CABLEtalk April/May 2020

April/May 2020 £4.50

Staying strong in a crisis Our guide to steering your business through the coronavirus outbreak 06 SELECT support for Members continues / 07 Invaluable new commercial guidance / 16 The outbreak and its impact on contracts / 19 Help with mental health

CONTENTS APRIL/MAY 2020 OPINION

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Alan Wilson on how SELECT can help during the coronavirus crisis

NEWS CORONAVIRUS

16

Read our four-page guide to surviving the COVID-19 pandemic

TECHNICAL

26

All you need to know about the 18th Edition Amendment

FOCUS

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Marking International Workers’ Memorial Day

06

Find out how we’re supporting Members during the pandemic

08

New office bearers elected at Branch Updates and AGMs

10

SELECT has its say in the debate over the future of retentions

12

High-tech hub providing even more health and safety benefits

14

Discover some of the work we’ve been doing on Members’ behalf

APPRENTICES

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Politicians show their support for Scottish Apprenticeship Week

TRAINING

30 33

New course launched covering emergency lighting essentials

FOCUS

APPRENTICES

24

We catch up with the latest class of Effective Manager students

Inspiring film celebrates the rise of female apprentices

MANAGING EDITOR Iain Mason iain.mason@select.org.uk EDITOR Sarah Wolstencroft sarah.w@connectcommunications.co.uk 0141 560 3022

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

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Ryan Swinney ryan@connectcommunications.co.uk

CABLEtalk is produced by Connect Publications on behalf of SELECT connectcommunications.co.uk

34

Len Bunton gives his advice on preventing cashflow problems

38

Shattering the myths around public sector procurement

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

40

All the latest gadgets and gear to make your working life easier

DIARY

42

Meet Linda Rolfe in our latest Getting to Know You feature CABLEtalk

APRIL/MAY 2020

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COMMENT

Supporting you in testing times

A

lmost all of us are experiencing a situation which we could barely ever imagine.

Having worked in the construction industry for nearly 40 years myself, I am used to seeing the ups and downs of recessions, labour shortages etc.

But this current crisis is putting us all to the test.

As this crisis develops I wanted to advise what SELECT will be doing to assist Members and the broader industry in these difficult times.

Help and guidance

All SELECT staff are now working from home, however this will not affect the services we provide. One of the most important things we can do at the moment is to provide help and guidance. We have therefore set up a specific information webpage on our website – www. select.org.uk/selecthelp-covid-19pandemic – that will be updated daily.

Contacting SELECT

We will still be able to deal with all calls made to our main switchboard. We have added a list of email and telephone contacts to

“One of the most important things we can do at the moment is to provide help and guidance” the website and you can use our main email address – admin@select.org.uk – if you want to get in touch. You can also follow and contact us via our other social media platforms – Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Our teams of Membership Representatives and Technical Advisors are also available and they will also be contacting Members on a regular basis to update you and to get feedback from you so that SELECT is aware of the issues affecting your business.

Working on your behalf

We have set up a pan-industry group, the Construction Industry

Coronavirus Forum, which includes all of the main trade and professional bodies in Scotland. This group will be meeting twice a week to gather intelligence and information. The group has already been in touch with Scottish Government on a number of issues and we have been asked to speak with the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Fair Work and Culture, Fiona Hyslop, to update her on issues raised by Members of the relevant trade bodies. You can read more about this on our website.

This group has also set up an online survey to capture information which again will be used in our dialogue with Scottish Government. Details are on our website.

SELECT events

All training courses, technical assessments, Branch Updates and Member visits are currently postponed. This year’s Toolbox Talks events have also been cancelled, although we will make the technical presentations available online and in alternate formats in the near future.

In the meantime, please check our website above regularly, speak to your SELECT contacts and keep safe as work our way through this situation.

Alan Wilson Managing Director, SELECT CABLEtalk

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NEWS CORONAVIRUS FIGHTING FOR ACTION To help Members’ interests during the COVID-19 crisis, SELECT has joined 15 other leading bodies to form the Construction Industry Coronavirus Forum, pressing the Scottish Government to take action, help with cashflow and protect jobs.

The Forum – which represents the majority of contractor business in Scotland – has sent a letter to Fiona Hyslop, Secretary for Economy, Fair Work and Culture, urging her to support the Scottish construction sector. Members can also assist by lobbying their MSPs for their support.

In its hard-hitting letter, the group says: “What we need the Scottish Government to do, in this unprecedented time, is to use its influence with clients to ask that payments are accelerated as quickly as possible to ensure that the flow of cash will continue.

“It is also vital that clients ensure that payment must be cascaded down the supply chain to ensure that everyone who is legitimately due cash is paid more quickly.

We would also request that all public sector clients immediately release any retentions due to boost cashflow in the sector.”

The Forum is also asking the government to allow public sector clients to: ● Suspend the use of open tenders ● Use the Quick Quote method of tendering where possible ● Ask public sector clients to provide clarity on existing contracts and on the contractual position regarding delays ● Keep the momentum going to ensure the industry survives.

Alan Wilson said: “If our industry is to survive this crisis, it is vital that government and public sector clients continue to procure a steady pipeline of work. We would urge the government to relax procurement rules and procedures in the short term to help industry and public sector clients overcome the inevitable issues all employers will face.”

The other members of the Forum include the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbers’ Federation, the Civil Engineering Contractors Association, the Scottish Building Federation, the Federation of Master Builders, the Lift and Escalator Industry Association, the Building Engineering Services Association, the Scaffolding Association, the Stone Federation and the National Federation of Roofing Contractors.

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SELECT delivers vital help to Members during crisis Service not affected, with ongoing information and guidance offered ● Online updates set up as association lobbies for cashflow and jobs ● Digital technical updates will replace cancelled Toolbox Talk events ●

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ELECT will continue to offer essential help and guidance to Members throughout the coronavirus outbreak, delivering regular updates and information and lobbying the Scottish Government to protect contractors’ livelihoods. The Walled Garden shut

on Wednesday 25 March, with all staff now working from home. In addition, all technical assessments, training courses, drop-in sessions, Member visits and Branch Updates have been suspended, with Toolbox Talks 2020 cancelled.

However, SELECT Managing Director Alan Wilson insisted SELECT would continue to offer the best possible service

READ OUR DAILY COVID-19 UPDATES AT select.org.uk

“We will continue to offer the same level of support and guidance to Members, as well as lobbying hard behind the scenes to help with cashflow and protect jobs” and do everything to help Members through this difficult time. He said: “Although SELECT HQ is now shut, we will continue to offer the same level of support and guidance to Members, as well as lobbying hard behind the scenes to help with cashflow and protect jobs.

“One of the most important things we can do is provide information and guidance, and that’s what we’ll continue to do. Our main switchboard will still be able to deal with all calls and Members should continue to contact us as usual.”

A dedicated COVID-19 section has been created on our website, select.org. uk, that will feature advice, helpful links, and daily updates throughout the crisis.

We will also be issuing regular updates on our social media channels.

This year’s Toolbox Talks in May and June have been cancelled, with the scheduled presentations on EV charging and EICR coding to be made

BESA welcomes tax reforms delay The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) was among the construction bodies who welcomed the UK Government’s decision to delay the start date for IR35. In response to

available online later. The President’s Cup golf day in May has also been cancelled. Stationery orders have been suspended until further notice.

Anyone booked on a SELECT course will have the option of a full refund if they request it. Please speak to the Training team on 0131 445 5577 for details.

The operators of our SELECTcerts scheme, Computer Scene, have also adopted a work from home policy, with the best form of support contact via email at select@csnet.co.uk Alan added: “We have taken these measures in line with government directives, with the sole priority of keeping staff and Members safe.

“Our Member Representatives and Technical Advisers will be available as usual, our Technical Helpline is still operational, and the Employment Affairs team is on hand to answer queries at this unprecedented time.”

the ongoing spread of coronavirus, the government announced that the new off-payroll tax reforms, which were due to be extended to medium and large businesses in the private sector in April 2020, will now be deferred until 6 April 2021 to help

businesses and individuals.

Paula Samuels, BESA Head of Employment Affairs, said: “This is a welcome reprieve for our members, many of whom are already suffering the effects from the financial and economic fall-out of coronavirus.”

FURTHER ADVICE As well as our legal helpline, further support is now available for Members who are concerned about legal and contractual issues. Put together in conjunction with a number of industry experts, the service involves an initial consultation which is free for all Members up to 20 minutes. Assistance will cover the following issues: ● Delays in the completion of ongoing contracts ● Cancellation of projects ● Difficulties in making or receiving payments ● Issues with the supply and delivery of goods ● Suspension of contracts ● Formal extension of time and loss and expense notices.

All enquiries should be directed to Len Bunton on 07769 670 089 or 01786 880 751, or by email at len@buntonconsulting.co.uk.

Please copy any email communications to yvonne.wilson@select.org.uk so we can track Member issues.

HELPLINES Technical Advice Helpline: 0131 445 5577 or email technicalhelp@select.org.uk Health & Safety Helpline (BSG): 0300 304 9099 Employment Advice Helpline: 0131 445 9216 Legal Helpline (MacRoberts): 0141 303 1111 Commercial Support (Len Bunton): 07769 670 089 Main switchboard: 0131 445 5577 or email admin@select.org.uk

Commercial contract advice: Pages 16-19 Emotional and mental health: Page 19 CABLEtalk

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NEWS SELECT The Walled Garden, Bush Estate, Midlothian EH26 0SB Tel: 0131 445 5577 Fax: 0131 445 5548 admin@select.org.uk

Follow SELECT online at: TWITTER @Updates_SELECT @Training_SELECT @Regulate_SELECT FACEBOOK SELECT.TheECAofS

Visit our websites at:

select.org.uk select.org.uk/training cabletalkmagazine.com selectawards.co.uk

Please phone our membership team on 0131 445 5577 to apply to become a Member of SELECT or if you would like more information about joining.

Branches welcome their new office bearers New office bearers have been elected at the four SELECT Branch Updates and AGMs that went ahead before the coronavirus shutdown.

Craig McGowan was voted in as new Chair of the Lanarkshire Branch, taking over from current SELECT Vice-President Donald W Orr. Paul Smith was elected as Vice-Chair and Chris Liddell as third representative during the update and AGM at Hamilton Park Racecourse on 10 March.

