Professional Electrician & Installer October 2022

67 What you need to know if your next install requires cables to BS 8436:

Editor RICHARD BOWLER

email: pe@hamerville.co.uk

Digital Manager

REBECCA MCGEOCH

email: rmcgeoch@hamerville.co.uk

Digital Assistant ADAM ROBERTS

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ANTHONY SCOTT email: ascott@hamerville.co.uk

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IAN TURNER email: ianturner@hamerville.co.uk

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CREATIVE UNBLOCK

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KERRI SMITH

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CAROL PADGETT

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TERRY SMITH

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Editor’s Viewpoint

‘Middle ground’ will suffer as Truss issues arise

As we go to press on this month’s edition of PE, news has broken of Liz Truss’ plans to deal with the crazy energy bills that both businesses and households face this winter, and beyond.

The new Prime Minister, under significant pressure to deliver a ‘statement’ response to the threat of an 80% rise in domestic bills that was earmarked to begin from October, has announced that the price cap on annual household energy has been cut so it will not rise above £2,500. The removal of ‘green levies’ from bills, a guarantee that will last for two years (a sure sign of the minimum length of time the government believes this fiasco will continue for perhaps?) is effectively funding the exercise.

Additionally, the PM has extended this relief to businesses, guaranteed for the next six months, with those industries most in need considered for further support from that point onwards.

To her credit, Liz Truss has very much been thrown in at the deep end on this one and, rightly, had to commit to a strategy that would support the needs, in the short term at least, of households and businesses, very much in the same way that her predecessor was forced to react to the pandemic by creating ‘furlough’ schemes for businesses.

What we knew with that, as we know with this, is that someone (or many people, in fact) will pay the bill further down the line.

Although the public won’t see an additional rise in bills or taxes immediately, the government has essentially had to borrow the money to pay for it all, which increases our overall national debt. No doubt, this will be clawed back through income tax increases that are most likely to bite the ‘middle ground’ hardest in the coming years.

Of course, the devil is often in the detail with such governmental announcements and policies, and it’s only when you delve a little deeper that it becomes clear that this is once again likely to be a case of the rich getting richer and the poor/middle ground getting poorer.

Firstly, no rescue plans have been announced for those poor folk who recently rushed to fix their energy tariff, on the

advice of every government representative and independent expert who could garner some airtime. They now face paying a higher fixed tariff then may be necessary in light of the announced cuts. That needs to be rectified immediately.

Secondly, the promised ‘cuts’ haven’t come directly from the energy suppliers themselves, but from government who will then pass the bill (with interest) back to the likes of you and I in the future.

For me, the fact that the energy companies have not been forced to lower their tarrifs in the face of the quite staggering price hikes that loom over the UK is an absolute disgrace.

I believe that there are some events in life/society where profit and greed has to be set aside for the greater good, just for once. This is absolutely one of those occasions.

If the Prime Minister had really wanted to prove that she’s on the side of the ‘normal’ voter, she would have summoned the heads of each energy supplier to her new quarters in Downing Street, and informed them that a sensible solution would be required which wouldn’t hit ‘normal’ hardworking families and professionals in the pocket, as a result. No one would be allowed to leave until a sensible, workable plan had been agreed,

Here’s an idea that could have saved the public from being pilfered: how about the energy suppliers inform their shareholders and directors that dividends are delayed for a year, with the proceeds deducted from bills/tariffs as a result? After all, if normal individuals and businesses face ruin as a result of the sheer greed that is being enforced upon them, those shareholder dividends and payouts won’t be quite so juicy in the future.

Whether the PM’s own plan provides the shot in the arm this country requires to tackle the significant challenges it faces, only time will tell. What we can be certain of, however, is that the bill will continue to rise along the way!

Have a good month and enjoy the issue. Bowler

ECA takes key role on UK Electricity Products Supply Chain Council

ECA has taken on a key role on the newly established UK Electricity Products Supply Chain Council, launched by BEAMA.

The new body aims to facilitate cross-industry, government collaboration, and investment in UK energy supply chains.

ECA Technical Director, Mike Smith, said: “Increased collaboration between the electrical product supply chain and the businesses that design, install and maintain products and systems will deliver effective and sustainable solutions for the UK energy sector and the wider marketplace.

“It is now vital that we increase the number of skilled installation contractors to ensure the successful deployment of electrical energy solutions at scale. This will provide major benefits to clients in the energy sector and beyond, and help government and industry to meet the UK’s net zero carbon targets.”

Led by BEAMA, with membership from

across the energy and contracting sector and support from UK government, the UK Electricity Products Supply Chain Council (UKEPSCC) is a first-of-its-kind platform to support supply chains for electrical transmission and distribution networks,

and the end-use energy products market.

The council is an example of industry collaboration at its best. It represents an early concerted effort to work closely with the new government and bring the UK energy and contracting sectors together to alleviate pressures on the market.

BEAMA CEO, Dr Howard Porter, said: “This is an unprecedented era of change and with mounting pressures on the supply chain we need this level of collaboration across industry and with government. We will lead this council to ensure the resilience of the electricity equipment supply chain.

“The current energy crisis and geopolitical pressure placed on the supply chain should not hold back progress to meet our Net Zero targets, but we should see this as an opportunity to invest in low carbon tech industries. This includes the manufacturing sectors BEAMA represents.”

JTL teams with Enerveo to launch apprenticeship academy

JTL has recently partnered with Enerveo to launch its first apprenticeship academy.

The academy will see 20 JTL trainees undertake a six-week traineeship before beginning their apprenticeship with Enerveo, one of the UK’s leading electrical contracting businesses that offers a uniquely broad scope of services, specialising in new energy solutions to support the UK path to net zero carbon.

The goal of the traineeship is to equip the learners with key skills that will form the foundation of their apprenticeship journeys as well as educating them about the apprentice role.

The traineeship will cover sector-specific training alongside developing each learner’s english, maths and digital skills. Three weeks of the

programme will also focus on practical work experience, during which Enerveo will assign each trainee with a colleague to shadow within a relevant department. These departments span across Enerveo’s multitude of services such as mechanical, electrical, high voltage, test and inspection services, EV charging and street lighting.

Judi Wheeler, National Delivery Director at JTL, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our learners to gain valuable industry experience that will be relevant to their future apprenticeships. We’ve championed our traineeships as a valuable tool for achieving a tangible experience to ground an apprenticeship, and we look forward to our trainees receiving that with our new partners.”

Carolyn Reed, Enerveo HR Director,

said: “An apprenticeship is a fantastic way for learners to really understand the different areas of our business and gain valuable experience on-site. We look forward to following the journeys of our 20 trainees over the next six weeks as they build their paths to their future careers.”

Professional Electrician, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24

With lack of clarity and understanding around the vital processes to successfully adopting solar photovoltaic (PV), Bureau Veritas is urging companies to invest time in fuelling their knowledge in order to embrace the transition.

With solar panels set to become a mandatory requirement on all new buildings under EU plans, businesses must now increase prominence on switching to a clean and green energy source to power their operations.

Commercial solar panels can make an immense difference by generating free, green electricity during daytime hours that can be used on-site, lowering business demand for energy from the grid and potentially saving thousands of pounds on energy bills.

Soaring energy prices and volatile markets have pushed many businesses to put their roof space to good use by turning to solar PV systems, however, many are still apprehensive when it comes

to making the switch.

Helping to simplify the switch and navigate the process, Alisdair MacDonald, Principal Consultant at Bureau Veritas, says: “Businesses need to be responsible for their influence on the environment and take initiative in sustainability and renewable energy sources. Investing in solar will put them ahead of growing legislation as the government focuses on net zero.

“Not only could it bring substantial

financial benefits, switching to commercial solar panels can significantly reduce the impact energy consumption has on the production of greenhouse gases, therefore reducing the company’s carbon footprint.”

He continues: “There is considerable apprehension surrounding the entire solar PV installation process and some hesitancy understanding the multitude of benefits this will bring. The life of a well-maintained solar power system is about 25–30 years. The average time to pay off the investment is 6 to 9 years; after which business owners could technically benefit from free electricity.

“The time for businesses to make the investment is now, in order to reap the long-term gains both financially and environmentally.”

The fuelGenie Petrol Station Finder App lists prices for every Tesco, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s fuel station across the UK, based on the most recent purchases by fuelGenie customers at each location.

Electricians can use this information to plan journeys and ensure the most cost-effective sites are used when vehicles are running low. Alternatively a driver can simply enter his or her

location and find the best value fuel station nearby. The App has been designed for use on both Apple and Android smartphones and PCs.

fuelGenie Managing Director, Robert Pieczka, explained: “In businesses operating multiple vehicles, fuel can be one of the largest areas of expenditure. Companies are naturally seeking ways to minimise that cost and our App can play a major role in that.

“Prices can vary significantly between petrol stations, whether that’s between different operators in the same town or even at sites in the same area operated by the same company.

“Knowing where fuel is the best value allows informed decisions to be made about where and when to stop and fuel up. Multiplied across large fleets, these savings could equate to hundreds of thousands of pounds each year.”

fuelGenie is a completely free fuel card for UK businesses seeking to cut fuel costs and driver spend via a low-cost supermarket petrol station network.

Professional Electrician, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24

Help is at hand for electricians facing turbulent fuel costs thanks to a unique App from leading fuel card provider fuelGenie, which can be used to find the best value fuel on journeys.

For the latest electrical news visit www.professional-electrician.com

@proelectrician professionalelectrician pe@hamerville.co.uk

Professional Electrician, Regal Regal Way, Watford, WD24

ESF Product Safety Conference returns next month

Electrical professionals are being urged to make a date in the diary to attend Electrical Safety First’s annual Electrical Product Safety Conference Safe and Sustainable – this November.

Chaired by Katie Prescott, Technology Business Editor at The Times, and with a keynote speech by the Minister for Small Business, Consumers, and Labour Markets, it will explore the safety and sustainability agenda and how our move to net zero might impact on consumer behaviour and safety. Sessions will range from discussing current and forthcoming legislation on the safety of smart products, to how right to repair can be effectively and safely operated.

The event, which has a history of

bringing key emerging issues to the fore, attracts a wide range of delegates and leading experts from government, industry, enforcement bodies, and beyond.

Martyn Allen, Technical Director at Electrical Safety First, said: “During a period of unprecedented technological change –and heightened awareness of the need for sustainability consumer protection and

trust in the safety and lifecycle of products and services are critical. As usual, our aim is to ensure industry and key stakeholders have the information they need to deal with current and future change while ensuring consumer safety.”

Electrical Safety First’s Electrical Product Safety Conference will be held from 9.00am –5.00pm, on Wednesday 23 November at Church House, Westminster, London. A drinks reception will be held after the event.

C-TEC launches new series of CPD events

Life-safety systems manufacturer, C-TEC, is rolling out another series of free CPD training events!

Worth four hours of Continuing Professional Development time, they will be held at seven locations across the UK until November and feature the following highly informative seminars:

● Integrated Fire Alarm Solutions for High Rise Residential Buildings

● A Guide to BS 8629-2019 Evacuation Alert Systems

● Reducing false alarms – how the type, location and settings of different fire detectors can significantly reduce the incidence of unwanted alarms

● Hearing Assistance Solutions: The Route to Equality Act Compliance

Each seminar will run from 10am - 3pm with registration starting at 9.30am.

Boost for industry regulation campaign

The growing campaign for regulation of the electrical industry has received a timely boost after more than 180 electricians pledged their support for the crusade being spearheaded by SELECT.

An unprecedented number of professionals rushed to add their names to the association’s Wall of Support at a series of Toolbox Talks held across Scotland over the summer.

As well as attracting record numbers of delegates, the roadshows also saw 184 electricians from a wide range of SELECT member firms giving their backing to the organisation’s long-running campaign for protection of title for the profession of electrician.

In a further sign of its accelerating momentum, the campaign has also been endorsed by Certsure LLP, which offers certification services through the NICEIC brand, with Managing Director, Richard Orton adding his name to the Wall.

The drive for protection of title is currently under consideration in the Scottish Parliament, with SELECT now planning meetings with other MPs and MSPs in the coming months to add further names to the Wall of Support.

FIND

Recent changes to The Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) which sets out the minimum requirements for a business to be recognised as technically competent by a Certification or Registration Body, includes a requirement for businesses to maintain appropriate records of qualifications, training (including Continuing Professional Development) and experience.

To support this requirement, EVERY ELEX seminar is now CPD accredited, ensuring those individuals who make the time and effort to attend will receive a direct certificate of completion, which can

form a key part of your ongoing Continuing Professional Development record.

With industry regulation and legislation changing constantly, the extensive ELEX seminar programme will cover an array of topics, including the latest Amendment 2 to the 18th Edition and the changes this covers, along with best practice and technical advice for professionals to get stuck into. Presentations will be delivered by experts in their field and the only cost to delegates is their time.

All seminars will take place in the IET Seminar Theatre located centrally in the exhibition hall and there’s no need for delegates to pre-book, just pre-register to attend the show.

Whether you need some advice on the direction the sector is heading, want to chat with manufacturers about their latest solutions, view live demonstrations of the latest products or bag yourself a great

show deal on tools and equipment from leading brands, your regional ELEX tradeshow has it all.

ELEX Exeter takes place on 20th/21st October at the Westpoint Arena, with Sandown Park (3rd/4th November) still to come before the end of 2022. With free entry and parking, the only cost is your time.

SEE LIFE IN TECHNICOLOUR WITH ESP CCTV RANGE

ESP continually invests in its CCTV range to enhance the products, harness the latest technologies and broaden the offer to satisfy many project sizes and requirements. The latest development of the category sees the launch of a brand new 24/7 Colour IP CCTV range, which will take its CCTV offer to another level.

When it comes to CCTV security, colour-related information can play a vital role in identifying the detail of activities, particularly in the hours of darkness. Conventional cameras with infrared lighting will only provide black and white images for night-time monitoring. This can result in people or vehicles, for example, appearing blurred and blending into the background, making it difficult to discern crucial elements. ESP’s new 24/7 colour CCTV range will provide sharp detail, in colour, day or night.

Find out why ESP’s new CCTV range can help your customers to experience glorious technicolour!

The new 24/7 Colour IP POE CCTV range is designed to offer superior, reliable and straightforward installation solutions for a range of applications from domestic through to larger and more complex commercial projects. The range will sit alongside ESP’s established CCTV offer which comprises the HDView IP PoE 5MP range, designed for larger and more complex commercial projects, and the Rekor IP PoE 2MP range, which is tailored for the domestic market.

There are 18 individual products that make up the new 24/7 Colour CCTV range. This includes 12 cameras offering 2MP, 5MP and 8MP resolutions and each one is available in a choice of dome or bullet camera designs and in a white or grey finish. There are six different NVRs available including a 4 channel NVR in the Rekor IP collection.

The HDView IP PoE range consists of 8MP NVRs with a broad range of channel options available –4, 8, 12, 16, 32 and 64-channels. There is also a number of 2 and 4 camera kits available in the Rekor IP

24/7 range, with a choice of dome or bullet camera design options and a white or grey finish.

Lights, Camera, Action!

The main features in the new range are in the cameras themselves due to the ‘24/7’ colour function. The cameras utilise low light image sensors, which are able to use background light to produce a colour image in reduced light environments. This means that individuals and vehicles, for example, can be identified more clearly at night or where light settings are low.

If the background light is insufficient for the low light image sensors to produce a colour image, the white LEDs on the cameras have the facility to activate by virtual line crossing and permitter intrusion set by the user.

All cameras have an IP67 rating for external use. They are equipped with infrared LEDs which are the default mode when the white LEDs are not in activation mode. This ensures that the white LEDs are not on constantly, which will be unwanted by the majority of users. The cameras also include a discreet microphone and speaker for 2-way audio

OTHER GREAT FEATURES & BENEFITS

250 PoE function

PoE

Pre-installed

ESP

Intelligent

This offers a

function which is controlled via the App –ESP IP PRO.

By offering a selection of 2MP, 5MP and 8MP cameras each in a choice of dome and bullet designs and in a white or grey colour finish, ESP believes this comprehensive offer will have appeal across a broad range of installation sizes and requirements.

Action replay

The main feature of the NVRs in the new 24/7 Colour CCTV systems is that they offer 8MP recording. In other words, they offer support for high resolution cameras in record, playback and live view modes. With a choice of 4-64 Channel NVRs available, ESP is providing a breadth of NVR capability to support a range of applications –from small to large.

There are eight Rekor IP 24/7 kits providing all the 24/7 Colour features in a convenient kit form. There is a 4-channel 2 camera kit version available as well as a 4 camera option. Both are offered in a choice of dome or bullet camera design and in a white or grey finish. The kits come with cable supplied and a pre-installed surveillance Hard Drive.

All cameras and NVRs in ESP’s extensive 24/7 CCTV range are 100% NDAA Compliant.

GET MORE DETAILS AND DOWNLOAD THE ESP 24/7 COLOUR CCTV RANGE BROCHURE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAK007

MY ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY FRUSTRATION…

is very frustrating, as the laws of physics

iour electrical industry. It seems to me that one of the biggest problems engineers face on a regular basis is trying to get people to accept the truth in what they’re being told. After decades of drip feeding and illusion, however, trying to change mindsets overnight is not an easy task.

