CABLEtalk December 2017/January 2018

December 2017/ January 2018 £4.50

WIN

£50 OF VOUCHERS PAGE 42

A bright future We get up close with Apprentice of the Year Jordan McBain PAGES 14&15

17

Technical update: IP ratings special

22

Training and Skills Development Committee needs new members

26

Next steps to ladder safety

CONTENTS DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018 NEWS

06 07

Revealed – the latest association members from across Scotland All the most recent updates from SELECT and the wider industry

OPINION

COVER STORY

14

Jordan McBain reflects on his Apprentice of the Year victory

05

FROM THE MD

13

Alan Wilson: Why it’s essential for rogues to be held accountable

FEATURES

20 24 28 30 32 IP PROTECTION

17

Business leader interview with RICS Regional Director Gail Hunter Steve Martin outlines the work of the Fire and Security Association Need a little help? The Electrical Industries Charity is here for you Why electrical recycling is vital, by green guru Shaun Donaghey How today’s charging revolution could power up your business too

FOCUS

34 37 38

A technical update from Bob Cairney

WE NEED YOU...

22

Newell McGuiness talks about how we’re simplifying the skills issue

Join the Training and Skills Development Committee

Elaine Ellis on the importance of always making training relevant Winners of First & Second Stage Apprentice of the Year Awards Rudi Klein reveals two key dates in the upcoming retentions battle

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

40

Our handy guide to four new products hitting the shelves

DIARY LADDER SAFETY

26

Jim Cornwall’s advice on working safely at height

42

Meet branch chairman Donald Orr, plus our prize festive wordsearch

Note: The second part of Len Bunton’s contractual update will appear in the February/March issue of CABLEtalk.

CABLEtalk

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

3

COMMENT

Skills – it’s simple

D

uring the summer I was bemoaning the fact that the UK skills arena was a complete guddle – well, it’s not getting any better! The November publication of the Government review of the statutory Industry Training Boards (ITBs) is the latest demonstration of the uncertainty that is rife in the sector. Coming on the back of the introduction of the UK apprenticeship levy, the demise of sector skills councils and the introduction of (trailblazer) industry standards, to name but a few, the ITBs review presents yet another challenge for employers. It does, however, provide clarity that government wants to see effective ITBs remain, with the emphasis on effective!

Certainly, the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has been set some stiff challenges, and going forward it will be a more focused and smaller organisation.

Out go many of its frontline training delivery and related activities and in comes a concentration on monitoring and improving the quality of training delivery and dealing particularly with areas where there is market failure or a need for collective action.

There will be more focus on small businesses and a much more collaborative approach with the wider construction industry and its trade associations and training providers, primarily

“SELECT and its industry partners are some way down the road to ensuring we have all the right pieces in place”

to ensure no duplication of effort. These and many other changes will be challenging for CITB, but there is every reason to have confidence that its new Chief Executive, Sarah Beale, will deliver.

While the ITBs review is unsettling to the skills and training landscape, the realignment of CITB to its core activities is probably good news for the electrical sector, as fewer distractions for our employers from CITB will allow the electrical industry to get on with dealing with its own challenges.

SELECT and its industry partners are already some way down the road to ensuring we have all the right pieces in place. Our aim is to simplify matters, so it becomes easy for electrical contractors to engage with skills issues and provide the training and development that supports their people and meets the needs of their business and its clients. SECTT is in a strong position, with apprentice numbers continuing to grow organically, strong commitment from government to “real” apprenticeships and several significant resource milestones hit that secure a sustainable financial future.

SELECT’s new Skills and Training Development Committee will start work in 2018 and BSE Skills Ltd is poised to respond to Skills Development Scotland’s invitation to tender to take over key SummitSkills tasks. We are also working closely with SDS, the Scottish Apprenticeship Advisory Board and English colleagues around future needs for the electrical industry.

So while skills issues at a UK level are a real guddle, it feels like we have many positives in Scotland and a good handle on what needs to be done. We remain firmly on track to deliver our thematic goal: SELECT – Excellence in Skills.

By Newell McGuiness Managing Director, SELECT CABLEtalk

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

5

EDITOR’S NOTE DEAR MEMBERS

December 2017/ January 2018 £4.50

WIN

£50 OF VOUCHERS PAGE 42

A bright future We get up close with Apprentice of the Year Jordan McBain PAGES 14&15

update: Training and Skills Development Next steps to 22 Committee 17 IPTechnical ratings special needs new members 26 ladder safety

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

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

A

very warm welcome to the final CABLEtalk of 2017. I hope it’s been a good year personally and professionally and that you’re now ready to put your feet up for a well-earned festive break.

It’s been a busy year in the pages of CABLEtalk, and this edition is no different. Following on from our SELECT Awards special in the last issue, we caught up with Apprentice of the Year Jordan McBain and his workmate and fellow finalist Jordan Scott. It was good to hear about their hopes for the future – and also to know that banter is alive and well in the workplace if you happen to win a major award! Hear what they said on page 14.

Technical updates are always a welcome addition to our line-up, and Bob Cairney has written his usual thorough article, this time in a special three-page report about IP ratings.

You’ll find it on pages 15, 16 and 17.

Safety is also on the agenda, courtesy of an interview with Steve Martin from the Fire and Security Association (page 24) and an update from SELECT’s Bob Cornwall about watching your step when it comes to using ladders (page 26).

I also particularly

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

6

CABLEtalk

Iain Mason Editor, CABLEtalk

l MORE NEWS & UPDATES l MORE EVENTS & PICTURES l MORE TO READ & DISCOVER www.cabletalkmagazine.com

The Walled Garden Bush Estate Midlothian EH26 0SB Tel: 0131 445 5577 CABLEtalk is the official magazine of SELECT and is distributed free to qualifying readers.

enjoyed talking to Shaun Donaghey from Electrical Waste about what we do well – and not so well – when it comes to recycling . His thoughts are on page 30.

Elsewhere, as the weather turns colder, the retentions battle is hotting up. As Rudi Klein explains on page 36, there are now two key dates in the Commons calendar for January as the fight for a deposit scheme continues.

To get you in the festive mood, we’re also giving away £50 of Amazon vouchers with our special Christmas wordsearch. Grab a pen and go-ho-ho to page 42 for a chance of winning the perfect stocking filler. On the same page, you’ll find an interview with Donald Orr, Chairman of the Lanarkshire Branch, as we’ve decided to broaden the remit of our Getting To Know You feature.

Finally, and on a serious note, this time of year is not always enjoyable for everyone, with stress and depression all too common. However, the Electrical Industries Charity is here to help those in our sector who may be struggling – find out about their fantastic and invaluable work on page 28.

Whatever you’re doing this festive season, I wish you a very Merry Christmas. Here’s to a successful – and safe – 2018.

NEW MEMBERS

10 firms have become SELECT Members since November 2017

South West Group (Scotland) Ltd Stranraer

TNC Electrics - Penicuik

Starkstrom (Scotland) - Paisley

HSN Electrical - Kirkliston

DWT Electrical Services Ltd - Kilwinning CEA Electrical Ltd - Glasgow Gourlay Electrical Services - Glenrothes

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

Callum Duncan Electrical - Blairgowrie LTES Scotland Ltd - Largs River Clyde Property Management Ltd Greenock

NEWS SELECT

Branch donates to Doddie charity Nearly 100 members and guests from the Dumfries & Galloway Branch of SELECT attended a recent dinner at the Woodlands Hotel, just outside Dumfries.

Branch chair, Gordon Paterson, ably assisted by committee members John Wilson and Colin Johnstone, organised a great event with contributions from excellent after-dinner speakers, Colin Gibson and Joe Cammay.

Colin decided to donate his fee to a very worthwhile charity – The Doddie Weir Trust – and the branch has decided to make a donation to the same charity.

Branch chair Gordon Paterson (second left) with guests at the branch dinner

Fresh review of building standards is welcomed...

T

he Scottish Government should seize the chance of a new review into building standards to make sure that its own approved certifier schemes become mandatory across the construction industry.

That was our view in response to November’s Review Panel on Building Standards (Compliance and Enforcement).

The review was prompted by an independent report into the closure of 17 Edinburgh schools last year after the collapse of a wall at Oxgangs Primary, and the tragic events this year at Grenfell Tower in

…but SELECT calls for mandatory use of approved verifier schemes London. SELECT welcomed the review panel and said that it looked forward to working with the relevant bodies with a view to helping to introduce real change into the Scottish building standards system.

Dave Forrester, Head of Technical Services, said: “Parts of the building standards regime work very well. Technical standards, for instance, are flexible enough to accommodate change and innovation. However, there are a number of issues surrounding approved certification which we think the review could profitably

address to remove anomalies and build confidence in the certification process.”

Dave pointed out that approved certifiers are directly responsible for the work that is certified under a building warrant. Local Authority Building Standards Scotland (LABSS), the membership organisation representing verifiers, has issued guidelines regarding certification services.

Some local authorities, however, are still either unaware of or ignoring the LABSS guidance and CABLEtalk

accepting forms of certification without detailed scrutiny.

He said: “The review is an excellent and thoughtful response to the issues raised by recent tragic events.

It is an opportunity to really consider the regime of compliance and enforcement and embrace meaningful change.

“This is the ideal moment to make it a mandatory requirement to use the existing approved certifier schemes, particularly for government-funded work, and to extend the process to all Schedule 3 work [work subject to building regulations but not requiring a warrant].”

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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NEWS SELECT

The class of 2017 lines up at the Walled Garden

Celebrating a decade of success

I

t’s been ten years since the first students embarked on their journey towards the Graduate Certificate in Management, run jointly by SELECT and Edinburgh Napier University.

Since then, more than 150 managers have improved their learning of what makes a great leader, and have been able to add value to many organisations as a result.

The programme consists of nine workshops run over a year, each on a different aspect of management. The areas covered include the skills of good management; improving communication and building great teams; an introduction to coaching; managing change; recruitment and motivating staff.

The students get a chance to think 8

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about their own teams and the challenges they face, and there are opportunities to learn from each other and take tangible ideas back to work.

The course is really practical in nature, which surprises some students who perhaps think a university course would

“I was able to take ideas straight back and use them, which was great.

It definitely improved my management skills” James, former student

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

be all theory and academic learning.

Students are encouraged to share experiences and ideas, and the formal assignments inspire students to ‘try out’ some of the things they have learned on their course back at work.

“I didn’t think it would be so practical and so relevant for me” said James, a previous student. “I was able to take ideas straight back and use them, which was great. It definitely improved my management skills as a result.”

This year, 16 students from 12 organisations – all members of SELECT – started the programme in September, and are now well on their way to writing their first assignments. We will be inviting applications for the 2018 programme in July, so watch this space for more information.

A new look and a new name for ECA The Electrical Contractors’ Association has undergone a rebrand and is now known simply as ECA. The electrotechnical and engineering services trade body has also unveiled a new logo, which incorporates its updated strapline: Excellence in Electrotechnical and Engineering Services.

