CABLEtalk April/May 2021

April/May 2021 £4.50

THE

Apprentice ISSUE

● ● ● ●

Member David White reveals 30 years of success stories New film explores both sides of apprenticeship experience PDC supports trainees on the road to becoming electricians Amy McDonald celebrates Apprentice of the Year honour

Exclusive Member-only tackle your the cost of 37 Experts 12 Covering COVID-19 sick pay 30 video library launched technical questions

CONTENTS APRIL/MAY 2021 OPINION

05

Alan Wilson on how we can all help to make things better

NEWS

06

APPRENTICES

18

All the latest news from SELECT and across the wider industry

CORONAVIRUS

Read our 11-page special about the benefits of apprenticeships

12

How our welfare benefits scheme can help you with sickness pay

16

SELECT Finance Assistant Carly Hamilton takes on hospital role

FEATURES

CORONAVIRUS

14

Back to the classroom thanks to our extra safety measures

TECHNICAL

37

Our experts answer some of your most common queries

30

Stay in the loop with our new SELECT TV for Members only

32

Expert Rudi Klein on suspending work because of payment issues

TRAINING

34 35

Learn more about installing ultraviolet disinfection lighting Inspection and testing course added to our online classroom

TECHNICAL

41

FOCUS

46

Save 25% on Di-LOG lockout products with our exclusive offer

FOCUS

What you need to know about switching to electric vehicles

42 44

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

ADVERTISING

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

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

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

Rewarding businesses for their innovative new ways of working Len Bunton on the importance of the Conflict Avoidance Process

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

48

Round-up of the latest gear and gadgets to help you do your job

DIARY

50

Meet Donnie Calder and your chance to win with our puzzle CABLEtalk

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3

COMMENT

Why we can all do better

A

s you will read in our News section, SELECT launched its Scottish Parliamentary Manifesto a few weeks ago, stressing what needs to be done to improve the sector.

Our main messages were:

Introducing regulation for the industry via protection of title

As we increasingly move towards an electrically-driven economy, it is vital that the next government uses the power which parliament has to introduce protection of title, thereby ensuring that all electrical work will be carried out by properly qualified and competent electricians.

Improving the procurement landscape

The procurement model which is used by most of Scotland’s public sector, and which still accounts for nearly 50 per cent of our construction spend, is fatally flawed as it often means clients gravitate towards accepting bids based on lowest price, not quality.

While we must all seek value for money, the current process benefits no one. Clients who think they have a good deal on an initial low cost often suffer from short-term gain versus long-term pain as the true costs of ‘savings’ begins to bite after occupancy and use.

Play fair – pay fair

Tied into a better procurement model is a need to make sure that all businesses are paid on time and in full. This means that a method must be found to ensure that payments are monitored down the

“A method must be found to ensure that payments are monitored down the construction chain” construction chain. On the subject of payment, we can’t ignore the spectre of retention. This deduction of sums has effectively become another form of taxation on the sector and must be phased out.

Building a greener future

As we move towards a net-zero carbon economy, it’s vital that we support businesses to take advantage of the opportunities.

To deliver on the challenges of the government’s renewables target, it will be vital to train and upskill the existing workforce and ensure that new entrants are trained on both the core skills needed to be a qualified electrician and the skills that will help the nation achieve its net-zero carbon goals.

The big picture – food for thought

When speaking to politicians and mentioning construction, they often find it hard to look beyond construction sites with scores of cranes or new roads. However, a recent report, carried out by the

Fraser of Allander Institute at the University of Strathclyde, showed how investment in construction activity creates multiplier effects across social, economic, and environmental impact measures.

This report also highlighted the fact that the construction sector is an important contributor to the Scottish economy, supporting almost £16 billion in Scottish gross value added (GVA) and almost 300,000 full-time equivalent jobs across the Scottish economy through direct, indirect and induced economic activity.

It also revealed that every million pounds that is spent on specialised construction activities, which included repairs and improvements, generates £1.09 million GVA return to the Scottish economy and supports 21 full-time equivalent jobs. Proof that every part of construction has a part to play both in our COVID-19 recovery and in meeting our future demands.

Alan Wilson Managing Director, SELECT CABLEtalk

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

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

Support gets stronger in the battle for regulation

The latest Scottish Government consultation reveals most people back our calls for change in the industry

Visit our websites at:

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

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

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

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

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

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ELECT has welcomed the results of the latest consultation on regulation of the electrical industry, which again shows an overwhelming majority of respondents in favour of legislation.

The outcome of the Scottish Government consultation, which closed on 12 February, reveals that, out of the 100 organisations and individuals who took part, the “vast majority” thought that voluntary measures don’t work and that regulation was required.

Alan Wilson, SELECT’s Managing Director, said: “There is a sense that the campaign is gathering increasing momentum and the strength of the consultation responses illustrates that our conviction is shared by the majority of those in the sector.

“While we would all like to think that voluntary action would work, it’s quite clear from the responses that the sector needs government legislation to bring about ‘comfort and security’ for customers across the country and end the scourge of unqualified people passing themselves off as electrical professionals.

“We have been hugely encouraged by the levels of support we have received, particularly cross-party

APRIL/MAY 2021

parliamentary support, and the impressive range of people who have publicly backed us through channels such as our Wall of Support.

“The result of this consultation is another enormously significant advance and we would like to thank all those parties who took part.”

The encouraging results were revealed to members of the parliamentary Electricians Working Group in a letter from Jamie Hepburn MSP, the Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills, who set up the consultation.

Mr Hepburn’s letter revealed that, of the 100 responses, 40 were from organisations and 44 were from individuals, the majority of whom were in favour of regulation.

The minister now wants the Working Group to reconvene to discuss the responses and says that it will be the responsibility of whoever holds his office after the Holyrood elections in May to decide the next steps.

The results follow a previous consultation by Conservative MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston, which closed on 10 November last year and received more than 140 submissions, more than 90 per of which were positive.

Alan Wilson

A manifesto for our future

Graphic gives you the facts SELECT has launched a new infographic of quarterly statistics which shows the wide range of activity at the association.

Hosted on the SELECT website, the graphic will be updated every three months to show the latest developments in technical, training, membership, communications, employment and skills.

Iain Mason, SELECT’s Director of Membership and Communications, said: “This handy graphic is designed to show

SELECT has issued its own manifesto ahead of the Scottish Parliament elections, in which it makes a clarion call for a brighter, more efficient and more sustainable future for the electrotechnical sector.

Entitled Creating a Brighter Future, the manifesto makes a number of key declarations, asking the next Parliament to introduce: ● Protection of title to stamp out unqualified electrical workers ● Laws to make it illegal to carry out electrical work when unqualified ● Procurement based on quality, not best bids ● Timely payment and no retentions ● Recognition of the sector’s role in delivering a sustainable future.

Among its focus on regulation and renewables, the manifesto also emphasises the vital role that electrical professionals will have in delivering the next Scottish government’s plans for reduced energy use, climate change and other principal policy objectives.

Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, said: “As our ‘wish list’ for the next Scottish government, this manifesto reflects real needs, not aspirations, when it comes to the future of our industry, our economy and our country.

“Ongoing feedback shows that the sector wants, needs and demands the changes we are seeking.”

The manifesto will now be distributed to candidates ahead of May’s elections.

the broad spectrum of work that the association carries out, as well as tracking progress in key areas. We hope it gives an informative insight into Scotland’s largest construction trade association, and helps Members and the wider industry see the ongoing support and guidance that everyone is working hard to deliver to help the industry through this challenging time.”

See the infographic at www.select.org. uk/about-us/news

ad Downloifesto n a the m it.ly/ at b to21 s Manife

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NEWS ONLINE EVENTS

Knowledge will be a click away In-depth technical videos and live Q&A webinars are being planned for later this year as our Toolbox Talks 2021 move online.

With physical events still not possible, our Technical team is busy developing digital methods to answer questions and keep Members updated. Practical, technical films are being created on the following topics: ● Cable sizing, including considerations where thermal insulation may affect current carrying capability ● Domestic ventilation requirements ● Energy efficiency, smart technology and carbon reduction ● Proposed changes in Amendment 2 of BS 7671: 2018.

These videos will be made available exclusively for Members.

Live Q&A sessions are also being planned for May and June, during which Technical Advisers will answer questions and discuss technical issues with Members in special webinars.

Dates for these sessions will be announced in due course.

Director of Technical Services, Dave Forrester, said: “The topics for our online videos have been developed in response to Member feedback as we are always keen to address the most relevant electrical issues of the moment and would welcome any other ideas for subjects.

“We would also encourage Members to submit questions in advance for our Q&A sessions.”

New EICR coding video Page 30 8

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Members log on for meetings

O

ngoing COVID-19 measures meant that the first Branch Updates of 2021 were again held online via webinar.

All eight get-togethers were successfully delivered via GoTo Meeting, with a quiz on safe isolation provided by Technical Advisers Keith Hagan, Stuart McKelvie, Mark McLaughin, Neil Sim and Darren Sweeney.

All those taking part were entered in a prize draw to win a Di-LOG CombiVolt 2 690V Proving Kit worth £169. The winner, chosen at random, was Douglas McSporran of SELECT Member firm John McSporran Ltd in Paisley.

Updates on SELECT activity were also delivered by the Directors of Function and Presidential Team, with Training

Officers providing the latest news from the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT).

Following feedback from our recent survey, Members were also encouraged to submit questions in advance to help the discussion on the night. These included a number of technical queries on topics including surge protection devices, Electrical Installation Condition Reports and thermal insulation. The answers to some of these questions can be found on pages 37-40.

Each Branch Update also included an AGM, during which branch officers and committee representatives were elected.

Only one change was made, with Donnie Calder taking over from Alistair Grant as Chair of the Inverness and North of Scotland Branch at the meeting on 11 March. Alistair now becomes Branch

NEW MEMBERS

Eight firms have become SELECT Members since 1 February 2021

Smillie Electrical Services, Ayrshire

PFMS Facilities Ltd, Lanarkshire

Advanced Electrical Services (Scot) Ltd, Glasgow & West of Scotland

Stuart Penrose Electrical Services Ltd, Edinburgh & South East Scotland

Miller Electrical Services, Inverness & North of Scotland

Electro Services Ltd, Edinburgh & South East Scotland

Gary Cairns Electrical, Edinburgh & South East Scotland Steven Brindle Electrical Ltd, Inverness & North of Scotland

BRANCH OFFICERS INVERNESS & NORTH OF SCOTLAND DONNIE ALISTAIR CALDER GRANT Chairman Vice Chairman

GLASGOW & WEST OF SCOTLAND DAVID HARRIS Chairman KENNY BERRIE Vice Chairman DAVID SMITH 3rd Representative IAN YOUNG 4th Representative AYRSHIRE JAMES COOPER Chairman CHARLES DOBBIE Vice Chairman LANARKSHIRE CRAIG MCGOWAN Chairman

ABERDEEN & NORTH EAST OF SCOTLAND ALICK STEWART SMITH 3rd ANDERSON Representative Chairman ERIC RAE Vice Chairman TAYSIDE TONY HARVEY Chairman KEITH SMITH Vice Chairman GRAHAM LYALL 3rd Representative

EDINBURGH & SOUTH EAST OF SCOTLAND GRAEME ANDERSON Chairman PAUL ERASMUSON Vice Chairman

DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY GORDON PATERSON Chairman JOHN WILSON Vice Chairman

PAUL SMITH Vice Chairman

Vice-Chair, as well as continuing in his role as SELECT Vice-President.

President Donald W Orr said: “It was good to see so many new Members attending for the first time, and also to see the introduction of some new measures developed in response to the recent survey.