The facts first

Engineers work on the facts first and their minds work on the basis that once you can prove the facts and establish them you can then form an informed opinion.

Right…? Wrong!

Cognitive psychology and neuroscience studies apparently find the complete opposite is often true. People form opinions based on fear, emotion, anger, and content, rather than relying on facts. The fact that you can prove your point still doesn’t often change an individual’s mindset, which to an engineer

Even in the case where you present new information that can categorically prove you’re correct, individuals really don’t like being proven wrong. Then again, most engineers I speak to really can’t understand how people think ice cream will hold up a bridge just because the internet says so! (A bit of flippancy never hurt anyone)

Our beliefs are formed by the things we see and hear. The media and the internet all have a place in forming our opinions, together with schools and the environment in which we grow up. Opinions are reinforced over time by the social groups and friends that we make, which can influence the way our brain perceives things and our interactions with the world, as well as the way the world interacts with us.

The old saying that ‘your perception of the world is the reality you tend to see and receive’ is a very true statement.

My psychiatrist friend went on to explain that ‘cognitive bias’ can kick in very easily when evidence contrary to one’s own beliefs is presented. Instead of re-evaluating the new evidence presented, individuals will often reject this ‘incompatible evidence’ if it doesn’t fit what they already know or believe. I’ll admit that I’ve been guilty of this myself in the past.

There’s also another form of cognitive bias which can slow down the process of changing an individual’s mind and it’s known as ‘confirmation bias’ –the

Raphael Magnus (IEng MIET, LCGI, AQE, NCRQ), MD at Safe-Electric, ponders the psychology behind why individuals choose price over safety.

“Some opinions may have started originally with a basis on real facts. But, much like the old Chinese Whispers game, they’ve changed after each evolution into something people now believe to be true!”

tendency to seek out information or interpret things in a way that supports our existing beliefs.

An example from our industry

Let’s now ut this into some context that makes sense for the electrical industry:

If someone believes that inspecting and then testing an electrical circuit can be undertaken for £3 - £10 per circuit (which is absolutely ridiculous), attempting to convince that person otherwise is like trying to row up Niagara Falls without a paddle –no matter how hard you try, you’re fighting a losing battle.

So, what can be done about this situation? As engineers, we have a duty to try and inform people of the facts, and change simply has to come from within.

I’m a member of the Engineering Council, and as part of this I signed up to and accepted the principles that guide engineering professionals. These are listed below, as taken directly from the Engineering Council website.

Yet, I still see so many people selling an illusion that simply can’t be achieved safely for the costs they’ve stated to a customer. In many circumstances, the only way the price quoted can be achieved is by cutting corners, which will ultimately compromise safety, and this is just not acceptable to me. In fact, I believe it is morally unethical.

As an industry we are better than this! If an individual comes to me (or any other competent engineer, for that matter) I will tell them what they NEED to hear, not

what they WANT to hear. Can the individual be open-minded enough to receive and process this information when for decades they’ve been told the complete opposite?

When we introduce our business to customers, we explain that they’ll be getting a competent, informed opinion (the truth, basically), and if they decide that we’re not for them we still insist that they seek out other properly trained and competent engineers to carry out what is potentially life-saving work.

The more I speak to like-minded engineers in the industry, the more I realise I’m not the only one who has these frustrations. I believe that the danger here is that genuine competence and expertise will eventually disappear from this sector as ‘cowboy’ operators take a firmer grip.

But why should those who want to do the job with integrity and pride be priced out of a market in which they’ve spent years honing their expertise and competence?

“Why should those who want to do the job with integrity and pride be priced out of a market in which they’ve spent years honing their expertise and competence?”

(HELPING) HAND OF POD

QAs the founder and host of the Hit the Lights podcast, what prompted you to start the show?

When going through the process to become a chartered engineer, I began to realise the extent of the journey I had taken so far in the industry. I felt that everyone, no matter how short or long their journey might be, had a story to tell and wisdoms to pass on from their experience. The idea of the podcast is to share those journeys and hopefully have some technical discussions along the way.

QHow would you describe the podcast, and what subjects/topics have you covered?

I would describe the podcast as ‘enthusiastic about the electrical industry and the diversity within it’. We’ve covered asbestos, domestic installations, condition reporting, industrial installations and the future of the industry, including special episodes with manufacturers on devices such as AFDDs.

Q Are there any interesting guests and stories from this series?

There are incredible guests across every series. One of my favourite elements from the latest series was having the opportunity to chat with IET President, Sir Julian Young, which was fantastic. There’s also an informative episode on asbestos with Greg Byrne. Mike Page updates us on the second part of his journey with Loadout, while Adam Chapman (Heat

Geek) discusses the future of heating. There’s hopefully a bit of something for everyone –whether it’s the individual or the sector.

Q What do you enjoy about putting the podcast together?

I very much enjoy meeting the wonderful people of our industry. We have such a vast scope in the electrical world, so tapping into their knowledge and experience and sharing it on a wider platform can only be a good thing.

Q Why do you think it is good for the electrical industry to have content that is independently created by electricians/contractors?

Unbiased opinions and experiences are key. There’s no promotional element to

the show other than to share the good, bad and the ugly of the industry we work in. The podcast promotes our industry positively whilst being honest.

Q Do you find it challenging to combine your day job with your podcasting?

Definitely! It’s always a challenge to manage my own diary, let alone combining that with all of the guest’s diaries. As such, putting a series together can take many months.

Q What do you hope to achieve in the future and will we see more series’ of the show?

The Hit the Lights podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, Google and Anchor now. EICA Design Tideway, to he’s continuing to ‘hit the electrical

Hopefully the podcast can grow to reach a bigger audience where they can dip in/out, and find the experience and content they desire. I’m excited to say that two new series’ are already under way and will hopefully be released later this year!

LISTEN

THE ROAD TONET ZERO

By Tom Gillam, Electrician Programme Manager at Schneider Electric

Recent events have only reaffirmed how volatile the state of the world is. With the pandemic, a cost-of-living crisis and the ongoing climate emergency, times seem bleak to say the least. With the United Nations dubbing the twenties as the ‘decade of action’, the time has come for action.

Fortunately, the residential sector has the potential to kickstart dramatic changes, which could be pivotal in bringing on a greener future, with smart and sustainable home solutions at the forefront. But to begin with, homeowners need a clear, simple path that they can follow to overhaul their consumption –one that spotlights the products, developments, and funding that minimises household energy waste and drives true environmental progress.

The technological factor

With over 30 million homes across the UK using energy-intensive appliances, we need to reduce household energy consumption by 80% by 2050 if we’re to meet our net-zero targets. While this may sound daunting and far-fetched, the technology needed to combat energy waste is already here and includes future-proofed insulation, smart housing and green construction methods.

Investment into a smarter, more sustainable home typically sees a 30% reduction in energy usage; reducing carbon footprints and energy bills, too. For instance, the installation of heat pumps and control systems significantly minimise personal contributions to the 40% of global CO2 emissions that heating currently generates.

Additional to energy savings, smart home products contribute to fiscal savings as prosumers who integrate technologies such as solar panels into their homes reduce utility bills and can even earn income by selling excess energy back to the grid.

Smart living should be available to everyone, no matter their background or income. Already, generous funding is available, such as the government scheme to install 600,000 heat pumps in buildings across the UK.

Creating an integrated network

If we’re to make tangible changes, there must firstly be a change in attitude towards an interconnected housing system.

Homes must link to other homes, building a nationwide smart network that learns and adapts from each other’s consumption and efficiency. The housing sector must make it clear that smart homes are now the ‘norm’ and the most efficient way to upgrade our national housing stock.

While this cannot happen overnight, key players in the housing sector must collaborate and illuminate the advantages of smart and sustainable housing to the public. For example, the overall impact that starts with small, incremental technological upgrades, and guarantees greener, more cost-effective living. With home builders, financial institutions (including mortgage providers) and residents onside, we can introduce the right legislation and technologies to help fight against climate change.

The new found appetite for change is clear; homeowners want to undertake practical and sustainable home improvements. 79% of people in the UK and 84% in Ireland state that if they owned a sustainable home, they’d feel like they were playing a genuine role in addressing the overall issue of climate change.

Now we must all come together and take the first step towards creating sustainable homes. Our individual improvements will then grow into something far greater. With just seven and a half years left of our ‘decisive decade’, the time to act is today. Let’s get started.

The key to unlocking greener homes in this ‘Decade of Action’

CODEBREAKERS

Well, there’s not much to say here!

Health and safety officers will tell you that resourceful operators will often modify and circumvent safety protocols, in an effort to improve their situation, without understanding the potential danger they have now caused.

As the Inspector has told us, this is a commercial installation, where there is likely to be an abundance of water and spray. The IP-rated socket is close to the work surface, but that’s why it’s an IP-rated socket-outlet! By modifying the IP rating, there is now a potential for danger, as water can now come into contact with the socket-outlet accessory face.

This is a foolhardy modification that now does not meet the manufacturer’s installation or use instructions. This may be for an operator’s personal use; if this was for an essential production operation, a proprietary accessory should have been provided to maintain the original safety design, given the external influences present within the area.

This should also be reported to the client as soon as possible in order for them to re-affirm the safety protocols and equipment that is there to keep employees and operators safe.

MATT JONES: THIS SOCKET WAS FOUND IN A VERY WET ROOM IN A FISH PROCESSING FACTORY. 10/10 FOR EFFORT ON THIS ONE!

Wherever you find a ‘serial DIYer’ or anyone who wants to re-purpose an area for little outlay, you’ll often see this kind of potential fire and shock arrangement.

It’s not something that we, as an industry, should ever promote as all electrical work should be carried out only by someone competent to do so.

As a general rule, the understairs cupboard is usually full of seldom used objects which gather dust and/or are of a combustible nature etc. There’s also not much headroom, so it’s likely that being in one from time-to-time will mean the user will come into contact with any light fittings in there.

So, we have a socket-outlet and a light fitting, being supplied by what looks to be a piece of flex, probably re-purposed from a disused appliance. The flex is undersized for the final circuit overcurrent protective device, and it is not fused down via a fused connection unit, so it has no protection against overload.

There is no cpc as the flex is only 2-core (which is why I’m sure this is a DIYer), which

means there is no fault protection. All of this is in an area that is likely to house dusty combustible material, with accessories coming

into contact with the installation’s users. As such, the coding for this is only going to go one way, unfortunately.

NIGEL SMITH: HERE WE HAVE A BIT OF 0.5 FEEDING AN UNDERSTAIRS CUPBOARD WITH POWER AND LIGHTING. NO FUSES, NO SWITCHES, IT’S JUST STABBED STRAIGHT INTO A SOCKET THAT’S ALREADY BEEN SPURRED OFF. NICE JOB!

THE ‘ROUTE’ CAUSE

The ongoing growth of new technology across the electrical contracting industry, teamed with the challenges of meeting the green agenda, means that electrical skills are leading the low carbon, high-tech, building services revolution. This brings with it great opportunities to attract new recruits into the industry, and to upskill those already in the workforce.

ECA plays a leading role in industry skills developments and is involved in many projects to help support members and ensure they’re prepared for what’s ahead.

Review of the Installation Electrician apprenticeship

Apprenticeships remain at the heart of electrical industry training. The four-year electrotechnical apprenticeship has weathered the COVID storm well, with intake numbers holding up throughout the pandemic and even an increase in new recruits this year. Even with these encouraging figures, we need to be mindful that the number of applicants always greatly exceeds the number of opportunities available, so we really do need more employers to get involved in apprenticeship recruitment.

To ensure that industry training remains fit for purpose and relevant to employer needs, it’s important that the content of the apprenticeship and the

accompanying industry assessment of competence, the AM2, continue to reflect workplace requirements.

A review of the Installation Electrician apprenticeship standard in England is now underway and we encourage businesses to get involved in the online consultation process in the coming months. In addition to looking at industry-specific technical needs, the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) now also requires consideration of wider-reaching aspects such as mental health, diversity, sustainability and modern working methods.

The new Domestic Electrician apprenticeship, now approved for delivery in England, introduces an industry-recognised standard, along with a rigorous assessment route, that has long been called for within the domestic market. Since it follows all the latest IfATE specifications and requirements, we may be able to use some of the learning from the Domestic Electrician development process to inform the Installation Electrician review.

Recognising prior learning

For those already working in the industry, the parallel Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) route for the Installation Electrician will also be revised to reflect the new apprenticeship requirements. In addition, a new Domestic Electrician EWA is already under development by an industry working group.

The Construction Route –what needs to change?

Andrew Eldred, ECA Director of Workforce & Public Affairs, offers his thoughts.

“A review of the Installation Electrician apprenticeship standard in England is now underway...”

Both EWAs will build on experience to date. For example, whilst many training providers are operating as intended, we see some who refuse to give adequate recognition to prior learning (RPL) and others who are overly generous and fail to acknowledge the EWA entry requirement for five years’ post-training experience.

Action is taken wherever issues are identified, but these incidents clearly highlight the need for more prescriptive governance frameworks. ECA, through TESP, is therefore working with awarding organisations to put these frameworks in place. To help ensure we can have a wider picture of any training providers who do not have adequate RPL processes in place, we’re keen to hear of any experiences of the problem.

Upskilling and wider career progression

These two core foundations –apprenticeships and EWAs – are also the starting point for ECA’s “Electrician Plus” model for progression and qualification in new technologies. ECA has worked with

City & Guilds on its new qualifications for electrical vehicle charging and we’re pleased to see that learners must hold a recognised electrical qualification to register for an EV charger qualification. We’re now working with MCS to embed similar requirements for other relevant technologies.

To help ECA members offer clearer career progression routes and identify available support, ECA is currently working on a guide to apprenticeships which may support progression into managerial, business, commercial or higher technical roles. Higher-level apprenticeships such as these can be an

excellent opportunity for further development. Employers can benefit, either by using their apprenticeship levy or drawing down funding to upskill via an apprenticeship programme.

Offsite techniques and systems integration

In terms of technical skills, work is ongoing to explore the impact of new methods such as offsite construction and the increasing need for skilled personnel to ensure smart and intelligent systems are properly integrated with each other. ECA has identified member support for a structured training route for this specialist ‘Systems Integrator’ role, and importantly that it should be developed via upskilling of qualified electricians.

Clearly there is much in the pipeline and some exciting, if challenging, times ahead.

GET MORE DETAILS ON ECA MEMBERSHIP AND BENEFITS WWW.RDR.LINK/EAK011

“ECA has identified member support for a structured training route for this specialist ‘Systems Integrator’ role...”

MIRCOWAVE LEAKAGE TESTING IN OFFICES

When the PAT testing Code of Practice was updated in November 2012, the microwave leakage test was removed. The first reason for removal was because it was decided that PAT applied to the electrical safety of an appliance, whereas the microwave leakage test is secondary to the initial PAT test.

Required standards

Secondly, this test should be carried out using the correct equipment. It was felt that there were too many low-cost devices being used to measure microwave leakage that do not meet the required standard. The routine tests are defined in BS EN 60335-2-25:2002, for domestic microwave ovens, and in BS EN 60335-2-90:2002, for commercial microwave ovens.

The removal of the test from the Code of Practice does not mean it should no longer be carried out at all, however. A risk assessment should be undertaken to determine what testing is required and how often. Microwave ovens in commercial premises, such as staff areas, may be intensively used and therefore more likely to be a problem. This applies even more in catering establishments.

The leakage test is designed to check there is no harmful radiation leaking from the appliance. This can happen if door seals are faulty, or if the shielding has been compromised in any way. By using a proper microwave leakage detector, you’ll clearly see if there is any dangerous leakage.

The test must be carried out while the microwave is in operation. It is important to note that the tester must be exactly 50mm away from the microwave during the test. A good leakage tester will have a spacer that ensures this distance is always maintained.

Microwave leakage is expressed as microwave power density in mW/cm2 Leakage should not exceed 5mW/cm2 (sometimes expressed as 50W/m2) when measured at a distance of 50mm or more. The tester should be passed over the

whole of the appliance, especially around the door seals, to check for leakage.

If the result exceeds the recommend limit, the microwave should be removed from service and repaired or disposed of safely. It is also important to check that the microwave power output hasn’t decreased, as this could lead to food poisoning.

The Martindale TEK500 microwave leakage detector is designed to test for microwave leakage in accordance with the routine tests in the standards mentioned earlier in this article and has featured in previous editions of the Code of Practice.

The TEK500 kit provides calibrated beakers and a thermometer with a guide to calculation so you can check the power output is correct.

The experts at Martindale Electric take a close at requirements for microwave leakage testing in office and catering locations.

“Microwave ovens in commercial premises, such as staff areas, may be intensively used and therefore more likely to be a problem.”

BROWSE

LEAVE THE LIGHTing ON

In this series of articles, I’ll be looking at the requirements for emergency lighting within premises that have a variety of solutions depending on the assessment of the type, use and operation of each building.