CABLEtalk

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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NEWS SELECT / INDUSTRY

Alex Neil MSP accepts his award from SELECT president Kevin Griffin (left)

Alex lifts SELECT award at Scottish Politician of the Year ceremony SELECT was once again delighted to sponsor the 2017 Award for Committee MSP of the Year at the Herald Scottish Politician of the Year Awards.

The event, held in the Prestonfield House Hotel in Edinburgh, was a great opportunity to promote SELECT and its message over regulation of the industry to a wide and influential audience.

It also received extensive coverage in the Scottish media (right).

Handing over the trophy to winner Alex Neil MSP, SELECT president

Kevin Griffin said: “SELECT recognises and supports the important role that parliamentary committees play in conducting inquiries, scrutinising legislation and holding the government to account.

“Alex met and exceeded what is required of a good committee member. They are inquisitive, they enjoy examining the details of proposed legislation and they support democracy by also holding the law makers to account.”

READ ALAN WILSON’S VIEWPOINT: Page 13

RW Bell celebrates its platinum anniversary SELECT Member RW Bell (Electrical) Ltd recently enjoyed a birthday bash to celebrate its 70th anniversary.

Managing Director Stephen Carruthers hosted the party in the clubhouse of Pitlochry Golf Club for 10

CABLEtalk

past and present staff of the firm, which is also based in Pitlochry.

Newell McGuiness, SELECT managing director, said: “It’s a great achievement for the firm to reach this milestone in the turbulent world of

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

construction. The previous MD of the company, Ford Carruthers, was also a past president of SELECT and it’s good to see his son Stephen carry on the good work of his father in the business and in his work with SELECT.”

Surge of interest in launch of first technical video As previewed in the last edition of CABLEtalk, SELECT has launched the first in what will be a growing series of technical update videos.

Produced by our technical team, and focusing on devices that protect against surges, the video is now available to view on our website at www.select.org.uk The video uses a mix of live video, narration and diagrams to explain the dangers of surge protection and the measures that can be taken to protect a variety of installations.

Dave Forrester, SELECT’s Head of Technical Services, said: “The video is designed to be viewed easily on phone, tablet and desktop – so advice will always be at hand whenever you need it.”

The easy-to-follow video has been put together by one of our own technical advisors, Mark McLaughlin, who researched the subject, developed the script, and did the original Toolbox Talks on which it is based.

Ayrshire shines in electrical quiz The recent round of SELECT branch meetings featured a technical quiz which tested Members’ knowledge of changes introduced in earlier editions of the wiring regulations and older working practices and wiring systems.

The multi-choice test was taken by all attendees at the eight branch meetings, and we are pleased to announce that the winning branch was Ayrshire. The Inverness & North of Scotland branch was runner-up.

All I really want for Christmas is...

JOHN BLACKWOOD, Chief Executive, Scottish Association of Landlords

● A magic wand to change the misconceptions about private landlords. ● A warm winter that prevents frozen assets. ● No more legislation burdened with unnecessary baubles. ● Making sure rogue landlords are skating on thin ice. ● Silent Nights…and quiet tenants. ● And safe electrics, so no nuts are roasting on an open fire!

FIONA HARPER, Secretary, the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB)

● For employers to be more like Santa! With no engagement surveys, we can only assume Santa’s workforce is committed based on their 100% on-time and to budget wish fulfilment every year. Santa is widely reported as jolly which just might be the key to positive employee engagement.

So, as an employer, resolve to be more jolly in 2018 and see what

BRUCE DICKSON, Regional Director – Scotland, BAM Construction Ltd

● For Michel Barnier to announce that the EU were only messing and of course the UK can keep their current trading deal after Brexit. ● Santa to immediately put on the naughty list every contractor and subcontractor that doesn’t put health and safety and sustainability

happens to your engagement scores on the next survey. ● For employers to create a Santa-like brand strength. Work on a clear definition of your brand as a set of values and promises made to customers. Communicate these clearly to your elves/ employees. Remember that these elves/employees represent your brand every day, so resolve to understand and fulfill their expectations and aspirations as best you can.

For a bit of fun, we asked industry figures who’ve appeared in CABLEtalk this year for their Christmas wish-list at the top of their letter to him. ● For the industry to wake up on Christmas Day and realise that we’re all just one big happy family and that all the arguments, conflicts and sniping aren’t making us happy.

We all decide to heal the rifts and work out how we can all be in the same room together to watch the Sound of Music without arguments over who got the best present.

ANNE GALBRAITH, Chief Executive, Scottish Educational Charitable Training Trust

I’d like all the apprentices across Scotland to continue to grow, learn and develop in 2018, giving our industry a bright future.

CABLEtalk

PROFESSOR RUDI KLEIN, SEC Group CEO

My one wish is the same as ever – cash retentions deposited in a statutory ring-fenced account.

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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NEWS INDUSTRY

Dimplex gets switched on to Lot 20

Lot 20 impacts electric heaters

Glen Dimplex Heating & Ventilation has launched a dedicated new website about the upcoming Lot 20 regulations.

The new site – www.lot20. co.uk – is designed to help contractors, installers, merchants and wholesalers get to grips with how the new standard will affect electrical heating appliances.

It will also provide up-to-

date information on the incoming legislation, which is set to be the biggest shake-up of electric heating in decades.

From January 2018, all local space heaters manufactured for sale into the EU must comply with a minimum efficiency standard under Lot 20 of the Energy Efficiency Directive, a measure aimed at phasing out inefficient technologies

Revealed: How to make the perfect tradesman’s tea Experts have finally cracked a puzzle that’s baffled the industry for decades – how to make the perfect cup of tradesman’s tea.

The new Dos and Don’ts guide

by Leasevan.co.uk claims to solve the age-old arguments over whether to add milk or hot water first and what type of tea to use.

The company issued the fun guidelines after feedback from workers claimed that customers were failing to make a properly strong brew to keep their energy up.

The guide says the mug must not be too large, as it will cause the tea to go cold quickly. It must be warmed with 12

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and reducing energy usage compliant products in homes. with new algorithm-driven It means that all local smart features. space heaters using Christian Hadley, Head electricity, gaseous or liquid of Product Marketing at Glen fuels must comply with a Dimplex Heating & minimum efficiency Ventilation, said: “Now is a standard, including crucial time for the trade to electric panels, get up to date on radiators, storage what this gameSee the heaters and changing next edition of regulation electric fires. means for The site CABLEtalk for an electrical provides in-depth feature by heating guidelines on Glen Dimplex Heating appliances, how Lot 20 & Ventilation on the many of will affect potential impact which have popular of Lot 20 been redesigned electrical heating with smart new appliances, explains features to meet the how the legislation will new regulations. affect individual customer “We hope our dedicated types, and also offers an Lot 20 website will prove to online product efficiency be an essential resource in calculator tool. the coming months as the It also features FAQs industry adjusts to tighter and useful tips for installers efficiency standards.” on optimising Lot 20

hot water first, with boiling water then poured over the teabag to release flavour – with milk never added first.

Leasevan say the cuppa should be allowed to brew for around one minute, then the bag squashed against the side of the mug several times for flavour.

Add just a dash of milk to keep it strong, aiming for a light brown colour. For a

perfect finish, add two biscuits or a slice of cake.

Leasevan’s Tim Alcock said: “We’re supposed to be a nation of tea drinkers, but many people don’t know how to make a proper worker’s brew.

“Tradesmen often talk about anaemic tea that isn’t going to give them the energy they need. Now there’s no excuse to get it wrong.”

DOS AND DON’TS FOR A PROPER CUPPA Do: ● Use a teabag – never loose leaves ● Pour as soon as the kettle has boiled ● Leave to brew properly to ensure it’s strong ● Serve with a couple of biscuits like digestives or rich tea

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

Don’t: ● Use brown sugar – only white ● Use decaffeinated tea, or any other variation like Earl Grey ● Serve in a china mug – only ceramic ● Use watery skimmed milk

COMMENT

Why we must hold rogues to account

By Alan Wilson Head of Membership and Communications, SELECT

S

ELECT was pleased to sponsor the Committee MSP of the Year at the recent Herald Scottish Politician of the Year Awards. The event, held in Edinburgh, was a great opportunity to promote SELECT, and in particular its message on regulating the industry, to Scottish politicians, key industry decision-makers and clients.

Our table guests included Angela Constance, Cabinet Secretary for Communities, Social Security and Equalities, Patrick Harvie, leader of the Scottish Green party, and Adam Tomkins MSP. SELECT sponsored the award as it recognises and supports the important role parliamentary committees play in conducting inquiries, scrutinising legislation and holding the government to account.

The winner of our award, Alex Neil MSP, ably demonstrated that a good committee member should be inquisitive, enjoy examining the

“They have little or no interest in health and safety and play no part in training the future workforce” details of proposed legislation, and support the principles of democracy by holding law-makers to account.

All of the above are admirable, and indeed, necessary skills of a good committee member. But what’s the relevance of this to the electrical sector in Scotland? Well, as the only trade association representing electrical contractors in Scotland, SELECT is accountable to every single one of its 1,250 Members.

The initial contact from a Member is often via their local SELECT branch and any Member reading this article can choose to attend a local branch meeting and ask questions of the branch or SELECT officials present.

Branches also elect office bearers who represent Member views to SELECT’s Central Board. The Board’s roles are: ●●to make decisions on future SELECT policy ●●review and comment on activities undertaken by SELECT ●●consider and comment on financial statements ●●generally oversee and guide our activities.

SELECT also operates other operational committees that deal with issues such as employment, skills and training and technical issues. Again, these are populated by representatives from member companies, which reinforces SELECT’s accountability.

But what about the others that claim to represent the sector? Where does their accountability lie? How accountable is a certification body that has customers and not members?

Who are they accountable to?

Accountability also features in many of our political campaigns and lobbying. As readers will know, we are currently pressing the Scottish Government to introduce statutory regulation of the profession, with Protection of Title as the first stage.

By its very nature, this action will both discourage rogue traders and ensure better consumer protection.

Our aim, which is shared by the industry trade union and many others, is to stop rogues calling themselves electricians and to make it a criminal offence to call yourself an electrician if you’re not properly qualified.

At the moment, these rogues are accountable to no one. They operate in a black, or at best grey, economy and live off the back of the properlyqualified industry.

They do not update their training, they have little or no interest in health and safety – their own or that of their customers – and they play no part in training the workforce of the future.

So we are pressing the Scottish Government to introduce legislation that would make them accountable and at the same time make all of our lives a little safer.

Surely no-one would argue with this… or would they?

CABLEtalk

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FEATURES APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

Rising stars

Jordan McBain with his award

Two talented youngsters from G&A Barnie Group made the final of Apprentice of the Year at this year’s SELECT Industry Awards. Here, winner Jordan McBain reveals the ribbing he now gets from colleagues, and along with namesake and fellow finalist, Jordan Scott, outlines his future plans It still shocks me when people come up and say congratulations for winning Apprentice of the Year – I’m still getting colleagues I don’t really know saying well done, which takes a bit of getting used to.