At the Edinburgh and South East of Scotland Branch Update and AGM at the Buccleuch Arms in St Boswells on 3 March, Graeme Anderson remained as Chair, with Paul Erasmuson becoming the new Vice-Chair. Alistair Noble stayed as third representative and Craig Neish was added as fourth representative.

The Inverness and North of Scotland Branch Update and AGM at The Mansefield Hotel in Elgin on 10 March saw Alistair Grant remain as Chair, with

Member’s firm put up for sale A SELECT Member has put his business up for sale as he prepares to retire.

The 32-year-old firm has ongoing contracts and a

Alternatively you can email us on memberservices@select.org.uk or submit an online enquiry.

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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NEW MEMBERS

MiSafe –Glasgow & West of Scotland Oliver Integrated Ltd – Lanarkshire Electrical Project Solutions – Tayside Electrical Testing Contractors – Ayrshire Pilley Electrical Services Ltd – Edinburgh & South East Scotland GSB Electrical Services – Tayside Corrigan Contractors Ltd – Inverness & North of Scotland

APRIL/MAY 2020

Donnie Calder also staying on as Vice-Chair. At the final Branch Update, held at The Gailes Hotel in Irvine on 12 March, it was agreed that Jim Cooper and Chic Dobbie would remain as Chair and Vice-Chair respectively of the Ayrshire Branch.

diverse client base including domestic, commercial and agricultural work. Working across Central Scotland, it has an annual turnover of around £200,000 and uses one directly employed electrician and one who is self-employed. Offers of

Seven firms have become SELECT Members since 1 February 2020 CABLEtalk is the official magazine of SELECT and is distributed free to qualifying readers.

Craig McGowan and Donald W Orr at the Lanarkshire Branch Update

£30,000 are invited, with the buyer receiving a handover and introductions to major clients, including Stagecoach.

No premises are included.

Email mike.proudfoot@ btconnect.com or call Mike Proudfoot on 07850 091 542.

SELECT: More should be done to inspire the next generation of female electricians SELECT has joined with other respected industry bodies to hail a rise in female apprentices and say more should be done to encourage other young women to pick up the tools.

Along with the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB), the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) and Unite the Union, SELECT welcomed new figures which showed that 13 female apprentices applied to be electricians in 2019-2020, compared to seven in 2018-2019.

Fiona Harper, Director of Employment and Skills at SELECT, said: “It’s heartening to see more young women than ever

Inspections service maintains UKAS accreditation for the 22nd year running

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ELECT has once again successfully renewed accreditation with the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) for its inspection activities.

Accreditation against the internationally recognised standard for inspection bodies ISO/IEC 17020:2012 means SELECT continues to be officially recognised for the quality of its electrical installation inspection service.

In order for accreditation to be maintained, SELECT has been subject to rigorous annual assessment by UKAS since first attaining accredited status in 1998.

Dave Forrester, Director of Technical Services at SELECT, said: “Being UKAS accredited is extremely important to us, our Members and the wider public.

“Holding UKAS accredited status is a key part of our inspection work and brings great confidence

Malcolm Duncan

to consumers and the wider industry.

It demonstrates that our Technical Advisers have proved their competence to carry out low voltage electrical installation inspections safely, impartially and to the highest possible standard.”

This year’s UKAS assessment was coordinated by Malcolm Duncan, Training and Development Adviser and Quality Assurance Manager at SELECT. Malcolm said: “Regular periodic inspection by skilled personnel is essential for the integrity of any electrical installation throughout the course of its life. Having UKAS accreditation provides confidence that these inspections have been considered properly.

“Using a UKAS accredited

applying for electrical apprenticeships in Scotland. The rise of renewables is making our industry more attractive to would-be electricians of both genders, so it is now up to all of us to tap into this enthusiasm and ensure we keep a pipeline of talent – both male and female – coming through.”

Fiona, who is also The Secretary of the SJIB, added: “It’s also heartening to see that all these women are there on merit. Like all apprentices, they were required to pass an assessment before they were accepted onto the apprenticeship programme, and each demonstrated the aptitude and competence to do so. There is clearly a growing realisation among young women that being an electrical professional is a viable career.”

Anne Galbraith, CEO of SECTT, echoed Fiona’s enthusiasm for the rising number of female apprentices, saying: “These figures are

inspection body like SELECT helps consumers reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, improves productivity and also sends the right message about maintaining best practice, professionalism and integrity.”

UKAS is the only national accreditation body in the UK which is recognised by the government to assess, against internationally agreed standards, organisations that provide certification, testing, inspection and calibration services.

Accreditation provides assurance of the consistency and quality of the inspections performed by competent organisations and consequently gives the consumer greater confidence in the safety of their environment.

Wisdom Gasu, Assessment Manager at UKAS, said: “Congratulations to everyone at SELECT for maintaining its accredited status for 22 years.

“Accreditation assessments are continuous, rigorous and impartial processes. Users of UKAS accredited services can therefore have confidence in both an organised management system and the independence and technical competence of a UKAS accredited organisation to deliver those accredited services.”

For further information about UKAS and the importance of UKAS accreditation, please go to www.ukas.com

VIDEO PUTS FEMALE APPRENTICES IN THE FRAME: Pages 24 & 25

extremely encouraging and show a definite upward trend in women wanting to become electricians. It is a testament to the hard work of the SJIB and SECTT that these young women are now succeeding in their apprenticeships and are working side-by-side with their male counterparts.

However, there needs to be a concerted effort to attract even more women to take up this extremely rewarding career.”

Unite the Union claimed the Scottish Government should do more to encourage young women to take up electrical apprenticeships.

Scott Foley, Regional Officer for Unite the Union, said: “Seeing the rise in female apprentices is encouraging – but just think what could be achieved if Holyrood encouraged our young women to do so. We know there is an untapped seam of female talent out there .”

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NEWS INDUSTRY

SELECT has its say in retentions debate Association responds to Scottish Government consultation ● Calls for ring-fenced deposit scheme to protect small firms ● Businesses ‘should be selected on competence, not price’ ●

Scheme aims to brings quicker end to disputes A new scheme that aims to make adjudicating payment disputes quicker and easier has been launched by the Construction Industries Council (CIC).

Introduced on 18 March, the Low Value Disputes Model Adjudication Procedure is designed to be introduced into subcontracts to avoid delays and frustration.

Under the UK-wide scheme, an adjudicator’s decision must be issued no later than 28 days from the submission of the referral. This adjudication is based on documents only, unless the adjudicator decides a meeting or site visit is necessary.

Adjudicator costs are fixed depending on the claim value, with the adjudicator deciding who is liable for the fee. Both sides will also be liable for their own costs of the adjudication.

Len Bunton of the SEC Group Scotland said: “There have been serious concerns about the cost of adjudication and adjudicator fees for a long time, so this is good news for the supply chain.”

Details of the new procedure can be downloaded from the CIC website at www.cic.co.uk

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Len Bunton’s column: Pages 34&35

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ELECT has added its influential voice to the Scottish Government’s consultation on the use of cash retentions in construction.

In a detailed response on the practice, we firmly stated our long-held view that Holyrood should introduce a statutory obligation to place cash retentions in a ring-fenced retention deposit scheme.

Cash retentions are deducted from due payments, ostensibly as security in case a firm fails to return to remedy non-compliant work.

In practice, the monies – which belong to the firms from whom they have been withheld – are often used to bolster the cashflow of clients and Tier 1 contractors.

In our response to the consultation – which has been extended to 13 May – SELECT said: “We must aim to bring all value contracts within scope of our proposed deposit scheme so that small businesses which bear the brunt of retentions abuse are protected.

“A suggestion to place a cap on the value of contracts subject to the scheme, or any other type of cap,

could exclude the very firms that require most protection.”

In our response, we also listed the many benefits of a ring-fenced scheme backed by adjudication: ● Monies ring-fenced in the scheme can provide collateral for borrowing, thus increasing liquidity for SMEs ● Disputes over the release of cash retentions will be resolved quickly, since neither party has control over the monies ● Since retention monies will not be available to be used and abused, the demand for cash retentions is likely to be reduced, thus placing a greater focus on selecting competent firms.

Our statement added: “We must change procurement strategies so the supply chain is involved in the design process from the outset to reduce the incidence of defects. Furthermore, firms should be selected on their demonstration of competence rather than on their ability to offer lowest price. Until the procurement process is altered, these issues will remain in

Most public sector jobs ‘still paid alarmingly late’ The latest quarterly sector-wide Building Engineering Business Survey shows that payment conditions in the industry remain poor, with the majority of public sector work being paid for after more than 30 days.

The survey, which included data from SELECT and other leading industry trade bodies ECA, BESA and SNIPEF, found that, in Q4 2019, 65% of direct public sector and 84% of indirect public sector jobs were paid for after more than 30 days.

Around half (49%) of respondents said that, in their organisation’s public sector work, clients typically inserted under-30day payment clauses. Ensuring payment within this timeframe is mandated under Alan Wilson

New training brochure for courses

the industry.” Working in partnership with the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ (SEC) Group, SELECT has been lobbying MSPs for support for legislation on retentions, which both organisations say are particularly harmful to smaller companies.

SELECT Managing Director Alan Wilson, who is also National Executive Officer of SEC Group Scotland, said: “Most of the criticisms of the current public sector payment rules. In addition to consistent late payment, the survey, sponsored by Scolmore, also showed that almost two-thirds of respondents (64%) were facing cash retentions.

Alan Wilson, SELECT Managing Director, said: “These findings come as no surprise as we know from Member feedback that late and withheld payments are a major issue. Added to that are the delays Members face in the release of retentions which continue to cause problems for businesses up and down Scotland.

“SELECT and SEC Group Scotland have been carrying out extensive lobbying among members of the Scottish Parliament to encourage them to support legislation to ring-fence retention monies.

This culminated in the recent Scottish Government consultation that both

retention system would be addressed by placing cash retentions in a protected and separate location.

“This should be accompanied by a fast-track and inexpensive adjudication procedure to resolve disputes over the release of retentions.

“Taken together, these measures would substantially reduce the incidence of late and non-payment of retentions.”

SELECT and its Members participated in.

“Our message is clear: Cash retentions must be put in a ring-fenced account or scheme. In this way we are more likely to see the end of a 200-year-old measure that’s been abused to the detriment of small firms which often wait years to get retentions released.”

In spite of late payments, sector growth overall appears to have remained steady in the fourth quarter of 2019.

Reported actual turnover stayed the same or increased for three quarters (75%) of respondents versus Q3 2019. Turnover decreased for one quarter (25%) of respondents.