BS 5266-1 provides a Code of Practice (CoP) on the methods to achieve the functions that an emergency lighting system has to provide to ensure a safe means of escape, or an area of safety, or continued operation of the premises. This article will provide an understanding of BS 5266 and how to apply each Clause.

Emergency lighting systems

The CoP gives an explanation of the types of emergency lighting systems and a description of what each system will cover. While the following systems are listed individually, they can be combined within a single system.

Emergency lighting can perform the following functions:

a) Emergency escape lighting, which provides illumination of escape routes, signs and points of emphasis to assist occupants to evacuate the premises,

b) Emergency safety lighting, which provides lighting for safe movement in the premises when the occupants need not evacuate the premises immediately,

c) Standby lighting, powered by an alternative power supply, which provides sufficient lighting to operate the premises normally in the event of a total failure of the main power supply.

British Standards

Within BS 5266-1 there is a further list of normative references, which include a range of BS, BS EN, BS EN ISO, IEC, BS ISO standards that are essential to how emergency lighting systems are designed, installed and commissioned. These are set out in three levels, as indicated in Fig 1, comprising of the base document, the system standards and the product standards.

As you would expect for an emergency lighting system, the requirements of BS

7671 are an integral part of the range of standards referenced in the CoP. As with fire detection and fire alarm systems, emergency lighting is sometimes seen as not having to comply with the requirements for BS 7671 because of the reference within Regulation 110.1.3.

The details include wording that BS 7671 is intended to be applied to all electrical installations, although it also specifies that it may need to be supplemented by other British or Harmonized Standards.

In Part 1 of his mini-series on emergency lighting requirements, Frank Bertie, Chief Technical Officer at NAPIT, explains why evacuation routes must be clearly illuminated in accordance with BS 5266 emergency lighting requirements.

BS 5266 and BS EN 1838 for emergency lighting are included in Regulation 110.1.3 (ii). These are repeated again within Regulation 560.9, which states emergency lighting systems shall comply with the relevant parts of BS 5266 series and BS EN 1838.

Emergency lighting and electrical installations

As emergency lighting is a more integral part of the electrical installation than the fire systems, the relationship between BS 7671 and BS 5266 is more interlinked, therefore understanding the requirements of all of the relevant standards is essential to those working in this area.

The design must first consider the emergency lighting system in conjunction with the type of premises, taking into account any particular legislation that may be applicable and state the type of system that is required.

Prior to the installation of an emergency lighting system, the owner and/or occupier would need to have discussions with the architect, lighting engineer, installer, local building control and, if necessary, the electrical supplier.

The emergency strategy for the premises will need to be agreed, taking into account either the immediate evacuation or continued occupation of the premises.

Essential information is required at the design stage, which will cover escape routes, open areas, high risk task areas, fire and other safety equipment, and details of normal lighting and controls.

The information will form part of the records to be retained by the responsible person for the premises and must be available throughout the lifetime of the installation to allow revisions, alterations and upgrading to be carried out on the premises to ensure that the emergency lighting system remains operational and compliant with relevant legislation and standards.

Escape or safety protection

When a building has been designated for escape or safety protection, the requirements for emergency escape lighting should be in accordance with BS EN 1838 and the relevant recommendations of BS 5266-1.

Therefore, in the event of a failure of

supply to the normal lighting, there should be a provision of emergency escape lighting that allows those present within the premises to evacuate safely. This will involve the ability to clearly locate and identify the escape routes by being able to follow the escape route directional signs, including any exit signs at doors.

Determining emergency lighting levels

The illuminance levels for any emergency lighting system have to take into account the layout of the areas with escape routes and any open areas, as well as any extenuating circumstances that can have an effect on the operation of the luminaires, such as voltage reductions or voltage drops, battery lifespan, lamp aging, and dirt and dust accumulation.

Lighting should be uniform and avoid any variations in lighting levels that could create dark spots in the building areas covered by the emergency lighting. Also, the luminaires should be situated at least 30˚ out of the line of sight to prevent glare.

Where there are defined escape routes, the CoP provides the minimum requirements for the illuminance at floor level for an escape route up to two metres wide that should not be less than that of 1 lx, see Fig 2.

Open areas with floor areas greater that 60 m2 or other such areas included in the risk assessment should be provided with horizontal illuminance of 0.5 lx, but the perimeter of the area can be excluded for the border of 0.5 m.

Another location to consider is any area that would be classed as a high-risk task area, which could cause potentially dangerous situations if the lighting was

subject to failure.

In order to permit safe and proper shut-down procedures for the safety of the operator, staff or any other occupants, the illuminance should be no less than 10% of the normal lighting levels at those areas where the tasks are being performed.

Conclusion

It is essential that those individuals who are technically responsible and those who install and commission work on electrical installations with emergency lighting systems in such premises have adequate training and knowledge.

Without access to this range of standards, it wouldn’t be possible to confirm whether emergency lighting systems have been installed in accordance with the standards.

Compliant emergency lighting systems require competence and knowledge. A BAFE Third-Party certification under NAPIT is a highly recognised and excellent way to demonstrate competency, one that is likely to become even more common as standards raise and accountability increases.

If you’re an electrician and are looking to develop your skills and increase the range of work you’re competent to undertake, a specialised course with NAPIT Training can be of immense benefit.

COMPETENCE BREEDS CONFIDENCE

As the UK steers towards a net-zero future, the registration of electric vehicles is increasing, as is the requirement for electric vehicle charging points –whether that be for domestic or commercial environments. With this, naturally, comes the demand for EV charging points that aren’t just easy-to-use, but safe also.

Where electricity is involved, safety is absolutely paramount for the installer and the end-user. Quality and safe installations are therefore crucial in ensuring both a risk-free installation process and a risk-free user experience.

Change is coming

Recently, City & Guilds announced its changes to the electric vehicle chargepoint installation course, introducing the C&G 2921 qualification to standardise installation of charging points across domestic and commercial locations.

The rationale behind the new qualification is to ensure that EV chargepoint installations are carried out safely to minimise risk for all parties involved; from the installer to the EV chargepoint operator and to the EV driver.

This move from C&G has been widely welcomed by the industry, particularly after research in 2020 found that 20% of EV charging point installations were potentially dangerous.

One significant change to the C&G EV chargepoint installation course is the entry requirements – the learner must be either a practising electrician or electrical engineer and have a Level 3 NVQ Diploma or Electrotechnical qualification (similar/older qualifications will also be considered,

including an ECS Gold Card). Installers with older qualifications that are greater than five-years old will need to demonstrate continued professional development (CPD) to enrol onto the C&G 2921.

Introducing a new standard that ensures the safety of installations and chargepoint usage is not only important for the installation itself, but for the chargepoint user –safety is key and the welfare of customers is paramount.

Whilst safety is a motivating factor for the introduction of the C&G 2921 qualification, enrolling into the qualification provides installers with greater understanding and knowledge of EV charging points, which is inevitably far more beneficial than treating the installation of a charging points as a ‘usual’ or ‘normal’ electrical installation.

Improving competence

Universal Skills Group, a leading provider of EV chargepoint installation training and providers of the C&G 2921 qualification, is

Zak Lee, Head of Technical at Sevadis, discusses the importance of safe EV chargepoint installations and the new C&G 2921 qualification.

ensuring that its course continues to deliver ‘hands-on’ training, allowing installers to get-to-grips with the EV charging point, whilst also providing the know-how for maintenance, protecting against PEN conductor faults, smart functions of charging points and common EV chargepoint design elements.

For Universal Skills Group, offering this C&G 2921 not only provides prospective EV chargepoint installers with the competence to deliver installations on a small and large scale, it also creates new opportunities (such as becoming an OZEV

approved installer) which in turn can generate additional business for the electrical installer.

Supporting cast

At Sevadis, anything that supports the quality of installations plays a significant role for the business; safe and quality installations generate customer satisfaction and customer satisfaction motivates us to continue providing the best for the current EV charging market.

As training is such a fundamental element to ensuring quality installations,

we also offer specific product training to prospective EV charging point installers, ensuring they are confident and competent when installing charging points in the future.

If you’re an installer looking to install EV charging points and require further support and guidance, please get in touch directly at: zak.l@sevadis.com

BROWSE

The new ETHOS 8600 Electric Vehicle Charge Point Test

Adaptor is a universal adaptor that can be used in conjunction with any 18th Edition multifunction tester on the market. The installation of EV charge points is a huge and growing market. According to industry experts Zap-Map, as of 31st July 2022 there were 33,281 charging points across 20,336 UK locations. Furthermore, 7,500 charge points were added to the UK network between 2020 and the end of 2021 – a 36% growth in installations (source: Zap-Map - How many electric charging points in the UK 2022).

Big opportunity for installers EV charging points should be tested as part of the initial installation and repeated periodically, so this essentially means that every charge point in existence is an

installation that requires testing to the 18th Edition regulations. The new ETHOS 8600 is an adaptor that helps you to do just that, forming an essential part of an installer’s kit when testing EV charge points.

The ETHOS 8600 is a compact, simple to use product that can perform all of the functions required by the electrical contractor to fully test Mode 3 AC EV charge points. Designed to test the function and safety of a charging point, the adaptor allows you to conduct tests using appropriate single or multifunction test instruments on EV charging points in accordance with IEC/EN 61851-1 and IEC/HD 60364-7-722.

Specially designed to comply with UK, European and other International wiring regulations and standards, it can be used on all single and three phase electric vehicle charge points with appropriate connectors. overcome

The ETHOS 8600 is supplied with a fixed Type 2 connector, while a Type 2 to Type 1 adaptor is also supplied, making it suitable for all types of EV charge point. The 8600 will perform a pre-test safety check by indicating if there is excessive voltage on the PE conductor. This ensures safe working best practice.

Helpstarts at Home with new webinars

Bird Home Automation is hosting free webinars for electricians, real estate developers and architects this autumn and winter. The company develops and manufactures DoorBird IP video door intercoms, access control systems, indoor stations and accessory products in Berlin, Germany. The webinar topics include various use cases in single-family houses, multi-tenant, and commercial buildings, customizing options in the 3D configurator, and integration in SIP telephone systems or building and home automation systems.

Each online event focuses on secure and flexible access control, options for individual installation conditions, hassle-free upgrading and retrofitting, and compatibility with other smart home systems.

The webinar series will take place on the following dates:

10th Oct, 10:00 am (PST):

DoorBird in the smart home & further integration possibilities 19th Oct, 10:00 am (CEST):

DoorBird with access control for apartment buildings and office complexes

11th Nov, 10:00 am (PST):

DoorBird setup and configuration basics as a live demonstration 17th Nov, 10:00 am (CET):

DoorBird custom solutions and 3D configurator 29th Nov, 10:00 am (CET):

DoorBird and SIP - Integration into phone system 7th Dec, 10:00 am (CET):

DoorBird Integrations - How to use the API

The webinars last approximately 45 minutes and are suitable for both newcomers to the multifaceted world of IP door communications and advanced users who wish to deepen their knowledge in this segment.

Signify announces first ever on-demand CIBSE accredited CPDs

Signify has announced five new CIBSE accredited Continuous Professional Development (CPD) courses to arm specifiers, lighting designers, facilities managers and installers with the knowledge to be able to respond to a range of business needs.

Ranging from topics like the correct use of UV-C technology as an added layer for disinfection to driving better connectivity through lighting, the five new CPDs are the first ever on-demand Chartered

Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) accredited CPDs. These courses are an addition to an existing portfolio of 700 courses on the Signify Lighting Academy that delivers training to thousands of subscribers. The trainings are available on demand, and at the end of the training, a certificate is generated confirming the CPD hours.

Simon Greenwood, Sales Director, Trade and Specification, Signify UK&I, said: "We’re proud to work closely with CIBSE to provide the first ever on-demand digital CPDs. It’s exciting to offer the

trade community continuous learning and development, on the go, and play our part in making the industry grow.

“It is our aim is to create a complete programme of CPDs covering the entire spectrum of lighting. We see it as an important part of our role to increase knowledge and raise technical standards for the lighting industry.”

He added: “These CPDs also affirm our dedication to developing long-term partnerships with our customers and supporting them in delivering their lighting visions –from design through to installation and maintenance.”

‘WIRE’ up for brand new NICEIC technical webinars

NICEIC has released details of the all-new series of its hit technical webinar series, THE WIRE. Broadcasting live episodes every fortnight, the series will cover important topics, including:

The implementation of BS 7671 Amendment 2, Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarms/BS 5839 part 6, An Introduction to Prosuming Installations, AFDD’s, and Review of Electric Vehicle Charging Installations.

All CPD certified, these in-depth technical webinars, are free and exclusive to NICEIC certified businesses and their staff. Led by experts from NICEIC, THE WIRE can be

accessed from desktop, laptop, tablet or hand-held devices meaning viewers can tune in from a location of their choosing.

It also offers opportunity for interaction between the speakers and the audience. Sharing live polls and taking questions from the floor, the presenters aim to provide answers to the questions electrical contractors truly need.

Furthermore, thanks to its bespoke platform the system also allows attendees to download a personalised CPD certificate at the end of each session to confirm their learning.

For those unable to attend the live events, recordings are made available within 10 days of a webinar on NICEIC’s on-demand library. Viewers tuning in on-demand also benefit from receiving a

CPD certificate.

NICEIC’s Head of Technical Services, Paul Collins, said: “It is essential that all electrical contractors and their employees invest time in their skills and ongoing CPD, and we’re committed to delivering the quality content needed to aid this process”.

BUSINESS MATTERS

THERE IS ONE MISTAKE –KNOWN AS ‘THE BUSINESS DESTROYER’ –THAT KILLS 96% OF UK BUSINESSES.

None of us start a business because we enjoy dealing with the finances. That’s what accountants are for, right? But are we guilty of spending time looking in the ‘rearview mirror’ instead of looking at the road ahead?

Most of us produce a P&L (Profit & Loss) statement or management accounts that give us an idea of how the business performed in the last month. While having a P&L is important, however, it only tells part of the story.

Looking in the rearview mirror only tells you what’s already happened. And if you’re only looking backwards while you’re driving, it’s not going to be long before you crash! If you’re not looking through the front windscreen at the road ahead you won’t spot the potholes and problems before you get to them, making it impossible to prepare.

So, what’s the solution?

Ideally, you want to have a three-month rolling forecast in place. Months 1 and 2 are your ‘basic’ and ‘intermediate’ forecast based on invoices and WIP

(Work in Progress), while month 3 is your ‘advanced’ forecast (which is harder to predict) and relies on your sales forecast and what jobs you’re likely to win and when.

The good news is that you don’t need to do all this yourself. With some half-decent accounting software like Xero, and a bookkeeper/accountant, producing a cash flow forecast should only take a few hours each month, yet it could potentially save your business.

Remember, if you’re only producing a P&L annually you’re just doing it for the tax man. Undertaking this process on a monthly basis helps you spot trends so that you can predict what might happen.

It will also help you close the ‘cash gap’ –if you’ve got a new job on 30-day terms, you’ve got to cover the costs of that job for 30 days before you even raise the invoice, and it could be another 60 days before the money comes in. That means potentially covering all labour and material costs 90 days BEFORE you’ve been paid.

Having your cash flow forecast sorted will help you close the ‘cash gap’ by better monitoring cash in/out. Also, make sure you understand the client payment

cycle and who signs off their invoices, so you can chase the right people.

Another piece of advice I’d offer is not to be tempted by ‘invoice factoring’. This describes a scenario where you receive around 95% of an invoice upfront by ‘selling’ the unpaid invoice. Although it can help cash flow in the short term, it will also have a huge impact on your profits in the longer term.

Essentially it’s no different to discounting, yet when I present the evidence chart (below) to electrical contractors they soon get the picture!

Because your fixed costs don’t reduce when you offer a discount, any ‘money off’ you give has a much greater impact on the amount of profit you end up making.

As you can see by the chart, giving a 10% discount actually reduces your profit by 25%, because you’re only giving away your margin!

On the other hand, increasing your prices by 10% increases your profit by 25%.

If you’re unsure about putting up your prices, ask yourself one question: if you’re providing an above average service, why are you charging an average price?

ZURA LEADS THE CHARGE FOR ROLEC EV

Electric vehicle charger manufacturer, Rolec EV has recently launched Zura, a brand-new charger that has been designed to suit both commercial and domestic charging requirements and to comply with The Electric Vehicle (Smart Charge Points) Regulations 2021.

One step ahead of the game, Rolec EV has also made sure the Zura is ready for the next phase of the regulations that come into effect on the 30th of December 2022, by implementing the key security aspects required by them.

Unique features

Zura is available as a single or dual outlet and comes complete with never-seen-before personalisation options and the most in-demand ‘smart’ features. Indeed, the charger offers homeowners and businesses a more aesthetically pleasing unit, that is simply activated with either an RFID card or a smart device.

One of Rolec EV’s most versatile charging solutions to-date, the Zura is OCCP 1.6 compliant, meaning it can be configured to any mobile App or management platform, including Rolec’s own commercial management system,

VendElectric, and the brand’s other preferred partners, which include Monta, ev.energy, Electric Miles, fuuse, and more.

