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Editor ’s Viewpoint
Construction ‘Excellence’ Colleges offer foundation
for the future
The government’s recent announcement of 10 new Construction Technical Excellence Colleges, set to train 40,000 construction workers, could prove to be one of the most significant boosts to our industry in years.
For electricians – whether you’ve been on the tools for decades or you’re just starting out – this isn’t just good news, it’s a potential turning point
For too long, the UK’s skills pipeline in construction has been running under capacity A recent government survey confirmed what many of us have felt on the ground: fewer firms are investing in training, with the proportion dropping from 57% in 2011 to just 49% in 2024. That’s not just a statistic – it’s a clear sign of an industry in danger of starving itself of the skilled people it needs to thrive
Electrical professionals know this better than most The demand for skilled electricians continues to outpace supply, especially as Net-Zero targets drive installation of solar PV, EV charging, heat pumps, and smart energy systems
The new colleges – spread strategically across the regions – are poised to be hubs where this new generation of electrical talent can be nurtured
The plan is ambitious: a £100 million investment to train tens of thousands of builders, bricklayers, electricians, carpenters, and plumbers by 2029, in addition to the 60,000 workers targeted in a separate initiative
For the electrical sector, this means a deeper pool of trained apprentices, a stronger base of technical knowledge, and –crucially – more opportunities for existing electricians to upskill in emerging technologies
What makes this different from past initiatives is not just the scale, but the integration with local economies From Derby to Sunderland, Wigan to Exeter, these
are not anonymous training centres – they are established colleges with community roots, now being equipped to deliver cutting-edge industry training For young people in those areas, it removes a major barrier: the need to travel long distances or relocate just to get a start in the trade
For employers, the benefits could be transformative A stronger, better-trained intake means less time spent patching gaps in basic skills and more time focusing on the higher-value work that grows businesses
The push to “reduce reliance on foreign labour” is politically loaded, but from an industry perspective, it’s about building resilience in our own workforce and creating a sustainable skills pipeline that isn’t vulnerable to immigration policy shifts
Of course, training is only half the battle Retaining new starters means making sure their first years in the trade are rewarding and that they can see a career path – not just a job That’s where electrical firms have a role to play: by offering meaningful apprenticeships, mentorship, and exposure to the breadth of our trade, from traditional wiring to cutting-edge renewable technologies
This initiative isn’t a magic bullet, but it’s a rare piece of joined-up thinking in a sector that often gets piecemeal attention from policymakers If delivered properly, these colleges could be the launchpads for thousands of new electrical careers, a boost for businesses struggling to recruit, and a vital step toward meeting the UK’s infrastructure and housing targets.
For the electrical profession, the current is flowing in the right direction The question now is whether we’re ready to connect to the supply
SELECT urges public to check IDs after notorious conman is jailed
Scotland’s largest construction trade association, SELECT, has urged the public to always check identification before allowing tradespeople into their home following the jailing of a serial fraudster who posed as an electrician to target the elderly.
The campaigning body issued the reminder after 64-year-old Robert Markward was sentenced to nine years in prison for a string of crimes across Ayrshire between December 2022 and March 2023, including tricking vulnerable victims into letting him into their homes
Markward, who has more than 100 offences on his record dating back to the 1980s, was found guilty of defrauding and stealing from nine victims, some in their nineties, by pretending to be a nurse, handyman and electrician
Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, said: “Sadly, there are criminals who will use any disguise to gain access to people’s homes – including pretending to be qualified electricians
“We’re reminding householders to
WAGO launches £20,000 prize giveaway
WAGO UK & Ireland is excited to announce the launch of a major campaign for electricians, offering participants the chance to win from a £20,000 prize pool through a limited-time promotion on its WAGOBOX PRO.
Electricians who purchase 10-packs of the WAGOBOX PRO (Product code: 207-3323/K000-0010) could discover a green or grey ticket inside – with each ticket unlocking a high-value prize
The amazing prizes on offer include:
● Green ticket: The ‘ultimate’ games room kit – Includes a WAGO-branded
pool table, dartboard, 75” TV, beer pump, and beer fridge
● Dark grey tickets: Family trip to Disneyland Paris – A four-night adventure for four people
● Medium grey tickets: Tool bundle –Professional-grade tools to power
Drayton invests in new training van
Drayton has unveiled its new state-of-the-art mobile training van that will embark on a tour across the country this year.
The purpose-built van will offer valuable training opportunities on Drayton’s wide range of products, including the best-selling Digistat range, popular valves range and Wiser smart heating control
With all of this and more stocked on
board with interactive displays, installers can catch live product demonstrations from Drayton’s technical experts, who will be on hand to provide guidance on products, support with queries and offer best-practice advice for industry professionals visiting the training van
Plus, there will be the opportunity for installers to take part in competitions and other exciting initiatives at wholesalers up and down the UK
always check that visitors are who they say they are, particularly if they claim to be a tradesperson. This includes asking to see their ECS Grade Card or similar official form of identification that proves they are a qualified electrician.
“A genuine and fully qualified electrotechnical professional will never object to showing you their credentials –in fact, they’ll be proud to do so ”
your work worth £1,000+
● Light grey tickets: Van alarm bundle – Top-tier van and tool security system worth £200+
Last month, the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) celebrated EIC Day, marking the anniversary of its founding
This year’s celebrations were extra special, celebrating 120 years of EIC supporting the people in our industry through life’s challenges.
EIC Day honoured the incredible journey that began with ten pioneers, each contributing £10 to help those in need within the electrical industry – a marker that just £10 can make a whole lot of difference to those in need That’s why EIC asked its supporters to participate in its “Power of Ten” campaign
The EIC would like to thank every
individual who showed their support and got involved by entering the £10 raffle, donating, and completing their own challenges
This support has meant that the organisation can continue to offer vital services to anyone in our industry who needs help
The proceeds raised from the #Powerof Ten campaign allows EIC to provide vital support services to struggling families, essential training and upskilling for industry workers and apprentices, mental health support for colleagues who have fallen on dark times, and so much more
Staying “ALIVE” with Martindale safe isolation campaign
Martindale Electric has unveiled a new campaign which aims to improve awareness of safe isolation best practice.
A number of leading sources working across the electrical industry report that injuries caused by electrical accidents are still all too prevalent.
Ensuring electrical equipment and circuits are dead is absolutely vital when it comes to the safeguarding of people and assets A robust safe isolation procedure is essential for helping to reduce the number of electricity-related injuries and fatalities within the workplace
Proving a circuit dead sounds relatively
simple, but establishing real confidence around the procedure and understanding exactly how to prove dead starts with a rigorous electrical safety process and a focus on safer working practices
Although EIC Day has been and gone, there’s still a few months left in the year to show support for the 120 Campaign and help EIC to reach its goal of raising £120,000
memorable acronym designed to help in an ongoing mission to safeguard workplaces
Isolation, locking off, labelling, and proving dead are all critical components, because they ensure both the safety of those working on the installation and other tradespeople or members of the public who might be on the premises
The recently launched Martindale “ALIVE” campaign creates a simple
Helpful, downloadable Martindale ALIVE resources, designed for FMs, H&S Managers and installers, are available on the campaign page from the company’s website
Ovia grows emergency lighting portfolio
Scolmore Group is delighted to announce that it has acquired the rights to distribute the Orbik emergency lighting brand.
A well-established and highly reputable brand, with a pedigree spanning more than 40 years, Orbik will sit under the Ovia umbrella and benefit from the same level of resources and expertise afforded to all companies that operate within the Scolmore Group, which, along with Ovia, currently includes Click, Elucian, ESP and Unicrimp
The acquisition marks a strategic move for Ovia, enhancing its capability to deliver
a comprehensive range of emergency lighting solutions for commercial, industrial, and residential sectors
Ovia has made a significant investment to enhance and develop the Orbik range and in doing so is reinforcing its commitment to delivering reliable, energy-efficient lighting for every application, including critical safety environments
All is rosey in Kew Gardens as Schneider announces partnership
Schneider Electric has announced a strategic partnership with Royal Botanic Gardens (RBG), Kew.
As Kew’s official Energy Sustainability Partner, Schneider Electric will play a critical role in helping the world-famous botanic gardens meet its goal to become climate positive by 2030.
Kew’s wild botanic garden based in Sussex
As part of the agreement, Schneider Electric will provide a dedicated energy optimisation engineer, located on-site and on long-term secondment to Kew, helping to:
The partnership will see Schneider Electric take a hands-on role, advising Kew on how to develop and deliver its comprehensive sustainability plan which includes transitioning away from fossil fuels, reducing carbon emissions, and optimising energy use across its historic and complex estate at both Kew Gardens and Wakehurst,
● Support Kew in evaluating the impact, cost, and priority of energy efficiency, controls, and monitoring projects,
● Identify, assess, and implement energy-saving opportunities within Kew’s Building Management Systems (BMS) and Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) plant,
Nottingham firm ‘sparks’ warning over unnecessary fuseboard bills
The company based in Chilwell, says it has seen a growing trend of customers being advised to replace plastic consumer units with metal ones, with many quoted four figures for the work
Tom Hughes, Managing Director at Aerocom UK, said: “We’ve seen cases, including one 83-year-old woman quoted £1,000 for a replacement, where the homeowner could have avoided that cost In many situations, a simple upgrade can improve safety without a full replacement.”
The company which supplies fire suppression devices to the NHS and Network Rail is urging homeowners to seek an EICR from a qualified electrician before agreeing to expensive work –and to consider preventative solutions like Aerocom’s MAUS Advanced Pro Stixx, the latest technology in fire safety
The Advanced Pro Stixx is a compact, zero-pressure fire suppression device, no bigger than a two-finger KitKat, that sits inside the consumer unit, right where electrical fires often begin
If the temperature inside rises above 170°C, it automatically releases a harmless potassium-based smoke, extinguishing the fire in seconds.
The device can be installed quickly, costs a fraction of a replacement unit, and has been independently tested and CE marked for fire safety
CAI partners with Nextivity to empower AV professionals
CAI, the Association of Audio Visual Professionals, has announced a strategic partnership with Nextivity, a global leader in intelligent cellular booster technology
This new alliance will equip CAI members with access to cutting-edge CEL-FI cellular solutions, expanding their service capabilities and enabling them to meet the rising demand for robust in-building mobile connectivity
Under the partnership, CAI and Nextivity will collaborate to deliver training, certification, and support tailored for AV professionals seeking to integrate cellular signal enhancement into their service portfolios
The initiative also includes access to
Nextivity’s installer and reseller programs, joint webinars, product demonstrations, and co-branded marketing resources
Peter Sealey, CAI Chairman and Senior Executive, commented: “CAI is committed to helping our members stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving AV and connectivity landscape
“Partnering with Nextivity gives CAI members access to proven, carrier-grade technology that enhances the value of AV installations across all sectors.”
CEL-FI systems from Nextivity use proprietary IntelliBoost technology to deliver the highest levels of gain and coverage in the industry, making them ideal for AV professionals working in
residential, commercial, educational, and enterprise environments.
The partnership reflects the growing convergence between AV, IT, and mobility infrastructure, and CAI’s commitment to arming its members with the tools and knowledge needed to lead in an increasingly interconnected world
GET MORE DETAILS ON CAI MEMBERSHIP AND BENEFITS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR006
WIN A TRADE TUB BUNDLE!
Unicrimp is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a Trade Tub bundle.
Unicrimp continues to provide practical, quality solutions for electrical professionals with its Trade Tubs range Designed with the demands of the trade in mind, these robust, resealable tubs offer a convenient and reliable supply of commonly used fixings and accessories, helping to improve efficiency. Each Trade Tub contains a selection of essential components, supplied in durable containers, ideal for transportation, storage, and quick access during installation work
This month’s prize bundle consists of the following:
1. The Red Wall Plugs & Countersunk Screws Tub offers a practical combination of 400 x red wall plugs and 400 x 8 x 1.5” countersunk screws, ideal for general-purpose masonry fixings
2 Optimised for use in plasterboard applications, the Metal Self Drive Plugs & Panhead Screws Tub contains 200 x metal self-drive plugs and 200 x 8 x 35 mm panhead screws that eliminate the need for pre-drilling
3. The T&E Cable Clips Tub contains 400 x 1 mm and 400 x 2 5 mm T&E clips that have been manufactured with tough, impact-resistant plastic and pre-fitted with hardened steel nails, to ensure cables remain firmly fixed in position
4. Suitable for use in masonry and breezeblock, the First Fix Kit Tub comprises 100 x 20 mm open quick fit cable grommets, 100 x red wall plugs, and 400 x 8 x 1 5” countersunk screws –bringing together all the elements in one handy tub to make back box essential installs much easier for the contractor.
HOW TO ENTER
E TR A I N I N G G R O U N D
I have just taken on an apprentice. Is there anything I need to do around their AM2S/AM2D assessment and making them aware of this?
T h e a p p r e n t i c e s h i p p r o g r a m m e a s a w h o l e i s a
h o l i s t i c p r o c e s s
E v e n t h o u g h y o u r c o l l e g e o r t r a i n i n g p r o v i d e r h a s
a n i m p o r t a n t p a r t t o p l a y i n d e l i v e r i n g t h e
a p p r e n t i c e s h i p q u a l i f i c a t i o n , a s t h e e m p l o y e r i t ’s y o u r
r e s p o n s i b i l i t y t o e n s u r e t h e y g e t t h e f u l l r a n g e o f w o r k
e x p e r i e n c e a n d g e t p l e n t y o f c h a n c e s t o p r a c t i c e
v a r i o u s t a s k s u n d e r s u
Whilst the AM2 is the final step of the process, it’s in your interest to make sure they’re prepared so that it gives them the best possible chance of passing first time
There’s no reason why you shouldn’t always have this end goal in mind throughout the whole of the apprenticeship and make sure they’re developing all the skills they need for the assessment
The most useful point of reference is the AM2S/AM2D Checklist on the NET website, which lists all the skills needed for the assessment, and the systems and equipment they’ll be tested on.
Use the checklist as a working document throughout their apprenticeship and ensure they get some real-world experience of all of these areas
Between yourself and your training provider, ensure that each category of the checklist is covered and look at how to address any gaps
Areas like inspection and testing are often where apprentices fall short due to lack of on-site experience before they attend the AM2
As their employer, you’re in a position to support and reassure them – many of you will have sat an AM2 at the start of your career and will know what to expect
Most importantly, direct them to the NET website for all the resources they need and ensure they gain skills and confidence in all areas of the checklist before they sit the assessment
As the electric heating sector continues to evolve at a fast pace, the team at Rointe explains why the new ONYX high-heat retention heater is setting new standards in smart electric storage heating.
SWITCH ON TO ONYX
As energy efficiency, user control and intelligent performance take centre stage, traditional storage heaters are falling behind Rointe’s latest high heat retention storage heater isn’t just a new product –it’s a game-changer!
With industry-leading thermal retention, built-in WiFi control, and adaptive inverter technology, ONYX has been engineered to meet the real demands of modern heating installations – and make life easier for the professionals behind them
Unmatched heat retention, lower energy use
What makes ONYX truly stand out is its 60% heat retention capacity – the highest in its class While conventional storage heaters begin losing energy almost immediately after charging, ONYX retains stored heat for up to 16 hours That means less reliance on boost heating and a significantly lower energy footprint.
In practical terms, ONYX delivers up to 37% energy savings compared to standard models, offering your clients long-term reductions on energy bills while enhancing thermal comfort throughout the day
For installers, this is a major selling point: fewer complaints, greater
satisfaction, and a product that performs exactly as promised
Boosting EPC ratings with smarter heating
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has become a vital benchmark for UK properties, influencing market value, mortgage eligibility and rental compliance Improving a home’s EPC is no longer optional – and ONYX is one of the most effective solutions available.
Thanks to its ability to operate during off-peak hours, ONYX reduces the property’s primary energy demand, improving the SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) score Its high heat retention also means fewer top-ups and better thermal efficiency –both key metrics in EPC calculations
Importantly, ONYX includes programmable timers, thermostatic regulation, and open window detection –smart features recognised in EPC evaluations and required under LOT20 regulations. Unlike traditional direct-acting
radiators, ONYX is classified as a smart storage heater with favourable assumptions in SAP modelling
For property owners and installers, this makes ONYX a smart, low-disruption upgrade that can raise a rating from E to C or even B – helping meet the Future Homes Standard, Part L requirements, and the UK’s Net Zero 2050 goals
Smart connectivity without the hassle
One of the biggest advantages of ONYX is how easy it is to install and connect
Thanks to its WiFi Direct technology, there’s no need for additional hubs or gateways – the heater connects straight
to the network, reducing set-up time and simplifying the set-up process
Once connected, end users can control their heating through the Rointe NEXA App This intuitive platform lets them schedule programs, monitor energy usage, adjust settings in real time and even release stored heat on demand – all from their smartphone
The App also includes AI-based automation that learns from user behaviour to optimise energy consumption, as well as geolocation features that automatically adjust heating based on the user’s location – ensuring comfort when it’s needed and savings when it’s not
From an installer’s perspective, this level of remote functionality means fewer callouts, easier troubleshooting and more efficient handover to clients
Intelligent inverter tech that thinks ahead ONYX also includes Rointe’s Smart Adaptive Technology, which uses a built-in inverter to automatically adjust fan speed and heat output based on room conditions This avoids the abrupt on/off cycles of older storage heaters, delivering smooth, consistent warmth – and even greater efficiency
For installers, it’s another level of reassurance: a product that adapts, self-regulates, and exceeds customer expectations for comfort and performance
A smarter generation of heating products
Beyond ONYX, Rointe’s recent product launches mark a major step forward in intelligent electric heating. This new generation of products is designed not only to maximise efficiency and comfort, but also to give installers, contractors and end-users access to smarter tools, greater control, and simpler decisions
With this updated range, Rointe introduces several meaningful improvements across the board:
Consistent comfort
The majority of products in the new range avoid traditional ON/OFF cycles, instead delivering continuous, even heat that adapts to the needs of the space.
Stable temperatures
Rooms stay warm without the usual spikes and drops, offering enhanced comfort and better energy management
LST-compliant safety
All new radiator models regulate both air and surface temperature, with the option to limit exterior warmth – ideal for settings where safety is key
● Higher stock turnover and fewer obsolete products for wholesalers
● Optimised storage – reducing up to 15% of space required for Rointe stock
At the same time, the use of INVERTER SMART ADAPTIVE TECH ensures each product contributes to lower energy consumption and reduced carbon emissions, supporting environmental goals in every installation
Celebrating 40 years of smarter heating
In 2025, Rointe is celebrating 40 years of innovation in electric heating
Key App features include:
● AI-based learning and geolocation for adaptive scheduling
● Night Mode and Away Mode for intelligent efficiency
● Real-time usage tracking and remote output control (up to -30%)
● Unified control for entire installations, ensuring a seamless user experience
Driving sustainability and simplicity
Rointe’s latest range update was also designed with stockists and professionals in mind A leaner catalogue offers:
● Simpler, faster purchasing decisions for consumers
This milestone is marked by the launch of a new generation of products from radiators and towel rails to storage heaters, water heaters, underfloor heating and thermostats.
Built on four decades of expertise, this new range represents the evolution of intelligent, efficient, and sustainable heating solutions designed to meet the real-world needs of professionals and end users alike
Dani Putney, Head of Standards at NICEIC, explores the UK’s solar roadmap and the path to Net-Zero.
GRID EXPECTATIONS
Back in June, the UK government unveiled its long-awaited Solar Roadmap –its strategy to support solar energy deployment across the country
It is one piece of the UK’s broader Clean Power Action Plan, aiming to deliver a decarbonised electricity system by 2035 and achieve Net-Zero emissions by 2050
For both householders and companies invested in electrification and sustainability, this roadmap signals a shift in how the UK will generate, distribute, and consume energy in the coming decades
The roadmap sets out a clear ambition: to quadruple solar capacity to 70 GW by 2035, up from around 15 GW in 2024 This scale-up is essential to meet the growing demand for clean electricity driven by the electrification of transport, heating, and industry
Solar is uniquely positioned to support this transition, given its speed of deployment, improving cost structures, and the fact that it can be integrated at all scales – from rooftop panels on homes and business premises to large-scale solar farms
Key pillars of the roadmap
The roadmap outlines over 70 actions across five strategic pillars
1. Grid modernisation
One of the most significant barriers to solar deployment has been the complexity and delays in connecting to the electricity grid The roadmap commits to:
● streamlining grid connection processes through reforms and digitalisation
● prioritising solar in grid investment planning
● supporting flexible technologies like battery storage to maximise solar output
2. Rooftop solar
The government aims to unlock the potential of rooftop solar on homes, schools, warehouses, and public buildings. Key actions include:
● mandating solar readiness in new buildings
● simplifying planning rules and permitting processes
● launching a national campaign to raise awareness and drive adoption
3. Skills and workforce
Meeting the 70 GW target will require a highly skilled workforce and the necessary training opportunities The roadmap includes:
● a national solar skills plan to train thousands of new workers
● partnerships with colleges and training providers
This presents a major opportunity for new
job creation and economic growth in green industries, as well as the opportunity for those with experience in related sectors to upskill in solar
4. Community engagement
● Transparent engagement processes with local communities
● Case studies and myth-busting to address common misconceptions about solar
5. Resilient supply chain
● Building a resilient, diverse, and ethical supply chain
● Supporting domestic manufacturing and innovation.
