Competent Person the
Number 2 2009
Renewable technologies Don’t miss out on your share of the green pound Get Britain building Back the campaign ELECTRICAL
New deal for members VENTILATION
PLUMBING
Join the millionaires Energy cash to help you HEATING
ENERGY
Cutthecost ofpromoting yourbusiness NAPIT has joined forces with Yell, the home of Yellow Pages, and Thomson Directories to cut the cost of promoting your business. As a member of NAPIT, you can benefit from an exceptional advertising programme with Yellow Pages and Thomson Local. Both are offering the opportunity to appear within a specialist display advertisement, as illustrated right, endorsed by NAPIT at significantly reduced rates. Research shows that 86 per cent of Yellow Pages’ directory users say confidence in a business is increased if it advertises within a trade association display advertisement.* While 69 per cent of Thomson Directory users say they are more likely to call a company that includes a trade association or brand name.** With Yellow Pages referred to a massive 3.3 million times a day on average – and Thomson Directories used 15 million times a week, can you afford to ignore these markets? For more information on the benefits of corporate advertising with Yell call free on 0800 371 755 or visit www.yellgroup.com For more information on Thomson Directories contact Sacha Levey on 01252 390 447 or email sacha.levey@thomsonlocal.com
* Source: Abacus Research 2002 and Saville Rossiter – Base 2003, ** NRS RSGB, RSGB Omnibus Local Directories Awareness Study
Inside News
Special features 5 Microgeneration scheme launch NAPIT launches its new Microgeneration Competent Person Scheme. We have the full story.
6 Get Britain building Why NAPIT is supporting a national campaign to revive the building industry. 7 Free seminars Latest on the free seminars on the wiring regulations hosted by NAPIT.
Members 19 NAPIT Trade Association Dennis Denholm with a round-up of news across the country and how you can get involved with your trade association. 23 Day in the life NAPIT member John McLester recalls a typical day of work for an electrical contractor. 24 Lowdown on underfloor heating Meet the Warmfloors team, NAPIT members on a mission to spread the word on underfloor heating.
38 Spot the Difference Your chance to win a superb portable tablet style DVD player and locking devices for distribution boards and consumer units.
The Competent Person is the official publication of the National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers Volume 6 Number 2
NAPIT NAPIT Administration Centre 4th Floor, Mill 3 Pleasley Vale Business Park Mansfield Nottinghamshire NG19 8RL Tel: 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
10 The Complete Solution How your trade association is meeting the demands of members, government and consumers. 12 NAPIT Insurance Services The new way to handle all your insurance needs. 15 Train for success NAPIT’s Paul Markham explains why members need to keep on top of training. 20 Join the Millionaires Club How a new initiative from the Carbon Trust can encourage work in the building services industry and help contractors.
8 Industry focus A round-up of the stories making the news from other publications.
32 Bodger Watch The latest selection of pictures of electrical nightmares sent in by members.
9 Getting tough on debt Clive Lewis of the Institute of Chartered Accountants with advice on how to deal with late payments.
35 Van review Roger Ryan with all the latest news on four wheels and a new addition from Ford.
Technical All technical articles are derived from NAPIT Trade Association meetings, the Technical Helpline and Ask Eddie questions. 16 Discrimination Bill Allan provides a guide to the regulations in this area. 26 Ring and radial circuits Bill Allan returns to the 17th Edition with a reminder of the rules on both types of circuit. 33 Ask Eddie The technical team looks at switches and sockets and dangerous situation reports.
Editor: Roger Ryan 5 Media, Norwich Tel: 01603 452448 Email: magazine.editor@napit.org.uk Specialist writers: Don Holmes MIET Bill Allan C. Eng. MIET
Marketing, PR & Advertising: Jenny Gaunt Tel: 0870 444 1392 Email: jenny.gaunt@napit.org.uk Design: Tattersall, Hammarling & Silk, London Printed: Printability 2000, Chesterfield
The publishers or their agents cannot accept responsibility for the quality of goods or services advertised in this magazine. Advertisements are included in good faith. The contents and opinions expressed in the Competent Person are not necessarily accepted or endorsed by NAPIT.
FRONT COVER: we feature wind power at a time when the Government is looking to renewable technologies to help meet the energy gap.
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 3
FreeLawLineservice forNAPITMembers Legal cover of up to £25,000 NAPIT in conjunction with Law Line UK offers free legal advice and legal cover of up to £25,000. The legal cover is helpful where there is disagreement over a contractual matter between a member and customer. In Law Line UK’s experience, small to medium sized businesses are the most likely to be involved in a legal dispute but the least likely to be able to afford to pay lawyers to assist in the resolution of such disputes. Law Line UK offers access to legal advice from a panel of carefully chosen solicitors on a full range of legal issues including all aspects of company/commercial law, tax, property, employment and dispute resolution – including court action.
Advice line on hand to support In the case of a dispute, NAPIT members should initially contact the NAPIT helpline number. Generally, issues in connection with defective work will be dealt with by NAPIT. If an issue cannot be resolved by NAPIT personnel, members will be advised to contact the Law Line UK helpline number. Law Line UK personnel will provide initial telephone advice to members on any legal problem they may have providing a written contract exists with the customer.
Legal action through the courts If further legal action through the courts is required, Law Line UK will appoint one of its panel solicitors to represent a member up to and including the initial trial. The first £50 of any costs incurred in court action in a case will be paid by the member. All other costs will be covered by the agreement between NAPIT and Law Line UK. To take advantage of this service, NAPIT members’ must have a written contract in all transactions. NAPIT members can obtain a sample written contract for use in their business from NAPIT by visiting the members section of their website or by purchasing an NCR pack from the NAPIT Customer Services section. The Law Line UK service is free to all members but is subject to certain terms and conditions. Please visit NAPIT’s new website for details www.napit.org.uk. Should a dispute arise in the future just ring 0870 933 0241.
