P&H Engineering – Q3 2025

TENDER CARE

Your guide to taking part in bids for major projects

MEET THE PRESIDENT Jason Clark on his new role

GAS SAFETY KNOW-HOW

Your must-read guide to the law

BURNING ISSUE

FOLLOWING THE Grenfell Tower tragedy, there have been changes to regulatory guidance on fire safety, with fire suppression systems required in some buildings and not others. However, the Business Sprinkler Alliance argues that there needs to be a greater focus on schools, hotels and large industrial and warehouse buildings (p16).

Visit

Welcome Contents

Water security and safety remains a top priority for the P&H industry, so we look at the di erent types of piping available and how each can be used to create robust systems (p20).

Bid writing is an important skill for engineers who want to grow their business, but it can be a daunting task. We explore the common errors and how to create a strong bid (p28).

The CIPHE’s new President, Jason Clark, discusses his career to date and his work with the wider industry, as well as his views on training and apprenticeships (p14).

SARAH WELSH Editor pandhengineering

@jamespembrokemedia.co.uk

Editor Sarah Welsh Project manager Lizzie Hufton

Design and production manager Christina Richmond

Publisher James Houston

Published by James Pembroke Media, Ground Floor Riverside North, Walcot Yard, Bath BA1 5BG Tel 01225 337777

Advertising sales Millie Ursell, 0203 198 3092 millie.ursell@jamespembrokemedia.co.uk

Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) Saxon House, 27 Duke Street, Chelmsford CM1 1HT Tel 01708 472791

FEATURES

14 Meet the President

Jason Clark on the power of education

16 Burning issue

The many benefits of sprinkler systems

20 Perfect fit

Why keeping an open mind is key when specifying pipes

24 Project focus

A water-saving trial at an airport hotel

28 Winning formula

How to navigate the tender process

REGULARS

5 From the CEO

Kevin Wellman on next year’s World Plumbing Conference

Membership Founded in 1906, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) is the professional body for the UK plumbing and heating industry. Membership is made up of consultants, specifiers, designers, public health engineers, lecturers, trainers, trainees and practitioners. The CIPHE has a membership of 7,500, including over 150 manufacturers and distributors. The majority of members live in the UK, although over 1,500 are residents in Hong Kong. The CIPHE is a member of the Construction

6 Frontline

Energy infrastructure and industry news

12 Meet the member Industry advocate Louchavan Lemard

32 International

The build-up to WPC 2026 begins

34 The Fix: Heat pump refrigerants

How to choose the right refrigeration

40 The Fix: Gas safety legislation Advice for installers on gas safety laws

43 Products

The latest kit for you and your customers

44 Membership

The benefits of professional registration

46 Wellbeing

How to handle heavy loads

Industry Council and a licensed member of the Engineering Council.

Subscriptions P&H Engineering is the magazine for the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering, containing technical articles, latest industry news and environmental and educational updates. It is published four times a year and sent free to members.

Annual subscription for non-member £80

Annual subscription for overseas non-member £100

To join CIPHE, email tims@ciphe.org.uk

KEVIN WELLMAN

Chief executive officer

kevinw@ciphe.org.uk

“The more important decision was the support for the introduction of

new registers”

Kevin Wellman looks back at this year’s CIPHE AGM, and forward to next year’s World Plumbing Conference

I AM DELIGHTED to report that arrangements for the 14th World Plumbing Conference are going extremely well. The conference is being held in conjunction with InstallerSHOW from 23-25 June 2026. We have had an overwhelming response to the call for presentations and, looking at the submissions received from across the world, the overall content is amazing. The registration details are now available via the following link: ciphe.org.uk/about/wpc26 CIPHE members who book before 31 December 2025 can take advantage of a fantastic discount and register for just £150 +VAT – which includes conference and exhibition entry, lunches and daytime refreshments, drinks reception, gala dinner and special closing event – a massive £240 saving on the general registration fee of £350 +VAT! Discounted accommodation is available. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/EventExpressWPC26

Voting for change

INSTALLER SHOW

If you are interested in assisting the CIPHE as an ambassador for next year’s InstallerSHOW and the World Plumbing Conference, please contact Lizzi Lake, at elizabethl@ciphe.org.uk, who will advise of the help and support required.

During the recent AGM, members voted in favour of changes to the CIPHE’s ByeLaws and Regulations by an overwhelming majority. While some of the modifications were typographical, the more important decision was the support for the introduction of new registers: Registered Low Carbon Professionals, Registered Trainers and Registered Domestic Energy Assessors. The changes have been supported by the Engineering Council and formally accepted by the Privy Council. For further details contact Tim Sainty at tims@ciphe.org.uk. This liaison is required as a consequence of our Incorporation of Royal Charter that was awarded in 2008.

Safe working with lead

Members who work with lead now or in the future should familiarise themselves with the government’s (proposed) changes to the Control of Lead at Work (CLAW) Regulations 2002:

There are symptoms that people experience with excessive lead in their bloodstream and testing will be required. All employees (including young workers aged 16-18) – the current suspension level of 60µg/dl should be halved in October 2026, then halved again in October 2028. (There would be a similar reduction in the action levels – from 50µg/dl to 20µg/dl, then 10µg/dl.)

Women of childbearing capacity – reduce the current suspension level of 30µg/dl to 10µg/dl in October 2026, then reduce further to 5µg/dl in October 2028. (There would be a similar reduction in the action levels – from 25µg/dl to 5µg/dl, then 2µg/dl.) More information is available at tinyurl.com/CLAWchanges

While safeguarding the safety, health and wellbeing of all those working with lead, it is likely that the increased use of Personal Protection Equipment will become more important, as will the need for regular health screening. Furthermore, it is possible that project costs will rise, especially when employers have to introduce greater safeguarding for their employees.

ALL THAT’S HAPPENING IN PLUMBING AND HEATING

Solar panels for new-build homes

Government announces plans for a ‘rooftop revolution’ to harness power from the sun

NEW HOMEOWNERS should have cheaper energy bills thanks to proposed changes to the Future Homes Standard, due to be published this autumn, which will require most new-build properties to have rooftop solar panels fitted.

As part of its Plan for Change, the government has confirmed it will amend building regulations to explicitly promote solar – with flexibility in place for new homes surrounded by trees or with a lot of shade overhead.

Based on the current energy price cap, a typical existing UK home could save around £530 a year by installing rooftop solar panels.

Under the proposed changes, new homes will also be fitted with lowcarbon heating systems such as heat pumps and be more energy efficient, reducing bills and boosting the nation’s energy security.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “Solar panels can save people hundreds of pounds off their energy bills, so it is just common sense for new homes to have them fitted as standard.

“Today marks a monumental step in unleashing this rooftop revolution as part of our Plan for Change, and means new homeowners will get lower bills with clean, home-grown power.”

Increase in BUS applications

There has been an 87% increase in the number of people registering an interest in heat pumps so far this year, according to data from Hive, the eco-tech company owned by Centrica, which also owns British Gas.

The data also revealed that double the number of heat pumps have been installed through the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which offers grants of up to £7,500 for installations, compared with 2024. There were also more BUS applications in June this year than there were in May, as more people look to make the switch to low-carbon heating.

Gav Murray, home heating director at Hive, said: “June’s increase in applications demonstrates the consistent momentum behind the UK’s heat pump movement, as homeowners increasingly recognise the benefits of sustainable heating solutions.

“However, if the UK is to achieve its climate change ambitions, we must see a rapid increase in the number of heat pump installations. It’s crucial that the government brings further incentives to the table in its upcoming Warm Homes Plan to make heat pumps more accessible and affordable for homeowners.”

Building regulations will be amended to explicitly promote solar, subject to practical limits

Government criticised for slow energy upgrades

A REPORT from the Lords Committee has warned the government is in danger of missing clean power targets if it doesn’t increase the pace of building energy generation infrastructure and upgrading the grid.

The Committee began its inquiry in January to examine the barriers to delivering grid infrastructure and highlighted in the summer that planning delays, resource shortages and regulatory barriers are holding back progress.

Kelly Becker, Schneider Electric’s president, UK and Ireland, Belgium and Netherlands, believes urgent grid investment and energy efficiency measures are critical in order to accelerate progress.

“Achieving the UK’s Clean Power 2030 goals requires bold leadership and a coordinated approach to maximising renewable energy,” she said. “This begins with urgent investment in grid

infrastructure – both transmission and distribution – to ensure a robust and reliable supply of clean energy to accelerate electrification across sectors.

“Progress must be underpinned by prioritising planning reform and regulatory changes, making our targets achievable in both the short and long term.

“At the same time, we must improve energy efficiency to alleviate pressure on the grid. The technologies to enable this transition are already available – it is now a matter of deploying them at scale.

“A forward-looking industrial strategy should clearly articulate these priorities and provide a comprehensive, actionable roadmap for end-to-end support across the supply chain. Targeted measures are essential to reduce electricity costs and incentivise the adoption of clean energy technologies.”

SUSTAINABILITY

Waterwise launches individual membership

To mark its 20th anniversary, Waterwise, the UK’s leading voice on water efficiency, has launched an individual membership scheme, inviting everyone to join its mission to fight water scarcity and protect our most precious resource.

For £20 a year, individuals can become part of a growing community committed to using water wisely, reducing waste and shaping a more sustainable future for the UK’s water supplies.

“We’re so excited to be launching a scheme that’s going to help drive behaviour change and give everyone the chance to engage in our mission,” said Nicci Russell, CEO of the not-for-profit organisation.

“Whether you’re on a personal sustainability journey or just curious about water levels in the UK – spoiler alert, we’re running out! – becoming a Waterwise member is a fantastic starting point. And your small gift can have a huge impact.”

For more information, visit waterwise.org.uk/ individual-membership

ROGUE TRADER

Gas fitter sent to jail for unsafe cooker installation

A ROGUE TRADER from Norfolk who had been suspended from the Gas Safe Register has been jailed for carrying out unsafe work. Antony Clifton, from Wymondham, was sentenced to 46 weeks in custody for carrying out the unsafe gas work at a home in Drayton, Norwich, in January 2022.

A gas escape was detected on a cooker that had been fitted by the 52-year-old the previous day. Clifton had falsely claimed that he was Gas Safe-registered.

Clifton, a director of CS Appliance Repairs, of Exige Way, Wymondham pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations 3(7) and 5(3) of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) 1998 Regulations at a hearing at Great Yarmouth Magistrates’ Court in July.

After the hearing, HSE inspector Martyn Webb said: “Antony Clifton knew that he was not registered and should not carry out gas work. However, he showed a blatant

ENERGY

disregard to this fact and his illegal actions meant the people living in that house could have been killed.

“All gas work must be done by a registered Gas Safe engineer to ensure the highest standards are met to prevent injury and loss of life.

“Homeowners and tenants should check for Gas Safe registration before allowing work to commence on their appliances and refuse entry to individuals who cannot prove they are registered.” Read more about gas safety in The Fix on page 40.

TRAINING

Apprenticeship successes

St Ermin’s Hotel in Westminster was the setting for this year’s ICOM (Industrial and Commercial Heating Equipment Association) annual lunch, sponsored by Groupe Atlantic, which took place on 5 June.

The winner of the ICOM Apprentice/ Trainee of the Year Award was Hayden Openshaw, Maintenance and Operations Engineering Apprentice at Fulton Boiler Works GB.