Solar and electrification
The solar roadmap is deeply intertwined with the UK’s electrification goals As more sectors switch from fossil fuels to electricity, especially large scale and energy intensive sectors such as transport and heating, the demand for clean power will continue to rise. Solar will be central to meeting this demand without increasing emissions
By expanding solar capacity and integrating it with smart grids and storage, the UK is hoping to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, enhance energy security and resilience and, ultimately, lower electricity costs for consumers and businesses
The government’s decision to set a clear policy pathway will ensure the environment for innovation and investment in the sector has the stability it needs for long-term decision making
What this means for business
Businesses across the energy, construction, manufacturing, and technology sectors have a critical role to play in delivery With clear policy direction and growing market demand, the solar sector could see sustained growth, particularly in the development and deployment of rooftop, commercial, and utility-scale solar.
Looking ahead
The publication of the UK’s Solar Roadmap provides much-needed clarity and direction for the solar sector For electrical contractors and solar installers, it signals a stable and supportive policy environment that will underpin long-term investment and workforce development
With a clear commitment to expanding rooftop solar, modernising grid infrastructure, and addressing skills gaps, the roadmap is set to create positive conditions for businesses to scale their operations and contribute meaningfully to
the UK’s clean energy transition.
As demand for solar installations grows, building a skilled and competent workforce will be critical NICEIC offers dedicated solar PV training to support professionals in gaining the expertise required to meet industry standards and deliver high-quality installations
For businesses currently working on renewables or looking to expand, The NICEIC MCS Approved Contractor Scheme can help you demonstrate that your business is competent to design, install and commission low carbon technologies such as solar PV, heat pumps and electrical energy storage systems
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT NICEIC’S SOLAR PV TRAINING AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR065
GET MORE DETAILS ON THE NICEIC MCS APPROVED CONTRACTOR SCHEME AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR066
A HOT COUPL
QHow did the collaboration with Vaillant UK first come about, and what made the brand the right partner for Hager in this space?
Our UK-based technical support line was getting a lot of questions from electricians in the field regarding the correct requirements for Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) circuit protection
On one complex project we ended up discussing the performance of the system with Vaillant UK directly and things started from there
It was clear from a very early stage that there were a lot of similarities between the two brands For a start, we’re both family owned, plus we have a fantastic culture, can boast extensive manufacturing in the UK, and can lay claim to being leaders in our respective fields
Importantly, both brands have a clear commitment to quality, training and support for installers It’s fantastic to have a partner that has the same beliefs and is fully committed to the same goal as ourselves.
QIn practical terms, how does this partnership make life easier for electricians and ASHP installers compared to sourcing separate components?
There was a clear message from our customers that they were confused and
concerned with the lack of consistency in the industry on the correct requirements. Fuelled by numerous interpretations and incorrect understandings, our electricians were looking for clarity, direction and information on this subject
The commitment and testing both companies put in place to deliver this ensures that the electrician and ASHP installer now have a simple, straightforward “fit and forget” solution for ASHPs Fully tested and certified, with the assurance that is needed with such complex issues
QBeyond
Hot on the heels of the announcement that Hager and Vaillant UK are collaborating to develop and launch dedicated Type B HP RCD consumer units, designed for Vaillant UK’s range of air source heat pumps (ASHPs), we put a few ‘burning’ questions to Ian Smith, Hager UK’s Country Marketing Leader.
As such, we’re already working together on some very exciting new product developments for the future
this product launch, how closely are Hager and Vaillant UK aligning their long-term strategies around the electrification of heating and renewable technologies?
As we mentioned earlier, the synergy between the two companies is very strong, which naturally leads us to talk about other areas where we can again work closer to provide better solutions
QWhat do you see as the biggest opportunities this partnership opens up in the UK heat pump market, and how do you expect it to shape installer confidence and homeowner adoption?
The biggest opportunity is the alignment of the requirements between ASHP engineers and electricians at the outset
With a clear solution now available, installers’ confidence can improve with
the assurance of what is required when it comes to the electrical part, which will probably be subcontracted out to one of their partners
This clarity and confidence provides homeowners with a solution where there are no hidden costs and there is peace of mind that the solution will be reliable and work first time, every time.
QDoyou anticipate extending this model of OEM collaboration beyond Vaillant UK, or are there plans for deeper integration with Vaillant UK’s wider product range?
The current Vaillant UK solution is an exclusive OEM offer for the unique requirements of their most popular residential solutions
As both of our ranges scale to deal with higher capacities and loads, we fully anticipate bringing additional innovative solutions to the market that better support electricians and ASHP installers
As it stands, we’re working with
several other ASHP manufacturers to understand their specific system requirements and where we can potentially help them
QAreHager and Vaillant UK working jointly on installer education, training, or aftercare to ensure electricians can make the most of this integrated solution?
Absolutely Both companies’ training teams have already exchanged a lot of information and training materials and the overall aim is to ensure that each stakeholder knows the correct level of technical information and why it is so important
We’re clear in our stance that Hager will equip electricians with what they need to know and Vaillant UK will do the same for ASHP installers
Our online learning platform has seen a dramatic increase in the amount of completed courses in recent times, which shows that people clearly want to get a better understanding of this growing area
WIN A PENCIL WORK LIGHT!
Scangrip is giving three readers the chance to win a MAG PEN 3 pencil work light this month.
The slim and elegant MAG PEN 3 pencil work light from Scangrip is a ‘must have’ tool for every electrician – always sharp and always at hand!
The MAG PEN 3 provides a powerful illumination, both from the lamp head and precision top light, while a side switch ensures easy single-handed switch on/off operation
Featuring a sturdy rubber surface and a durable construction with a comfortable grip, the unit’s design is compact, allowing access in the most inaccessible places
Features and benefits at a glance:
● Rechargeable LED pencil work light providing 150 lumen
● Stepless dimmer function in the range of 10% to 100%.
ASK
Are You the RAMBO or JASON BOURNE of Emergency Lighting?
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Are You the RAMBO or JASON BOURNE of Emergency Lighting?
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It’s easy to assume all emergency lights are the same and stick to the old reliables – standard bulkheads or brick-lights. And you know why: they’re familiar, cheap, and compact. Which is fine… if you’re Rambo – storming in with heavy-duty gear, blasting everything in sight.
It’s easy to assume all emergency lights are the same and stick to the old reliables – standard bulkheads or brick-lights. And you know why: they’re familiar, cheap, and compact. Which is fine… if you’re Rambo – storming in with heavy-duty gear, blasting everything in sight.
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But in emergency lighting, brute force often misses the mark. These fittings are rarely designed for compliant or effective coverage. Assuming a 500Lm light is automatically better than a 200Lm one is misleading. In reality, beam control matters more than raw output. That’s why it pays to think more like Jason Bourne – efficient, precise, and in control.
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But in emergency lighting, brute force often misses the mark. These fittings are rarely designed for compliant or effective coverage. Assuming a 500Lm light is automatically better than a 200Lm one is misleading. In reality, beam control matters more than raw output. That’s why it pays to think more like Jason Bourne – efficient, precise, and in control.
BRIEF
YOUR MISSION BRIEF: CONTROL THE BEAM
YOUR MISSION BRIEF: CONTROL THE BEAM
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A scattered 500Lm beam might light up walls and ceilings, but not the floor – where visibility counts. In contrast, a well-designed 200Lm luminaire with a tailored optic focuses light where it’s needed, improving safety and compliance. Standard light sources often have wide, uncontrolled beam angles – sometimes up to 120° – wasting energy and compromising visibility. Purpose-built emergency lights use narrow, shaped beams to target escape routes or open areas with precision.
ounts. e visibility c e with s needed, e it’ dandar e. St omplianc ed angl ontroll gy ting ener e ontrol. es omising visibility compr w, t onarr eas pr es or open ar rout
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A scattered 500Lm beam might light up walls and ceilings, but not the floor – where visibility counts. In contrast, a well-designed 200Lm luminaire with a tailored optic focuses light where it’s needed, improving safety and compliance. Standard light sources often have wide, uncontrolled beam angles – sometimes up to 120° – wasting energy and compromising visibility. Purpose-built emergency lights use narrow, shaped beams to target escape routes or open areas with precision.
• Open-area optics: Broad, even coverage with fewer fittings
• ea Br Open-ar erfew ometric dat s phot That’ w actual floor-l y sho . The err.matt
That’s why photometric data and spacing tables matter. They show actual floor-level performance. Lumens and wattage alone don’t tell the full story. Specifiers Must Ask:
ageover en c v oad, e abl a t ormanc el perf ev ape ape es e. age al Lumens and watt
t Ask: s Mus Specifier
That’s why photometric data and spacing tables matter. They show actual floor-level performance. Lumens and wattage alone don’t tell the full story. Specifiers Must Ask:
• engineer
• engineer
• Is this fitting engineered for emergency use?
• Is this fitting engineered for emergency use?
• What’s the beam angle?
• s angl What’
ell the full s one don’t t gency or emer ed f e?
• What’s the beam angle?
• s angl What’
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ety l an risk saf c ation. Al overspecific or job. Aft ool f t
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ety l an risk saf c ation. Al overspecific or the job. Aft ool f t ell the full s one don’t t gency or emer ed f e?
tory e?
• Are validated performance metrics available? Choosing based on habit or lumens can risk safety or lead to costly overspecification. Always use the right tool for the job. After all, you wouldn’t clean your ears with a chainsaw!
os o c ead t er al ways use n habit or lumens
our ear
ean y ouldn’t cl w
ailabl e metrics av ormanc os o c ead t er al ways use n habit or lumens tory e? our ear
• Are validated performance metrics available? Choosing based on habit or lumens can risk safety or lead to costly overspecification. Always use the right tool for the job. After all, you wouldn’t clean your ears with a chainsaw!
JOHN FORD TECHNICAL TRAINING MANAGER
JOHN FORD TECHNICAL TRAINING MANAGER
s with
s with
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continuing professional development (CPD) can be broadly defined as any type of learning you undertake which increases your knowledge, understanding and experiences of a subject area or role. To help professionals to better document and prove this process, our CPD Zone contains content and articles that have been checked, verified and accredited by a third-party specialist organisation
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THE CODEBREAKERS
Experience of what to expec t always pays off when carr ying out periodic inspec tion and testing, highlighting the need for the inspec tion of elec trical accessories
When upgrading any elec trical equipment, consideration of the existing circuit and protec tive devices are a fundamental par t of the design process Unfor tunately, all too of ten the work commences, and the resulting non- compliances (as shown in the photographs) are the outcome.
The lack of k nowledge regarding design parameters for increased loading and installation in thermal insulation is not acceptable and this has increased the risk of overloading and thermal damage to the cable The live terminations and the single -insulated conduc tors have not been enclosed where the shower double -pole isolator and the back box has not been fitted to the rear of the isolator
There are correc t methods for termination of cables and conduc tors to ensure safe installations, and it is not permitted to ignore these due to difficult installation conditions when using unsuitable accessories
Where junc tion boxes have been used to ex tend the cables the single -insulated conduc tors have not been terminated within the box and the inner insulation has not been secured by the cable clamp.
Therefore, the classification code would be a C2, Potential dangerous, urgent remedial ac tion required due to the poor terminations
Need help with cracking those all-impor tant EICR codes? Ever y month the technical team at NAPIT will be studying your latest ‘Caught on Camera’ photos and offering advice on the next steps, should you find a similar installation. If you want the team at NAPIT to help crack your codes then send your pic tures through to us at: pe@hamer ville.co.uk
KEVIN BAILEY: JUST HIDE IT BEHIND A FRIDGE AND NO ONE WILL NOTICE! THIS WAS DISCOVERED ON A RECENT INSPECTION
O f ten when some form of alteration works has been carried out on an elec trical installation, and in this case being a k itchen upgrade, the existing elec trical accessories are not in the correc t positions for the new appliances
There are various methods for the connec tion of conduc tors and unfor tunately covering connec tor blocks with insulation tape and then plastering over them, is not one
There is a lack of suppor t or protec tion against abrasion for the cables including the location of the concealed cables where they are no longer in the prescribed zones due to the removal of the accessories.
Therefore, the classification code would be a C 2 , Pote nt i a l dan g ero u s, urgen t rem e d i a l a
q u i re d due to the poor terminations
WHEN IS IT NECESSARY TO USE INSULATED TOOLS?
A topic which can often cause confusion for electrical professionals is when is it really necessary for an electrician to use insulated hand tools? In this article, the experts at NICEIC aim to provide some clarification.
In order to answer this question it is necessary to consider the legal aspects
Anyone engaged in work activities on or near to live conductors must comply with the requirements contained within the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (EWR)
Regulation 14, Work on or near live conductors is reproduced below:
No person shall be engaged in any work activity on or so near any live conductor (other than one suitably covered with insulating material so as to prevent danger) that danger may arise unless:
a) it is unreasonable in all the circumstances for it to be dead; and
b) it is reasonable in all the circumstances for him to be at work on or near it while it is live; and
(c) suitable precautions (including where necessary the provision of suitable protective equipment) are taken to prevent injury.
Although this regulation clearly permits work on or near live conductors, this can only take place where all three aforementioned conditions – (a) and (b) and (c) – are met.
Guidance on and about these conditions can be found in The Electricity
at Work Regulations 1989: Guidance on Regulations (HSR25), which is downloadable free of charge at: www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsr25.htm
Most types of electrical work should not be carried out on or near live conductors. If danger may otherwise arise, the conductors should be made dead, and be proved to be so, before any work on or near them commences
Furthermore, adequate precautions, such as locking off the means of isolation and placing of notices, should be taken to prevent
the conductors from becoming electrically charged during the work, if danger may thereby arise (EWR regulation 13)
Regulation 14 recognises that there are circumstances where it is unreasonable, having regard to all relevant factors, for the equipment to be dead while work proceeds Examples of work where regulation 14 often applies include electrical testing:
● to establish whether electrical conductors are live or dead,
● to establish whether the polarity of the incoming supply to an installation is correct or incorrect,
● to measure earth fault loop impedance at the origin of an installation
Working on or near live conductors should be the exception, not the normally adopted practice
There is nothing wrong with using insulated hand tools where this is not necessary for safety, such as when working on a circuit known and proven to be dead But if an electrician finds themselves thinking of using an insulated hand tool as a precaution against injury in connection with working on or near live conductors, they should think again
The use of insulated hand tools, like any other precaution intended to prevent injury, cannot alone make it permissible to work on or near live conductors As stated previously in this article, such work is permitted only where all three conditions (a) and (b) and (c) of regulation 14 are satisfied.
Where insulated hand tools are to be relied on as protective equipment for the purposes of condition (c), they should meet the requirements of BS EN IEC 60900:2018 (incorporating corrigendum May 2020) Live working – Hand tools for use up to 1 000 V AC and 1 500 V DC, they shall be suitable for the work concerned and it should be confirmed prior to each use that they are free from any damage, deterioration or modification that may result in danger
As shown in Fig 1, clause 4 1 4 of BS EN IEC 60900:2018 states that each (insulated) hand tool shall be legibly and permanently marked with:
● the symbol IEC 60417-5216:2002-10 – Suitable for live working; double triangle shown in Fig 1,
● the electrical working limit for alternating current, 1 000 V, immediately adjacent to the double triangle symbol
Depending on the circumstances, other protective equipment, including protective clothing, may also be required
Further guidance about protective equipment and other precautions can be found in Electricity at work: Safe working practices (HSG85), which is downloadable free of charge from: www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg85.htm
This publication also covers the decision-making process for whether to work live or dead
NEUTRAL CURRENTS IN THREE-PHASE SYSTEMS
Three-phase four-wire electrical systems are the typical means of modern power distribution in industrial, commercial, and even residential environments Such systems allow for the supply of single-phase (230 V), two-phase (400 V) and three-phase (400 V) loads
Because there is such a wide range of loads which can be connected to a three-phase supply, it is necessary for a neutral conductor to be supplied. The role of the neutral conductor and the behaviour of neutral currents are both critical and often misunderstood
This article delves into the nature of neutral currents in three-phase systems, examining their origins, calculation, implications, and the best practices for managing them to ensure efficiency, safety, and power quality.
1. Fundamentals of three-phase systems
To appreciate the significance of neutral currents, it is essential first to revisit the basics of three-phase systems:
● Balanced loads: In an ideal three-phase system with balanced
loads, the sum of the instantaneous currents in the three phases at any moment is zero (IBr + IBl + IG = 0 A) This means no current should flow through the neutral conductor
● Unbalanced loads: In normal scenarios, loads are rarely perfectly balanced Any difference in the current or impedance across the phases leads to the existence of a current that must return via the neutral (IBr + IBl + IG = IN)
2. The role of the neutral conductor
The neutral conductor serves two main purposes in a three-phase system:
● Return path for unbalanced currents: When phase currents are not identical, the neutral provides a low-resistance path for the resultant or residual current
● Reference point: The neutral acts as a voltage reference, typically grounded at the main distribution panel, establishing a stable potential for phase voltages and enhancing safety
In this latest part of a series of articles, aimed at helping readers to gain a better understanding of three-phase supplies, Jake Green, Head of Technical Engagement at Scolmore Group, examines neutral currents in there-phases systems.
3. Origin of neutral currents
Neutral current, often denoted as IN, arises whenever the currents in the three phases are not balanced
4. Sources and types of neutral currents
4 1 Load Imbalance
Load imbalance is the primary cause of neutral currents in most three-phase installations. However, harmonic currents, typically generated by non-linear loads such as computers, LED lighting, variable frequency drives, and rectifiers, can dramatically increase neutral current
Triplen harmonics (multiples of the third harmonic, i e , 3rd, 9th, 15th, etc ) are of particular concern since triplen harmonics on each phase are in phase with each other, so they sum directly in the neutral rather than cancelling out.
This effect can cause neutral currents to exceed the conductor currents in each of the phases, especially in buildings with a high density of non-linear electronic loads
5. Calculation of neutral current
Calculating neutral current involves
phasor summation of the line currents, accounting for their magnitudes and phase angles In the presence of harmonics, especially triplen harmonics, RMS (Root Mean Square) values must be used, and harmonic analysis may be required.
By way of a simple example involving no triplen harmonics, should three single phase loads of, say, 5 kW, 8 kW and 10 kW be connected to each of the phases, the currents drawn would be:
● IGr = 21 7 A (5 kW),
● IBl = 34 8 A (8 kW) and,
● IBr = 43.5 A (10 kW).
Since the three phases are offset by 120°, the three currents would need to be added together as ‘phasor’ values: calculating horizontal and vertical components For the example given, the horizontal component would be 11 3 A, and the vertical component 13 0 A In this arrangement (see Fig 1), the overall neutral current would be in the region of 17.2 A.
Reference should be made to Appendix 4, Section 5 5 to 5 6 of BS 7671 for guidance on the calculation of rating factors associated with neutral currents, and the determining of triplen harmonic currents
6. Effects of excessive neutral current
Significant neutral current poses multiple risks and challenges:
● Overheating of the neutral conductor
● Voltage imbalance High neutral current may introduce voltage fluctuations on single-phase loads, leading to malfunction or damage
● Electrical noise. Harmonic-rich neutral currents can result in electrical noise, impacting sensitive equipment, communication lines, and protective devices
● Unwanted operation of protective devices
7. Neutral currents and power quality
Power quality is a growing concern with the proliferation of non-linear loads
High neutral currents, particularly those caused by harmonics, can degrade power quality in the following ways:
● Distorted waveforms: Harmonic currents distort the pure sinusoidal waveform, affecting both the supply and the operation of devices
● Increased losses: Additional losses in transformers and wiring due to higher RMS currents and skin effect at higher harmonic frequencies
● Interference: Harmonics can couple into control and communication systems, leading to data errors or equipment malfunctions
8. Mitigation strategies for neutral currents
Various measures can be adopted to mitigate the adverse effects of neutral currents:
8.1 Load balancing
Regular monitoring and strategic allocation of single-phase loads help minimise imbalance This can be automated with modern building management systems
8 2 Oversizing of neutral conductor
In environments with a high density of electronic loads, it is prudent to size the neutral conductor larger than the line conductors – sometimes up to twice the cross-sectional area
8 3 Harmonic filters
Installation of passive or active harmonic filters can reduce the triplen harmonic content, thus lowering neutral current
8 4 Separating sensitive loads
Sensitive electronic equipment can be supplied from circuits with minimal harmonic distortion or supplied via transformers with dedicated neutral conductors
8.5 Regular maintenance and monitoring
Thermal imaging, current monitoring, and periodic power quality audits may help identify and correct problems before they escalate
Conclusion
Neutral currents in three-phase systems are an inevitable reality in modern electrical networks, especially with the prevalence of non-linear loads and unbalanced circuits
Understanding their origins –ranging from simple load imbalance to complex harmonic phenomena – is essential for engineers, electricians, and facility managers By employing effective management strategies and adhering to industry standards, it is possible to safeguard system performance, enhance power quality, and ensure the safety and longevity of electrical infrastructure
GUARDIANS OF THE EARTH
In this article, Andrew Duffen, Technical Commercial Engineer at NAPIT, discusses insulation resistance testing, unmasking the silent guardians of electrical installations.
Insulation resistance testing is an essential test for all inspectors to carry out These tests are performed to determine that the cable and its insulation throughout the electrical installation, is not subject to damage during the erection period
Defective or damaged cables and/or insulation will lead to either short-circuit faults or Earth faults, which could potentially lead to fires, electric shocks or unwanted operation of protective devices.