The survey received 489 responses from companies across the multi-billion-pound industry, mainly regarding their performance in Q4 2019 (1 October to 31 December 2019).

SELECT has produced a new training brochure, with an updated list of courses that will be offered when the current situation returns to normal.

The 32-page leaflet provides details of more than 20 courses, seminars and programmes, with topics ranging from BS 76171 and Scottish Building Standards to fire alarms and safe isolation. It also offers an overview of SELECT’s many associated services, including in-house training, room hire and partnerships with third party training providers.

Training Manager Jenny Cryans said: “Although courses are currently suspended due to coronavirus, when we return we will continue to offer a wide range of training.” A digital brochure can be downloaded at bit.ly/SELECT_Training_Brochure TENDERING WEBINAR The seminar planned for SELECT Members by SDP Scotland on 23 April has been cancelled. The Supplier Development Programme is offering a webinar about tendering on 21 May for SELECT Members. Simply register at www.sdpscotland.co.uk/events-12 to take part.

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NEWS SELECT

REGISTER TODAY AT bit.ly/bsg-registration

New BSG Hub puts even more health and safety benefits at Members’ fingertips

Online COSHH assessments and method statements now added ● Enjoy access to BSG helpline and hundreds of helpful documents ●

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DOWNLOAD OUR USER GUIDE AT bit.ly/ SELECT-Hub-Guide

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embers can now carry out online COSHH assessments and method statements quickly and easily as SELECT continues to expand its range of benefits with a new high-tech hub.

The new service is provided through our partnership with the Building Safety Group (BSG), and follows the success of the group’s online risk assessment offering with SELECT. As well as the

expanded risk assessment and method statements (RAMS), Members can now access a dedicated health and safety technical support line as well as more than 200 online health and safety documents, including Model Health & Safety Policy and Model Fire Risk Assessments.

The increased range of services are on a new web-based facility, which has been branded the ‘BSG Hub’.

Dave Forrester, Director of Technical Services at SELECT, said: “This new Hub is another fantastic tool from BSG and offers even more ways to help our Members.

“If they haven’t done so already, we would recommend Members everywhere to sign up to the Hub and take advantage of its many benefits. It’s easy to use and flexible enough to be used across a wide range of different projects and scenarios.”

John Puck, Membership Development Officer at BSG, said: “The new Hub provides companies with a one-stopshop where they can access a variety of functionality from just one screen.

“In addition to the RAMS, technical support and health and safety advice, the new Hub also offers a wealth of information from BSG, including newsletters, HSE Blitz Notices, safety alerts and new legislation updates.

“It also features a list of our construction design and management (CDM) services to help companies fulfil their legal requirements.”

The new software follows the success of BSG’s popular online risk assessments, which are now used by more than 100 SELECT Member businesses. More than 80 different types of assessments are

available – including electrical tasks first and second fix and test and commissioning – with each template pre-configured with its own set of unique control measures relevant to the hazard being assessed.

Using the simple-to-use templates means professionals can complete online assessments quickly and easily, helping their business remain compliant with HSE regulations.

SELECT Members can also access BSG’s health and safety telephone advice support centre five days a week during office hours for expert advice and support.

The dedicated helpline number – 0300 304 9099 – provides expert telephone advice and guidance. It does not extend to document reviewing or email confirmation of advice given.

BENEFITS OF THE BSG HUB ● Always up to date – saves time and money researching other sources ● Trade-focused – no need to wade through layers of irrelevant info ● Editable content – can be downloaded and adapted to your requirements ● Easy to use – simple navigation frees time to focus on core business activity ● Expert documents – satisfy safety procurement schemes and tender processes ● Proven track record – collateral tried and tested by BSG member companies ● Access to support – convenient and impartial advice helps builds confidence ● Monthly newsletter – keeps you up to date and ahead of the competition

Margaret says goodbye to The Walled Garden after 13yrs Due to the coronavirus, a farewell bash for Senior Finance Assistant Margaret McKay had to be held a week early on Thursday 19 March – a week before she officially retired.

Margaret has worked at SELECT for 13 years, during which her main roles have involved the purchase ledgers, month-end duties, telephone

queries and holiday wages for the SJIB. Throughout her time at SELECT she also helped organise a string of charity fundraisers, including Children in Need and the Macmillan bake off, which she helped make extremely popular.

Margaret said: “I’m really going to miss the people I’ve

worked with at SELECT, as well as the Christmas parties and the annual SELECT picnic. I’d just like to say thanks for the laughs and the memories.”

Margaret now plans to volunteer at Broomhill Day Care Centre and spend more watching more cricket and football – especially her beloved Hibs.

Margaret McKay

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NEWS BEHIND THE SCENES Until the coronavirus halted us in our tracks in mid-March, our staff had again been busy since the start of February, travelling far and wide on Members’ behalf. Here are some highlights…

GLASGOW Director of Employment and Skills Fiona Harper represented SELECT at the first meeting of the Fair Work Convention, Construction Industry Inquiry Group in Glasgow on 12 March.

EAST KILBRIDE Training and Development Adviser Malcolm Duncan delivered training in emergency lighting systems in East Kilbride on 11 March.

AT SELECT HQ e Membership Manager Sandra Bennett, Training Administrator Laurie Burns, Technical Administrator Susie Liddle and Employment Affairs Administrators Nicky Deighan and Nicola Walker attended The Electrical Site Safety Assessment course at The Walled Garden on 11 February. r Specifier and Client Relations Manager Yvonne Wilson and Technical Adviser Stuart McKelvie attended a Local Authority Forum on 12 February in which Mark Wilson from Intelligent Land Investments Group delivered a presentation on pump hydro storage and Ryan Robertson from East Lothian Road Services discussed EV infrastructure. t Technical Adviser Stuart McKelvie and Specifier and Client Relations Manager Yvonne Wilson

CAMBUSLANG Technical Adviser Stuart McKelvie delivered the two-day Customised Award in Inspection and Testing at the SECTT Assessment Centre in Cambuslang on 10 and 11 March.

attended a Local Authority Engineers Forum on 26 February that included a presentation on low carbon applications by Alistair Roberts of iPpower Energy Ltd. u Director of Employment and Skills Fiona Harper attended a meeting of Skills Development Scotland and SECTT at The Walled Garden on 17 February. Fiona also attended a SECTT Trustees meeting and the SJIB National Board at SELECT HQ on 4 and 11 March respectively. i Training and Development Adviser Malcolm Duncan delivered emergency lighting in-house training for operatives and supervisors from Fife Council on 20 February. This was followed by an emergency lighting awareness seminar for operatives and supervisors from the University of Edinburgh on 5 March.

TRAINING

370 delegates trained

BLANTYRE Director of Technical Services Dave Forrester was at a Building Standards compliance workshop at the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) in Blantyre on 27 February.

Managing Director Alan Wilson and Director of Employment and Skills Fiona Harper also met with CSIC Chief Executive Stephen Good at the centre on 21 February.

IRVINE, 12 MARCH

r Mark Wilson at the Local Authority Forum 14

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ARGYLL AND BUTE Technical Adviser Darren Sweeney carried out a technical assessment at Mull of Kintyre lighthouse in Argyll and Bute on 4 February. Read the diary of his journey in the next issue of CABLEtalk.

ELGIN, 5 MARCH

EDINBURGH

GLENROTHES Member Representative Diane Hales and Technical Adviser Keith Hagan held a drop-in session for Fife and Tayside Members at the Gilvernbank Hotel in Glenrothes on 17 February.

BATHGATE Director of Technical Services Dave Forrester was the guest speaker at a meeting of the Scottish Construction Safety Group in Bathgate on 20 February.

e Director of Finance and Operations John McGhee attended a Bank of England monetary policy update in Edinburgh on 7 February. r Technical Standards Adviser Bob Cairney attended a CIBSE technical seminar on the new expanded Society of Light and Lighting handbook in Edinburgh on 11 February, presented by Ross Munro of Tamlite Lighting.

t Director of Technical Services Dave Forrester and Director of Membership and Communications Iain Mason discussed the launch of the new Scottish Building Standards Certification at a meeting of scheme providers at SNIPEF in Edinburgh on 18 February. u Specifier and Client Relations Manager Yvonne Wilson represented SELECT at the Home and Energy Forum with

Edinburgh City Council on 21 February. i Managing Director Alan Wilson and Specifier and Client Relations Manager Yvonne Wilson attended the AGM of the Scottish Council for Development and Industry at Edinburgh Zoo on 3 March. o Director of Technical Services Dave Forrester attended a Quality Initiative Reference Group meeting of the Scottish Futures Trust in Edinburgh on 12 March.

STIRLING Technical Standards Adviser Bob Cairney attended the Energy Efficiency Training Network Advisory board meeting at ESP in Stirling on 20 February, looking at government funding for colleges offering energy efficiency training courses.

FURTHER AFIELD proposals for RCD testing and FEE in a future amendment to BS 7671:2018.

THE WALLED GARDEN

HAMILTON, 10 MARCH

ST BOSWELLS, 3 MARCH TRAINING

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training courses delivered DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY Director of Employment and Skills Fiona Harper and Training Manager Jenny Cryans visited Dumfries & Galloway College on 5 March to discuss a potential partnership offering electric vehicle charging installation courses.

i John Bercow, far left, and Kevin Griffith, centre e Employment Affairs Adviser Nicola Jengaenga attended a meeting of the Joint Staff Group in London on 20 February. r Technical Standards Adviser Bob Cairney attended a JPEL/64 SC A Working Group on RCDs at Savoy Place, London, on 17 February, discussing test requirements for RCDs and also attended a meeting of the JPEL64 SC C foundation earth electrode working group on 24 February to discuss

t Director of Technical Services Dave Forrester represented SELECT at a meeting of the Fire & Security Association in London on 24 February.

The next day, he attended an Electrotechnical Assessment Specification meeting, also in London. u Director of Employment and Skills Fiona Harper attended an NET board meeting in London on 25 February and an emergency labour relations committee on 3 March. i President Kevin Griffin, Managing Director Alan Wilson and Director of Membership and Communications Iain Mason went to the Electrical Distributors’ Association Education & Training Awards at the InterContinental Park Lane in London on 5 March. Kevin and Alan met special guest former MP and Commons Speaker John Bercow.

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CORONAVIRUS COMMERCIAL CONTRACT ADVICE

Protecting your business’s health Another unwelcome side of coronavirus is the inevitable knock-on effect of closed sites and delayed or cancelled commercial contracts.