“The creation of new colour-coded paperwork requested by Members certainly assisted in the smooth running

CHRISTOPHER LIDDELL 3rd Representative

ALASDAIR NOBLE 3rd Representative CRAIG NEISH 4th Representative

Handy guide to reverse charge VAT changes SELECT has put together a suite of handy information and practical templates about reverse charge VAT after the new system was introduced on 1 March.

The material includes a stepby-step brochure about the new charging method, as well as a cashflow calculator and templates of letters that can be sent to sub-contractors and customers.

In addition, there are a number of webinars and information videos which Members can watch to help familiarise themselves with the changes and what they need to do.

To access the resources, please visit www.select.org.uk or email memberservices @select.org.uk

of the meetings and will help with other Branch Updates going forward.”

With meeting restrictions still in place for the foreseeable future, preparations are currently being made to host the next Branch Updates in the same way. Details will be made available soon.

Getting to know Donnie Calder Page 50

Virtual meeting focuses on opportunities SELECT held an online Central Board meeting on 24 March, which was attended by more than 20 office bearers and staff members.

Delegates heard a presentation on business opportunities for electrical

contractors by Julie Beaufils, Secretary General of EuropeOn, as well as updates from all areas of the association and a presentation on the 2020 annual accounts by Martin Gill, Lead Partner at SELECT auditors BDO LLP.

The meeting, which was held on the Teams platform, also saw Donald W Orr and Alistair Grant nominated and confirmed as President and VicePresident respectively for another year.

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NEWS ROUND-UP

We’re part of a major team effort

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ELECT is among the members of Actuate UK, a new alliance for the multi-billion-pound UK engineering services sector that was launched in February via a virtual industry event.

The association is looking forward to playing a key role in the collective of eight leading trade, technology, research, and professional bodies as it delivers a single and consolidated voice for the sector.

As an agent for positive change, Actuate UK will support the delivery of a safer, more productive, and sustainable UK-built environment and, together with others in the industry, the UK Government and the devolved nations, will play a key role in essential national initiatives.

It will also lead the sector’s response to the building safety agenda and post-COVID green recovery, providing direction and championing the wider industry culture changes needed for their successful delivery.

Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, said: “SELECT was a very keen and active participant in the work of the

SEC Group, Actuate UK’s predecessor, both at UK but especially at Scottish level. We look forward to working with colleagues in the new Actuate UK body as it broadens its footprint across a whole host of activities linked to our Members’ work.”

As well as SELECT, Actuate UK consists of: ● The Building Engineering and Services Association (BESA) ● The Building Services Research and Information Association (BSRIA) ● The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE)

● ECA – Electrical and Engineering Services ● The Federation of Environmental Trade Associations (FETA) ● The Lift and Escalator Industry Association (LEIA) ● SNIPEF – The Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation.

The eight organisations bring a broad range of technical, practical, and commercial expertise to focus on four strategically important themes – skills, building safety, carbon reduction and commercial issues in 2021.

New EETF roles for Gordon and Mike The Electrical Engineering Training Foundation (EETF) has appointed Gordon McArthur as its new chair as it continues to help develop the next generation of skills.

The Managing Director of SELECT Member business WMQ Building Services takes over from Alex Guyan, who has 10

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been in the chair for eight years.

Gordon became MD of family-run WMQ in 2008, taking the reins from his father Jim, who was EETF director and chairman from 2002 until 2015.

He said: “It is a huge privilege to have been asked to take on this important role. The electrical sector becomes more complex

APRIL/MAY 2021

and high-tech with each passing year and training must be at the front and centre of everything we do.”

Alex said: “It is with great confidence that I pass the baton to Gordon. He is a dynamic business personality who is acutely aware of the effort we

Gordon McArthur (left) and Mike Stark

Routes to a great career

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ELECT has launched a new series of recommended training routes to provide clear advice on the right path to becoming a qualified electrician in Scotland.

Developed in partnership with The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP), the guidance is designed for both school leavers and those looking for a career in the electrical industry at any age.

The three routes clearly stress that becoming a fully qualified electrician can only be achieved with valid on-site work experience, as opposed to courses that offer no real-world practical skills.

Fiona Harper, Director of Employment and Skills at SELECT, said: “The message from these graphics is clear – becoming a qualified electrician is not possible without gaining the work-based Modern Apprenticeship and SVQ in Electrical Installation at SCQF 7.

“We hope the three routes will help people make informed decisions about the correct way to train and achieve a valued electrical qualification that is recognised by employers.”

The new infographics – which are hosted on the Electrical Careers website

need to make to keep our skills fit for purpose as the sector advances.”

Mike Stark, Director at Atalian Servest AMK, has also joined the board of the EETF, which was established

by SELECT in 1998 and provides grants to support training, funds a number of different projects

Minister praises COVID response ics at graph utes e h t o View /TESP-r bit.ly

– show three ways into the industry: apprentice training, adult training and the Crediting Electrotechnical Competence scheme.

Fiona, who is also The Secretary of The Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB), added: “Choosing one of these three routes is the only way to developing a trained, certified and competent individual.

“The value of the SJIB apprenticeship has continued to prove its worth throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 500 apprentices taken on in Scotland since last summer.

“This proves that both trainees and employers see the value in a proper grounding and training in all aspects of electrical work that will help build an electric future for us all.”

The next generation Page 18 Making the right decision Page 24 Take the road to success Page 26 Apprentice of the Year Page 29

and encourages continuing career progression. He said: “I fully acknowledge the central role that training must play if we are to have the skillsets we need to take us forward in a technologically exciting and fast-changing working environment.

“Having mentored employees and apprentices

at Arthur McKay, I know that there is a wealth of talent in this country, as well as an enthusiasm for, and understanding of, the potential rewards of a career as an electrician.”

Skills Minister Jamie Hepburn has joined the SJIB and Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) to salute employers for supporting young talent during COVID-19.

The industry bodies have applauded businesses for recruiting, training and nurturing trainees during the pandemic and say their dedication is the perfect example of “business backing talent” – the theme of Scottish Apprenticeship Week, which ran from 1-5 March.

Fiona Harper, The Secretary of the SJIB, said: “Even without additional support at this difficult time, employers have still been there, continuing to ensure the talent of tomorrow is being trained the right way. SELECT Members should be saluted for stepping in and offering to help with much-needed offers of work to the 80-plus apprentices who have been made redundant as a result of the lockdown.”

Anne Galbraith, chief executive of SECTT, said: “Employers have once again demonstrated their ongoing commitment to apprentices, stepping up when it really matters.”

This ongoing commitment to skills and training was also acknowledged

by Mr Hepburn, Scottish Government Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills. The minister said: “It has been highly encouraging to witness the determination of employers throughout Scotland’s electrical industry to keep investing in the future by training and supporting tomorrow’s highly skilled electricians.

“Apprenticeships are a core part of our skills system in Scotland, enabling employers to invest in their workforce and provide the skills that we need now and in the future.”

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CORONAVIRUS SICK PAY CLAIMS

By Michelle Courtney SELECT Benefits Manager

S

ELECT’s welfare benefits scheme covers sickness benefit for operatives and staff who are registered

by Member companies, who pay for it with a welfare credit.

These welfare benefits give peace of mind to employers and employees during uncertain times and ensure cover is in place when it is needed.

With claims for COVID-related illnesses becoming more noticeable – and of course expected – here are some FAQs for everything relating to sick pay claims and the processes involved with making a claim.

If an employee is off due to COVID, what are the rules for claiming?

We will process a claim for COVIDrelated illnesses, using a process that’s the same as for any other claim. For operatives, we pay out from week three onwards and for staff members from day four onwards. A claim form would be submitted along with a fit note or proof of the illness.

Our employee does not have a fit note but has tested positive for COVID and needs to selfisolate. What do we send as proof of a claim?

All we would require is a completed claim form and a copy of the employee’s confirmation that they have tested positive. This can be a copy of the text or any other documentation they may have.

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We have all the answers you need The COVID-19 pandemic has seen the SELECT welfare credit scheme offer peace of mind thanks to sickness benefit payouts. But as an employer, how does the scheme work? And how do you make a claim if an employee does fall ill? Our in-house expert is here with all the answers…

Operatives’ sickness benefit Operatives only. Grade-related and payable after 10 days’ absence.

Technician Approved electrician Electrician Labourer/adult trainees

Weeks 3 – 24

£180 per week

Weeks 25 – 52

£90 per week

Weeks 3 – 24

£170 per week

Weeks 25 – 52

£85 per week

Weeks 3 – 24

£160 per week

Weeks 25 – 52

£80 per week

Weeks 3 – 24

£150 per week

Weeks 25 – 52

£75 per week

The scheme offers peace of mind for you and your people if someone becomes ill

Staff sickness benefit Payable after three days’ absence, for a maximum of 18 weeks in a two-year period.

Salary

Salary

£ 5,500 – £8,500

£53 per week

£16,001 – £17,500

£149 per week

£ 8,501 – £10,000

£60 per week

£17,501 – £19,000

£169 per week

£10,001 – £11,500

£80 per week

£19,001 – £20,500

£188 per week

£11,501 – £13,000

£99 per week

£20,501 – £22,000

£207 per week

£13,001 – £14,500

£118 per week

£22,000 +

£226 per week

£14,501 – £16,000

£130 per week

The payment is on a scale and is determined by a worker’s wage

An employee is shielding after receiving a letter instructing them to do so. Can we claim for the additional sick pay for them?

Yes, a claim can be made. You would simply send in a claim form, along with a copy of the letter they have received.

We would then require confirmation from the employer as to how long the employee is off work, which can be done weekly via email. We would then process the sick pay using the email as proof.

If an operative has tested positive and self-isolates for the two weeks and then returns to work, is there any point sending a claim in if you don’t pay out until week three?

We always advise sending in a claim, no matter how long the person is off sick. We have an eight-week linking period for our claims, so if the person goes off sick again within that period they wouldn’t need to do their waiting days again.

We didn’t realise that a claim could be sent in for COVIDrelated illnesses.

Can we send in a claim now?

We can backdate any claims by one month so if your claim is within that time please send

it in. If the person is still off and it’s been over one month, please send everything in and we’ll process what we can.

How long is the sickness benefit paid out for?

We pay out up to 52 weeks sickness benefit for operatives and 18 weeks for staff members.

Is an employee entitled to statutory sick pay (SSP) as well as payments for the additional sick pay?

each week for operatives is determined by their grade, so we have technician, approved, electrician and labourer/adult trainee. The sick pay for staff is determined by their salary and is on a our y scale. The claim forms d a o l Down forms at for both staff and claim /selectoperatives so request bit.ly efits this information to ben be completed.

Yes, the additional sick pay should be added to the SSP.

Do the sick pay payments have tax and national insurance implications?

Yes, all payments would have to be processed through the payroll system with the relevant deductions being made.

How much sick pay will my employee receive though the benefits scheme?

The amounts payable

Where can the claim forms be found?

The claim forms are on the SELECT website at bit.ly/select-benefits.

They can also be requested by emailing Benefits Manager Michelle Courtney on michelle.courtney@ select.org.uk

If we have any questions about sick pay or any other aspect of the welfare benefits cover, who should we contact?

Please contact the SELECT Benefits Department by calling 0131 445 9213. Alternatively, email michelle. courtney@select.org.uk or Benefits Administrator Lynne Macdonald on lynne.macdonald@ select.org.uk.

FIND OUT MORE A brochure about the SELECT welfare credit scheme is available to download at www.select.org.uk/for-contractors CABLEtalk

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CORONAVIRUS TRAINING

A return to class learning As the country prepares to emerge from lockdown, SELECT has introduced a range of comprehensive COVID-19 health and safety measures to ensure that selected training courses can return to The Walled Garden

By Jenny Cryans SELECT Training Manager

W

e are delighted to be restarting partial training sessions at our headquarters outside Edinburgh

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after reviewing our health and safety procedures to ensure Members are kept safe. Staggered start times, reduced class sizes, clear signage and a range of hygiene measures are all now in place as The Walled Garden prepares to receive delegates again.