Back to basics
There are two main factors that will affect the insulation resistance of a healthy circuit:
● Length
● Circuits in parallel
Length
A circuit length affects the insulation resistance due to the number of small individual leakage paths, resistances between the conductors and the cable insulation (loads in a circuit).
With these leakage paths being distributed along the circuit, the longer the circuit (cable length) and with more leakage paths, the lower the insulation resistance value
As a general rule, length will not realistically affect the majority of circuits, unless the circuit is 250 metres or longer
Circuits in parallel
If two final circuits have an insulation resistance value of 50 MΩ between line and neutral for each circuit and an insulation resistance test is performed on them individually, the value obtained would stay the same – 50 MΩ
However, when the two final circuits are tested collectively, via the distribution board or consumer unit, effectively connected in parallel, their total combined insulation may be less than that for one circuit, being 25 MΩ (half the previous insulation value of 50 MΩ)
So, when testing an entire electrical installation, our overall value could be lower than expected, due to all circuits being effectively connected in parallel during the test sequence
From experience and taught practices, we should be aware that ‘the more resistances that are parallel, the lower our overall value will be’
Reasons for the test
The main reason for the insulation resistance test is to ensure that cable insulation is free from defects or damage from the point of delivery to the site, to the point of installation and during the period of final certification Within busy construction sites with various trades working on them, the risk of damaging a cable is very high
Damage to a cable could go unnoticed, i e a tradesperson could drill a wall, with cables concealed within it, or the insulation of a cable could potentially become damaged when cables are being drawn into a containment system
So, if the insulation resistance test was not performed, these potential faults would not be identified
Meter preparation
Before any inspector performs a test, they must confirm that the meter they are using is in calibration, it functions correctly, has suitable battery levels, and is free from damage, including test leads and probes This can be performed using a checkbox or a calibration card
When performing an insulation
Fig 1: Measuring parallel circuits with an insulation resistance meter
resistance test, voltages above 120 V DC are used, an instrument as specified in BS 7671 Regulation 643 1 shall be chosen in accordance with BS EN 61557, and test leads and probes must comply with HSE document GS38
Considerations
when carrying out insulation resistance testing
During initial verification, Inspectors shall carry out the insulation resistance testing prior to the connection of any equipment
In cases where equipment has been connected, these will have to be removed or disconnected (isolate any loads) since they could be potentially damaged by high voltages or provide incorrect test values Any electronic switching devices, such as LED lamps or PIR sensors, must be disconnected and bridged out
This could be done using a connector block or similar method. RCBO protecting
the circuit may also give suspicious values, so may need to be disconnected when performing the test
It is also essential that all switches should be in the closed (on) position in order to allow measurements to be made throughout the entire circuit, and it is possible that contactors may need to be bridged. As with any similar items, testing may need to be done separately for the section of the circuit beyond the item of equipment
As far as reasonably practical, with consideration of the aforementioned equipment, the installation should be in a complete state, with all electrical accessories connected, covers on and with all bonding in place and connected
Preferably, the complete installation should be tested as a whole, so all circuit-breakers and fuses must be in place and in the closed position (on) for this to be achieved.
Test method
It has been clearly stated in BS 7671, and further explained in the NAPIT Guide to Initial Verification and Periodic Inspection and Testing, how inspectors are required to perform the insulation resistance test As mentioned in ‘considerations when carrying out insulation resistance testing’, sensitive equipment must be removed (as reasonably practical) from the circuits installation
With Regulation 643 3 3 covering the process, the requirement is to carry out the insulation resistance test in two stages
Insulation resistance can be carried out during the erection stage of the installation, but it is important to remember that all sections containment systems and circuits subject to testing would need to be in place and completed
Stage one
Once all circuits have been installed, temporary connectors shall be put in place at all points within the circuit
Again, by using a connector block or similar method, a test is then carried out between line-neutral, line-cpc and neutral-cpc, ensuring the protective conductor is connected to earthing arrangement and using a test voltage of 500 V DC to achieve a test result of a minimum of 1 MΩ (for new circuits, ideally to achieve a full-scale deflection reading)
If the lighting circuit contains two-way switches and intermediate switches, then these must be operated in all combinations and the tests re-performed
Increasingly, manufacturers of electrical equipment are now developing products that can withstand the 500 V DC test, such as USB socket-outlets, or are making their products easier to disconnect from the circuit during the 500 V DC test, such as spotlights and modular lighting
At the design or specification stage of a potential job, it may be prudent for designers and installers to consider these types of electrical equipment
Stage two
Upon completion of stage one, all sensitive equipment can be connected to the circuit Once again, a test is performed between the live conductors and cpc, ensuring that the protective conductor is connected to earthing arrangement, but now using 250 V DC as the test voltage,
Fig 2: Insulation resistance measured between line and neutral
and achieving a reading of at least 1 MΩ
Again, if the lighting circuit contains two-way switches and intermediate switches, these must be operated in all combinations and the tests re-performed
Conclusion
Performing the insulation resistance test on electrical circuits is crucial for determining safety, reliability and compliance with BS 7671 This test helps identify potential insulation failures that could lead to electrical shocks, short-circuits, or fires
Since the introduction of BS 7671:2018+A2:2022, the approach inspectors must take when performing the insulation resistance test has been very clearly defined
Hopefully, this article has helped you to better understand its requirements
There are a range of Inspection & Testing courses available from NAPIT Training: www.napittraining.co.uk/courses
Fig 3: Insulation resistance measured between live conductors and cpc
Dr. Zzeus
IN THIS REGULAR COLUMN, DR. TOM BROOKES, MD AT ZZEUS TRAINING AND CHAIRMAN OF THE FSA, ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS RELATED TO FIRE SAFETY. IN THIS MONTH’S EDITION HE LOOKS AT COMPLIANCE OF FIRE SAFETY SYSTEMS IF FIRE ALARM INDICATOR DEVICES DON’T MEET THE REQUIRED STANDARDS.
Q. Does BS 5839-1:2025 make it clear what the major non-conformances are?
The short answer to this question is ‘yes’
BS 5839-1:2025 – critical failures you cannot ignore Major non-conformities and variations that are not permitted
When you’re inspecting or servicing a fire alarm system, spotting a major non-conformity is not just a box-ticking exercise, it’s identifying a fault that could directly compromise life safety
BS 5839-1:2025 is very clear:
● Certain issues must always be reported to the premises management
● Some variations are now completely prohibited no matter who agrees to them.
If it stops a system from working when it’s needed most, it’s your duty to identify it, document it, and ensure the responsible person understands the risk
Major non-conformities – clause 44.1.2
These are not “nice to fix” issues – they are red flags that indicate the system may fail in a real fire.
1 Insufficient manual call points (clause 19)
If people can’t easily raise the alarm, response times are delayed Every second that passes before the alarm sounds gives fire more time to spread
2. Inconsistent call point operation
All call points must operate identically unless there’s a justified reason. Mixed operation can cause confusion in an emergency
3. Detection not matching the system category
Systems must provide the detection coverage their category (L1, L2, L3, etc ) demands Anything less is a breach of the design intent.
4. Heat detectors in bedrooms
The 2025 standard makes it clear: in sleeping accommodation, smoke detection is preferred for speed of response Heat detection here risks delayed warning
5. Sound pressure levels too low (clause 15)
If the alarm isn’t loud enough to wake or alert people in all areas, it isn’t fit for purpose
6. Standby power failures (clause 24.3)
Without a compliant standby supply, the system may be disabled during a power cut – exactly when extra resilience is needed
Cable must maintain circuit integrity during a fire Poor cable choice or inadequate support that collapses in heat can cut communications between devices
8. Inadequate circuit monitoring (clause 11.1)
Critical circuits and auxiliary supplies must be continuously monitored so faults are detected immediately.
Failures in these areas can leave parts of the system unreliable or non-functional
10. Electrical safety shortcomings (clause 28)
A system must meet all relevant electrical safety standards Faulty or unsafe wiring creates both fire risk and operational risk
11. Excessive false alarms (section 3) Too many false activations cause complacency, delay evacuation, and waste fire service resources
12. Building changes affecting coverage
Alterations to layout, use, or structure can create blind spots or reduce alarm audibility – requiring a system review
13. Missing zone plan or diagram (clause 22.2.5)
Firefighters need to know exactly where the alarm has activated Without a zone plan, response is slowed Under the new standard, this cannot be a variation
14. No zonal indication (clause 22.2)
The control panel must show which zone is in alarm This is vital for directing emergency response
15. No ARC link in key residential settings
In care homes and certain supported housing, the system must automatically transmit signals to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) Without it, help may be
delayed when residents cannot self-evacuate. Under the new standard, this cannot be a variation.
“If it can stop a system working when it’s needed most, it’s a major non-conformity Find it, document it, and make sure the responsible person understands the risk ” Dr Zzeus
DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION YOU'D LIKE ANSWERED? EMAIL YOUR QUERIES TO: TOM@ZZEUS.ORG.UK
GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT ZZEUS TRAINING AND THE RANGE OF COURSES ON OFFER AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR067
VERIFICATION OF EARTH FAULT LOOP IMPEDANCE
Curtis Jones, Technical Manager at ECA, provides guidance about the methodology and interpretation of test results when undertaking earth fault loop impedance testing.
Earth fault loop impedance testing is a common test undertaken every day all over the country It is a staple of the electrical contracting industry Most of the time the tests are simple to perform, and results are often easy to interpret
However, in some cases the measurements can be confusing, or give readings that seem to suggest the system is unsafe
Key points to remember when performing the test and verifying the readings include the following:
● The method used will affect the accuracy of the reading,
● Test equipment with a low measurement range may be required when conducting tests near the origin of supplies or transformers,
● The temperature of conductors needs to be considered when verifying readings
What is earth fault loop impedance?
‘the impedance of the earth fault current loop starting and ending at the point of earth fault This impedance is denoted by the symbol Zs’
n e a r t h
within an installation to confirm automatic disconnection of supply (ADS) is achieved, when this is the protective measure provided against electric shock Often this is achieved by the use of an overcurrent protective device T
f a u l t c o n d i t i o n
The verification of earth fault loop impedance is crucial for each circuit
4 1 1 3 2 2
T h e f i g u r e s p r e s e n t e d i n Ta b l e 4 1 1
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g e n e r a t i o n . T h i s i n t u r n w i l l c a u s e t h e
p r o t e c t i v e d e v i c e t o o p e r a t e w i t h i n
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M e t h o d s o f o b t a i n i n g e a r t h f a u l t
l o o p i m p e d a n c e v a l u e s
T h e r e a r e t w o w i d e l y u s e d m e t h o d s
f o r o b t a i n i n g e a r t h f a u l t l o o p
i m p e d a n c e v a l u e s o f a c i r c u i t :
1 . The often preferred method is to perform a continuity test of R1 + R2 and then add the value obtained to the external earth fault loop impedance (Ze) where the circuit is fed from the origin of the installation, or the (Zdb) where the circuit is fed from a sub-distribution board
2 . D i r e c t m e a s u r e m e n t o f t o t a l e a r t h
f a u l t l o o p i m p e d a n c e ( Z s) c a n b e m a d e w i t h a n e a r t h f a u l t l o o p
i m p e d a n c e t e s t e r
I t i s i m p o r t a n t t o s e l e c t t e s t e q u i p m e n t
s u i t a b l e f o r t h e p u r p o s e o f t h e t e s t , w i t h m e a s u r e m e n t r a n g e s t h a t m e e t t h e r e q u i r e m e n t s o f B S E N
6 1 5 5 7 - 3 : 2 0 2 2 .
Performing a direct measurement is particularly useful when working within an existing installation, for example when carrying out periodic inspection
and testing or maintenance activities
I n a c c u r a c i e s w h e n m e a s u r i n g e a r t h
f a u l t l o o p i m p e d a n c e
Modern multifunctional test instruments usually offer three methods for performing direct measurements of earth fault loop impedance
T h e s e m e t h o d s c a n p r e s e n t c e r t a i n
l i m i t a t i o n s w h e n t r y i n g t o o b t a
c o n s i d e r e d
The two-wire ‘high current’ test setting should always be utilised when possible This method generates a large enough test current (typically in the region of 25 A) to create a measurable voltage drop and therefore a stable and accurate reading
H o w e v e r i f, f o r e x a m p l e, a r e s i d u a l
c u r r e n t d e v i c e i s p r e s e n t , t h e n e i t h e r
a t h r e e - w i r e ‘ n o n - t r i p’ t e s t s e t t i n g o r a
t w o - w i r e ‘ n o n - t r i p’ t e s t s e t t i n g w o u l d
n e e d t o b e u t i l i s e d
T h e t w o - w i r e ‘ n o n - t r i p’ s e t t i n g i s
t h e m o s t t e c h n i c a l l y d i f f i c u l t f o r t h e
i n s t r u m e n t t o p e r f o r m a n d t h e r e f o r e
m o r e p r o n e t o e r r o r s F o r t h i s r e a s o n ,
t h i s m e t h o d s h o u l d o n l y b e u s e d a s a
l a s t r e s o r t , f o r e x a m p l e a t a p a s s i v e
s w i t c h w h e r e n o n e u t r a l i s p r e s e n t
T h e d i f f i c u l t y w i t h t h e ‘ n o n - t r i p’ t e s t
s e t t i n g s i s t h a t t h e t e s t c u r r e n t i s
s i g n i f i c a n t l y s m a l l e r t h a n t h e t w o - w i r e
‘ h i g h c u r r e n t ’ t e s t s e t t i n g ( g e n e r a l l y
n o t e xc e e d i n g 1 5 m A ) i n o r d e r t o
p r e v e n t t h e r e s i d u a l c u r r e n t d e v i c e
w i t h i n t h e c i r c u i t f r o m t r i p p i n g D u e t o
F ig 3 P e r m i s s ib l e m e a s u r e m e n t e r r o r a c c o r d in g t o t h e B S E N 6 1 5 5 7 Se r ie s (referenced on next page)
s u c h a l o w l e v e l o f c u r r e n t , t h e t e s t
d o e s n o t c r e a t e a s i g n i f i c a n t v o l t a g e
d r o p a n d r e a d i n g s a r e p r o n e t o a
l a r g e r d e g r e e i n v a r i a t i o n
F u r t h e r f a c t o r s s u c h a s e x t e r n a l
l o a d s w i t c h i n g , e l e c t r i c a l n o i s e,
h a r m o n i c s a n d o t h e r e l e c t r o n i c
c o m p o n e n t s o r d e v i c e s c o u l d a l s o
c r e a t e d i f f i c u l t i e s w h e n o b t a i n i n g a
m e a s u r e m e n t
T h e s e f a c t o r s c a n h a v e a g r e a t e r
e f f e c t w h e n u s i n g a ‘ n o n - t r i p’ t e s t
m e t h o d w h e r e t h e y m a y f u r t h e r
h i n d e r t h e a c c u r a c y o f t h e t e s t r e s u l t s
o b t a i n e d . T h i s e m p h a s i s e s t h e n e e d
t o u t i l i s e t h e ‘ h i g h c u r r e n t ’ t e s t s e t t i n g
w h e r e p o s s i b l e
Re s i d u a l c u r r e n t d e v i c e s ( R C D s )
c a n a t t i m e s a l s o p r e s e n t p r o b l e m s
w i t h t e s t r e s u l t s i f t h e i n t e r n a l i m p e d a n c e o f t h e d e v i c e i t s e l f i s
i n c l u d e d . O n o c c a s i o n , t h i s m a y b e a s
h i g h a s a n a d d i t i o n a l 0 5 Ω
C l e a r l y t h e r e m a y b e t i m e s w h e n
t h e a d d i t i o n o f t h i s n u m b e r w i t h i n t h e
t e s t r e s u l t r e a d i n g m a y i n d i c a t e t h a t
t h e c i r c u i t d o e s n’ t c o n f o r m w i t h t h e
r e q u i r e m e n t s o f B S 7 6 7 1
T h i s i s c o m m o n l y k n o w n a s ‘ R C D
u p l i f t ’ a n d i n s p e c t o r s s h o u l d b e a w a r e
o f t h i s p o s s i b i l i t y, a l t h o u g h i t ’s w o r t h n o t i n g t h a t t h i s a n o m a l y d o e s n o t o c c u r f o r a l l t y p e s o f r e s i d u a l c u r r e n t
d e v i c e s
I f ‘ R C D u p l i f t ’ i s s u s p e c t e d , t h e n a
s i m p l e m e a s u r e m e n t c a n b e
c o n d u c t e d o n t h e s u p p l y s i d e o f t h e
d e v i c e a n d t h e n r e p e a t e d o n t h e l o a d
s i d e o f t h e d e v i c e t o e s t a b l i s h i f
a d d i t i o n a l i m p e d a n c e i s o b s e r v e d
S o m e m u l t i f u n c t i o n a l t e s t i n s t r u m e n t s a r e i m m u n e t o t h e e f f e c t s
o f R C D u p l i f t a n d i n s p e c t o r s s h o u l d
c o n s u l t m a n u f a c t u r e r s’ l i t e r a t u r e f o r
t h e i r e q u i p m e n t
Pe r m i s s i b l e m e a s u r e m e n t e r r o r s a n d
i t s e f f e c t s o n l o w i m p e d a n c e
m e a s u r e m e n t a c c u r a c y
M e a s u r e m e n t s o f e a r t h f a u l t l o o p
i m p e d a n c e w h e n c l o s e t o a
t r a n s f o r m e r o r o t h e r l a r g e s o u r c e o f s u p p l y, c a n p r e s e n t d i f f i c u l t i e s t o
o f f - t h e - s h e l f t e s t i n s t r u m e n t s b e c a u s e
t h e v a l u e s l i ke l y t o b e o b t a i n e d m a y
b e o u t s i d e o f t h e m e a s u r e m e n t r a n g e
f o r t h e i n s t r u m e n t .
I n t h i s c a s e, a h i g h - r e s o l u t i o n t e s t i n s t r u m e n t s h o u l d b e u s e d t o e n s u r e
m o r e a c c u r a t e a n d r e l i a b l e t e s t
m e a s u r e m e n t s
I t i s w o r t h r e m e m b e r i n g t h a t v a l u e s
o f e x t e r n a l e a r t h f a u l t l o o p i m p e d a n c e
a n d p r o s p e c t i v e f a u l t c u r r e n t c a n b e
o b t a i n e d b y a l t e r n a t i v e m e t h o d s , i n c l u d i n g v i a e n q u i r y.
F o r l a r g e r s y s t e m s w i t h a p r i v a t e
d e d i c a t e d s u p p l y, t h e o r g a n i s a t i o n
r e s p o n s i b l e f o r i t s c o m m i s s i o n i n g m a y
m a ke t h e s e v a l u e s a v a i l a b l e
W h e n e s t a b l i s h i n g t h e s u i t a b i l i t y o f
a n i n s t r u m e n t t o m a ke r e l i a b l e
m e a s u r e m e n t s , r e f e r t o B S E N 6 1 5 5 7
s e r i e s f o r p e r m i s s i b l e v a l u e s o f
m e a s u r e m e n t e r r o r f o r w h i c h t e s t
e q u i p m e n t s h o u l d c o m p l y F o r l o o p
i m p e d a n c e t e s t e r s , B S E N
6 1 5 5 7 - 3 : 2 0 2 2 a l l o w s f o r a p e r m i s s i b l e
m e a s u r e m e n t e r r o r o f u p t o 3 0 % ( s e e
F i g 3 , p r e v i o u s p a g e )
W h e n c o m p a r i n g t h i s i n f o r m a t i o n
w i t h t h e m a n u f a c t u r e r ’s l i t e r a t u r e f o r
t h e t e s t e q u i p m e n t , t h e 3 0 %
p e r m i s s i b l e e r r o r l o o k s q u i t e l a r g e,
a n d i n s p e c t o r s m a y i n i t i a l l y b e l i e v e
t h e i r i n s t r u m e n t a t i o n i s s i g n i f i c a n t l y
m o r e a c c u r a t e t h a n t h i s r e q u i r e m e n t
H o w e v e r, t h e r e a r e a f e w t e r m s w e
n e e d t o c o n s i d e r b e f o r e a n a c c u r a t e
a s s e s s m e n t a n d v e r i f i c a t i o n o f t h e t e s t
e q u i p m e n t c a n b e e s t a b l i s h e d
C o m m o n m e a s u r e m e n t t e r m s
● D i s p l a y r a n g e : T h e n u m e r i c a l v a l u e
o f t h e d i s p l a y e g 2 ,0 0 0 Ty p i c a l l y,
a d i s p l a y w i l l s h o w v a l u e s o f
0 0 0 0 - 1 9 9 9 Ω , 1 9 9 9 Ω o r 1 , 9 9 9 Ω
● Re s o l u t i o n : T h e s m a l l e s t c h a n g e i n
t h e m e a s u r e d v a l u e t h a t t h e
d i s p l a y e d r a n g e c a n s h o w F o r a
2 ,0 0 0 n u m e r i c a l v a l u e d i s p l a y t h i s
w o u l d t y p i c a l l y b e 0 0 1 Ω
● M e a s u r e m e n t r a n g e : W h e r e t h e m a n u f a c t u r e r s t a t e s t h a t t h e
p o s s i b l e e r r o r i s n o t g r e a t e r t h a n
t h a t s p e c i f i e d i n B S E N 6 1 5 5 7 - 3
F o r e x a m p l e, 0 2 0 Ω t o 1 , 9 9 9 Ω
● I n s t r u m e n t a c c u r a c y : T h i s i s
s p e c i f i e d a n d m a d e u p o f t w o
v a l u e s :
F ig 4 E x a m p le o f a m e a s u r e m e nt r a n g e wi t h 0 0 1 Ω r e s o lu t i o n w i t h a n a cc u r a cy / e r r o r o f ± (2 % m V + 4 di g it s )
◦ Analog error – N o r m a l l y e x p r e s s e d a s a p e r c e n t a g e o f
t h e m e a s u r e d v a l u e
◦ Digital error – S h o w n a s a n
a d d i t i o n a l d i g i t e r r o r o r d i g i t m e a s u r e m e n t v a l u e.