The runners-up were Connor Clewes, Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Apprentice at Worcester Bosch, and Daniel Manfelds, Electrical Engineering and Control Systems Trainee at Cochran.

Call for nationwide district energy infrastructure

AHEAD OF THE rollout of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s (DESNZ) heat network zones, heat transfer specialist Alfa Laval is calling for the long-term implementation to go beyond district heating, with a view to creating nationwide district energy infrastructure.

The initial rollout of DESNZ’s zoning programme began with the identification of 28 pilot locations across the UK where heat networks are likely to grow or be built out in the future. Six areas – Bristol, Leeds, Plymouth, Sheffield, Stockport and two London sites – are set to benefit from £5.8 million in shared government funding in order to help establish the zoning model, with construction set to

start in 2026. A total of 21 zoning maps have now been published. It is expected that district heating will be the lowest cost energy within each zone and the wider goal is to grow total demand from 3% in 2024 to 20% by 2050.

However, the current rollout only legislates for district heating and Neil

Parry, global head of district energy at Alfa Laval, says district cooling is also needed to create a national district energy infrastructure and enable year-round utilisation of waste heat and a more balanced energy system.

“The UK is experiencing increasing temperatures due to climate change,” he said. “By 2050, we will have just as much need for district cooling as we do for district heating, which is why it would be a critical misstep if the ongoing rollout was limited to the latter.

“Beyond this, the integration of both technologies together is also fundamental to the concept of district energy, which will be critical to tapping into the nation’s waste energy potential and forging a credible path to net zero.”

From left, comedian Alun Cochrane, Hayden Openshaw, Ian Roberts, judge Ian McCluskey, Connor Clewes and Daniel Manfelds

LCL Awards showcase the best in building services training

LCL Awards, one of the UK’s leading certification bodies for the building services engineering sector, hosted its second annual awards ceremony in June, alongside InstallerSHOW.

This year’s programme reflected the evolving priorities of the industry with the introduction of two new categories: Trainee of the Year and Community Engagement. Mark Krull, director of LCL Awards, said: “We’re thrilled to be celebrating another year of outstanding achievements from our approved centres and learners. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners and thank you to our judges, partners and everyone who joined us in celebrating their success.”

2025 AWARD

WINNERS

Innovation Award

Staffordshire Training Services

Green Centre of the Year

GTEC Training

Inclusivity Award

GTEC Training

Electrical Centre of the Year

Bespoke Electrical Training

Gas Centre of the Year

Complete Construction Training

Community Engagement

KER Training

Trainee of the Year

Gas Certification Company

Mental health crisis continues

NEW DATA from On The Tools shows nearly 70% of UK tradespeople have never had therapy, even though 14 construction workers die by suicide each week.

The latest TradeBrain monthly insight report, Silence is Deadly: Therapy & Construction, lays bare the continuing mental health crisis in the trades.

Drawing from survey responses across On The Tools’ eight million-strong online community, the data shows that therapy remains out of reach for many, with only three in 10 tradespeople admitting to ever having had it.

The research suggests this isn’t because support is unavailable, but because stigma continues to stop people from seeking help.

The report builds on findings from the 2023 Behind the High Vis whitepaper, which showed that while 85% of tradespeople felt therapy would support their mental health, structural and cultural barriers were still widespread.

Only 29.5% had access to free counselling, just 22.3% had time-off agreements in place to attend sessions, and a mere 6.28% had access to paid therapy through their employer, making

support both practically and emotionally out of reach for many.

Lee Wilcox, co-founder and CEO of On The Tools, said: “When nearly 70% of an industry has never even tried therapy, the question isn’t just whether support is available, it’s whether people feel able to access it in the first place. The data in this report should serve as a wake-up call. It’s not enough for mental health support to exist, it has to be accepted and normalised within the community. That starts with breaking the stigma.

“For industry stakeholders, the message is clear: raising awareness is only the first step. Challenging outdated perceptions, encouraging open conversation, and reshaping the narrative around seeking help must follow.”

The Lighthouse Charity provides information, resources and support to the construction industry in the UK and Ireland and offers 24/7 service: constructionindustryhelpline.com Samaritans connects people in crisis to trained volunteers: samaritans.org You can also text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 if you’re in need of urgent mental health support.

Coventry University joins the city’s district energy network

Work is set to begin on connecting several Coventry University buildings to the city’s district energy network.

A total of 11 university buildings will be added to the network – a 6.6km underground system that transports heat from the city’s waste incinerator to supply energy to major public buildings – which has only a sixth of the carbon emissions of natural gas.

The work is part of Coventry University’s efforts to be net zero by 2030, having been awarded a grant of almost £13 million from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, which is funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and delivered by Salix Finance.

The grant has also seen around 800 solar panels installed across the city centre campus to help generate energy and reduce emissions, and it is hoped the full project could reduce the university’s carbon emissions by more than 1,300 tonnes per year – more than a fifth of its annual carbon emissions arising from the use of fossil fuels.

Mark Cammies, chief executive of Coventry University Enterprise, said: “Our efforts to be net zero by the end of the decade are moving along at pace and connecting our buildings to the city’s district energy network is the next step in that aspiration.”

Plea to build homes that can withstand rising temperatures

EXPERTS ARE CALLING on the government to update its upcoming future homes standard to include provisions for overheating homes after a study by the Resolution Foundation found that a fifth of homes in England overheat in current summer temperatures.

Small flats, small homes and those that are overcrowded are all at risk of getting too hot, as are those in cities that suffer from an urban heat island effect. A third of homes have attributes that put them at high risk of overheating in the future.

“The way we are building new housing is not adequate to the climate change we are already seeing, never mind the even hotter weather that’s coming,” said Simon McWhirter, chief executive of the UK Green Building Council.

Zachary Leather, an economist at the Resolution Foundation, said: “With the sweltering temperatures parts of the UK have seen recently set to become more common, we face a greater risk of overheating at home. But this risk is not spread equally – lower-income families, social renters, those with children and ethnic-minority households are more likely to live in homes at risk of overheating.”

The thinktank used data from a government study that placed sensors in people’s homes to determine which type were most at risk of overheating. The figures were then combined with the latest data on who lives in these homes to identify those at the highest risk of overheating as the UK’s temperature rises.

Damp houses pose a threat to health

ACCORDING to the State of Ageing 2025 report, in one in every four homes in England, the physical health and mental wellbeing of inhabitants is put at risk by damp, and homes with mould outnumber those with large-screen TVs.

The report, from Caring for Ageing Better, also reveals that 7.5 million people are living in 3.5 million unsafe, non-decent homes. Almost one in three (31%) of those living in a non-decent home are aged 55 or over, and older homeowners in the East Midlands were twice as likely (21%) to live in a non-decent home than those in London (10%).

Millie Brown, deputy director for homes at the Centre for Ageing Better, which works to tackle inequalities in ageing, said: “Our report highlights the enormous scale of the poor-quality housing crisis in this country, which requires urgent action.

“While the government has rightly identified the need to significantly increase

the supply of new homes to help tackle the crisis, the reality is four in five homes that will exist in 2050 have already been built. We need to ensure that the support is available to ensure that these homes remain habitable for decades to come.

“One way to do this is implementing one-stop shops for home improvement services, known as Good Home Hubs. We must act now to improve the decency of our homes, so that everyone can live in a home where they thrive, not just survive.”

ageing-better.org.uk/ homes-state-ageing-2025

CIPHE partners with inaugural Plumber Awards

A NEW AWARDS scheme designed to celebrate excellence in plumbing has o cially opened for entries.

The Plumber Awards, sponsored by Polypipe Building Products, CT1 and Powered Now, and in partnership with the CIPHE, will recognise those who deliver top-class services.

At least 11 regional awards will be up for grabs and winning the title of Best Plumber in your region could boost reputations and transform businesses. Everyone shortlisted will also be welcomed into a tight-knit community of top-tier plumbers.

All entrants will be asked to provide details of their qualifications and training and how they go above and beyond for customers, plus give examples of their work, the products they choose and reasons why.

This process allows judges to understand how each plumber works,

LEGISLATION

Fighting tool theft

TRADESPEOPLE AND MANUFACTURERS continue to step up the pressure and push for lasting change in the fight against van tool theft.

“Tool theft has a devastating impact on tradespeople every day,” said Mike Morris, marketing manager at Talon. “It’s not just lost tools, it’s lost work, lost income and huge stress. We feel it’s important to stand alongside the trade and support this campaign. Manufacturers like us have a responsibility to help push for real change.”

In February, gas engineer Shoaib Awan, known on social media as The Gas Expert, led hundreds of tradespeople in a van rally to Westminster. The goal: to force tool

what’s important to them and how they stay on top of legislation updates.

To be eligible, plumbers must be 18 or over and hold an NVQ 2 or 3 in England, Wales and NI, or an SNVQ3 in Scotland. The closing date for entry is 31 January 2026. The winner will be crowned on stage at InstallerSHOW at the NEC Birmingham in June 2026.

To enter the awards, or for more information on sponsorship, visit plumberawards.co.uk or call 0161 871 1188.

Wilo urges reviews of pressureboosting systems

Facilities managers, local authorities and building engineers are being advised to review the resilience of their water pressure-boosting systems to avoid the potential danger of major pipe bursts and internal flooding.

Pump manufacturer Wilo UK has issued the call following a pipe failure in a high-rise apartment block in Lewisham. While the cause hasn’t been fully identified, Wilo warns that many such failures could stem from a commonly overlooked issue in system design: hydraulic shock.

“In many buildings, especially those retrofitted or expanded over time, the pressure-boosting system is no longer fit for purpose,” said Steven Walker, technical sales manager at Wilo. “We’re encouraging engineers and asset owners to evaluate whether their existing setups are exposing them to avoidable risks.”

theft onto the national agenda. With banners, convoys and speeches, the protest made headlines and showed that the industry wants action.

Awan is now urging everyone to stay active, whether that’s sharing personal stories online, contacting MPs or reporting anything suspicious.

And if the worst does happen, Awan says solidarity matters most: “Support your community when theft happens,” he urged. “Whether it’s lending tools or helping raise awareness, we’re stronger together.”

For more information, follow @thegasexpert on Instagram, where you can see the work going on to combat tool theft and the progress of the campaign.

Grant UK donates screen to local school

Queen’s Crescent Primary School in Chippenham, Wiltshire has benefited from the addition of an interactive smart screen, which has been donated by Grant UK.

“The smart screen has been a fantastic addition to the mezzanine floor extension,” said headteacher James Essam. “The interactive features provide an engaging way for children to participate in lessons, and the sta have found it to be an invaluable tool for enhancing their teaching methods.”

We need to foster connections with the next generation”

A traumatic experience with a rogue trader was the catalyst for Louchavan Lemard’s career choice and his subsequent quest to help disadvantaged young adults

FOR SOME, the realisation that they want to work in the plumbing and heating industry is a gradual one, formed by di erent experiences or exploring options. Louchavan Lemard, though, can pinpoint a single, traumatic experience which marked the beginning of his life’s work.

“When I was 10, my mother called a plumber to fix a leak in our house,” he says. “Unfortunately, he turned out to be a rogue trader – the house was flooded, and my family became homeless. That traumatic experience became the spark that drew me into plumbing and heating.”

His path through education is one that may be familiar to many in the industry. School wasn’t the best fit for him, but determination saw him embark on a training pathway that helped him enter the industry. “I was misunderstood as a child and left school with no qualifications,” he says. “I saw plumbing as a way out. Despite failing my GCSEs, I enrolled on a Level 1 college course.”