The issue could also affect Members in domestic situations – so our legal advisors, MacRoberts Solicitors, are here with some guidance

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“Even if one construction business is not particularly hard hit, its subcontractors or suppliers down the supply chain may be adversely affected to a more significant degree”

By Neil Kelly, Partner, MacRoberts Solicitors

I

t is difficult to say how badly the construction sector in Scotland and the rest of the UK will be affected by the coronavirus. One thing is certain, however – the effect could be damaging and significant.

It is clear that the construction sector is likely to be one of the worst affected business sectors.

It has been predicted that up to a third of the UK population might contract the virus. The need for self-quarantine if you have travelled to an affected area, or if you are displaying symptoms, may not have a severe effect on those who can work from home. Construction work, however, can’t usually be carried out from the kitchen table or another spot at home.

Further, construction projects usually have to rely on a complex supply chain.

So, even if one construction business is not particularly hard hit, the firm’s subcontractors or suppliers down the supply chain may be adversely affected to a more significant degree, thus affecting how and when the construction business can fulfil its obligations.

If a business is affected by the coronavirus, this may cause delay or disruption to construction works due to be carried out by it. In such an eventuality, the business might be entitled to an extension of time for carrying out its work, thus avoiding a claim for damages for late completion.

An extension of time does not automatically mean that there will also be an entitlement to claim additional

payment as a result of such delay or disruption. Much will depend upon the terms of the particular contract.

The contract: Delay and programming

Does the contract require you to give notice or early warnings if your works have been or are going to be delayed by the effects of the virus? Many contract forms also contain programming obligations under which it is necessary to submit revised programmes in the event of delay. The message here has to be – make sure you submit the necessary notices and revised programmes in accordance with the requirements of the particular contract. Such submissions may be a condition precedent to entitlement which means that you may have no claim if you don’t follow the notice provisions correctly.

In addition, following the contract requirements may be the only way you have of avoiding a claim for delay damages either for breach of contract at common law or by way of liquidate damages fixed under the contract.

LEGAL HELPLINE As a SELECT Member, you have access to a legal helpline provided via MacRoberts, who can provide specialist legal advice in the fields of commercial contracts. Twenty minutes of advice is provided free of charge.

More complex queries that require further time can be dealt with for a fee agreed between the Member and MacRoberts. This service is available from 8.30am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays.

CALL THE HELPLINE ON

0141 303 1111 Claims for additional payment

If a claim is possible under the terms of the contract, here again it will be normal for there to be a contractual requirement that notice of a claim for Continued on page 18 >>>

FURTHER INFORMATION ● Please note that, as the coronavirus situation is changing on a daily basis, Members are advised to check the latest official advice from the Scottish Government, which can by found by going to www.gov.scot/news/ workplace-advicecontained-in-new-

coronavirus-guidance ● Check out NHS Inform at www.nhsinform.scot ● Visit Health Protection Scotland’s website at www.hps.scot.nhs.uk ● We also advise reading the simple steps employers should consider by the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service CABLEtalk

(Acas), which can be found at www.acas.org. uk/coronavirus and include information about sickness absence and pay. ● There is also a new helpline supplying tailored advice for Scottish businesses which can be contacted on 0300 303 0660.

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CORONAVIRUS COMMERCIAL CONTRACT ADVICE Continued from page 17 >>>

additional payment is to be made within a specified period of becoming aware of the circumstances giving rise to the claim. Absence of such proper notice may be fatal to a claim.

Keep the position under review.

Many Standard Form contracts require particulars of claims when initially made and updates when the full nature and extent of the problem become known.

Force majeure

If the effect of a virus like coronavirus isn’t stated expressly to be an employer’s risk under the terms of your particular contract, could it fall within the definition of ‘force majeure’?

The legal doctrine of force majeure applies in exceptional and unforeseen circumstances. The phrase force majeure has no generally accepted legal meaning.

Many consider that it means some ‘Act of God’ but its meaning can be wider than that. It is important to carefully check the force majeure clause in your contract to ascertain whether the circumstances experienced constitute force majeure.

If such circumstances are recognised in the contract, it may give rise to an entitlement to extension of time and, possibly, additional payment. However, here again, many contracts include onerous notice provisions which need to be followed in order to make a successful claim.

One effect of the coronavirus is that contract draftsmen may revisit the terms of construction contracts

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DOMESTIC WORK From a domestic contract perspective, i.e. when carrying out work at someone’s home, if someone has contracted for work to be done and then cancels, the person who cancels might open themselves up to a claim for damages.

However, that isn’t going to help re: small contracts either in relation to amount of damages – likely to be very low if accepted at all – and the very poor impact on customer relations. It would be preferable to agree that the work would be carried out a future date.

All information was correct as CABLEtalk went to press on 24 March. Events may have subsequently changed, so please check select.org.uk or call 0131 445 557 for specific queries.

to make clearer whether a virus like the coronavirus falls within the force majeure clause.

Amended Standard Form?

As with all of the above, if you’re operating on an amended Standard Form contract, make sure you check how any bespoke changes may affect the terms under which claims can be made.

Frustration/Impossibility

The legal doctrine of frustration operates where there are intervening circumstances which make the performance of the contract impossible or radically different than initially expected.

Think about whether the direct effect of the virus itself or the effect of Scottish/UK Government action has prevented or frustrated you in carrying out your obligations, or otherwise made

performance of your obligations under the contract impossible.

If you can’t claim the virus is a force majeure, it may be possible to argue that you are not obliged to perform/complete your contract work because that has become impossible or illegal.

Insurance

Check what you are covered for and, importantly, what you’re not covered for under the insurance cover you have in place.

It may be that, if your business has been adversely affected by the virus, your policy will afford you some degree of cover. Check the terms of the policy or speak to your broker.

There are now certain business interruption policies that may cover delay and disruption to works caused by the virus itself or government action in response to it. When your policy is up for renewal, check if it gives you the cover you want in these circumstances.

If it doesn’t, you may be better to shop around for insurance that more accurately reflects the needs of your

Where to turn for support

Help is available for people worried about coronavirus

“Failure to give such notice may adversely affect recovery even if cover is otherwise available under your insurance policy” business, even if it has to come at an increased premium.

If you may be covered for the effects of the virus, here too, the policy is likely to require timeous intimation of a possible/ actual claim under the insurance policy.

Failure to give such notice may adversely affect recovery even if cover is otherwise available under your insurance policy.

A bit of give and take?

The virus is among us, not isolated in some foreign country or continent.

Contracts may or may not provide for this eventuality or there could be arguments one way or the other.

Unless we all take a reasonable

and enlightened approach in these exceptional circumstances, the effect could be that construction projects are completed even later than they might be or not completed at all; relationships might break down and expensive dispute resolution processes employed.

It is to be hoped that, with some give and take, all those affected by the virus will be able to agree its effect upon them and that any agreements on that are suitably recorded and implemented.

For the moment, it is vital to think ahead and to try to take steps seeking to protect your position no matter where you may sit in the construction supply chain.

The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) is offering financial relief and mental health support to any contractors who have concerns about the impact of coronavirus.

The charity is adapting its support service to help industry members through the pandemic, with a range of practical support services.

Financial assistance on offer from the EIC includes: ● Small grants for those in immediate and urgent need ● Advice about financial relief and support services ● Immediate strategies, e.g. mortgage holidays ● Signposting to other welfare services and charities ● Review of welfare eligibility and help with application ● Food vouchers if in immediate and urgent need.

In addition, the charity is offering a range of mental health support, including: ● Support strategies to help cope with self-isolation ● Telephone and Skype counselling ● Psychiatric assessments ● Links to other support and online services.

Tessa Ogle, CEO and MD of the EIC, said: “We know that the effect of COVID-19 on industry and income will be great and that we’ll all be affected. So, in these times of darkness and insecurity we want to let our industry members we’re here to help them.

“Like most of the industry, the EIC will be financially burdened by the ramifications of COVID-19, but we are doing our best to provide both financial and emotional support to those in need.”

To find out more, contact the confidential EIC helpline on 0800 652 1618 or email support@electricalcharity.org CABLEtalk

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APPRENTICES SCOTTISH APPRENTICESHIP WEEK

Making a positive connection Scottish Apprenticeship Week was bigger and better than ever this year – and once again SECTT helped MSPs and MPs meet the talent of tomorrow at Member firms across Scotland

T

he Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) was proud to play its part in this year’s Scottish Apprentice Week as senior politicians met some of the industry’s rising stars first-hand.

Held between 2 and 6 March, the national event gave SECTT the chance to showcase some of

the high-quality training it manages on behalf of the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB).

To mark the occasion, SECTT organised a number of politician visits to electrical companies on behalf of the Scottish Government through Skills Development Scotland.

The first visit took place at Brand Electrical and Refrigeration in Dundee on 2 March, where the SNP’s Graeme Dey, Minister for

Parliamentary Business and Veterans, met the firm’s owner Gregor Brand.

During his tour of the premises, Mr Dey spoke to former Army recruit Robbie Wilkinson, who spotted an advert for the Get into Electrical Installation programme with the Prince’s Trust, Dundee and Angus College and SECTT. During the six-week programme, SECTT Training Officer David Stebbings invited employers to see the group at work. One such employer was Gregor, who was so impressed by Robbie he offered him a week’s work.

Robbie duly excelled and was offered full-time employment and a place on Continued on page 22 >>>

BRAND ELECTRICAL From left: First stage apprentice Robbie Wilkinson, Graham Dey MSP, Brand Electrical MD Gregor Brand, David Stebbings from SECTT and Gordon McDougall of Skills Development Scotland CABLEtalk

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APPRENTICES SCOTTISH APPRENTICESHIP WEEK

PARKER TECHNICAL From left: Gordon Penman of SECTT, office staff Reece, Keira and Karis, Graham Simpson MSP, third stage apprentices Ross Adams and Andy Costello, and Operations Director Paul Lynch Continued from page 21 >>>

the Electrical Installation Modern Apprenticeship.

Robbie said: “I’m thoroughly enjoying the work. Although the hours can often be quite long, it’s very rewarding.”

Mr Dey said: “I know that it can often be difficult for ex-services personnel to find work, and this route certainly encourages people into apprenticeships. Brand’s approach is encouraging and it’s rewarding to support employment through apprentices.”

Gregor added: “I fully support investing in apprenticeships because once you’ve become a qualified electrician you can do anything.”