A c c u r a c y i s s h o w n o n a p r o d u c t
d a t a s h e e t a s ± ( % o f m v + d i g i t e r r o r )
F o r e x a m p l e, a t y p i c a l m u l t i f u n c t i o n a l
t e s t i n s t r u m e n t m a y h a v e a n u m e r i c a l
v a l u e d i s p l a y r a n g e o f 0.0 0 Ω t o 1 , 9 9 9
Ω f o r t h e e a r t h f a u l t l o o p i m p e d a n c e
t e s t s e t t i n g H o w e v e r, i n r e a l i t y, t h e s e
t y p e s o f i n s t r u m e n t s a r e l i ke l y t o h a v e
a m e a s u r e m e n t r a n g e d i f f e r e n t t o t h i s
Measurement values below around 0 20 Ω in typical multifunction test instruments may be susceptible to significant errors and fall outside the 30% permissible measurement error range (see Fig 4, above)
M a n u f a c t u r e r s o f t e s t i n s t r u m e n t s
a r e n o w r e q u i r e d t o p r o v i d e
i n f o r m a t i o n o n t h e m e a s u r e m e n t
r a n g e o f t h e i n s t r u m e n t , t a k i n g
a c c o u n t o f t h e p e r m i s s i b l e
m e a s u r e m e n t e r r o r v a l u e s
P r e v i o u s l y, t h e i n f o r m a t i o n
p r o v i d e d w i t h s u c h t e s t i n s t r u m e n t s
w a s o f t e n t h e n u m e r i c a l d i s p l a y e d
v a l u e r a n g e, r a t h e r t h a n t h e
m e a s u r e m e n t r a n g e
T h i s i n f o r m a t i o n c a n b e f o u n d
w i t h i n t h e m a n u f a c t u r e r ’s l i t e r a t u r e o r
m a y b e d i s p l a y e d o n t h e i n s t r u m e n t
i t s e l f, a n d c o u l d t y p i c a l l y b e 0. 3 0 Ω t o
1 ,0 0 0 Ω w i t h a r e s o l u t i o n o f 0.0 1 Ω .
T h i s w o u l d s t i l l s a t i s f y B S E N
6 1 5 5 7 - 3 : 2 0 2 2 w h e n u s e d w i t h i n i t s p a r a m e t e r s , b u t t h i s e q u i p m e n t m a y
n o t b e s u i t a b l e f o r u s e w h e r e
m e a s u r e m e n t s f a l l o u t s i d e o f t h e
m e a s u r e m e n t r a n g e s p e c i f i e d b y t h e
m a n u f a c t u r e r ( s e e F i g 5 , b e l o w )
H i g h r e s o l u t i o n e a r t h f a u l t l o o p
i m p e d a n c e t e s t e r s
M a n y l a r g e r i n s t a l l a t i o n s h a v e p r i v a t e
s u b s t a t i o n s a n d t r a n s f o r m e r s
s u p p l y i n g t h e p r e m i s e s . I n t h e s e
c i r c u m s t a n c e s , v a l u e s o f i m p e d a n c e
n e a r t h e o r i g i n a r e l i ke l y t o b e v e r y
l o w, a n d p r o t e c t i v e d e v i c e s s u c h a s
B S E N 6 0 9 4 7 - 2 M o u l d e d C a s e C i r c u i t
B r e a ke r s ( M C C B s ) a r e o f t e n u s e d
W h e r e l i v e t e s t i n g i s p e r f o r m e d ,
s u i t a b l e t e s t e q u i p m e n t s h o u l d b e
e m p l o y e d i n o r d e r t o v e r i f y a d e q u a t e
d i s c o n n e c t i o n o f s u c h d e v i c e s I t
w o u l d b e w r o n g t o a s s u m e a c i r c u i t
f a i l s t o m e e t i t s d i s c o n n e c t i o n t i m e, i f
m a x i m u m v a l u e s o f i m p e d a n c e a r e n’ t
m e t , i f t h e v a l u e s f a l l o u t s i d e t h e
F i g 5 E x a m p l e o f u s e r g ui d e d i s p la y a n d m e a s u r e m e n t r a n ge t o l e r a n c e s f o r a m ul t if u n c t io n t e s t e r ( So ne l MP I - 5 4 0 )
i n s t r u m e n t ’s m e a s u r e m e n t r a n g e,
t a k i n g i n t o a c c o u n t t h e p e r m i s s i b l e
m e a s u r e m e n t e r r o r v a l u e s
F o r s u c h c i r c u m s t a n c e s a s u i t a b l e
h i g h r e s o l u t i o n e a r t h f a u l t l o o p
i m p e d a n c e t e s t i n s t r u m e n t s h o u l d b e
s e l e c t e d w h e n p e r f o r m i n g t e s t s
T h e s e t y p e s o f i n s t r u m e n t s t y p i c a l l y
h a v e i n c r e a s e d m e a s u r e m e n t
r e s o l u t i o n o f 0 1 m Ω a n d h a v e a
m e a s u r e m e n t r a n g e r e a d i n g a s l o w a s
7. 2 m Ω , w h i l s t p r o v i d i n g a t e s t c u r r e n t
i n t h e o r d e r o f 1 3 0 A t o 3 0 0 A ( s e e F i g
6 , a b o v e )
The increased measurement range and instrument resolution enables more accurate readings to be obtained and thus the inspector can verify if the requirements of automatic disconnection are being satisfied Inspectors should always consult manufacturers’ literature to confirm that test instruments are used within the parameters for which they were designed
M a x i m u m a c c e p t a b l e v a l u e s o f e a r t h
f a u l t l o o p i m p e d a n c e
Va l u e s o f e a r t h f a u l t l o o p i m p e d a n c e o b t a i n e d s h o u l d p r e f e r a b l y b e v e r i f i e d
a g a i n s t m a x i m u m v a l u e s s t i p u l a t e d b y
t h e
i n B S 7 6 7 1 T h i s i n f o r m a t i o n s h o u l d b e n o t e d o n t h e s c h e d u l e o f c i r c u i t
d e t a i l s a n d s c h e d u l e o f t e s t r e s u l t s
w h e n c o m p l e t i n g r e q u i r e d
d o c u m e n t a t i o n .
In the absence of manufacturers’ data, BS 7671 provides maximum earth fault loop impedance values for common fuses and circuit breakers However, these values are based on the line conductors being at their maximum permitted operating temperature, and circuit protective conductors being at their assumed initial temperature when the measurement of impedance was obtained
F o r m e a s u r e m e n t s m a d e a t a m b i e n t t e m p e r a t u r e
B S 7 6 7 1 p r o v i d e s g u i d a n c e, a n d
a d j u s t e d v a l u e s f o r t y p i c a l
c i r c u m s t a n c e s c a n b e f o u n d w i t h i n t h e
I E T ’s G u i d a n c e N o t e 3 o r t h e I E T ’s
M a n y i n s p e c t o r s a p p l y a b l a n ke t
a p p r o a c h t o v e r i f y i n g Z s v a l u e s
a g a i n s t t h e v a l u e s t h a t h a v e b e e n
a d j u s t e d f o r a m b i e n t t e m p e r a t u r e
H o w e v e r, i n s o m e i n s t a n c e s t h i s m a y
b e d i f f i c u l t t o a c h i e v e d u e t o t h e
c i r c u i t c o n s t r a i n t s .
F o r e x a m p l e, d u r i n g p e r i o d i c
i n s p e c t i o n a n d t e s t i n g a l o a d m a y
h a v e b e e n m o m e n t a r i l y s h u t d o w n t o
a l l o w a t e s t t o b e p e r f o r m e d A s a
r e s u l t , t h e c i r c u i t c o n d u c t o r s w i l l l i ke l y
s t i l l b e c o n s i d e r a b l y w a r m e r t h a n t h a t
o f a m b i e n t t e m p e r a t u r e i n a v i c i n i t y.
C o n s e q u e n t l y, t h i s w i l l m e a n a n
i n c r e a s e o f m e a s u r e d Z s f r o m w h a t
w o u l d h a v e b e e n e x p e c t e d i f t h e
c o n d u c t o r s w e r e s a t a t a m b i e n t
t e m p e r a t u r e
I f t h e c i r c u i t c o n s t r a i n t s m e a n t
c o n d u c t o r s w e r e o p e r a t i n g a t o r n e a r
t h e i r m a x i m u m c u r r e n t c a r r y i n g
c a p a c i t y, i t w o u l d b e i m p o s s i b l e t o
a c h i e v e t h e 8 0 % v a l u e s i n t h e s e
o p e r a t i o n a l c o n d i t i o n s
A s c a n b e s e e n , v e r i f y i n g Z s v a l u e s
o b t a i n e d o f t e n i n v o l v e s a p p l y i n g
s o u n d e n g i n e e r i n g l o g i c i n o r d e r t o
c o n f i r m c o m p l i a n c e w i t h B S 7 6 7 1 .
S u m m a r y
Earth fault loop impedance testing, when done well, is a simple and easy method to verify the safety of circuits
In some cases, off-the-shelf test equipment may not always be accurate or specific enough to measure, with any degree of certainty, the earth fault loop impedance of the circuit
I t i s t h e r e f o r e v i t a l t h a t n o t o n l y
s h o u l d y o u h a v e t h e c o r r e c t
c o m p e t e n c e o f p e o p l e u s i n g t h e
e q u i p m e n t , b u t t h e e q u i p m e n t i t s e l f
s h o u l d b e s u i t a b l e f o r t h e f u n c t i o n i t i s
p e r f o r m i n g
A s i m p l e o f f - t h e - s h e l f m u l t i f u n c t i o n
p i e c e o f t e s t e q u i p m e n t w i l l n o r m a l l y
s u f f i c e f o r m o s t p r o j e c t s , b u t o n
o c c a s i o n s p e c i a l i s e d e q u i p m e n t m a y
b e n e e d e d
C o n t r i b u t i o n s
ECA would like to thank Rob Barker of Power Quality Expert and Sonel for their contributions to the ‘Verification of Earth Fault Loop Impedance’ guidance note available free to members through the ECA Members portal
F u r t h e r r e a d i n g :
● E CA G u i d a n c e N o t e – Ve r i f i c a t i o n
o f E a r t h F a u l t Lo o p I m p e d a n c e
● E CA G u i d a n c e N o t e – Wo r k o n o r
n e a r l i v e LV e l
ELEX 2025
CONTINUE YO UR P ROF E S SION A L DEVELOPMENT AT ELE X SHOW!
Taking place across two days at Sandown Park in Surrey, the last ELEX show of the year is just a few weeks away. What’s more, we’ve got great news for visitors that are serious about CPD!
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
YOUR S H OW, NEA R YO U. . .
● At a venue near you
● Across two days
● Free parking (van friendly)
● Free entry
● Free T-Shirt & a free bacon roll* (*limited to first 1,000 visitors)
● Show bargains
● Hands-on demos
● Meet manufacturers
● Networking opportunities
● CPD accredited seminars and certificates
show deal on tools and equipment from leading brands, your regional ELEX tradeshow has it all
The final stop on this year’s ELEX 2025 tour takes place next month at Sandown Park in Surrey – 6th & 7th November, 10am - 4pm
Working on your own? Need some technical advice? Don’t know where to turn? Ask Megger What it doesn’t know about installing and testing electrical systems isn’t worth knowing Every question will be answered by the Megger Technical Team, and the best will be published in Professional Electrician So, take advantage of the ‘ every question answered’ guarantee today Email your questions to: meggermeasures@hamerville co uk
You ask:
I’M STARTING TO DO MORE PAT TESTING THAN I USED TO, AND THE ONE THING THAT’S REALLY BUGGING ME IS THE TIME AND TROUBLE I HAVE TO SPEND RECORDING ASSET DETAILS AND TEST RESULTS. IS THERE AN EASY WAY TO DO THIS?
Megger says:
The combination of a Megger PAT250 handheld portable PAT tester and Megger’s new CertSuite PAT software will provide exactly what you ’ re looking for along with a whole host of additional and very useful features The PAT250 is available to run off standard batteries or with an internal rechargeable battery, but whichever version you choose, it will provide everything you need for PAT testing When you use your PAT250 with the CertSuite PAT software running on a smartphone, tablet or computer, you’ll also get the convenience of remote operation You can even set up and store your own custom test sequences, which is a big time saver Best of all, CertSuite PAT also captures your test results automatically, so you’ll be able to produce those test reports quickly and easily When you buy a PAT250, you’ll automatically get a twelve-month renewable licence for CertSuite PAT The software stores your test results securely and is preloaded with customisable test reports Another big benefit is that CertSuite PAT is updated regularly, so you’ll always be on top of all the latest changes to regulations and standards
HOLD IT TOGETHER
In almost every installation – whether it’s rewires or EV charger fit-outs –cables sit at the heart of electrical work
Getting the cable choice right is only half the challenge, however
How those cables are managed, contained and protected makes the difference between a neat, compliant job and one that risks safety and reputation
With demand rising across domestic and commercial applications, electricians need solutions that balance performance, compliance, and speed.
Market trends: More cables, more containment
The UK domestic market is expanding rapidly, fuelled by renovation projects and the integration of renewables and smart technologies This is increasing demand for twin & earth, trunking, conduit and cable containment products.
At the same time, customers are more aware of safety, aesthetics, and long-term reliability As a result, cable management has shifted from a background task to a key buying driver
Legislation and best practice
Compliance remains a central concern BS 7671 wiring regulations set out strict requirements for securing and protecting cables, particularly around escape routes and fire safety Non-metallic clips alone are no longer sufficient in certain environments; metal fixings or fire-rated alternatives are required
Electricians must therefore choose accessories that not only hold cables securely but also meet legislative obligations Best practice means combining
the right clips, trunking, and containment solutions with efficient fixing tools to ensure consistent standards across every job
Product developments and solutions
Advances in cable management solutions are making life easier on-site. At SPIT, our range of cable management accessories is designed to improve speed and reliability without compromising compliance
In this article the team at SPIT look into the many benefits of ing precision-engineered ps and fast-fix solutions in stallations that require ectrical cables.
who adopt best-in-class accessories can differentiate themselves
From twin & earth clips and capping nails to conduit clips and trunking fixings, these solutions are engineered to stay in place securely while reducing installation time Our PULSA nailing technology further enhances productivity, allowing electricians to fix containment systems up to eight times faster than traditional methods.
Case in point: Domestic rewires
A typical rewire in a renovation project involves chasing walls, installing capping or trunking, running twin & earth cable, and securing it with clips Electricians often report frustrations with fiddly fixings and lost time when cheaper accessories fail
Using precision-engineered clips and fast-fix solutions not only prevents these issues but also ensures compliance with fire safety standards The result: safer, cleaner installations delivered faster – a win for both contractor and customer
Opportunities for contractors
With cable management now a visible measure of workmanship, contractors
Offering customers installations that are neater, safer, and future-ready creates opportunities for upselling and repeat business Those who understand evolving standards and explain the value of compliant fixings – such as fire-rated clips – position themselves as trusted professionals.
Smarter choices for better outcomes
Cables and cable management may be everyday tasks, but they underpin the quality and safety of every project By combining the right cable accessories with innovative fixing tools, electricians can work smarter, stay compliant, and protect their professional reputation
With product ranges like SPIT’s, which is designed for speed, safety, and reliability, contractors have the opportunity to raise their standards and their profitability in equal measure
SECURING CONNECTIONS
Jake Green, Head of Technical Engagement at Scolmore Group, which includes Unicrimp, looks at the role conduit accessories play in cable management systems.
CProtection
onduit plays a crucial role in cable management by providing protection, organisation, and routing for electrical wiring and cables
Among the key functions of conduit are the following:
Mechanically protecting cables from physical damage, moisture, chemicals, and environmental factors This also reduces the risk of faults, such as short circuits, and access to potential live parts.
Organisation
Aside from mechanically protecting cables, conduit helps maintain a neat and organised wiring system This systematic routing of cables prevents clutter and simplifies future maintenance or troubleshooting activities
Compliance
When selecting the use of a conduit system it is essential that the conduit accessories used are installed correctly to ensure adherence to the relevant electrical standards, which is vital for all types of installations
Conduit accessories
Conduit accessories play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation, safety and longevity of electrical conduit systems.
As a leading player in the cable accessories sector, Unicrimp has recently added a comprehensive collection of conduit accessories to its Q-Crimp product portfolio
The range of conduit fittings and accessories has been designed to offer durability and ease of installation These
essential components not only protect wiring but also enhance the overall efficiency of electrical systems
Conduit accessories ensure that installations comply with safety regulations and standards, such as IET Wiring Regulations. Both indoors and outdoors, whether in commercial buildings, large-scale industrial settings or residential homes, conduit accessories are the unsung heroes that keep everything together and ensure safety
● Inspection Tees – create a three-way junction with a window for easy cable checking and access
The range comprises more than 90 individual items in total, with key products including Conduit Boxes, Light Gauge Saddles, Inspection Tees, Inspection Bends, and Metal Hooks
● Conduit Boxes – also known as BESA boxes – are designed to protect and route electrical cables within building structures The new range includes 1 Way, 2 Way, 3 Way, and 4 Way Conduit Boxes, available in a variety of Angled, Tangent, ‘U’, ‘Y’, and ‘H’ shape configurations.
● Light Gauge Saddles – are designed to wrap securely around conduits, providing precise support for the wiring system Featuring a BZP (bright zinc plated) coating, these saddles are resistant to rust and oxidation, ensuring long-term durability
● Inspection Bends – allow you to join two pieces of conduit tube for changes in direction (usually 90° or 45° angles) with an inspection window to check/access cables
● Metal Hooks – diecast screwed metal hooks are included in the range for suspending cables or light fittings
Key features and benefits of Unicrimp’s new Q-Crimp Conduit Accessories include:
Cable protection
Protecting electrical cables from physical damage, moisture, and chemical exposure, ensuring longevity and safety
Durable materials
Manufactured from galvanised steel, they
are designed to resist corrosion and environmental stress
Heat resistance
High-quality conduit accessories can handle high temperatures, making them suitable for industrial and commercial applications
Ease of installation
Innovative designs reduce installation time
Safety
By securing conduits and providing smooth connections, they help prevent electrical hazards
Organisation
Accessories like saddles and junction boxes contribute to neat, organised wiring systems, making maintenance and upgrades significantly easier
Compliance
Conduit accessories ensure that installations comply with safety regulations and standards, such as IET Wiring Regulations
Versatility
They can be used in a wide range of environments, from residential to industrial applications, indoors and outdoors.
Quality assurance
As with all Unicrimp products, the new conduit accessories are manufactured in accordance with Scolmore Group’s defined set of criteria and meet the requirements for the market for which they are intended
This is achieved in several ways by utilising recognised third party test houses to carry out compliance testing and performing regular routine maintenance/inspection of the products and manufacturing facilities.
All products are batch coded for improved traceability and, should any issues arise, there is the added reassurance of the back-up of the Scolmore Group technical department
BROWSE THE FULL UNICRIMP RANGE OF CONDUIT ACCESSORIES BY VISITING:
Cable management has a critical role to play in the fire safety of a building. Terry Adams, Technical Services Manager at Marshall-Tufflex, explains the steps that must be taken to ensure compliance with the regulations and avoid premature cable collapse in the event of a fire.
FIGHTING THE FIRES
The correct specification and installation of cable management systems is essential Where cable management systems fail due to the intense heat of a fire, the falling and fallen cables present a serious hazard to both those evacuating and firefighters moving through the building In fact, there have been several high-profile fires where firefighters lost their lives when they became caught in the cables and were unable to escape
Tightened regulations
As a result, Regulation 521 10 202 of the 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) requires that all cables be adequately supported using non-combustible fixings. This means that all cables need to be fixed to a fire-resistant element of the building using a material that can resist temperatures of 1,000°C for up to 120 minutes It is also important to remember that it is ALL cables, rather than just those on escape routes as was required in the previous edition
One way to achieve this is to utilise
steel cable management systems The 18th Edition states that: ‘cables installed in or on steel containment systems are deemed to meet the requirements of this regulation’ This is because, depending on the composition of the steel, it will have a melting point of between 1,200ºC and 1,500ºC, easily meeting the minimum for the containment of cables in a fire
The other approved route to compliance is through the use of steel clips, cleats or ties to fix the cables to the fabric of the building These should be installed using fire resistant fixings, such as masonry screws and metal cavity fixings. Plastic wall plugs can melt in the heat of the fire and cause the cables to fall
There are different clip options depending on the type of cable management system in use For conduit and mini trunking there are
clips available that fit over the containment and are secured to the wall For perimeter trunking there are several options for fixing the cables to the wall within the trunking
However, to streamline the process it is worth looking at whether the manufacturer of the trunking can supply clips specifically designed for its products. For example, Marshall-Tufflex’s Firefly clips are formed to the shape of the compartment, allowing easy installation and making securing the cables simple
Beyond ensuring the cables are secured, there are specific installation factors that need to be considered to ensure compliance The Wiring Regulations reference the BEAMA guide Prevention of Premature Collapse: A Guide to the Design, Installation and Inspection of Cable Management Systems for specific guidance on the fire safe installations
An important consideration covered by the guide is ensuring the placement of the clips complies with the maximum permitted movement of cables in the event of a fire This is to prevent entanglement, even if the cables are technically secured to the wall.