Louchavan credits his early success with an idea that came from an ususual source. “At an apprenticeship event, I turned up with a portfolio that included a cover letter, CV, college reference, and photos of me doing plumbing work. I’d got the idea from watching This Is Your Life with my grandparents.”

The in-depth preparation paid o : out of 350 applicants, he was one of just six selected by FG Skerritt, a major mechanical and electrical company in Nottingham.

Although he’d found his way into the industry, it wasn’t plain sailing. “The journey wasn’t smooth,”

Louchavan

“I feel a duty to show young people that they have options”

he says. “I went through my apprenticeship during the recession and was eventually made redundant, but supportive lecturers at Nottingham College kept me on because of my high grades and voluntary work. With guidance from mentors including Tracey Richardson, Tina Langsdale and Jolene Grey, I earned my NVQ Level 2, gained gas qualifications and eventually became a qualified gas engineer. Later, I achieved my HNC in Building Services and worked as a project manager.”

Changing lives

His tenacious approach and hard work have paid o , and today Louchavan runs a successful, multiple award-winning plumbing and heating company in London, which he says is “built on transparency and trust”.

says urgent action is needed to address the skills shortage in the sector

“The CIPHE has helped me grow both personally and professionally”

“Our core focus is residential services,” he says, “supported by subscription packages and B2B partnerships with brands such as Mira Showers, LeakSafe and Culligan/Harvey water softeners. We are also preparing to bid for government contracts.”

But his work doesn’t stop with his business. He is passionate about helping young people, o ering them some of the help that he says was so important on his own journey. “Alongside my work, I mentor disadvantaged young adults – helping to tackle the UK’s skills shortage and o ering the kind of support that changed my own life.

“I’m committed to advocacy and social impact. I create opportunities through apprenticeships, work experience and mentoring. I also support charities working with disadvantaged young people, because I know how easily young lives can be derailed. Having grown up in a deprived area and faced racism and prejudice in the trade, I feel a duty to show young people that they have options – and that a career in plumbing and heating can change their lives, just as it changed mine.”

He says that becoming a member of the CIPHE has also bolstered his support network. “The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering has been invaluable. From technical support and guidance to networking, business resources, conflict resolution and product discounts – it has helped me grow both personally and professionally.

“CEO Kevin Wellman has been a great support, and I’m especially grateful to mentors like Jason Clark, the current President of CIPHE UK & Hong Kong, who has been instrumental in my development.”

Taking action for the future

Perhaps it isn’t surprising that Louchavan feels

MEMBERSHIPS

• FCIPHE

• Freemason of the City of London

• Member of The Worshipful Company of Plumbers

strongly about the need to tackle the skills gap in the UK’s plumbing and heating sector, and the wider construction industry. “The construction industry needs a coordinated response: better training, clearer career pathways, upskilling opportunities and investment in new technologies. Government and industry must collaborate on policies and incentives.”

He is in no doubt that working to inspire the younger generation needs to be part of this response. “I regularly visit schools to share my story, highlighting the career potential and earning power of plumbing. Many students are shocked to learn that plumbing can o er higher salaries than some white-collar jobs.

“The skills gap is widening, and we are losing the talent race to tech, finance and hospitality. We urgently need more ambassadors for our trade –role models who will engage, inspire and guide young people towards a sustainable career in plumbing and heating.”

He adds: “Training is demanding, but the rewards are immense – for individuals and society.”

• WaterSafe

• TrustMark

• The Rumford Club

• WIAPS

• FairTrades approved tradesman

Louchavan believes that everyone in the trade should consider how they can help the next generation.

“Life is about evolution and giving back,” he says. “We have a responsibility to create opportunities for the next generation, regardless of background. If we don’t invest in them now, we risk losing the trade altogether.”

Top: Louchavan is passionate about helping disadvantaged young people. Above: receiving his Master Plumber certificate

POWER OF EDUCATION

The new CIPHE President Jason Clark discusses his longstanding membership with the Institute, as well as his role in supporting the plumbing and heating industry

Jason Clark, who was recently sworn in as the new President of the CIPHE, has been operating within the plumbing and heating industry for over 35 years and is an active and impactful member of the industry’s wider community.

“My involvement initially began as a 15-year-old, intrigued by the intricacies of domestic-heating pipework, having watched a team of skilled plumbers install a new heating system,” recalls Jason. “And so began my extraordinary journey from an eager YTS apprentice to receiving the Master Plumber award at Merchant Taylors’ Hall.

“In 2021, I received the Freedom of the City of London and became a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers (WCoP),” adds Jason. “This was a fabulous experience and one I feel honoured to have received. I have enjoyed every step of the journey so far.”

Among other things, such as WaterAid and the Plumbing Museum at Amberley, West Sussex, the WCoP works closely with the CIPHE to support young learners and apprentices via bursaries and their

joint initiative, the Plumbing Professionals Development Scheme (PPDS).

Supportive role

After a varied career, which included working as a plumbing and heating engineer, designer and estimator, Jason moved into sales and jointly established PEW, strategically diversifying into supplying specialist electrical controls and mechanical materials to the lift and escalator industry.

“PEW is now one of the largest suppliers to the UK Lift industry and I am proud to be director and executive chairman, along with PEW Holdings,” says Jason. “In 2020, I was nominated for the Institute of Directors’ (IOD) Director of the Year award for London and South region for businesses between £5m and £50m, and reached the final.”

In addition to his commercial activities, Jason is a keen supporter of several charitable organisations including Little Havens Hospice, on behalf of which he ran the London Marathon in 2011 and which PEW continues to support through fundraising and services.

Jason Clark President of the CIPHE

LCGI, Eng Tech, FCIPHE, RP

Jason is a Liveryman with the Worshipful Company of Plumbers and a nonexecutive director of MVB, a company in the film industry and donates his time and funds in the production of promotional films for the WCoP. He is Chairman of CIPHE’s Plumbing Employers’ Trailblazer Group and also serves on the CIPHE’s Disciplinary Committee.

He was an Institute of Directors’ Director of the Year finalist 2020 and City of London Lord Mayor’s Dragon Award finalist for Social Impact 2023.

“I encourage social impact and provide leadership to communities via PEW’s Corporate and Social Responsibility Programme too,” he adds. “I enjoy delivering inspirational talks to students from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with special educational needs. Building on this, I also work in collaboration with Tier Blundell, the founder of Excluded from School (excludedfromschool.com). The project provides inspiration and helps to find solutions to enable an unrepresented group of children to access education via apprenticeships and other routes.

“This is a cause that is very important to me, because I experienced disruption during my childhood and an apprenticeship was my way of

Dame Fiona Woolf, former Lord Major of London, with Jason Clark at his robing ceremony

Jason Clark receiving the Freedom of the City of London at the Guildhall

escaping my environment and back into education.” In recognition of his work supporting young learners and apprentices, he reached the final of the City of London Lord Mayor’s Dragon Awards, in January 2023, for Social Impact and Leadership.

Upholding standards

Jason has been a member of the CIPHE for nearly four decades, first joining the Institute back in 1987. Since then, he has become a Fellow, a registered engineering technician and was Elected as the Institute’s Vice President in June 2024.

He was appointed chair of the Plumbing Employers’ Trailblazer Group (PETG) in April 2024, which focuses on supporting UK apprenticeships in the plumbing and heating industry.

The PETG was recently appointed by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, (IfATE) and was given the responsibility to help and advise on reshaping plumbing apprenticeships in the UK.

“As Vice President, I represented the CIPHE and supported the activities of the president,” explains Jason. “I had the pleasure of working with some of the most experienced people in the

plumbing and heating industry, for whom I have the utmost respect and admiration.

“Since 2016, I have also served as a member of the CIPHE disciplinary committee, again with some very experienced colleagues in the industry. We help to maintain the standard of workmanship in line with the CIPHE policies and code of conduct.”

“My focus will be training and apprenticeships, and unrepresented groups”

Jason currently serves on the communications committee and is the membership lead on the membership committee for the WCoP.

“I would like to take this opportunity to appeal to fellow professionals in the industry to contact me, the WCoP or CIPHE if they would like to become a member and share their knowledge in helping apprentices and young learners. You can find me on LinkedIn.”

As the CIPHE’s 2025/26 President, Jason shares his views on the Institute and his role in the future: “Since

becoming a member in 1987, the CIPHE’s influence in the industry has been clear, and it seems to have really gained traction over the past few years under the fine stewardship of its current CEO Kevin Wellman and his team.

“The CIPHE plays a critical role in the development of the UK plumbing and heating industry. Apprenticeships, CPD training, promoting standards, campaigning for better water quality and much more. Its current work with IfATE, to reshape the UK plumbing apprenticeship, is possibly the most important role it has played to date.

“I feel extremely grateful and honoured becoming President of the CIPHE and appreciate the trust placed in me by its members. This is a pinnacle moment for me and I will take great care to represent the CIPHE and its members in its true spirit.

“During my time in office as president, I shall represent the values of the CIPHE and support all the great work that it and its volunteers do. My focus will be training and apprenticeships, and unrepresented groups, and to further continue with the PETG to reshape UK plumbing apprenticeships. I would also like to bring more awareness of the work the CIPHE and WCoP collaborate on.”

Above: Jason Clark at PEW Left: Jason, Daisy Turner (HIP Female Skills Competition 2024 winner), and Alanna Impey (CIPHE) at the HIP Skills Competition 2025

Right: The Lord Mayor’s Show 2025. From left, Debbie Abergil (WCoP clerk), Sandra Raine (WCoP upper warden) Charles Brooks (WCoP Master), Jason Clark and Janet Rivers (WCoP Renter warden)

Jason Clark with Ruben Duggan (Silver medalist, World Plumbing Skills, September 2024, Lyon)

BURNING ISSUE

Fire suppression systems save lives and minimise damage and water loss, but not all buildings are covered by the legislation

The Grenfell Tower fire in June 2017, in which 72 people lost their lives, sent shockwaves through the construction industry. The tragedy highlighted the devastation that fires can cause and the significant resources required to quell them when fire suppression systems aren’t in place.

The 24-storey residential tower block in West London did not have a

sprinkler system installed at the time of the fire because it was built before such systems were required by law for buildings of that height. While the building had been refurbished, there was no requirement to install sprinklers during the renovation.

“Fires escalate when buildings are not protected by automatic sprinkler systems,” says Tom Roche, secretary of the Business Sprinkler Alliance (BSA),

an organisation that aims to enhance protection against fire through the increased acceptance and use of fire sprinklers in business premises.

“The outcomes of sprinklerprotected fires are notably di erent.

Automatic sprinkler systems activate early, containing or extinguishing a fire before it can spread. They are an essential component of a fire protection strategy, reducing the burden on fire crews, minimising property damage and helping businesses recover faster.”

Current legislation

Changes have been made to regulatory

guidance in England since Grenfell and sprinklers are now required in residential properties and care homes with a final floor over 11m. This aligns England with Scotland and Wales, which have similar or lower limits. Wales, for example, requires sprinklers in all new-build domestic dwellings.

Sprinklers are also required in retail spaces, such as large supermarkets and DIY stores, with a floor area greater than 2,000m2. There is also guidance for sprinklers being required in tall buildings, with a final floor height above 30m.