The night itself was really good – much more prestigious than I thought.

I didn’t know what to expect, so I was shocked when I turned up and there were hundreds of people dressed to the nines. I took my girlfriend, mum and little sister and they really enjoyed it.

Never in a million years did I think I was going to win. In fact, I thought I’d fluffed the initial interview, so I couldn’t believe it when I was there as one of the final three.

When my name was read out, I remember going up to the stage to collect the award and Gary Mason from co-sponsors Edmundson Electrical said, 14

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‘You can stop shaking now.’ It was genuinely a massive surprise.

After the event ended at 1am, we had a drink with some people from SELECT, and then my girlfriend and I went to the nearby casino. I must have used up all my luck though as I didn’t win anything!

I think my dad has the actual award now.

He works offshore so he couldn’t make the night itself, so it’s probably got pride

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“I really feel like I’m learning and getting better all the time.”

of place in the living room. Going back to work, I got plenty of banter and pelters from everyone. Now, every time that I do something, people say, ‘Would the Apprentice of the Year really be doing that?’ Others say, ‘What’s the point me doing it? We’ve got the Apprentice of the Year, he can do it better.’ I think that’s going to follow me around as long as I’m at Barnie’s.

It felt good to be a finalist in the SELECT Awards – the whole evening was great and I was made to feel really welcome. I got to meet people I otherwise wouldn’t, which was nice.

I haven’t really seen Jordan since the event but like I said to him on the night, he did really well and I’m sure he’ll enjoy his trip to the Schneider facility.

I struggled to get an apprenticeship in the beginning, as the job I was supposed to be getting fell through.

So after going to college and studying electrical engineering for a couple of months, I finally got another chance at an apprenticeship with a local firm in Elgin and never looked back.

Life at the G&A Barnie Group has been good. My last company was mostly domestic, so I came here to expand my experience in the industry by working in more industrial and commercial jobs. As a result, I feel I’ve gained some valuable experience with different wiring systems and containment.

I would say I enjoy learning new things the most. The industry is always changing with new lighting systems and suchlike, so I enjoy getting my head around new things and learning how they work.

I feel I’ve learned a lot as an apprentice. My last company gave me quite a lot of responsibility fairly early on in my apprenticeship, so that gave me the confidence to go on and improve. Working a lot with them in the domestic side of things, and now at G&A Barnie who have a lot of bigger industrial contracts, I feel I’ve a good range of knowledge.

It’s now been a year since I passed the FICA so another year from now I’d like to do the Advanced Competence Assessment (ACA) then we will see where that takes me.

For now, I’m happy just keeping my head down and working away!

do it shows how far I’ve come.

As far as projects go, I’m probably most proud of helping to modernise a school in Lossiemouth. It was just me and my journeyman refurbishing the whole building; replacing sockets and switches and bringing it up to date. We did it in phases over a year and a half.

Facing FICA

I was nervous before my Final Integrated Competence Assessment I’d always wanted to go into the (FICA). The college lecturers made us electrical industry, but I thought prepare for the worst, but once I got into it would be via university. the practical, it wasn’t as bad as I really enjoyed physics at I’d feared. It was the nerves school, so I was planning that made it tough – I G&A Barnie Group to go to uni and do remember picking up Director Sheila electrical engineering. my screwdriver and Barnie, whose husband is company co-founder Alex Then, when I was in really shaking. I had a Barnie, said: “Warmest sixth year, a speaker little timer in my congratulations to both came to my school booth and I was Jordans from everyone at and suggested that I constantly looking at G&A Barnie Group. We are could do the SECTT it, thinking, ‘I’m never very proud to have two pre-employment test. going to do this.’ But candidates progress to Because I was going to once I got going, I just this level.” be applying for summer got into the swing of jobs, I thought it might look things. If I was to offer other good on my CV, so I did it. Then apprentices any advice it would North Electrical Services (NES) be to take your time and not overthink rang me up out of the blue, said they’d it. Don’t think of it as your FICA – just seen my name on the SECTT list and pretend your journeyman is telling you offered me a job. So that was it – I was to wire a couple of sockets. In theory, an apprentice. you’re almost a fully-qualified electrician When I started, I found the theory so it should be second nature. quite easy but the actual practical work was a bit more challenging. I think I’d Looking ahead cut a bit of wood before but that was I’m not sure of what I’ll do next; I just about it, so it took a few months before I hope to become an Approved Electrician felt really confident in what I was doing. as soon as possible. I’ll definitely stay in the electrical industry for a while and Always learning try and go as high as possible; there are I joined G&A Barnie about two-andplenty of other sides to it that are a-half years ago and it’s been great really interesting.

– the bosses are really supportive and For the moment, I’m really looking the other boys are always willing to forward to visiting the Schneider Electric help. I really feel like I’m learning and plant in Grenoble as part of my prize. getting better all the time.

Because it’s a research and development site, it’ll be Things like control panels and good to see what the contactors have probably been the most challenging. I knew how future of the industry switches worked through physics and looks like. stuff, but I think I’ve learned the most about control panels. I’d looked into See the next issue of CABLEtalk things like that for Higher physics at for an interview with the other school, but I always thought, ‘That finalist, Jordan Gilchrist, of would just puzzle me if I had to Boston Networks Ltd. physically wire it.’ Now being able to

Getting started

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Jordan Scott at SELECT awards night

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15

FOCUS TECHNICAL UPDATE

Weathering

the storm What’s in an IP rating? Hopefully not water and moisture. European standards on the degree of protection offered by an electrical enclosure is complicated. Here we decipher the code

By Bob Cairney I Eng MIET Technical Standards Adviser, SELECT

C

an a particular IP rating of an enclosure associated with an item of electrical equipment make it suitable for installation in an outdoor location, or mean that it’s weatherproof?

That’s a question often raised by electrical contractors who, having installed electrical equipment having a specific IP protected enclosure which they think provides suitable protection from water or moisture, then see it fail to achieve the expected degree of protection, resulting in damage to the electrical equipment.

The consequences of this can be

significant costs and inconvenience incurred by all parties involved while trying to resolve the problem. This often results in disputes arising between the installer, the client and the manufacturer when trying to establish who or what is to blame.

What is the International Protection (IP) Code?

The IP code is part of the system used to classify the degree of protection provided by an enclosure and is given in a European standard, BS EN 60529.

The code usually comprises of two

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FEATURES TECHNICAL UPDATE Continued from page 17

numerals. However, there are additional letters and supplementary letters, which are optional and which can be used.

The first numeral – 0 to 6 or letter X – indicates the degree of protection provided against access to a hazardous part and also the degree of protection of enclosed equipment from the ingress of solid foreign objects, such as from a wire or dust.

The second numeral – 0 to 8 or letter X – indicates the degree of protection that the enclosure provides against ingress of water.

Note that the degree of protection provided increases as the classification number increases up to the highest number, where the highest degree of protection is provided.

Where 0 is indicated, this means that the enclosure is not protected for that specification and where a number is replaced by the letter X this indicates that the enclosure has not been rated for that particular specification.

An example

Electrical equipment is to be installed in Zone 1 of a location containing a bath or shower and the requirements in Section 701 of BS 7671 are that installed electrical equipment has to be at least IPX4.

The regulation requires that the enclosure of equipment has been tested such that the electrical equipment is not affected when subject to sprays of water but does not require that it is specifically tested for the degree of protection provided against access to a hazardous part or from ingress of solid foreign objects.

Additional letters

Additional letters can be used if the actual protection against access to hazardous parts is higher than that indicated by the first numeral or if only the protection against access to hazardous parts is being indicated the first numeral having been replaced by the letter X. The additional letters used are as follows: This indicates that protection against access to hazardous parts with the back of the hand 18

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Using equipment with the correct standard of protection is vital

is provided, tested using a 50mm diameter sphere.

This indicates that protection against access to hazardous parts by a finger is provided, tested using a 12mm diameter tool, 100mm in length.

This indicates that protection against access to hazardous parts is provided for tools, tested with a minimum 2.5mm diameter tool, 100mm in length.

This indicates that protection against access to hazardous parts is provided to prevent access with a wire, minimum 1mm diameter, 100mm in length.

Supplementary letters

In the relevant product standard, supplementary information may be indicated by a letter following the second numeral or the additional letter but are not commonly used. The supplementary letters that can be used are:

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this indicates high voltage apparatus.

This indicates that the enclosure has been tested for harmful effect due to ingress of water when the movable parts of the equipment are in motion such as the rotor of an electric motor.

This indicates that the enclosure has been tested for harmful effect due to ingress of water when the movable parts of the equipment are stationary.

This indicates that the equipment is suitable for use under specified weather conditions and provided with additional protective features or processes – this would be something specifically agreed between the manufacturer and user.

Assessing the suitability of an enclosure

BS EN 60529 advises that while the IP classification system is suitable for use with most types of electrical equipment, it should not be assumed that all the listed degrees of protection are applicable to a particular item of equipment.

The manufacturer of the equipment should therefore be consulted to

determine the degree of protection available and the parts of the equipment to which the stated degree of protection applies.

Manufacturers’ instructions are therefore an important part of the process of determining the suitability of an enclosure for a particular environment and need to be carefully considered.

This is also a requirement of BS 7671 which requires in regulation 510.3 of Chapter 51 that: “Every item of equipment shall be selected and erected so as to allow compliance with the regulations stated in this chapter and the relevant regulations in other parts of BS 7671 and shall take account of manufacturer’s instructions.”

Weather conditions

With regard to equipment that will be installed in an outdoor location and which will therefore be subject to exposure to weather conditions, BS EN 60529 does not include specific tests that assess or classify an enclosure’s suitability for use in specified weather conditions.

The prescribed tests are carried out at standard atmospheric conditions, within a temperature range of 15oC to 35oC, relative humidity 25 per cent to 75 per cent, and air pressure 86kPA to 106kPa. The person responsible for the design of the electrical installation will therefore need to assess the suitability of an enclosure for the intended location and should take account of all relevant environmental factors.

This will include the range of temperatures to which the enclosure is likely to be exposed, any expected variations in humidity and other relevant factors such as the likelihood of corrosion, damage due to impact etc.

The applicable IP code relevant to the enclosure should then be assessed together with the manufacturer’s instructions to establish if the enclosure is suitable.

With regard to problems with ingress of water or moisture, the assessment of temperature and humidity will be particularly relevant as variations in these parameters may cause expansion and contraction of the materials used in

the construction of the enclosure and can result in seals or gaskets becoming ineffective and/or condensation forming within it.

This may, in certain instances, require other specific measures to be implemented to prevent such problems occurring, e.g. providing appropriate ventilation, use of anti-condensation heaters or appropriate drainage. This particular measure would, however, reduce the manufacturer’s declared IP rating.

Again, there are requirements contained in Regulation group 512.2 of BS 7671 to consider. Regulation 512.2.1 requires that: “Equipment shall be of a design appropriate to the situation in which it is to be used or its mode of installation shall take account of the conditions likely to be encountered.”