The guidance divides the room into three zones – Zone C (up to 800 mm above the floor), Zone A (800 mm to 2,100 mm) and Zone B (above 2,100 mm) The maximum vertical movement of horizontal cable runs in Zones A and C is 300 mm Cables installed in Zone B must not be able to drop into Zone A or drop below a height of 2,100 mm from the floor For vertical cable runs they must not move out from the wall by more than 150 mm
Additionally, cables should not be installed less than 300 mm above a door and 150 mm either side This is to prevent the doorway being obstructed as well as allowing free opening of the door. Wiring to door services, such as alarms and sensors, is allowed but must be kept to a minimum and take the shortest path through the zone
Simple compliance
These requirements are relatively simple to comply with as it is just a case of fitting clips at the correct intervals along the cable The more that are fitted along the length of the cable run, the less it will move, either vertically or horizontally
The importance of cable management in ensuring fire safety should not be underestimated, and compliance with the requirements laid out in the Wiring Regulations is vital to prevent injury and loss of life
Leading manufacturers such as Marshall-Tufflex can provide the products and guidance required
ALL’S WELL WITH CUTTERWELL
A familiar range of high-quality cable management products has taken on a new name, but customers can expect the same dependable standards they’ve relied on for decades. Here we find out more about the Cutterwell offering.
Cutterwell is the new brand behind the extensive portfolio formerly produced under Mita and Schneider Electric, now manufactured by the same skilled team at the same site in Flint, North Wales.
The rebrand follows the acquisition of the Flint extrusion, moulding and assembly site by Goodfish Group, giving rise to Cutterwell, a business with a clear mission: to supply the UK electrical wholesale market with reliable well-made cable management systems supported by consistent stock, accurate product data and responsive service
Unified products under one brand Many across the electrical industry will recognise the Flint facility as the original home of Mita cable management. Under Cutterwell that legacy continues unchanged, with over 3,000 products now unified under one brand
This includes perimeter trunking systems such as Ultimate, Cableline, Consort, Delta, Carlton and the AT Series, along with TRK heavy-duty trunking, EM1W–EM5W mini trunking (also available in self-adhesive versions), conduit and fittings and multi-compartment floor boxes and power poles
Importantly, the transition has been designed to be as smooth as possible for wholesalers and contractors. All existing
product codes have been retained, removing the need to relabel shelves or relearn catalogues Cutterwell also provides a comprehensive ‘Buyers Guide’ featuring technical specifications, product indexes and visual references to streamline selection and ordering.
“From day one our focus has been continuity,” says Richard Beale, Managing Director at Cutterwell
With over 25 years in the electrical and construction manufacturing sector including senior roles at Marshall-Tufflex and Honeywell, Richard brings a wealth of industry insight to the brand
“We’ve preserved the range, the quality, the team and enhanced the customer experience with better processes and a more focused identity ”
A key part of that customer experience is the Cutterwell Portal, a digital platform designed specifically for the UK wholesale market With real-time stock visibility, simplified ordering and access to product data, the portal helps streamline procurement and project planning
Manufacturing remains firmly rooted in Flint where operations continue to ensure rigorous standards in quality, environmental responsibility and workplace safety
Cutterwell’s UK-based production model allows for short supply chains, lower transport emissions and tight control over stock and waste
management, part of a broader strategy to reduce environmental impact.
As the electrical industry adapts to a more digital sustainability-conscious future, Cutterwell is evolving with it, backed by the experience of a team that understands the demands of the trade and the importance of delivering products that work on-site and on-time.
Cutterwell is more than a new name, it’s a renewed commitment to UK wholesalers and the customers they serve
EXPLORE THE FULL PRODUCT RANGE OR REGISTER FOR THE ONLINE PORTAL AT:
THE CABLE GUYS
With a heritage that spans nearly seven decades, Batt Cables is a name that will be familiar to many readers. Here we catch up with Chris Coxon, Marketing Director, to find out more about the company’s recent expansion and what it can offer to electrical professionals.
QBatt
Cables is the longestestablished cables distributor in the UK, with roots dating back to 1952. How has the company evolved over the decades, and how does that heritage inform the brand today?
The consistent factor, or golden thread if you like, has been Batt’s commitment to customer service excellence This was instilled by the company founders and continues today
The growth that this provided enabled expansion into Europe during the 2000s and latterly the USA A change of ownership in 2023 has signalled an increase in the pace of development so that the business is well equipped for the next chapters
QYou recently unveiled a new brand identity and vision. Can you tell us more about what ‘electrify the world’ and becoming the ‘Go-To choice for cable solutions’ means in practice – for your team and your customers?
‘Electrify the world’ is our purpose, it’s why Batt exists Cables play a crucial role in making buildings and projects work It’s a global industry; together with our customers, we enable projects all over the world Plus, the drive towards renewable
energy and electrification is huge!
We want to build on Batt’s existing reputation for service and trustworthiness, develop our proposition and take it to a wider audience That’s what ‘Go-To choice for cable solutions’ means
QThe
opening of your new 250,000 sq. ft logistics centre in Doncaster marks a significant investment. What role does this facility play in Batt’s long-term growth strategy and service offering?
The Doncaster site is a key part of our plans because it gives us more capacity for future growth Greater capacity means more stockholding of existing and potentially new product lines, which can enhance our service offering
Doncaster is a new build, ‘clean sheet’ facility with no legacy systems, so it’s ideal for optimising operational efficiency as well.
QWith
over 3,200 products in stock and a strong focus on rapid delivery, how is Batt Cables ensuring it meets the evolving needs of contractors and installers?
We’ve spent a considerable amount of time and effort understanding and documenting customer needs, which vary
from sector to sector. These insights have been incorporated into our proposition development for those customers.
We have a robust ‘voice of the customer’ programme ongoing, which, combined with increasing our agility and flexibility, will ensure we’re trusted business partners for contractors and installers
QOur ability to supply specialist cables in large quantities for different sectors is important, as is holding stock for customers
Governance and compliance is needed
to demonstrate that cables meet the required specifications, while supply chain sustainability is a prerequisite for contractors with project and business ESG targets to meet All these things and more make up sector propositions
QWhat technologies or systems are you implementing in the new logistics hub to enhance supply chain efficiency and customer experience?
In terms of operational efficiency and customer service, making sure we carry the right stock is vital So we’ve invested in an AIpowered inventory management system to help us do just that.
Plus, all the mechanical handling equipment is electric to reduce our CO2 emissions and provide a better working environment for colleagues
QHow important is it for Batt to support local job creation and skills development as you grow, particularly with the 50 new roles being created at the Doncaster site?
Supporting local communities is an important part of sustainability and minimising our carbon footprint. We’ve had a fantastic response to our recruitment campaign in and around Doncaster, which shows that the new jobs are welcome and needed
QLooking ahead, what’s next for Batt Cables? Are there particular markets, technologies, or customer segments you’re especially focused on as part of your expansion journey? We’ve got lots going on as we implement our strategic plans
We’re committed to supporting wholesalers and working in partnership for mutual benefit Technical support is an area where we can add more value to wholesale, commercial and industrial projects as the construction market grows.
We’ll continue to evolve our estate, so that we’re in the right place to serve our customers Additionally, training and upskilling our own staff is a priority so that we can deliver more added value
THAT’LL BE THE TRAY
Can you achieve smarter cable management with LINIAN’s new Cable Tray Clip?
With today’s fast-paced installations, speed, safety, and compliance are critical
Fortunately, LINIAN’s Cable Tray Clip delivers on all fronts
Designed for rapid, tool-free installation, this innovative clip secures cables directly to trays with minimal fuss, reducing labour time and improving on-site efficiency.
As installation standards tighten across the UK and ROI, particularly in light of updated BS 7671 regulations on wiring systems, fire safety-rated supports like LINIAN’s are fast becoming essential These clips are non-corrosive, fire-resistant, and engineered to meet the demands of modern, compliant installations
With the increasing emphasis on sustainable and low-waste products, LINIAN’s tool-free, single-component solutions align perfectly with the shift toward leaner, greener construction practices
Simply attach the side of the clip that has gripping teeth under the tray’s return edge and attach the opposite side under the opposite return edge Done!
No plugs, no screws, and no waste
MAKING CONNECTIONS
The
team at IDEAL
Electrical give us the full rundown on three top tools that you can turn to when you’re looking for fast, reliable cable terminations.
In the fast-paced world of electrical installation, efficiency and reliability are everything IDEAL Electrical has long been a trusted name among professionals, with wire termination solutions that continue to set the highest standard for innovation and ease of use
Here, we spotlight three standout products that are transforming how electricians connect wires – saving time without compromising safety or performance
1. Lever Connectors –
Flexible, reusable, and secure
IDEAL’s Lever Connectors offer a versatile solution for joining solid and stranded conductors With a simple lift-and-lock mechanism, these connectors allow for quick installation and easy re-entry – ideal for both temporary setups and future modifications
Available in 2, 3, and 5 port configurations, they’re perfect for tight spaces and retrofit jobs. The transparent housing lets you visually confirm the connection, while the compact design ensures minimal clutter in junction boxes
The SpliceLine connector is a game-changer for tool free in-line splicing Designed for solid and stranded wires, it
eliminates the need for twisting or crimping Just push the wires in, and the patented push-in technology does the rest
Its slim profile makes it ideal for retrofit applications, especially in tight or crowded enclosures. Rated for up to 32 A and 450 V, SpliceLine connectors meet the demands of modern installations while simplifying the process
3. Push-In Connectors –Fast, reliable, and cost-effective For everyday terminations, IDEAL’s Push-In Connectors are a go-to choice. These connectors are designed for solid and stranded wires, offering a secure connection with minimal effort Simply strip the wire and push it in – no twisting and no tools
company has equipped generations of electricians with high quality tools and supplies, from wire connectors and test equipment to hand tools and lubricants
Available in multiple port configurations, they’re perfect for lighting circuits, receptacles, and other common applications The compact design and clear housing make inspection easy, while the colour-coded ports help to streamline identification
A century of trust and innovation
IDEAL Electrical is more than a product manufacturer – it’s a legacy brand built on over 100 years of dedication to the electrical trade
As part of IDEAL Industries, Inc , the
With a global footprint – including a dedicated European site in Warrington –IDEAL supports professionals across the continent with local distribution, technical support, and a commitment to quality
Products have been trusted in extreme environments, from Antarctic expeditions and lunar missions to Formula 1 garages and the Burj Khalifa With over 2,200 tools and supplies in the portfolio, IDEAL continues to earn its place in the tool bags of those who power our world
JACK OF ALL TRADES
Every now and then, a product comes along that makes you wonder whether you can lighten the load in your tool bag The KNIPEX 13 76 200 ME Wire Stripper is one o those tools.
I’ve seen a few of the older versions floating around job sites, so when I got the chance to put this updated metric version through its paces, I jumped at it KNIPEX has built a solid reputation for quality and precision, so I had high expectations This model is no different –it’s got the feel of a premium tool the second you pick it up
The positioning ridges make it easy to seat the cable just right before you strip, which saves a lot of faffing about – especially when you’re working in awkward positions
Cutting performance is impressive too
The innovative cutting geometry makes light work of copper and aluminium cables up to Ø 15 mm, which means ou can handle bigger cables ke meter tails without hunting for another tool Flat cables are particularly easy to deal with thanks to the way the blades bite in cleanly without crushing
Extra features for real jobs
Weighing in at 290 g and measuring 200 mm in length, the unit sits nicely in the hand The VDE-tested, multi-component insulated grips are comfortable and give confidence when working on live circuits within the rated standards
Design and functionality
The first thing you’ll notice is its hybrid design – it’s as slim as a set of needle-nose pliers for getting into tight spots, but the head is wide enough to give it the stability of combination pliers That’s a clever balance, and it’s clear that the design team has thought about real-world use
The wire stripping profiles are sharply ground, allowing clean and precise stripping of solid conductors from 0 75 mm² to 6 mm² and fine-stranded conductors from 0 5 mm² to 4 mm²
Beyond stripping and cutting, you get wide, cross-hatched gripping surfaces that are perfect for twisting wires together, a milled groove for securely holding or pulling small pieces like nails, and a convex surface for gripping flat materials There’s even a deburring edge on the outer side for tidying up pipes – a small but handy bonus
On the job
I’ve put this tool through a mix of tasks –stripping connectors, cutting larger cables, and some fiddly work in a consumer unit – and every time it has been up to the job
The grips go right to the tip now, which is an improvement over previous versions and the cutting section’s size means fewer passes when dealing with chunkier cables Now, can it truly replace your side
For this product review, Graham Anslow of Anslow Electrical, gets the opportunity to try out the updated KNIPEX 13 76 200 ME Wire Stripper.
cutters, pliers, copper cutters, and long-nose pliers? For me – almost, but not quite. It’s not going to completely empty out your toolbox, but it has earned a permanent place in my tool kit as a lightweight, versatile backup
For smaller jobs, testing, or when you’re working somewhere you don’t want to lug the whole kit, these are spot on
Verdict
This is a brilliantly executed all-rounder which boasts all the hallmarks of KNIPEX’s trademark build quality. If you value versatility and want a multi-functional tool you can trust, this product is well worth adding to your arsenal
THE LONG GAME
Michael Akinla, Manager North Europe at Panduit, utilises the company’s latest research to ponder the benefits of extending Power over Ethernet cable to 150metres for large site security needs.
Twisted pair copper structured cabling – a reliable and affordable media to deploy Ethernet networks and external connected security and safety systems – are essential in the operation of all large buildings and campus sites The larger the site, the more expensive the infrastructure to support those systems is likely to be.
Cable channel length limitations
A key element in the alignment of cable standardisation and application is the limitation of 100-metres as the maximum cabling channel length
For more than two decades, the 100 m limit has been a cornerstone of Ethernet networking over twisted pair copper cabling. This standard, established in the late 1990s, has served the industry well, providing a reliable benchmark for network design and implementation
However, as technology advances and network demands evolve, there's growing interest in pushing beyond this traditional boundary – primarily driven by the need to extend Ethernet networks and connect devices like security cameras, wireless access points, and access control systems
Panduit’s recently published white paper – Extending Copper Reach –looks at 150m POE copper with 1 gigabit capacity and found it offers a cost-effective alternative to installing additional intermediate distribution frames, consolidation points or transitioning to fibre Extending copper reach simplifies infrastructure and reduces costs while maintaining reliability and simplicity However, there are some additional considerations that need making:
1 Cable selection
Use higher-category cables, like Category 6 or 6A, with larger conductors (e.g., 22 AWG). These cables exhibit lower insertion loss and enhanced signal integrity over extended distances
2 Performance standards
Choose cabling that meets or exceeds industry standards for parameters like insertion loss, near-end crosstalk (NEXT), and return loss, which are critical for data transmission quality over longer runs
3. Power over Ethernet (PoE) compatibility
Ensure cabling supports the required PoE standards, especially for devices that need power delivery over the same cable and should accommodate the power levels necessary for devices like IP cameras and access points
Furthermore, professionals should consider installation best practice and deploy appropriately for the installation environments Ensure the cabling and connectors can withstand conditions such as temperature variations, moisture, and electromagnetic interference
Moreover, proper grounding and bonding are essential to protect the network from electrical surges and to minimise noise interference, thereby ensuring reliable performance
You should also conduct thorough testing of the extended cabling channels
F ig 3 150 m channel Delay Skew (140-metre 22 AWG Cat 6 cable, plus 10-metre 24 AWG Cat 6 patch cords)
to confirm they meet performance specifications This includes assessing parameters like insertion loss, propagation delay, and resistance unbalance Through the use of industry-standard testing devices you can ensure accurate measurements and reliable validation of the cabling infrastructure
P r o p a g a t
1 5 0 m c h a n n
s i x p a i r c
d e l a y s ke w l
b e t w e e n t h
( Pa i r 7, 8 ) i s m a r g i n a l l y b e y o n d t h e l i m i t b y 3 n s
w i s t
Panduit is confident that due to strong overall performance of the cable and based on extensive application testing, this 150 m channel will support 1000BASE-T
While extending cabling beyond 100m is feasible, surpassing the tested 150 m channel length can lead to signal degradation and unreliable network performance. Our stringent testing found that 140 m PL of 22 AWG Cat 6 or Cat 6 A, coupled with 10 m 24AWG Cat 6 or 6 A patch cords provided consistent performance
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Panduit creates leading-edge physical, electrical, network infrastructure and AV solutions for enterprise-wide environments – from data centres to telecom rooms, from the desktop to the plant floor
BROWSE OR DOWNLOAD THE PANDUIT
EXTENDING COPPER REACH WHITE PAPER AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR028
BROWSE PANDUIT’S FULL RANGE OF PRODUCTS AND SOLUTIONS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR068
KEEP ON TRAK
prefabricated suspension systems are transforming modern construction – saving time, cutting costs, and improving safety while supporting the industry's drive towards a more sustainable future.
For decades, contractors have put their trust in traditional rod and strut methods to suspend, contain and manage electrical services. But as the industry faces tighter timelines and budgets, stricter safety standards and rising sustainability concerns, do traditional methods meet the modern demands of today?
The evolution of suspension systems
At the turn of the 20th century, electrical services were suspended with none other than cloth or string However, this simple method wasn’t without its risks due to the materials being in direct contact with the cables, creating a potential fire hazard
With the aim of eliminating safety issues, the mid-century saw the arrival of cable trays and threaded rod and strut which signalled a transformation for suspension It offered safer, easier cable management and minimal visual impact in exposed ceiling environments, like hospitals and data centres.
Still to this day, cable trays suspended with rod and strut remain the go-to system But as construction evolves, its supporting systems must evolve too Today’s challenges demand even more
On-site efficiency
Threaded rod and strut installation can be time-consuming and demand skilled
labour Each piece must be cut to length –often estimated visually, increasing the margin for error – then drilled, bracketed and fixed on-site.
Prefabricated suspension systems arrive on-site, ready to install, cutting out those unnecessary steps An antidote to the current skilled labour shortage, their pre-cut tracks, tool-free installation and ease of use has been proven to slash labour hours by more than half when compared to the use of traditional threaded rod and strut
Threaded rod, typically supplied in lengths of up to three metres, can be bulky and awkward to transport and store, often requiring HGV delivery and increased site handling Most prefabricated solutions are lightweight and compact, making them courier-friendly, and easy to handle, even in bulk
Safety first
It will come as no surprise that working at height remains one of the highest-risk activities in the industry. Modern prefabricated systems greatly reduce this risk, thanks to their ready-to-use design which means far less time spent off the ground
They also remove the need for a hot works permit, avoiding the on-site cutting often required with traditional suspension installs With health and safety regulations
a top priority for construction professionals, the adoption of these modern methods helps maintain compliance with ease.
Sustainability matters
Sustainability is no longer optional in construction, as the industry looks to a greener future Part L of the UK Building Regulations is one example of a key regulation that encourages the use of energy-efficient materials and systems in construction – part of its broader strategy to meet Net-Zero by 2050
Modern systems, like the Gripple Fast Trak, use significantly less embodied carbon, and recent data shows that for every metre of Gripple wire rope used in place of threaded rod, there is an estimated saving of 1 2 kg in embodied carbon That’s all thanks to reduced transport requirements, minimal packaging, the elimination of hot works, and little to no waste – all of which contribute to a lower environmental impact.
As the industry evolves, the shift from traditional to prefabricated suspension systems is more than just a product upgrade; it’s the driver for greater project efficiency, safety and sustainability
BROWSE THE GRIPPLE FAST TRAK RANGE BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR029
ELEX 2025
YOU’RE IN SAFE HANDS
In this article, Nigel Birch, Head of UK Sales & Key Accounts at Contactum, highlights a number of key solutions that make the brand a definitive choice for installations where safety, reliability, and peace of mind are priorities.
Contactum’s commitment to safety is at the heart of the brand’s product innovation, offering solutions that give contractors, installers, and end-users complete peace of mind.
Lockable sockets help prevent unauthorised use and enhance site security, while the Defender range with key lock camlock provides robust protection in demanding environments where controlled access is essential
These features safeguard equipment and ensure compliance with stringent safety standards – a smart choice for projects where reliability and security cannot be compromised.