NEWS
New Microgeneration CP scheme off to a flying start at Ecobuild NAPIT has launched its new Microgeneration Competent Person Scheme. It is designed to encourage members – and new applicants – to take advantage of the business opportunities available among the fast-emerging microgeneration technologies. It will also protect consumers and satisfy the demands of government in its push to encourage the growth of renewable The NAPIT stand at Ecobuild, where interest in renewables was high. technologies. foothold in the market for this new technology.” The new NAPIT scheme requires approved The scheme was launched at the Ecobuild installers to be used where government grants are Exhibition at Earls Court, London, with visitors flocking available for microgeneration installations. This to the NAPIT stand. John Andrews added: “We were includes work involving solar energy, photovoltaic cells, pleased that the launch of our new scheme was well wind turbines, biomass combustion and heat pumps – received. It offers great value for money and a areas where the skills of electrical contractors can competitive alternative to other schemes in the market make an impact. place. This exhibition has shown that installers are The Government is giving money in grant form for looking actively to expand their portfolio of services and such work and NAPIT wants to ensure that members in doing so further their businesses in an ever don’t miss out. expanding industry. NAPIT chief executive John Andrews said: “In a time of recession this is a great opportunity for electrical contractors and similar specialists in the building For further information on NAPIT’s new services field to expand their offering to the customer. Microgeneration Competent Person Scheme The UK market for renewable energy products and telephone 0870 444 1392 or email: services is growing. We want our members to claim microgeneration@napit.org.uk their slice of the cake. “We will do all we can to support them in gaining a
Disbeliefoverindustryexclusion NAPIT has expressed disappointment that the construction industry has not been included in the recently-formed advisory panel covering access to professions for the Government’s New Opportunities White Paper. NAPIT chief executive John Andrews said: “Once again the Government has shown its almost total ignorance of the importance of the construction industry in our economy and the quality of professional engineers that the UK produces. “The construction industry produces almost 10 per cent of the United Kingdom’s gross domestic product
and employs more than 1,250,000 trades people and professional engineers. “It is disgraceful that this wealth-creating sector is sidelined in this way and I have written to the Cabinet Office Minister Liam Byrne to express my disappointment that our sector has not been asked to contribute to the work of the panel.”
John Andrews: White Paper criticism.
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 5
NEWS
Webackbuildingcampaign NAPIT is supporting the Get Britain Building campaign. A coalition of trade bodies – including NAPIT – launched the initiative by presenting a ten-point plan to construction minister Ian Pearson. Aimed at helping construction firms survive the recession, the campaign wants the Government to consider the plan to help revive the building industry. NAPIT chief executive John Andrews said: “It is vital that real action is taken, not just eye catching sound bites that sound good but achieve little. During the last recession the UK construction industry lost over 500,000 skilled jobs and this is a situation we just cannot allow to happen again.” The ten points are: • ensure responsible lending to prudent borrowers coupled with the reintroduction of mortgage interest tax relief • cut VAT from 17.5 per cent to 5 per cent for all building repair and maintenance work • implement a strategy to deal with the UK’s existing housing stock by helping to create more homes and making existing stock more energy efficient • set targets for all local authorities to fast
track the planning process to release and designate land for social housing • simplify the planning system • produce an implementation plan to show the timings and location of public spending on schools, hospitals and prisons to ensure that projects are completed in 2009 and 2010 • introduce a Section 106 agreement holiday and then subsequently cap the value of Section 106 agreements. Abandon the proposed Community Infrastructure Levy • reduce the regulatory and Get Britain Building protesters in Westminster. fiscal burden A spokesman for the campaign said: “We • reform stamp duty with a graduated tax have got together to show the government a like income tax united front. The message is what needs to • reintroduce empty property rate relief. be done to boost our industry, needs to be More than 30 trade bodies and a cross-party done now.” group of MPs are backing the campaign, including shadow construction minister Mark Prisk MP. Businesses are being urged to To get involved with the campaign contact their local MP to push for adoption of and for more information visit the ten points and to add the Get Britain www.getbritainbuilding.org.uk Building campaign logo to their company websites.
Keith’swindturbinejobsuccessstory NAPIT member Keith Jones has just completed a job to construct a wind turbine at a Shropshire dairy farm. Keith, based at Upton Upon Severn in Worcestershire, has been working in microgeneration for the past 18 months. This is the 14th job of this kind he has been involved in. The 15 kW wind turbine manufactured by Proven Energy was installed at Hole Farm, Alberbury, Shropshire. The system will produce 15,000 kW of electricity a year – helping to run the milking equipment and also providing energy for commercial and domestic premises on the farm. Keith, who runs K J Jones Electrical Services, was responsible for the electrical installation, working in conjunction with Natural Power and Aeolus Power. He said: “It was a fairly straightforward job taking
about two days. “The farm is situated on a hill. There is an average wind speed of 5.6 metres a second. So it’s in a good position, mounted on its 15-metre tower. It has three-phase output on to a single phase from the Distribution Network Operator. We calculate that the turbine will reduce energy consumption on the farm by 20 per cent.” The customer received a grant from the Carbon Trust towards the cost of the installation. The trust provides grants for businesses and public bodies to encourage them to cut their energy consumption. Keith urges other NAPIT members to look for the business opportunites presented by microgeneration, especially with the Government looking favourably at providing more grant aid for such work.