Furthermore, Zura provides charging power of up to 7.4kW on a single-phase and up to 22kW on a three-phase supply. It is equipped with MID-metering, automatic dynamic load balancing and built-in PME fault detection that ensures the property’s fuse is protected whilst providing a safe charging solution, without the requirement for an earth electrode.

In addition, the unit also has an independent back plate which allows for a quicker and more cost-effective installation process.

Smart thinking

Frankie Mellon, Sales Director at Rolec EV, said: “The UK introduction of the smart chargepoint regulations is a real turning point for the EV charging industry that brings previously unseen features and benefits for chargepoint users.

“For Rolec, the release of the new regulations couldn’t have come at a better time as it coincided with the early development of our brand new Zura model, for which we had already added a

number of highly experienced engineers to our R&D team.”

He continues: “It can’t be denied that there have been some challenges, but the engineers have been in their element with this, and developments initially destined just for Zura have quickly been adopted by our other models such as BasicCharge and Quantum.

“We’ve always been extremely proud of our chargepoints and have seen it as a compliment when other manufacturers have followed our lead. But, after seeing the advances we’ve made in the electronics and software utilised in the Zura unit, I’ve got to say, we’re a step ahead of the rest with a fully future-proofed and diverse chargepoint solution.”

BROWSE THE ZURA PRODUCT DATA SHEET

We learn more about the benefits of switching to Rolec EV’s latest chargepoint solution.

TEST FOR PROFIT!

With the news full of stories about galloping inflation and soaring fuel costs, it’s no surprise that many electricians and contractors are looking around for ways of boosting their income. But this is nothing new, says Julian Grant of Chauvin Arnoux.

Ever since the first electricians and contractors started rolling out their cable drums, they’ve been alert for new opportunities and, over the years, there have been many of these.

Some contractors, for example, diversified into offering fire alarms and security systems and, when the Electricity at Work Regulations came into force in 1990, creating a demand for portable appliance (PAT) testing, many were happy to provide this service and benefit from the revenue it provided. Then came opportunities to install audio and video systems, along with Ethernet cabling for computer systems.

More recently, there has been strong growth in the demand for solar PV installations, EV charge points and heat pumps, all of which offer electricians and contractors excellent ways of generating very welcome extra income. It’s probable that many of you will already have explored some, if not all of these opportunities, so what about some new ideas? How about ways of making money by testing, for example?

Let’s take a look at four potentially profitable suggestions:

Energy surveys

The truth is that most businesses don’t have any detailed idea of where and when they’re using electrical energy. With energy costs multiplying by terrifying factors, they’d probably be horrified to know that 46% of the energy used by SMEs is used out of hours when the business is closed, and that office equipment left on standby during bank holidays and weekends will cost the average SME around £6,000 per year –and that’s at the old energy prices!

With a portable energy logger (PEL), you can offer your customers energy surveys and show them exactly where and when they’re using energy. You simply

monitor their consumption at key points (usually a distribution board, over a period of time) and your PEL will do all the work for you before presenting a report. You’ll be helping your customer to make worthwhile savings on their energy bills and it’s likely you’ll get some additional work as well, such as fitting occupancy sensors to control indoor lighting and heating, and time switches to control exterior lights.

Load balance testing

Load balancing is worthwhile on existing installations and is particularly important when new high-power loads, such as EV chargers, are being installed. No doubt when an installation was new, efforts would have been made to balance the loads across all three phases of the supply. But much can change over time and, if new equipment has been added, the loads may now be way out of balance.

This can lead to excessive losses, premature failure of three-phase motors and increased energy charges. An investigation using your PEL over a week (or maybe even just a day) will allow imbalance to be easily identified. Action, such as rewiring the loads to spread them more evenly over the phases, can then be taken to put things right!

Power factor analysis

Power factor is also an issue that tends to develop over time because new installations are likely to have effective power factor correction. As was the case with imbalance, however, new loads may have been added without considering whether the power factor correction needed updating. Or it may simply be that the capacitor bank used for power factor correction is no longer performing as it should. Whatever the cause, poor power factor, which means lots of reactive power, is money straight down the drain.

Reactive power, which does nothing useful at all, costs exactly the same as true power so, by offering to check the power factor for your customers, you’re potentially offering to help them make really big savings. As with most measurements, it’s best to log power factor over time to get a complete picture, as some loads may only be operating at particular times of day or on specific days of the week. If poor power factor is found, investing in a new or upgraded correction system will certainly be money well spent for your customer, who will recoup their expenditure in a very short time.

Harmonic measurements

Finally, let’s turn to harmonics which are currents at whole-number multiples of the supply frequency. For example, 100 Hz, 150 Hz, 200 Hz and so on for a 50 Hz supply. These days, non-linear loads are everywhere. These are things like variable speed drives, computer power supplies, office equipment and even LED lighting installations. And non-linear loads have an undesirable tendency to inject harmonics into the power system.

This matters because harmonics produce excessive heat in conductors and can cause all sorts of problems with sensitive electronic equipment. Harmonics can also make lights flicker and motors buzz, and they’re a common source of nuisance tripping in protective devices. In short, they’re a real menace, but if you’re armed with your trusty PEL, you’ll be able to check out your customers’ installations to

find out what harmonics are present and to trace their source. With this done, remedial measures, such as equipment upgrades or the installation of filters, can be taken.

If you don’t measure something, you can’t control it. That’s often been said, but it remains as true as ever in the case of electrical systems. Your customers can only control their energy usage (and their bills) if they know what’s going on in their installations. Testing services you can easily offer will give them all the information they need. Providing those services is a great opportunity for you to increase your profit while saving your customers money. As we’ve seen, the results of the tests are very likely to provide even more work for you.

“If you don’t measure something, you can’t control it.”

Last year almost 500,000 workers across the UK suffered from work-related musculoskeletal disorders, with conditions involving the lower limbs the third most common. As part of its #KneelSmartKneelSafe campaign, ToughBuilt discovers the human stories behind this worrying statistic.

THE PAINFULTRUTH

“

When we started our #KneelSmartKneelSafe campaign, we did so with our eyes open” explains Vahe Der Kureghian, ToughBuilt’s European Managing Director.

“As a leading manufacturer of knee pads, offering one of the largest selections of CE and UKCA marked products on the market, ToughBuilt knows better than most about the devastating consequences of work-related knee conditions.

“In fact, it was this understanding that led to #KneelSmartKneelSafe in the first place. We felt we had a duty of care to protect people by sharing our knowledge and raising awareness of just how grave the issue is. Safety boots, glasses, gloves, and helmets are all compulsory PPE on the jobsite, but knee pads are often overlooked. At ToughBuilt, we’re on a mission to change that.”

He continues: “We’ve been shocked by the accounts of people for whom our efforts have come too late. Individuals from many different professions have reached out to us via social media to express their support for the campaign and to share their stories in the hope that they can be used to safeguard others.”

Lost workdays and careers

One of the individuals to get in touch is Adrian – an electrician based in South

West England. Having started out in his chosen profession at 16, he, like many other electricians, has spent a considerable amount of time on his knees.

After ten years, the need for frequent kneeling began to take its toll and Adrian started suffering from knee pain. Worse was to come, when, after a prolonged

period of kneeling to fit underfloor heating, he developed prepatellar bursitis.

This condition, which is often caused by repetitive kneeling, affects the prepatellar bursa –a fluid-filled sac, which sits in front of the kneecap. Its purpose is to provide cushioning and protection but if it is subjected to too much pressure, it produces more fluid to protect the knee and starts to swell, causing excruciating pain.

In Adrian’s case, the prepatellar bursa on his right leg swelled to the size of a cricket ball and he was forced to take three weeks off work. Since then, he has suffered from flare-ups repeatedly and he struggles to put pressure on his right knee, either at work or at home when playing with his children. He has been told by doctors that there is nothing they can do for him.

His advice to anyone embarking on a career where kneeling is commonplace is to start using knee protection as soon as possible. Adrian’s experience shows that if you wait until your knees start to hurt, it’s already too late.

A common story

Adrian’s story is worrying and even more so because it’s not unique. ToughBuilt has also heard from Neil who has been living with work-related knee problems for more than a decade.

Neil, who is an electrician like Adrian, began his career as an apprentice. By the

Neil

Adrian

time he reached his twenties, he started suffering pain and discomfort in his knee which doctors diagnosed as being caused by repetitive kneeling, unprotected, on hard surfaces like joists.

In many cases with knee conditions, prevention is better than cure, and again, there was little medical staff could do for him. The damage was irreversible and was due to early and excessive ‘wear and tear’. Neil was prescribed medication to deal with the immediate swelling but longer term, the pain he now feels when kneeling has had to become a fact of life.

Based on his own painful experience, Neil firmly advocates the use of good quality knee pads and is keen to warn against the dangers of being complacent and believing that either your knees are indestructible or that work-related knee problems won’t happen to you.

The uncomfortable facts “ToughBuilt’s engagement with different trade professionals as part of its #KneelSmartKneelSafe campaign has revealed that one of the biggest reasons why knee pads aren’t worn as widely as they should be, isn’t just down to a lack of awareness” explains Vahe. “It’s also because of a perceived lack of comfort.

“Often, the discomfort from wearing ill-fitting, softly padded or poorly designed knee pads can be worse than that from kneeling on a hard surface so it’s not surprising that some individuals opt for what feels like the lesser of two evils.”

In fact, many of those that ToughBuilt has spoken to have highlighted how the

knee pads they’ve used in the past slipped down their legs and became more like shin pads. They could only avoid this by tightening the straps so tightly that it was painful or reduced their circulation.

ToughBuilt has also received repeated feedback that knee pads can often lack versatility and can be cumbersome for that ‘quick’ job or when switching between different tasks or work environments.

Through its #KneelSmartKneelSafe campaign, the company is hoping to

address some of these concerns. As an example, ToughBuilt’s GelFit Fanatic Thigh Support Knee Pads have been purposely designed to offer all day kneeling comfort. Their ergonomic gel and foam design embraces the natural shape of the knee and upper shin, maximising pressure distribution for an extremely comfortable all-day fit.

‘Kneesy’ does it

To address the issue of potential circulation cut-off, this knee pad utilises a double, adjustable, soft strap, which sits comfortably above and below the knee and locks the knee pad firmly in place, stopping it from falling down the knee.

Its ergonomic design also helps alleviate pressure on the shins and feet whilst kneeling, by encouraging users to stay upright and balanced, and comfortably allows side-to-side rocking.

Similarly, the GelFit SnapShell Knee Pad System – which was commended for Product Innovation and as a Safety Solution at the 2022 British Safety Industry Federation Awards – uses patented technology to offer complete flexibility.

The SnapShell at the front of the pad is interchangeable and provides the freedom to quickly tailor knee pads to suit different tasks and work environments. Three types of SnapShell are available –Non-Marring for delicate flooring, Rockers for use on rough terrain and Stablisers to keep you stationary on the ground. The pads can also be used without the SnapShells.

Concluding, Vahe adds: “In order to show the trade how knee pads can be used safely, comfortably and conveniently, ToughBuilt’s activity under #KneelSmartKneelSafe continues to employ various methods – from articles like this one to ongoing collaborations with social media influencers.

“Our efforts remain tireless. Why? Because if we can help just one person to avoid the agonising consequences endured by Adrian and Neil, then our focus and determination will have been worthwhile.”

BROWSE THE TOUGHBUILT GELFIT KNEE PADS PRODUCT INFORMATION PAGE AT:

“Prepatellar bursitis is often caused by repetitive kneeling and affects the prepatellar bursa –a fluidfilled sac which sits in front of the knee cap.”

THE INNOVATION GAME

BColchester Community Stadium. Some of the manufacturer’s own experts were on hand to explain the latest technologies, whilst tradespeople themselves could get to grips with advances in machines and accessories.

The problem solvers

Bosch Professional pitches its Expert range as problem solving accessories, and many of the products in this premium brand have been designed around what’s currently in vogue in home improvement.

The HEX-9 HardCeramic bit is, for example, an answer to the recent trend for hard tiles – including porcelain. An asymmetric drill tip ensures the bit catches the material as soon as you start drilling –without any wandering – which makes for greater accuracy, less chance of damage to the worksurface, and a hole exactly where you want it.

heating up, so no cooling or lubricant is required, and the increased efficiency means less dust. Not only that, if you’re drilling holes close to each other through porcelain with a standard bit then you risk compromising the integrity of the tile, but not so with the HEX-9 HardCeramic bit, where there’s a much-reduced chance of the whole thing cracking.

As we discovered at the Innovation Day demonstration, starting slowly – and in a low gear – the bit will positively sail through a material which at times can seem impenetrable to the mere mortals currently available in the drill bit market.

Elsewhere in the Expert range the Bosch MultiConstruction bit for drill drivers and impact drill drivers can be used on a wide range of materials, many of which are handily depicted on the packaging. As an accessory this multi-tasker is all about precision, with the same high performance carbide material at the tip and patented

and accessories on show at the Bosch Innovation Day

Where this power tool expert has really taken a further leap forward is with its wood drilling spade bit design. One look at the business end of the Expert SelfCut Speed and you’ll notice the difference. Thanks to Bosch Tip Technology, a self-feeding thread drives itself into the material with significantly increased speed – and less effort for the end user. Available from 10-32mm sizes, the manufacturer boasts that it’s up to three times faster than a standard bit, whilst a wave-shaped spade configuration aids material removal whilst drilling.

Even more muscle

As a manufacturer Bosch is striving for the perfect combination of precision in its accessories and power in its tools. If it’s muscle you’re after then the coming together of the company’s BITURBO Brushless motor and ProCORE 18V Battery in tools like the GSR 18V-150C Drill Driver – and GSB 18V-150C Combi – are eloquent demonstrations of what that can achieve in practice. Indeed, with a 12Ah ProCORE 18V power source, delivering 150Nm of torque, the latter has the distinction of being the most powerful tool of its kind available today – and that’s with a battery that can easily complete a full day’s work on a single charge.

All that force requires a good-sized and robust side-handle and, with the ability to cut with a 150mm hole saw, that’s complemented by KickBack Control, which will shut down the machine if the tool binds up in the material. The GSR unit is equipped with both drill and screwdriving functions, whilst the GSB combi adds a hammer setting to those two. In either case, the power of these deceptively small machines is prodigious.

At the Innovation Day the GSR was set up with a 26mm auger bit which was drilling through an old oak beam, a feat it comfortably achieved in the second of the two available speed settings. Try that with an inferior product and at the very least the tool will give up the ghost – worst case scenario and you’re looking at a burn-out gear box.

The Electronic Angle Detection on both machines is equipped with two presets at 45 and 60° and allows for screwing and drilling into an included surface at a

specific angle. There’s a further custom option that is accessible via the Bosch App where any angle that’s required can be set.

Brushless power

On other tools in the Bosch range – such as the GKS 18V-68 GC Professional Cordless Circular Saw – BITURBO Brushless can provide up to 1,800 W of power, which is equivalent or exceeds mains powered units. Inside, an incredibly strong magnetic armature, and larger coil windings allows the motor to take full advantage of the power in the ProCORE battery, and that makes matching their corded counterparts a feature of this technology.

The ProCORE Battery Range is available in 4.0Ah, 8.0Ah and 12.0Ah and has its own 16A dedicated charger. Crucially, however, the current generation of Bosch batteries remains compatible with all the chargers and 18V Li-ion tools

the manufacturer has produced since 2008. At the same time, it’s equally possible to use a Bosch Coolpack battery on any BITURBO machine – without, of course, the full power that the latest platform provides.

In summary, not only are ProCORE batteries delivering additional power and run times, they’re more compact and, thanks to superior heat dissipation in use, will last longer.

WATCH A VIDEO THAT EXPLAINS THE BITURBO CONCEPT IN FULL AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAK025

WATCH A VIDEO DEMONSTRATION OF PROCORE TECHNOLOGY AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAK026

“... the GSR was set up with a 26mm auger bit which was drilling through an old oak beam, a feat it comfortably achieved in the second of the two available speed settings.”

Having had the pleasure of wearing the Solid Gear Prime GTX Low Safety Trainers for a few months now, all I can say is ‘Wow’! I never imagined the day where I’d be equally comfortable with wearing what is essentially a pair of work safety trainers, in my leisure time as well, but these are genuinely as comfy as any pair of everyday trainers I’ve worn before.

‘Boa’ doesn’t constrict

Much like previous models of Solid Gear safety trainers on the market, they feature the ‘Boa’ system as standard, ensuring minimal fuss on those occasions where you have to slip them on/off regularly. This is particularly handy when you’re working in a domestic premises with new carpets and you realise you’ve forgotten to pack the boot covers!

The only slight downside I’ve found with the Boa system on these trainers is

that it is located on the dominant side of the trainer, whereas on previous Solid Gear variants it has been located in the middle, ensuring you can use one hand to undo both Boa clips without swapping hands. Others may well prefer the new set-up, however.