The Metal Clad range, for example, is engineered to perform in the toughest environments, making it ideal for both commercial and domestic installations
Finished with a high-quality epoxy powder coating, the range includes switches, sockets, and specialist Red Key Switch products, perfect for applications such as fire or burglar alarm panels
With the added availability of RCD sockets and spurs, this range combines strength, functionality, and safety, delivering a robust solution for challenging installation environments
The ultimate in safety and protection Contactum offers a comprehensive range of products designed to deliver maximum safety and protection across any installation
The Weatherproof range is the trusted choice for outdoor environments or areas exposed to dust and water, combining durability with total reliability Surface and flush-mounted, with their IP66 and IP55 rating, they comply with BS EN 60529, and the 20 A switching with BS EN 60669-1. These units are designed and manufactured to withstand the toughest conditions, while the option to fit a padlock adds an extra layer of security, making them ideal for both residential and commercial applications
Complementing this, RCD sockets provide critical protection against electrical faults Engineered to quickly disconnect power, they help prevent electric shocks and reduce the risk of fire
KEY BENEFITS OF CONTACTUM PRODUCTS
Comprehensive product range
Including circuit protection devices, wiring accessories, and consumer units, providing electricians with a one-stop solution for various installation needs
Enhanced safety features
With products certified to the latest UK and international electrical standards and independently type-tested by accredited third-party laboratories, guaranteeing verified compliance and peace of mind
Durability and reliability
Ease of installation
Contactum's wiring accessories are designed for easy and efficient installation, saving electricians time and effort on-site
BROWSE CONTACTUM’S FULL RANGE OF PRODUCTS AND SOLUTIONS AT:
SMOOTH CORD PROGRESSION
QHow have things been going with Cord EV since we caught up with you last year? Have you made any significant in-roads/developments in the UK EV installer market?
It’s been a busy year We’ve grown rapidly in both consumer and trade channels, with UK revenue now exceeding £3 5 million In the installer market, we’ve built a national network of approved partners who meet our own “Cord Accredited” standards from NICEIC/NAPIT certification through to SIP accreditation.
We’ve also rolled out an installer hub, technical support service, and an installer App to make specifying and commissioning our chargers faster and simpler That’s been a real driver of loyalty among trade customers who want to work with brands tha make their job easier
QWhat challenges have you faced in educating consumers and installers about the benefits of your product features, like the interchangeable Wi-Fi/4G connectivity?
The biggest challenge is cutting through the noise
Many consumers focus on price and power output, without realising the realworld impact of “always-on” connectivity especially for smart tariffs, remote diagnostics, expense tracking and overthe-air updates
With installers, the hurdle is time They’re busy, so we’ve worked on delivering quick, clear explanations, backed up by practical examples: if a customer’s home Wi-Fi drops out, the charger automatically switches to 4G, meaning fewer call-backs and happier customers. Once they see that, they get it instantly.
QCan you share any insights or data you've gathered from early adopters of the Cord Zero charger? What surprised u most about their feedback?
One thing that stood out is how quickly people embraced the solar integration features even customers who didn’t have panels yet liked that the capability was “ready to go ”
We’ve also seen very high engagement with the new Cord App, particularly the tariff scheduling tools
In terms of hard data, over 70% of users have set at least ne smart charging schedule,
We put the questions to James Hylton, Co-founder of Cord EV, to hear how the brand is progressing in its mission to make EV charging “positively easy.”
which shows that drivers are actively looking to optimise charging costs The surprise for us has been just how much customers value build quality and aesthetics; “looks good on the wall” came up in a lot more feedback than we expected
QWhat
role do partnerships – such as the one with Halfords – play in your long-term growth strategy? Have you managed to forge similar relationships with wholesaler customers?
Partnerships are central to our strategy
Being in Halfords actually helps our trade and wholesale customers recommend Cord in a crowded marketplace with many brands consumers aren’t aware of
On the wholesaler side, we’re working
with several national and regional players, providing not just product but also POS displays, compatibility checkers, and installer training
Our goal is to be the “positively easy” choice wherever customers go to buy their charger whether that’s from a retail store, an online marketplace, or a trade counter
QGiven your experience in the battery industry, how do you see synergies between EV chargers and home energy storage systems developing?
The link is getting stronger every year As EV adoption grows, more households are looking at how to use their car, home solar, and battery storage as a single energy ecosystem Chargers like the Cord Zero already integrate with solar PV and home batteries and eventually vehicle-to-home/grid.
My background in batteries gives me a strong belief increasingly e these system together seam and the bra that can deliv that integratio simply will win.
QWhatinitiative is Cord EV exp support the co market, which different char from domestic
focusing on lutions that give fleets maximum flexibility with minimal upfront ost Our new Cord IRA portable rger has been a ut, especially for who want home the unrecoverable expense of installing fixed units By plugging into a standard 32 A CEE socket, drivers can get 7.4 kW charging at home, while the same unit can be used on sites with temporary power or no permanent charging infrastructure
We’ve also built automated mileage reimbursement into the Cord App, making it easy for fleet managers to track and recover home charging costs without extra admin
Looking ahead, we’re developing energy flexibility services that could allow fleets to earn revenue by supporting the grid during peak demand
QDo you have any significant developments coming in the future that you’d like to share with readers?
There’s plenty in the pipeline Over the next 12 months we’ll launch our brushed aluminium Cord Zero models and expand the range with three-phase versions, alongside a smart-enabled 4G Cord EVIRA portable charger ng out our form, which n money by in grid events, and ng smart tegration with pular options like OVO Anytime and Intelligent Octopus Go p users atically at the times that, we’re
EVIRA: ONE PRODUCT, MULTIPLE USES
Cord’s most recent launch is EVIRA a professional grade portable charger that transforms any CEE Commando socket into a superfast EV charging point
Designed for trade professionals, fleet operators, workshops and site teams, EVIRA delivers up to ten times faster charging than a standard 3-pin “granny” charger with no installation, no landlord permissions, no groundworks and no wall mounting required
Four versions are available:
● Multi-power model (2 3 kW → 22 kW) with interchangeable plug set for 3-pin and CEE commando sockets
● 22 kW (1 phase 32 A CEE)
● 11 kW (3 phase 16 A CEE)
● 7.4 kW (3 phase 32 A CEE)
EVIRA is smarter, safer, more adaptable and features adjustable current (8 A –32 A), a delay start timer for off-peak charging, and a set charge amount function to control energy delivery by kWh or session time.
The built-in LCD screen shows voltage, current, power, energy delivered and elapsed time in real-time
Built for even the harshest environments, EVIRA is IK10 impact-resistant, IP65 weatherproof, operates from -40 °C to +80 °C, and comes with a two-year warranty
Its multi-layer safety system includes overcurrent, AC and DC leakage, over-temperature, surge, ground and over/under voltage protection
developing “energy health check” tools to show customers how much they could save by switching tariff, adding solar, or installing home battery storage
All of it is designed to make EV charging and clean energy positively easy
BROWSE THE FULL RANGE OF PRODUCTS FROM CORD EV AT:
In this article, Julian Grant, General Manager at Chauvin Arnoux UK, shares practical tips to help you take control of your energy use and save significant amounts on your bills.
EVERY WATT MATTERS
Energy costs have skyrocketed over the last few years and though there have been price falls in the UK since 2023, charges are still significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels – according to a recent report by the House of Commons Library. This makes saving energy more than just a good idea; it’s essential But how can organisations and building managers actually achieve it?
Before diving into specific energy-saving measures, it’s worth making a general point: what you can’t measure, you can’t control This is especially true for energy
If you’re responsible for energy usage or monitoring at your workplace, it’s more important than ever to revisit measures you may have postponed or overlooked that could now offer significant savings
A practical first step is to invest in a power and energy logger such as the Chauvin Arnoux PEL113 range.
Modestly priced, a PEL quickly pays for itself by providing detailed insights into your energy usage It can be temporarily installed at various points in your electrical system to show exactly where, when, and how much energy is being consumed
It also provides insights into power
quality, a factor that directly impacts energy costs
Begin with observing out-of-hours usage
One of the easiest ways to cut energy bills is to observe out-of-hours usage, which often accounts for more wasted energy than any other single factor.
While lights left on during out of working hours are an obvious source of energy waste, other sources such as heating, office equipment, and computers running outside operating hours, can be harder to detect
With a PEL you can monitor energy use in real time The insights it provides make
it simple to identify waste and implement changes that save energy and money On the basis of these consumption reports, simple steps like adding time switches or occupancy sensors can lead to substantial energy savings
Track and measure your lighting
Monitor motor-driven equipment usage
Once you’ve measured general energy usage, it’s worth focusing on motor-driven equipment, such as air-con systems
When using a three-phase PEL, keep a close eye on these motors. Many are designed to run at full speed continuously, but in most cases, reducing their speed has little or no impact on performance
This is significant because cutting the speed of a standard induction motor by just 20% can reduce its energy use by up to 50% Adding variable speed drives to such equipment can therefore be a smart and cost-effective investment
Run power quality checks
Another key factor in boosting energy efficiency is power quality One of the most important measures here is the power factor, which can be easily monitored with a PEL
Many devices use reactive power, which adds to your energy bill without performing useful work, but improving your power factor can fix this Installing power factor correction devices helps make your energy use more efficient, cutting waste and lowering your bills in the process
While looking at power quality measures, it may also be worth looking
into your PEL results for phase imbalance and harmonics
Phase imbalance is straightforward: if you’re working with a three-phase electrical supply, as most larger installations do, you may expect the voltage on all three phases to be identical But in reality, small differences are common, often just by a few percent
It might seem minor, but even a 2% voltage imbalance in a motor circuit can push the current in the affected phase up by 20% The outcome? This leads to overheating in the motor and noticeably higher energy bills.
Finally, there’s one more area worth a closer look: harmonics These are currents at frequencies that are whole number multiples of the supply frequency For example, with a 50 Hz supply, harmonic frequencies would be 100 Hz, 150 Hz, 200 Hz, 250 Hz and so on
Harmonics are mainly generated by electronic devices like computer power supplies, variable speed drives, and LED lighting controllers. They can cause a range of issues, including extra heating in cables and equipment And that extra heat isn’t free – you’re effectively paying for the energy it consumes
Identifying and managing harmonics is therefore another effective way to cut energy usage and reduce business and/or facility management costs
BROWSE CHAUVIN ARNOUX’S RANGE OF POWER AND ENERGY LOGGERS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR033
I CAN SEE CLEARLY
Joshua Hammerton, Co-founder at Enkin, takes a closer look at visual
a new tool in the electrician’s arsenal.
For decades, electricians have relied on practical skills, hands-on expertise, problem solving and a deep knowledge of electrical systems However, a new reality has emerged with digital tools starting to transform the industry.
New digital solutions such as visual rendering technology offer untapped opportunities and tools for electricians to boost customer interactions, improve job efficiency and expand their offering
Why do people use this technology?
Electricians (and lighting designers, architects and engineers) use visual rendering technology to help them plan, test and visualise how lighting will look in a real space before installation It can help technically with brightness and coverage, and aesthetically with look and feel, before physical wiring and fixtures installation takes place
In today’s fast-paced digital world end users desire this reassurance Being able to present customers with a visual of their finished room provides immediate peace of mind and clarity.
Thanks to recent advancements in visual rendering and the increasing accessibility of these tools, electricians and installers now have a powerful new resource at their fingertips
By inputting details such as switch types, socket layouts and lighting configurations into rendering software, it's now possible to generate highly realistic 3D visualisations of an installation before a single cable is even run.
This technology offers real benefits on-site and during the planning stages Installers can collaborate with clients to confirm the exact placement, height, and style of electrical fixtures, right down to assessing how the lighting will look in the finished space
These conversations, traditionally left until late in the process or resolved on the spot, can now happen upfront. That means fewer delays, fewer questions during installation, and a much smoother workflow overall
While basic visual planning tools have existed for some time, they were often limited in both quality and availability, typically used by a small number of specialist firms Today, a greater number of electricians can access these systems at a lower cost, with vastly improved results.
The visual finish is sharper, more detailed and far more representative of the end product This helps clients make well-informed decisions and helps tradespeople provide a service with greater accuracy It’s a mutually beneficial situation for everyone involved
rendering technology:
What are the benefits?
The software creates a virtual 3D environment to realistically simulate and test different lighting fixtures, colours, socket layouts and lighting intensities within a digital space before implementation in a real-world setting This makes it significantly easier for clients to visualise the end result
All parties are able to get a realistic preview of the final space design, eliminating guesswork It also improves efficiency, allowing for quick and easy experimentation with different lighting options and socket/switches.
Furthermore, client communication is improved through a clear conversation, showing precisely how their space will look and feel
BROWSE
ALL FLOOD, NO FEARS
highlights the key things that you should be considering when specifying a new floodlight.
Floodlights serve a very specific purpose, delivering a broad beam of light that is high-intensity. Ideal for large areas such as stadiums, car parks and logistics centres, they provide a broad and evenly-distributed illumination
As floodlights are installed outside, exposed to even the most arduous of conditions, they need to be incredibly robust This ensures they can offer reliable performance, even when situated in demanding environments.
The importance of IP and IK ratings To guarantee this high quality and durability, it is important to look for IP and IK ratings IP66 and IK08 will ensure protection from water and dust ingress, alongside high resilience against impact To bolster this further, selecting a floodlight that offers C4 corrosion resistance will deliver even greater protection from the elements.
Other specifications to look for that extends service life include a breather membrane with silicone sealing ring, which
prevents water build-up and condensation – protecting electrical components for an extended lifetime.
An ability to operate within a wide range of temperatures is also hugely beneficial For example, the Floodlight Area Gen 2 range from LEDVANCE can function between -30°C to +50°C This means it will still deliver light even in the most extreme of temperatures
aluminium for the frame and housing.
Focusing on sustainability is where specifying a high efficiency solution will also reap benefits with regards to energy savings Opting for a floodlight that delivers up to 150 lm/W will maximise the opportunities for energy savings
Make an informed decision
In addition, the flat tempered glass cover allows safe illumination without light pollution; with a ULOR 0% at 0°.
Notwithstanding the need to remove glare, floodlights still need to be able to direct light where it is actually needed
Flexible friends
Look for floodlights that have a flexible bracket with wide rotation, as this will enable easy and accurate installation
To further add to adaptability, modern floodlights offer a multi-lumen function with adjustable brightness levels that can be easily adjusted via a dip switch This allows on-site changes and simplifies planning
For those applications where sustainability is a priority, floodlights can play a role in securing this For example, the Floodlight Area Gen 2 range is manufactured using 100% recycled
Looking at all of these factors, it’s clear to see there is much more to floodlights than just bright light that operates even in challenging weather conditions.
By making a considered choice, projects can also benefit from sustainable solutions that create comfortable environments, and offer on-site adaptability
When it comes to quality EV charging products and solutions, it’s common knowledge that much of the hard work takes place in the background. Here we learn more about how Sevadis’ enhanced back-office is improving the EV experience for the brand’s customers.
THE SPARK BEHIND SUCCESS
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As result of the subsequent upgrades to the Monta platform, the company has significantly reduced support tickets, accelerated onboarding, empowered customer independence, and improved issue resolution to real-time.
Quick issue resolution
I n e m p i r i c a l t e r m s , c l o u d - r e l a t e d s u p p o r t
t i c ke t s h a v e r e d u c e d b y 7 8 % ;
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q u i c ke r i s s u e r e s o l u t i o n c a p a b i l i t i e s .
While all Sevadis chargers conform to Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) standards – which allow use with a range of compatible management and billing software, providing customers with greater choice of flexibility and agility – Monta is its preferred back-office partner
Since 2016, Sevadis has been at the forefront of EV charging solutions in the
UK, supplying, installing, and supporting EV charge points for residential developments, commercial sites, and individual customers
With a commitment to quality and innovation, the brand is the trusted choice for top industry names like British Airways, Unilever, and Marks & Spencer. Its loyal UK-wide customer base trusts it to provide high-performing, reliable charging stations, easy and efficient installations, and reliable customer service
Feature-rich platform
Sevadis – while all its chargers are OCPP compliant – prefers the Monta platform because it is feature-rich and customer-centric. Customer benefits deriving from the system include simplified charger set-up; faster issue resolution, and independence, where customers can self-manage their networks, from changing tariffs to scheduling charges
Other key features provided by the back-office system include fully automated invoicing and billing, whereby customers have full visibility of transactions, revenue, and margins; smart scheduling which enables automated, user-friendly charging schedules tailored to non-tech-savvy users, such as those, for example, in assisted living apartments; and Incident Alerts which help with the automatic generation of support tickets
Mark Smith, Operations Director at Sevadis, says: “Sevadis has always been
known for the standard of its technical and customers services, yet the enhancements to the Monta platform have taken those services to the next level
“With a better experience for all –internally, customer-facing and for the customer and end-user – the benefits of the change have been significant and stand us in great stead for continued growth and the future success of the business ”
GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE SEVADIS RANGE OF EV CHARGE POINT
A DEAD CERT HIT!
Charles Appleton, CoFounder & CEO of Tradecert, explains why the launch of a new App for electricians can offer a time and moneysaving alternative to manual certificates.
WHAT IS THE TRADE SAYING?
John Fletcher isn’t alone with his praise
Here’s just a flavour of what electricians across the UK have been saying:
“Truly unique. Saves a hell of a lot of time and paperwork ” –
Nathan George, NFK Electrical
“I’ve been using a different product for 15 years I’m not anymore ” –
Patrick Dervan, SP Electrical
Scome from boardrooms or business schools – they come from real-world conversations around the dinner table. For me and my brother Harvey, that’s exactly how Tradecert was born
A few years ago, we were chatting with Harvey’s father-in-law, Mark – a seasoned electrician with decades of experience He explained the daily grind of filling out certification paperwork: slow, repetitive, and clunky software that felt more like a burden than a tool His point was clear –electricians deserved something better.
That spark of frustration lit a fire. Fast forward to May this year, and we officially launched Tradecert Since then, the response has been nothing short of phenomenal – rapid growth, offers of investment, and, most importantly, glowing feedback from the very people we built it for: electricians
AI Uploads – Seconds, not hours
Our standout feature – and the one that’s making the biggest waves – is AI Uploads Snap a photo of a distribution board or an existing certificate, and Tradecert’s AI instantly pulls out all the circuit data, dropping it neatly into your certificate
What once took 20–30 minutes on a domestic job – or even days on a large commercial EICR – is now done in seconds
Live and kicking
Of course, AI Uploads is just the beginning With Collaborate Live, multiple users can work on the same certificate at once, tracking each other’s edits in real time The platform is multi-device, cloud-based, with offline capability and auto-save that syncs when you’re back online
We’ve also built in AI Observations –think of it as ChatGPT for electricians Jot down “cracked socket” and it’ll generate
“The future of the trade… Work smarter, not harder ” –
Simon Hodge, MJ Electrical Training
“Makes paperwork a breeze!” –
Chris Shorthouse, Short Circuit Electrical
the correct regulation reference and code, and even update inspection schedule items automatically
Added to that are AI Notes, which pull your handwritten or typed site notes directly into the certificate, and AI Checker, which reviews boards and circuits and will flag anomalies before sign-off.
Built with the trade, for the trade
With a modern UX, robust cloud architecture, and tools built specifically for the trade, we believe Tradecert is the most advanced certification platform on the market today
What makes me proudest is that this isn’t software built in isolation It’s built in collaboration with electricians, shaped by real-world input, and constantly evolving with feedback from the people who use it
Tradecert isn’t just about going digital –it’s about working smarter
EV-ERY ADVANTAGE
By g g p installations to your portfolio, you’re essentially opening your business up to a larger customer base.
And, while homeowners have championed the electric vehicle movement, the real growth is in the fleet industry According to Samsara (2023), “More than half of fleets operating 150-plus vehicles expect to have a hybrid or fully electric fleet by 2025 ” With the rise of ultra-rapid charging networks, this growth is accelerating
This expansion is supported by government grants (Workplace Charging Scheme, Infrastructure Grant, Depot Charging Scheme), progressive regulations (Part S), and increasing public charging demand, providing an ever-growing stream of customers
EVs are a reliable source of income now and in the future, with opportunities to offer annual maintenance packages alongside installations Over one million
g , and as numbers rise, charging infrastructure must expand to meet demand, requiring skilled installers
Smaller companies may hesitate due to upfront costs, but Rolec’s funding partners provide fully funded, part-funded, and subscription solutions Being aware of these options allows installers to offer clients fully managed EV charge points, removing cost and management barriers
Beyond business growth, there are environmental benefits By installing charge points, you help other businesses meet sustainability goals, a priority that has grown over the last decade.
To help installers to prosper in this area, at Rolec we offer exclusive training courses at our custom-built training academy in Boston, Lincolnshire, and regional events to become a Rolec Approved Installer Partner
We offer three tailored courses for electrical contractors, covering different aspects of the EV industry:
Course 1 – EV Charge Point Installer: Industry & Product
Packed with statistics and analytical data, this course equips you to advise homeowners and businesses, providing 4 x CPD-accredited hours You’ll gain the knowledge to tailor recommendations and be a trusted source of information
Course 2 – On the Tools: Installation & Maintenance
A practical, hands-on course involving our engineers in our custom-built training area Expand your skills in site surveying, groundworks, prelims, equipment installation, software considerations, and testing You’ll also gain expertise in reactive call-outs, fault finding, and general maintenance to ensure a reliable charging network
, you’ve heard about the benefits of electric vehicles for the planet, but how can this boom in green transport benefit you as an electrical contractor? The experts at Rolec explain more.
Course 3 – DC Training Masterclass
Rapid DC charging is one of the fastest-growing sectors, with over 70% of new installations in early 2025 being ultra-rapid This hands-on training covers product knowledge, practical installation, maintenance, and working safely and efficiently with Rolec’s new UltraCharge range, including our 40 kW and 80 kW models You’ll gain confidence in fault diagnosis, component replacement, and service delivery
Combining all three courses prepares you for the full EV charging landscape You also have the flexibility to attend individual courses or an intensive all-day company session covering all content, led by Allan Ross, Head of Training & Culture at Rolec.