6 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
The full story behind the construction of the wind turbine will feature in the next issue of The Competent Person.
Work taking place on the Shropshire wind turbine.
COMMENT FREE seminars on wiring regs Don’t miss our free Regs to Riches seminars on the 17th Edition Wiring Regulations. The seminars were launched in February by NAPIT in conjunction with Megger and Seaward and the reaction from members has been good. Head of NAPIT Inspections Richard Gould will be explaining how meeting the requirements of the wiring regulations – and finding practical working solutions – can have a positive effect on profitability. Doors open at 4.30pm, so you can have a cup of tea before the start at 5pm. The seminars will finish at around 7pm but may continue afterwards until all your questions are answered.
Dates for diaries and venues: Seaward Seminar April 16
Vauxhall Recreation Centre, Luton
Megger Seminars April 21 May 7 May 21 June 2 June 10 June 24 July 7
Penzance and Newlyn RFC Reading Rugby Football Club Wrexham Golf Club Galleon Hotel and Leisure Club, Didsbury Sheffield United Football Club The Green Mann Inn, Fownhope, Hereford The Park Hotel, Taw Vale, Barnstable.
To book your place at these special events please contact the NAPIT sales team on 0870 444 1392 or email info@napit.org.uk
Jersey training NAPIT are staging two special weeks of electrical training in Jersey with the emphasis on the 17th Edition Wiring Regulations. A three-day course and a one-day update on the 17th Edition are being held at Highlands College, St Saviour, during the week starting April 27. NAPIT are also running the two-day Certificate of Competence Assessment during the same week. All three will be repeated during the week beginning May 11. To book your place telephone 0845 20 20 148 or email info@napit.org.uk
The launch of the NAPIT Microgeneration Competent Persons Scheme at Ecobuild was well received by the eco-manufacturing industry and the installers we met, including builders, electricians and plumbers. I am confident that microgeneration and renewable energy will provide opportunities for NAPIT members and my advice is to explore this sector as soon as you can. Be warned though, we must be careful that advice and claims about these technologies are truthful and not over optimistic. Be prepared to advise your clients when it is not in their interests to undertake a specific installation. In the long run you will gain by reputation. We have had a fantastic response to the LABC Approved Electrical Inspectors’ Register with more than 500 applicants sending their forms in already – and they are still arriving. An invitation has been sent to the first 300 or so successful applicants to meet us so that we can ensure that everyone fully understands both the system and their specific role within it. Others will be contacted at a later date to increase the numbers that are available for local authorities to access and use. Plans for the roll out of the scheme will (hopefully) be finalised on April 21 when NAPIT managers meet with the LABC and the other scheme operators. Turn to Pages 10 and 11 for David Cowburn’s explanation of our Complete Solution philosophy. You will see we have always kept to our core objective, which is to maintain and raise standards in the electrical industry within our role as an electrical registration and standards assessment body and as a trade association. On Pages 12 and 13 you will find some great news about the newly formed NAPIT Insurance Services. We will be working more closely with Clarke Roxburgh to ensure that NAPIT members have access to some fantastic business insurance products designed for electrical contractors and electrical inspectors, their businesses and their families. Finally, on Pages 20 and 21 there is an article on interest-free loans available from the Carbon Trust for small to medium-sized businesses to go green. It is important to always be on the lookout for opportunities. This may be an attractive initiative that you can offer or introduce to your customers. Go on, use your imagination, see what you can come up with. Kind regards
John Andrews B.Sc. MIoD Chief Executive – The NAPIT Group NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 7
INDUSTRY NEWS
A round-up of the stories making the news in other publications from the building services industry
New warning on workplace safety Employers are being urged to take action to prevent slips, trips and falls in the workplace – part of the second phase of the Shattered Lives campaign, launched by the Health and Safety Executive. Sixty one people died and more than 14,000 suffered serious injury as a result of a slip, trip or fall from height in UK workplaces last year.
Bogus plumbers The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering is urging members of the public to be wary of bogus plumbers who do not hold industry-recognised qualifications. CIPHE chief executive Blane Judd said householders should always ask for proof of qualifications before allowing a plumbing or heating installer into their home. Heating and Ventilation News
Clothing concerns Fake and substandard high-visibility clothing is putting workers’ lives at risk. Documents seen by Health and Safety at Work magazine’s sister publication Health and Safety Bulletin show that major retailers throughout England have been selling substandard high-visibility garments. And, following HSB inquiries, the Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform has promised to fund an investigation into the problem. Health and Safety at Work
Cables’ danger The British Approvals Service for Cables is stepping up its scrutiny and testing of cables on the market with the support of the British Cables Association. BASEC purchases a range of products from the open market to check conformity. End users also approached BASEC when they experience problems with cable they
To help firms, the HSE has launched STEP – a free interactive learning tool that offers guidance on tackling slips, trips and falls in the workplace. Visit www.hse.gov.uk/shatteredlives website for more information. Turn to Pages 30 and 31 for a detailed look at working at heights. Health and Safety News
have purchased. On testing. many of these are found not to comply with British Standards and some could be considered dangerous. Electrical Contracting News
Pier blaze delay The official report into the catastrophic fire that destroyed Weston-Super-Mare’s 104year-old Grand Pier last summer, published by the Avon Fire and Rescue Service, attributed the most likely cause to “an electrical fault of unknown origin” – evidence being limited due to the severity of the fire and by being lost in the sea. Unfortunately, there had been a delay of over five hours between the fire alarm signal being received by a monitoring company and the fire brigade being called by a member of the public, giving the fire plenty of time to get a firm hold on the historic structure. Switched On
Lighting phase-out The European Union has announced its desire to phase-out incandescent light bulbs in the EU by 2012 – possibly starting as early as this September. It is hoped that, as a result of this phase-out, customers will significantly reduce energy consumption and fight climate change. Lighting accounts for 19 per cent of all electricity used. A potential energy saving of up to 70 per cent can be achieved by applying the latest solutions which include installing sensors
8 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
Powerful imagery is used to highlight the Shattered Lives campaign.