Example of assessing a luminaire to be located outdoors

To assess the suitability of a specific luminaire for use outdoors, BS 7671 requirements mentioned above require consideration and also those regulations contained in Section 714, Outdoor Lighting Installations, which is a special installation or location.

Regulation group 714.512 relates to “operational conditions and external influences”.

Regulation 714.512.2.1 says that when assessing the ambient temperatures for outdoor lighting, the external influence classes AA2 and AA4 are recommended for temperatures ranging from minus 40oC to 40oC. For climatic conditions, classes AB2 and AB4 are recommended for relative humidity ranging between 5 per cent and 100 per cent. The classes recommended for presence of water are a minimum of AD3 (sprays) and for foreign bodies a minimum of AE2 (small objects).

The environmental classes referred are given in another European standard – BS EN 60721 – which provides a method for the classification of environmental conditions but are also given for information in Appendix 5 of BS 7671.

This system also provides recommendations for the characteristics required for the selection and erection

of equipment deemed appropriate to satisfy the classes and in many instances advises that IP rated equipment is required.

For the recommended AA2 and AA4 temperature classification, the characteristics required for selection and erection of equipment would be satisfied by “specially designed equipment or appropriate arrangements”.

For the recommended AB2 and AB4 external classification for atmospheric humidity, the characteristics required would be satisfied by either “appropriate arrangements” or “weather protected locations having neither temperature or humidity control” depending on the air temperature and relative humidity applicable.

For the minimum of AD3 classification for protection against sprays, IPX3 enclosures would be required. For the minimum AE2 classification for foreign bodies, IP3X enclosures would also be required.

The luminaire would therefore need to be a minimum of an IP33 enclosure but would require to be located where it is protected from the weather depending on the temperatures and humidity applicable – the manufacturer’s instructions would be critical to confirm that the equipment is suitable.

To summarise

The IP rating is only one of the factors to be considered when selecting a suitable enclosure for electrical equipment.

All relevant external influences that are likely to be encountered should be assessed taking account of the classification system for this provided in BS EN 60721 and BS 7671 and manufacturer’s instructions require to be considered.

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For additional guidance, please refer to the recently revised BEAMA Guide to IP Codes, available to view or download from the BEAMA website: www.beama.org.uk

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FEATURES BUSINESS LEADER INTERVIEW

By Stewart McRobert Hello Gail. Can you tell us a bit more about the role of RICS? RICS is a global professional body for chartered surveyors. We promote and enforce the highest international standards in the valuation, management and development of land, real estate, construction and infrastructure. We protect the interests of the public and work across government level to deliver a single international standard. Our aim is to support a safe environment and vibrant marketplace that benefits all. Our professionals contribute to everyone’s lives, helping build cities, roads, transport systems, shopping malls, sports stadia and much more.

How do you enforce standards?

We accredit approximately 125,000 trainees and professionals across the world. Every registered individual or firm is subject to our quality assurance, which means they must abide by our codes of conduct – there’s one for individual members and one for firms. If anyone contravenes these codes, our regulations come into effect. For some people, having the RICS qualification gives them a licence to work. Our ultimate sanction is expulsion, so people can lose their livelihood in the most extreme cases.

We expect our members to work to the highest ethical standards and they must demonstrate compliance to our annual continuing professional development guidelines – a minimum of 20 hours every year, 10 of which must be formal and relevant to the job they are doing.

What are the daily challenges you face, as an organisation and in your role?

The organisation’s challenges revolve around the everyday effects of legislation and working practices. Because we’re a global organisation we must keep up with what’s happening around the world, not just in the UK. In Scotland, a particular challenge is making sure that guidance, practice or policy notes that come from our headquarters in London are relevant and applicable north of the border. It’s sometimes difficult to make sure the professionals who operate up here are fully engaged in everything we do. Like many sectors, one of our 20

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Experts on all they survey Gail Hunter is Regional Director, Scotland, of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Here, she talks about the organisation’s worldwide role and how the make up of the profession is changing

challenges is skills shortages. It’s high on our list of priorities and something we are addressing – RICS has a dedicated Future Talent Team who work closely with our partner universities and do the same with schools and colleges.

So how do certain things differ in Scotland to south of the border and further beyond?

Scotland’s rules and regulations are different in many areas, from planning law to buying and selling property.

When Scotland introduced the home report in 2008, RICS was brought in at the start and our expertise helped shape the product. The purpose was to make a thorough assessment of the property available to potential purchasers. It’s been a real success and

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we’re keen to see it introduced in the other home nations. Some of our Scottish-based members work down south and some members based in England practise in Scotland. We try to make sure members have a working knowledge of the different legislation in each country.

How has your industry changed?

And where do you see it heading?

We’ve seen government and parliament gain an appreciation of the expertise property professionals bring to discussions around the built environment. That’s great for us as an organisation. On the residential side, new landlord and property factors legislation comes into effect in Scotland from next year. We believe this is a positive step Gail Hunter

“We will always advocate that people use suitably qualified professionals, whatever job they’re doing” Gail Hunter

RICS AND THE ELECTRICAL SECTOR

and will help deter rogue landlords.

It will also help improve standards in the sector, and lead to an increase in customer satisfaction and trust between tenants and landlords. In other change, we’re seeing a shift from chartered surveying being a male dominated profession. RICS is passionate about diversity and inclusion and it was good to see that last year the number of women undertaking ‘assessment of professional competence’ enrolment (an indication of people coming into the profession) go from 11 per cent of the total to 24 per cent.

When it comes to things like Home Reports, how can surveyors better promote the importance of using properly qualified electricians?

With everything we do, safety is paramount. Having professionals deliver

those services is essential. There are rogues in any profession and while RICS can’t recommend specific individuals or firms we will always advocate that people use suitably qualified professionals, whatever job they’re doing.

How does RICS work with the electrical sector?

There are lots of indirect links between the two and many areas where the professions collaborate – an obvious one would be around building standards. Similarly, RICS professionals with the right knowledge and experience often provide presentations at SELECT training and CPD events. Continued collaboration will bring more benefits and we aim to increase communication with SELECT and its members wherever and whenever we can.

Finally, if you could wave a magic wand and change one thing about your industry, what would it be?

I’d like to see more emphasis on the benefits that surveyors’ professionalism brings and greater recognition that the right standards can have a fantastic effect on a project’s efficiency and costs.

Also, it would be great to see more understanding of what a chartered surveyor does. It’s a really diverse profession. We have people involved in everything from measuring on the seabed to using a drone to carry out their work.

And what about SELECT? We’ve had a professional relationship with SELECT for many years. RICS is always keen to work with likeminded organisations. We have a lot in common – we protect public interest, promote our own industry standards and make sure our industries are represented when it comes to activity at government or local authority level.

On a personal note, Newell McGuiness, managing director of SELECT, often sits on our dispute resolution panels.

He provides an impartial, expert and knowledgeable voice.

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FEATURES MEMBER INVOLVEMENT

Your committee needs YOU The new Training and Skills Development Committee wants at least six new recruits to represent SELECT Members and involve them in the future of the industry. Those with a phobia of meetings and minutes shouldn’t be put off. As Head of Employment Affairs Fiona Harper explains, no previous experience is necessary and the role will involve practical input – not pen-pushing

By Iain Mason

“We really want practical input and for members to keep our feet on the floor and steer us in the right direction” Fiona Harper 22

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S

ELECT is looking for at How the committee could look least six Members to help shape the future of the ■ SELECT Members (6 minimum) electrical industry by ■ Managing Director ■ Head of Employment Affairs joining the newly-created Training and Skills Development Committee.

As its name suggests, the new body will monitor and review all aspects of training and skills development across the industry, and will report to the SELECT Central Board.

Members will air their views and give practical and constructive input to the many issues that affect both SELECT and the wider industry And Head of Employment Affairs, Fiona Harper, insists it’s a golden opportunity for Members to play an important role and be involved at the beginning of the training process. response to consultative documents, She told CABLEtalk: “Most SELECT draw up action plans and review Members train apprentices, but that’s the training material used by both SELECT end product if you like. This is a chance and external providers. to get involved at the very start, and see Fiona added: “We’ve realised we have how the frameworks and strategy are put to be more proactive and give far more together – and more importantly, have a direction and input than ever before. say in how it’s all shaped.

We also need to move forward and “Being part of this committee will give take more of an interest in new Members a voice and keep them involved innovations, in things like electrical both centrally and at a strategic level. vehicle charging courses.

“We also need to understand what “And ultimately of course, the aim is Members want, and the way to do that to have a well-trained workforce that is to talk to them and involve helps everyone’s business grow. them – so that’s what we are “If electricians are trained trying to achieve here. well, have good To volunte er for the “They can give us real apprenticeships and committe e, or for m guidance about what they continuous professional ore informati on about it really want and what development, that’s good s role and functi on, call Fio direction they want to go for both the productivity na on 0131 445 5 577 or em ail her in, rather than us trying of the business and their at fiona.ha rper@sele ct. to think what might be a employability and quality org.uk good idea.” of workmanship.”

Fiona said the committee Fiona, who is also the was being formed following Secretary of the Scottish Joint the closure in March of Industry Board (SJIB), was quick SummitSkills, with which it had to reassure would-be committee previously worked on training strategy Members that the role won’t involve and development. mountains of paperwork.

Meeting three times a year, it will She said: “They’d be now give strategic direction and support reviewing papers and looking to BSE Skills Ltd and other bodies at action plans but only including the Scottish Government, really to make sure that the Scottish Qualifications Authority, we’re on target.

Skills Development Scotland and the “My team and I will be Electrical Contractors’ Association. producing the consultation It will also monitor relevant external documents and doing that organisations and groups, provide a side of the work for them Fiona Harper

■ Office bearers, as required ■ SELECT staff, as required ■ External representatives, as required

– although they could prepare papers themselves if they really wanted to.”

She went on: “What we’re really looking for is practical input of what it’s like in the real world – that part is hugely important to us because we’re not actually out there at the coal face.

“For example, we can come up with an idea and think it’s great, but they’ll be able to tell us, ‘We can’t do that in practice – nobody wants to do it’. So we want these Members to have a real grounding effect on us; keeping our feet on the floor and steering us in the right direction from a practical point of view.

“Plus, if Members are in tune with what we’re doing it helps us keep the momentum and keep going.”

And what if potential recruits have no previous committee experience?

Fiona added: “That doesn’t matter – if people have got experience in training, and if they’ve got ideas about training, that’s what matters. It’s enthusiasm that we’re looking for – and they’ll soon learn how a committee works.”

There is no closing date for entrants, but the first meeting of the new Training and Skills Development Committee is currently pencilled in for Tuesday 27 March.

Fiona said: “If I could receive all inquiries and potential applications by the end of January 2018, it would be very helpful. Please just email or phone me – I don’t mind which.”