“Surprisingly, there is no requirement for sprinklers in buildings such as hotels, or sheltered and specialised housing – all of which look very similar to buildings that do have guidance,” points out Iain Cox, chief executive of the BSA. “Similarly, guidance for sprinklers in schools is largely ignored and few hospitals have them installed.”

Industrial buildings also fall outside current sprinkler guidance, unless they exceed 18m in height or 20,000m2 in floor area.

“Given the words of the English government to ‘protect the most vulnerable’, we expect to see movement on sprinklers in sheltered/ social housing in the coming year,” says Cox. “However, the BSA campaigns for greater focus on schools, hotels, and large industrial and warehouse buildings.

“We feel it makes economic, social and environmental sense to protect such properties. For instance, schools are a key element of our social fabric and need protecting for long-term stability and to lessen the impact from fires on the education of our children. Schools in Scotland and Wales must have sprinklers for this reason.

“Large industrial complexes should not be disposable in the face of fire, yet today they are. In a world where resources are being constrained, we need to think more broadly about the value of automatic sprinkler systems,” Cox adds.

The British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA) has been calling for uniform fire sprinkler legislation across the UK for many years, believing

How England compares with other European countries in terms of guidance for sprinkler installation

Damage reduction

∞ Studies from the National Fire Chiefs Council show that in 85% of cases fire damage is reduced by between 50-80% if sprinklers with two heads or fewer are operating.

∞ Insurance figures place the differential for claims values being seven times greater for those without sprinklers.

∞ The government impact analysis supporting the use of sprinklers for purpose-built flats placed the reduction in fatalities due to sprinklers at 90% and the reduction in casualties at 60%.

that sprinklers should be mandated in all buildings – both new and existing. It has campaigned, in particular, for sprinklers to be mandatory in schools.

Minimising impact

Fires escalate rapidly, and one of the most prominent lessons from Grenfell and similar fires is that early suppression is critical, enabling people to evacuate and the emergency services to mount an e ective response.

“Automatic fire sprinkler systems stand out as one of the most e ective tools we have to prevent loss of life and limit damage,” says Ali Perry, CEO of BAFSA. “Fires in enclosed spaces can grow from a small ignition source to a full-scale blaze in a matter of minutes. Flashover – the point at which nearly all combustible materials in a room ignite simultaneously – can occur

“The outcomes of sprinkler-protected fires are notably di erent”

in as little as three to five minutes. Once this point is reached, the room temperature may exceed 600°C, making it impossible for occupants to survive or for firefighters to enter safely.

“Even before flashover, smoke and toxic gases pose a deadly threat. The majority of fire-related deaths are not caused by burns but by smoke inhalation. Thick, toxic smoke can render people unconscious in minutes, and particularly a ects vulnerable groups such as the elderly, disabled or very young. In high-rise buildings or residential blocks, fire and smoke can quickly spread beyond the flat of origin, threatening multiple households in a very short space of time.”

Suppressing a fire at an early stage dramatically increases the likelihood of safe evacuation and prevents a small fire from becoming a large-scale disaster. Automatic sprinkler systems are designed to activate individually when they detect heat, typically at around 68°C. Water is discharged directly onto the flames, often within seconds of ignition, cooling the area and soaking flammable materials to prevent the fire spreading.

Qualifications

∞ BAFSA has introduced a range of new courses that offer a formal qualification, approved through the Awarding Body for the Built Environment (ABBE), for the design and installation of sprinkler systems.

∞ “The most important thing is, of course, ensuring the competence of those working in the industry, which in turn ensures the effectiveness of the systems fitted and the safety of those they are designed to protect,” says Cox. “There is a real focus on competence and ongoing competency in the construction industry post Grenfell, therefore BAFSA has boosted its training output through its online learning centre.”

∞ Visit bafsa.org.uk/bafsa-trainingcentre to find out more about the qualification and to further your general knowledge about sprinklers with a range of CPD-accredited courses.

Suppressing a fire at this early stage can limit the spread of smoke and maintain survivable conditions for long enough for the occupants to safely evacuate. In most cases, the fire is either extinguished or brought under control before emergency services arrive. In fact, according to fire service data, in 90-95% of incidents in which sprinklers operate, they control or completely extinguish the fire.

“Automatic sprinklers do more than save lives, they significantly reduce the strain on fire and rescue services,” adds Perry. “A fire that is contained by sprinklers requires fewer personnel and less equipment to manage, freeing up vital resources for other emergencies.

“The fire service is often under immense pressure, especially in urban areas where multiple incidents may occur simultaneously. Sprinklers allow smaller fires to be resolved quickly and safely, reducing overall risk to both firefighters and the public.

“In addition, fires controlled early cause less property damage and are

less disruptive to the community. Sprinklers use far less water than traditional firefighting methods, minimising the collateral damage caused by hoses or fire suppression foams. Insurance costs, repair bills and community displacement are all significantly reduced.”

Simple systems

Automatic sprinkler systems vary, with the pressurised water supply coming from pumps and tanks, or mains water, via a network of pipes (steel, plastic and other alloys), with sprinkler heads spaced at regular intervals throughout the premises.

“There are parts of the UK where a connection to the mains would supply enough flow and pressure to sustain sprinklers,” says Cox. “However, this would also be subject to the local water company. Pumps and tanks are matched to the hazard. In a residential setting with smaller rooms, and designs for one or two sprinkler heads operating, these systems are relatively

Sprinklers can suppress a fire at an early stage, giving any occupants time to escape the building

modest. In a larger warehouse with high rack storage, the pumps and water supply would be considerably larger. The point being that it is not one size fits all.”

The sprinkler heads have either a small glass bulb or a solder fusible link, which works like a plug that retains the water in the pipes. The bulb and link are coloured to denote the operating temperature and when the heat reaches the sprinkler head it either expands the liquid in the glass bulb or melts the solder of the fusible link, causing the bulb or link to fall away and the water to discharge. When the water is discharged, it strikes a serrated deflector plate that usually distributes it in a circular pattern. Other patterns of distribution are also available.

“Sprinklers aren’t activated by burnt toast or someone smoking beneath them,” adds Cox. “The thermal element for most settings is around 68°C, so the layer of gas around the element needs to rise to this temperature to operate. We generally only see these temperatures during a fire.”

Water efficient

Thanks to TV and movies, there is a common misconception that water is released from all the sprinklers at the same time. However, this is not the case. Each sprinkler head is triggered

British Standards

There are currently two main British Standards for the design and installation of automatic sprinkler systems in the UK.

∞ BS 9251 is the standard for domestic and residential buildings, including houses, flats and maisonettes, houses of multiple occupancies, blocks of flats, bed and breakfast accommodation,

thermally, with 85% of incidents controlled by two heads or fewer.

“Water escape claims in the UK amount to around £1 billion annually, according to the Association of British Insurers, but the vast majority of these involve non-sprinkler systems,” explains Cox. “This is typically domestic plumbing, HVAC and central heating systems. Sprinklers account for only a small fraction of claims.

“Sprinklers, like other water-based systems, can be vulnerable to poor installation and deterioration, therefore qualified installers using the right components are needed in the first place. They need ongoing maintenance, coordinated plans for weather and a response when they operate.”

Accidental activations are rare. According to the BSA and various insurance bodies, the rate of accidental

boarding houses, residential care premises, dormitories and hostels. The standard was most recently amended in 2024.

∞ BS 12845-1 is the standard for commercial and industrial settings. Under current building regulations, commercial buildings of over 20,000m2 in England are required to have a sprinkler system fitted. For legislation in Scotland and Wales, see boxout below.

discharge is less than one in 16 million sprinkler heads per year.

“Modern sprinkler systems use durable components (e.g. CPVC piping, corrosion-resistant metals) and are pressure-tested to minimise leaks,” says Perry. “Also, dry pipe or pre-action systems can be used in colder areas or data-sensitive environments. These only fill with water when a fire is detected.”

BAFSA stresses the importance of regular maintenance and inspections as outlined under current legislation (BS 9251 or BS EN 12845) to reduce the chance of system failure or leakage.

“Sprinklers are effective at controlling fires, limiting damage and, importantly, reducing casualties,” concludes Cox. “We know many people think sprinklers are only for property protection, however they also save lives.”

Legal round-up

∞ England: High-rise residential buildings (over four storeys or above 11m in height) must include automatic fire sprinkler systems throughout residences – although not necessarily in corridors or stairways. All newly-built care homes in England (irrespective of height) must include sprinkler systems.

∞ Scotland: Requirements extended to large multiple-occupancy dwellings and care homes.

∞ Wales: Sprinklers have been mandatory in all new homes since 2011.

The remains of a derelict three-storey factory in Kidderminster after it was engulfed by flames in September 2024 © HW Fire Chief

PERFECT FIT

Keeping an open mind when specifying pipes is the key to creating safe, secure and robust systems

Demand for more user-friendly, efficient, durable and sustainable pipe systems has driven innovation over the past decade. Key trends include the rise of smart plumbing systems, the increased use of advanced materials such as PEX and stainless steel, and a focus on sustainability and water conservation.

“With continued innovation in materials and installation methods, installers have access to a range of pipe materials, each with advantages,” says Jack Young, regional sales manager at Mueller Europe.

The main types of pipe materials in use today include copper, galvanized steel, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC).

“At a basic level, the choice comes down to plastic or metal, although materials within each category offer some variety on performance, cost or ease of installation,” says Antony Corbett, product applications engineer at Geberit. “It’s common for installers to stick with what they know, but our advice is always to be open to new ways of working.

“Faced with the challenge of balancing increasingly stringent efficiency targets with ever-squeezed budgets, it is inevitable that some systems will be repackaged again and again, because they work at the right cost, without impacting efficiency. Many installers still use what they know, even if that means missing out on installation efficiencies.”

Metal piping

The most common metal piping systems include copper, stainless steel and mild or carbon steel. All three

materials offer strength and rigidity, with a low co-efficient of expansion and low combustibility to ensure fire safety. They are durable and more aesthetically pleasing than plastic pipes, which make them a top choice for exposed pipe applications.

“It’s difficult to accurately compare the cost of metal pipes, not least because of the volatility in the price of raw materials,” says Corbett. “Copper is liable to price fluctuations, while carbon steel is more stable. We should also factor in manufacturing costs, particularly for stainless steel, which requires more work to make it into the right pipe.”

Sustainability is also a consideration for many businesses and homeowners,

“It’s common for specifiers and installers to stick with what they know, but our advice is to be open to new ways of working”

Did you know?

Copper theft on UK construction sites costs around £800m a year.

which is why copper is popular. Not only is it recyclable, but it is favourable due to its thermal resilience and ability to withstand fluctuating temperatures.

“Copper is suitable for supplying heating, water and gas into homes,” says a spokesperson for the Copper Sustainability Partnership. “As an excellent conductor of heat, it allows for rapid and efficient heat transfer, making it the standout choice for supplying the heat generated by low-carbon systems.

“Copper pipes can be integrated with air-source heat pumps, transporting the heat extracted from outside air to radiators, electric heaters and other outlets. As well as improving efficiency, copper pipes are also infinitely recyclable, helping to reduce carbon emissions associated with the design of air-source heat pumps.”

It’s because of these variants that installers are encouraged to consider the whole project cost as opposed to just the cost of the pipes. Innovations include press-fit technology, which offers time-

Evolution of metal fittings used for drinking water

The industry is moving away from lead-based alloys to improve public health and protect workforces. There has been significant innovation in this field in the past decade.