Investing in youthful energy

Another MSP visit saw Graham Simpson, Conservative member for Central Scotland, take time out of his busy schedule to meet with Parker Technical Services in Uddingston, Lanarkshire.

Anne Galbraith, CEO of SECTT, joined Graham on the tour, where they heard first-hand about the company’s vision for the future.

HR Advisor (Scotland) Stephanie Kelly said that some 12% of Parker’s workforce are currently apprentices, adding: “We prefer to grow our own talent because the ethos of the company is more about quality 22

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than speed.” Mr Simpson also met two electrical apprentices, Ross Adams and Andy Costello, who were both incredibly positive about their experience, as well as office staff Reece, Keira and Karis who are following apprenticeships in business admin and finance.

Ross, who is about to enter his fourth year, said: “Learning on the job has been the best thing and I’ve really enjoyed my time at college.”

During the tour, Operations Director Paul Lynch said Parker only used direct labour, with no agencies involved. He also said the company visited schools to attract local talent and had been trying to encourage females to apply to SECTT to become electricians.

The group also discussed protection of title, which would mean anyone claiming to be an electrician would need proper qualifications. Anne updated Mr Simpson on the campaign currently being spearheaded by SELECT, the SJIB and SECTT which has seen a Member’s Bill lodged by Conservative MSP, Jamie Halcro Johnston, Shadow Minister for Jobs, Employability and Training.

Building a brighter future

L McCANN From left: Ryan McCann with daughter Sienna, new college starter Martin Donnelly, third stage apprentices Tony Weir and Scott Wales, Clare Adamson MSP, first stage apprentice Rhys Mallinson and Gordon Penman from SECTT

Next stop on the politicians’ apprentice trail was Motherwell’s L McCann Electrical Ltd, a family business which was established more than 30 years ago.

Local SNP MSP Clare Adamson heard how the firm’s main focus is now energy performance services, helping hospital trusts, PLC clients and council authorities develop and

SBHA From left: Second stage apprentice Keir Ballantyne, IT apprentice Ben Richardson, SBHA Chief Executive Julia Mulloy, Rachel Hamilton MSP, plasterer Matthew Wainman, fourth stage apprentice Darren Hulme and SECTT Training Officer Stuart Jack

SPIE SECTT’s Scott Burnside (far left) and Clare Haughey MSP (second from the right) meet the electrical apprentices at SPIE

implement energy reduction opportunities.

Managing Director Ryan McCann said: “As installations become more complex it’s important that we have the correct level of knowledge to allow projects to be completed to the client’s satisfaction first time. We have a high retention rate of apprentices postFICA, so it’s paid off to invest in them as we’ve been able to mould them to suit changing market technologies.”

McCann now plans to open a connected lighting training academy in its offices to support the transfer of knowledge from industry experts to new apprentices and paying delegates.

Creating inspiring stories

SECTT also helped with further visits during Scottish Apprenticeship Week, including a tour of the Scottish Borders Housing Association in

LOTUS ELECTRICAL SERVICES LTD Scott Burnside from SECTT (far left) and Colin Smyth MSP (far right) chatted to the team

DEREK MITCHELL ELECTRICAL LTD From left: Paul Mitchell, Joan McAlpine MSP, second stage apprentice Daniel Hewitt, third stage apprentice Calum McKie, a mechanical apprentice and SECTT’s Scott Burnside

Selkirk by Conservative MSP Rachel Hamilton and a trip to SPIE in Edinburgh by MSP politician Clare Haughey, Minister for Mental Health.

Labour MSP Colin Smyth met the team at Lotus Electrical Services Ltd in Dumfries, while the SNP’s Joan McAlpine chatted to youngsters during her visit to Derek Mitchell Electrical Ltd, also in Dumfries.

And finally, SNP MP Alyn Smith and SNP MSP Bruce Crawford spoke with first stage apprentices Scott Walker, Ryan Morrison, Adam Mullin and Lorne McCulloch as they were treated to a tour of building services group FES in Stirling.

Anne Galbraith said: “These visits were an excellent showcase for SECTT and the terrific work that these companies undertake, and I’d like to thank all those who took part in Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2020. We all know that the future is

FES MSP Bruce Crawford (front left) and MP Alyn Smith meet the apprentices working at FES

electric, so we will need more apprentices coming through the system to support the Scottish Government in reaching its zero emissions target.”

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APPRENTICES THE POWER OF APPRENTICESHIPS

Females in focus An inspiring new video from SELECT celebrates a rise in women applying to become electrical apprentices as two employees of a Member firm reveal how they’re faring on the different stages of their career pathway

S

ELECT has released a new video welcoming a small but significant upturn in the number of young women who are now choosing to undertake apprenticeships as electricians.

Released to coincide with Scottish Apprenticeship Week, the film comes as new figures show that 13 females applied to be electrical apprentices in 2019-2020, compared to seven in 2018-2019. This increase in female Apprentice Neave

ny a e r a “There ifferent fd o r e b be num n a c t tha s h t a fied i p l a u q a s a d er e e r a c e follow d th n a , n a ci r” electri s your oyste i world rke e, TCla

applicants overall in 2019/2020 saw 70% of those applying being taken on to the Electrical Installation Modern Apprenticeship.

To mark the milestone, SELECT commissioned a short film, The Power of Apprenticeships, which features an interview with Neave Brownlie, an apprentice at Member company TClarke. The 21-year-old trainee says: “I finished school and could have gone to uni, but I preferred the idea of being paid while I was learning to become a qualified electrician.

d McBri Elyse

“I preferred the idea of being paid w hile I was learning to b ecome a qualified ele ctrician” Neave Brow nlie, TClark e

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Elyse in the video

VIDEO H THE WATC it.ly/CT– AT b sinfocus female

“I’m enjoying it; you’re never left alone on site, there’s always someone there supporting you and making sure you are safe. I’m treated like a daughter or a sister and everyone I’ve worked with has been lovely.

“The really exciting thing is the opportunity to travel the world once I have completed my apprenticeship and become a qualified electrician.”

The Power of Apprenticeships also features another TClarke employee, Elyse McBride, a qualified electrician who is now office-based and training to become a quantity surveyor.

Elyse – a former SJIB Apprentice of the Year finalist in the SELECT Awards – said: “Completing an apprenticeship as an electrician was fundamental to me moving into a managerial role. There are any number of different paths that can

“Apprenticeships are important to the industry to keep developing a new skill base” Gary Jackson, TClarke Scotland Managing Director be followed as a qualified electrician, and the career world is your

oyster.” Filmed at the company’s offices in Falkirk, and now available to view on SELECT’s YouTube channel, the video also features a contribution from TClarke Scotland Managing Director Gary Jackson.

He says: “Apprenticeships are important to the industry to keep developing a new skill base.

“It’s a busy market and there’s a low availability of skills, so as a prominent leader in apprenticeships, we feel that it’s an important thing to keep doing.”

The video was produced in partnership with the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB), the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) and Unite the Union.

Fiona Harper, Director of Employment and Skills at SELECT, said: “This rise in female applicants to become apprentices is excellent news, particularly as it came during Scottish Apprenticeship Week itself.

“An electrical apprenticeship for a young woman, just as for everyone else, is a life-changing experience which can open many doors, not only to further career progression and global travel, but also to professional regard and life fulfilment.”

Four female candidates recently took part in a pre-application course at West College Scotland, Paisley Campus, with three of them now undertaking a work trial with an electrical company.

Fiona, who is also The Secretary of the SJIB, added: “There is a world of opportunity for young women in the electrical sector.

“With this film we hope that we can encourage many more of them, currently in school or college, to consider an electrical apprenticeship as a serious career option for their future.”

Gary Jackson CABLEtalk

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TECHNICAL 18TH EDITION AMENDMENT 1

Changing Gear

Released in February, the first amendment to BS 7671:2018 saw changes to the section that covers electric vehicle charging installations. Here, we outline the revisions and how they impact the fitting of this rapidly-developing technology 26

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satisfying competence requirements should be qualification as an electrician with up-to-date knowledge of requirements in BS 7671:2018 but also with specific knowledge of the requirements given in Section 722 Electric Vehicle Charging Installations.

This type of installation is one of the special installations or locations given in Part 7 of BS 7671:2018. However, section 722 requirements have recently been amended with the publication of Amendment 1:2020 to BS 7671:2018.

By Bob Cairney I Eng MIET Technical Standards Adviser, SELECT

T

he Scottish Government’s plans for de-carbonisation of the environment are intended to help cut the levels of carbon in the atmosphere and reduce air pollution in our cities.

However, these measures are also providing opportunities for enterprising electrical contracting businesses who may be looking to diversify into new areas of work.

The announcement to end sales of new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2032 is one particular area which may interest these businesses. Such a move will require significant investment to provide a charging infrastructure throughout Scotland to power the electric vehicle (EV) revolution currently gathering pace as we move forward into the decade ahead.

Those who possess the necessary knowledge and skills should be well placed and much in demand to become involved with this – however, appropriate training will be necessary.

This will also help such businesses to satisfy current industry competence requirements and enable installers to become ‘approved installers’ which is a requirement to access government incentives on behalf of customers, e.g. the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) home charge scheme, which provides up to £500 of grant funding for such installations.

As a minimum, the starting point to

When does A1:2020 come into effect?

Amendment 1:2020 does not need to be implemented until after 31 July 2020.

However, it can be used immediately from its date of publication in February 2020, therefore it is recommended that if undertaking such work, you should have access to the document and be familiar with its content.

A brief overview of some of the amended requirements is provided below for guidance.

New symbols

New symbols are included in the list of symbols given in Part 2 of BS 7671:2018 including a symbol for Cmax.

Cmax is defined as the maximum voltage factor to take account of voltage variations depending on time and place, changing of transformer taps and other considerations and for a low voltage supply given in accordance with the ESQCR is given the value of 1.1.

This is used in the calculation of load balance and earth electrode resistance and makes an adjustment for the worst conditions of fault current that may exist during a fault which would be 253 V for a supply given with a nominal voltage of 230 V.

Load curtailment

When determining the maximum demand of an installation, load

Amendment 1:2020 is currently published as a standalone document and is available free to view on the IET website at www.electrical.theiet.org/ bs-7671/updates/

An amendment to BS 7671 covering EV installation has recently been published

curtailment, including load reduction or disconnection, either automatically or manually, may now be taken into account. Load curtailment is similar to load shedding, where electrical loads are switched off for variable periods of time to optimise demand.