The Gore-Tex stretch material bends and flexes around your foot, making it a perfect item of footwear if you rack up a lot

Try them for size Solid Gear is also one of the very few brands to offer a large range of sizes. I’m forever seeing posts on social media from trades professionals (both female and male) with above average sized feet enquiring where to buy boots/trainers, as they’re often not available from high street stores. Solid Gear Prime GTX boots come in UK 3 - 13 sizes, which should definitely ensure most individuals are covered. of Turrell the Safety Trainers YOUR FEET SOME ‘PRIME’TIME”

of walking mileage throughout the day. The shoes also offer water resistance, which is a welcome change to some cheaper brands that claim to offer such properties but you soon end up with wet feet when walking through a shallow puddle.

One job I’ve always hated doing throughout my career is making off armoured cable glands, especially in colder weather. My usual tactic is to try and warm the shrouds in my pocket so I’m able to cut them without them splitting, but this has had varying degrees of success.

Thankfully, the folk at Specialised Wiring Accessories (SWA) have come to the rescue by producing the Storm Gland. In a nutshell, it’s basically an SWA gland but the shroud is built on to the gland, minimising installation time. Indeed, if you’re undertaking multiple SWA glands and cutting/fitting cable shrouds as part of the process, you’ll understand how much of a life-saver this product really is.

This plastic coated gland also has

another added bonus. When used on TT installations, where a difference in potential between the incoming cable and the consumer unit could arise, you cannot touch the incoming sheath as it is covered by the gland. This is a major improvement on the design of older style glands where you can remove the shroud without a tool, giving rise to potential danger.

Worth its weight

If you’re price-conscious, it should be noted that these glands are at the premium end of the pricing spectrum. That said, the cost is negligible when you weigh it up against the time saving and safety aspects.

Another big positive is the IP68 rating which is perfect for outside use and for

harsh environments (such as salt air) as the brass components of the gland are enclosed within the unit, unlike standard glands which can be easily weathered in these tough conditions.

This is a really innovative product that solves a very common issue that we electricians face regularly. Needless to say, it’s gone down a ‘storm’! DOWNA

They’re also UV stabilised, which means that they won’t become brittle or discoloured over time when installing them in direct sunlight. That’s certainly not the case for installations of normal shrouded armoured glands.

The glands can be used with non-armoured cable, as well as SY and CY cables, and the cable grip built within the gland tightens around most cables securely, making it a good fit for most installations. They boast a wide temperature rating (-20˚C to +80˚C), so if you’re ever in a position where you need a low or high temperature installation you can use the gland to fit your needs.

CABLES TO

BS 8436 AND PROTECTIVE DEVICE REQUIREMENTS

Cables conforming to BS 8436: 2011. Electric cables –Specification for 300/500 V screened electric cables having low emissions of smoke and corrosive gases when affected by fire, for use in wall, partitions and building voids –Multicore cables are primarily intended for use in walls, partitions and building voids.

Cables conforming to BS 8436 have low emissions of smoke and corrosive gases when exposed to fire and are available with 2, 3 and 4-cores having conductor sizes of 1.0 mm2, 1.5 mm2, 2.5 mm2 and 4.0 mm2. A number of manufacturers produce cables having larger cross-sectional areas, for example, 6 mm2 and 10 mm2. In such cases, it will be necessary to refer to the specific manufacturers’ instructions in respect of their selection and use.

The cables incorporate a thin metallic foil screen which is in direct contact with an uninsulated protective conductor within the cable. Typically, the protective conductor has the same cross-sectional area (csa) as the insulated conductors.

Requirements

Fig 1. Typical example of a 4-core BS 8436 cable

Cables conforming to BS 8436 are listed in Regulation 522.6.204 as one of the types of cable incorporating an earthed metallic covering that may be:

● Concealed in a wall or partition at a depth of less than 50 mm from the surface, without being run in one of the prescribed zones and without having to be provided with additional protection by an RCD, (indent (i) of Regulation 522.6.202).

● Concealed in a wall or partition having an internal construction which includes metallic parts, other than metallic fixings such as nails, screws and the like without having to be provided with additional protection by an RCD, (indent (i) of Regulation 522.6.203).

Automatic disconnection of supply (ADS) Typically, the protective measure automatic disconnection of supply (ADS), in accordance with section 411 of BS 7671 is the intended means of protection against electric shock.

Where this is the case, when a sharp metallic object such as a nail or screw penetrates the foil screened cable, a connection is formed automatically between the inner foil screen, including the cable’s protective conductor, and the internal live conductors. As a result a fault current will flow which should cause the protective device to operate within the required time.

In order for the protective device to operate within the maximum permitted time of Table 41.1 or those stated in Regulation 411.3.2.3 and 411.3.2.4, the

BS conditions given in BS 8436 must be met when installing this particular type of cable.

earth fault loop impedance (Zs) for the circuit must not exceed the maximum earth fault loop impedance values for the protective device given in Tables 41.2 to 41.4. However, where cables to BS 8436 are used, only Table 41.3 shall apply, as discussed below.

Overcurrent protective device for a BS 8436 cable

In addition to meeting the requirements of BS 7671, the overcurrent protective device for a circuit wired with BS 8436 cable must be selected to meet the particular conditions given in that standard. This is necessary in order to prevent the metallic foil screen of the cable from burning away during the penetration of the cable by a nail, screw or similar, making simultaneous contact with a live conductor. This could leave the nail or screw potentially at a line conductor voltage (230 V to Earth), creating a shock risk.

The protective devices used for cables conforming to BS 8436 shall be either a:

● Type B circuit-breaker to BS EN 60898 of energy limiting class 31, or

● Type B RCBO to BS EN 61009 of energy limiting class 3.

This precludes the use of any other type of protective device where cables to BS 8436 are utilised.

Furthermore, the circuit protective device must have the following characteristics, specified in Clause 12 of BS 8436: 2011:

(i) the maximum energy let-through (I2t) of the device must not exceed 42,000 A2s for cable sizes of 1.0 mm2 or 1.5 mm2, and 60 000 A2s for a cable size of 2.5 mm2 or 4.0 mm2, and (ii) the maximum current ratings used must not exceed the values detailed in Table 1

The let-through energy of a device can be obtained using the time-current characteristics found in Appendix 3 of BS 7671. From this characteristic, the operating time (t) of the device, in seconds, corresponding to the value of prospective fault current for the circuit (lf ), in amperes, is found. The value of let-through energy can then be calculated by multiplying the square of (lf ) by (t) to give (If 2 t)

However, for fault currents of a very short duration causing the device to operate in less than 0.1 s, the time current characteristic curves in Appendix 3 of BS 7671 are not applicable. Alternative information regarding the let-through energy (I 2 t) of the device should be obtained from the manufacturer or product standards (Regulation 434.5.2).

Conditions (i) and (ii) above are likely to be met where the protective device is a Type B circuit-breaker to BS EN 60898 or a Type B RCBO to BS EN 61009, having an energy limiting class 3, as shown Fig 2

Installation of cable

Whilst BS 7671 provides requirements for the safe installation of electrical installations, Annex A of BS 8436 provides additional guidance on certain installation practices necessary when working with cables to this standard.

Cables to BS 8436 are designed to be installed in air, or closed systems including trunking, in thin partitions and building voids. Where installation falls outside of these reference methods, the cable manufacturer’s guidance should be sought.

Summary

When using foil screened cables to BS 8436: 2011, consideration must be given to the maximum size of conductor in relation to the nominal current rating of the protective device as mentioned in its standard, in addition to the requirements of BS 7671

Where it is expected in a circuit that

under fault conditions a high level of prospective fault current may exist due to low values of earth fault loop impedance, there may be a greater risk of damage to the metallic foil screen.

Type B circuit-breakers to BS EN 60898 or Type B RCBOs to BS EN 61009-1 must be used to provide overcurrent protection for cables to BS 8436. No other means of overcurrent protection is acceptable.

References

1 The energy limiting class of an overcurrent protective device is the (I 2 t) characteristic; a measure of energy let-through under fault conditions occurring within a time period of less than 0.1 s. This characteristic is used typically to obtain selectivity between upstream and downstream overcurrent protective devices.

2 Cables with a csa greater than 4.0 mm2 are not considered in BS 8436. For cables having a larger csa, it will be necessary to refer to the specific manufacturer’s instructions in respect of their selection and use.

3 Maximum current ratings may need to be further reduced depending on installation method and correction factors.

GET DETAILS ABOUT NICEIC REGISTRATION

“This precludes the use of any other type of protective device where cables to BS 8436 are utilised.”

Fig 2. Type B RCBO protective device showing energy limiting class number

Table 1 Current ratings for various conductor sizes2

THE BURNING QUESTIONS

With the continuing focus on building safety, fire-resistant cables – and their ability to service critical systems in the event of a fire – remain under the spotlight.

Fire resistant cables are designed to maintain circuit integrity and continue to work for a specified period of time under defined conditions. They play a fundamental role in ensuring that emergency and building critical systems are supported –including emergency lighting, sprinkler systems, extraction systems, smoke dampers and shutters, emergency generators, pressurisation fans, emergency voice communications and fire alarms –in the event of a fire, providing vital time for the safe passage of occupants out of the building, and allowing for shutdown procedures to take place.

What is the difference between MICC and polymeric fire-resistant cables? Mineral Insulated Copper Clad (MICC) Cable has been used commercially since the 1930s, and to this day is considered the only true fire survival cable.

It is made by placing magnesium oxide around copper rods inside a circular copper tube, known as the copper sheath, for its protection – meaning it has its own fire-proof conduit. And unlike any other type of fire-resistant cable, no polymers, tapes or armouring are used, so this type of cable will operate directly in the heart of a fire and continue to do so safely.

The continuous operating temperatures of cables are often a key factor in selection decisions. A bare mineral insulated cable can work continuously up to 250°C, far more than any other polymeric fire-resistant cable. Mineral Insulated Cables operate directly

Steve Williams, Commercial Manager for Wrexham Mineral Cables, talks about the differences between fire resistant cables, why enhanced testing is required, and how the industry is tackling environmental issues.

in the heart of a fire, continuing to function safely in temperatures in excess of 1,080°C for over three hours, whilst also undergoing direct impact and exposure to water pressure above any current British Standard.

In comparison, polymeric fire-resistant cables rely on MICA tapes and polymers to increase their resistance to fire, yet these materials can burn away at as little as 80°C, exposing the critical conductors.

In order to give some soft skinned polymer cables flame-retardant properties, halogens are added to the outer sheath, such as chlorine, bromine and fluorine. When exposed to a fire, these halogenated polymers release halides, which can be extremely toxic. This smoke not only restricts breathing, but it can also increase the risk of direct inhalation when following the common rules during a fire.

What current standards are there for fire resistant cables?

In order to meet the requirements of a fire-resistant cable, they must meet the British Standard appropriate to their type of fire-resistant cable. There are several references for fire performance on cables including BS 50200, BS8434, BS8519 and BS6387.

All of these standards have a variant of time and temperature the cables are tested at under fire conditions. These can range from a 30-minute rated cable tested at 830°C (PH30 cable as per BS 50200) to a three-hour rated cable tested at 940°C (BS 6387 category C). All of these standards should provide reassurance to the specifier that the chosen cable will continue to work in the event of a fire.

Wrexham Mineral Cables recently gained BS8519 CAT3 approval on the entire range of heavy duty MICC from 7.9mm and above. This test is normally designed for cables over 20mm but the durability and robustness of MICC means it’s the smallest cable ever to achieve a test that involves direct impact, water jet testing and exposure to two hours at temperatures in excess of 800˚C, all on one single cable sample.

The need for enhanced testing

Currently, only fire-resistant cables that are greater in diameter than 20mm must undergo testing for direct impacts to reflect falling debris and water jet testing on a single test sample. Why this is set at 20mm no expert in the field can answer, all we know is it rules out almost 90% of the entire MICC range as their diameters are under 20mm. However, following guidance from LPCB, WMC achieved this approval (BS8519 CAT3) for its range of heavy duty cables measuring just 7.9mm in diameter.

For fire resistant cables under 20mm, different stages of each test are carried out on different samples of cable, not

continuously on the same sample. As the call for mandatory sprinkler systems in taller buildings gathers momentum, it becomes even more concerning that smaller fire-resistant cables, especially those under 20mm, may not survive fire, water, and direct impact –a potential fire scenario. This has resulted in too many cables being classed as fire resistant that may not be adequate in the event of a fire, as the tests don’t completely represent real-world conditions.

In an era of greater accountability, there should be no compromise. We can no longer aim for minimum compliance to get the job done. A higher classification of cables would help people in positions of responsibility identify fire resistant cables which can survive, rather than simply resist fire.

It is for that reason that we have been calling for more stringent testing standards with the introduction of a higher classification of fire-survival cable, for those which can continue to power critical circuits in the event of a fire and withstand the rigours of safety systems such as falling debris, collapsing walls, fire hoses or even activation of high-pressure sprinklers and smoke extraction.

WATCH A VIDEO OF WMC’S FIRE RESISTANT CABLES

UNDERGOING FIRE TESTING AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAK030

“In order to meet the requirements of a fireresistant cable, they must meet the British Standard appropriate to their type of fire-resistant cable”

FIRE PROTECTION FOR CRITICALCABLING

BS 7671 refers to EN 61386 for flexible conduit performance requirements, including fire. However, this standard for conduit systems only addresses non-flame propagation (self-extinguishing) – and no other fire performance properties (enhanced flame retardancy, smoke and toxic fume emission) are included.

This can lead to a potentially dangerous situation where cables can be laid in flexible conduit that, by its standard, only needs to clarify if it is self-extinguishing and may not offer a comprehensive level of fire performance.

Traditionally, halogen-free conduits have been specified, often based on the common misconception that they offer comprehensive fire protection performance. With an array of differing standards in place, operators should ensure that their cable protection meets all low fire hazard criteria requirements.

Meeting low fire hazard specification

For a product to be classified as low fire hazard, it must display four clearly defined characteristics: it must be highly flame retardant, have low smoke emission, low toxic fumes and be halogen-free.

All metal conduit systems are inherently low fire hazard as there is no plastic to burn, however most conduit systems are now plastic coated or all plastic, so their performance needs to be assessed.

Flame retardancy

First, a supplier must be able to demonstrate appropriate flame

retardancy. Flammability – the measure of how difficult it is to ignite the conduit if it is exposed to a heat source –is often cited here. The minimum requirement is that the product is self-extinguishing, according to conduit system standard EN 61386.

To assess how flame retardant a material is, the normal test method is to measure the Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) according to BS EN ISO 4589-2. This determines the percentage of oxygen that needs to be present to support combustion. The higher the LOI

percentage, the greater the flame retardancy of the material.

Low smoke emission

If the conduit is involved in a fire, the smoke generated may obscure the vision of people trying to escape, or the firefighters trying to extinguish the flames. The flexible conduit specified should provide superior protection if this scenario occurs, to ensure occupants are afforded sufficient time to exit the building safely.

There are a number of fire tests, where a specified sample of material is burnt under controlled conditions in a given size smoke chamber and the smoke obscuration of a defined beam of light is measured.

Low toxicity

To test for toxicity, a specified sample of material is burnt under controlled conditions in a chamber and the fumes

are analysed for various gases. The concentration of each gas is then multiplied by its toxic potency to give a toxicity index. If halogens, sulphur or phosphorus are present in a material, it is unlikely to pass the low toxicity tests.

Halogen-free

As mentioned, one of the main misconceptions is that a halogen-free material is automatically a low fire hazard product. The fact remains that a material cannot be considered as low fire hazard if it contains halogen, but as we have learnt,

without the accompanying low toxicity, low smoke and flame-retardant properties, it will not meet the full criteria.

Typical halogens are fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine. Chlorine is the most common in PVC, fluorine is present in fluoro-polymers and bromine appears in flame retardants. All of them produce highly toxic fumes and thick smoke if exposed to a naked flame; another reason why operators may have tended to rate this area of performance above other fire hazard properties.

In conclusion

With so many areas to consider when assessing fire performance, it is important to work with a competent manufacturer or specifier. Specifying based on price alone, or by using standards that do not take all aspects of fire performance into account, could leave vital infrastructure vulnerable to failure.

Operators should expect their chosen supplier to be able to provide detailed evidence of the material properties, and the tests that have been conducted to ensure that all four criteria are met and that critical performance factors are maintained.

BROWSE

LONDON’S CALLING

London Luton Airport continues to grow in popularity, hosting 18 million passengers in 2019 alone. In 2018, Luton Rising announced that a joint venture between VolkerFitzpatrick and Kier Infrastructure would begin construction work on the Direct Air-Rail Transit (Luton DART).

Reducing traffic around Luton, and the journey between central London and the airport to around 30 minutes by the fastest trains, the ambitious project is a 2.2km state-of-the-art cable-hauled rail system that links the airport terminal and Luton Airport Parkway train station.

An experienced contractor in rail and transport applications, the appointed M&E contractor, NG Bailey, required cable management systems for the two stations to withstand frequent passenger transfers. Having specified Legrand previously for similar projects, the contractor selected systems from its cable management business unit for use throughout the station.

Variety of needs

As with most transport applications, there were different types of cable management that would be required for the project. In the stations, cable trays and ladders were required through the front of house and platform areas, as well as the dedicated maintenance area. Typical of transport applications, underfloor duct trunking was required for cabling to the ticket barriers and Salamandre IP55 rated trunking in areas where water and debris ingress are likely to cause issues.