and replacing lamps. Professional Electrician and Installer
Gas register name Gas Safe Register is the new brand name for Capita’s gas registration scheme. Capita’s scheme replaces CORGI’s registration scheme from April 1 and installers will need to be registered to operate legally. The Gas Safe Register will provide a service for notifying work under the Building Regulations but it will not be compulsory to register. Fees will be £3 to notify by telephone and £2 online. Heating and Ventilation Review
Migrants ‘essential’ Migrant workers will play a vital role in the UK’s economic recovery, according to a report from the Institute for Public Policy Research. They will be an essential part of the UK workforce during the recession, the institute says, if large-scale projects such as the London Olympics go ahead as planned. An additional 40,000 construction workers a year will be needed until 2012. Immigrant workers will be necessary to ensure projects are completed and to help to fill the skill gaps. Building Services Journal If you spot an interesting industry story in the media, email the Editor magazine.editor@napit.org.uk
SPECIAL FEATURE
Getting tough ondebt Clive Lewis of the Institute of Chartered Accountants with advice on how to take legal action over late payments
One of the toughest decisions a business has to take is what to do if a customer has not paid an outstanding invoice – and despite repeated telephone calls or letters they still don’t pay up. Firstly, you have to be clear that the customer does not have a valid reason for not paying. It can be as simple as the details on the invoice are not correct or do not comply with their requirements. Alternatively, they may have a complaint about the quality of the goods or services supplied which they maintain has not been satisfactorily resolved. In either case, the reason must be addressed before taking further steps to recover the debt. Assuming that you do not believe the customer has a valid reason for non-payment you have a few choices. • Involve an accountant or solicitor offering debt collection services. They can issue powerful letters which sometimes result in payment. • Use a debt collection agency which will be experienced in dealing with unresponsive debtors. • Use a debt collection agency to issue a statutory demand promising an application to the court for the formal winding-up of the customer’s business if payment is not received within 21 days. This only works where the customer is a limited liability company and the debt owed is over £750.
• Finally, you can take legal action to recover the debt. This should be a last resort. As this will involve additional cost and can be time consuming. It is wise to find out if the customer has the means to settle the debt. If they are bankrupt or in liquidation, the debt is probably irrecoverable. What to do depends upon the amount of the debt. The County Court has three case management tracks – small claims, the fast track and the multi-track. Once a claim is made to the court (and the claim is defended) the County Court allocates the case to one of the tracks. Claims up to £5000 can be dealt with by the small claims track of the local County Court. You do not have to be represented by a solicitor so the costs can be limited. But you do have to complete the claim yourself. Claims for larger sums may be eligible for the High Court. It is advisable to take legal advice before proceeding with High Court claims. This alternative requires building a strong case for a claim and considering how costs will be met. Whichever course of legal action you choose, you must send a final warning letter before you begin. It often prompts payment as the debtor realises their time is up. In addition the courts may penalise you on costs if a final warning letter is not sent.
FREElegaladviceforNAPITmembers NAPIT members can use the Lawline UK helpline number to obtain FREE initial telephone advice on any legal problem they may have. Lawline UK provide members with access to a firm of solicitors specialising in debt recovery at reduced rates.
For just £5 per letter, NAPIT members can have a seven-day solicitor’s letter sent chasing their unpaid invoices. Members simply need to provide a copy of the unpaid invoice(s) and the debt letter is dispatched the same day. Lawline can be contacted on 01246 459 515.
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 9
SPECIAL FEATURE
NAPIT’s Complete Soluti NAPIT director David Cowburn explains how your trade association can satisfy the demands of government, members and consumers
For decades, successive politicians have been promising “joined-up government”. A quick Google search for news articles on the subject will find you plenty complaints about its failures, or plenty calls for its importance, but little in the way of success. Imagine a house of the not-too-distant future, where the primary source of energy is a photovoltaic system, supplying an electrical under-floor heating system and hot water from an immersion heater. In order to have effective heating with a minimal electrical consumption, the house would probably have a heat recovery system. The installations that are involved in this example are an electrical photovoltaic panel, supplying DC electricity to an inverter or accumulator, powering electrical space heating, electrical water heating and the fan for the heat recovery system. Heavy on the use of electricians, and yet we have just described an installation covered by five different government departments requiring the membership of different schemes covering different elements of the work under different rules.
How it works The Department of Communities and Local Government (CLG) requires compliance with the Building Regulations, which in this case would cover the electrical installation (Part P), the hot water storage (Part G), the heat recovery system (Part F), without even touching on structure and accessibility. CLG also require an Energy Performance Certificate to be produced by a member of an Accredited Energy Assessor Scheme, which overlaps with the Building Regulations again in terms of the conservation of energy (Part L). Since May 2008 all new homes have been required to have a Code Rating against the Code for Sustainable Homes, yet another scheme under the umbrella of the CLG. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) requires that the installation complies with the Water Regulations. It is highly likely that future houses will use rainwater harvesting and what the regulators are beginning to call “unwholesome” water when it is not for drinking or food preparation. The need to avoid cross-contamination will be critical. All of these things are coming together in the Building Regulation’s next version of Part G, but almost in competition with the CLG approved Competent Persons Schemes, Defra have set up Approved Plumber Schemes. Eight of them. Our example involved a photovoltaic system. The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) are the new kids on the block in departmental terms,
10 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
but they have responsibility for renewable energy and the installation of microgeneration technologies.