Developed in line with Scottish Government guidance, we hope these COVID-19 measures will enable our Training team to safely deliver the practical part of our inspection and testing training courses from April onwards.

Plans are now under way to allow restricted numbers to attend our Training Centre for these initial courses, with a maximum of six delegates to ensure we have enough room to socially distance in the classroom environment.

We have reviewed the course content in detail and are delivering as much as we can virtually, with reduced time in the classroom for the practical element.

We are ready to receive delegates again for classroom learning

In addition, we have put safety measures in place to ensure that both our delegates and tutors are working in a safe environment while carrying out this part of the programme.

Everything is being done in line with the Scottish Government’s Route Map and we will obviously keep attendance under review depending on the local and national position.

SQA (SELECT) Customised Award in Initial Verification

Two inspection and testing courses will be available under the new procedures, the first of which is the SQA (SELECT) Customised Award in Initial Verification.

Also known as the 209 course, this session is broken into three sections, all of which candidates must successfully complete:

testing and certification of new electrical installations including additions and alterations.

SQA (SELECT) Customised Award in Inspection and Testing of Electrical Installations including Periodic Inspection

FIND OUT MORE A brochure about SELECT’s many training courses is available to download at www.select.org.uk/for-contractors

● Part One (online) – an introduction to BS 7671. ● Day One (online) – delivered as a virtual classroom session from 8.45am to 3pm, this covers initial verification and the inspection and testing of new installations.

● Day Two (practical) – delivered in a SELECT training room, this session will take around two hours.

This SQA course has been designed for qualified electricians who wish to ensure their skills and knowledge are up to date in relation to inspection,

The second course to be part-held at The Walled Garden is the SQA (SELECT) Customised Award in Inspection and Testing of Electrical Installations including Periodic Inspection.

Also known as the 214 course, this module is split into two parts, both of which candidates must successfully complete: ● Day One (online) – delivered as a virtual classroom session from 8.45am to 3pm, this covers initial verification and inspection and testing of new installations. ● Day Two (practical) – delivered at the SELECT training room from 8.30am to 5pm, delegates will complete the practical part of the initial verification on arrival.

The tutor will then deliver the periodic inspection session.

This SCQF Level 7 course has been designed for qualified electricians who want to cover the full scope of inspection and testing and is recommended for those involved in the inspection and testing of both new and existing installations.

We are delighted to be able to offer these courses as we deliver more training across a range of topics. Members can be reassured that if they visit The Walled Garden, delegates and tutors will be working in a safe environment.

For further information or to book, please visit www.select. org.uk/training call 0131 445 5577 or email training@select.org.uk

New health and saftey measures are in place

New ultraviolet installer course – Page 34 Revised In-service Inspection & Testing of Electrical Equipment Course – Page 35 CABLEtalk

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CORONAVIRUS VOLUNTEERING

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ELECT Finance Assistant Carly Hamilton is preparing to start a new role – visiting hospital patients to help them overcomes loneliness caused by lockdown.

The 28-year-old has volunteered to drop in to the wards at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, liaising between patients and their families and helping to ease the workload on health staff.

After receiving training and her first vaccination, Carly will spend a minimum of three hours a week at the Infirmary, which is just a short walk from her home in from Gilmerton, Edinburgh.

She said: “I like to think of myself as a caring person and wanted to do it as I felt it would benefit patients to have a bit of normal conversation, especially as a lot of people still can’t have visitors.

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Carly cares for others Lockdown has been a lonely time for many hospital patients, so our Finance Assistant is helping out by visiting them for a friendly chat “My gran is also in a care home and I found it really difficult not being able to go and see her. It made me realise that other people might not have any contact with their family, so a friend who’d been volunteering suggested I do it.”

Carly underwent three online training sessions in March to prepare her for the weekly visits. She will now sit and chat with patients of all ages, helping them make video calls to family if they’re not tech-savvy.

© TreasureGalore / Shutterstock.com

Carly is looking forward to making a cup of tea or coffee for the patients

She said: “As well as providing company, I’ll be doing things the nurses might not have time for, such as making tea and coffee and ensuring patients’ water jugs are full.

“I’ll also be helping to ensure that patients are wearing face masks when they need to and are following social distancing procedures and other COVID-19 measures.

“I’m happy to do my bit, even in a small way, and think it will be really rewarding; some people haven’t seen their families for months on end, so even a video call can make a big difference.”

Carly added: “The training sessions were really interesting and I learned a lot about confidentiality, equality and diversity, as well as dealing with vulnerable people and children in different scenarios.

I realise now that it’s not just a case of going in and chatting!”

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APPRENTICES MEMBER STORY

The next generation SELECT Member David White reveals the benefits apprentices have brought to his business over the last 30 years – while his trainees give their verdicts on their journey to becoming electricians 18

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A

By Sarah Wolstencroft

fter more than 30 years running David White Electrical (DRW Ltd), David White has learnt the huge value that apprentices can bring to a business.

They’ve helped his firm grow and develop, brought enthusiasm and fresh talent, and allowed David’s son to follow in his footsteps by completing his own apprenticeship.

As the industry looks ahead to the post-COVID-19 recovery and beyond, it’s never been more important to ensure there’s a new generation of skilled and qualified electricians.

“The industry needs good apprentices and companies need them to continue to grow and deliver high quality work” said David. “There’s 15 of us in my business and we’re like one big working family – apprentices are an integral part of the business in the past and now looking to the future.

“We’ve always had apprentices; I like to see them grow in confidence and experience and become confident high-quality electricians. At the moment we have two who were due to go back to college in March and another who is due to start in September. I’ve also been in touch with the local college about accessing another couple for the future.”

Opportunities to learn

David set up his business in Gretna in 1989 and has always had apprentices in the firm.

He believes more young people should be introduced to apprenticeships in school to help them understand the long-term life opportunities they achieve in a work-based environment.

He said: “Universities get a lot of publicity but apprenticeships are just as important. Employers want to know that the people they employ can communicate, as well as understand what they are doing, and completing a

David with Andrew and Macauley

“Apprenticeships can teach you so much more than just a trade. You have to learn how to communicate well with so many different types of people”

vocational qualification allows you to see them first hand. Our apprentices learn so much more by working and doing.

QUICK FACTS “Apprenticeships can teach you so much more than just a trade. You have to learn how to communicate well with so many different types of people and I’ve seen how my apprentices mature throughout their apprenticeship becoming David White confident, friendly, articulate, Electrical professional electricians.

(DRW Ltd) They soon become a valuable BASED: part of the team they work in.

Gretna “I always ensure there is a PHONE: mentor attached to support 01461 337303 and teach each apprentice.

WEB: Mentors are qualified and drw-ltd.co.uk more experienced and

someone who they can ask for advice.

My mentors keep them on track and focused on the job at hand to ensure they do it correctly and show them a solid, strong work ethic.”

Successful careers

It’s not only the apprentices who get the benefit of this support, guidance and, in the end, qualification and trade, but also the companies where they work. David’s own business has been able to expand over the years because of his commitment to taking on trainees.

And he’s proud of the successful careers his former apprentices have forged, either by staying with DRW or setting up on their own, and the fact that they are still friends.

“Obviously there’s a cost to the Continued on page 20 >>> CABLEtalk

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APPRENTICES MEMBER STORY >>> Continued from page 19

business but it’s worth it because of the additional help the apprentices bring,” said David. “The long-term benefits of developing home-grown talent is important to continuity and ongoing success. They allow the business stay competitive and personally I also like seeing people do well so it’s great to see the apprentices succeed.

“One of my previous apprentices is in Birmingham, doing exceptionally well with his own business, another is in Inverness working on wind farm contracts. Another two have set up in our local area and are also very successful. I don’t see them as a threat as we all offer different services and I’ve got a lot respect for them all.

“I fully support my whole team, past and present. We speak all the time and we’ll help each other out whenever we need to.”

David has seen first-hand the opportunities that an apprenticeship can open up. Before setting up his own

David, front, has always believed in taking on apprentices to strengthen his team 20

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“We reviewed our business vehicles policy, and also how we accessed the various sites while ensuring that the appropriate PPE was in place” business, he spent a year working in Australia using the skills he’d gained during his apprenticeship.

He said: “Once you’ve got your trade it’s set in stone and you’ll always find work if you want it. I travelled to Australia and because I had a trade it meant I could network straight away which was important. A trade gives you so many opportunities in life to go wherever you want.”

The challenge of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought challenges for all businesses, including

David’s. At the start of the first lockdown he was kept busy with emergency callouts and also worked for a company producing PPE for the UK and Scottish Governments, installing machinery at sites on both sides of the border.

The firm’s workload has remained high and, like all businesses, it’s had to change how it operates to follow the latest health and safety guidelines.

David made sure the apprentices’ views were taken on board when the new processes were developed.

Continued on page 22 >>>

THE APPRENTICE’S VIEW Macauley Hawthorne is a 20-year-old first year apprentice who currently splits his time between working for DRW and attending Dumfries & Galloway College I’m half way through the first year of my apprenticeship and I’m really enjoying it so far – there’s plenty of work to do. Lockdown meant I only got four weeks of college last year so I can’t wait to get back there and get going again.

“I spent a year working with the business first before I started my apprenticeship, which really helped prepare me and let me see what the job was like. It made it much more enjoyable.

I’d been at college doing an electrical course before but coming on to the job was a really different experience.

“My favourite part of the job is going to new builds, I really love working on them.

You’re always doing something different as well.

“I couldn’t ask for a better boss than David, he’s brilliant with all of us. As it’s a smaller company it’s much more personal – you’re not just a number and you feel like you’re really learning.

“The communication is great and you’re always just a phone call away from someone. My SECTT training officer has been brilliant too, he’s really easy to communicate with.

“Looking at the future, I want to finish my apprenticeship and get qualified and one day I’d love to have my own business.

“I’d definitely recommend an apprenticeship to anyone else who’s considering one.

“I thought it would be good but it’s been so much better than I expected. It’s so useful to have a trade behind you, especially at the moment – it’s something you’ll always have to fall back on.”

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APPRENTICES MEMBER STORY “I’d advise anyone who is thinking about taking on an apprentice to go for it. It’s a really good way to keep your business competitive and it’s great to watch them grow and succeed” >>> Continued from page 20

He said: “Through and coming out of lockdown, we were very careful about how we travelled, so we reviewed our business vehicles policy, and also how we accessed the various sites while ensuring that the appropriate PPE was in place.

“The team understood their own responsibilities and that included our apprentices, who took it all in their stride. The team worked in bubbles and the same apprentice would always be with the same electrical engineer.”

Looking to the future, David plans to keep investing in apprenticeships and encourages other firms to do the same.

He said: “The Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) will provide you with support and help with funding for things like paperwork and books – it’s really helpful. They work hard to keep the industry going and the colleges are a great help and support as well.

“I’d advise anyone who is thinking about taking on an apprentice to go for it. It’s a really good way to keep your business competitive and it’s great to watch them grow and succeed.”

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THE ELECTRICIAN’S VIEW Andrew Jancey started with DRW in 2006 when he was 17 and stayed with them after finishing his apprenticeship in 2010 I thought about going to university but I decided to go for an apprenticeship instead. I’d done some work experience so I knew a little of what to expect. I loved the fact that I was earning money while I was learning a trade. You gain confidence and learn so much as you go along, and not just the electrical side of it. You don’t think about it at the time, but you learn how to interact with customers and get a whole new skillset that you probably wouldn’t get at university.

“I worked with a good set of tradesmen with a range of background when I was an apprentice which helped me get a wide variety of skills.

It’s a challenge to put what you’ve learned at college into practice but you’re surrounded by people who can help you and teach you on site.