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FEATURES FIRE AND SECURITY ASSOCIATION

Safety first

Steve Martin is head of the Fire and Security Association (FSA), an ECA specialist group. Here, he explains the variety of ways it tries to keep us all safe – and how SELECT continues to play an integral role after a decade-long partnership

By Iain Mason Hi Steve. What exactly is the FSA? We’re a specialist group within the ECA, working in partnership with SELECT to represent the whole of the fire and security systems sector in the UK. We represent the practitioners’ perspective, i.e. those who are designing, installing, commissioning, maintaining and monitoring fire, emergency and security systems. Like SELECT, we don’t really have any influence on the manufacturers themselves – it’s more the people who install their systems. Anyone with a specific fire or security accreditation is able to join us too, and we currently have about 280 members What are your aims?

To enhance the credibility and capability of our industry, for example by raising awareness of good practice and seeking to make a positive contribution to industry standards. We also aim to provide high quality services that help our members to succeed and to positively influence the technical, commercial, training and industrial 24

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relations environment in which our members operate. As an example, recently our focus has been on skills to ensure we’re helping them to be maintained and also introducing new ones into the sector, which we’ve been very successful at. And secondly, we carry out lobbying if we think something’s not going to work or will present a burden to the industry. For example, a while ago there was a move towards business licensing for alarm receiving centres, which we felt would have caused problems, which we lobbied successfully against. So we use these lobbying skills to try to ensure that we maintain high standards for everyone.

Why is it important?

You only have to look at something like the Grenfell Tower disaster to see why fire safety has never been more important. It really highlighted the need for having the right skills and right systems put in place, in particular for high-rise buildings. National security is obviously another big issue for all of us too, so ensuring we have the right systems, installed and maintained

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correctly, is tremendously important.

These systems must do what they’re meant to – one that isn’t installed correctly is no use to the police and other enforcing authorities. It’s important that these systems are installed properly and that we’ve got the right people doing that.

What are the most common dangers you warn people about?

Again, after Grenfell, fire safety is currently a big issue. People need to understand their responsibilities when it comes to fire safety in all types of buildings – it’s an issue our members face time and time again. The same is also true for security systems. So it’s vital that the correct surveillance is in place, but it’s equally important for people to understand their responsibilities within that system, and also to keep it well maintained. They’re the constant issues across the board.

How do you gauge members’ views?

The FSA has its own standing committee, which SELECT is part of, that helps us gauge the views of the industry. We also have regional meetings and seminars,

© dominika zarzycka / Shutterstock.com

STEVE ON THE FSA AND SELECT “When the FSA was formed back in 2007, SELECT was one of the first partners to join forces with us.

Strategically it was a very important decision – and still is.

“Ten years on, SELECT is still a very strong partner and we have regular conversations as we work in partnership together. SELECT is also part of our standing committee, so it’s central to the policy engine going forward and an integral part of the FSA. “SELECT’s input is invaluable as we’re mindful that legislation can often be slightly different in Scotland than it is down south. We do collaborate very closely between ECA and SELECT, ensuring that we’ve got the right information out there, but there are some regional variances in the way things are done. That’s why we really represent the FSA within England, Wales and Northern Ireland and SELECT represent us in Scotland thanks to our close partnership.

“So if any SELECT Members in Scotland do have queries, they should really go to SELECT for their fire and security information and to receive additional support.”

“You only have to look at something like the Grenfell Tower disaster to see why fire safety has never been more important” Steve Martin where we present to clients, specifiers and surveyors – anybody that has an interest in fire or security. We also collaborate very closely with certification bodies such as the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) and the Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB). And we work very closely with other trade bodies and stakeholders to ensure we get our message across.

Tell us more about your awards event.

We have two FSA awards – the Peter

Paul Tennent receives his award

Greenwood Security Award and the Ian Marsh Fire Award. The first recognises individuals for their outstanding contribution throughout the whole security system industry, so it’s not just for members of SELECT, the ECA or FSA; it’s for anyone who deserves recognition. And the Ian Marsh award recognises individuals who have demonstrated enthusiasm and selfless concern in the fire and emergency industry. It’s usually open for nominations during the summer and early autumn, is judged in October time, and then the two winners are invited to the IFSEC Security and Fire Excellence Awards in London in November. Again SELECT is closely involved – president Kevin Griffiths was judge this year. At this year’s event, the Ian Marsh Fire Award was won by Tony Maskens, who is Technical Schemes Manager at BAFE, while Paul Tennent, Sales Director, Tavcom Training, won the Peter Greenwood Security Award.

Steve Martin

I think we could all wish for more!

However, the FSA has really gained traction over the past three or four years, especially within England, and is being recognised as an association that really represents its members’ interests in a variety of ways, which is great news.

Do the awards help raise your profile?

I’d say we have a reasonable entry rate, but it could always be better – although CABLEtalk

To find out more about the FSA and its work, visit the ECA website at www.eca.co.uk DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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FEATURES SAFETY The death of an electrical contractor in a fall from a stepladder at a bakery was a tragic illustration of a common but all too avoidable accident at work. Working at height demands a few simple but essential equipment safety checks to help you avoid becoming a statistic

Getting in step

T

By Jim Cornwall Technical & Safety Adviser 26

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he recent prosecution of a bakery following the death of a self-employed electrical contractor who fell from height only serves to highlight the importance of using ladders and stepladders safely.

The contractor was wiring a motor on the top of a machine while standing on a stepladder provided by the bakery, which was based in Hull.

However, the stepladder wasn’t high enough for the task, which resulted in him falling to the floor. He died in hospital from serious head injuries.

An investigation by the Health and

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Safety Executive (HSE) identified that the stepladder was not suitable for the task, and the bakery had failed to plan the activity properly.

The firm pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3 (1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, was fined £1 million and ordered to pay costs of £30,000.

It subsequently installed a permanent working platform to allow cleaning and regular maintenance of the machine to be

carried out safely. However, had such a platform been provided from the outset, the contractor’s death could have been prevented.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Denise Fotheringham said: “Falls from height remain one of the most common causes of work-related fatalities in Great Britain and the risks associated with working at height are well known.

“Work-at-height regulations require that all work at height is properly planned and appropriate access is provided.”

Portable ladder standards are changing

BS EN 131, the single product standard covering all types of portable ladders – step, extending and combination – has been substantially revised.

Ladders to the withdrawn British Standards BS 1129 and BS 2037 – often referred to as Class 1 and Class 3 for industrial and domestic types, along with those to the superseded EN131 - will no longer be available.

Existing ladders to the older standards can continue to be used, provided they are in good condition.

Telescopic ladders

The use of telescopic ladders has become more popular due to their ease of storage and convenience.

However, due to the number of components involved in their construction, there are particular issues regarding the bending of their frames and stiles, and the fact that they might be rated for a lower load than more conventional ladders.

The HSE has been particularly concerned by the number of substandard telescopic ladders currently available in the UK. In particular, these include some low-cost products imported from outside the EU, some of which have been implicated in serious accidents.

When tests were conducted on 13 different types of such telescopic ladders

by Trading Standards, they all failed to meet BS EN 131 and have subsequently been removed from sale.

Anyone currently owning and using a telescopic ladder is advised to

TOP TIPS BEFORE USING YOUR LADDER Before starting a task, you should always carry out a pre-use check to spot any obvious visual defects to make sure the ladder is safe to use.

A pre-use check should be carried out: ●●by the user ●●at the beginning of the working day ●●after something has changed, e.g. a ladder has been dropped or moved from a dirty area to a clean area.

If you’re not sure if this has happened, check the state or condition of the feet.

Check the stiles – make sure they are not Loose bent or damaged, as the fixings ladder could buckle compromise or collapse. safety Check the feet – if they are missing, worn or damaged the ladder could slip. Also check ladder feet when moving from soft or dirty ground, e.g. dug soil, loose sand and stone, or a dirty workshop, to a smooth, solid surface like paving slabs,

to make sure the foot material and not the dirt, e.g. soil, chippings or embedded stones is making contact with the ground.

Check the rungs – if they are bent, worn, missing or loose the ladder could fail.

Check any locking mechanisms – if they are bent or the fixings are worn or damaged the ladder could collapse.

Ensure any locking bars are engaged.

Check the stepladder platform – if it is split or buckled the ladder could become unstable or collapse.

Check the steps or treads on stepladders – if they are contaminated they could be slippery; if the fixings are loose on steps, they could collapse.

If you spot any of the above defects, don’t use the ladder and notify your employer.

“Falls from height remain one of the most common causes of work-related fatalities in Great Britain, and the risks associated with working at height are well known” inspect it thoroughly at regular intervals for any signs of damage or component failure.

If you have any doubts about its condition, you should contact the supplier for advice.

Further guidance

The Ladder Association has published safety guidance on the changes to ladder standards and on buying, using and

maintaining telescopic ladders.

These are freely available at www. ladderassociation.org.uk Following a number of recent fatal and serious injury accident investigations, and the concerns raised above, the HSE will also be amending its ladder guidance INDG455: Safe use of ladders and stepladders: A brief guide.

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FEATURES ELECTRICAL INDUSTRIES CHARITY

Help is at hand if you need it The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) provides invaluable support for people in need in the electrical sector. Here, its managing director Tessa Ogle outlines how it helps improve many lives – and highlights the need for more support for those with mental health problems

I

n our industry, there are 1.3 million people who are working, or have worked, in the electrical or energy-related sectors. Some 10 per cent of these people are dealing with a wide range of issues such as autism, mental health problems, caring for a loved one or financial problems, and are eligible for support from their industry charity. But not all of them are aware of the support services that are available – and therefore very often do not reach out for that vital help.

Mental health issues are one of the most common problems affecting thousands of people in the UK. According to the recent statistics produced by the NHS Digital study, one

DANNY’S STORY Danny was a qualified electrician and for many years had his own successful business. Unfortunately, it started to lose money rapidly which caused a decline in his physical and mental health. Not long after losing his business, his marriage also broke down.

He suffered a complete mental breakdown, and when he was released from hospital, he was put on a high level of medication which left him unable to work due to residual anxiety and depression.

Danny was renting a two-bedroom house so his daughter could stay 28

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95%

of the industry don’t discuss feeling depressed

in six of the population in England aged 16 to 64 has a mental health problem.

The same study revealed that women are now more likely to have a common mental illness, but men are more likely to take their own lives. In fact, there are around 6,000 suicides reported in the UK each year, and this is the biggest killer of men up to the age of 49. In our sector alone, the statistics showed that the risk of suicide for those working in building and construction trades was 1.6 times higher than the national average.

Recently, a review commissioned by Theresa May also found that 300,000 people with a long-term mental health problem lose their jobs each year in the UK due to lack of support. The report also

with him on alternate weekends. However, his discretionary extra housing benefit was then stopped, leaving him with a £400 per month shortfall.

It was at this point that Danny contacted the EIC, who immediately offered him one-to-one counselling. They also provided financial support for his rent and helped him to register with a work scheme, covering his registration fees and providing him with the necessary tools to help him to continue with his electrical career.