EU drinking water milestones:

1980: Lead 50 μg/l

2021: Lead 10μg/l

2036: Lead 5 μg/l

efficient and therefore cost-effective installation while improving safety, as there is no need for soldering or lengthy cooling down periods. All these factors bring down the overall cost of installation and therefore the project as a whole.

“Another benefit of press fit is the reliability of connections,” points out Corbett. “The simple process involves cutting the pipe to size, deburring the inside and outside, marking the socket insertion depth on the pipe and pushing the pipe into the socket of the fitting, before pressing the joint and connecting pipe together. Coloured pressing indicators are fitted around the ends of fittings, which offer easy identification of both the material and any unpressed joints during the installation process. What’s more, the fitting and pipe are pressed only once the pipe has been inserted to the required insertion depth, which ensures a safe, dependable and long-lasting connection. There is no need for lubrication and the joints will leak until pressed to show incomplete pressing during pressure testing.”

Plastic piping

According to the British Plastics Federation (BPF) Pipe Group, plastic piping contributes to sustainability and the circular economy through its energysaving potential, recyclability and energy recovery options.

When it comes to plastic, installers can choose from polyethylene (PE),

polybutylene (PB), polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), each with differing levels of hardness and chemical resistance to suit a range of applications.

“In general, plastic pipes are more lightweight than metal, with a smooth bore and are less susceptible to corrosion,” says Corbett. “Push-fit plastic pipes are easier to connect than soldered metal pipes of course, but the development of press-fit technology

for metal pipes and the need for welding on some plastic drainage piping systems should be considered in any debate over speed and ease of installation.”

When it comes to drainage, highdensity polyethylene (HDPE) is a common choice, according to Geberit, as it combines the lightweight flexibility and installation benefits of plastic pipes with the robust, durable properties required for commercial applications. Although HDPE isn’t as cheap as other

A polypropylene waste valve. HDPE is also a popular choice for drainage systems

ISCC certification for bio-based polymers

ISCC PLUS is a global certification programme for the circular economy, verifying sustainable raw material chains, among other methods, through the mass balance approach. The reduced CO2 emissions of a product are demonstrated through the environmental impact assessment/EPD.

plastics, the initial investment is balanced by reduced maintenance costs and an extended system lifecycle, in addition to the peace of mind that comes with a strong and reliable welded solution.

“HDPE pipes have a smooth bore which is maintained throughout their lifetime, helping to repel any waste that might attach to the inside, and they are reasonably hydrophobic – the interior of a HDPE pipe can often be cleaned simply by flushing the toilet or running the tap,” adds Corbett.

Although PVC o ers similar properties for a lower price, it is a relatively brittle material, particularly in cold weather, and doesn’t provide strong acoustic performance, so lagging is often required with extra time and cost implications.

Enhanced polypropylene (PP) composite is comparable in price to PVC pipes and fittings, more robust than PVC and has a strong acoustic performance due to its enhanced structure. This can deliver overall cost savings compared to lagged PVC by reducing or removing the need for lagging.

Multi-layer piping

Multi-layer pipes are increasingly popular due to the installation benefits, their flexibility and durability. This type of piping comprises an outer plastic layer made of polyethylene (PE-RT),

A range of materials can be used for central heating systems, each with their own advantages and disadvantages

which protects against corrosion and mechanical damage. Installers should look for sustainable options that use second-generation PE-RT. They contain a central aluminium layer, which makes the pipe stable yet bendable, and an inner layer, also made of PE-RT, for internal corrosion resistance.

“Polyethylene pipes with an aluminium barrier are routinely used in brownfield applications”

“The technology has been often reserved for industrial applications but it also o ers a single solution for all potable water and heating supplies on both domestic and light commercial projects,” says Corbett. “The central-welded aluminium layer o ers mechanical stability to ensure that the pipe remains in its required position yet remains flexible enough to bend. The aluminium layer also provides an oxygen barrier, making it suitable for use in central heating systems, and makes the pipe detectable by electronic devices after installation.”

As part of its long-term plan for housing, the government is consulting on proposals to strengthen planning policy for brownfield developments.

When developing brownfield sites, care needs to be taken to protect water supplies from contamination.

“Polyethylene pipes with an aluminium barrier are routinely used in brownfield applications where potable water needs protecting from possible contaminants in the ground,” explains Caroline Ayres, director of BPF Pipes Group. “They are especially useful in larger developments as their longer lengths minimise the number of joints needed.”

The BPF Pipes Group has published guidance on laying the appropriate types of pipes and fittings in such ground and emphasises the importance of specifying and installing such products correctly.

“BS 8588: 2017 is the industry standard for polyethylene piping systems with an aluminium layer,” explains Ayres. “It confirms through testing that a pipe and fitting in combination successfully act as a barrier to organic contaminants, ensuring that concentrations remain below a threshold to protect drinking water quality. Fittings for connection of PE barrier pipes shall comply with WIS 4-32-11: 2018 up to 63mm diameter or BS 8561: 2021 for large sizes. Both pipe and fitting need to be mechanically sound and together be capable of delivering a leak-tight system over the product lifetime. So, to fully comply with

Rehau offers CPD for pipes on its website: rehau.com/uk-en/ discover-the-rehau-hub/discoverknowledge/polymer-pipe-forheating-and-plumbing-cpd

BS 8588, manufacturers need to declare the combinations of pipes, fittings and fusion joints which have been proven to meet this standard.

“The true benefit of installing these barrier systems is peace of mind for water suppliers and consumers when it comes to the quality of water at the tap. Integrity of the barrier to contamination is assessed through the test for resistance to permeation, which is designed to demonstrate that components in a system can together adequately resist the ingress of hydrocarbon contaminants.”

When specifying piping, installers should ensure compliance with regulations by purchasing from a member of the BPF Pipes Group, as its products have been awarded a BSI

Check compliance

The BPF Pipes Group recommends using fittings that have been fully assessed and certified by a third party, such as the BSI Kitemark, to WIS 4-32-11 or BS 8561.

“Where certification is not available, specifiers are advised to check that all tests included in the specification have been completed,” says Ayres. It also strongly encourages those specifying these types of pipes and fittings to check that permeation testing under BS 8588 has been carried out to the actual pipe and fitting combination being offered, and to check that mechanical performance has been fully assessed to WIS 4-32-11 or BS 8561, using the fittings and barrier pipe for which they are being offered.

The BPF Pipes Group strives to promote best practice in the construction and use of all types of plastic pipes and fittings and its website contains many free-to-access technical guides and practical guidance: bpfpipesgroup.com/ technical-information/overview

Kitemark. Products offered by members also comply with Water Regulations, ensuring public health is protected.

Plastic piping systems and water fittings regulations and bylaws can be found at bpfpipesgroup.com

Polybutylene pipes are ideal for underfloor heating systems due to their flexibility and creep resistance

Good influence

A hotel at Gatwick airport is the first in the UK to adopt new green technology that combines engineering with behavioural science to tackle the global water crisis and cut CO2 emissions

The Sandman Signature hotel at London Gatwick has long demonstrated its commitment to sustainability. In 2024 it became the first hotel in Crawley to achieve Green Key status – the eco-label and standard of excellence for tourism facilities.

As part of its ongoing environmental e orts, the hotel has now installed new Showerkap technology in 20 bedrooms as part of a groundbreaking trial.

Crunching the numbers

20 rooms fi tted with groundbreaking technology

1,500 litres of water saved per room (on average)

29% reduction in carbon emissions per fl oor

37,000 litres of water saved per week (potential)

Designed to enable organisations such as hotels and universities to monitor and manage water remotely, the system nudges users to make more eco-friendly decisions and supports the operational team with real-time reports – analysing and improving water use and e ciency, and highlighting any potential safety risks and waste.

The system not only tracks and analyses usage, but also measures CO2,

detects abnormalities such as leaks and maintains water safety.

“We are continually looking for ways to reduce our carbon footprint and to give our guests the best stay possible,” says Gints Skieris, hotel general manager. “We know many guests now favour a hotel with a sustainable ethos. Empowering people to play a part in that is critical to its success.

“This technology will enable users to monitor and reduce water usage and empower people to make more eco-friendly decisions. We look forward to providing guests with the chance to be part of a unique initiative, which is kinder to the planet and which we hope the hospitality industry will collectively embrace.”

Substantial savings

The UN ranks water scarcity as one of its top five global risks. By 2030, it is predicted that we will have a 40% global shortfall in water supply if we do not change our consumption. The

hospitality industry is one of the planet’s biggest consumers of water. According to the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, a hotel can use an average of 1,500 litres per room per day – and tourists can use up to eight times more water than locals.

The average shower uses between 6 litres (electric) and 15 litres (power/ mixer) per minute. Extra demand from tourists not only exacerbates water shortages but also has a significant impact on CO2 production due to the energy needed to heat the water.

“As a hotel we believe we should operate as sustainably as possible and we would like others to join us by also introducing this technology,” says Skieris. “Already, we can see the potential reductions, which will help us to run our business in a greener way. We

“We are continually looking for ways to reduce our carbon footprint”

look forward to taking this trial to the next level, to bring about significant water savings.”

Showerkap estimates that a hotel with 100 rooms could save over two million litres of water and 13,500kg of carbon annually. Costs are also significantly reduced, saving around £6,500 on water and £15,000 on electricity.

“Every day in the UK, we send two billion litres of shower water down the drain,” says Steve Hardling, founder of Showerkap. "But we can change that using engineering innovation and the power of behavioural science to reward guests for taking shorter showers."

Smart approach

The Showerkap system uses a patented valve to gently reduce the shower temperature, suggesting there is a limited supply of hot water.

At the same time, the valve smartbox relays the captured usage data to a cloud-based platform, and a web app provides users with detailed analytics, such as total water usage, costs and CO2 emissions. The system also offers a

suite of sophisticated leak detection tools and alerts.

The data forms the basis of the system’s unique set of behavioural nudge tools. Aligned with users’ preferences – in future projects guests will be able to connect directly with the smart devices – these personalised nudges encourage people to make more sustainable water and energy decisions.

Easy installation

Each of the 20 hotel rooms was equipped with a pair of flow sensors installed within a riser to capture the total volume of water entering the bathroom. The Nexus valve that also houses the smart box was installed on the hot supply to the shower. A cold feed was introduced to the Nexus valve – just as when installing a standard blending valve – to enable the fade technology to slowly decrease the delivery temperature to the shower.

“The delivery temperatures are set by the hotel or by the guest themselves via a web or mobile app (currently in development),” explains Hardling. “Each riser requires a single power supply that

Far left: Sandman Signature hotel general manager Gints Skieris, left, and Showerkap founder and CEO Steve Harding Left: The four-star hotel has 151 rooms, 20 of which have had the Showerkap system installed on their showers (below)

PROJECT FOCUS | SAVING WATER

“Delivery temperatures are set by the hotel or by the guest themselves”

powers two low-voltage Nexus valves via the supplied buddy lead.

“For connectivity, a preconfigured LTE router with SIM is installed in the most convenient place for power and signal. Our IoT Nexus devices work on a mesh network, meaning they use one another to transfer data back to the border router. This data is then sent to our cloud for processing via the router.”

Each site undergoes a full survey prior to any work being undertaken to draw up a list of materials required and to assist with installation, such as identifying the preferred location of the router.