“When I qualified as an electrician there was plenty of work here so David offered me the chance to stay on. I like the different work we do here, we do a lot of varied jobs. Now I’m the person working with an apprentice and you see it from the other side.

When you’re teaching someone else, you remember what it was like to be in their situation and you know what they’re going through because of your own experience.

“The industry is changing all the time and the technology you’re using is constantly improving.

You get a skillset you can travel anywhere with and there’s a lot of space for progression. Choosing an apprenticeship opens up so many doors.”

APPRENTICES MEMBER VIDEO

‘It’s been the best decision I ever made’

For one SELECT Member and his young trainee, an apprenticeship has been a richly rewarding experience for both sides, as they explain in a special SELECT film produced for this year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Week

By Iain Mason Director of Membership & Communications

C

raig Gallagher is in no doubt that apprenticeships are the perfect way to pass on vital skills to the rising stars of the industry – and his latest young trainee agrees with him wholeheartedly.

The CEO of SELECT Member company Quinnergy Group is a firm believer in training the talent of tomorrow, as he outlines in a new SELECT video produced for Scottish Apprenticeship Week (SAW).

Entitled Business Backing Talent – the theme of this year’s SAW – the film features Craig and young trainee Caitlin Kearney discussing their respective reasons for choosing an apprenticeship, and how the scheme has been a success for both sides.

As well as celebrating the many benefits that apprentices bring to 24

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businesses, individuals and the economy, the video also salutes Scottish businesses’ ongoing commitment to electrical apprenticeships during challenging times.

Filmed at Quinnergy’s premises in Strathaven, South Lanarkshire, Craig uses the film to explain his rationale for taking on apprentices at the fast-

growing company, which has made significant progress by delivering essential services during the COVID-19 period.

He says: “I wanted to pass my experience, and the experience of my tradesmen, on to the new, up-andcoming stars of the industry. The apprentices, I have found, are eager to work and to go the extra mile.

“If you are a really good tradesman, you have a knowledge, a craftsmanship, and if you take it to the next level, nothing can replace that. I would say that’s one of the best reasons to go for an apprenticeship. It’s been the best thing I’ve ever done.” eo at the vid Watch AWvid21 S bit.ly/

The film hears from Caitlin Kearney, who talks about why she wanted to be an electrician

The video also features an interview with Caitlin, a first-year apprentice at Quinnergy, who reveals her reasons for choosing an electrical career.

The 21-year-old trainee says: “I wanted to become a qualified electrician because my grandfather was an electrician and my dad was in the building trade, so I’ve always had that background.

“Most girls say things like ‘It’s a man’s job’ or that you couldn’t do it, so I just wanted to stand out – and go ahead and do it.

“Apprenticeships are the way forward and the future for people leaving school.

I’m learning things every day and a trade is the best bet for me.”

Caitlin also talks about the help, advice and guidance she receives from both her Quinnergy colleagues and training officer at the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), who encourage her to push boundaries and provide positive feedback.

Now available to view on SELECT’s YouTube channel, the video was produced in partnership with the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB), SECTT and Unite the Union.

Fiona Harper, Director of Employment and Skills at SELECT, and also The Secretary of the SJIB, said: “Apprentices are the future of QUICK FACTS the industry and we hope this video will help to encourage many more people to consider an electrical apprenticeship as a rewarding career option.”

Anne Galbraith, CEO of SECTT, added: “We also want to use it as an example of how Scotland’s businesses continue to back talent and Quinnergy support apprenticeships, Group despite the challenges facing us all in the current climate.”

BASED: Scottish Apprenticeship Strathaven Week this year ran from PHONE: March 1 to 5, and focused on 01355 201206 how employers and learning WEB: providers have embraced quinnergy.co.uk innovation to help apprentices learn, achieve and progress.

Anne said: “As an indication of the success in attracting enthusiastic and energetic young people to the future of the sector, more than 500 electrical apprentices have been recruited over the year of COVID-19, a number of whom are female.”

Fiona added: “Diversity is a key dynamic for powering the future and, for the increasing numbers of young women who are signing up to the profession, comprehensive and tailored training can open many doors and create a rewarding career.”

“I’m learning things every day and a trade is the best bet for me”

Craig Gallagher shares his experiences of apprenticeships in the film

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APPRENTICES MEMBER STORY

Setting out on the road to success

O

n the day apprentices start with us, they’re told we’ll endeavour to provide good training across a wide range of aspects related to the electrical trade and our ongoing workload. We also tell them that the next few years will be an important part of their life and future, and they’re expected to show willing, listen, learn and do their best both on site and at college.

On site, we normally work in pairs, i.e. an apprentice and a tradesman. Our workload includes new build housing, domestic rewires, tenanted house repairs, EICRs, factory and commercial property installation and maintenance, controlled entry systems, CCTV, car park barriers and automatic door installation and maintenance. Our

Robert Aitken is Managing Director of SELECT Member business Power Distributing Contracting (PDC) Ltd, who are based in Larkhall, Lanarkshire. As a long-time supporter of apprentices, he talks us through the journey each trainee undertakes at the firm – and why he believes it’s essential for electrical businesses to continue backing the talent of tomorrow… apprentices are trained in all aspects of these duties and, in time, are expected to become conversant and competent in each subject’s installation and maintenance.

Each apprentice works with different tradesmen. We have some that specialise in different aspects of our

“We now have five very able and competent tradesmen, all of whom served their apprenticeship with our company” 26

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work, so each trainee gets chances on each core discipline at various times during their training.

We also assess their progress at regular intervals via reports from both the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) and the respective tradesmen, and if we feel the apprentice is lagging in one subject, we try to provide additional training on that aspect. SECTT will also flag up any areas that the apprentice may require more experience on.

Help when it’s needed

If we feel apprentices are struggling with a particular aspect of their work, e.g. two-way switching or control Continued on page 28 >>>

QUICK FACTS

Power Distributing Contracting (PDC) Ltd BASED: Larkhall PHONE: 01698 889733

Robert and Nathan are part of a team that is firmly focused on training apprentices

THE VIEW FROM THE TOP Anne Galbraith is Chief Executive of SECTT. Here, she congratulates Robert, Nathan and PDC on their continued business success and applauds their joint approach to the job.

It is testament to a company that the apprentices who trained with them either stay with the company or go onto to have success of their own.

As Robert noted, it is sometimes good for a newly-qualified electrician to leave the company and gain wider experience and then bring that back to the company that

trained them. I applaud employers like PDC who continually commit to training and treat their staff well – it is evident that they reap the rewards that this brings.

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APPRENTICES MEMBER STORY >>> Continued from page 26

circuits, they’re given time on our in-store ‘training board’, where a supervising tradesman will help them iron out whatever’s puzzling them. We find this has been very successful over the years.

In the latter years of an apprenticeship, we always try to give our trainees small jobs to do without constant supervision. One of our senior tradesmen will then check every aspect of the work and sit down and go through the job, picking up on points where improvement is required. If the job is done well, the apprentice is congratulated and made a bit of a fuss of – we find this boosts the ego and confidence massively.

The power of apprenticeships

In our opinion, apprentices are a massive benefit and investment to every company and, from our own experience, the training they’re given has also benefited us greatly.

We now have five very able and competent tradesmen, all of whom served their apprenticeship with our company.

Over the years we’ve trained probably more than 50 apprentices, some of whom have gone on to become supervisors and managers in bigger companies, and others who now have their own contracting companies both here and in one case, Australia. We’re obviously very proud of all our current and ex-apprentices and the progress in life they’re making.

At the moment we have one Adult Trainee and five apprentices at PDC. The COVID-19 situation unfortunately means that most of our contracts have been scaled back or are on hold. But when the situation eases, there is no doubt that our workforce will increase, which in turn will mean more apprenticeships will be available.

Support and satisfaction

Since we started the business in 2000, we’ve always encouraged apprentices and tried to offer them when the situation allowed. In fact, our very 28

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“Our very first apprentice is still with us – he left after his time was out and eventually came back after gaining a variety of experience” first apprentice is still with us – he left after his time was out and eventually came back after gaining a variety of experience and has been with us now for seven years.

Since we became a Member of SELECT in 2003, we’ve worked closely with SECTT and there is no doubt that the training programme they manage on behalf of the Scottish

Joint Industry Board (SJIB) is excellent. Advice from SECTT on apprentice and training matters are highly regarded within our company, and we really couldn’t provide suitable apprentice training without them.

On a personal level, I’ve recommended SECTT to other established and some newly-formed companies within our industry.

THE FORMER APPRENTICE’S VERDICT Nathan Crighton passed his FICA in July 2020 and now works as a qualified electrician with PDC. Here’s his verdict on his apprenticeship with the firm: I’d always wanted a trade and joined the pre-apprenticeship course at New College Lanarkshire, Motherwell campus.

I did my work experience with PDC and after four weeks on site they offered me a job and an apprenticeship.

I found the apprenticeship good. The 1st Stage blocks supported my learning on site and I enjoyed the science as I’d done physics at school, which made it easier to understand. The lecturers were also good at showing us the practical side, so I got support with a bit of everything – domestic, industrial and commercial.

I now do a lot of testing, lighting and rewiring – a good range of work. During the pandemic I was furloughed, but not for long, and recently I’ve been working outside unless it’s essential and we are permitted to enter premises.

I want to stay on the tools as I really enjoy my job and will definitely sit my ACA in the future. I would recommend becoming an apprentice electrician as it offers you a good trade, plus I work for a

Nathan enjoyed his time as an apprentice good company who treat all apprentices well and look after their staff.

I’ve enjoyed everything so far and wouldn’t change a thing. I liked my college, the portfolio work and particularly working on site – plus my SECTT training officer was always there and was really knowledgeable and supportive when I did need help.

APPRENTICES APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

Ready for a bright future Hard-working Amy McDonald shunned a desk job to train as an electrician and has now been named her college’s Apprentice of the Year

A

my McDonald’s decision to choose an apprenticeship instead of an office job paid off when she was crowned North East Scotland College (NESCol) Apprentice of the Year.

The apprentice, who is close to completing her Modern Apprenticeship in Electrical Installation, was announced in an online ceremony on 4 March.

Amy has been practically minded from a young age – her grandad was an electrician, so being around him influenced her future career direction.

She said: “After school I studied electrical engineering at college and then tried office jobs but knew it wasn’t for me. When I saw the electrical apprenticeship advertised with Aberdeenshire Council I applied and was lucky enough to be chosen.”

Amy now goes into vacant council houses to help strip, reinsulate, rewire and upgrade properties. As the only female in a team of joiners, plasterers, painters and electricians she says she enjoys her work.

She said: “The second fix is the most

Amy has been honoured for her ability and dedication

“I consider her one of most skilful and professional apprentices I’ve ever encountered” enjoyable part of my job. After we’ve wired it the joiners come in and then we go back in and install the accessories and test the installation.”

The next steps for Amy are completing her Final Integrated Competence Assessment (FICA) and gaining the experience to become an approved electrician.

Michael Geddes, SECTT Training

Officer, said: “I’ve been Amy’s training officer for the past few years, during which she’s demonstrated excellent skills and attitude. She is without doubt an apprentice of the highest calibre, producing positive results to a very high standard in all tasks.

“I consider her one of most skilful and professional apprentices I’ve ever encountered. She takes everything in her stride, maintains a calm approach and has an independent ability to problem solve. She has the ability to accomplish anything she turns her hand to and deserves lots of praise for winning this award.”

Anne Galbraith, Chief Executive of SECTT, said: “Amy is an inspiration and an excellent role model. In a maledominated environment, she’s proved that females can and do excel as electrical apprentices. NESCol has excellent facilities and lecturing staff and I’d like to congratulate everyone nominated.”