Danny was able to access support when he needed it and is now on his way to recovery – but there are many others like him in the industry who still need help.

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300,000 mental health sufferers lose their job each year

£99billion

lost by UK economy due to poor mental health

4,000

people have been helped by the EIC in the last year alone

showed that poor mental health costs the UK economy up to £99billion each year.

The stigma of mental health is the biggest barrier to seeking help. In our sector, stress and depression are some of the most common matters to deal with, but 95 per cent of people in the industry never discuss feeling depressed with a significant other.

Mental health stigma can be a silent killer, and it is having catastrophic effects on people's wellbeing – it is often the reason people lie about how they are feeling, or don't tell anyone that they're struggling.

To address these concerning numbers, and to help those who are struggling, the EIC has launched the Employee Assistance Programme, which covers four separate areas: ●●Practical Participation ●●Pensioner ●●Apprentice ●●Employee and Family Support.

Thanks to these four programmes, and the support from the electrical industry, the charity has helped 4,000 individuals in the electrical sector in the past year alone.

Employee Assistance Programmes are very common across the sector but many people believe that they are only available to people who work for big companies. But the programmes run by the EIC are open to everyone.

To the EIC, you’re never just a number or just another small business in the electrical sector. And it doesn’t matter if you’re self-employed or working for a small or large business – everyone is equally as important.

The stories on these pages give just a couple of examples of the many issues that thousands of people in our industry are going through.

You can show your support and help us to continue providing crucial help by joining our programmes, signing up to Challenge for a Cause or playing our own powerLottery.

To find out more about the EIC and how it could help you, please visit www.electricalcharity.org

“Not everyone is aware of the support that’s available and often don’t reach out for that vital help” Tessa Ogle

TAKING ON A CHALLENGE FOR CAZ

Caz and her family The Employee Assistance Programme is not the only way the EIC supports people in the electrical sector. Each year, it selects a major project to raise funds for, called Challenge for a Cause.

For 2017/2018, the charity is organising a range of events to raise £250,000 for Caz Dickinson and her family.

Mum-of-three Caz spent 15 years working for a large electrical wholesaler until she collapsed and hit her head on the bathtub in January 2009. She was left with irreversible brain damage and spent the next seven years in hospital, during which time her husband Mick was made redundant and they lost their home.

Today, Caz requires 24-hour care, which is why the EIC is raising funds to buy her a home and work with industry partners to carry out any renovations.

So far, the EIC has raised £39,535 of its £250,000 target, with fundraising events over the next two years including the Raise the Roof Campaign and the Great Wall of China Trek.

CABLEtalk

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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FEATURES ELECTRICAL RECYCLING

Trash talk City Electrical Factors is the only UK electrical wholesaler to have an in-house electrical waste recycling facility – naturally enough called Electrical Waste. Here, its Group Operations Director, Shaun Donaghey, reveals what Scotland does well when it comes to recycling – and what we could be doing a whole lot better as we bid to preserve the planet for future generations

By Iain Mason Hello Shaun. What does Electrical Waste do?

We provide a fully transparent and legally compliant collection treatment system for all UK waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), including lamps, large and small appliances, display, batteries, air conditioning units and fridges. WEEE is one of the fastest growing waste sectors across the UK – it’s very dynamic.

So what is Scotland’s track record on recycling electrical products?

The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) has devolved powers from Westminster and operates slightly differently than in Wales, England and Northern Ireland. In terms of ethos and wanting to do the right thing, I think the Scottish Government and SEPA really want to lead by example. But of course, the reality is always slightly different.

For example, SEPA ask for 72 hours’ notification before so-called ‘special waste’ is moved, and then you have to have a consignment note from them to actually do so. The reality is that people don’t wait and just move it anyway. So we’ve been lobbying SEPA to revise the process. I understand why they do it.

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Special waste covers all sorts of hazardous materials, and quite rightly, SEPA should be notified where it’s being moved to and from. I just think the actual practicalities are challenging.

What kind of things aren’t being recycled that could be?

Hazardous waste, batteries and cathode ray tubes. There aren’t a lot of treatment facilities in Scotland, so a lot of materials still move south of the border, which is crazy as the idea is to have it treated as close to source as possible. So there’s a lot of non-compliant treatment out there that we’re trying to prevent. We have the right systems to do things the right way.

Unfortunately, you’re often competing with someone who just wants to scavenge value out of WEEE and dump the rest. That’s what we see a lot of.

Why do we seem to be so poor at it?

Is it a lack of awareness?

Awareness is the key word.

People get this smokescreen that it’s complicated, or they say: “Why should I bother?

Fred’s not doing it.” But at the end of the day we’re trying to capture valuable resources that will inevitably go into a hole

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in the ground and be lost forever. So instead of digging in the ground for these materials, they live in the urban environment so we can capture them, re-use them and put them back in the supply chain. We outline the bigger picture and tell people that we’re talking about future generations. The way we’re using resources as a planet, we’ll be running out of finite materials at some point. SEPA has this great phrase – ‘one planet, three worlds’ – which means we’re using three times the amount of resources that the planet actually has.

At some point it’s going to dry up, so it’s important that recycling systems recapture and re-use materials properly.

Could it be a generational thing?

Possibly. The younger generation have grown up with three bins outside their house, so understand about recycling and the impact on the planet. But I wouldn’t want to generalise. Generally, it’s down to attitude and behaviour; the Shaun Donaghey

things if people understand why it’s being done, rather than being forced to do it. If we’re forced to do something, we often drag our feet. But if we understand why we have to do it, that’s more of an inspirational thing. People will go: “I want to make a difference.”

Is there anything Scotland does well that we should see more of?

The Scottish Government’s zero waste ethos is to be welcomed and I think some of the laws they’re bringing in are very encouraging and ahead of the game. I do think Scotland is leading the way in looking for a circular economy and trying to make businesses compliant with waste regulations. However, translate that into reality and it’s slightly more challenging. The difficult thing is the trickle-down into industry itself – and that’s no different in Scotland from anywhere; it’s the same problem everywhere.

one who doesn’t care is often the same guy who’s driving while using his mobile phone – and that can be any age. I always say that we’re not going to change everybody’s mind; people will still be non-compliant and still look for ways to cut costs and cut corners. But there has to be an acceptance by businesses, and they can do more to explain the benefits to customers, like saying: “We’re installing these LEDs so you can reduce both your carbon footprint and your electric bills. But we’re also going to take the old materials away and put them back in the supply chain.” Once you get the educational angle across, people see it as an opportunity rather than a problem.

Do people see it as complicated?

Yes, that’s part of the myth; if it looks complicated you turn away from it.

That’s why we make it simple and transparent and work with clients to help them understand their duties. The other thing is, it’s easier to accomplish

If I’m a small business, why should I bother recycling?

I think it’s that word: compliance. As businesses, we’re asked to do lots of things, including following the Duty of Care and Waste Regulations. We need to understand that this is a legal duty that includes consigning, collecting, storing and treating special waste properly, with proper evidence that it’s all happened.

It’s a big responsibility, but we really do offer SMEs an easy solution to it.

What about SELECT Members?

This is where I think SELECT Members already have an advantage. I don’t know the exact membership criteria, but I would suspect that one of the tick boxes is understanding Duty of Care and your obligations to waste. A lot of companies say: “Oh I gave it to Fred and he gave me this bit of paper.” But that doesn’t cut the mustard – it’s your legal obligation to know your waste is being disposed of in an appropriate and legal manner.

Is there anything that’s not currently recyclable that should be?

The electronic sector is very dynamic and changes quickly, so a lot of different materials suddenly come into the recycling chain, like batteries. Battery

“We’re using three times the amount of resources that the planet actually has. At some point it’s going to dry up” technology is evolving and developing quickly, and we want more and more devices to be independent and mainsfree. If someone is looking to the future, it’s one area that’s going to be a big problem for the UK as a whole, never mind Scotland. Electric cars are already being talked about as part of WEEE. But they obviously can’t go into the old shredder system – we’ll need a proper recovery and dismantling system.

How do we compare to other nations when it comes to recycling?

Very poorly. Scandinavia, Germany, France, Holland and most European countries are way ahead of us. Again, it’s an attitude thing – there’s more of an acceptance and willingness there. Also, they’re not throwaway economies like us. They’re much more like: “What can we do with it? Can we recycle it?” Here in the UK we’re more likely to say: “I’m throwing it out and it’s nothing to do with me.” But we need a carrot and stick approach; we need to educate people.

What are your aims and objectives?

To have an open and active network for all WEEE needs; making things transparent so everything is fully auditable and sustainable. Yes, there are obviously transactional costs, but customers get a very compliant system that captures valuable resources that would inevitably get lost otherwise.

CABLEtalk

To find out more about Electrical Waste, visit the CEF website at www.cef.co.uk/electricalwaste DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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FEATURES CHARGING

Power to the people Consumers today are hooked on their smartphones, with an incredible 90 per cent saying they would change their plans if they had low battery, and more than a quarter admitting they keep devices on charge most of the day.

Emma Segelov, head of marketing at MK Electric, explains how this provides an opportunity for electricians to power up their business

W

hether it’s surfing the web, making calls or checking in on social media, smartphones have become a central part of everyday life for us all.

As a population we now rely on them more than ever before. Consumers view a quarter of their daily media through their smartphones, yet the batteries within these devices have gained only a modest amount of extra capacity – leaving many users to struggle with maintaining a charge for the full day.

Such is the problem that a new term – nomophobia – has even been coined to describe the very real fear that people feel when facing life without their smartphone.

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“This constant need for power has great potential for new builds and upgrades” With such a significant rise in demand for power on the go, many forward-thinking organisations and businesses are already working on ways to keep their visitors and customers fully charged.

Free mobile device charging points are a great additional amenity, adding to the user experience, getting people

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

through the door and keeping them there for longer, while also helping to secure loyalty and repeat business.

For electrical contractors, this constant requirement for power has great potential, not only for new builds but also for upgrading existing installations.

Offering USB charging options is an opportunity to upsell, demonstrates a real understanding of a client’s current and future needs, offers a valuable service to stand out from competitors and, finally, induces loyalty from customers who have had a positive user experience.

At the moment, modern USB integrated sockets have proved to be particularly popular in environments such as universities and colleges.

Students today are part of the tech-savvy millennial generation that has grown up with mobile phones

Efficiency and flexible safety puts choice at your fingertips

and other devices, and these digital natives have a significant demand for charging points.

For universities with a high proportion of international students, USB charging points offer the additional benefit of negating the use of adapters to charge devices in a conventional switchsocket outlet, vastly improving safety and ease of use. USB charging also eliminates the need for PAT testing.

But the scope for USB charging points goes well beyond colleges and universities – many other commercial environments such as coffee shops and hotels are now beginning to realise the potential appeal these power points hold for customers.

It is simple and relatively inexpensive to install a USB charging switch socket or module as part of a replacement of existing wiring devices

or in new installations, so it should be a relatively straightforward upsell for electricians in the know.