For those who are interested in the training options, Allan can be contacted at: allan ross@rolecserv co uk
Shield selects Sync Energy as it goes electric
When specialist technical contractor, Shield, committed to transforming its fleet of company cars to electrical – and knowing that the van fleet was also planned – it decided to install a comprehensive EV charging facility at its new head office in Bristol.
Working with Sync Energy, part of the Luceco Group, the company opted for Sync Energy Pro Charger Twin Wall Mounted EV Chargers as the ideal commercial EV charging solution for the increasing volume of use.
As Edward Vill, Electrical Operations Manager, Shield Mechanical Electrical & Facilities Services, explained: “We already had single chargers but the ongoing move to electric, combined with increasing demand from visitors to the site meant that when we moved to new premises, a better and bigger solution was not only needed With Sync Energy it was possible and practical.”
With twin Type 2 socket outlets, a backlit intuitive colour touchscreen, and built-in 4G connectivity, MCB and MID metres as standard, the Sync Energy Pro Charger supports Monta QR code, RFID, Plug and Charge, and Payment Terminal Charging, if required.
The Pro Charger range features Twin Bollard EV Chargers, available with or without amenity lighting option, and Twin Wall-mounted Chargers Both the wall-mounted and bollard options come with PEN fault detection, touchscreen, RFID, 4G connectivity, and an MID meter as standard
This comprehensive suite of
features ensures that the chargers are not only user-friendly but also future proof, catering to a wide array of commercial applications
Getting the right balancer
The unique balancer enables link up to 16 charge points dynamically to the building supply, ensuring no overload of circuits, protecting assets with a Stainless-Steel Crash barrier. The Sync EV balancer is designed to ensure that the electricity supply is not exceeded by EV charging.
When it comes to EV chargers, there is no allowance for diversity, so a 32 A charger needs to always use 32 A When 2, 3, or 4 chargers are added this soon adds up, which is where the Sync EV balancer comes in
The balancer is a hardwired system for reliability and requires no subscription, its scalable for up to 16 charge points (16 duals gives you 32 charging bays), and it dynamically manages the available building power, distributing it evenly between the connected vehicles
Edward continued: “Over and above the technical spec, we also liked the sleek look of the system and its user-friendly nature. We currently have key fobs open to all ”
Sarah Cox, Sync Energy’s Business Development Manager, added: “Sync Energy’s service covers all the bases
We started with a site visit, assessment of needs, calculations on loading, before quoting and supplying with the help of a local distributor Sync Energy then supported both the install and
commissioning ”
She continued: “It was a real pleasure collaborating with Shield Electrical on its exciting new site. Together, we delivered sleek, user-friendly wall chargers that made it simple for them to power up their electric vehicles
“It’s great to see sustainability in action, and I’m looking forward to continuing our support for Shield as well as enabling more forward-thinking projects like this in the future ”
BROWSE THE SYNC ENERGY RANGE OF EV CHARGING SOLUTIONS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR039
Tollerton gets a Hall pass
recently installed five of its EV chargers in the grounds of the historic Tollerton Hall, home to high-end automobile retailer Kaaimans International.
The Grade II listed hall, which has previously been a hotel, WWII army base, and school, is now owned by the Kershaw family who are renovating it into their family home and a base for their business
As part of the renovations, the Kershaw’s have installed the EV chargers for tenants and their clients in The Coach House, an on-site commercial space Requiring dual-socketed chargers with illumination for the evenings, they worked with NEST Group who recommended Sync Energy’s Pro Charger Range.
The chosen charger was the Twin Floor Mounted Pro Charger with Light, ticking all the boxes for power, capacity, and lighting It features two Type 2 socket outlets, a backlit intuitive colour touchscreen and RGB LED charge status indicator, as well as built in 4G connectivity, MCB and MID meters as standard
The featured light and PAS 1899 compliant design ensures easy and accessible charging at all times of the day
Georgia Cichuta, Business Development Manager at Sync Energy, said: “It’s been wonderful working with the Kershaw’s at Tollerton Hall Being the home of Kaaimans International, this family knows their cars and now visitors to the hall know they can efficiently charge their electric vehicles with a trusted brand like Sync Energy ”
London waste site reaps
benefits
from Cerberus PRO
The ability for Siemens Cerberus PRO to perform effectively in harsh environmental conditions is being demonstrated in a project to protect one of North London’s busiest recycling facilities.
Islington Waste Recycling Centre is operated by Islington Council and is one of seven refuse and recycling sites in North London which collectively manage 820,000 tonnes of waste and recycling each year
Significant challenges
Such facilities present their own specific challenges in terms of effective fire detection, with the scale of the problem illustrated by what are referred to as 300 ‘significant fires’ attended throughout the UK by the fire and rescue services annually
Waste sites process mixed recyclable waste which is collected, sorted, stockpiled and processed from a number of materials including plastics, paper, cardboard, wood and rubber Many are highly combustible and susceptible to potential ignition from the processing machinery through which they are handled.
The Islington Waste Recycling Centre had an existing 20-year-old fire detection system which required a significant upgrade to meet the new challenges of waste management, including the proliferation of disposable vapes and the
threat of battery fires which are proving a more recent addition to the fire risk
TP Fire and Security is a long-standing provider of fire detection and alarm services to the Islington Council From its three offices in Norfolk, Essex and the Midlands, TP offers a nationwide service in the design, installation and maintenance of fire safety systems.
The company has been part of the Siemens approved partner programme for a year, having identified the opportunity to work with Siemens when Tom Warner joined the business as a fire safety engineer
Tom had previous experience of partnering with Siemens, so when the Islington project came up, he recognised the potential for employing the Cerberus PRO system
O
Kevin
Commenting on the project he said: “The Cerberus Pro system was perfect for this environment, with the detectors’ particular capability to operate in such a dusty environment The project went very well, taking some seven days to complete, all while the waste facility was open and operational ”
Extensive protection experience
Three Cerberus PRO panels are operating across the site, interfacing with Siemens ASA detectors and call-points through the existing compliant cabling 69 ASA detectors are located in the basement, 38 on the ground floor, 52 on the first and second floors (including the plant room), 74 in the tipping hall and 42 in the offices
Siemens has extensive experience of protecting similar waste processing facilities worldwide and worked closely with TP Fire and Security to develop a comprehensive solution which meets all fire safety regulations and standards
The Cerberus PRO system provides quick and reliable protection in the small window that exists to react and prevent a small fire becoming a potentially major incident in such a harsh and hazardous environment
Luceco illuminates learning in Liverpool
Luceco recently assisted Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine with completely refurbishing the ground floor space in the Mary Kingsley building, turning it into a space where students can research, revise, and learn.
Working with contractors, The James Mercer Group, luminaires from the Luceco Lighting and DW Windsor brands were used to transform the lighting both the inside and outside of the building
Inside the space, a selection of LEDs from the Luceco Lighting brand including the Platinum, Epsilon, F-Type, Contour, and Tempus ranges were used with a combination of surface, suspended and recessed fittings to suit each space
Throughout the corridors and study spaces, Luceco’s Contour linear luminaires were suspended from the ceiling, and paired with the Platinum suspended downlights to create a modern, chic lighting solution The lights were then connected to either hard-wired or Luceco Platform controls to create a customisable lighting plan for the building Platform is Luceco’s wireless lighting control system Designed as a scalable retrofit solution, it seamlessly integrates with smart building systems, enabling full lighting control These features help reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs, and create a comfortable, well-lit environment
Outside, the DW Windsor Pharola bollards were chosen to light the pathways The Pharola is a versatile, virtually maintenance-free architectural LED bollard, which provides a high-performance white light, aides navigation and promoted a feeling of safety after dark with uniform 360˚ lighting distribution
“Andy Whalley, Luceco Project Manager, said: “It’s been great to work with Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine to deliver another fantastic lighting solution We’ve had great feedback from staff and students, and hope they enjoy this new space for years to come ”
BROWSE THE LUCECO LIGHTING RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR041
All LED’s Spartan lights the way
deliver on performance, safety, and ease of installation, All LED’s Spartan stands as a robust contender
Tailored for electricians who demand both compliance and convenience, this versatile luminaire combines intelligent design with high-end technical specification, offering peace of mind for installers and end-users alike
Smart, installer-friendly design
Time is money on-site, and the Spartan downlight respects that Its two-part connector system with loop-in, loop-out quick connect push terminals is designed with installer convenience in mind Electricians can wire up the terminal independently of the fitting, then simply plug in the luminaire during final fix. The result? A faster, safer, and more organised installation process
Adding to the convenience is the inclusion of push-fit terminals, reducing the need for tools and screws, while ensuring secure and reliable electrical connections Whether upgrading a single room or rolling out a multi-plot installation, the Spartan’s connector system significantly reduces labour time and minimises room for error
Flexible colour switching –even after installation
A true standout feature of the Spartan downlight is its accessible CCT switch, which takes versatility to the next level Unlike many fittings that require removal or disassembly to adjust colour temperature, the Spartan features a cleverly positioned CCT toggle just above the bezel, allowing users to change between 3000K, 4000K, and 6500K with ease, even after installation
mply pull the downlight slightly from the ceiling flick the switch and slot it b no tools, no unique app CCT select provides ul flexibility o and after handover, enabling fast customisat without compromis ceiling finish
Ultra-slim, fully IP65 rated
The Spartan combines smart engineering with sleek design. With an ultra-slim polar white bezel as standard, the fitting delivers a minimalist aesthetic that suits a wide range of interiors
For added design flexibility, interchangeable snap-on bezels in polished chrome, satin nickel, and carbon black are available This makes the Spartan a smart option for installers and clients who demand a cohesive lighting scheme across varied room styles.
Rated IP65, the Spartan is suitable for
use in bathrooms and other moisture-prone areas, offering complete ainst dust and water as the added benefit of ion coverable, allowing ly installed under loft without compromising ity or thermal ance – critical in y’s energy-conscious mate uilt for compliance
The Spartan is designed with regulation-ready performance in mind, meeting Part B (fire), Part C (moisture), Part E (acoustic), and Part L (air leakage) requirements for full compliance across a range of building types. It is fully fire rated for 30, 60, and 90 minutes in timber joists, holds 30 and 90 minutes for I-joists and 30 minutes for metal web joists, offering dependable versatility across varied ceiling structures in modern developments
Energy efficient, high performance B
The downlight is also dimmable, ensuring even greater control over ambience and energy consumption
Whether installed in a domestic living room or a hospitality setting, the Spartan can help set the right mood, while keeping running costs low
METREL UK MI3340 AlphaEE XA Tester
The new MI3340 AlphaEE XA tester, recently released by Metrel UK, is a ‘must have’ tester for all electrical service, repair and maintenance professionals
It combines advanced diagnostic tests with the more commonplace portable appliance tests But even then, the standard 500 V and 250 V insulation tests are augmented by 50 V and 100 V tests so that sensitive electronic equipment and devices can be evaluated
With its ability to perform EVSE diagnosis testing, and testing portable RCDs and devices with floating inputs such as communications equipment, it is obviously no ordinary machine
The addition of the optional accessory A1830 Active 3-phase adapter makes it entirely 3-phase capable Its powerful Li-ion battery is quick to charge and keeps the job going with the minimum of interruptions
Meanwhile the options of touchscreen or push button control are so easy, and the interface is extra intuitive, making it quick to learn and easy to operate Results can be saved in the vast on-board memory which can be used to drive the testing protocol if desired.
Designed to be easy to hold in one hand, the MI3340 brings a number of different tests to the table such as socket testing and standby power tests including power factor and harmonic distortion
Timeguard powers up with new circuit protection range
After more than 25 years of delivering trusted electrical solutions across time control, lighting, Wi-Fi, climate, and safety products, Timeguard is expanding its product range with the launch of a comprehensive circuit protection range.
This new offering brings the same installer-focused design philosophy and energy-saving benefits that have made Timeguard a household name in the electrical industry to the competitive consumer unit market
Meeting modern demands
The new range has been specifically engineered to meet the evolving needs of today's electrical installations while addressing the latest requirements of the 18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018+A3:2024)
With electrical contractors increasingly focused on future-proofing installations and minimising callbacks, Timeguard's consumer units deliver the reliability and flexibility that professionals demand.
Comprehensive protection at every level
The range provides maximum protection against short circuits, circuit overloads, and residual earth leakage through a carefully curated selection of enclosures and devices
All consumer units come factory-fitted with a Type 2 SPD (Surge Protection Device) positioned after the main switch, protecting valuable electronic equipment from transient over-voltages that can cause premature aging, damage, or destruction of connected devices
The enclosures themselves feature a pressed cover with stylish curved visor, combining modern aesthetics with practical functionality Multiple knockout cable entry points and clip-in grommets provide configuration flexibility, making them ideal for property upgrades and refurbishments
The raised, removable DIN rail allows cables to pass underneath, while the taller enclosure design provides generous wiring space – addressing one of contractors' most common installation challenges
The main consumer unit enclosures
Main switch enclosures, designed for use with RCBOs and AFDD/RCBOs, allow up to 27 independent circuits with individual protection against both overload and
earth leakage.
This configuration prevents nuisance tripping from other circuits, providing what many consider to be the safest circuit protection solution available
Advanced device technology
The RCBO range includes both unidirectional solid neutral devices and bidirectional switched neutral options, with the latter being particularly relevant for modern renewable energy installations
Taking protection further, Timeguard's AFDD/RCBO combination devices represent the latest technology in electrical safety
These units provide all the benefits of standard RCBOs while adding detection of dangerous serial and parallel arc faults that can develop within installations
Previously undetectable arc faults resulting from damaged insulation, conductors, or loose connections can now be identified before they potentially develop into fires.
Meeting regulatory requirements
The range directly addresses several key
areas of the 18th Edition regulations AFDDs are now required for single-phase AC final circuits supplying socket-outlets not xceeding 32 A in igher Risk Residential uildings, Houses in Multiple Occupation, urpose-built student ccommodation, and are homes, with their se recommended for l other premises
Similarly, the actory-fitted SPDs ddress Regulation 443 4 1, which mandates surge protection where over-voltage consequences could result in serious injury, loss of life, or significant financial or data loss For other installations, SPDs must be provided unless the owner explicitly accepts the risk
Practical installation benefits
Beyond meeting regulatory requirements, the range focuses on practical installation benefits that electrical contractors will love
The 100 A DP main switch incorporates twin screws on each incoming terminal, ensuring main tails are securely clamped Cable strip lengths and recommended torque settings are conveniently marked on device sides, while combi-head style terminal screws and keyhole mounting slots speed up installation processes
The floating busbar design provides greater installation flexibility, while the factory-fitted SPD with pre-connected earth and neutral cables eliminates additional wiring steps. These seemingly small details combine to significantly reduce installation time and potential error points
C.K TOOLS
Dexpress VDE
Torque Driver
C K Tools has introduced a new torque driver to its range, Dexpress VDE, launched to combat the increased scrutiny on workmanship and torque settings in consumer units
Dexpress VDE exceeds the exacting standards of ISO 60900, offering several unique benefits to professional electricians.
While existing torque screwdrivers on the market have interchangeable driver tips, they are often awkward to use, either requiring the driver tips to be removed before a new torque setting can be made, or have a limited torque range, requiring two tools to finish the task
With the launch of Dexpress VDE, C K Tools has introduced a solution to the market, providing a tool that is not only more accurate, but also more convenient to use
Featuring slim interchangeable driver bits, including a specially modified PZ tip that prevents tip breakage, the user can reach into RCB screw holes with ease. The long-term accuracy of +/-0 6% error margin over 5,000 cycles is also ten times higher than many others on the market
Each Dexpress VDE driver comes with a wide range of driver bits (SL/PZ1, SL/PZ1 5, SL/PZ2, PZ1, PZ2, PH1, PH2, SL4 and SL5 5), a tough storage case and calibration certificate
WIN A CONDUIT BENDING MACHINE!
We have a Benditnow BE25 Conduit Bending Machine – worth over £300 – to be won this month.
As a proud UK manufacturer, Benditnow is upholding Britain’s engineering heritage with the BE25 conduit bending machine – a unit that is built to the highest standards.
The BE25 features precision-machined former faces for accuracy, solid construction, and true durability – ready to use straight out of the box and built to last for years A range of spares and accessories is available, often compatible with other brands
With decades of expertise, including producing the renowned Hilmor brand before its production moved overseas, Benditnow continues to design and manufacture its products on these shores, ensuring end users can buy with confidence while supporting British-made quality tools
Special PE reader promotion
If you’re not the lucky recipient of a BE25 Conduit Bending Machine on this occasion, fear not, as you can still get your hands on this top quality product at a very special price of £250 + VAT
Simply visit: www.benditnow.co.uk and add ‘PE’ to the coupon code box when you complete your order
HOW TO ENTER
Load-Up, Lock and Land with BUNKER
High-end storage brand Bunker, a trading name of Draper Tools, is branching out and set to make life for tradespeople that little bit easier, with the launch of its brand-new Load-Up Stacking System
Getting everything to site just got easier Whatever and wherever the job, you can securely transport all your tools and essentials with ease thanks to Bunker.
The Load-Up Boxes seamlessly stack together, attaching securely to each other, whichever way around they’re facing Your valuable contents are kept safe with durable auto interlocking side latches for maximum security and easy portability
An IP65 waterproof and dustproof rating also helps ensure your tools are protected, whatever the weather or site conditions Plus, you can take on any terrain thanks to Bunker’s high-impact resistant construction and heavy-duty wheels
Create a custom Load-Up stack
Bunker Load-Up has been expertly designed and is packed with features to
make life on site easier – including a removeable, telescopic pull handle and accessories pack. The 9-piece kit offers incredible value, with many others on the market offering fewer pieces
The Load Up’s handy accessories pack includes several essentials to keep your tools in order including organisers, nest bin and side rail hooks Choose from rolling tool boxes and stacking tool boxes to create a custom Load-Up stack that suits your needs
Storage never looked so good
Available in Bunker’s signature green colourway, these modular boxes combine extreme durability and practicality with a sleek look, just like the rest of the Bunker collection – which is well known for its robust roller tool cabinets and space-creating modular storage solutions
Versatile and adaptable to suit you, Bunker Load-Up is built to last, offering excellent value and a lengthy warranty
About Bunker
Bunker is the storage brand that’s stands out Known universally for its high-end modular garage storage and roller tool cabinets, Bunker is now entering the construction sector with its durable Load-Up portable stacking boxes and its van storage collection – designed to keep tools secure and organised
The range is built to protect and designed to give peace of mind with a 10-year warranty.
BROWSE THE FULL RANGE OF BUNKER STORAGE SOLUTIONS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR047
M2 ELECTRICAL
Decorative Dark Bronze Wiring Accessories
M2 has unveiled the newest finish in its premium decorative and decorative screwless wiring accessories ranges – Dark Bronze. This sophisticated new option is available cross M2’s complete offering, including standard sockets, switches, and the latest USB harger solutions, such as the brand new 65 W dual Type C socket, all supplied in fully ecycled packaging. Dark Bronze brings a warm, understated elegance that complements wide variety of interior styles Its deep, rich tone pairs perfectly with industrial aesthetics, heritage inspired interiors, and the growing trend for darker, moody, luxurious colour palettes It also works beautifully alongside natural materials such as wood, stone and leather, making it a versatile choice for both modern and traditional spaces
ROBUS LIGHTING
SEAM Under-cabinet Lighting
End-to-end connections, cut-to-length flexibility, and plug & play sensor technology – is SEAM too good to be true? Welcome to pre-assembled under-cabinet lighting from ROBUS, available in 3000K and 4000K SEAM is a guaranteed customer favourite, offering five distinct motion sensor activities: touch, hand scan, double-door, single-door, and PIR Available in three installation options – surface, angled, and recessed – each 1 2 m strip comes with a pre-fitted extrusion Need to customise the length? Just pop off the extrusion’s end caps and the diffuser to expose the LED strip, then cut at any LED for perfect precision Combine with ROBUS’ leading end-to-end connectors to easily extend your installation as required It’s as simple as snip, click, illuminate – sounds like a good day on the job to us!
Hybrid inverter ensures you won’t need to call for Backup
With the new Fronius Verto Plus, the family-owned Fronius brand is expanding its portfolio with a powerful hybrid inverter for commercial and agricultural use
Developed and manufactured in Austria, the Verto Plus impresses with maximum flexibility in system design, a full three-phase emergency power supply and the highest safety standards
Whether it’s used for commercial properties, multi-party properties or agriculture, the Verto Plus adapts to any
roof construction thanks to its innovative multi-MPPT concept and wide input voltage range, even with different module types and inclinations.