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FEATURES MEMBER VIDEOS

The one to watch

As part of our ongoing mission to keep you in the loop with practical advice and technical know-how, we’ve launched SELECT TV, an exclusive online video resource that is only available to Members

By Linda Rolfe Events, Marketing & Communications Coordinator

A

s the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic sees us moving to a more digital world, SELECT has set up a Members-only video library, offering a world of information and advice films.

SELECT TV is an exclusive online initiative that delivers invaluable information on a range of topics that can only be accessed by Members.

As you’ll see from these pages, we’ve

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been busy over the past few months preparing to launch eight new videos that include: ● TECHNICAL advice from our in-house team of experienced Technical Advisers ● CONTRACT guidance from respected SELECT consultant Professor Rudi Klein ● COMMERCIAL and PAYMENT information from industry expert Len Bunton.

We’re now planning to add to the library with short films on employment and health and safety issues as we build up a unique collection of visual aids.

Professor Klein is already busy on his next two advice videos – the ‘battle of the forms’ and contract documentation – in which he’ll use his years of experience to advise on paperwork pitfalls and the dangers that lurk when it comes to liability.

Although they may cover many topics, the videos from Len and Rudi all have one thing in common – they’re designed to be clear and concise, offering practical advice in bite-sized five-minute sessions that are easy to understand and follow.

As you’d expect, the technical videos will be longer as they go into more detail, giving viewers a step-by-step guide through a range of topical issues.

After our three-part special on EICR coding, next on the agenda for the Technical team is a range of new videos for our upcoming online Toolbox Talks in May and June, which will cover subjects including: ● Cable sizing ● Domestic ventilation ● Energy efficiency, smart technology and carbon reduction ● Proposed changes in Amendment 2 of BS 7671: 2018.

Again, all of this content will ONLY be available for Members as a benefit of membership, with the videos hosted on a secure YouTube site, hidden from public view.

Later this year, we will add the videos to the Members section of the new SELECT website, where SELECT TV will have its own dedicated web page, only accessible by Members.

We’re keen to add relevant content all the time – so please get in touch if there’s anything you like to see on the small screen.

If you would like us to cover a particular topic in our new Member videos, please email linda.rolfe@select.org.uk

EICR CODING Developed by our Technical team in response to Member demand, this in-depth tutorial provides a thorough grounding in Electrical Inspection Condition Reports (EICRs), and use of classification codes in accordance with BS 7671:2018. Part 1 gives a history of periodic inspection, testing and reporting, while Part 2 focuses on examples of observations and applicable codes.

In Part 3, we discuss completion of the EICR, together with guidance on certification of remedial works.

Watch Pa rt now at bit 2 .ly/ STV-EICR 2

Watch Pa rt now at bit 1 .ly/ STV-EICR 1

DESIGN LIABILITY

LOW-COST ADJUDICATIONS

What exactly is ‘design’? When do I take on responsibility for it? And what should I look out for and avoid? Professor Rudi Klein is here with all the answers to help guide you through the maze when it comes to the world of design.

Watch no w ly/STV-d at bit. esign

Watch Pa rt now at bit 3 .ly/ STV-EICR 3

Watch no wa ly/STV-p t bit. aid

In this video, Len Bunton outlines the role of low-cost adjudications and summary procedures, how they can help you, and what steps you should take to ensure you are prepared, including keeping accurate and up-to-date records.

TOP TIPS FOR GETTING PAID

Watch no w at ly/STV-L bit.

CA

The problem of late and withheld payments is all-too-common, so Len Bunton has provided advice for Members, offering practical pointers including payment schedules, detailed applications and agreeing matters beforehand.

TUNE IN TO OUR OTHER VIDEOS

In addition to these four new Member-only films, Rudi has produced a video on suspension for non-payment, details of which can be found on page 33. Len has also helped develop an exclusive SELECT Member film about the Conflict Avoidance Process, details of which can be found on page 44.

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FEATURES SUSPENDING OPERATIONS

Time to press pause?

Our in-house specialist responds to a recent Member inquiry by advising on how to suspend operations if you encounter payment problems on a live project Without such a right there wasn’t an effective way to enforce entitlement, so I wasn’t too popular when I insisted that the UK Government should introduce a statutory right to suspend works for non or late payment.

To my surprise, the politicians relented and the result was Section 112 in the Construction Act, which established the statutory right to suspend one’s work for non or late payment. So how does it work?

Seven days

By Professor Rudi Klein Barrister and SELECT Consultant

I

t is now more than 25 years ago that I was involved in putting together legislation – the Construction Act – to improve payment practices. You may find it surprising that at that time there was no legal right to suspend performance of your work for non or late payment.

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As you’ll see from the diagram on this page, the key provision is that you must issue a seven days’ notice of intention to suspend your contractual obligations.

It should be noted that the reference is to suspension of your ‘obligations under the contract’.

This could be wider than just suspension of the ‘works’ – you could, for example, cease carrying out any design work. An example notice of suspension is on these pages.

Let’s talk about timing

In everything you do, it’s vital that

Payment due date passes (Wait 7 days)

Issue notice of suspension (Wait 7 days)

Payment due date passes (Wait 7 days)

Issue notice of suspension (Wait 7 days)

Payment due date passes (Wait 7 days)

Issue notice of suspension (Wait 7 days)

you carefully read your contract to check your payment timings.

You should be able to identify the due payment dates and the final date for payment.

The due payment date marks the beginning of a process that leads to your payment entitlement being determined by the final date for payment (which could be 30, 40, 50 plus days from the due date).

During that process, your paying party may have issued a payment notice, within five days of the payment due date, and also a pay less notice, which can be issued up to a day before the final date for payment.

The amount due to you would be stated in the initial notice unless revised by a pay less notice.

If the payer hasn’t issued the initial notice, and should have done so, your application could become the due sum, subject to any pay less notice.

Full payment made

Carry on working

Payment remains outstanding

Suspend work and leave site

Payment remains outstanding

Suspend work and leave site

WATCH NOW Rudi has made an exclusive video for SELECT Members that gives tips on suspension for non-payment. Watch it now at bit.ly/STV-suspend

Full payment made

Payment still not made

Return to site

Consider debt recovery options

Claim reasonable sum for costs and expenses

This diagram shows the steps you should take if you haven’t been paid – and when you should take them

Top tips

Finally, here’s my list of four things to remember: ● Suspension is generally a last resort when due payments are becoming later and later – this could be the result of impending insolvency on your client’s part ● Always issue the notice – just walking off site without doing so is a breach of contract ● If you have to suspend, make sure that you recover your reasonable costs ● When issuing a notice of suspension, you’ll have to wait until the final date for payment has passed.

i

GOT A QUESTION FOR RUDI? If you have a query that you would like Rudi to help with, please email iain.mason@select.org.uk

EXAMPLE LETTER - NOTICE OF SUSPENSION After numerous phone calls to your accounts department, you have failed to discharge the outstanding payment of [£AMOUNT] for work carried out last month.

This sum was due on [DATE] in accordance with the above contract.

In the circumstances we have no alternative but to exercise our right under Section 112, Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 (the Construction Act) to suspend further performance of our contractual obligations.

This email therefore constitutes the seven days’ notice of intention to suspend performance required by Section 112 (2) until payment in the sum of [£AMOUNT] is discharged in full.

On [DATE] I will instruct my employees to cease further work at the [NAME OF SITE, BUILDING OR PROJECT] and remove all equipment, materials and goods belonging to my company unless, in the meantime, payment has been made.

I should add that Section 112 makes clear that any period of suspension is ignored for the purpose of calculating the contract completion date. Furthermore, I have a right to a reasonable sum in respect of costs and expenses that my company has incurred in taking this action.

Such costs and expenses will include the cost of demobilisation and remobilisation.

I trust that suspension will not be necessary and look forward to receipt of the outstanding sum.

Regards etc, CABLEtalk

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TRAINING UV-C LIGHTING

By Jenny Cryans Training Manager

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o help Members expand their lighting knowledge, SELECT has added an ultraviolet C (UV-C) trained installer course to the ever-growing choice of online learning now available.

The course is run by Signify through its Lighting Academy, which offers a comprehensive range of educational resources for the sector.

Designed for both installers and resellers, the course covers UV-C upper air disinfection modules, the basics of UV-C, and safety and installation, including an assessment.

Focusing on UV-C solutions to disinfect air and surfaces to make public and commercial spaces safer, all content has been written from an installer perspective, focusing on the relevant knowledge before, during, and after installation.

Signify, formerly Philips Lighting, is the world leader in lighting for professionals, consumers and lighting for the Internet of Things. Its energy efficient lighting products, systems and services enable its customers to enjoy a superior quality of light, and make

The course will teach Members how to fit high quality lighting solutions

Spotlight on skills

As it continues to develop its training resources, SELECT has teamed up with Signify to offer Members a new course in the installation of ultraviolet disinfection lighting

Signify is committed to making people’s lives safer and more comfortable 34

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people’s lives safer and more comfortable, businesses more productive and cities more liveable.

Signify is also taking a leading role to bring better light to the world and to help provide a more sustainable future.

To do this, it delivers light which is energy efficient, saves resources, and improves lives.

It also ‘walks the talk’ through achieving carbon neutrality status in 2020 by sending zero waste to landfill

across all manufacturing sites, using 100% renewable electricity and engaging suppliers for a sustainable supply chain.

Visit the Signify Lighting Academy at https://go.bluevolt. com/sla/s For more information on UV-C, or to get in touch with a member of the team, visit www.philips.co.uk/uvc

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TRAINING INSPECTION AND TESTING OF EQUIPMENT

Testing your knowledge

SELECT continues to add resources to its digital classroom with the new revised In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment course

By Jenny Cryans Training Manager

S

ELECT is currently preparing to launch a revised online version of one of its most popular courses – In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment, Including Portable Electrical Equipment.

We’ve been busy updating and amending the course since the release of the 5th Edition of the IET’s Code of Practice for In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment earlier this year.

When it’s ready, this one-day course – also known as course No 207 – will be available in our dedicated virtual classroom sessions via the GoToTraining platform.

It follows hot on the heels of other new online modules, including The Electrotechnical Site Safety Awareness (TESSA) course and an e-learning session on asbestos awareness in partnership with Training First Safety Ltd. The 207 course is recommended for electrical practitioners involved in the in-service inspection and testing of electrical equipment, including mobile equipment. The aim is to provide an understanding of the obligations under the Electricity at Work Regulations, to

consider the guidance provided in the IET Code of Practice on in-service inspection and testing, and the knowledge to competently carry out inspection, testing and the need for reporting and record-keeping of electrical equipment.

The course will cover the following: ● Overview of the relevant IET Code of Practice ● Definitions and legal requirements ● Equipment scope and the need for maintenance ● Training and competence ● Equipment classifications ● User checks ● Formal visual inspection

● Test instruments ● Electrical tests ● Frequency of in-service inspection and testing ● Reporting and record-keeping ● New and third-party equipment.

Costing £150 plus VAT per person for SELECT Members, dates for the new online course will be available from mid-April onwards.

i

To register your interest for the course, please call SELECT Training on 0131 445 5577 or email training@select.org.uk

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35

TECHNICAL MEMBER QUESTIONS

Experts are here to help

During our recent online Branch Updates, Members submitted a range of questions for our Technical Advisers to tackle. Here is a small selection of the queries we received, along with the answers from our experts…

01

I’ve been asked by several clients and potential clients to carry out remedial works in respect to an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) carried out by another electrician. This always throws up questions and queries on the code attributed.

Firstly, we need to understand that during the inspection process the ‘Inspector’ should use their skills, knowledge and experience as the competent person to decide on the classification code to be used. At the end of the report THEY will be the one signing the report to accept full responsibility for the content and most importantly the accuracy of the report. Yet we still see the classification coding being harshly applied in some instances.

As Technical Advisers, we will always recommend that all inspectors refer to the Guide to EICRs issued by Electrical Safety First. The example of observations

found and potential codes has been discussed and agreed by several organisations, including SELECT, so we have an industry-wide template.