PME earthing facility

Regulation 722.411.4.1 now requires that a PME earthing facility shall not be used when charging outdoors unless one of the five methods given is used.

These are basically as follows: i. A balanced three-phase installation ii. The main earthing terminal of the installation is connected to an additional earth electrode iii. A device which electrically disconnects line, neutral and protective earth connections, when the supply voltage is greater than 70 V between the protective conductor and earth iv. A device which electrically disconnects line, neutral and protective earth connections, when the supply voltage is greater than Continued on page 28 >>> CABLEtalk

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TECHNICAL 18TH EDITION AMENDMENT 1 TOOLBOX TALKS Electric vehicle charging was one of the subjects due to be discussed at our Toolbox Talks. With the events now cancelled due to coronavirus, keep an eye out for the alternative methods in which we will deliver this information.

Continued from page 27 >>>

253 V or less than 207 V rms v. An alternative device to options iii or iv above which does not result in a lesser degree of safety.

Previously only options i, ii and iii were given but these were not likely to be used as the requirements are difficult to satisfy. However, manufacturers of EV charging equipment are now developing products which incorporate safety devices in the EV charging equipment and the two new options reflect this.

Please note that with regard to using these options, the designer of the EV charging installation retains overall responsibility for establishing the safety of the installation.

It is also highlighted that it may not always be possible to achieve adequate separation distances between different earthing systems when using one of the five options, therefore connection to a TT earthing system may be an alternative option.

RCD protection

Requirements for RCD protection of the charging point socket–outlets or vehicle connector and specific protection against DC fault current have also now been clarified.

The requirements for RCD protection refer to the EV charging point itself as opposed to the final circuit supplying the equipment.

However, there may be other requirements for RCD protection such as for fault protection, if the 28

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Electric vehicles are becoming a popular choice for drivers

“Manufacturers are developing products which incorporate safety devices in the charging equipment” circuit were connected to a TT earthing arrangement. If this is the case, it is important to select the correct type of RCD and to ensure selectivity upstream from the charging equipment RCD. Regulation 722.531.2.101 requires the charging point to be protected by its own RCD having a residual operating current not exceeding 30mA, unless electrical separation is used.

This should also protect against DC currents, except where this protection is provided by the charging point, and be either Type B or Type A or F in conjunction with a residual current detecting device (RDC-DD).

Annex A722

Guidance given in Annex A722 for TN systems where PME conditions apply

has been updated and includes sample calculations if adopting methods i, ii or iii for connection to a PME earthing system given in Regulation 722.411.4.1.

Businesses who want to become involved in this area of work may be interested in SELECT’s Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation training course (City & Guilds 2919-01-02).

However, it should be noted that those who are seeking to become an Approved Installer with OLEV may also need to undertake additional manufacturer product-specific training.

For further information, please contact SELECT Training on 0131 445 5577 or email training@select.org.uk

i

TRAINING EFFECTIVE MANAGER PROGRAMME It’s been eight months since the 12th intake of the SELECT Effective Manager Programme began their studies at Napier University in Edinburgh. In the latest update on their progress, we find out how they’re finding life in the classroom – and answer some common questions about the course

By Diane Peebles, Course Leader

A

fter starting the Effective Manager Programme in September last year, our current intake of students have now submitted their first written plans and reports.

Key to the programme is that these students take something they learned and try it out back at work, and then write about their learning from this.

I’m pleased to say the current students

Ian Hamilton – Arthur McKay

Glenn Kippen - Unite Security & Electrical

Kevin Smillie – John Heaney Electrical Services Sean Coleman – M-Pact

Paul McGuire – Morris & Spottiswood

Kirsty Hughes – Bell Fire & Security

Students get their report card

EFFECTIVE MANAGER PROGRAMME: FAQs I’ve never been on a university course before – will I have to write long essays?

Not on this one! The written work for this programme is all in the form of plans and reports that encourage students to write clearly and concisely about what they have done and learned. The most we ask you to write at a time is 1,000 words, 30

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and some students say the main problem is keeping within this word count, rather than not having enough to write about.

I don’t have any previous university qualifications; can I still apply?

It’s not necessary to have any qualifications from a university to apply for this course. If you’ve

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completed an apprenticeship, or have an HND or equivalent, then you’re eligible to apply.

We also take applications from people who don’t have any formal qualifications at all, but who have enough management experience to participate fully in the programme. All applications are looked at on their own merit.

Does it involve sitting through lots of lectures?

Most people assume that because it’s a university course, you’ll just be sitting and listening to ‘academics’ speak.

The reality couldn’t be further from the truth. All the tutors have done or do real jobs and most have their own businesses. The emphasis

Liam MacLeod – NES North

Scott McLean – Stirling Electrical Services

Jack McGinley – VWS

James Perrin – Morris & Spottiswood

Adam Ronald – Atalian Servest AMK

Alan Ramage – Midlothian Council

Catherine Thompson – Napier tutor/ workshop leader

“I’m constantly uplifted by the effort the students go to in trying out new things” Diane Peebles

is on really practical things that you can think about and try out back at work. There are nine workshops in the programme and each one covers a different topic of management, such as effective communication or managing change. They are run in a really interactive way, so students learn as much from each other as they do from the tutors; ensuring we

get students to share their experiences is really important.

What type of people usually sign up for the programme?

There has been a wide variety of people through the programme. Some of our students started out as apprentices then worked their way up and are now managing others. Some

Richard Dingwall – Bell Fire & Security

have once again submitted some fantastic reports covering areas such as their communication skills, how they support staff with stress at work and how they have better one-to-one discussions with their team members.

The assignments are all very practical in nature.

Feedback from the students also continues to be very positive. Here are some comments from people who are now mid-way through the course.

One student said: “I’ve really enjoyed all of the module’s content. I already feel I’m a better project manager from the learning I’ve experienced to date.”

Another student said: “The teaching has been amazing – all the workshop leaders have provided valuable content which I’m already implementing in my workplace.”

And a third learner revealed: “If you haven’t been on a university course before it can feel a little daunting, but you do get used to it and the resources and support provided are really good.”

As programme leader, I’m constantly uplifted by the effort the students go to in trying new things out, and encouraged by the tangible results they gain from their efforts. They also seem to really enjoy it, and we try to provide a supportive learning environment where people can feel free to ask any questions or raise any concerns.

If you’re interested in joining the next course, please contact SELECT Training by calling 0131 445 5577 or email training@ select.org.uk to see if you’re eligible.

i

students run their own businesses and want to ensure their management skills are current and effective. We’ve had engineers, project managers, contracts managers and site managers through our programme in the past.

We’ve also had some office staff – such as office managers, supervisors,

finance and HR – who also feel they could improve their management skills. The age of our students varies too; we’ve had students from their early 20s right up to early 60s who all get a real benefit. The mix of backgrounds and ages gives a really varied mix of experiences which leads to some great discussions during the workshops.

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TRAINING EMERGENCY LIGHTING

Leading light SELECT responds to recent Member feedback by launching a new half-day seminar in emergency lighting

S

ELECT is delighted to announce the introduction of a new half-day seminar on emergency lighting. The course is recommended for anyone who is responsible for the maintenance of emergency lighting systems and the collating of relevant information on an emergency lighting log book.

At the end of the course, the candidates will have a knowledge and understanding of BS 5266-1:2016 and other associated standards.

They will also be aware of their responsibilities and the need for maintenance, testing and certification of emergency lighting systems.

The course will cover the general requirements of BS 5266-1:2016 including the choice, design, installation and certification of emergency lighting systems. It will also include the following changes from the previous standard: ● Clearer guidance covering the requirements for escape route emergency lighting luminaries and signs in different types of premises ● Guidance including illustrations on the emergency lighting requirements for different types and sizes of rooms ● Guidance on the requirements where sudden loss of an individual normal lamp could prejudice safety ● Clearer guidance on the types of wiring systems and test facilities

required for emergency lighting ● New improved certification ● Guidance on the evaluation of existing premises to help decide if the emergency lighting system is adequate for its current use.

SELECT Training Manager Jenny Cryans said: “Members have been asking us for training for employees who are responsible for the maintenance of emergency lighting systems and the collating of relevant information within an emergency lighting log book.

“As a result, we’ve created this half-day seminar to provide them with further information about this topic and assist them with the role.”

The emergency lighting courses are planned for later this year at a venue to be confirmed.

The cost of the seminar will be £70 + VAT for SELECT Members.

To find out more about the seminar, please contact the SELECT Training Department on 0131 445 5577 or email sue.ross@select.org.uk You can also check out our website, www.select.org.uk /training CABLEtalk

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FOCUS PAYMENT ISSUES

Beware the domino effect Cashflow problems can soon escalate and lead to other knock-on issues that impact both your business and your health. So what steps can you take to avoid the pitfalls?

By Len Bunton

FRICS FCIArb, HON FRIAS

I

SEC Group Scotland start this article on a sombre note.

I am greatly concerned about what I see every day in the construction industry, with increasing levels of business failure and the recent collapse of two well-established firms in Scotland. The whole thing creates a domino effect that could be further complicated by the impact of the coronavirus.

So why the sudden escalation in cashflow problems? I’ve seen this coming for some time, with more clients calling me about payment problems and an increase in the number of disputes being referred to adjudication. And it’s

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not just the numbers – disputes are becoming more complex and the amounts are also increasing.

The real cause of all of this goes right back to procurement strategies of competitive tendering, i.e. low margins, tender prices being driven down and projects going on to site and not being fully designed.

There is a move to change all of this, but it will take years. In the meantime, there is far too much design and build – or as some colleagues call it “design and dump” – where the employer puts unreasonable risk on the contractor and it then goes down the supply chain. However, the real culprits out

there are public and private sector employers who don’t observe the 30-day payment periods – so don’t be afraid to call them out, especially in the public sector. If your first payment is late then put a marker down IMMEDIATELY. The other culprits are contractors who also pay late, and they also need to be named and shamed. My advice is simple – don’t work for anyone who has a poor payment record.

I see the same symptoms all the time – the first payment is late, measurements are slashed, variations are denied and/or are slashed and contra charges introduced from day one.

So how can you protect yourself?

First things first – be careful who you work for and check their credit rating.

Always read your subcontracts and look out for onerous conditions, particularly in relation to payment.