The proliferation of smart technology and mobile devices has created substantial business opportunities for electricians. As well as being able to show they are on top of the latest trends and customer insight, electricians can provide a solution which can meet the demands of a 21st century business and help them to prosper in the digital age.

MK Electric’s latest switchsocket outlets feature innovative dynamic device recognition (DDR), which is specifically designed to detect charging configurations from a range of manufacturers and react accordingly for optimal and efficient charging.

Charging devices via a USB socket can come with potential problems because varying devices draw charge in different ways. This technology ensures that whatever device you use, it recognises the socket as it would its own charger and draws current from the USB integrated socket in the most efficient way.

The switchsockets also feature a three-pin child-resistant shutter system, designed to prevent access to the electricity supply unless all three pins of a standard British plug are in position.

USB charging capability is available within seven MK Electric wiring device ranges – Logic Plus, Metalclad Plus, MK Dimensions, Albany Plus, Edge, Aspect and Elements – offering the widest choice and flexibility to suit any application.

Thanks to the wide range of wiring devices available, there is a suitable option for every environment, interior décor and function.

FIND OUT MORE MK Electric is the UK’s leading electrical accessories manufacturer and part of the Honeywell family. For more, visit www.mkelectric.co.uk CABLEtalk

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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FOCUS TRAINING

How to make training count Despite good intentions, much employee development activity doesn’t always deliver improved performance. However, there are steps you can take to ensure training is not doomed to failure

roles and do things differently and better.

Despite this potential, much staff development activity is ineffective. Many of us will have spent wasted days on training courses that have no impact on how we perform at work.

Intentions may be good, the need for training justified, and the training well designed and delivered, but this positive start doesn’t always transfer into improved performance.

For well-designed training to be effective, four things must also happen.

By Elaine Ellis Qualifications and Skills Development Manager, SELECT

A

good employee development programme will have a positive impact on the success of an organisation. Good staff development can give people the skills and confidence to do their job well, innovate within their

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Objectives must support company strategy

Smart organisations create a training strategy that complements the organisation’s goals, which will only be achieved if individual employees play their part.

A Training Needs Analysis can help identify gaps in performance to ensure that all employees have the skills and knowledge needed within their own job roles. If most employees continue to do the same as they’ve always done, it’s unlikely the organisation will achieve

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anything different. It’s important that when senior management decide the mission and aims that they support their employees as they work towards meeting new organisational goals.

Training can be a key tool in helping employees bridge the gap between what they currently do and what they should be doing to help an organisation evolve and meet higher-level objectives.

The impact of training should be measured

Key performance indicators (KPIs) should always be identified and set based on the above strategy, and should also be measurable.

The list of what can be measured is endless and will vary from organisation to organisation. Some examples are profit margin, number of sales, customer feedback statistics and reduction of time on processes.

Measurement is key. If training doesn’t impact on an organisation’s success then it’s time and money wasted, so objectives should be set at both an organisational level and for individual job roles.

“People are often sent on courses that appear to be relevant, but are actually a waste of time”

Training should build skills and knowledge, so employees can perform better

A lot of training is doomed to failure as people are sent to develop skills they don’t need in their everyday job. It may appear on the surface that offering such programmes is a positive. But if that training comes at the expense of performance, then it’s a negative.

Organisations often don’t carry out a good Training Needs Analysis on individual job roles and the individuals within them. No time is spent analysing what skills people really need to do their job better.

The result is that individuals are sent on courses that appear relevant, but are actually a waste of time. An example is advanced Word or Excel training for people who only ever use them at a basic level.

Many people will claim to have found training useful in the feedback sheets – but it won’t make a jot of difference on how they perform in their job. There can be different reasons for this, but lack of relevance is key; if people don’t

get a chance to actively apply learning, it will be quickly forgotten.

Employee behaviour must change as a result

People must do something differently as a result of training, or else what is the point? Training is only one step in behavioural change. Even a relevant and well-delivered course won’t have an impact unless the organisation actively supports it.

There must be active management support at all levels to ensure the outcomes are implemented. A good example is training a manager with team performance issues to handle difficult conversations.

For the manager to implement this in practice and deal successfully with the issues, they’ll also need to work with internal policies and within a culture that allows them to deal effectively with poor performance. There will need to be support and guidance from senior management and HR throughout.

If a person is left without a proper support network, or is working in a

culture that does not actively and properly deal with poor performance, then nothing will change and the training is pointless.

This principle applies equally, regardless of the training topic. The culture must support people as they implement change and line managers must support and challenge people to do things differently and apply what they have learned. This is an active step and not simply a question for an appraisal.

Discussions on what can be done differently must be held in the days immediately following the training – and then actions from line managers must support these outcomes.

If active steps are not taken, then the immediate priorities of the day job will get in the way, and most people will carry on as before, with the training quickly forgotten.

In conclusion, supporting people and giving them the skills to do a great job is essential and will make an impact on an organisation’s success. But training should never be the outcome or goal in itself – it must always change performance.

CABLEtalk

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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SCHNEIDER SPONSORED EDITORIAL of home automation quickly, it won’t be too expensive or inconvenient to have them away from work.

They expand your workforce

Apprenticeships are a very cost-effective way to increase your manpower – 59 per cent of employers say it’s more costeffective to train apprentices than hire skilled staff, according to Populus Apprenticeships Research. And once your apprentices have finished their qualifications, they will be able to join your company as a fully-fledged member of the team, having already become familiar with your systems, processes and challenges and therefore saving valuable time. You are growing your own workforce of the future, who will be loyal to your business and moulded to its unique needs.

The benefits of hiring apprentices Apprenticeship participation is now at record levels according to Gov.co.uk. Apprenticeships benefit not just the individual but also the businesses who work with them, and the economy as a whole. So if you haven’t yet hired your first apprentice, now is the time to consider the advantages it would bring…

They work hard

Apprenticeships deliver industrious workers because, put simply, an apprentice will not qualify for a career in their industry unless they apply themselves and get their qualifications. What’s more, students who opt for the apprenticeship route tend to be keen to progress quickly into working life and learn fast.

They bring a new perspective

Apprentices bring a fresh pair of eyes and a young and enthusiastic perspective to any company. The electrical workforce is an aging one, so new talent is vital to plug the skills gap and help the industry to continue to meet demand.

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They have digital skills and know smart technology

Anyone growing up in today’s digital world has an inherent knowledge of the technology around them which can be lacking in older generations. This will bring new skills to your company, from advanced computer literacy to an interest and acquaintance with smart technology.

It’s key for electricians to break into the emerging smart market as soon as possible, to take advantage of the new business opportunities it presents and avoid being left behind – and what better way to do it than with an apprentice? If you struggle to find the time to down tools and attend lengthy training sessions and courses, send an apprentice instead. Not only will they be able to grasp the principles

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They make your workforce more productive

The presence of an apprentice in a team boosts morale and increases motivation, as other staff can see their employer positively contributing to someone’s training and development and investing in the future of the company. According to Gov.co.uk, 92 per cent of employers with apprentices believe that it leads to a more satisfied workforce, which in turn increases staff retention.

Apprenticeships are mutually beneficial, and a company who hires one has as much to gain as the apprentice themselves.

KEEP UP TO DATE Make sure you’re up to speed with the new funding rules – find out more at mySchneider Electrician portal, your free online hub dedicated to electricians.

With news, product information, support tools, training and much more, it has everything you need in one place.

You can also apply to become one of our Electrician Partners for further free benefits, including My Rewards loyalty scheme and exclusive event invitations. Sign up now at schneider-electric.co.uk/ electricianpartner

FOCUS APPRENTICES

Taking centre Stage

Medal-winners (left to right) Ross Hay, Melanie Smith, Robert Cameron, Craig Rowe, Ross Ballantyne and Lewis Sim

Meet the winners in the First and Second Stage Apprentice of the Year Awards 2017

By Anne Galbraith Chief Executive, SECTT

T

hese six proud apprentices were all smiles after picking up their medals at the First and Second Stage Apprentice of the Year Awards 2017.

The youngsters were chosen from more than 700 fellow apprentices in each stage to compete, after winning practical competitions in their respective areas. The competition

was organised by the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust to promote training and excellence, in line with competence-based assessment in the Electrical SVQ. This year, the six finalists had already been through a rigorous assessment of both practical skills and theoretical knowledge.

This was followed by a final interview on Monday 9 October, during which they were interviewed by a panel comprising: ●●Fiona Harper, the Secretary of the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB), SELECT Head of Employment Affairs and Director of the NET Board ●●Alick Smith, SELECT Past President, Lead Negotiator for the Employers on the SJIB National Board and Director of the NET Board ●●Scott Foley, Regional Officer Unite the Union, Member of the SJIB National Board and SECTT Trustee.

The winners received a gold medal, with silver and bronze awarded respectively to the runners-up.

Working in partnership with Makita

and White, Milne & Co, SECTT also provided each finalist with a drill.

Each of the six apprentices should be commended as the interview stage can be quite daunting. It was a pleasure speaking to them and always great to hear that they all thoroughly enjoy being apprentice electricians.

I was particularly pleased to see such a turnout of family and employers to support them, and they can be rightfully proud of their achievements.

WINNERS FIRST STAGE

Gold: Lewis Sim, McDonald & Munro Ltd and Moray College UHI Silver: Craig Rowe, H F Electrical Ltd and West College Scotland (Clydebank Campus) Bronze: Ross Ballantyne, Dundee City Council and Dundee and Angus College (Kingsway Campus)

SECOND STAGE

Gold: Melanie Smith, R S Merriman Ltd and North Highland College UHI Silver: Robert Cameron, SSE and Perth College UHI Bronze: Ross Hay, Ross Hay Electrical and Ayrshire College (Ayr Campus)

CABLEtalk

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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FOCUS RETENTIONS UPDATE

By Professor Rudi Klein SEC Group CEO and Barrister

A

Let battle commence The battle lines are being drawn in the cash retentions war, with a new consultation and another Private Member’s Bill being lodged by a Westminster MP. So it’s time to recruit your MP and MSP – and help gather as much ammunition as possible

couple of years ago, SELECT, acting in concert with other trade bodies under the SEC Group umbrella, secured a commitment from the Business Department in London to review the retentions system.

This review was duly carried out by consultants and the outcome – together with recommendations – is now the has revealed that £700million worth subject of a consultation with the of retention monies was lost over a construction industry that will close on three-year period due to upstream 19 January 2018. insolvencies.

The three key options outlined in this This loss alone is sufficient to justify consultation are: statutory protection as is the case in ●● Do nothing many other countries, including the USA, ●● Improve understanding of rights to Australia, New Zealand, Canada, France recover retentions and Germany. ●● Create a new statutory retention Unfortunately, the consultation is deposit scheme. confined to England. But SELECT firms are still invited to ask the following Of course, for our industry, the of their MSPs: only option that would provide a meaningful solution is a statutory Can you ask the Scottish retention deposit scheme.