As soon as we are back out on the road, we will be carrying handy-sized copies of this, but in the meantime download a copy at bit.ly/ESF_Best_Practice

02

To SPD or not SPD, that is the question: Should installations always be provided with surge protection devices (SPDs)?

Members regularly ask if installations should be provided with SPDs. To answer the question, let’s start with Regulation 443.4, which is on page 101 of BS 7671:2018, and says that protection against transient overvoltages shall be provided where the consequence caused by overvoltage could: ● Result in serious injury or loss of life to humans, or ● Result in interruption of public services and/or damage to cultural heritage, or ● Result in interruption of commercial or industrial activity, or ● Affect a large number of co-located individuals.

For all other cases a risk assessment according to Regulation 443.5 shall be performed in order to determine if the protection against transient overvoltages is required. This can also be found on page 101 of BS 7671:2018. Here are a few notes about the risk assessment: ● CRL=fenv/(LpxNg) – there is nowhere on current certification to record this calculation to show you have completed the risk assessment ● Fenv – an environmental factor selected according to table 443.1, page 103 of BS 7671:2018 ● Lp – the risk assessment length in Km calculated using Lp=2 Lpal + Lpcl + 0.4 LPAH+0.2 LPCH(KM) on page 103 of BS 7671:2018 ● Ng – the lighting ground flash density (flashes per km2 per year) relevant to the power line and connected structure. See figure 44.2, page 102 of BS 7671:2018.

If the risk assessment is not performed, the electrical installation shall be provided with protection against transient overvoltages, except for single dwelling units where the total value of the installation and equipment does not justify such Continued on page 38 >>> CABLEtalk

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TECHNICAL MEMBER QUESTIONS >>> Continued from page 37

protection. If you’ve been on SELECT’s 218 training course, then these risk assessments will have been covered.

Indeed, some Members may remember our own in-house example, where Technical Adviser Darren Sweeney carried out the calculation.

Given that he has overhead lines in his back garden which are 20m from the house, you can probably guess the outcome too!

Within this regulation there is also an exception for single dwelling units, which mentions the total value of the installation and the equipment therein not justifying the protection. On this, we always advise caution to those attending if the job to be done is significant, and it may well be an ideal time to install the SPD, e.g. consumer unit upgrade or rewire. Discussion with the client and advising of what an SPD is, does and protects would certainly be advisable.

As the competent and knowledgeable electrician, having some knowledge in this will help. If you attended the SELECT Toolbox Talk in 2017 then you will have had the pleasure of our SPD presentation and may have gained some valuable understanding. If not, then I recommend the BEAMA Guide which can be accessed at bit.ly/BEAMA_SPDs NOTE: There are proposals to change the wording to these regulations in the draft for public comment (DPC) of Amendment 2:2022 to BS 7671:2018 which includes plans for a discussion between the designer and the installation owner to determine if SPD protection is required or not in dwellings. The outcome following review of DPC comments by JPEL/64 will no doubt be of interest to SELECT Members.

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03

To overcome thermal insulation issues, is it permissible to protect a ring final circuit using 2.5mm² cable and a 20A protective device?

Firstly, let’s look at reference methods and follow on to Appendix 4 Table 4D5 (page 409) of BS 7671: 2018.

Thermoplastic insulated and sheathed flat cable with protective conductor totally surrounded ref method 101 current carrying capacity is 17A. Then let’s look at Regulation 523.9 (page 143) which also references to Appendix 4 that we have just considered.

A cable should preferably be installed in a location where it is unlikely to be covered in thermal insulation. Where a cable is to be run in a space to which thermal insulation is likely to be applied, it shall, where practicable, be fixed in a position such that it will not be adversely affected by the amount of thermal insulation.

To meet the requirements of Regulation 523.9 requires “where a single cable likely to be totally surrounded by thermally insulating material over a length of 0.5m or more, the currentcarrying capacity shall be taken, in the absence of more precise information, as 0.5 times the current carrying capacity for that cable clipped direct to a surface and open (Reference Method C)”, also discusses the derating factor form table 52.2 regarding the cable surrounded by thermal insulation. Where applicable, the nature of the load (e.g. cyclitic) and reference to chapter 31, Maximum demand and diversity,, may be taken into account.

For economic and reliable design of an installation within thermal limits and admissible voltage thereof, diversity may be taken into account reference to On-Site Guidance Appendix A and in particular Appendix H standard circuit arrangements for household and similar installations.

The installed current carrying capacity (Iz) calculated must not be less than 20A for a ring circuit using 2.5mm2. Regulation 433.1.204 also states that the load current in any part of the circuit is unlikely to exceed for long periods the current carrying capacity (Iz) of the cable.

A sensible approach when it comes to ring final circuits reference can also be made to Appendix 15 (page 505) which has useful information and guidance.

For background information, ring final circuits were developed in Britain in 1927, in the 9th Edition of the wiring regulations. Use was intended for light loads only, e.g. vacuuming etc. Regulation 433.2.1 (page 89), Position of devices for protection against overload footnote, states: “A reduction in currentcarrying capacity may be due to a change in cross-sectional area, method of installation, type of cable or conductor, or in environmental conditions.”

So, in answer to the initial question, it WOULD be acceptable to protect a ring final circuit using 2.5mm2 cable protected by a 20A overcurrent protective device. However, the designer of the installation must take into account the load connected to the socket outlets, the method of cable installation and switch-on surges when using reduced current overcurrent protective devices.

A similar answer to the above is given below, and is what electrical industry bodies including SELECT agreed under the auspices of Electrical Safety First’s Wiring Regulations Advisory Group (WRAG):

OUR PANEL OF EXPERTS Darren Sweeney Technical Adviser

Keith Hagan Technical Adviser

Q1.9: To overcome thermal insulation issues, is it permissible to protect a ring final circuit using 2.5 mm² cable using a 20A protective device? Yes, if the effective current carrying capacity of the cable is at least 12.5A (20A × 20/32), so as to effectively have the same ‘deemed to comply status’ as Regulation 433.1.204 gives to 30A and 32A ring final circuits.

Regulation number(s): 433.1.204. See more at bit.ly/QAthermal

04

I’ve seen that the 5th Edition of the IET’s Code of Practice for in-service inspection and testing of electrical equipment is now available after being released in 2020. What changes have occurred in this new publication?

This was previously covered in detail in the December 2020/January 2021 issue of CABLEtalk. In a nutshell, the main changes are: ● The terms ‘portable’ and ‘moveable’ have been removed ● Table 7.1 has been removed, with more emphasis

Neil Sim Technical Adviser

placed on risk assessments for determining the frequency of inspection and testing of electrical equipment

Mark McLaughlin Technical Adviser

Stuart McKelvie Technical Adviser

● New terminology is used in product safety standards with new classifications of ES1, ES2 and ES3 introduced to replace SELV, ELV and LV. Members requiring any further information should contact the Technical team.

05

During electric vehicle (EV) charger installs, we’re required to fill out an Electrical Installation Certificate via SELECTcerts as per BS 7671.

However, we currently have to list and append all inspections separately, using a printed and scanned-in version of the model form Annex B on page 113 of the latest Code of Practice (Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation – 4th Edition). Is there any way of incorporating this into SELECTcerts?

Electric vehicle charging is classed as a ‘Special Location’ and thus on the inspection schedule supplied with the BS 7671:2018 Electrical Installation Continued on page 40 >>> CABLEtalk

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TECHNICAL MEMBER QUESTIONS >>> Continued from page 39

Certificate, section 11 will require to be ticked as this installation work falls under Section 722. A model checklist for this scope of works is given in the Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation, 4th Edition, which is available from SELECT. In Annex B, C and D, model checklists are given for domestic, commercial and on-street installations. SELECT will look into the feasibility and prospective demand for having these available in a SELECT format and possibly on SELECTcerts in the future.

06

With regard to Amendment 2 of BS 7671, can SELECT provide any information on expected changes or things we should be aware of?

Amendment 2 of BS 7671:2018 is due for publication on 28 March 2022. This follows Amendment 1 on section 722, electric vehicle charging, which was issued on 1 February 2020 and came into effect on 31 July 2020.

Following a draft for public consultation of Amendment 2, some 1,365 comments were received regarding its publication.

These are currently being reviewed by the four JPEL/64 sub-committees and are due for completion in April 2021.

The areas that received the most comments were: ● Regulation 421.1.7 AFDDs – it is proposed that AFDDs shall be mandated for socket outlet circuits in certain types of installations, namely higher risk residential buildings (HRRB), houses in multiple occupation (HMO), purposebuilt student accommodation and residential homes. For all other premises, the use of AFDDs is recommended for socket outlet circuits. ● Regulation 411.3.3 RCD risk assessment – it is proposed that the option to omit RCD additional protection for socket outlets in certain locations is retained where a suitably documented risk assessment has been undertaken. ● Regulation 542.1.2.202 foundation earthing – there are proposed changes relating to the requirements for foundation earthing. ● Regulation 411.3.1.2 protective equipotential bonding – there are proposed changes to help clarify whether metallic or non-metallic pipework requires bonding and whether when required a suitable resistance test can be used to determine if the part is an extraneous conductive part. ● Other proposed changes – there are proposed changes to the model forms in Appendix 6 regarding the schedule of inspection, the circuit chart and the schedule of test results. ● Section 443 and 534 regarding Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) ● The Addition of Part 8 Functional Requirements - including chapter 82 Prosumers Low Voltage Electrical Installations.

At this point, all comments are still under review and no changes have yet been approved for Amendment 2.

SELECT will update Members with any further changes.

TECHNICAL HELPLINE Got a technical question? Our team of experienced electrical professionals are on hand to advise on every issue.

0131 445 9218

You can also email technicalhelp@select.org.uk 40

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SAVE 25% ON Di-LOG LOCKOUT PRODUCTS

SELECT Member price: £126.75 + VAT

£111.75 + VAT

200k ohms, at 690V the current is limited to 3.5mA. The PU690 is also suitable to prove High and Low Impedance devices such as multimeters and clamps. Members can also save 25% on the award-winning range of Di-LOG lockout and tagout kits, which range in from £22.49 discounted price from + VAT £22.49 + VAT to £74.99 + VAT, and which offer essential safety protection.

The award-winning CombiVolt voltage indicators are all compliant to GS38 and BS 61243-3:2014.

Di-LOG To claim your discount, call lockout and Di-LOG on 0161 877 0322 and tagout kits quote ‘SELECT2020’ when paying.

Or you can email orders to sales@ dilog.co.uk quoting the same reference DLPK6790 690V and you’ll be sent an invoice to either pay Proving Unit Kit by card or bank transfer.

Di-LOG is offering SELECT Members an exclusive 25% DLPK6780 discount on the list price of any 690V Proving of their safe isolation and Unit Kit lockout range.

That means that for the topof-the-range DLPK6790 £67.50 CombiVolt™ 2 690V Proving + VAT Unit Kit you’ll pay £126.75 + VAT instead of the normal list price of £169 + VAT. Members can also save money on the DLPK6780 CombiVolt™ 1 690V Proving Unit Kit, normally PU690 Voltage of £89.99 + VAT. The PU690 £149 + VAT, but which Members Indicator enables you to prove your can buy for £111.75 + VAT. In Proving Unit two-pole voltage indicator by addition, the PU690 Voltage supplying a 690V AC voltage to the Indicator Proving Unit is available two input terminals. With the inbuilt load of for the special price of £67.50 + VAT instead

See the full Di-LOG safe isolation range at www.dilog.co.uk/ category/safe-isolationlockout-tagout/

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41

FOCUS TAX CREDITS

Rewarding If your business is creating new ways of working then you could benefit from research and development tax relief. Alex Price CTA, Director at ForrestBrown, explains how you can make the most of the scheme

T

he last year or so has been turbulent for electrical contractors, with the Brexit transition ongoing, COVID supply chain disruption and changing safety regulations. For SELECT Members, tax relief offers a valuable and established source of funding amid the uncertainty.