Next, agree a payment schedule with the employer or contractor, and with any subcontractors make sure you meet the dates. In addition, make sure your applications for payment are fully detailed and keep records of the project, including photos of progress or delayed areas. And above all – chase, chase and chase payment.

Another thing to consider is collecting retentions, which as you will know, many contractors aren’t good at doing. Make up a list and chase them down. Also keep on top of your quality on site, and keep rectifying defective workmanship as you go – DON’T leave it till the end of the project.

The impact on health

I now want to turn to the serious issue of health. With many of my clients, I see first-hand the impact of financial concerns on home and family, with business owners suffering sleepless nights as they fight for survival. The answer is to find a good adviser to talk

DO YOU NEED HELP? If your mental health is suffering as a result of payment issues, the Electrical Industries Charity can help.

To find out more, call 020 3696 1710 or go to www.electricalcharity.org

to and share your problems with – and of course SELECT can help you there.

Some good news

Now one piece of good news for the industry. On 18 March, the Construction Industry Council (CIC) launched the CIC Low Value Adjudication Procedure. This is aimed at low value disputes up to £50,000, with fixed costs for the adjudicator as follows to gives parties complete certainty of costs: ● Claim value up to £10,000 – fee of £2,000 ● Claim value £10,001 to £25,000 – fee of £3,500 ● Claim value £25,001 to £50,000 – fee of £6,000 ● Claim value of over £50,000 – fee to be negotiated.

Disputes like this should easily be dealt with in 28 days and you probably

don’t need lawyers if it’s a straightforward payment issue. This is very good news for the construction industry and you should seriously consider putting this process into your subcontracts. If you want to hear more about this, then please contact myself or Alan Wilson at SELECT.

So where will we be in three months’ time?

The answer is, goodness only knows.

As I write this, I’ve had seven calls this morning about payment problems so I feel gloomy about the future of the industry. To me, it’s incredible that in Scotland we seem to run into trouble continually in relation to the procurement of major construction projects and now in building ferries.

Government and the industry need to work closely to resolve it, but I know this is an area that SELECT and SEC Group will continue to be very actively involved in.

i

If you have any comments or questions about the industry that you would like addressed, please email len@ buntonconsulting.co.uk

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FOCUS SAFETY

Fighting for hearts and minds Louise Taggart lost her brother Michael when he was electrocuted at work in 2005. Since the tragedy, she has campaigned for the safest possible working environment. Here, she explains why she’s asking everyone to support this year’s International Workers’ Memorial Day

D

o you mark International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD)? I won’t be surprised if you say “No”, then look quizzically and ask: “What’s that then?”

Because, before my wee brother Michael Adamson, an electrician, died in a fatal electrocution at work, I’d never heard of IWMD, let alone marked it.

You see, it’s a day when those who have lost loved ones in work-related

IWMD ceremony in Manchester last year 36

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incidents or due to work-related illness join together with others, to remember our dead and renew our commitment to fight for the living.

It takes place annually on 28 April and is now a firm fixture in my family’s calendar.

In 2019, denied the opportunity to celebrate what should have been Michael’s 40th birthday year, we encouraged organisations who hadn’t done so in the past, to find a way to commemorate IWMD in their

IWMD memorial stone outside Clackmannanshire Council HQ

workplace or community. And now, a year on, I’m asking you to do just that again.

Remember the dead

It is appalling and unacceptable that an average of six people still die each and every year as a result of contact with electricity or electrical discharge. And you will not have far to look to find out about electricians who have died as a result of asbestos-related illnesses, for example, or who have taken their own lives as a result of work-related suicide.

While I am sure, like my wee brother, your own lost colleagues, friends or family are never far away from your thoughts, I would ask you to find a way to remember them on 28 April. Be that by holding a minute’s silence on any larger sites, seeking to light up premises purple or lowering any on-site flags to half-mast.

Purple forget-me-knot ribbons are the symbol of IWMD. These could simply be purchased to be worn in the week before and on the day itself. Or you could go a step further and make them available in exchange for a donation to a health and safety charity, such as

Tribute to Michael

Scottish Hazards, or a support organisation for families who have lost a loved one, such as Families Against Corporate Killers (FACK).

I would normally also urge you to attend an IWMD ceremony, held in towns and cities across the country.

But we are living in unprecedented times, and at the time of writing it is unlikely that these ceremonies will go ahead. Keep an eye on Scottish Hazards’ social media sites and follow #IWMD20 for up-to-date information.

Fight for the living

It is equally important that IWMD is used to reinvigorate efforts to improve health and safety, so that future loss of life can be prevented.

The theme of this year’s IWMD is ‘Tackling psychosocial hazards at work – taking the stress out of the job’.

Stress is an issue which is likely to be particularly acute this year given the consequences of the coronavirus outbreak. So, don’t wait for 28 April itself, consider this as soon as possible, and seek to signpost people to sources of advice and support, whether that is about financial hardship, mental health

SHOWING SUPPORT Purple forget-me-knot ribbons can be purchased from the Hazards Campaign at the cost of £33 for 100. Proceeds from the sale of ribbons helps support the work of FACK which guides families through investigation and prosecution processes.

To find out more about FACK, go to www.fack.org.uk and to order ribbons, email janet@gmhazards.org.uk

issues, or relationship concerns. Then, in perhaps six months’ time, when the world has hopefully restored some semblance of order, schedule to hold a safety stand-down and take time to consider the issue further.

What conditions in your workplaces or on your worksites contribute to stress, and related conditions such as depression, anxiety, burn-out, work-related alcohol and drug misuse and work-related suicides? And decide what measures you can individually or collectively put in place to combat those issues, whether those be about

working conditions, hours, locations or otherwise.

Spread the word

I said at the outset that I was unaware of IWMD before my wee brother’s death.

I’m committed now to raising awareness, because that will help prevent others suffering our same heartache.

Michael, or Mickey Tam as he was affectionately known by me, has missed out on 15 years of birthdays so far. So, if you are unable to do anything else to mark IWMD this year, tell 15 other people about it so that awareness of the day grows.

If you do choose to mark the day, thank you and please, please share what you are doing, using the hashtags #IWMD20 and #mickeytam Work should be life-changing in a positive way. It should never ever be life-ending.

Help us continue to build a legacy for our loved ones, that will live on forever through improved protections that keep you and your family members safe and healthy.

Remember our dead. Fight for the living.

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FOCUS TENDERING

By Jennifer Payne, Development Officer, Supplier Development Programme

F

or small, micro and medium-sized businesses in Scotland, deciding which routes to take to market can be difficult.

In Scotland, there is an annual public sector spend of £11 billion, all of which is advertised through Public Contracts Scotland, the national public sector tender portal for Scotland.

Contrary to popular belief, contracts do not always go to the same suppliers.

Transparency is required for the procurement of goods, services and works, so public sector buyers are required to be open, fair and honest.

There is a robust audit trail for public procurement in Scotland, and it is a right of suppliers to express any concerns they may have about a specific tender exercise through the Scottish Government’s Single Point of Enquiry (SPoE), which offers independent advice.

It’s also a myth that SMEs are not a priority in public sector procurement. Written into Scots law as the Sustainable Procurement Duty, buyers have a duty to engage with SME businesses to support local employment and retain wealth locally.

The benefits to winning public sector contracts are many, including: ● No debt risk as public bodies have a legal duty to pay SME supplier invoices within 30 days, or ten days if the SME has a cash flow issue ● Stability for your business through potential uncertainty, such as the current coronavirus crisis, or economic downturns. Public services still need to be delivered, so your business will benefit from a relatively stable and durable customer base ● Marketing mileage from having a large customer like a public body.

The Supplier Development Programme (SDP) was set up in 2008 by Scottish local authorities as a free service for bid support and tender training for SME businesses. It’s now grown to become a partnership of all 32

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Tender loving care With £11 billion of public sector work up for grabs in Scotland every year, successful tendering can bring many benefits. Here, we shatter some of the most popular myths about the process and reveal how careful planning can help you take your first steps on the ladder

How do I access training in bid writing?

MYTH

FACT

Contracts are awarded on the lowest price

Value for money, and not price alone, decides most procurement decisions

The same suppliers win all the contracts

All contract opportunities must be advertised on Public Contracts Scotland, and are not automatically re-awarded.

Tenders are evaluated on quality and price, and go to the best supplier

Contracts only go to big Buyers often split large contracts into smaller lots to create more suppliers opportunities for SMEs There’s no chance to talk to buyers faceto-face

Meet the Buyer events are the perfect opportunity to meet public sector buyers face-to-face, introduce your business and learn about upcoming contract opportunities

•Public Sector Procurement in Scotland.

Scottish local authorities, Scottish Government and other public bodies that work together to bring free support in all aspects of tendering to Scottishbased SMEs. SELECT joined SDP in 2019 as its first trade association member and has already hosted one free tender training course late last year.

SDP helps businesses that are often too small to have dedicated bid/tender resources to contemplate bidding for a public sector contract. Through a programme of free training and events, it aims to help them become “tender ready” and improve their prospects when competing for opportunities.

What is Meet the Buyer?

Meet the Buyer connects the Scottish business base with senior procurers, decision-makers and influencers from

across local and central government and the wider public sector. Partnered by the Scottish Government and Scotland Excel, Meet the Buyer is held on an annual basis. SDP is following the latest COVID-19 advice issued by the Scotish Government and it is unlikely that the next event, due to be held on 2 June at the EIC in Edinburgh, will go ahead. However, Meet The Buyer events allow buyers to engage with suppliers looking to enter into, or grow their share of, the £11 billion Scottish public procurement market.

Unlike most exhibition events, the essence of exhibitions is to promote your goods, services and works in a unique ‘reverse-expo’, i.e. the buyer hosts an exhibition space and you make your way round to meet them face-to-face and discuss upcoming opportunities.

SDP is the foremost free training programme for procurement and bidding in Scotland, with almost 16,000 businesses registered.

Its introductory training helps companies, supported businesses and social enterprises with little or no experience of tendering to decide if it’s for them and, if so, how to go about it.

The most popular courses break down Public Contracts Scotland into manageable steps, give tips on finding contract opportunities, and how to publish the Supplier Finder profile – a must if you want to be invited to participate in a ‘quick quote’.

The intermediate level of SDP training is aimed at businesses that have some experience of tendering, but would like to become more proficient.

Finally, companies and social enterprises with plenty of experience and success of tendering can access advanced training that helps them explore potential new markets (including overseas), routes of redress and contract management.

SMEs are encouraged to self-select training from any level, in any order.