Microgeneration certification DECC’s Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) requires approved installers to be used where government grants are provided for such installations. The scheme has different rules again, and on its own it does not allow the installation to be self-certificated against the Building Regulations. When we finally think about the householder, the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) want to protect consumers from the poor practices of the worst cowboys. They set up the TrustMark scheme so that membership organisations could demonstrate to consumers that their members followed good practices. However, TrustMark was already based on the best practice standard written by another government department, the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). They have a scheme called the Consumer Codes Approval Scheme (CCAS) which can approve schemes whose members work to a Code of Practice that meets OFT guidelines. In our example, we already had a requirement from DECC for the installer to belong to the MCS (for the photovoltaic system), and one of the rules of MCS is that you must belong to a scheme which is in the CCAS. It seems that the level of joined-up government thinking in this one, relatively uncomplicated, installation could be summed up by the view that they’ve created schemes and rules for each element of it, so go away and join those schemes.
The Complete Solution When NAPIT first launched its Complete Solution in 2006 by adding heating, plumbing and ventilation to its self-certification scheme for the Building Regulations, some saw it as a move away from its electrical membership, when it was in fact reflecting members’ requirements. A number of member companies on NAPIT’s Part P scheme were already working across disciplines and when CLG decided to introduce Competent Person Schemes in these other areas NAPIT’s members faced having to join other schemes just to comply. Joining such schemes would replicate the whole cost of membership just to have another assessment of the same work. This Complete Solution for members working across disciplines is a service that has been used by significant numbers of electrical members.
SPECIAL FEATURE
ion:aplanforaction DECC
CLG
CLG Part L
Part F Energy Assessor
Ventilation
NAPIT The Complete Solution
Microgeneration MCS
Defra Plumbing CLG
TrustMark Part G
CLG
NAPIT link
CCAS
Electrical
Part P
Consumer Protection BERR
Third party link
A similar approach was taken with consumer protection where NAPIT have worked to provide a solution that can be delivered by joining NAPIT alone, rather than having to join another organisation. Around half of NAPIT’s members choose to be covered by the TrustMark scheme.
Whole job thinking Looking to the future, many of NAPIT’s members see the huge potential of microgeneration installation work and are preparing to move into this area. Again, facing the prospect of having to join another organisation just to do a single job has become an issue. For a long period of time it looked as though government would appoint a single scheme operator for the Microgeneration Certification Scheme and exclude Building Regulations from its scope. Following intense lobbying from NAPIT and others in the industry it was agreed that MCS would be “one scheme” but delivered by membership of approved scheme operators. NAPIT are leading the way on this having completed the first stage of the three-stage approval process well before Christmas and launching a microgeneration register. By assessing “the whole job” and not the individual schemes, the immediate saving to microgeneration installers seeking to register with
OFT
NAPIT was demonstrated to be in excess of £1000, without any reduction in the quality of installation delivered to the consumer. In another link, the energy performance of microgeneration installations needs to be calculated using the government’s SAP (standard assessment procedure) methodology. This is the same procedure by which NAPIT’s accredited Energy Assessor scheme is approved.
The future NAPIT is continuing to work on the remaining requirement to join a separate consumer protection scheme for microgeneration, again with the aim of saving members money and time. We are also pressurising government to align schemes run by different departments, such as the plumbing schemes from both CLG and Defra. At the top of the article a single, simple installation was described that had government setting up schemes for Building Regulations (Parts F, G, L and P), Energy Performance Certification, Microgeneration and Consumer Protection. NAPIT can deliver all of these in a single membership. If joined-up government doesn’t deliver, at least NAPIT members have a trade association that can apply some joined-up thinking and provide some joined-up answers – that’s what we call the Complete Solution.
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 11
SPECIAL FEATURE
NAPITlaunchesnewinsu NAPIT head of legal services Mike Andrews on a new way to handle all the insurance needs of your business
As part of our aim to continue providing additional member benefits, we are delighted to introduce you to NAPIT Insurance Services. Here at NAPIT we understand that having the right insurance arrangements in place is critical to the success of your business. That’s why we will continue to work with our chosen business partner Clarke Roxburgh Insurance Brokers, offering you a comprehensive range of products but now through the newly-formed NAPIT Insurance Services. NAPIT Insurance Services is part of the Clarke Roxburgh Insurance Broking Group, one of the largest independent brokers in the UK with more than 40 years’ experience of providing customers with quality, tailored insurance and a personal service that is second to none. NAPIT has worked with Clarke Roxburgh for a number of years and we are delighted to be able to combine our expertise to bring you this new insurance offering. NAPIT Insurance Services provides a specialist business insurance product for electrical contractors. This insurance, tailormade to your requirements, provides you with There will be a friendly face at the end of the telephone. the essential cover you need as an electrical • tools and stock professional. This can include: • own and hired insurance in plant and equipment • public and products’ liability • performance bonds and insurance-backed • employers’ liability guarantees. • professional indemnity insurance for inspection This member benefit has been specifically designed and testing with advice and design also included to remove any worries that can be associated with • efficacy cover for fire alarms, systems and arranging insurance. Key features include: domestic burglar alarms • no declarations • personal accident insurance
NAPIT Insurance Services is a trading style of Clarke Roxburgh Insurance Brokers Limited. Registered in England No 1428872 and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority 310320. Registered Office: 24 Belle Vue Terrace. Malvern. Worcestershire. WR14 4QD.