“The products can be installed by any qualified plumber with no additional training required,” adds Hardling. “They are equipped with standard fittings that can easily be adapted for any global pipe size. We provide an easy-to-follow installation guide, plus contact details for our technical team in case support is needed.”

The data from the sensors is sent to a centralised cloud system and mobile app, enabling the hotel to remotely monitor and manage water temperature and safety, as well as see how much water and energy is being used.

“Working closely with hotel sta , the Showerkap team will help to raise guest awareness about water scarcity and the

importance of shorter showers to help conserve water,” adds Hardling.

System benefits

The platform not only allows the hotel’s management team to view detailed statistics on consumption of water and energy waste, but also highlights any leaks or safety alerts, including Legionella. The system isolates specific rooms so in the case of Legionella, rather than having to run all the taps on a floor, only the taps in the unused room have to be run, saving additional water.

“The Showerkap team delivers personalised reports from captured data and makes recommendations to help reduce waste and improve e ciency,” adds Hardling.

“For example, the system has been able to identify guests who have not had delivery of hot water due to other guests over consuming, trends in peak use, plus we have been able to suggest ways to bring these factors under control."

The Showerkap system has a unique valve with integrated smartbox connected to flow meters, which captures water usage data, including flow, temperature and time. It gradually reduces the water temperature prompting the user to finish their shower earlier

The system has already led to an estimated reduction of more than 5,000 litres of water and a 29% reduction in carbon emissions per floor, which would be a saving of 37,000 litres a week for the full hotel. Financial benefits include reduced damage to rooms, with real-time email alerts being sent via the platform to the management team to help prevent incidents, including baths overflowing and rooms subsequently being out of action.

“At this stage, we are still evaluating the results of the current trial and assessing various factors, including operational impact, guest feedback and long-term sustainability outcomes,” explains Skieris.

“We’re encouraged by the early indicators and remain open to the possibility of a full rollout, but no final decision has been made yet. We want to ensure that any broader implementation is fully informed and delivers the best value for both our guests and the environment.”

FIND OUT MORE

For more information, visit showerkap.co.uk

WINNING FORMULA

The key to a successful bid is more than a magic number – installers need to ensure they write a proposal they can deliver on

Creating a bid, winning a tender and making it profitable is a careful balancing act. Anyone is capable of undercutting the competition but winning a tender by simply reducing profit margin is a false economy. It pays to put in the groundwork. Accurate estimates are crucial as they promote trust, facilitate project planning, guarantee cost e ectiveness and ultimately support the success and expansion of plumbing firms.

There are several ways in which plumbing and heating installers can find out about tenders, from online portals such as Contracts Finder, local authority websites and trade association newsletters, such as those shared by the CIPHE.

“Many sole traders aren’t even aware these platforms exist, or they’re overwhelmed by how formal and complex the tendering process looks,” points out Christopher Flaherty, director of Vietec Heating and a CIPHE member. “More simplified and guided access to these opportunities, ideally with some form of mentoring, would really help smaller businesses get involved.

“In my experience, not knowing how to sell your value in writing – especially if you’re used to working with your hands rather than behind a desk – is a huge hurdle. There’s also confusion about how much detail to include and how to make your business stand out.”

Bid and tender writing is not generally covered on plumbing and heating courses, but it is an important skill for any contractor looking to grow their business and win work – particularly

government contracts. Generally, contractors learn how to write bids on the job, or employ the services of bid and tender writers to do it for them. Some contractors employ a bid writer as part of their team or train an existing o ce member.

“When I trained to become a plumber, the focus was entirely on technical skills,” says Flaherty. “Tendering, quoting, writing business plans or marketing just wasn’t part of the course. This creates a big gap once you’re qualified and trying to run your own business. This is a huge missed opportunity. Many of us leave training highly skilled in our trade, but unequipped to run a business or compete for larger contracts. More business-focused training options should be o ered, even as add-ons or short courses.”

Common errors

Not providing enough evidence or proof points to back up claims in bids is a common error. Procurement personnel are smart and know that businesses can promise anything, so engineers need to include evidence and quantify as much as possible in order to score well and win.

“While it’s easy to cut and paste general information into your tender or bid, the procurement personnel will see it as marketing material and it generally will not help you score well,” says Jason Cooney, director at Tsaks Consulting.

“You need to tailor your response to the specific project, or the works for the tender or bid, and tailor all of your responses to the needs of the client.

“Only bid for contracts and frameworks you have a chance of winning. You need to have a robust

“Many of us leave training highly skilled in our trade, but unequipped to run a business or compete for larger contracts”

Winning formula

Tsaks Consulting advises P&H engineers who want to win more government bids and tenders to:

• Only bid for contracts you have a reasonable chance of winning and ensure you have the experience, insurance and expertise that align with the contract requirements.

• Tailor your response to each and every question, from safety to personnel and include relevant experience.

• Ensure compliance with all the licensing and safety requirements and include evidence.

• Write concisely and in plain English – don’t confuse the reader with complex terminology or technical jargon.

• Provide a detailed response, especially for your methodology and experience. You need to demonstrate that you have thought through the project and services, identified potential challenges and come up with strategies to overcome them.

bid/no bid process and only bid for contracts and frameworks where you have a reasonable chance of success and can comply with all the mandatory criteria.”

Social value questions

Winning public tenders often relies on the ability to demonstrate both the capability to deliver and the positive impact the business can create for the wider community. Therefore, it’s important to understand the contractor’s priorities. Carry out some background research on the commissioning body (e.g. local council, housing association, NHS trust), identify what they prioritise and tailor your response accordingly. Examples include local economic growth, community health and wellbeing, environmental sustainability and social inclusion.

“Social value is a tough area for small businesses because it’s not always clear what’s expected,” says Flaherty. “A good

“Only bid for contracts and frameworks you have a chance of winning”

way to approach it is by focusing on what you’re already doing for the community – for example, taking on apprentices, using local suppliers, supporting local charities or working on energy-e cient solutions. The key is to explain the real-world impact of your work and how it benefits people beyond the customer. That said, clearer guidance and examples would help tradespeople respond more confidently.”

When writing a bid, it’s important to be specific, refer to the points in the tender and provide evidence to o er reassurance that you will be able to provide the service you are outlining. That means committing to your social value proposition.

“Writing about some generic commitment to the local community won’t score well,” asserts Cooney.

“Neither will saying you will hire more locals. You need to quantify your objectives and state exactly how many locals you propose to hire and what environmental or social initiatives you will implement. Make the link between your social value initiatives and the proposed services. For example, if the contract involves installing new boilers in council homes, talk about how you will ensure that local residents benefit from training opportunities related to boiler maintenance or boiler safety.”

Winning more work, particularly government contracts, starts with making the tendering process more accessible, concludes Flaherty: “Smaller businesses need support in understanding how to meet the specific criteria these bids ask for –including compliance, certifications and paperwork. Training in bid writing, clear examples of successful submissions and mentorship from businesses who’ve done it before would go a long way. Also, simplifying frameworks so sole traders aren’t automatically shut out would open up more opportunities for skilled local tradespeople.”

World Plumbing Conference, 23-25 June 2026

Hall 4, NEC

Birmingham

Alongside InstallerSHOW 2026

World Plumbing Conference 2026

Next year’s World Plumbing Conference will focus on finding global solutions to worldwide plumbing issues

Next year’s World Plumbing Conference will be hosted by the World Plumbing Council, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) and Lyrical Communications.

The conference will take place alongside the UK’s industry leading event for plumbing and heating professionals, InstallerSHOW 2026.

“Hosting CIPHE and the World Plumbing Council conference at InstallerSHOW 2026 is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in the plumbing and installation sectors,” says Mike Costain, MD of Lyrical Communications. “This is a fantastic opportunity for professionals to gather, exchange ideas and contribute to the advancement of plumbing technologies on a global scale.”

This is the first time that the global conference will be held in England,

Events timetable

• Welcome drinks at the end of the first day, Tuesday 23 June

• Worshipful Company of Plumbers Lecture Wednesday 24 June

• Gala dinner on the evening of Wednesday 24 June

• Afternoon tea on Thursday 25 June

• WorldSkills Training Competition every day

marking a milestone in collaboration and innovation within the plumbing industry. The three-day conference will bring together global plumbing leaders, industry experts and visionaries who will share discoveries, challenge and discuss worldwide plumbing issues, focusing on the theme, Worldwide Problems – Global Solutions.

Speakers will include CIPHE Vice President Paul Daley; Peter McLennan, CEO of the Backflow Prevention Association of Australia (BPAA); and Julie Spinks, managing director of the Water Regulations Approval Scheme (WRAS) who discuss Safeguarding our water supply: Innovations & Regulations in backflow prevention.

Kevin Wellman, CIPHE CEO, will host a talk titled, Should there be a licence to plumb?

“I am delighted that the 14th World Plumbing Conference will be held in the UK,” says Kevin.

“In addition to showcasing current and emerging technologies at InstallerSHOW, the world’s top speakers will be presenting papers on Skills, Supply and conservation, Sustainability, and Safeguarding the public.

“I’ve been overwhelmed with the immediate worldwide interest, with a

“This is a fantastic opportunity to gather, exchange ideas, and contribute to the advancement of plumbing technologies on a global scale”

Huge discounts for CIPHE members!

number of countries already committing to bringing large delegations to the Conference in June 2026.”

The UK-based event will attract an influential and global audience, all coming together to work towards improving the future of plumbing through four key pillars: skills development, supply and conservation, sustainability, and safeguarding the public. There will be a full agenda of keynote speakers, panel discussions and presentations, as well as workshops and networking events.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information about group bookings, email elizabethl@ciphe.org.uk

To register for your ticket, visit: forms.reg.buzz/wpc-2026/ ciphe-ad

CIPHE members can take advantage of the early-bird registration and sign up for just £150 +VAT for a full three-day delegate pass, which includes a comprehensive schedule of live content, a gala dinner, lunch on all three days, networking events, and the chance to visit more than 850 exhibitors at InstallerSHOW.

That’s a massive £240 saving on the standard £350 +VAT early-bird registration fee for non-members.

Discounted group bookings are also available for international groups of 50+ and for group bookings of 10 or more people from the UK.

Tim Sainty, CIPHE membership

Event highlights

The conference will feature a variety of knowledge sessions designed to address global challenges and drive innovative solutions in plumbing:

• Skills development

Explore essential training and workforce development strategies.

• Supply and conservation Engage in discussions on sustainable practices for resource conservation.

• Sustainability

Discover the latest trends and

SPECIAL CIPHE MEMBER RATE available until 31 December 2025

director, said: “We can’t wait to bring the World Plumbing Conference to Birmingham in 2026! This will be the UK’s biggest-ever plumbing and heating industry event – welcoming a truly international audience and showcasing the very best in global expertise.

“With inspiring speakers, forwardthinking themes and countless opportunities to share knowledge, collaborate and grow together, this is an event not to be missed. And to make it even better, CIPHE members enjoy an exclusive discount. Places will go fast, so secure your spot today – I can’t wait to see you there!”

solutions in sustainable plumbing.

• Safeguarding the public

Learn about the impact of poor plumbing on public health, water associated problems such as Legionnaires’ disease and scalding, and non-compliant products.

Visitors will get an exclusive opportunity to learn, connect and shape the future of plumbing with industry visionaries and professionals from around the globe.

