useful training information and guides.

The first sticks were given to delegates on our 18th Edition training courses, and were packed with helpful information from both SELECT and the British Electrical and Allied Manufacturers Association (BEAMA). This digital information included: ●●SELECT guide to 18th Edition changes ●●SELECT guide to BS 7671:2018 certificates ●●SELECT guide to electrical safety checks in the private rental sector ●●SELECT advice on installation of cables CABLEtalk

concealed in structures ●●SELECT advice on electrical installations in locations containing a bath or shower ●●BEAMA guide to surge protection devices ●●BEAMA guide to arc fault detection devices ●●BEAMA safety checklist ●●BEAMA RCD handbook ●●BEAMA technical bulletin: RCD selection.

SELECT Training Coordinator Jenny Cryans said: “Looking at the first quarter of this year, we’re running 49 wiring regulation courses for around 588 delegates. If each one was given 10 printed leaflets or brochures, it would add up to a lot of paper.

“So going forward, we’re putting all the course information on memory sticks instead. We’re starting with the wiring regulations course, and eventually aim to roll it out across the majority of our courses as we update out materials.”

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019

35

SIMPRO SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Making every part count For many businesses, there’s one recurring issue that prompts the leap from paper and spreadsheets to software. Managing stock often means losing money, wasting time tracking down parts and unnecessary visits to suppliers. simPRO efficiently monitors the value, quantity and location of stock.

Every part accounted for As a business grows, the volume of jobs increase. More jobs mean more parts. What about the price for those parts? Are they accurate?

This is where a simPRO sets itself apart from smaller, more basic job management systems.

Manage stock accurately and profitably Importing supplier catalogues with accurate pricing means parts are quickly identified and

assigned to a quote or job.

Parts not in stock can be ordered and the purchase order created. When parts are delivered, the order can be receipted in simPRO and stock is automatically assigned to the relevant job and engineer ready for the job to be carried out.

On-the-job ordering Additional parts used often don’t get assigned to the job and invoiced. Not only does this mean the stock doesn’t get charged, but the profitability on the job looks much better than it really is. Using simPRO’s mobile app, engineers can easily add stock items to jobs from the field before it’s invoiced.

With complete control of your stock, simPRO can quickly start to pay for itself.

To find out more, simply visit simpro.co.uk or call 0800 622 6376.

PRODUCT SHOWCASE Our guide to the latest 1 ALWAYS GET THE BALANCE RIGHT WITH HULTAFORS MINI POCKET SPIRIT LEVELS It’s always been Hultafors Tools’ vision to give professional tradesmen and women the best quality tools for optimal on-site performance.

Now it’s done it again with its new Mini Pocket spirit levels, which come complete with a modern design for carrying out levelling work in tight spaces.

The new clear-focus vial is part of its range of best-in-class levelling and marking equipment.

The ergonomic design includes a crush-proof vial with a +60 per cent magnifying effect, and also features a luminescent effect for easy reading in both light or dark conditions.

There’s also a strong protective casing and a magnetic version – ideal for accurate vertical measuring.

Both new models look great

and, added to the other products in the Hultafors’ range, means there’s something to suit every conceivable levelling requirement.

To find out more about the Hultafors Tools range of spirit levels, call the company’s helpline on 01484 854 788. Alternatively, download a digital catalogue at www.hultafors.co.uk

3 KLEIN TOOLS LAUNCHES ITS NEW RANGE OF USB TESTERS Klein Tools has launched a range of USB meters and testers, providing installers with the professional tools they need to monitor the performance of USB charging ports.

The range is thought to be the first branded equipment of its kind in the UK. It meets a growing demand for test and measuring equipment for USB sockets, which are increasingly fitted in a variety of locations from homes and cafes to hotels and student accommodation.

The Klein Tools USB test range includes three variations – the

ET900, ET910 and the ET920. The compact ET900 measures USB-A power delivery devices, the ET910 tests and measures

CONTACT OUR TEAM TO SHOWCASE YOUR GREAT NEW PRODUCTS HERE 36

CABLEtalk

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

electrical solutions 2 NEW MARTINDALE LEAKAGE CLAMP MEASURES UP TO THE 18TH EDITION Ever had a problem with nuisance RCD tripping?

The 18th Edition Wiring Regulations and the latest leakage current clamp meter from Martindale Electric, the CM69, come to the rescue.

Selecting the right leakage clamp meter is critical to getting reliable and repeatable results as

many struggle below 10mA and can be prone to interference from other nearby conductors.

The Martindale CM69 measures currents from 0.1mA to 60A with a resolution down to 0.001mA and includes essential multimeter functions.

For further information, visit www.martindale-electric.co.uk

USB-A ports and their maximum current output, and the ET920 measures USB-A and USB-C connectors.

The equipment

is suitable for troubleshooting a range of USB ports, including wall sockets, car chargers, portable power banks and ports with charging capabilities.

Using the test meters is intuitive, installers simply plug and play. Insert the cables into the USB port to be tested and the unit will continuously monitor up to 1,000 hours of voltage (3-20V DC), current (0.5-3A), capacity/ charge delivered, energy and resistance (calculated). It detects voltage and current overloads.

Test measurements can be read off the high-resolution back-lit LCD display with up to 10 data readings stored on the unit.

Testers don’t need batteries as they draw power from the USB port being monitored or tested.

Visit www.kleintools.eu

David Hughes: 0131 561 0022 davidh@connectcommunications.co.uk

Living wills: Protecting the public sector against service provider collapse?

By Sarah Pengelly Senior Associate in Construction, MacRoberts LLP In November 2018, the Cabinet Office set out a plan it hoped would allow public bodies to be prepared in the event of supplier failure.