Insurance is a key issue for the industry. 12 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
SPECIAL FEATURE
ranceservices • an interest-free direct debit payment option • minimal paperwork • instant quote and cover available. In addition to the core electrical contractors’ insurance there are a number of other key products that as a business you might also wish to inquire about. With NHS waiting lists as long as they are and with issues surrounding hospital cleanliness, now might be a good time to think about private medical insurance. The Healthcare team can provide you with no obligation specialist advice, including a free review of your existing cover to ensure that it meets your needs and that you’re paying no more than you need to. Or if you are thinking of medical insurance for the first time, why not let them help you? The loss of a key employee, shareholder or partner, through illness or death, is a serious risk that many businesses overlook, despite it having a potentially massive impact on the future security of the business. For expert advice on these issues and other financial risks the Financial Planning team are ready to help. In today’s economy, reviewing the financial requirements of your business regularly is essential. The Commercial Finance Team are able to offer assistance arranging vehicle finance and purchase – be it a car or a van – and asset finance, invoice finance and banking consultancy. There are also great deals on: • van insurance including FREE RAC breakdown cover • motor insurance including excellent premiums and special arrangements for young drivers • home insurance guaranteeing to beat your existing home insurance premium, subject to like for like cover, no previous claims and your property
Insurance designed for your needs. being free from defects and of normal construction • travel insurances, whether you are travelling on pleasure or business in Europe or further a field, we will have a policy to suit your needs • mortgages and more. NAPIT Insurance Services’ team are specialists in their field who pride themselves on combining expertise with excellent customer service. They are keen to talk when it suits you and can be contacted by telephone or email. Whether it’s time to renew your policy now or in the future, contact NAPIT Insurance Services today to find out more. Telephone: 0845 8330561 email: info@napitinsuranceservices.co.uk
Motor and travel insurance are available.
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 13
INDUSTRY SHOCKER! 50% of electricians are still not trained to 17th Edition The 1st July 2008 deadline to upgrade from 16th to17th Edition IEE Wiring Regulations has passed. Are your qualifications up-to-date? Why book your training course with NAPIT? Because the benefits you will receive include: • • • • • •
FREE lunch and light refreshments throughout the day Experienced instructors to guide you through the course NEW on-line exams High pass rates Receive a FREE Handbook on each course! For those who don’t succeed first time, all courses are offered again FREE of charge*
New dates for 2009 Venues
Courses
MAY
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*Exam fees must be paid by delegate Please note to be eligible for the 17th Edition update course you must have completed the 16th Edition full course after June 2001. Course dates may be subject to change
Book now on 0845 20 20 148 or email info@napit.org.uk We would like to visit a town near you. Get a group together to suggest your area and receive discounted training courses.
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To register your interest send this tear off slip to NAPIT, 4th Floor, Mill 3, Pleasley Vale Business Park, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG19 8RL. Tel: 0870 444 1392 Alternatively, email these details to info@napit.org.uk
SPECIAL FEATURE
Train for success at work NAPIT senior technical officer Paul Markham explains why continuing your professional development is crucial Right: training plays a vital role in our industry.
Being able to prove to your client that you are a highly trained, registered contractor working in the building services industry can only benefit your business. In doing so, the professional needs to display assurance and confidence in their ability and offer a complete package to the customer. One of the best ways to achieve this is through NAPIT Training – offering a large range of high quality training courses with assessment to suit everyone. Highly qualified and experienced tutors provide training to suit the individual. Course materials are of high quality with all required reference materials available to the student for the course and the assessment. Examinations are taken in a relaxed atmosphere and are mainly computer-based and online. Results are usually obtained upon completion. Our pass rates are exceptional. NAPIT training and assessment rooms contain fully functional testing rigs for three phase and single phase installations – with use of all tools and up to date testing instruments available during courses.
After the training there is excellent back-up and support from tutors and the NAPIT Technical Helpline. From booking the course to applying the knowledge on site, NAPIT offers a complete package. NAPIT is an approved City and Guilds’ training centre. For full details on the training courses offered by NAPIT turn to Page 37.
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TECHNICAL
Discrimination: selecting Bill Allan provides a basic guide to the demands of the regs in this area of work
Discrimination is a word that rightly evokes disapproval when used in normal conversation but when used in an electrical context denotes an essential principle of design. Without such discrimination, there could be inconvenience, increased costs and, in the worst situations, danger. Section 536 of BS 7671:2008 deals with, Coordination of protective devices which includes discrimination (also called selectivity) between protective devices. In this article I will consider the relevant requirements in BS 7671:2008 – giving guidance on the more common combinations of series-connected protective devices. It is appropriate, at the outset, to refer to Regulation 314.1 which requires that the design of every electrical installation must avoid hazards and minimise inconvenience in the event of a fault. Such inconvenience can only be minimised if discrimination is achieved between protective devices which are in series with each other.
A definition
Fig 1
Energy let-through of a fuse A = Point where disconnection starts B = Pre-arcing time C = Arcing time B+C = Energy let-through
Current (A)
Peak prospective fault current A
o B
Fig 2
Time
The discrimination principle applied to fuses Upstream fuse Total I2 t Downstream fuse
I2 t Total I2 t
Pre-arcing I2 t
Pre-arcing I2 t
Discrimination between protective devices consists of providing coordination between the operating characteristics of protective devices such that, under fault conditions downstream (further from the origin), only the protective device immediately upstream (closer to the origin) of the fault operates, leaving the other protective devices upstream of the fault unaffected and able to supply the remaining healthy circuits. Discrimination must be applied between fuses, circuit-breakers and RCDs.