Funding recovery

Research and development (R&D) tax relief is a government incentive designed to reward UK-based companies for investing in innovation.

The latest HMRC research suggests that for every £1 awarded to an innovative company via R&D tax relief, up to £1.28 is stimulated in additional R&D expenditure for SMEs, and £2.70 for large companies.

This happens because businesses often spend the benefit they receive on funding the next big push in their R&D work, e.g. hiring new skilled staff, expanding premises, or investing in new machinery.

The incentive is split into two parts: The SME R&D tax credit and the large company Research and Development Expenditure Credit (RDEC). The SME credit is worth up to 33p for every £1 spent on qualifying innovation.

If your business is investing £250,000 in R&D each year, you could receive up to £83,375. For many of our clients, it can be much more.

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R&D in the world of electrical contracting

Innovation in the electrical contracting industry is diverse, taking place among business involved in the design, manufacture and testing of products.

In recent years, with the increasing demand for more energy efficient buildings, businesses have had to adapt their processes to become greener.

These pressures, along with changing safety regulations, have driven a widescale need for businesses to evolve and innovate.

R&D explained

Understanding what qualifies as R&D can be tricky. At ForrestBrown, we find that the following two questions help: ● Are you creating a new product, process or service? ● Are you changing or modifying an existing product, process or service?

If you’re not sure if your project is possible, or you don’t know how to achieve it in practice, you could be carrying out qualifying R&D. And if you’ve taken a risk because your outcome was uncertain, this could be R&D too.

Your R&D is likely to relate to either adapting to regulatory change, investments in new systems and improvements, or safety innovations.

Examples of qualifying innovation in the electrical contracting sector include: ● Designing or manufacturing electrical wiring and layouts for the installation of control systems

innovation ● Designing and installing electrical/ building control systems for regulated buildings, such as hospitals or research facilities ● Improving or developing alternative building control systems ● Integrating multiple systems into one logic circuit.

Claiming the right way

With the events of COVID, businesses have been approached from all angles with the offer of bad advice. As a result, we’ve seen an increasing amount of misinformation circulating on what qualifies as R&D. Companies need to be especially careful to seek advice from the right place given HMRC’s current focus on compliance. In response to a spate of fraudulence, HMRC has raised the bar when it comes to the quality they expect to see, hiring 100 extra full-time R&D tax compliance staff at the end of last year.

To be confident you’re partnering with a reputable adviser that can get the best results for your business, look out for a specialist that will provide: ● A multi-disciplinary team with a balance of tax credentials and handson industry expertise ● Policy-level insight in the latest thinking from HMRC ● A flexible approach that can be adapted to meet your unique business challenges.

The three steps of a successful R&D tax relief claim:

For electrical contractors across the UK, R&D tax relief offers established, tried and tested source of funding. But the incentive comes with nuances.

Every business is different, of course, but in our experience, there are three pillars to a good experience: Value: You receive every penny you

“Companies need to be especially careful to seek advice from the right place” deserve, no more, no less. Qualifying costs are easily overlooked, leading you to miss out.

Time: A claim should not be timeconsuming. Many advisers will push key tasks back to you, like capturing all qualifying costs and defining project boundaries.

Risk: Vitally, a high-quality adviser will insulate you from risk. The risk of HMRC enquiry cannot be totally eliminated, but it can be mitigated.

And in case it happens, not every adviser offers enquiry support as standard (always ask about this when negotiating a service contract).

It’s on these three points where a specialist consultancy can make a big difference. For SELECT Members, now is the perfect time to carefully assess R&D tax relief and start claiming. Done right, the incentive can help transform your business and propel growth.

ForrestBrown is the UK’s No1 specialist R&D tax credit consultancy. We’d love to hear from SELECT Members. If you have any questions or would like to find out more, get in touch on 0117 926 9022 or via email at amy.mcfall@forrestbrown.co.uk and mention you are a SELECT Member.

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43

FOCUS CONFLICT AVOIDANCE PROCESS

By Len Bunton

FRICS FCIArb, HON FRIAS

Contract Expert

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n some of my previous articles you’ll have seen several references to the Conflict Avoidance Process – or CAP for short – which I believe is a tremendous benefit to the construction sector.

You may also have seen that more and more people are getting involved and signing the Conflict Avoidance Pledge to show their support, so I thought I’d answer some of the most common questions I get asked about it.

Why should my business get involved?

Easy – CAP is an early intervention process that comes into play when problems on a construction project arise and you can’t find a solution.

For example, say there’s an issue and an employer is arguing with the contractor that something they have to do is ‘design development’ and the contractor is not entitled to a variation, which might involve you as a sub-contractor. You need to get that resolved and you can refer the matter to a Conflict Avoidance Panel.

So how does it work?

Firstly, the employer and the contractor need to have agreed to have the CAP in the main contract, and you would also want that provision in your sub-contract. If an issue arises, the parties can either have a CAP named in the contract or they can get a list of 44

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Take the problem solving pledge The Conflict Avoidance Process is being adopted by an increasing number of bodies, but what is it exactly? And how could it benefit your business and save you time, hassle and money? Len has all the answers… experienced professionals from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This could be an architect, quantity surveyor or services engineer. Both sides identify the issue and call in the Conflict Avoidance Panel for a discussion, and the panel in due course issues a non-binding recommendation on resolving the issue.

Anecdotally, most recommendations have been accepted, the parties get agreement, the matter is resolved and you can move on. This stops all the bickering you get on projects these days.

So, what do you need to do?

First you need to go to the RICS website at www.rics.org/uk and sign up to the Conflict Avoidance Pledge – it’s free and only takes a few minutes. RICS will then

send you some further information on the process. If you’re about to sign a contract, then suggest to the other party that you’d like to have this process in

WATCH NOW Len has made an exclusive video for SELECT Members that explains the many benefits of CAP. Watch it now at bit.ly/STV-CAP

6 leading quantity surveyor and project management firms have signed the Pledge

45 organisations and individuals in Scotland have signed the Pledge

NHS Scotland is looking at incorporating the Pledge in its £650 million five-year frameworks

play. Or if you have a problem on a current contract, then do the same.

How much will this cost me?

5 Scottish Futures Trust Hubs have signed the Pledge

The CICV Forum and Scottish Construction Leadership Forum both support CAP

“If an issue arises then the parties can either have a CAP named in the contract, or they can get a list of experienced professionals”

The good news is that is costs nothing to get a Conflict Avoidance Panel appointed, and it only costs money if the panel does any work, probably on an hourly or a daily basis. Most issues get resolved quickly in a day or so, but you can get an idea of costs before you get the panel involved. Ideally the costs are shared between the parties.

I’m glad to report that really good progress is being made in Scotland on CAP. So far, 45 organisations and individuals have signed the Conflict Avoidance Pledge, including SELECT and fellow trade bodies like the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbers’ Federation (SNIPEF).

A cross-industry working group has also been set up to drive the process forward.

The great thing for me is that this marks a real cultural change in the industry, resulting in greater collaboration and fewer disputes.

So please sign the Pledge today!

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If you need further guidance on CAP, then contact me through SELECT by emailing iain.mason@select.org.uk

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FOCUS ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Let’s take a switched-on approach

Is your company ready to go electric? If you’re thinking about making the switch to EVs for your employees, here are five things to consider Benefit in kind

By Stuart Clark Managing Director, Russell & Russell Chartered Accountants

In the tax world, benefit in kind (BiK) is a benefit, such as a company car, with a monetary value. As such, it is subject to tax.

The BiK rules are notoriously complex. In respect of company cars, the BiK is based on a calculation which brings together the car’s list price (not its value or the price paid for it), its C02 emissions and the user’s tax circumstances.

It’s best not to try working this out on your own: your professional adviser is best placed to guide you to an optimal outcome.

Drivers can be certain, however, that the BiK tax charge for a traditional, fossil fuel-based vehicle significantly outstrips

“Tax on company cars is a tricky subject, but one that experienced accountants deal with every day” 46

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the charge for an electric car or van.

Indeed, for the 2020/21 tax year, the fully electric car tax rate was set at zero.

Even in coming years, the rates will be remarkably light – 1% in 2021/22 and 2% the following year – but it’s reasonable to assume that as more EVs join the company car fleet, rates will rise again.

The takeaway here is to get professional advice. Tax on company cars is a tricky subject, but one that experienced accountants deal with every day.

Salary sacrifice

It’s been reported that as many as seven out of 10 drivers are aware of the Government’s Cycle to Work scheme which allows staff members to purchase a new bicycle from their salary before income tax and National Insurance have been deducted.

However, less than 10% are aware of a similar programme for cars that heavily favours EVs. Now known as Optimal Remuneration Arrangements, the salary sacrifice for EVs has been around since 2016, ensuring the ultralow emission vehicles (ULEVs) are as affordable as possible.

The tax benefits have now mostly been removed for petrol and dieselpowered cars but remain in place for ULEVs.

Enhanced Capital Allowances

Provided the car is brand new and purchased by the company, it will qualify for Enhanced Capital Allowances. This is a first-year allowance that lets your company deduct the full cost from profits before tax.

If you are not purchasing the car and are registered for VAT, then you can reclaim 50% of the VAT on lease payments.

You can claim 100% if the vehicle is for business use only.

If you install a charging point at work, this currently qualifies for the first-year allowance There is also no BiK for installing one at an employee’s home – although the installation is often covered by an energy efficient grant.

the nearest fast charging point. He has committed the government to a new £500 million funding pot to be spent during the next five years to expand the UK’s rapid charging network.

The fund is primarily designed to cover the cost of businesses installing charging points on their premises.

The Chancellor also announced a £403 million three-year extension to the plug-in car grant but cut the subsidy payment to £2,500 per car, as well as scrapping the pay-out for cars worth more than £50,000.

Government assistance

The Scottish Government offers interestfree loans to help with the purchase of new EVs. These cover up to £28,000 of the cost of purchasing a pure electric or

plug-in hybrid. Applications for the loan should be made through the Energy Saving Trust. This loan is in addition to the UK Government’s Plug-In Vehicle Grant mentioned above, which now provides a maximum £2,500 discount at the point of purchase.

Based in Glasgow, Russell & Russell serves customers in an array of industries, including engineering and construction, with a focus on ownermanaged businesses with annual revenues of up to £30m. For further information, please call 0141 332 6331 or visit www.russellrussell.co.uk

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Improved infrastructure

Chancellor Rishi Sunak confirmed plans for investment to ensure that EV drivers will never be more than 30 miles from

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE Our guide to the latest industry solutions 1 A MODERN HEATING SOLUTION Glenrothes-based heating manufacturer Flexel International Ltd has upgraded its ECOSUN C Ceiling Cassette far infrared heater units. The new ECOSUN C+ IP55 units are direct replacements for its original ECOSUN C+ IP20 units as an upgrade for 2020.

The UK-manufactured radiant ceiling cassette panels are designed to

replace standard 600mm x 600mm UK ceiling tiles in offices, corridors, toilets, canteens, classrooms and any other location with low ceiling grid system and tiles in place.

The two sizes – 595mm x 595mm and 595mm x 1195mm – are ideal for complete or supplemental heating in commercial, retail, residential and public buildings.

2 TECHNOLOGY PUTS YOU IN CONTROL Flexel International Ltd has added to its range of thermostats with the new FlexelTouch WiFi. This unit is touchscreen, programmable and designed to control different types of heating systems with air and ground temperature options.

The Flexel Touch WiFi is an appcontrolled smart heating controller that works with your smartphone to provide energy efficient heating by allowing you to take control of

your electric floor heating system from anywhere.