After registering for free on the SDP website, they can attend any training event in Scotland.

Usually offered in two formats – faceto-face and digital via webinar – SDP is concentrating on digital delivery from the comfort of your own desk for the foreseeable future.

All training is delivered by qualified, scrutinised trainers who successfully bid for the SDP training framework through Public Contracts Scotland.

Some of the same private consultants who offer paid-for bid writing are the experts who help SME businesses for free through SDP. SELECT will be hosting an Introduction to Tendering webinar later this year. To find out more about tendering and Meet the Buyer, visit www.sdpscotland.co.uk or call SELECT Training on 0131 445 5577.

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SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Aico to launch community for Expert Installers Aico will soon be launching the Aico Installer Community, a connected online community built to support Expert Installers. This community will provide a platform for electrical contractors to discover opportunities, interact and engage with one another to share knowledge and earn rewards.

At the heart of Aico is education, quality, service and innovation which is demonstrated in the free, CPD-accredited training, available all over the UK. Aico’s award-winning Expert Installer training, delivered by knowledgeable Regional Specification Managers, provides electrical contractors with updates on legislation, products and technologies and facilitates the sharing of best practice.

This training also provides all of the information that they require to select, site, install and maintain Aico alarms to the highest quality.

The online community provides opportunities for Expert Installers to network and connect with fellow professionals, participate in discussions and expand knowledge. Members will be able to access the knowledge base within the community, view FAQs, how-to videos and new technical bulletins.

Challenges will facilitate learning and development and enable members to accumulate points to redeem 40

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rewards and be entered into monthly draws, including the chance to win an all-expenses paid trip to Holland to watch the British Superbikes championship.

You will be eligible to join the community if you have completed your training after 1 May 2019. To update your training or become an Expert Installer, sign up at www.aico.co.uk/becomean-aico-expert-installer Aico, an Ei Company, is the UK market leader in domestic fire and carbon monoxide protection, leading the way in home life safety by pioneering new technologies and offering high quality alarms with a wide range of sensor types to ensure every home is protected. ● For more information and to register your interest in joining the Aico Installer Community visit www.aico.co.uk/ community

APRIL/MAY 2020

PRODUCT SHOWCASE Our guide to the latest 1 AURORA MAKES LIGHT WORK OF CREATING THE RIGHT ATMOSPHERE

Does your customer come home every day when it’s dark? They could schedule their lights to come on at that time of day and customise them to their taste.

Do they have a dining table where they want different lighting from the rest of the kitchen? The AOne Strip Controller enables colours to change in different areas of the room and can be controlled using the AOne remote or voice control to create the desired ambience.

What if they want the lights to automatically come on when entering the kitchen? The AOne PIR Sensor and Door/Window Sensors are perfect for automated lighting.

Whatever the client wants to achieve in their kitchen, the benefits with Aurora’s AOne are endless. Visit auroralighting.com

3 MAKE SURE YOU’RE NEVER LOCKED OUT AGAIN WITH KNIPEX TWINKEY Whether you’re dealing with gas and water supply, fuse boxes or air conditioning, the KNIPEX TwinKey is designed to open all established locking systems.

It has two four-way cross keys magnetically held together, making up eight arms but taking up little space. When unclamped the keys remain connected to each other by a stable stainless steel wire, so they won’t get lost.

Both sides of the universal key have different coated surfaces (matte and shiny) and weighing in at just 135g and only 92mm, it fits in any pocket.

Whether you need to gain

access to water supplies, air con units, shut-off systems or even access roads, you’ll never have to wonder if you’ve got the right key again. For more details visit www.knipex.com

CONTACT OUR TEAM TO SHOWCASE YOUR GREAT NEW PRODUCTS HERE

industry solutions 2 BIGGER AND BETTER CATALOGUE IS NOW PACKED WITH 30,000 PRODUCTS CEF, the UK’s leading electrical wholesaler, is celebrating the launch of its new trade catalogue. Produced three times a year, the latest edition is the biggest yet at 1,764 pages.

It’s packed with almost 30,000 products from exclusive in-house and leading brand suppliers.

More than 1,000 new products have been added, including a number of 18th Edition compliant surge protection products and RCDs. In addition, the new catalogue highlights CEF’s lowest priced everyday trade essentials in a handy insert and features a full range of cable and cable accessories, switchgear and distribution products, an extensive assortment of lighting and wiring accessories, hand tools

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Consultation on retention payments in the construction industry: The responses.

By Gavin Thomson Partner, MacRoberts LLP

and industrial controls.

“We’re thrilled to launch our largest catalogue to date” stated Andrew Moseley, CEF’s Commercial Director.

To find out more about CEF, or to order your FREE copy of the catalogue call in to any of CEF’s 391 stores nationwide or got to cef.co.uk

4 SNICKERS LITEWORK IS THE COOL AND COMFORTABLE CHOICE FOR SUMMER A change of season means a change of focus on what you wear on site. Snickers new LITEWork clothing can help you keep your cool while working in warm and humid environments.

The ergonomic, body-mapping trousers, shirts, shorts, mid-layer jackets and windproofers have all the comfort and functionality of other Snickers Workwear stretch garments but give extra freedom of movement. Just like high performance sportswear, they are super-light, quickdrying garments – with ventilation and moisture transport features – that keep you looking smart and feeling cool wherever you are on site in warm weather.

To get the right protection, flexibility, durability and ventilation, check out Snickers Workwear. Call 01484 854 788, go to www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk

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

The use of retentions in the construction industry has long been a source of contention. Traditionally retention payments were seen as means of providing security for defective work or the insolvency of subcontractors. However, the industry’s approach to retention has contributed to late payment and, often, non-payment.

Carillion’s collapse and the government’s commitment to tackling payment issues led the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial to introduce a consultation on retention payments in the construction industry. It closed in January 2018, and a summary of the responses has now been published.

The consultation sought to review the effectiveness of existing measures for recovery of retention, the number of unjustified late and non-payment of retention monies, and the effectiveness of alternative mechanisms.

The summary highlights that more than 80% of respondents believed the existing measures for prompt and fair payment of retentions were ineffective. In terms of non-payment, it was noted that a majority of respondents believed the insolvency of

upstream contractors was a significant issue. While the current mechanism protects upstream contractors from sub-contractor insolvency, the same isn’t true in reverse.

The consultation explored alternatives to retention, including using third party deposit schemes. The majority of respondents agreed such a scheme would offer greater security and lead to greater transparency but it was also noted that deposit schemes could be overly complex and potentially a big admin burden. The possibility of banning retention payments was proposed by many. However, others noted that projects are rarely defect free and without retention payments it would be harder to get contractors back to rectify defects.

In terms of next steps, the summary is fairly vague, noting the government’s intention to work with the construction industry on resolving the problems, with several options under consideration. However, what those are, and when we are likely to see policy brought forward is difficult to predict.

Given current affairs, it may be some time yet. ● To find out more, email gavin.thomson@macroberts. com or call 0131 248 2162.

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DIARY STAFF

GETTING TO KNOW YOU Linda Rolfe

Events, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Hello Linda, how long have you been at SELECT?

I’ve been at The Walled Garden for around six months now.

What were you doing before you joined SELECT? Tell us a bit about your background I was doing marketing at a power tool company in County Durham in the north-east of England before moving to Midlothian. Before this I also did marketing in the leisure and culture department at my local county council, dealing with a variety of events, social media and marketing activities.

What does your job entail?

Tell us more about what you do

I spend a lot of time planning and booking events for Members such as the SELECT Awards, Toolbox Talks and drop-in sessions with reps. I also plan and create content for all the SELECT social media channels, put together our monthly e-newsletter, Switched On, help keep our websites updated, organise branded merchandise and liaise with our design teams on online and offline marketing collateral.

What’s a typical day like for you at work? Tell us about some of the things you do in an average day in the SELECT office?

No two days are the same, but I’ll usually spend time updating our websites and social media channels to ensure our messaging is reaching the right people on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

I might also speak to different venues to check that upcoming meetings and events are all in hand, answer Member queries and order SELECT merchandise and print for upcoming events.

Do you get the chance to meet SELECT Members?

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“I love being able to think up different ways to promote the fantastic work SELECT does”

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

I joined just before the SELECT Awards 2019, which was great as I got to meet a lot of Members in a social environment and help them celebrate their achievements in the industry. I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to meet more Members throughout the coming year – hopefully in lots of Scottish destinations that I’ve not been to before.

I love being able to expand my ability to think of different ways to promote all the fantastic work that SELECT does, as well as planning all the events we now do, and thinking of new ideas that will benefit our Members.

I certainly know a lot more now than I did before! I knew some of the tools and services involved with being an electrician from my work at the power tool company, but I now get to know more about the life of an electrician and the big factor of regulation for electricians. Like many people, I was shocked to find out that our industry isn’t regulated and that anyone can call themselves an electrician.

What do you find most enjoyable about your job at SELECT?

● To contact Linda, email linda.rolfe@ select.org.uk or call 0131 445 5577.

QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS: Cheese or chocolate? Oh that’s a tough one… cheese!

Dog or cat person? Dog First car owned? A blue Nissan Micra that lasted under a week Favourite film? The Notebook Favourite TV show? Peaky Blinders and Game of Thrones Favourite holiday spot? Anywhere hot with my favourite people Dream date? Jenson Button Favourite colour? Blue One thing people might not know about you? I was a crew manager for the Senior GB Dragonboating Team in 2015 in Niagara, Canada

Keep up to date with SELECT Due to the ongoing coronavrius outbreak, all SELECT meetings and events are currently postponed. We will update Members with new information as soon as possible.

In the meantime, follow our website www.select.org.uk and social media channels for the latest developments Twitter @Updates_SELECT

Facebook SELECT.TheECAofS

@Training_SELECT @Regulate_SELECT select.org.uk select.org.uk/training cabletalkmagazine.com selectawards.co.uk HELPLINES Technical Advice Helpline: 0131 445 5577 or email technicalhelp@select.org.uk Health & Safety Helpline (BSG): 0300 304 9099 Employment Advice Helpline: 0131 445 9216

Legal Helpline (MacRoberts): 0141 303 1111 Commercial Support (Len Bunton): 07769 670 089 Main switchboard: 0131 445 5577 or email admin@select.org.uk

The Walled Garden, Bush Estate, Midlothian EH26 0SB Tel: 0131 445 5577 Fax: 0131 445 5548 admin@select.org.uk