Design of circuits The characteristics of protective devices must be selected in accordance with the general fundamental principles of Regulation 132.8 which requires consideration of: • overcurrent protection • earth fault current • overvoltage 16 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
C
Current rating of a fuse, In
• undervoltage and no-voltage. Regulation 536.1 deals with the co-ordination of protective devices in series in order to prevent danger and to ensure proper functioning of the installation. This regulation insists that consideration be given to “selectivity and/or any necessary back-up protection”. It is beyond the scope of this article to examine back-up protection. The term defined in Part 2 Definitions and Regulation 536.4 contains a specific requirement for it under stated conditions. However, the general principle used for back-up protection – sometimes called cascading – is shown in Fig 5. The rated breaking capacity of each protective device at each point where the device has been installed must not be less than the prospective fault
TECHNICAL
g the weakest link • and the arcing time. The pre-arcing time is the time taken for disconnection to occur. This is when the element of the fuse starts to melt. This is also called the pre-arcing energy or the Time pre-arcing I2 t, abbreviated to I2 t (seconds) (pa). After disconnection, an arc appears between the terminals of the fuse or between the contacts. The arcing time is the time between the disconnection having occurred and the arc having been Thermal or extinguished. The total energy letinverse Magnetic or instantaneous through, I2 t – abbreviated to I2 t (t) characteristic characteristic – is the pre-arcing time plus the arcing time. Fig 1 shows what is meant by energy let-through (See Current (amps) The Competent Person, Number 3, 2008, Page 12, Fig 3). For discrimination to occur, the total energy letcurrent (short-circuit or earth fault current) unless backthrough I2 t (t) of a downstream fuse must be less than up protection is provided. If back-up protection is provided, a breaking the pre-arcing I2 t (pa) of the upstream fuse. That is, the capacity less than the prospective fault current is downstream device operates while the upstream device allowed as long as another protective device (a back-up is unaffected (Fig 2). device) is installed upstream. The characteristics of As a general rule of thumb, discrimination will be both devices must be co-ordinated such that the energy achieved between fuses in series where the current let-through of the upstream device will not damage the rating of the upstream fuse is twice that of the downstream device. The energy let-through is known as downstream fuse. I2 t, although, strictly speaking, I2 t isn’t energy. When expressed as current2 in amps, A multiplied by times in Circuit-breaker to circuit-breaker seconds, t (A2 t), it gives the energy dissipated per ohm discrimination and represents the thermal effect on the circuit. The unit of energy is the Joule and the energy required to In considering discrimination between circuit-breakers, activate a protective device is given by I2 Rt Joules. This the operating characteristic of circuit-breakers must be taken into account. Fig 3 shows this familiar is comprised of: characteristic, with the thermal and magnetic regions indicated. At low levels of current, the thermal element Power = I2 R watts within the c.b. will operate. In this region, the Energy = Power (watts) x Time, t (seconds) characteristic is inverse (the higher the current, the (This is watts x seconds which gives Joules) quicker the disconnection time). At higher current levels, = I2 Rt Joules the magnetic element within the c.b. will operate, disconnecting the supply current typically within 10ms However, manufacturers quote short-circuit values of (0.01 S). This is regarded as instantaneous I2 t because this is the same for both protective device disconnection. and circuit. The I2 t value – the “energy let-through” – Fig 4 illustrates how discrimination is achieved determines the amount of damage and stress a between circuit-breakers with A being the downstream conductor will suffer. The I2 t value for a particular device device with the lower current rating and B being the must prevent conductors rising to their limiting upstream device. A fault downstream of A results in a temperature which would result in them being fault current, if iF1 is greater than the current level damaged. required for magnetic operation of the downstream circuit-breaker B but is within the thermal operation Fuse to fuse discrimination region of the upstream circuit-breaker A. This means that circuit-breaker A will operate but In analysing fuse to fuse discrimination, it is necessary to understand two terms: Continued on page 18 • the pre-arcing time
Fig 3
Circuit-breaker characteristics
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 17
TECHNICAL
Discrimination: selecting the weakest link CONTINUED Fig 4
Time
The discrimination principle applied to C.Bs Downstream device A
Upstream device B
(seconds)
Current (amps)
Fig 5
iF1
iF2
The discrimination principle applied to a fuse and a circuit-breaker
Time (seconds)
Maximum fault current for discrimination (i.e. only C.B.operates) Current (amps)
circuit-breaker B will not, ensuring discrimination. The fault current level iF2 is greater than the current level required for magnetic operation for both circuitbreakers. This means that both devices will operate, discrimination will not be achieved and all circuits fed by the upstream device A will lose their supply. Where electronic circuit-breakers are used, discrimination is possible at fault current levels such as iF2 but this needs to be confirmed by the manufacturer.
Fuse to circuit-breaker discrimination The fault rating of a fuse is normally greater than that of a circuit-breaker and, for this reason, fuses are often used to back up circuit-breakers. Fig 5 shows this arrangement with the upstream device A being a fuse and the downstream device B being a circuit breaker. 18 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
The upstream fuse A must be able to limit the energy let-through such that the downstream circuitbreaker B is not damaged. If correctly selected, discrimination can be achieved, although it can be seen from Fig 5 that it depends on the magnitude of the fault current. A downstream fault current approaching the level at point 0 (the intersection of both lines) will cause the circuit-breaker to operate and discrimination will be achieved. Fault currents greater than point 0, will operate both the fuse and the circuit-breaker and there will be no discrimination. The current at point 0 must not exceed the rated short-circuit capability of the circuit-breaker Icn.