With such an eagerly awaited project, NG Bailey was under pressure to install the M&E solutions to tight deadlines for this phase of the project to be finished by December 2021, ahead of opening in 2022. Working with its trusted wholesalers, the contractor chose Legrand’s Salamandre IP4X and IP55 trunking, Swifts cable ladder and screed floor trunking for the project.

Thomas Gray, Project Engineer at NG Bailey, explains: “The specified Legrand solutions were familiar systems for us. Thanks to a strong rapport with our wholesalers, in addition to technical assistance and discussions with Legrand’s dedicated teams, we were able to get a regular supply of materials to complete the job quickly.”

We learn more about the challenges that a recent airport passenger transfer system expansion created, and how the use of quality cable management products helped to overcome these.

Bespoke requirements

One of the challenges of the project was the need for bespoke trunking for both the ticket gates and the station platforms. In addition, design requirements can alter once a project of this nature is in its building stage and obstacles arise, meaning a flexible approach was required.

Paul Moore, Area Development Manager at Legrand, says: “Bespoke systems are often needed on rail projects, as they each offer unique characteristics. This is particularly the case with trunking, as they need to maintain the required capacity, while meeting the design parameters which often change from the original plans once on-site.

“In this instance, Salamandre IP55 trunking was required for the gate lines at each terminal, an ingress protection rating that is often needed for areas more susceptible to debris and corrosion. With required IP ratings available and the ability to produce exact measurements of trunking, our team’s extensive rail expertise and experience meant we could provide exactly what the project required.”

Quality assurance matters

With NG Bailey’s pedigree in the rail field, the specified building services must pass the stringent quality assessments when the project is handed over to ensure the installation exceeds expectation in terms of its life expectancy. For this reason, the contractor has to ensure consistency within the quality of solutions they integrate, and so often use the same suppliers for elements like cable management systems.

Thomas explains: “We tend to see Legrand cable management systems specified by our senior buyer team because it is known to be able to pass our tests before handing projects over. Legrand’s products are tried and tested within rail applications and we know that we can quickly and easily get all the systems in place to the standard that is expected.”

With a multitude of cable management requirements to fulfil, NG Bailey was able to work with Legrand to install suitable systems across the entire Luton DART transport system.

IS SURFACE WIRING ONTREND?

As our industry continues to keep pace with innovative technologies, it’s notable how interior design trends have, in recent years, introduced more surface installations. Aside from minimal fuss, often in back-to-basic settings, with no space for cavity walls, the surface option can save hassle and time. There’s also the reduced risk of curious critters gnawing insulation, or the shock of a misplaced picture nail.

To cater to this need, cable management ranges have required a focus on developing solutions for the modern designer –a challenge taken up by D-Line.

Get in the saddle

A good example is D-Line saddles, which need only one screw-fixing and will become virtually invisible thanks to a ‘Wrap & Lock’ design that holds the conduit tightly. Compared to traditional saddles, installation time is approximately halved as a sleek and streamlined appearance is achieved.

If it’s a smooth wall you’re tackling, the D-Line ½-round trunking can give conduit a decent run for its money. No saddles are needed, bends are quicker to install, and cabling is easier to route.

Installers can use the self-adhesive tape to position the length, then secure D-Line U-clips and D-fix screws before routing the cables. You simply snap the click-lock lid shut, then clip-on any bends or tees to give a BS7671 compliant installation that is quick to install and looks great. White D-Line trunking provides the option of being painted, while D-Line’s black and metallic-finishes can provide a striking feature.

THEVALUE PROPOSITION

When I first joined CMD 12 years ago, most of my day-to-day customer contact was with M&E consultants. It was they who specified the power distribution systems for the projects we were involved in so the contractors – the vital link in the chain –were often not involved in discussions with us where we could provide valuable technical, practical and commercial insight.

Over the past decade, that situation has changed considerably. Although we still work closely with consultants and wholesalers, contractors are taking an increasingly active role in determining the specification and selecting products that aid speed and ease of installation, along with performance and compliance.

As a result, CMD is engaging with electrical contractors more than ever. And our goal is to add value wherever possible to help deliver positive outcomes for our customers’ projects and their businesses.

Supply chain reliability

As a UK manufacturer of power distribution systems, one of the biggest ways in which CMD has been able to add

value for electrical contractors over the past couple of years is supply chain reliability. We understand that procurement issues not only have the potential to create delays on-site, but can also have a knock-on effect on the whole programme, which could result in penalties and the loss of repeat projects.

Our solution to this is to take an agile approach to manufacturing, aligned to market demand, helping us to supply distributors quickly and work with electrical wholesalers who keep substantial quantities of our Betatrak powertrack and Power Hub power distribution systems in stock.

To build on this focus, we’ve recently launched a 48-hour rapid ordering service for the CMD Betatrak system. Designed to help electrical contractors hit the ground running on-site as soon as they win a contract, this innovative service enables customers to order up to 50 lengths of Standard or Clean Earth (C/E) low noise

Betatrak, along with up to 25 feed units and 10 flexible corner kits, within 48-hours of an approved purchase order. The service includes delivery scheduling to a nominated address, which enables dispatch straight to site if required.

One of the reasons we’ve launched the 48-hour rapid ordering service is that we know that start on-site is often required very quickly after the project is given the green light. We’re also very aware of the disruption caused by supply chain delays and price volatility, both of which have been a lasting legacy of the pandemic.

At CMD, we’re also doing everything we can to reduce electrical contractors’ exposure to cost risk. Alongside our efforts to ensure supply chain resilience, we’re committed to clarity on pricing. We’re working with electrical contractors to manage the risk of price volatility, with a ‘procure and call off’ service. This enables customers to fix the project price of their electrical distribution system when a

Paul Allen, National Sales Manager (Power Distribution) at CMD, discusses how the company works with electrical contractors to add value to the procurement and installation process –from project win to completion on-site.

contract is won and ordered, the product can be manufactured and despatched in line with the project program on a floor-by-floor call off basis.

Troubleshooting and technical support

At CMD, our sales teams aren’t encouraged to take a hard sell approach to winning projects; instead ours is a consultative sell that adds value by providing technical knowledge and practical solutions to aid compliant and cost-effective installations that are easier to deliver.

Our technical expertise means that we can sense-check customers’ requirements, flag any compliance issues and suggest how these can be rectified. We can also identify any value engineering opportunities that could help the electrical contractor to reduce material costs, or make any improvements that could reduce labour costs.

We not only provide this added value expertise at specification and procurement stage, but also during project delivery. Available for troubleshooting advice throughout the programme, we know that the unexpected can happen, when the client changes the scope after the job has already started on-site, for example, or when site conditions aren’t as expected. Part of our service as a supplier is to help customers find practical solutions to any issues they may encounter, keeping project delivery on track.

Building on loyalty

CMD is fortunate to have a very loyal customer base amongst electrical contractors of all sizes, because our power distribution systems offer both UK-manufactured quality assurance and value for money. With our focus on service added into the mix, it’s a winning combination.

PREMATURE COLLAPSE OF WIRING SYSTEMS

Jake Green, Technical Engagement Manager at Scolmore Group, considers the general requirements of Regulation 521.10.202.

After several tragedies, Regulation 521.11.201 (AMD 3 BS 7671: 2008) was introduced; its purpose being to limit the risk to firefighters from entanglement by cables when they entered or exited a premises.

This regulation has now been renumbered as 521.10.202 but remains essentially the same, except for the removal of any reference to escape routes. It now reads: “Wiring systems shall be supported such that they will not be liable to premature collapse in the event of a fire.”

This requirement shouldn’t be confused with the recommendations of standards like BS 5266-1 (emergency lighting) and BS 5839-1 (fire detection and fire alarm systems), which recommend methods of cable support to maintain circuit integrity during a fire.

Escape routes and BS 7671

The original regulation referred to escape routes, and this generated some confusion: ‘How should escape route be defined?’

BS 7671 defined escape routes differently to that used in other guides, regulations, and legislation. For example:

● BS 7671 – ‘Path to follow for access to a safe area in the event of an emergency’.

● Building standards technical handbook – ‘… means a route by which a person may reach a place of safety…’

● Approved Document B in England and

Wales – ‘… that part which a person has to traverse before reaching either the safety of a final exit or the comparative safety of a protected escape route…’

The removal of ‘escape routes’ from the regulation now means that it applies to ALL areas of the installation.

Premature collapse

There is no specific definition of ‘premature collapse’ to be found in Part 2 of BS 7671. One dictionary definition of ‘premature’ is, ‘occurring or done before the usual or proper time; too early’.

Since the purpose of Regulation 521.10.202 isn’t to maintain the critical signal path, rather to limit the risk to firefighters, premature collapse should be considered in relation to that single purpose.

Electrical contractors and network installers are not best able to judge how fires behave, the likely temperatures that will be attained, nor how firefighters will carry out their role within a premises that is on fire. It is important therefore, that electrical professionals give due consideration to the support given to wiring systems to provide maximum reasonable application of Regulation 521.10.202.

Unicrimp offers a comprehensive range of cable accessories within its Q-Fire fire-rated range that are designed to provide the necessary protection from premature collapse.

There is a great deal of responsibility placed on contractors to apply Regulation 521.10.202, not because they want to meet minimum expectations, rather because they want to protect firefighters.

An electrical contractor should consider, as a minimum, the following:

● Wall fixings

● Careful consideration should be given to the mass of the wiring system that is to be supported (including the trunking, cable tray, etc. with the cables in-situ).

● Will the structure of the building maintain sufficient fire resistance to permit cables to avoid the need for metallic supports? Will such supports be sufficient if firefighters damage ceilings when applying water?

● Cable clips – metallic clips are essential as indicated by Note 3 and 4 of Regulation 521.10.202.

● Brackets or internal clips for PVC trunking – to keep the lid or cables in place (see Note 3 of Regulation 521.10.202).

BROWSE THE FULL

BEST PRACTICE,BESTPRODUCTS

In 2006, we launched the LINIAN FireClip, the original single component fire-rated fixing, invented by my dad, Wes. Since then, our ranges have continued to expand.

We now offer over 135 products manufactured here in the UK for the electrical, fire/security and fibre markets. But for us, it’s about more than products.

We continually look for ways to drive the industry forward by promoting best practices in legislation, manufacturing and installation. One of the ways we plan to do this is through a new webinar series.

Our company’s mission is to solve industry challenges, reduce inefficiencies and raise safety and compliance standards across the board. We hope the legacy of LINIAN products and our family’s advocacy work will be increased safety awareness across the industry and the prevention of unnecessary loss of lives.

How are we doing this?

We recognise that other options are available on the market and making the best, informed, and compliant choice can be confusing. That’s why we recently launched a new, improved website (www.linianclip.co.uk), making it easier for installers to find information and choose the right LINIAN product to suit any installation.

We’re also bringing back our popular webinars in a new format – a monthly series. The webinar series covers critical industry topics such as 18th Edition (Amendment 2), and risk-assessment to prevent premature collapse of cables. Plus, popular industry trends and developments, such as the rising importance of aesthetics in cable installations, are also covered.

Participants receive a certificate of attendance, demonstrating their commitment to learning and development.

Advocating for the industry

I think it’s fair to say that my family and I are fairly well known and (at least I hope) well regarded in the industry. I’m not shy about speaking out about the issues I

care about. In the past, I’ve also spoken out when I’ve felt that regulations didn’t go far enough. For example, the BS7671 18th Edition regulations, Amendment 2 (BS 7671:2018+A2:2022) state that ALL cables at risk must be supported to prevent premature collapse, not just those in escape routes.

This was a significant update because, previously, some installers thought it was fine to just secure cables above doorways or fire exits with metal fixings and then use plastic fixings elsewhere. This wasn’t good enough! An escape route isn’t just a door or a hallway; you must cross a room to get there.

And don’t get me started on using unregulated imported clips, either! Thankfully, that practice appears to be declining, and there is a much better awareness of the importance of using fire-rated fixings throughout the installation.

Promoting best practices

We want installers to know that a safe installation doesn’t have to be costly. We can help you do the best job, with the best products, for the best value.

LINIAN clips are a fully compliant solution for cables and conduit from 0.9mm – 25mm overall diameter. They also save significant labour time, as no additional plugs, screws, washers, or special tools are needed. Instead, simply drill a hole, slide the clip over the cable or conduit and tap it in. It’s as easy as that!

When you consider how much time this saves, you’ll realise that it is actually better value to use these types of clips on ALL your cables than to mess around with multiple types of fixings across different substrates.

Ian Arbuckle, CEO at LINIAN, discusses the company’s new webinar series and the work it is doing to promote best practice across the wider industry.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: LINIAN FIRECLIP

What is the LINIAN FireClip? LINIAN FireClip is a single-component fire-rated cable fixing, for round cables, and PVC trunking. It is a quick and tidy fixing to suit any round cables from 4mm to 14mm.

How does it work?

To install, simply drill a hole, slide the clip over the cable/conduit, and insert it into the hole. No plugs, screws or washers are needed!

Why should you choose the LINIAN FireClip?

FireClips can save the installer time and money, and they can even save lives. With LINIAN FireClips, you’re guaranteed a quick, easy and compliant installation with an incredibly neat, discreet finish. The FireClip is available in an extensive range of sizes and colours to perfectly blend in with the cable.

Is it 18th Edition compliant?

Yes! The FireClip is 18th Edition compliant and tested to the highest standards, including 90 & 120 minute fire-resistance, meeting BSi and DIN classifications. It has also been tested to London Underground Standards for smoke emissions and can support a tensile load of over 24kg.

How quick is it to install a FireClip?

LINIAN FireClips are up to 72% faster to install than traditional methods. The FireClip is also available in double sizes, to conveniently install two cables side-by-side, saving even more installation time.

WINA £500+

the HIKMICRO Pocket2 is equipped with a high-resolution HIKMCIRO VOx detector, an 8MP optical camera, and a 3.5" LCD touchscreen. It helps you quickly and efficiently locate hidden problems and accurately measure the temperature of faults. Thewide temperature range of -4°F –752°F is ideal for building inspection, HVAC, electrical, and mechanical equipment maintenance. The 25 Hz frame rate keeps up with fast inspections, and the Wi-Fi functionality allows the Pocket2 to share images in real-time.

The Pocket2 is a powerful thermography tool that fits right in your pocket, so it is always there whenever you need it!

ATOOLORDER

Do you have the right tools to help you work with cables? We discover more about three C.K Tools solutions that could fit the bill.

SPIRA-FLEX DRAW TAPE

Designed for longer, smoother, quicker cable installations, C.K Tools’ innovative Spira-Flex Draw Tape is a major advancement in draw tape technology. Made from an advanced polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material with a helical profile, it significantly reduces frictional resistance and minimises snagging for longer, smoother runs.

BLUE STEEL

C.K Tools has introduced five new SKUs to its blue Steel impact drill bits range. The range extension includes a number of C.K Tools’ most popular impact drill bits but now available in trade pack sizes, reducing the need for wholesaler trips in the middle of jobs. The Blue Steel impact drill bits are manufactured from specially formulated V8 steel alloy for extreme toughness and extended working life. They also feature torsion control technology to withstand the stresses of high torque applications and are colour-coded to aid with easy identification in any tool bag or work environment.

STEP

Match the Blue Steel impact drill bit to the machine head

Insert the Blue Steel impact drill bit into the impact driver and test the chuck to ensure no looseness

Fix the conduit clip into the pre-drilled wall, allowing the impact drill bits to use their torsion control technology to establish the securest

STEP

Attach the Spira-Flex to the cable using electrical tape or a cable tie

Feed the cable through the conduit – add a bend to the cable if intending to cable around corners of conduit

Ensure the cable exits the conduit cleanly with no snags to the outer casing of the cable or exposed wiring

MULTI CUTTER

The C.K Tools Multi Cutter has a heavy-duty aluminium body, which is both strong and light for ease of use. Its razor-sharp stainless-steel blade uses a lever action for effortless cutting of PVC conduit, blue water mains, plastic pipe, rubber hose, pneumatic pipe, electrical sleeving, wooden dowel etc. With five interchangeable anvils (flat, double radius, single radius, 90 square and mitre) it enables a variety of cross sections to be cut, both straight and mitred, for all shapes and sizes of cabling jobs.

STEP

STEP

Select anvil attachment

Ensure

With more electricians working on renewable energy installations such as air source heat pumps, solar photovoltaic panels and solar thermal, HellermannTyton has identified the need for better cable management and identification solutions.

Featured as part of the newly launched HellermannTyton catalogue, the range includes the following innovations:

Loop Cable Markers

A first for the cable marking industry, the UV-resistant loop cable markers do not require cable ties, saving customers a significant amount of time and money as well as minimising plastic waste.

Up to this point much of the industry only offered cable marking solutions with cable ties for the sole use of pre-assembly, whereas HellermannTyton’s new loop cable markers can be used for post-assembly and have a recess built-in to enable the use of cable ties if desired.