Government what its This would operate in a reaction is to the UK Peter Aldous MP to Government’s recent similar way to tenancy lodge retentions Bill in consultation on protecting deposit schemes.

House of Commons For example, under the cash retentions in the construction industry?

Tenancy Deposit Schemes (Scotland) Regulations 2011, a In addition to the consultation, landlord must transfer a deposit Conservative MP Peter Aldous is handed over by a tenant to a planning to lodge another Private government-approved scheme.

Member’s Bill in the Commons in a bid Now is the time to pull out all to ring-fence retentions. the stops. Research carried out by As we told in a previous edition of consultants for the UK Government

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CABLEtalk, Alan Brown, the SNP MP for Kilmarnock, introduced a Bill in the Commons in April to ring-fence each retention, but unfortunately it did not progress due to the general election.

With this new Bill, you are urged to find your Westminster MP at www. parliament.uk/get-involved/contactyour-mp and email them as follows: Peter Aldous MP will be introducing a Bill in the House of Commons on 9 January 2018 to ring-fence case retentions in the construction industry by placing them in a retentions deposit scheme. The UK Government has carried out research that indicates almost £700million worth of retention invoices have been lost over a three-year period due to insolvencies. The bulk of these monies were owned by small firms. I would be grateful if you would confirm your support for this Bill.

As well as Peter and Alan, there is plenty of other political support

WHAT THE LATEST CONSULTATION MEANS

The latest consultation was announced after an independent review on cash retentions in the construction industry was published on 24 October.

Commissioned by the UK Government, it confirmed that retention monies lost to the industry due to contractor insolvencies are of great value, with the SEC Group putting the figure at £40million each year.

The review also confirmed that: ●● Delays in paying retention monies are commonplace throughout the construction sector ●● Currently there is no protection for sub-contractors from upstream insolvencies, as retention monies held against their work are not ring-fenced ●● Multiple contractors within the supply chain could be affected by the insolvency of just a single large main contractor or client.

for dealing with the problem of cash retentions. Two years ago, in the How a retention deposit scheme could House of Lords, Baroness Donaghy, a work in the case of a sub-contract Labour peer, said: “Cash retention in the construction industry is a scourge Deposits retention monies in scheme which causes bankruptcies, loses jobs as soon as they are deducted Main Contractor and reduces training. Cash retention Must be registered into an is like an underground poker game.” authorised scheme Margot James MP, the Small Business Minister in Theresa May’s government, then said: Main contractor notifies sub-contractor of “There is far too much abuse of scheme he is registered with and confirms cash retentions. It’s been Retention when monies are deposited ASAP going on for far too long.”

Deposit Scheme The support among our Operated by an elected representatives is independent third party clearly there, so this is our authorised by government Government chance – we must pull out consultation with construction Sub-Contractor all the stops and repeat the industry closes message: We must have Scheme confirms legislation that requires receipt of monies retention monies to be deposited in a ring-fenced scheme.

So don’t delay – act now. We are nearer than ever to addressing RETENTION MONIES NOT DEPOSITED? the cash retention issue. But we RETENTION CLAUSE IS INVALID must all pester our MPs and MSPs to get a successful outcome.

CABLEtalk

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE Our guide to some of the latest 1 ESP’S WI-FI DOOR STATION GIVES A VISION OF THE FUTURE OF SECURITY ESP has introduced a battery-powered version of its Aperta Wi-Fi Door Station, offering quick and easy security installation.

Available in graphite grey and matt black, and powered by four AA batteries, each kit comes with a battery-powered chime which can be placed in a convenient location in the home.

Aimed at both domestic and light commercial markets, it means owners can talk to visitors from anywhere in the world via a smart device and the free ESP app. Owners also get alerts to visitors, can see who is at the door or gate in HD colour, engage in two-way communication and allow remote access.

The device comes in ready-to-use kit form and includes the Wi-Fi Door Station, 10DB Wi-Fi antenna, pre-installed micro SD card and LAN terminal. For successful set-up, the installer must ensure the user’s smartphone is connected to the Wi-Fi network, the Door Station is within range and that the key or password is available.

The robust metal housing and IP rating also makes it weatherproof and suitable for many external applications. For further information, visit www.espuk.com or call 01527 515 150.

3 MEGGER HELPS YOU GET IN THE LOOP FOR MORE ROBUST & RELIABLE TESTS Fast and repeatable non-trip loop testing is now simple, thanks to Megger’s new MFT1741 multifunction installation tester.

Key features include new internal hardware, a novel algorithm to generate results and an easy-to-read-display.

The MFT1741 offers everything needed to test electrical installations in line with the IET Wiring Regulations, as well as earth electrode resistance measurement.

It also provides three-wire non-trip loop impedance testing, two-wire testing, high-current testing, insulation test voltages from 100v to 1,000v, automatic and manual RCD test options, fast continuity checking, frequency measurement and true RMS voltage measurement. The rugged construction ensures a long life in tough conditions, plus there’s large capacity internal storage and wireless downloading to Bluetooth-enabled laptops.

For further details, visit www.megger.com or call 01304 502 101.

WANT TO SHOW OFF YOUR GREAT NEW PRODUCT? CONTACT OUR COMMERCIAL TEAM TO SPREAD THE WORD HERE 40

CABLEtalk

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

In association with

products to hit the market 2 NEW FLEXTACK HELPS KEEP CABLE MANAGEMENT AHEAD OF THE CURVE

Asking the experts: key questions

By David Wilson Partner, MacRoberts LLP

Securing cables to curved surfaces in industrial applications is now easier thanks to FlexTack, HellermannTyton’s new flexible, selfadhesive cable tie mount designed for use on angled surfaces.

The product offers a convenient alternative to cumbersome nut and bolt cable tightening, with a high-strength acrylic adhesive that can withstand temperatures of up to 120ºC. The unique design means FlexTack can be easily manipulated flush against a surface, allowing weight to be equally distributed and helping to reduce the degree of strain on the component.

For further information, visit http://bit.ly/flex_tack

4 SCOLMORE’S DAZZLING DUO LIGHT THE WAY IN KITCHENS & BATHROOMS Scolmore’s Inceptor Nano5 are integrated fire-rated, dimmable LED downlights, with an array of features in their shallow profiles.

The new high-performance 4.8W LED products – Inceptor Nano5 Fixed and Inceptor Nano5 Adjustable – are suitable for a variety of domestic uses. Both allow the luminaire to be directed where light is needed and are suitable for fire rated ceilings. Nano5 Fixed is built for a 60mm cutout and will fit into a recess depth of 45mm, while the Adjustable is designed for a 75mm cutout, with a 54mm recess.

Ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, both feature Scolmore’s pre-wired connection system to speed up installation and removal for testing and replacement. The company’s trademark blue strip of intumescent adds an extra barrier of protection against fire by expanding to fill the gap between the plasterboard and the light fitting. It also offers a 30, 60 and 90-minute fire rating, and is acoustic and airflow compliant.

For further details, visit www.scolmore.com or call 01827 63454.

David Hughes: 0131 561 0022

davidh@connectcommunications.co.uk

Every day our courts are asked to settle disputes in all types of industry. Often the final decision will be dependent on technical issues which the courts have little knowledge of.

This is particularly prevalent in the construction industry which, by its very nature, results in claims based on technical facts.

To deal with the problem, industry specialists can be called upon as expert witnesses to provide their opinion to the court. They can be asked a wide variety of questions: Why did that product fail? How much should they be paid? Did they do their job properly?

Whatever the issue, ultimately the courts will look to experts to help them understand all of the many technical issues in a case.

The opinion of an expert can often make or break a party’s case, so real thought needs to be had when instructing an expert.

There will be a number of things to think about, but there are three key questions anyone should ask before instructing an expert:

What skills does your expert need?

Your expert must have the skills to give an opinion on your case. You will need to think about who the job is suited to – do you need an engineer, or is it a job for a quantity surveyor?

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Is your expert qualified?

Having identified the skills required, you need to consider the qualifications held by your expert.

Can they hold themselves out to be an expert?

Do they have the right qualifications and experience? Are they accredited by any specialist bodies? You’re asking the court to give weight to their opinion so they must be satisfied that they are capable of giving that opinion.

Is your expert impartial?

This is arguably the most important question. Although typically instructed by a party to the action, an expert’s primary duty is to the court. They must give an independent opinion based on the facts put before them.

If the court considers an expert to be biased in any way or suspects a party of hiring an expert witness as a ‘hired gun’, that expert’s evidence will be immediately discredited and will do more harm than good to your case.

If you find yourself in a dispute and think an expert opinion may be appropriate, always consider legal advice.

Your lawyer can advise you on the best way forward.

l MacRoberts is an independent commercial law firm with more than 150 years of experience.

Find out more at www.macroberts.com DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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DIARY EVENTS / CHRISTMAS WORDSEARCH WIN £50 OF AMAZON VOUCHERS

GETTING TO KNOW YOU TREE ELF GIFT STOCKING PINECONE CHIMNEY WREATH NUTCRACKER CHRISTMAS GARLAND REINDEER CANDLE CARDS ORNAMENT SANTA TINSEL SNOWFLAKE RIBBON SNOWMAN

In association with MacRoberts LLP, here’s the chance to win £50 of Amazon vouchers with our festive wordsearch. Find the words listed on the right, take a pic of your finished grid and email it to memberservices@select.org.uk by 12 January. Or cut it out and send it to: Wordsearch, SELECT, The Walled Garden, Bush Estate, Midlothian EH26 0SB. Winner drawn at random. T&Cs are online.

TWINKLING RUDOLPH LIGHTS MERRY BELLS REINDEER

Donald Orr Chairman, Lanarkshire Branch How long have you been a SELECT Member?

Since 1989, which seems a long time ago.

How did you get involved with your branch?

I was invited to the first meeting after I’d joined to receive my membership certificate. I realised that it wasn’t as intimidating as I’d thought. It was actually enjoyable to listen to other members chatting about major issues relative to the whole industry, not just mine.

What are the benefits of going to branch meetings?

Meeting like-minded people and realising you’re not alone out there. We all have the same issues and problems.

What made you decide to become a Branch Office Bearer?

Tayside

Glasgow & West of Scotland Thursday 15 March

It seemed like a natural progression.

After helping out another Member, I was asked to become Vice-Chairman for the first time in 1994. I enjoyed it so much that I did it all over again in 2013, and then took over as Chairman earlier this year.

Edinburgh & South East of Scotland

Ayrshire

What do you enjoy most?

Dumfries & Galloway

Aberdeen & North East of Scotland

Lanarkshire

Inverness & North of Scotland

Upcoming events: Branch meetings 2018 Thursday 1 March

Tuesday 6 March

Thursday 8 March Tuesday 13 March 42

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Tuesday 20 March

Wednesday 21 March Thursday 22 March

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

Helping other Members and office bearers, and not just at meetings – we’re all only a phone call or email away.

How does your role as a branch chair impact your business?

It’s helped me grow into the businessman I am now, and for that I’m very grateful.