How to select a heat pump with the right type of refrigerant

Jason Allen of Ideal Heating Commercial looks at the importance of refrigeration choice in heat pump selection

For those of us working to futureproof heating and hot water systems, the heat pump has become central to the journey towards low-carbon buildings. Although the benefits of heat pumps are undeniable, the e ciency of heat pump systems relies on an unsung hero: the refrigerant.

It’s not as simple as selecting a heat pump anymore – it’s about choosing the right refrigerant for the right application.

This is especially critical for plumbing and heating professionals aiming to deliver sustainable, regulation-compliant solutions.

Role of the refrigerant

At its core, a heat pump transfers heat from one place to another using a refrigerant cycle. It’s the refrigerant that absorbs heat from the source (air, water or ground) and releases it into the heating system. So, the performance, environmental impact and

JASON ALLEN

Jason has been working in the industry for 20 years, for the past decade specialising in heat pumps, from sales through to business development. He has been the commercial product manager for heat pumps at Ideal Heating Commercial since 2021.

even the cost of running the system can hinge on which refrigerant is chosen.

Historically, refrigerants such as CFCs and HCFCs were widely used, but their high Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and Global Warming Potential (GWP) will lead to their future phaseout. This leaves us with two main categories:

• Natural refrigerants: such as R290 (propane) and R744 (carbon dioxide)

• Synthetic refrigerants: such as R32 (difluoromethane).

Each has advantages and drawbacks, which must be understood in context.

Understanding GWP and legislation GWP is the benchmark for assessing a refrigerant’s climate impact, comparing it to CO2 over 100 years. The lower the GWP, the lower the contribution to climate change. The 2014 F-Gas Regulations – and, more recently, the EU’s Regulation 2024/573 – are pushing for a refrigerant phasedown, promoting the use of low-GWP alternatives. Compliance with these regulations isn’t optional. Even though some commitments, such as TM44 assessments, remain underused or misunderstood, they should be considered best practice.

Synthetic option: R32

R32 is a popular choice for commercial air source heat pumps. With a GWP of 675, it’s significantly lower than its predecessors. One of the common misconceptions is that R32 can’t produce high enough temperatures for UK heating demands. That’s simply not true. Most R32 systems can reliably produce flow temperatures up to 55°C, making them ideal for space heating, provided the system is well designed. Designing for R32 requires a narrow differential temperature (DT) approach and careful control of return water temperatures. But

“Natural refrigerants are attracting more attention”

when these parameters are met, the result is a highly efficient and costeffective system.

Natural alternatives: R290 and R744

Natural refrigerants are attracting more attention, and for good reason. R290 and R744 boast ultra-low GWP values – just three for R290 and one for R744. This makes them highly attractive from a sustainability standpoint.

R290 can deliver temperatures up to 75°C, making it a strong candidate for domestic hot water production and high-demand commercial systems. However, safety considerations and risk assessments must be built into the design and installation process due to its flammability.

R744 heat pumps are especially efficient when operating in a 6570°C flow / 30°C return temperature range. They’re capable of accepting slightly higher return temperatures (up to 50°C temporarily), making them adaptable to more varied applications. However, CO2 systems require precise design due to their

high operating pressures and unique transcritical cycle.

Performance metrics: COP and SCOP

Two key indicators of heat pump performance are the Coefficient of Performance (COP) and its seasonal variant, SCOP. COP is the ratio of heat output to electrical input at a specific condition, while SCOP accounts for temperature variations over a year. Natural refrigerants such as R744 or R290 can show high SCOP values in suitable applications, particularly domestic hot water systems. However, achieving optimal SCOP means marrying refrigerant choice with building design, control strategy and realistic expectations around flow temperatures.

Designing for efficiency

No matter the refrigerant, successful heat pump design demands an integrated approach. This can include:

• understanding the heating demand profile

• designing with a lower flow temperature

FIGURE 1

Heat pump refrigerant cycle

“Understanding refrigerants isn’t just a technical necessity – it’s a professional responsibility”

• implementing variable flow control strategies

• educating clients about realistic operating conditions.

Contrary to popular belief, a heat pump doesn’t need to match the flow temperature of a gas boiler, if correctly designed. Instead, the system should be optimised around what a heat pump can efficiently do. High-temperature outputs are possible, but not always necessary.

Cost, compliance and the future

While refrigerant type can influence system cost, natural options such as R290 and R744 are becoming increasingly viable as technology improves and demand grows. Still, system cost isn’t just about the unit – it includes installation, building fabric upgrades, maintenance, training and compliance with safety standards.

As installers, engineers and consultants, we all have a role in supporting the UK’s decarbonisation goals. Understanding refrigerants isn’t just a technical necessity – it’s a professional responsibility. Whether you’re specifying a new commercial plant room or retrofitting an older building, your choice of refrigerant can increase the system’s performance, decrease the environmental impact and improve the long-term viability.

With evolving regulations and growing emphasis on whole-system efficiency, now is the time to brush up on refrigerant knowledge and explore the full potential of heat pumps in commercial settings.

FURTHER INFORMATION

For more information, visit:

COP – Coefficient of Performance

SCOP – Seasonal Coefficient of Performance

FIGURE 2

FIGURE 3

YOUR CPD

CIPHE members are expected to complete 30 hours of CPD each year. Completion of these assessments can count towards this requirement.

WHAT TO DO

Answer the questions (using an additional A4 sheet if necessary) and return by scanning and emailing or posting to the address below.

YOUR DETAILS

Please complete this form

YOUR NAME:

CIPHE MEMBERSHIP NUMBER:

EMAIL: RETURN TO: CPD Assessment, CIPHE, Saxon House, 27 Duke Street, Chelmsford CM1 1HT

info@ciphe.org.uk Or log into Mycareerpath via the CIPHE website: www.ciphe.org.uk

1 What does GWP mean?

All CPD features are available to complete and record online: login to your account at ciphe.org.uk YOUR CPD

2 Name two natural refrigerants

Heat pump refrigerants

KEEP UP TO DATE

4 What is SCOP?

3 A heat pump can generate the same temperature as a boiler. True or false?

5 What is the GWP of the R290 (propane) refrigerant?

REBOOT YOUR LEARNING WITH CIPHE ACADEMY

Members can access a diverse range of courses through our online Academy. Log in to the membership section at ciphe.org.uk then head to the Access technical resources & CPD section to get started.

Get ahead of the Net Zero transition at elementalLONDON

ElementalLONDON is a new event taking place at Excel London on 19-20 November 2025. The exhibition is the latest launch from the team behind InstallerSHOW.

At its core, the event is all about advancing the efficiency of buildings. The common thread across our community of decision-makers is responsibility for the reduction of energy use and carbon emissions in the built environment.

What’s on

Our programme of thought-provoking and informative content will include multiple theatres and over 200 expert speakers from government, industry and academia.

The elemental Arena will feature keynote speakers and lively debates on decarbonising the built environment. Our Climate Solutions Theatre will showcase heating and cooling issues and solutions in commercial and public buildings. The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) will deliver two content theatres on how we can adapt to a changing landscape and better collaborate across the supply chain.

Keep your eyes on elementallondon.show for the full programme of speakers to be revealed in the coming months.

Exhibitors

elementalLONDON will feature 200+ exhibitors across a variety of key industry sectors. Exhibitors include leading brands operating in the built environment industry, with a selection of heating, cooling, ventilation, renewable energy and building management systems and controls suppliers, and more.

A full list of exhibitors can be found on the elementalLONDON website, but make sure to follow us on LinkedIn at ‘elementalLONDON’ for the latest announcements about who’s attending.

FIND OUT MORE

Scan the QR code to register for your free ticket to elementalLONDON, or visit elementallondon.show for more information.

Gas safety legislation: know the law

Paul Hull explains what installers need to know and o ers advice on how to educate customers to keep them safe

He is the MD of The Commercia Group, which carries out commercial and residential work, including maintenance and installation of renewables, energy centres and bespoke projects.

Every September, Gas Safety Week brings together industry, homeowners, landlords and experts to raise awareness of the importance of gas safety in the UK. Families continue to rely on gas for heating and cooking, so it’s essential to understand the legal responsibilities around gas safety and how to stop the network of illegal workers.

UK gas safety laws

Gas safety is protected by robust UK laws designed to save lives and prevent disasters. Here’s what you need to know:

• Landlords must arrange an annual gas safety check for all gas appliances, flues and pipework in every rental property. Only a Gas Safe-registered engineer can perform and certify the work. The resulting Gas Safety Certificate must be given to tenants within 28 days of the inspection and a record of it must be kept for at least two years.

• Tenants are required to promptly report any gas appliance faults to their landlord. Tenants must never attempt to repair gas appliances themselves and should always allow access for the annual gas safety check.

• Private homeowners: While not legally required to obtain annual certificates, homeowners are strongly encouraged to get

Gas Safety Week 2025

Gas Safety Week is a timely reminder for consumers to ensure their household or rental property is gas safe. It isn’t just common sense – it’s the law. Installers need to remind customers of their responsibilities as landlords, tenants and homeowners, and to always use Gas Safe-registered engineers. For more information about Gas Safety Week and how to register, visit gassaferegister.co.uk

their appliances checked annually by a Gas Safe-registered engineer for peace of mind.

• Smoke and CO alarms: Landlords must install at least one smoke alarm on each storey of a rental property used as living accommodation. They must also install a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm in any room used as living accommodation that contains a fixed combustion appliance (including gas boilers, gas fires, and solid fuel appliances). Alarms must be tested on the day a new tenancy begins, and landlords must repair or replace faulty alarms as soon as they are made aware. This protects tenants from CO poisoning, a deadly risk posed by unsafe appliances.

These laws are enforced by organisations such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Gas Safe Register, and aim to minimise accidents, explosions and poisoning. We encourage every resident, private or rented, to test their CO alarm on a weekly basis. Project SHOUT, which raises awareness about the

PAUL HULL

Eng Tech MCIPHE RP RHP has been in the plumbing and heating industry since 1986.

Only a Gas Saferegistered engineer can perform and certify gas safety checks

"One in fi ve illegal gas jobs were deemed to be so dangerous that the appliance had to be immediately disconnected"

dangers of CO poisoning, runs a campaign encouraging people to test their alarms every Tuesday, with the hashtag #TestItTuesday.

Illegal gas workers

According to Gas Safe Register, every year illegal gas fitters put more than a million households at risk of CO poisoning, gas leaks, fires and explosions.

The study by the nation’s only o cial gas registration scheme, found that in just one year illegal gas fitters installed more than 186,000 gas cookers, 147,000 boilers, 75,000 gas fires, 32,000 gas meters and 645,000 gas pipes.

Gas Safe Register has investigated almost 5,000 illegal gas jobs in recent years and found that three in five were in an unsafe condition. A worrying one in five were deemed so dangerous that the appliance had to be disconnected.

In all cases, none of the householders asked to check the installer’s credentials, despite it being a legal requirement for an engineer to be on the Gas Safe Register. Worryingly, Gas Safe Register found that 16% of people would trust an engineer who said they were registered without their checking ID.

To help stem the rise in illegal gas workers, we encourage installers to show their gas ID card before starting work, even if they haven’t been asked. If every gas-registered engineer started doing this tomorrow, it would be seen by more than two million people a year and would quickly become the norm. Find out more by searching the hashtag #RegardTheCard.

Finding a gas leak

Gas leaks are dangerous, but knowing how to spot one quickly can prevent disaster. On receiving a call about a potential leak, ask the responsible person to turn o the gas, open the windows, not operate any electrical appliances and vacate the building. If there are any problems isolating the gas (ECV), advise the caller to immediately call the gas emergency helpline on 0800 111999.