As part of HellermannTyton’s expansion into the renewables industry, the loop cable markers are specifically

IN WITH THE RENEW

designed for applications where cables are continuously exposed to UV light such as within solar plants, or for use with air source heat pumps.

They’re also suitable for any indoor or outdoor applications requiring identification including maintenance, assembly, test and inspection, electrical, mechanical engineering, and panel building.

FCT UV

This enhanced UV-resistant conduit is used to route and protect wiring externally –from solar installations to PV power plants.

The FCT UV is manufactured using UV stabilised PA6 Nylon in black, designed with the highest UV resistance capabilities and has a minimum of 25 years of UV protection in northern hemisphere conditions. Created halogen-free, the product is lightweight and flexible, intended to protect cables from external exposure and crush damage.

Heavy Duty Spiral Binding

As well as UV-resistant products, HellermannTyton also develops solutions to support the efficiency and durability of the heavy-duty systems found in wind

turbines. Most recently, it has launched a heavy-duty, high-performance spiral binding range to protect and prevent damage to cables and hydraulic hoses.

With mechanical abrasion and crush strength resistant properties, the spiral binding can extend operational lifespan and significantly reduce maintenance costs by offering protection against the extreme weather conditions of offshore wind turbines to help prevent cable friction and torsion.

A catalogue of solutions

Ahead of its exhibition at Solar & Storage Live this month, HellermannTyton has announced the expansion of its UV-resistant product range. Here, we take a look at some of the portfolio’s leading lights. AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAK040

HellermannTyton has just launched its new catalogue, which showcases the entire product range, including Fastening and Fixings, Identification, Electrical, Installation & Protection and Application Tooling. Electricians can use the catalogue’s QR Codes and digital wishlists to save items or find out find out more about their favourite products.

Idon’t know about you, but I can’t say I’ve ever been a fan of data. Small wires and big fingers just do not mix well together in my world. Thankfully, however, a tonic has arrived in the form of the FT-45 Unshielded Kit from Ideal Industries.

The kit comprises a crimping tool, the Data T-Cutter (with curved blades designed to keep the cable impedance (Ω) consistent during connector to cable termination), a ringing tool (stripper), 50 x Cat 6 connectors and 50 x Cat 5 connectors, all contained in a robust plastic box which can also house the various modular plugs you might need. The kit is compatible with other

FISH TAPES

Tuff-Grip Pro Fish Tape comes with a large, comfortable ergonomically-designed handle which allows the user to grasp from the top or side, and can be used with gloves. Users can choose between three options for the fish tape material: Blued Steel – stiffer for long runs, Zoom – 19strands of stainless steel, or Volt-Guard – non-conductive to 1,000V.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAK042

connectors too, including shielded and large diameter plugs.

The ringing tool has two removable cartridges –the blue one is for stripping of UTP/twisted pair cable and the grey for coaxial cables. The design of the modular plugs is quite remarkable in that it permits the wire in the data cable to pass right through the plug and the crimping tool has both A and B type wiring patterns clearly marked, allowing the installer to easily check that the cores have been arranged in the correct sequence –not crossed over or folded back. During the crimping process the excess cable is sliced off, leaving a perfectly formed modular plug.

If you undertake any tasks involving coaxial cable the ringing tool makes short work of preparing the end, leaving ¼” of conductor exposed and ¼” of shielding exposed. The Ideal Industries range of crimp, compression and twist on connectors will then make a sound connection.

Given the very reasonable price-point of this kit, it really is a ‘must have’ tool set for those who are going to be doing more than just the odd bit of data installation.

YELLOW 77

Pulling cable and wire through conduit and ducting without damaging the cable? Yellow 77 is the perfect general purpose wax based lubricant as it significantly reduces friction and makes the pull easier with less chance of cable damage.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAK043

DATA T-CUTTER

This product features curved blades which minimise cable deformation when cutting multi-pair cables up to 12.7mm/0.500”and coaxial cable up to RG-9/U. The unit’s blade cutting capabilities make it suited to soft cable (not ACSR) and steel reinforced centre conductors can be trimmed with bolt cutting holes. Spring loaded handles ensure less effort when cutting repeatedly, while a locking latch keeps the tool closed in its pouch to protect blade edges.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAK044 AND SAVE LIKENEVER BEFORE!”

GET DETAILS THE IDEAL KIT

Pete ‘Monty’ Monfort, Director of Arena Training Centre and Monty reviews the Ideal FT-45 FOR ELECTRICIANS

A leading supplier of commercial and domestic lighting systems has improved product electrical safety testing after investment in new HAL LED end of line production testers from Seaward.

Dublin-based ROBUS is involved in the design, import and distribution of an extensive range of Class I and Class II fittings, which include LED High Bay/Low Bay, strip lighting, flood and street lighting, lamps and emergency lighting.

With distribution operations in the UK, Australia, China, France, Benelux, South Africa, New Zealand and the Middle East, the company currently services over 3,000 stockists and tens of thousands of installers.

After investing in the two HAL LED testers in 2020, the firm, which worked closely with Seaward on specification and system set-up, has developed an effective regime across nine workstations. This has secured optimum electrical test performance and ensures every fitting works safely and complies with CE, EMC, RoHS and REACH among other EU/UK standards.

The move to HALs has improved the speed and accuracy of product safety checks and flash testing carried out by the quality control and conversions department, reflecting the benefits the testers bring to improved quality control, said Catherine Reid, customised conversions manager who has responsibility for electrical safety testing.

ROBUS uses the HALs at its Dublin facility, verifying the electrical safety of 900 units per week before they leave the factory gates, primarily destined for markets in the UK and Ireland.

Every fitting is fully tested as part of extensive quality control procedures that see the HAL LED provide power measurement readings with a resolution of 0.2VA below 1000VA and performs continuity and ground/earth bond tests alongside AC/DC Hipot (FLASH/Dielectric

Strength). This ensures products can guarantee the quality, performance and reliability required and are safety compliant with EN 60598.

Function testing is also undertaken to check units switch on/off effectively and perform correctly at the required power consumption levels and that any ancillary equipment operates in accordance with technical specifications.

The company has also invested in the Safety E-Base Software, Seaward Barcode CCD scanner, Seaward Desk Test ‘n’ Tag Label printer and Status Beacon (HAL Series) as part of a comprehensive package of electrical safety testing solutions from Seaward.

Manufacturers like ROBUS can complete end-of-line tests with the additional benefit of functionality testing of the operation of the equipment, ensuring not only a safe product, but consistent quality control throughout the production process. testing at ROBUS

Test results are stored automatically by the HALs, providing full traceability, ensuring that all products are proven to be quality assured before they leave the premises. ROBUS’s Dublin operation is able to then use the data to maintain a safety test record for all its units in the event of any damage during distribution, or to track and trace any product returns, in line with its quality control policies.

ESP hits the sweet spot

Having lain empty for more than a decade, a large, double-fronted property on Stone High Street in Staffordshire has been refurbished, repurposed and reopened as a chocolate shop.

As part of the five-month refurbishment project, ‘Chocbox’ business owners John Holmberg and Kay Woods were keen to ensure the new premises, staff and valuable contents were well protected, turning to ESP to provide the security system.

Martyn Walley, Managing Director of Hide, the electrical contracting firm hired to undertake the security installation, looked to his experience from working with ESP security products to provide the best solution.

ESP’s HDView 5MP IP 8 channel CCTV system, along with eight cameras, was installed to provide full protection around the exterior of the premises as well as inside the shop to cover all areas of stock and the tills.

The CCTV system installed is part of ESP’s IP POE CCTV range which is designed to offer superior, reliable and straightforward installation solutions for a range of applications –from domestic through to larger and more complex commercial projects.

There are two distinct IP ranges available –the HDView IP 5 Megapixel range used at Chocbox, which is aimed at larger applications with a wide choice of NVR and camera selection –and the REKOR IP 2 Megapixel range which is tailored for the domestic market.

All NVRs are packed with features, such as remote monitoring via the ESP View App, H265 compression, and motion record activation. They’re also supplied with quality surveillance hard drives for added peace of mind.

BROWSE ESP CCTV KIT RANGE

XCITE

FRD MINI CC

The lightweight, compact FRD MINI CC offers you the very best in flexibility for your next commercial or residential job. The colour temperature (CCTK) of the fire-rated downlight is manually adjustable via a simple 3-way selector switch (3000K, 4000K, 6000K) and the FRD Mini CC allows contractors to choose the style that suits the space at installation. Using an easy-fit connector for fast fitting, all units can be plugged in, checked and the right colour temperature selected before final install. With push fit connectors, wiring of each fitting takes seconds, and with a one-size-fits-all luminaire, the speed of install for a job is substantially increased. For further improved customisation, the FRD MINI CC is available with a tilt version. This provides enhanced flexibility, including vertical downward illumination in areas with vaulted ceilings. The tilt version is also IP65 rated from below, making it ideal for showers and wet rooms. The FRD MINI CC is 30, 60 and 90 minute fire rated with solid timber joists and 30 minute rated with Staircraft I-Joists.

SNICKERS WORKWEAR Hi Vis Garments

As workplace visibility decreases and the potential for accidents increase, Snickers Workwear high visibility garments work hard to protect your wellbeing and safety on-site. The extensive range of jackets, trousers, shorts, tool vests, shirts and fleeces all work together to satisfy the requirements of Class 1, 2 and 3 protection levels. The products combine Snickers’ hallmarks for protective wear with the requirements of the EN 20471 standard for high visibility warning clothes. With advanced designs and sustainable SORONA fabrics, all these working clothes have durable, colour-fast protection retaining shape and comfort throughout the life of the garments. Added to which, all Snickers Hi Vis garments can be custom profiled to ensure ‘stand out’ coverage for your corporate brand.

BG ELECTRICAL

SyncEV Electric Vehicle Chargers

Packed with ‘smart’ technology, BG SyncEV charging stations are the perfect solution for electric vehicle charging at home and the workplace. The units comply with all electric vehicle smart charge point regulations and offer quick and easy installation, along with UK-based technical support.

Full ‘smart’ functionality is offered via the ev.energy (residential) and SyncEV (commercial) Apps, while configurable charging up to 7.4 kW (32A) is available, as well as optional dynamic charging. The integrated open PEN conductor protection ensures that no earth rod is required and the units off unparalleled safety through the inclusion of integrated type A 30mA RCD with 6mA DC protection. Five standard models are available in the range – 3 x socket and 2 x tethered units – and the compact size makes this range one of the smallest solutions on the market.

CONSORT CLAUDGEN

Consort Connect App

Consort Claudgen has launched the Consort Connect App, allowing users to have complete control over their heating remotely via their smartphone or tablet. The App is free and downloadable from Google Play or Apple Store and can control Consort’s Wi-Fi enabled heaters and SL heaters connected to an SLPBWIFI wireless controller. It gives quick access to four operating modes and provides a seven-day timer with 24 heating periods per day. It is easy to set-up and users can configure the settings of all connected heaters on the App as well as viewing the energy consumption statistics. Other features include a lock function, open window tracking and response capability, and custom automations. Additionally, the SLPBWIFI controller and Consort heaters with Wi-Fi and occupancy sensor have a self-learning control ability which utilises occupancy and temperature sensors.

DOWNLOAD

Fast release penetrant is a for all toolbags

If you’ve reached for a can of WD-40 to help free up a seized bolt or two, and let’s face it, most who make a living from their skilled trade do so on a daily basis, then adding a can of WD-40’s Fast Release Penetrant alongside a can of Contact Cleaner on your next order is a must.

Contact Cleaner speaks for itself. It’s fast drying qualities ensure the non-conductive spray can be used on most electrical components including sensitive electrical boards. Its ability to remove dirt, dust, flux residue and chase away condensation (even in damp conditions) ensures an efficient contact.

Penetrant, on the other hand, takes freeing-up seized items to a whole new level of speed and efficiency.

Sitting alongside Contact Cleaner within the company’s nine-product Specialist range developed for professionals, it has the ability to penetrate deep into crevices, threads and seams to effectively break the bonds that seize parts together. The product is safe to use on metals, alloys and most rubbers and plastics to free-up anything from the usual challenges brought on by nuts, bolts, screws, fixings and seized mechanisms to hoses and bearings.

A great example of the product’s direct benefits for electricians can be seen on those occasions where you’re faced with a battle to gain entry into an external fuse box because the locks have been corroded. Penetrant makes light work of the

challenge which can all too often result in stripped heads or sheared off locking handles!

When tackling seized items it is best to liberally soak the troubled area, leave for a few minutes for the solution to work its magic and then gently work at the part, a process that can take a couple of attempts.

GRAB A FREE SAMPLE!

As part of its latest product marketing campaign, WD-40 has launched a free Penetrant sample giveaway. Check the WD-40 website for more details on how to obtain your free product. WD-40 WWW.RDR.LINK/EAK052

NVC LIGHTING

Pro Lighting Range

NVC is renaming its higher specification LED lighting solutions ‘Contractor’ range to become ‘Pro’. This portfolio of products includes panels, surface and suspended luminaires and industrial bulkheads as well as emergency lighting and batteries, all of which come with a seven-year warranty and offer sophisticated dimming and colour control options. The Pro range includes enhanced products and additional controls with plans to extend the offering further with the same focus on quality and reliability. While NVC’s Pro solutions will still meet the needs of electrical contractors and installers, they will also satisfy the requirements of a wider audience of professionals who are increasingly influential in product selection in medium and larger commercial and industrial projects as well as public sector work.

ELUCIAN

Modular Contactors

Scolmore continues to expand its Elucian consumer unit range to provide electricians with the broadest possible range of units and protectives devices to cater for all installation requirements. New to Elucian is a range of 2 Pole (20A) or 4 Pole (25A, 40A and 63A) Modular Contactors in a variety of Normally Open or Normally Closed contact configurations compatible with the Elucian range of consumer units. The new Elucian 2 Pole 20A Modular Contactors are 18mm width and will take up one space/way inside a consumer unit. The Elucian 4 Pole 25A Modular Contactors are 36mm width and will take up two spaces/ways inside a consumer unit, whereas the Elucian 4 Pole 40A and 63A Modular Contactors are 54mm width and will take up three spaces/ways inside a consumer unit.

The multi-coloured LED display will flash in a different sequence of colours to identify the fault. With the ability to identify eight statuses, the device will instantly detect if a Series Arc, Parallel Arc, Overvoltage, Residual Current Fault, Overload, Short Circuit, AFDD failure or manual trip has occurred, saving time and improving diagnostic ability.

In-situ software upgrades

The latest AFDD device from Hager contains a microprocessor which runs a sophisticated algorithm, continuously checking the circuits for any indication of an arc fault. Whilst the extensive testing program provides a stable platform for today, it is possible that an electrical goods manufacturer of tomorrow may create an electrical device with a different waveform signature, thus creating a new signature for the Arc Fault Device and causing the device to trip.

With ProTools and the in-situ software upgrades, Hager is able to modify the algorithm to accommodate new product signatures. These updates can be sent directly to installers’ mobile devices, via the Hager Pilot App, allowing them to connect to the AFDD through Bluetooth technology and perform a software upgrade. This changes the game, and uniquely eliminates the need to physically remove the device from the board, providing a quick and efficient resolution to any nuisance tripping.

RCBO & MCB configurations

The single module wide device will be available in both RCBO/AFDD and MCB/AFDD configurations and will be offered with Hager’s exclusive ProTools diagnostic software.

Extensive testing

Benefitting from extensive field trials to guarantee best in class performance, Hager’s single module AFDD will provide installers with the ‘fit and forget’ reassurance they have come to expect from Hager products. Utilising existing feedback from over 5,000 two-module-wide units, Hager has further developed its algorithm following an additional field trial with 300 single module devices offering real-life feedback from these installations.

LUCECO LIGHTING

Titan 2.0 Highbay

The new Titan 2.0 UFO style highbay offers an increased performance 145llm/cW ensuring reflectors no longer need to be added to installations. With its die-cast aluminium housing, the unit is now supplied with a choice of 120, 90 or 60˚ beam angles. The range is dust and weatherproof up to IP65 and is supplied prewired with an IP68 waterproof connector. Offering several wattages over two body sizes, the Titan 2.0 highbay is the perfect choice for any industrial installation.

FIREANGEL

Battery Powered CO Alarms

FireAngel has launched a new range of battery powered CO alarms, which comply with the latest EN 50291-2:2018 standard.

Featuring ten-year sealed for life lithium batteries and supplied with a five-year warranty, the FireAngel FA3328 and FA3820 battery powered CO alarms contain electrochemical sensing technology that provides an accurate and proven method of sensing carbon monoxide, in line with the latest requirements. The alarms’ low level monitoring function contains an intelligent sensor that increases its sensing rate for detection of low levels of CO, in line with the new informative annex in EN 50291-2:2018. This reduces health risks of CO poisoning from constant low CO concentrations, whilst simultaneously preventing the build-up of dangerous levels of CO, by detecting levels as low as 10ppm. The cost-effective and efficient alarms also provide rapid alerts to dangerous CO levels. Both alarms are supplied with three LEDs that provide clear indication of different conditions and faults to simplify the user experience, whilst the prominent visual alarm notification LED heartbeat intensity also automatically reduces at night time.

the team at Velocity Pro Gear has worked alongside respected electrician and online ‘influencer’ Nick Bundy to create two fantastic new on-site storage solutions for trades professionals. And the good news for PE readers is that both products are up for grabs this month, as part of three special Stealth prize bundles.