This came on the back of Carillion’s collapse, which left public bodies trying to work out what to do to ensure continuity of services and supplies. Although most contracts provide for assignation and step-in, there are suggestions the Government was left on the back foot after Carillion.

So after Interserve’s share price hit a low between Christmas and New Year – although it’s crept back up since – it was reported that the company was among those that had volunteered to create ‘living wills’.

The idea is for suppliers and service providers to prepare contingency plans to be implemented in the event of failure, to allow public services to continue and smooth the transition process. This could cover running the contract and organisational information, to allow another provider to take over provision of the services without disruption.

They could go so far as to have a fallback supplier with project knowledge, ready to CABLEtalk

take over, although it is unlikely an incumbent would want to provide a competitor with the know-how to take on this role.

We may see drafting requirements in new contracts, setting out what plans should cover, when they should be updated, who can trigger them and in what circumstances.

It is possible a sign of financial difficulty may have a legitimate explanation.

Public sector bodies shouldn’t jump to conclusions, as triggering the contingency plan could cause more problems if the company was not in financial trouble. What would happen if the public sector’s analysis of the situation is incorrect – would the supplier or service provider have any redress?

In conclusion, it is not clear that having these plans in place will reduce risks for the public sector – although they may well ease the pain of service disruption.

● MacRoberts advises on payment disputes arising from construction contracts.

Email sarah.pengelly@ macroberts.com or call 0141 303 1100.

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DIARY MEMBERS / EVENTS / COMPETITION GETTING TO KNOW YOU

Natalie Burke SELECT Membership Manager Hello Natalie. How long have you been at SELECT? I’ve been at the Walled Garden five years now.

What were you doing before you joined SELECT? Tell us a bit about your background…

I was working as a payroll administrator in Edinburgh.

Job security wasn’t great so I decided to start a temp role until finding something more permanent that I enjoyed. I began temping here and five years later, here I am!

So what exactly does your job entail? Tell us a bit more about what you do…

As well as managing the membership reps and admin team, my main responsibility, along with my team, is ensuring we provide the best service possible to Members through our communication with them and the Member services that we provide. As well as this, I regularly deal with prospective Member enquiries, applications, planning and organising branch activities, attending

LOCAL EVENTS Edinburgh & South East of Scotland Branch Update & AGM Tuesday 5 March Inverness & North of Scotland Branch Update & AGM, Thursday 7 March 38

CABLEtalk

Quickfire Questions Cheese or chocolate?

Chocolate First car?

VW Polo Dog or cat person?

Both (I have both) Favourite film?

One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest Favourite TV show?

Grey’s Anatomy Favourite holiday spot?

Florida Dream date?

Tom Hardy One thing people might not know about you?

I love sharks and plan on doing a dive with great whites in the next few years

Lanarkshire Branch Update & AGM Tuesday 12 March Ayrshire Branch Update & AGM, Thursday 14 March Glasgow & West of Scotland Branch Update & AGM Tuesday 19 March

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019

Branch Updates and Toolbox Talks and also dealing with members of the public who are seeking to use a SELECT Member.

What’s a typical day like for you at work?

Tell us about some of the things you do in an average day?

I’ve just started my new role so I’m still sussing that out.

However, so far it has been supervising all aspects of membership, ensuring membership enquiries and queries from prospective and existing Members are dealt with in a timely manner, processing applications to SELECT, helping members of the public find SELECT Members in their area and also producing regular reports.

I think in my new role, my days will become even more diverse and will involve meeting more Members.

Do you get the chance to meet SELECT Members?

I do, at Branch Updates and Toolbox Talks. However, I will

ARCH AN 28 M B E R M

AG SID TAY DATE & UP

get the opportunity to do this more often with my new role.

I hope to go to more of these events, do Member visits with the reps and go along to more Member drop-in sessions.

What do you know now that you didn’t before working at SELECT? Did you know much about the industry before?

I’ll be honest – I didn’t have a clue about SELECT or anything to do with the electrical industry before working here so I’ve learned a lot. However, I did assume that anyone calling themselves an electrician would have to be qualified which I’ve since found out is absolutely not the case. Hopefully we get regulation ASAP. What’s the most enjoyable thing about your job?

The variety and the events we run that give us the chance to meet our Members. And of course working with my team! l Email Natalie on natalie. burke@select.org.uk or call her on 0131 445 5577.

Aberdeen & North East of Scotland Branch Update & AGM Thursday 21 March Dumfries & Galloway Branch Update & AGM Tuesday 26 March Tayside Branch Update & AGM, Thursday 28 March

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DANIEL DAY LEWIS

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In association with MacRoberts LLP, here’s the chance to win £50 of Amazon vouchers with our Oscars wordsearch. Find the words listed on the right, take a pic of your finished grid and email it to memberservices@select.org.uk by 31 March 2018. Or cut it out and send it to: Wordsearch, SELECT, The Walled Garden, Bush Estate, Midlothian EH26 0SB. Winner drawn at random. T&Cs are online.

NATIONAL EVENTS Bristol Sound & Vision Show, Bristol Marriott Hotel City Centre. A festival of home entertainment technology, with all the latest gizmos.

22-24 February

Telford Smart Grid Expo, Alexandra Palace. The latest smart energy products, technologies and services.

28 March London Exclusively Electrical Trade Show, Business Design Centre. Fantastic line-up of

the top small domestic appliance suppliers and brands.

11-12 June

2-3T O C C I T Y,

R NT EVE HESTE C N A M

Manchester Northern Manufacturing & Electronics, Event City.

The latest manufacturing technology.

2-3 October CABLEtalk

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019

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