You can remotely adjust temperatures and programs to ensure comfort conditions when you need them and run at lower temperatures when you don’t. This reduces energy wastage and maximises energy efficiency.

The thermostat will allow you to optimise your energy consumption and increase your comfort levels.

For further product information go to flexel.co.uk or call 01592 760 928 for more details.

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3 WORKWEAR IS STYLISH AND SAFE Snickers Workwear takes personal wellbeing at work very seriously. That’s why this range of Hi-Vis protective wear is streets ahead of anything else.

With updated styles and designs added to the extensive range of jackets, trousers, shorts, tool vests, shirts and fleeces for men and women, there’s a host of garments in the range to satisfy the requirements of Classes 1, 2 and 3 protection levels.

These outstanding products combine Snickers’ hallmarks of functionality and comfort with the requirements of the EN20471 standard for high visibility warning clothes.

With advanced designs and high-tech fabrics that are windproof and

water-repellent, all the garments have durable, colour-fast protection that will last for wash after wash, retaining shape and comfort throughout the life of the garments.

4 SHORTS MAKE HARD GRAFT SIMPLE Combining four-way stretch fabric that delivers working comfort all day with street-smart, slim-fit designs, Snickers Work Shorts are great for grafting in the warmer months.

These lightweight garments feature a body-mapping design and are made from a self-ventilating stretch fabric with CORDURA® reinforcements for durability and all-round mobility when you need it.

The Men’s FLEXIWork lightweight work shorts come

with flexible gusset seams and also have easy-to-access holster pockets with zip compartments, an expandable stretch cargo pocket and a ruler pocket. The AllroundWork Women’s multi-purpose, slim-fit shorts have four-way stretch panels in the right places for consistent comfort, practical pockets for optimal functionality and great freedom of movement.

They’re a must for professional tradesmen and women who rely on their gear in demanding environments.

To find out more, call 01484 854788, visit www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

5 IT PAYS TO MAKE THE SWITCH Marshall-Tufflex has introduced four new Universal Switch and Socket Boxes to its product range.

Simplifying the specification process for installers, the new designs feature knock outs for both 20mm round conduit and mini trunking (25 x 16mm).

The new Universal Switch and Socket Boxes are suitable for a variety of applications, designed with a choice of either square or rounded corners. The design affords users with a number of options, depending on where the

box is installed and the cable feed entry point.

By simplifying the range, installers will benefit from boxes that can be used for a variety of different requirements. Using 20% recycled material, these boxes have also been manufactured with the environment in mind.

To find out more, visit www. marshall-tufflex.com or contact Jim Gallacher, Area Sales Manager for Scotland on 07713 877234 or jimg@marshall-tufflex.com

6 SITE LIGHT IS SUCH A BRIGHT IDEA Makita has launched a new self-balancing area site light – the latest addition to its range of LED site lighting solutions.

The DML810 18V Self Righting Site Light LXT delivers up to 5,500 lumens (lm) and 360 degree illumination with the option for corded or cordless operation.

The self-balancing design of the Makita DML810 means that it remains upright even when knocked or bumped, making it ideal for busy sites. The 202 super luminous daylight white

LEDs provide high quality illumination without the heat of halogens or incandescent lights.

This durable light unit is both dust and water resistant, with an IP54 rating when using battery power. It is also possible to connect up to eight units together and convenient carrying handles and a balanced side position allow for easy transportation and storage.

To find out more, visit www.makitauk.com

CONTACT OUR TEAM TO SHOWCASE YOUR GREAT NEW PRODUCTS HERE

David Hughes: 07767 407 402 davidh@connectcommunications.co.uk

VAT reverse charge for construction services

By Ainsley MacLaren, Associate, MacRoberts LLP The domestic VAT reverse charge (DVRC) for construction services finally came into effect on 1 March 2021 and moved the obligation to account for VAT on certain construction services to the recipient of the services.

Broadly, in order for the DVRC to apply there must be a supply of construction services that falls within the CIS by one VAT registered business to another, where the recipient receives the supply in the course of its own construction business.

The DVRC does not apply where the recipient is the end user of the services, or if the recipient is not registered for the CIS. In general, the DVRC applies to supplies between VAT registered subcontractors and contractors, but not between contractors and clients. The regime may apply to certain supplies made to property developers.

HMRC has published a flowchart that can be used to determine whether the DVRC applies to a particular arrangement.

Where the DVRC applies, the supplier does not charge VAT but instead issues a VAT invoice stating that the supply is subject to the DVRC. The recipient accounts for the

VAT due on the supply on its own VAT return and treats the reverse charge VAT as input in the normal way.

Some suppliers may continue to charge VAT in circumstances where the DVRC applies. VAT paid in these circumstances is not input VAT and the recipient will need to attempt to recover the sums from the supplier. Any person in receipt of construction services should consider whether or not VAT should be being charged on services provided to it and be ready to challenge a supplier who is not operating the DVRC correctly.

Construction businesses within the DVRC regime should consider whether their accounting processes are adequate to deal with the regime, and also whether the contractual provisions that are in place are adequate to obtain the information required to make a correct determination of the VAT status of the supply made or received, and enable appropriate recovery from the other party in the event that an error has been made.

Further information on DVRC can be found on HMRC’s website. ● For more advice, contact Ainsley MacLaren on 0131 248 2235 or email ainsley. maclaren@macroberts.com

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DIARY SELECT TEAM

GETTING TO KNOW YOU Donnie Calder

“The most enjoyable part for me is seeing the end product, especially on the trickier jobs”

Hello Donnie. How long have you been involved with SELECT?

doing the accounts, admin, test certificates and a lot of other stuff in the background, which gives me more free time to work on the day-to-day running of the company.

sure we are up to date with the latest regulations and having so much training on hand that we can trust in.

Do you get the chance to meet other SELECT Members?

The most enjoyable part for me is seeing the end product, especially on the trickier jobs.

Chair, Inverness & North of Scotland Branch

I have been involved with SELECT for approximately 15 years, firstly with the company I served my time with and, since leaving there, around seven years with Calder Electrical.

Tell us a bit about your business, where you’re based and how long you’ve been an electrician.

We are a small business based in Invergordon. We have been trading for seven years now and carry out all aspects of work. Recently we have been doing a lot of work at Raigmore Hospital on behalf of Keir Construction and direct to the NHS. This has kept us very busy throughout the lockdown along with other essential work for the Highland Council and at Invergordon Service Base. We are really lucky to have a great squad of guys who are always willing to go the extra mile to keep on top of our workload, which makes life a lot easier.

What does your job entail?

Tell us more about what you do.

I carry out pricing, meet clients, organise materials and plan the work for the team.

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

Unfortunately, work for me is more office-based now, so I usually spend my day visiting sites and spend my nights pricing and invoicing. My sister, Claire, works full time with us now 50

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I usually meet SELECT Members in the wholesalers and at SELECT meetings, although this hasn’t been as common recently because of the COVID-19 restrictions. I keep in touch with a few Members by phone too.

What do you think are the main benefits of SELECT membership?

For us, the main benefits are making

What do you find most enjoyable about your job?

What impact has COVID-19, lockdown and working remotely had on your business?

We have been very fortunate through the lockdown and have been busier than ever. We had to adapt quite quickly to the changes but have been extremely busy for the past year.

 QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS: Cheese or chocolate? Chocolate Dog or cat person? Dog First car owned? Vauxhall Corsa Favourite film? I don’t spend much time watching TV or films, but a comedy would be my choice Favourite TV show?

Formula 1 is probably my most watched show Favourite holiday spot? Dubai Dream date? My mother in law is up there!

Favourite colour? Blue One thing people might not know about you? I live in Invergordon, so nothing is a secret!

WIN

£50 OF

COMPETITION

RETRO SWEETS WORDSEARCH R C H Z M F F G L B K A G L M Q Y P Q Y T F T F

B W Z C A C I E G I K L O N F L U M P S V I U L

M X Y A B D Z F H J S M B O I Q R S T U V Z W Y

O C A N D Y W A T C H E S P Z U V W T K S Z X I

E H B D Q M I R F F E D T C Z D S L I X T Y Y N

F O C Y W P Z E V T R V O D E G C O J C G B Z G

L C F S E M X A G R B N P A R M A V I O L E T S

B N K T R B C S J E E M P A S V W E G L V L A A

Y I L I T Y V K L A T P E S T D A H J A H T B U

J B R C U T B U P S F I R D R T S E L B I S C C

T B S K Y R M L U D O K N F E Y D A J O R A D E

L L L S I S Y L B B U B M G M N G R K T V S U R

M E R A L M N S O P N Q R S D T V T W T D U T S

S S Y K C D V V F V T O I N O V R S X L F G S D

P V J J L K N B V D A M L A U N E D S E V A R G

M U J I P C J M F D I P D A B K M V F S J R Q X

I T A H B H T A M B N W E R L G U N M H K M P D

R S Z G S M D E C F S F J A E N F D Q G L I O J

H R Z F V W F T N K G S G D D R U M S T I C K T

S Q I E N H D N B M S M B F I G J K V F M E N S

M P E D R A I N B O W D R O P S Y Z A E V B M M

A O S C G M G U J M N Q R A T U V W X D D C L P

VOUCHERS

February/ March 2021 answers:

O N A B H N M I K L O P S R E F R E S H E R S L

F R U I T S A L A D A R B D U L N H T C V J K P

A V W B C M N S T U V Y Z B C H I C J U V Y

B W X A D L O R T T W X S P A R R O W T W X

G O L D F I N C H S X W W A D G J A K S X W

C O Y Z E K P Q R R Y V A Z E F K L L R Y V

D D Z Y F J Q P U F F I N Y F E L T M Q Z U

E P A X G I B P S Q Z U A X G D M I N P A B

K E S T R E L O H P A T B W H C N T O O B A

F C B W H H U N U O B S P V I B O I P N C R

G K C D I G E M V N C R I U C A P H Q M D N

H E D U J S T A R L I N G T H Z G G R L E O

W R E N K F I L W M D Q E S A Y R F S K F W

I U F N L E T K X L E P O R F S E A G U L L

J T G O M D R J R O B I N Q F X E E E J G T

K B H C S C S I Y K L O C P I W N D E I H S

D U C K N P T H Z F A L C O N V F C S H I R

L L I V O B R G A J C N D N C U I B E G B Q

M L J U P A U E B I K M E M H T N A T F U P

N F K T Q Z V F Y H B L F L J S C Z U E Z O

E I P G A M W E C G I K G K K R H Y V D Z N

O N L S R Y X D D F R J C J L Q Q X W J A Y

P C M R S X Y G O L D C R E S T R W X C R M

Q H N Q T W Z C V E F I O I M P S V Y B D L

R S O P U V A B E D G H W H N O T U Z A J K

Here’s your chance to win £50 of Amazon vouchers with our prize wordsearch about retro sweets compiled

by SELECT Training Administrator Laurie Burns. Find the words, take a pic of your finished grid and email it to memberservices@select.org.uk by 7 May. The winner will be drawn at random. T&Cs are online. Congratulations to February/March winner Rosemary Henderson from RH Electrical in Inverurie, Aberdeenshire.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Black Jacks Bubbly Candy Sticks Candy Watches Choc Nibbles Cola Bottles Dip Dab Double Dip Drumstick Fiz Wiz Fizzers Fizzy Belts Flumps

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Flying Saucers Foam Shrimps Fruit Salad Gobstopper Jazzies Love Hearts Parma Violets Rainbow Drops Refreshers Sherbet Fountains Skulls Sugar Mice Wham

Keep up to date with Due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, all SELECT meetings and events are subject to change. We will update Members with new information as soon as possible. In the meantime, follow our website www.select.org.uk Twitter @Updates_SELECT @Training_SELECT @Regulate_SELECT

Facebook SELECT.TheECAofS

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

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