Stealth NB 100

The new Stealth NB 100 bag features a small lightweight design for storing those essential hand tools that are used every day –from second fixing and EICRs to fuse board replacements. The NB 100 can also be used by other trades as a quick ‘Grab & Go’ service tool bag.

Stealth NB Printer Bag

The NB-L1 is a compact label printer bag designed to house all essential items such as label cartridges, charging cables and label makers in one convenient, compact zipper pouch. YOURSELF AGREAT PRIZE! have three fantastic prize bundles to be won!

HOW TO ENTER

TO ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW TO WIN ONE OF THREE VELOCITY PRO GEAR PRIZE BUNDLES, SIMPLY FILL OUT THE CONTACT FORM AT:

TIMEGUARD

Energy Saving

LED Floodlights

Compact, controllable, complete systems: outdoor lighting doesn’t get any more convenient than this.

Timeguard has upgraded the popular LED100/200 series of LED Energy Saving PIR Floodlights with even more benefits and features. With a compact design, greater lumen output and Timeguard’s Fast-Fix pin connection for quick installation, the new LED100/200E range is a quality choice for new and existing installations. Available in black or white to suit any décor, a slave terminal and parallel switching facility mean these powerful devices can be the control hub of a larger lighting system.

MARTINDALE ELECTRIC Socket Testers

Offering electricians and maintenance personnel confidence and peace of mind, the Martindale CP501 classic check plug is a quick and easy way to ensure that 13A sockets are correctly wired. Featuring three bright long-life LEDs, wiring faults are indicated by one of the LEDs failing to illuminate, with the pattern of lit LEDs indicating the type of fault detected. This fail-safe system means that any LED not lit indicates a fault. The fault condition can be easily identified from the list of most common faults clearly displayed on the front of the label. With the added benefit of an audible sounder to confirm that the wiring is correct, the Martindale BZ101 offers an ideal alternative choice for checking sockets that are not easily visible or in difficult to access locations.

SCOLMORE Safety Lampholders

KNIPEX

Tool Cases & Kits Brochure

KNIPEX has launched a new downloadable brochure featuring its much sought-after tool cases and kits. The brochure looks at the stylish range which features five models, each offering a myriad of configurations and options and an ideal balance between an attractive design and plenty of storage space. The KNIPEX tool cases have a sturdy construction and offer compact dimensions, as well as being light in weight. They are tailored to the many different needs of tradespeople and are available in a wide range of sizes and versions. The brochure also features full tool kits designed for each trade, with cases crammed full of quality KNIPEX tools.

DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE

Scolmore has added new safety lampholders to its Click wiring accessories range. A B22d safety pendant and batten have been designed and manufactured by the company with the aim of keeping the user safe from electrical shocks. The J-slot mechanism has the ability to disconnect power to the plungers when the lamp is removed. This will prevent the risk of electric shock when removing or installing lamps. When there is no lamp inserted the electrical connection is isolated to the lampholder contacts. When a BC/B22 lamp is inserted into the lampholder and secured in the J-Slots, the electrical connection to the contacts and lamp is restored. The new range comprises 9” and 6” T2 BC ceiling safety pendant sets and a T2BC loop-in batten safety lampholder with straight skirt.

UNICRIMP

Grommet Strip Edge Trim Rolls

Unicrimp has added a brand new product to its Q-Crimp fixings range – with Grommet Strip Edge Trim Rolls now part of the collection. An essential piece of kit for consumer unit installation, the premium Grommet Strips are flexible and durable and are designed to protect cables from sharp and abrasive metal edges. They provide installers with a perfect solution for rewires and board changes. Unicrimp’s heavy duty Grommet Strip Trim Roll is available in black and in 3m and 5m lengths and can be easily cut to the required size.

GET PRODUCTS DETAILS

GET PRODUCT DETAILS

ROBUS MACAU Flexi Strip

The MACAU flexi strip utilises Chip-On-Board (COB) technology which creates a smooth continuous line of light. COB is an innovative technology whereby the LED diode is mounted directly onto the printed circuit board. The biggest benefit to this is that unlike regular flexi strips, no dots are visible. The strip illuminates a smooth stream of light from start to finish, which is more attractive to the human eye. This makes the product ideal for applications where you don’t necessarily want to see the dots, such as staircases, under cabinets and walk-in wardrobes. Other benefits of the product include a high CRI rating (90), adaptability thanks to the 3M adhesive tape included on the strip, 3000K or 4000K variants available, as well as IP20 and IP65 options.

TOUGHBUILT QuickSet Work Bench

Capable of supporting an evenly laid load of up to 455kg (1,000lbs) in weight, the ToughBuilt QuickSet Work Bench can be set up with exceptional speed and efficiency to create a rock-solid, ultra-practical workspace. It employs a unique and intelligently designed mechanism which allows its robust steel legs to be deployed and locked into position in seconds, simply with a button push and a pull of a handle. After use, the legs can be retracted with equal expediency and ease using the same method, and the Work Bench can be transported with its easy-carry handle. As well as being strong, the new ToughBuilt QuickSet Work Bench is also smart. Its surface bristles with well-thought-out features designed to simplify life for users and to boost their productivity. This includes multiple 20mm holes and clamping slots along with integrated quick reference measurement markings in centimetres, inches and degrees.

Improve you IQ with intelligent lighting system

All LED has announced the introduction of the IQ Intelligent Lighting Control System.

At the cutting edge of lighting control, this innovative system allows users to retain control of everything smart at their fingertips without having to rewire. Quite literally, the system allows you to keep all the light switches in a room, while making all your lighting smart. Users benefit from IoT technology, without the intangible fear that some can experience when buying such a system. Programming is a two-minute job, and handover is a piece-of-cake.

The dimmers on offer have an intelligent dimming card that detects what type of load is on the secondary side and automatically adjusts to stabilise any LED load and the system meshes to execute commands seamlessly.

Programming the units can be accessed via the light switches, power and remote controls if needed, so physical access to the units isn’t required. Using Amazon’s Alexa as the main hub allows users the opportunity to use any other devices and integrate third party devices no matter the brand.

All LED’s aim is to offer a powerful retrofit system that is easy to use and, most importantly, one that isn’t locked to a single App. The devices can make use of “IF, THEN” functions and have simple automation built into them, yet users can override the modules using just the light switches if required.

Applications include assisted living (users can use voice control as well as light switches), commercial (staff can operate switches when needed but lights can be automated for energy saving), domestic, industrial and hospitality (smooth dimming transitioning and automation for restaurants), DALI and 0/1-10V installations. If you choose to, you can even control your lights from the Bahamas.

The innovative range boasts a smart junction box (relay and dimmer), backbox module (relay and dimmer which fits in a 35mm box), 5-in-1 LED strip controller, remote controls, load stabiliser, wall station, door and window contact and a DALI/0/1-10V signal generator for commercial and industrial automation.

LINCHR H-Series EV Chargers

With the launch of LINCHR’s latest product, H-series, specially designed for the UK and other European countries, installers have a product that covers a variety of scenarios, including residential, business and commercial applications. Offering a compact size, the unit is easy to install and can be handled with just one hand. It features built-in PEN fault protection, which saves installation time and ensures safe grounding. For the end user, the product features on the government’s Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles grant, offering various start-up modes, an RFID card, and a free App (which can adjust charging current). Load balancing technology automatically ensures the safety of electricity consumption and avoids tripping out, while the solar matching function saves electricity bills and protects the environment. Additionally, off-peak charging can be set up through the free App, charging when the electricity price is low, and helping to reduce electricity bills further.

BG ELECTRICAL Storm Weatherproof Sockets

BG’s Storm Weatherproof range has now been improved to offer contractors an easier-to-install product and enhanced usability and peace of mind for end-users.

Fast-fix 150° screw-turn covers replace traditional screws for easier installation, while a quick release front plate with ¼ turn screws aids installers further. A patented cable entry prevents accidental opening of the cover and redesigned paddles with smoother operation are included for easier overall use. The range is available in both WiFi extender and Smart versions.

Schneider Electric has announced the launch of the Acti9 Active Safety System, the latest in the Acti9 range of safety system controls offering a digitally enhanced connected system with complete visibility at final distribution.

The next generation of Acti9 Active, which features the hybrid Acti9 Active arc fault distribution board (AFDD), brings an innovative addition to the Acti9 Isobar P range of distribution boards, incorporating efficiency, safety, and best-in-class connectivity compliant with the latest wiring regulations BS7671 18th Edition Amendment 2.

Through alarms and pre-alarms, the Acti9 Active Safety System alerts and protects against electrical faults, providing electricians with the ability to detect a fault and work efficiently and safely to fix it.

The Active Safety System consists of three elements that simplify what would be a complex connected system:

• Acti9 Active device and Hybrid distribution board – a single 36mm device that acts as an Active all-in-one breaker offering enhanced visibility and greater protection from arc-fault related fires

• EcoStruxure Panel Server – the gateway allowing the connectivity down to the final circuit in the distribution board

• EcoStruxure Power Monitoring Expert – the software platform that enables electricians to easily view the information coming from the distribution board at final circuit levels

Safety first with Acti9 Active System ACTi9 ACTIVE WWW.RDR.LINK/EAK072

Historically, energy meters were used in distribution boards to show an aggregated view of multiple circuits. However, the Acti9 Active Safety System’s total integration of circuit protection, gateway, and software mean that, for the first time, enhanced visibility is available at the final circuit level.

This allows electricians to be one step ahead of the electrical system so they can proactively address potential faults and issues before they occur. Furthermore, the level of information provided by the Acti9 Active improves operational resilience and reduces overall downtime for the electrical system.

By having complete visibility of what is happening within the system itself, electricians and building owners have unprecedented control, allowing them to make informed decisions to achieve their energy efficiency goals and make changes to support their sustainability journeys.

Are you missing the ROBUS LINX?

ROBUS LINX is a self-healing smart lighting control system designed to automate your lighting system in commercial spaces. It can be installed in new builds or retrofit to existing lights using a range of smart drivers, controllers, and power monitors in combination with a ‘zigbee’ wireless self-healing mesh that is scalable across any size building.

The ROBUS LINX system provides several benefits to commercial spaces, including:

Energy Management: You can monitor energy usage and complete status reporting on-site or off-site across one building or an entire network for enhanced energy efficiency and building security.

Lighting Automation: ROBUS LINX is compatible with Bacnet for BMS integration. As it is a lighting automation system, it can adapt and grow with the commercial space by adding additional ‘hubs’ to increase the capacity of the network with plug and play simplicity. The device is designed to self-configure meaning the system automatically adds additional devices to the network without manual configuration, saving labour and time.

Lighting Status Monitoring: The system allows for continuous monitoring of light fittings and devices, providing alerts if they need attention.

Wireless Control: It is now easy to change control functionality with no-rewiring required. The system allows for wireless lighting control and configuration. Using the associated LINX App, the end user can control their LINX lighting system via web browser, tablet, phone or desktop from anywhere in the world.

Furthermore, an electrician or installer can easily install the system with no additional training. The hardware arrives on-site, is installed and paired by the electrician and ROBUS will then commission/support remotely so when the lights are switched on everything works exactly as specified.

CAUGHT ON

C AM E RA

SOCIAL SNAPS!

MEPHISTOPHELES: Who thought this would be a good idea…?

PETE DAKIN: A client asked me to carry out an EICR, but what she didn’t tell me was that I’d require a plumber at the same time!

STEVE HEPWORTH: One of the worst sockets I’ve ‘unearthed’ whilst carrying out an EICR on a house previously owned by a DIY-er!

DAF POOLE: While connecting a shed supply to another consumer unit I found this… It was serving an electric boiler and the terminals hadn’t been tightened on one of the MCBs!

T DARBY ELECTRICAL: Here’s one we found last week…

Here is a useful summary of all the adverts that appear in this issue of Professional Electrician. Each is listed with its page number and a direct URL that will get you straight to the relevant online information.

ALL LED Ltd ......................................................................................page 21 www.rdr.link/EAK100

BG Electrical Ltd ............................................................................page 53 www.rdr.link/EAK101

Carlisle Brass Ltd ..........................................................................page 40 www.rdr.link/EAK102

Carl Kammerling International Ltd ..........................................page 69 www.rdr.link/EAK103

CEENorm U.K. Ltd ..........................................................................page 61 www.rdr.link/EAK104

CEENorm U.K. Ltd ........................................................................page 89 www.rdr.link/EAK105

CHAUVIN ARNOUX UK Ltd ......................................................page 66 www.rdr.link/EAK106

Chint Europe (UK) Ltd ..................................................................page 32 www.rdr.link/EAK107

Consort Equipment Products Ltd ............................................page 83 www.rdr.link/EAK108

C-TEC Ltd ........................................................................................page 63 www.rdr.link/EAK109

C-TEC Ltd ........................................................................................page 86 www.rdr.link/EAK110

Deta Electrical Company Ltd ......................................................page 15 www.rdr.link/EAK111

Electrorad U.K. Ltd ..........................................................................page 11 www.rdr.link/EAK112

ELEX ..................................................................................................page 78 www.rdr.link/EAK113

Elite Security Products Ltd ........................................................page 86 www.rdr.link/EAK114

Evec Ltd ............................................................................................page 99 www.rdr.link/EAK115

Fergus ..............................................................................................page 62 www.rdr.link/EAK116

Forum Lighting Solutions ..........................................inside front cover www.rdr.link/EAK117

Hager Ltd ........................................................................................page 30 www.rdr.link/EAK118

Hamilton Litestat ..........................................................................page 43 www.rdr.link/EAK119

Heatstore ........................................................................inside back cover www.rdr.link/EAK120

Hensel Electric UK Ltd ................................................................page 83 www.rdr.link/EAK121

HIKMICRO ........................................................................................page 49 www.rdr.link/EAK122

IDEAL INDUSTRIES EMEA ..........................................................page 65 www.rdr.link/EAK123

LED Group ........................................................................................page 42 www.rdr.link/EAK124

Lewden Ltd ......................................................................................page 62 www.rdr.link/EAK125

LINIAN Supply Co. Ltd ..................................................................page 77 www.rdr.link/EAK126

Linkcharging Technology Company Ltd ................................page 31 www.rdr.link/EAK127

Live Electrical Distribution UK Ltd ..............................................page 4 www.rdr.link/EAK128

Megger Ltd ......................................................................................page 18 www.rdr.link/EAK129

Metrel UK Ltd ..................................................................................page 28 www.rdr.link/EAK130

NAPIT ................................................................................................page 25 www.rdr.link/EAK131

NICEIC ..............................................................................................page 58 www.rdr.link/EAK132

Niglon Ltd................................................................................pages 44, 45 www.rdr.link/EAK133

NVC Lighting ..................................................................................page 57 www.rdr.link/EAK134

Ovia Lighting ..................................................................................page 58 www.rdr.link/EAK135

Prefect Controls Ltd ....................................................................page 92 www.rdr.link/EAK136

Pro Certs Software ......................................................................page 103 www.rdr.link/EAK137 rdr.link ..............................................................................................page 101 www.rdr.link/EAK138

Rolec Services Ltd ........................................................................page 95 www.rdr.link/EAK139

Saxby Lighting ................................................................................page 37 www.rdr.link/EAK140

Schneider Electric ....................................................................pages 6, 7 www.rdr.link/EAK141

Scolmore International Ltd ........................................................page 66 www.rdr.link/EAK142

Seaward Electronic Ltd ................................................................page 22 www.rdr.link/EAK143

S.E.C Solutions Ltd ......................................................................page 103 www.rdr.link/EAK144

Selectric ............................................................................................page 73 www.rdr.link/EAK145

Sevadis ..............................................................................................page 54 www.rdr.link/EAK146

Siegenia Group ..............................................................................page 91 www.rdr.link/EAK147

Stiebel Eltron UK Ltd ....................................................................page 92 www.rdr.link/EAK148

Tamlite Lighting ............................................................................page 50 www.rdr.link/EAK149

Tesco Mobile Ltd ............................................................................page 12 www.rdr.link/EAK150

The Electrical Academy ..............................................................page 101 www.rdr.link/EAK151

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)........page 89 www.rdr.link/EAK152

Timeguard Ltd ................................................................................page 46 www.rdr.link/EAK153

UNICRIMP Ltd ................................................................................page 92 www.rdr.link/EAK154

V-TAC UK Ltd ............................................................outside back cover www.rdr.link/EAK155

WD-40 Company Ltd ......................................................................page 8 www.rdr.link/EAK156

Wise Controls ................................................................................page 103 www.rdr.link/EAK157

WISKA UK Ltd ................................................................................page 85 www.rdr.link/EAK158

www.professional-electrician.com ........................................page 103 www.rdr.link/EAK159

Zzeus Training Ltd ........................................................................page 38 www.rdr.link/EAK160