When you arrive on site, keep calm and use your training. If the resident is still at the property, ask them where the smell of gas was coming from.

Consumer advice

Installers need to tell their customers how important it is to employ registered engineers:

• Reporting suspected illegal work: customers who suspect illegal gas work can report it via the Gas Safe Register. Investigators may inspect the property and collect witness statements to pursue legal action against o enders. Protecting the public is the core focus, and whistleblowers play a vital role in enforcement.

• How to check credentials: customers should always ask to see a Gas Safe engineer’s ID card before letting them start work. They can check an engineer or business’s registration online via the Gas Safe Register database.

• Book annual servicing: an annual gas safety check with a registered engineer will help spot leaks, maintain safe function and optimise the e ciency of appliances.

Gas leaks can be di cult to find, so start with all the obvious means of escape, such as a gas hob controller being left open. You could use an electronic gas detector if you have one to point you in the right direction, but the gas might have dispersed from the area if the supply has been turned o . Perform a let by and tightness test with all appliances connected and record your findings. Remember, a permissible drop will not be allowed as the smell of gas has been detected. Investigate the gas carcass throughout the property. Look for any signs of corrosion and damage. Perform safety checks on all the appliances, for example gas valves in permanent pilot on boilers. When you are sure that you have found the problem and you are happy you have repaired the cause of the escape, reinstate the gas supply.

Gas appliances in rental properties must be checked every year

Would you like to see your product featured here? Contact pandhengineering@jamespembrokemedia.co.uk

WWHRcompatible shower

TRITON SHOWERS has unveiled ENlight® with HeatRepeat®, the manufacturer’s first electric shower designed to connect to wastewater heat recovery (WWHR) systems. Capable of reducing annual energy consumption by up to 51%, water usage by 44% and carbon emissions by 37%, the unit represents a major advancement in sustainable showering, helping future homes to meet critical performance metrics and ensure compliance with Part L of Building Regulations. tritonshowers.co.uk

Advanced aerosols

JEFFERSON TOOLS’ new aerosol range brings smart, reliable solutions to everyday maintenance challenges. Designed for professional use, this comprehensive 500ml collection covers lubrication, cleaning, protection and performance. Each aerosol has been formulated with a clear use-case in mind, o ering sector-specifi c benefits that can be applied broadly across trades. je ersontools.com

Water-saving mixer shower

AKW HAS extended its range of electric mixer showers to include flow limited versions of its Cool Touch, Thermostatic and Vettora showers.

These WRAS-approved additions to the range give specifiers, installers and end users the ability to achieve impressive water savings, as well as to continue to promote safe, reliable showering.

High-performance heat pump

CLIVET’S EDGE PRO are innovative airto-water packaged heat pumps from 4-16kW, ideal for new builds and renovations. They use the natural refrigerant R290 and are quiet and easy to use. The heat pumps achieve class A+++ for heating with both low-temp (35°C) and medium-temp (55°C) water, while also performing in high-temp water production. clivet.com

These lower flow mixer showers use between 40% to 69% less water –depending on the unit chosen – than those without a flow limiter. The Vettora, Cool Touch and Thermostatic models have a maximum flow rate of 6lpm, 6lpm and 8lpm respectively.

akw-ltd.co.uk

PM controller for HIUs

WILSON ENERGY has added a new hydraulic proportional measurement (PM) valve to its range. Three variations of the new valve are available, with a single valve able to handle both heating and sanitary functions. Manufactured using 100% lead-free brass, it incorporates a rotatable heating sleeve for setting di erent flow rates, as well as an integral 3-fold water-free O-ring seal, which ensures separation of the sanitary and heating functions. The valve fits most types of unit and will be deployed in WilSon’s new own-range of HIUs. wilsonenergy.co.uk

ELECTRIC

MEMBERSHIP

YOUR KEY MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS AND HOW YOU CAN GET MORE INVOLVED WITH THE CIPHE

TIM SAINTY

CIPHE membership director

Tim looks after the growing CIPHE membership, enhancing services for members and improving communications tims@ciphe.org.uk +44 (0)1708 463103

Members now have more ways to ensure their business is visible online

MEMBERSHIP

Unlock professional registration

Elevate your career with CIPHE and the Engineering Council

In today’s competitive and highly regulated plumbing and heating industry, professional registration is more than a title – it is proof of expertise, integrity and commitment.

TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR MEMBERSHIP?

As we increase our services, you might think now is the time to upgrade your membership. If you have gained qualifications and/ or experience since you last spoke with us, call 01708 463 103 to find out what category of membership could be right for you.

As a licensed Professional Engineering Institute (PEI) with the Engineering Council UK, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE) enables its members to gain professional accreditation at three levels: Engineering Technician (EngTech), Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Each level marks a step forward in your career,

o ering recognition, influence and opportunity.

Engineering Technician (EngTech)

The most common entry point for CIPHE members, EngTech status highlights practical, hands-on expertise and professional responsibility. EngTech registrants:

• apply proven techniques and procedures to realworld challenges

• contribute to the design, development, operation, and maintenance of systems

• take on supervisory or technical responsibilities

• communicate clearly on

technical matters

• uphold professional engineering values.

With CIPHE’s support, achieving EngTech is a straightforward and coste ective process. Members may follow:

Route A (Qualified): for those holding an accredited Level 3 NVQ or higher.

Route B (Individual): for those with Level 2 NVQ and relevant experience.

Incorporated Engineer (IEng)

IEng status demonstrates your ability to manage engineering technologies in practice. Applicants must

show that they:

• apply evolving technologies effectively

• engage in design, manufacture, or construction

• use analysis to solve established problems

• manage projects, budgets, and resources

• lead and develop technical staff

• communicate complex concepts effectively

• uphold professional and ethical standards.

Routes include:

Academic Route: Accredited bachelor’s degree, or HNC/ HND/foundation degree with further learning to bachelor’s level.

Technical Route: Demonstration of workplace competence and applied technical skills.

All applications are assessed by qualified CIPHE reviewers who hold IEng or above.

“Each level marks a step forward in your career, offering recognition, influence and opportunity”

Chartered Engineer (CEng)

CEng is the highest level of registration, recognising innovative leadership and technical mastery. Chartered Engineers:

• develop new solutions to complex engineering challenges

• take responsibility for sophisticated systems

• lead major projects and manage significant resources

• balance technical, social, and economic considerations

• mentor and develop future professionals

• communicate with authority and uphold engineering values.

Applicants may follow:

Academic Route: Typically a Master’s degree or equivalent.

Technical Route: Demonstrated equivalent knowledge and skills through advanced professional experience.

All applications are assessed by qualified CIPHE reviewers who hold CEng or above.

Why professional registration matters

Registration with the Engineering Council UK delivers lasting benefits:

• official recognition of your competence and dedication

• increased influence in the

“Registration with the Engineering Council delivers lasting benefits”

workplace and industry

• enhanced earning potential and long-term career security

• commitment to lifelong learning and ethical practice

• international respect and trust from employers and clients.

The Engineering Council maintains a national register of nearly 250,000 professionals, showing the strength and credibility of these titles.

As a licensed body, CIPHE is authorised to register members at EngTech, IEng and CEng levels. Support includes guidance, mentoring, and tailored advice.

Registration follows the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC), which defines the knowledge, skills and behaviours required. Whether you hold formal qualifications or rely on practical experience, CIPHE provides the route to professional recognition. Visit ciphe.org. uk/my-home/register-yourinterest-for-engineeringcouncil-form to express your interest Advice is available from mentors, assessors and interviewers based in the UK and Hong Kong.

Contact the Membership Team: call 01708 463116 or email membership@ciphe.org.uk

Register online: log in to your Membership Dashboard via ciphe.org.uk/login to express your interest. Professional registration sets you apart – proving what you know, what you can do, and the values you uphold. From the practical competence of EngTech, through the leadership of IEng, to the innovation of CEng, each level opens new opportunities. Claim your professional title and gain the recognition, influence, and respect you deserve.

Heavy load

Regularly lifting, carrying or handling tools

and

materials can cause serious injuries, so it’s important that installers and engineers control the risks

Although lifting and carrying heavy items is part and parcel of a career in the plumbing and heating industry, it’s important that engineers don’t accept injuries as an inevitable part of the job. By following basic controls, engineers can minimise the risks that manual handling poses.

Risks

Supporting loads, often in awkward positions, undertaking highly repetitive tasks, moving heavy materials or carrying loads over uneven ground or within buildings can put excessive strain on the body. This can damage muscles and tendons, resulting in strains and sprains, but can lead to longer-term musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

A MSD refers to any injury, damage or disorder of the joints or other tissues in the upper and lower limbs or the back. Workers in the construction and building trades have the highest estimated prevalence of back injuries and upper limb disorders, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), with handling the most commonly reported cause of injuries that last more than seven days. Symptoms include pain, aching, discomfort, numbness, tingling and swelling, which can impact the ability to work.

Regulations

According to the HSE, in 2023/24, 543,000 workers suffered from work-related MSDs and 17% of non-fatal workplace injuries were due to handling, lifting or carrying.

Although Manual Handling Operations Regulations (1992 – amended 2002) guidance is mainly aimed at employers, managers and safety representatives, it is also a useful tool for self-employed

members of the plumbing and heating industry. It explains how to avoid, assess and reduce the risk of injury from manual handling by using the Assess, Control and Review model.

“In 2023/4, 17% of nonfatal workplace injuries were due to handling”

Identify and assess

Whether working on a construction site or in a residential building, there will be materials that need moving from one place to another, so it’s important to consider the following:

• What do you or your employee have to lift and carry? Does it require lowering, pushing or pulling loads? Are there any known existing problems, such as a back injury?

• E stimate or assess likely risks from the tasks, paying attention to tasks that involve holding loads away from the body, twisting, stooping, working overhead or reaching upwards, large vertical movements, long carrying distances, strenuous pushing or pulling or repetitive handling.

• Consider the load: is it heavy or bulky, difficult to grasp, unstable or likely to move unpredictably, harmful (e.g. sharp or hot), or too large to see over?

• Certain situations can increase the strain on the body or the risk of falling with the load. For example, restriction on posture; bumpy, obstructed or slippery floors; variations in floor levels and stairs; hot/cold/humid conditions; poor

lighting conditions or restricted movement from clothes / personal protective equipment (PPE).

Control

Where the risks of harm are low, simple and inexpensive controls will suffice, such as ensuring a clear floor when moving large objects. However, priority should be given to the task that poses the greatest risks. Where possible, eliminate or reduce lifting and carrying risks; for example, ensure two people are on hand for bulky items such as water tanks or heat pumps.

Manual lifting and carrying aids, such as pallet trucks, sack barrows, trolleys, lifting devices and grips to help better grasp loads reduce the risk of injury by applying your body forces more efficiently.

It’s important to allow adequate room for the work. Reduce the need to bend, twist, stoop or stretch and, where possible, store heavier loads at waist height.

Correct handling techniques are a valuable addition to the controls above and should be tailored to the tasks that engineers are likely to carry out.

Review

It’s important to ensure that controls are effective and properly used and that any equipment is properly maintained.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

• HSE Manual Handling at Work leaflet: hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg143.htm

• Manual Handling Operations Regulations guidance: hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l23.pdf