In combination with the Fronius Reserva battery storage system, it ensures a reliable power supply during grid failures, even for large consumers such as heat pumps or cooling units The integrated Backup Power Boost function allows critical consumers to be brought back online immediately if necessary
handling of data
Customer data is stored exclusively on European servers and protected by an ISO27001-certified information security system
More yield and greater protection
With features such as the Enhanced Power Harvest System, which increases usable PV power by up to 150%, and intelligent shading management, the Verto Plus offers maximum efficiency At the same time, arc detection, replaceable overvoltage protection modules and protection class IP66 ensure comprehensive safety
Made in Europe
Fronius stands for quality and its ‘Made in Europe’ heritage is not only based on research and development, but also in the
Residential solutions
While the Verto Plus was designed specifically for larger PV systems, Fronius also has a strong presence in the residential segment With solutions such as the proven Fronius GEN24 hybrid inverter, the company also offers intelligent, efficient and future-proof energy solutions for private homes
With Fronius, customers receive solar energy from a single source – efficiently, safely and sustainably
BROWSE THE FRONIUS RANGE OF HYBRID INVERTER SOLUTIONS BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR050
COLLINGWOOD LIGHTING
Specifiers’ Guide to Emergency Lighting
CLICK SCOLMORE Matt Bronze Finish
Collingwood Lighting has produced a specifiers’ and installers’ guide to emergency lighting to help ensure compliance and safe evacuation of a building The guide will help specifiers and installers advise the building owner on the best design and system for their building based on a risk analysis and their budget It explores factors that can influence the specification, such as who is likely to be in the building, their age, awareness, and familiarity with the layout, what tasks they may be doing and the type of building. It goes on to look at the different technologies and products available and what to select for different applications The final section deals with designing a compliant system to ensure that it is fit for purpose and helps people get to a place of safety
Following the success of the Matt Bronze finish in the Definity range, and in response to growing demand for stylish decorative wiring accessories, Click Scolmore has now expanded this sophisticated finish to its Deco Plus and Deco ranges The new Matt Bronze finish, available with black inserts, enhances the Deco Plus and Deco’s timeless appeal, ideal for both residential and commercial settings. This elegant addition provides electrical contractors with high-end solutions that elevate modern interiors. All switch plates are modular as standard, allowing installers to create any switch plate required. The Click MiniGrid modules are all easily and quickly exchanged or mounted onto unfurnished plates by means of a simple single screw fixing, allowing endless combinations to suit multiple installations within both domestic and commercial environments
WISKA launch is a ‘masterpiece in the making’
WISKA UK has introduced the COMBI 310, the latest addition to the iconic COMBI Junction Box range designed directly from customer feedback and engineered for performance, protection, and durability.
At the heart of its innovation is a unique configuration of three M20 threaded membrane side entries, giving electricians greater flexibility for looping connections and cable management than ever before. Combined with IP66/67 protection, robust materials, and time-saving features, the COMBI 310 sets a new benchmark for junction box design
Installer-driven innovation
The COMBI 310 was born from a conversation between WISKA and the electrical community Customers specified that they needed a box that could handle looping connections more efficiently, specifically a three-sided junction box for outdoor lighting installation so WISKA designed exactly that
With 10 x M20 threaded membrane entries, 4 x rear membrane entries, the COMBI 310 gives electricians the flexibility they need across a wide range of applications from outdoor lighting systems, HVAC systems and industrial control panels to solar and renewable energy installations.
Built to last
The COMBI 310 is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, delivering reliable performance in industrial, commercial or domestic environment
Whether it’s part of a larger installation or used as a standalone solution, the COMBI 310 offers versatility and resilience in equal measure
Part of a trusted range
The COMBI 310 carries forward the trusted reputation of the COMBI Junction Box Series a range
celebrated for quality, reliability, and installer-friendly features
Like its predecessors, it combines a rugged, IP-rated solution with quarter-turn, self-retaining lid screws for faster, frustration-free installs This
is a product that not only meets the standards set by the COMBI name it builds upon them
Earth bar capability for SWA installs
For installations using Steel Wired Armoured (SWA) cables, the COMBI 310 can be fitted with a unique COMBI 310 earth bar mounted to the three M20 side entries, or WISKA’s E-SPRING earthing springs allowing secure and compliant earthing directly within the enclosure
When paired with WISKA’s IP68-rated ShieldGLAND, this creates a robust solution that’s ideal for challenging environments and outdoor applications This combination provides both mechanical protection and electrical safety, making it the perfect choice for outdoor installation.
Gel-ready for maximum protection
The COMBI 310 is also fully compatible with the WISKA Gel Range, including the MP One 300 ml, which is the perfect quantity to fill the enclosure Using the gel increases the protection rating from IP66/67 to IP68, making the
enclosure suitable for underground or direct burial applications
This added capability ensures even greater longevity and reliability, especially in demanding or exposed environments.
Compact size Big results
Measuring just 118 × 85 × 51 mm, the COMBI 310 delivers generous internal space for connections, including an additional 10% belly space compared to similar enclosures. It’s made from halogen-free, flame-retardant polypropylene with a twin-shot TPE seal for maximum durability
Its quarter-turn, self-retaining lid screws make installation quick and frustration-free, while its corrosion resistance ensures long life in the harshest environments It’s available empty or with 3 x 3-Pole WAGO 221 Lever Connectors and in a choice of black, grey or white to suit your project or requirement.
GET MORE DETAILS ON THE WISKA COMBI 310 BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR053
CED ELECTRICAL
VAULT Consumer Unit Range
The new Axiom VAULT collection of consumer units and related products has been enhanced to include EV-specific consumer units and bi-directional RCBOs The range features both standard and surge protection consumer units, garage/shower units as well as the normal supporting items –RCBOs, MCBs, RCDs plus contactors and timers But in the midst of all these ranges there are two high profile new additions meeting specific needs of relatively new, fast growing sectors of the market First, the electric vehicle market – the Vault range includes 6 way fully loaded consumer units dedicated to the EV market and recommended to ensure electrical safety, simplify future maintenance or upgrades and comply with current wiring regulations EV chargers typically draw high, continuous loads and a dedicated consumer unit helps to isolate this load from the main circuits in the property, reducing the risk of overloading and minimising nuisance tripping of other circuits Second is the addition of new bi-directional RCBOs, particularly useful in installations with renewable energy sources, such as solar power systems and wind turbines. Such systems often involve bi-directional current flows where these RCBOs provide enhanced safety by being able to detect faults in both directions
ESP
Sounder Strobe with Clear Lens
Following the successful launch of its Espire collection of domestic fire and CO alarms earlier this year, ESP has bolstered the Espire accessories range with the addition of a new Sounder Strobe with Clear Lens This high-visibility warning device features a transparent diffuser and white LED and it will sit alongside the existing red lens option, providing installers with more choice when it comes to providing dependable fire alarm components that are compliant with industry standards Designed for reliability and performance, the IP65-rated Sounder Strobe is powered by a mains supply and offers four selectable tones Its white LED strobe provides a clear visual alert when a property’s alarm system is activated, with an optional audible sounder for enhanced notification Its IP65 ingress protection rating makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications, including industrial, commercial, and harsh environmental settings The unit is engineered for flexible installation, featuring 2 x 20 mm side-entry and 2 x 10 mm rear-entry knockouts for easy wiring With an output of up to 83 dB, the Sounder Strobe delivers both power and adaptability for comprehensive fire safety solutions. The Espire accessories range now includes RF modules; relay bases; clear lens/red IP65 strobe with selectable sounder; remote control switches; multi-tool – RF pairing and lock-in base release tool; and flame-retardant alarm masking plate
OVIA LIGHTING
Lighting Design Calculator
Ovia has launched a new, advanced Lighting Design Calculator – an easy-to-use online tool developed to support contractors, wholesalers, and specifiers in designing effective, regulation-compliant lighting schemes with ease and efficiency The calculator allows users to generate accurate lighting calculations and layout in minutes. By simply inputting room dimensions, the tool delivers a luminaire plan, including the required quantity and optimal layout Results can be downloaded or emailed, offering flexibility and easy reference for project planning and on-site installation It will help contractors quickly determine the optimal number and placement of luminaires for a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial applications Complementing this is the Energy Calculator, designed to help users assess the benefits of upgrading existing lighting systems The tool calculates annual energy savings in KWH, CO2 emissions, and costs, highlighting the environmental and financial benefits Results can be downloaded or emailed for easy tracking and sharing In addition, Ovia offers a free lighting and connection design service to provide expertise in choosing the right products and solutions to create a scheme that meets all the requirements and objectives of the project in question, and that is compliant with all the relevant regulations and standards During the process all the required information for each project is gathered by the lighting design team This may involve a site visit and will include a full set of scaled drawings in either DWG or PDF, which should include elevations/sections, plus specifications that cover all aspects of lighting, including emergency lighting and luminaire selection
The ECO lands as ATC launches new Ceramic radiator
ATC has introduced the newest addition to its product range – the AERIS ECO WiFi Ceramic Radiator.
This cutting-edge radiator blends the very best in ceramic heating technology with WiFi-enabled smart control, setting a new benchmark for comfort, efficiency, and convenience
With energy efficiency now front of mind for households, businesses, and landlords, the Aeris ECO WiFi is designed to deliver real savings without compromising performance
At its core is an advanced ceramic heating element, chosen for its ability to provide fast, consistent warmth while retaining heat for longer This means quicker comfort, fewer cold spots, and reduced energy consumption Combined with die-cast aluminium fins, the radiator ensures even heat distribution across the room for maximum efficiency.
Installation is simple and straightforward, making it ideal for a wide range of applications – from private homes and offices to rental properties
Once fitted, users can choose between four versatile operating modes: Manual, Program, Standby, and Landlord Each mode is tailored to different needs, offering precise control over how and when energy is used. For landlords, in particular, the dedicated setting ensures
tenants enjoy comfort while energy usage remains cost-controlled.
What sets the Aeris ECO WiFi apart is its smart functionality
Through the Tuya Smartlife App, users can control their heating directly from a smartphone, whether at home or on the move
This not only adds convenience but also prevents wasted energy, so no more worrying if you forgot to switch the heating off before leaving Remote access puts full control at your fingertips, helping to keep bills down and efficiency up
On the radiator itself, a large TFT LCD screen and intuitive stand-alone controls make day-to-day operation effortless The electronic adjustable thermostat allows for precise temperature management, while advanced safety features including overheat protection, a lockable keypad, and open window detection give users complete peace of mind. If a window is left open, the system automatically responds,
Equally important is the radiator’s modern, slimline design Stylish yet unobtrusive, the Aeris ECO WiFi blends seamlessly into any interior, complementing both contemporary and traditional spaces It is proof that high-performance heating does not need to look bulky or industrial.
For homeowners, the Aeris ECO WiFi offers a smarter way to heat living spaces with greater control, improved comfort, and reduced energy bills For landlords, it provides reliability, tenant satisfaction, and confidence that running costs are managed responsibly. For businesses, it ensures staff and visitors enjoy a comfortable environment, backed by innovative, sustainable technology
The Aeris ECO WiFi Ceramic Radiator is more than just another heating product – it is a future-ready solution for smarter living Combining innovation, practicality, and design, it is a radiator that meets the demands of today while preparing for tomorrow. With Aeris ECO WiFi, smarter heating really does mean real savings
GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE AERIS ECO WIFI CERAMIC RADIATOR FROM ATC AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR057
MARTINDALE ELECTRIC HPAT650 PAT Tester
LUCECO Cirrus Suspended Luminaire
Luceco has launched Cirrus, a next-generation architectural suspended luminaire designed to simplify lighting control and elevate modern interiors Whether you’re delivering a sleek retail space, a commercial hub, or an upscale residential development, Cirrus is engineered to perform and integrate effortlessly Available in 2 ft and 4 ft diameters, it delivers up to 7,600 lumens of crisp, neutral white light (4000K), ensuring consistent illumination across larger spaces
The fixture comes with an adjustable 5 m suspension kit, with power neatly concealed within the suspension wire for a refined, professional finish With DALI dimmable capability built-in as standard, Cirrus is plug-and-play ready for lighting control systems, with no additional components to worry about. This streamlined setup translates to faster installs, fewer call-backs, and smoother handovers
Need flexibility? Cirrus is fully compatible with the Luceco Platform Wireless system, giving contractors and project managers the power to plan smart lighting schemes that scale easily
Martindale Electric has launched the HPAT650 Advanced Portable Appliance Tester Compact, easy to operate, and feature-rich, the HPAT650 delivers all the essential tests needed to verify the safety of electrical appliances and to fulfil testing requirements for Class I & Class II appliances. Tests include an IT-safe 200 mA earth continuity test, selectable insulation resistance testing at 250 V and 500 V, plus a dedicated test mode for IEC power leads The 250 V insulation test option ensures compatibility with surge-protected devices, giving testers greater flexibility across a wider range of applications As with other PAT testers in the Martindale range, the HPAT650 features a fully automated testing mode for fast complete testing In addition, it has a single test execution mode, which enables users to carry out individual tests manually for troubleshooting when required The HPAT650 features user-adjustable test limits to cater for appliances with longer supply leads or non-standard requirements. Also included is a substitute leakage test feature for checking earth leakage at reduced voltage – an essential addition for sensitive electronic equipment where powered testing is impractical, or not recommended With a simple interface and logical test sequencing, the advanced HPAT650 PAT tester has been developed to reduce user error and increase efficiency, particularly for high-volume PAT environments
PROTEUS SWITCHGEAR
Spacer Mount Solutions
Proteus Switchgear has introduced two brand new spacer mount solutions designed to complement its recently launched metalclad consumer unit range These innovative products, the Spacer Mount Frame and the Spacer Mount Battens, provide electricians with versatile, high-quality options for accommodating surface mounted cables when installing Proteus consumer units
The Spacer Mount Frame is purpose-designed to match Proteus metalclad consumer units from 4 to 22 modules, offering a curved edge profile for a clean, professional finish Manufactured in a matt white finish to match the enclosures, it features riv-nut screw fixings and multiple cable entry knockouts on the top and bottom For installer convenience, each frame is laser etched with “This Way Up” for correct orientation and measures 30 mm deep, providing ample clearance for surface wiring For maximum flexibility, the one-size-fits-all Spacer Mount Battens suit any new Proteus consumer unit from 4 to 22 modules Like the frame, it has a curved edge profile, matt white finish, and riv-nut screw fixings, but at 20 mm depth. Each set is laser etched with “This Way Up” and comes with a fixing template to speed up on-site installation Available as a pair or in a bundle pack of four sets, the batten system is ideal for contractors who need adaptable and professional installations.
Products round up
Smarter quotes and less paperwork with Tradify’s new AI tools
Running a successful electrical business means you’re no stranger to admin Yet chasing invoices, rewriting job descriptions, formatting quotes, and manually entering materials from supplier invoices is time-consuming, repetitive, and rarely the best use of your time
Tradify’s new SmartTools are designed to change that
Already trusted by over 60,000 trade professionals around the world, Tradify helps electrical business owners stay on top of quoting, scheduling, invoicing, and more Now, it’s introducing AI-powered tools that take the time and stress out of everyday admin
Let SmartRead handle the paperwork
Instead of entering line items by hand, SmartRead lets you snap a photo of your supplier invoice or upload a PDF and Tradify will extract the key info automatically Prices, product names, and quantities are all captured and ready to use.
That means less time on double entry, no more lost paperwork, and faster
turnaround when it comes to building out quotes or reconciling costs
Turn line items into professional quotes
Once your material costs are uploaded, SmartWrite takes your product list and helps you turn it into a polished, customer-ready quote in minutes You can customise the layout, add your business
branding, and tweak the tone to suit your style, whether that’s casual, professional, or somewhere in between SmartWrite can also rewrite product or service descriptions for clarity and tone, while fixing grammar and improving formatting at the same time
Imagine, you can now snap a photo of your supplier invoice and SmartRead will automatically extract the materials and include them in your list of supplies. When it comes to sending out a quote, simply add these items to your draft SmartWrite can then turn that list into a clear, professional quote for your customer
As Iain, a Mobile Mechanical Engineer, explains: “Now I can use AI to re-write my descriptions, making it easier to understand for my customer, improving layout and looking more professional at the same time.”
Built for real businesses
SmartTools work inside Tradify, so there’s no need for extra Apps It’s a simple way to save time, reduce admin, and present your business professionally without adding extra overhead.
If you’re looking for a smarter way to run your quoting and invoice workflow, SmartTools is ready when you are
GET MORE INFORMATION ON TRADIFY AND ITS SMART TOOLS OFFERING AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBR061
C.K TOOLS
Snip ‘n’ Grip Cable Tie Cutter
C K Tools continues its commitment to solving industry-wide safety challenges with the launch of the Snip n’ Grip Cable Tie Cutter and Captivator – an innovative new tool designed to reduce the risk of Foreign Object Debris (FOD) in sensitive environments. Designed to combat ongoing and critical safety issues in environments such as aviation, aerospace, and military maintenance, the Snip n’ Grip allows for effective removal and disposal of cable ties an issue which is a proven contributor to various catastrophic system failures across numerous industries Through smart innovation, the Snip n’ Grip safely cuts and retains cable ties for safe disposal, a feature that sets it apart from conventional tools, significantly reducing the risk of cable tie debris becoming a hidden hazard. The Snip n’ Grip Cable Tie Cutter and Captivator is designed with precision machined heads and bright handles for high visibility in tight or dim environments. Its flush-cutting jaws ensure clean removal of cable ties without damaging surrounding wires, hoses or delicate components – even in crowded installations – and the ergonomically designed, spring-loaded handles return the jaws to the opening position after each cut to reduce user fatigue and enable quick, effortless operation
CARHARTT
Rain Defender Range
Designed for tradespeople and outdoor workers, Carhartt’s innovative Rain Defender range of sweatshirts, jackets, vests and accessories shields you from light rain, keeping you dry, comfortable and focused on the task at hand. The key to the range is a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) technology that forces rain and water to bead up and roll right off the surface Unlike heavy waterproofs, Rain Defender products are built to be lightweight and breathable, so you can keep moving without overheating The result? Reliable protection that doesn’t compromise on performance The range includes the Loose Fit Heavyweight Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt (100617), the Super Dux Relaxed Fit Insulated Traditional Coat (105002), and the women’s Montana Relaxed Fit Insulated Jacket (105457)
BG ELECTRICAL Smart Dimmer & App
BG Electrical has launched its new Smart Dimmer and Smart App, developed to offer electricians, wholesalers, and homeowners a smarter, simpler way to manage lighting Designed with both contractors and end-users in mind, the BG Smart Dimmer combines the familiarity of traditional dimming with the convenience of smart control Whether installing a full smart dimmer switch or retrofitting with BG’s smart module, the system provides an intuitive and flexible solution that’s fully App-enabled and voice-assistant ready For installers, the BG Smart Dimmer removes many of the common frustrations associated with smart lighting Thanks to its simple Bluetooth setup, there’s no need for a hub, just connect and go, reducing installation time, avoiding additional hardware, and removing the likelihood of call-backs The product range includes both 1-gang and 2-gang, master and secondary switches in the popular white moulded profile, as well as retrofit smart dimmer modules, which are universal fit, compatible with the BG decorative dimmer ranges No neutral wire is required, making it suitable for standard lighting circuits across a wide variety of residential applications. Users can control their lighting via the free BG Smart App, adjusting brightness, setting schedules, and even enabling random operation when they’re away from home Contractors can pre-configure timers, presets, and lighting scenes for their clients during installation, handing over a fully set-up system that enhances customer satisfaction and adds professional value With compatibility across Alexa, Siri, and Hey Google, the BG Smart App easily integrates into any connected home environment
CAUGHT ON VIDEOCAMERA
THORN LIGHTING CETUS3 LED DOWNLIGHT
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ELECTRICIAN'S REVIEW
In this video Jensen from GRM Electrical takes a closer look at Thorn Lighting Cetus3 LED Downlights See what he thinks of these high quality fixtures that are packed with features, plus you’ll get a closer look at how easy they are to install and how the emergency mode works in practice.
WATC H T H E V I D E O AT: W W W. R D R . L I N K / E B R 0 6 9
Q ACOUSTICS E300A SYSTEM –INSTALL & REVIEW
In this video Adam Stears from SOTA Electrical tells us more about whether the Q Acoustics E300A System was really music to ears Adam gives his honest thoughts on this Wi-Fi-enabled, in-ceiling-installed sound system as well as showing us how simple it really is to install
WATC H T H E V I D
BEHIND THE SCENES AT C-TEC
PE’s very own Richard Bowler recently sat down with C-TEC’s Marketing Director, Andy Green to discuss what installers need to know about the future of fire safety systems The pair also chat about the company’s evolution, the support and training offered to installers, and how C-TEC’s manufacturing expertise allows electricians to install with confidence
SCANGRIP LIGHTING RANGE –PRODUCT REVIEW
With a whole host of lighting solutions at his fingertips, Adam Stears of SOTA Electrical sheds some light on the SCANGRIP lighting range from Hultafors Tools Find out more about what he thinks of these innovative work light options, where they’re best used and how they help him save time on the job
WATC H T H E V I D E O AT:
LEDVANCE GEN 4 FLOODLIGHTS –ELECTRICIAN’S REVIEW
In this video Kyle Gamble puts the new Ledvance Gen 4 Floodlights through their paces See what Kyle makes of these feature-packed floodlights and how they perform in the real world as he replaces two existing floodlights at his unit
IDEAL INDUSTRIES KIT – ON-SITE WITH RESIDUAL CURRENT
We’re on-site with Mike Page from Residual Current as we find out if the Ideal Industries range of products can help him resolve a wide spectrum of electrical faults at a domestic property. Discover what Mike thinks of everything from push connectors to data kits
C AM E RA CAUGHT ON
LEE WARD: PART P CLEARLY WASN’T ENOUGH TO STOP THIS KITCHEN FITTER FROM WORKING HIS MAGIC. JUST WOW!!!!!
SOCIAL SNAPS!
BENNETT: NO EARTH ON THESE PIT LIGHTS. WHEN WE TOOK THE SWITCH APART WE FOUND THIS THE TWO EARTHS WERE CONNECTED EITHER SIDE OF THE PLASTIC BOX, THE SWITCH HAS BEEN REPLACED AND THE EARTH CONNECTED TOGETHER WHERE CABLES ENTER THE BOX
ADVERTISER
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 ...............................inside front cover