RCD to RCD discrimination
Regulation 531.2.9 requires that where two or more RCDs are in series discrimination must be achieved for compliance with the requirements for fault protection or otherwise to prevent danger. Regulations 314.1 and 531.2.4 regarding unnecessary tripping of RCDs are particularly important in o this regard. Having two RCDs in series with different operating currents, such as an upstream 100mA device and a downstream cn I 30mA device, will not necessarily ensure discrimination. Discrimination between two RCDs in series is accomplished by using an upstream device having a time-delay facility incorporated. The downstream device must operate before the delay in the upstream device has expired. In this situation, the downstream RCD may need to disconnect all live conductors. The general requirements for RCDs given in Regulations 531.2 to 531.5, as appropriate, must be complied with.
Conclusion Space prohibits me from going further into the subject of discrimination other than dealing with the basic principles. In all situations regarding discrimination, the manufacturer’s instructions/information must be taken into account.
MEMBERS
Regional council news from across the UK Chairman of the NAPIT Trade Association Dennis Denholm with a round-up of the issues making the headlines
Spotlight on certification The next key issue at your council meeting will be certification. Any problems associated with this topic can be discussed at a local level. Please bring information on this subject with you – bring some evidence if you can too – and write it down in note form to assist with the debate. It does not matter how small or insignificant the
issue, it will be dealt with at the meeting and actioned for the appropriate area of expertise to deal with within the NAPIT Trade Association and the NAPIT Group. Please contact Patrick Cantrill at NAPIT HQ about other agenda items or if you wish to become a member of a regional council.
West Midlands The meeting was held at the Bridge Hotel, Prestbury, Cheshire. Council members suggested that NAPIT’s new electronic newsletter could be used to distribute trade association information between the various NTA Regional Councils.
NAPIT Trade Association meetings
Newcastle The meeting was held at the Holiday Inn, The Great North Road, Newcastle. Council members discussed the possibility of improving domestic PIRs and referenced the updated version of the ESC PIR booklet from the NAPIT download section of the members’ website.
Swansea Matters discussed at the Express Holiday Inn included Lawline. Council members said that they had used this service from NAPIT and were impressed. Reference was made to a recent article in the Professional Electrician magazine about charging interest on unpaid invoices.
Dates for your diary: April 21 Express Holiday Inn, Swansea April 22 Holiday Inn, Filton, Bristol May 11 Blackheath Rugby Club, South London
Bristol The meeting held at the Holiday Inn considered redesigning the notification screen display via a matrix system to include the number of accessories per circuit.
May 13 NAPIT HQ, Mansfield May 20 Bridge Hotel, Prestbury, Cheshire May 25 Holiday Inn, Norwich June 15 Holiday Inn, Newcastle
East Midlands The meeting held at NAPIT Head Office in Mansfield looked at improving the notification process by the production of a flow chart and a CD for field officers to hand to members on assessment. It would be a new way of field officers demonstrating the notification process to members. Information could be supplied via the members’ download section of the NAPIT website.
For more information about events and meetings involving the NAPIT Trade Association visit www.napit.org.uk or telephone 0870 444 1392
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 19
SPECIAL FEATURE
Join the ‘millionaires’ A new initiative from the Carbon Trust offering businesses interest-free loans to cut energy in the workplace could boost work in the building services industry and help NAPIT members
A new campaign has been launched by the Carbon Trust to mobilise UK business and help them in the recession by saving at least £1 million a day through cost effective action on climate change. The campaign is backed by business groups, leading companies, and Dragons’ Den entrepreneur Theo Paphitis, all urging business to immediately prioritise cutting carbon by saving energy to cut costs. In its new One Million A Day campaign, the Carbon Trust is urging businesses of all sizes – including sole traders – to join up and prioritise actions to kick-start immediate energy savings, reduce carbon emissions and make significant direct costs savings. Small to medium sized businesses are also being encouraged to take advantage of a £35 million Carbon Trust fund to upgrade or replace existing equipment to more energy efficient versions using unsecured, interestfree loans ranging from £5000 up to £200,000. The monthly loan repayments on unsecured interest-free Energy Efficiency Loans could be covered by immediate savings on energy bills, say the Carbon Trust.
The campaign’s target is to help save the UK economy £1 billion over the next three years and reduce the UK’s carbon emissions by at least 17m tonnes CO2 – the equivalent to annual emissions from heating nearly 5.5 million average UK homes. Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Ed Miliband welcomed the initiative saying: “We are no longer choosing between what’s good for business and what’s good for the environment. By taking action now to reduce energy use and cut
Improving maintenance schedules can save you a packet.
20 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
Tom Delay, chief executive of the Carbon Trust, and Theo Pa carbon from our goods and services, British business has the opportunity to not only save money and create jobs, but set us on the path to becoming an innovative low carbon economy.” The Carbon Trust says most businesses could save up to 20 per cent on energy bills by taking low cost or no cost action on energy efficiency. This includes updating lighting and installing more efficient heating systems.
Three key areas for immediate action Energy management – last year UK businesses working with the Carbon Trust implemented energy saving measures including metering and monitoring, staff awareness and setting board level policies to effectively identify opportunities and monitor results, that will save over £64 million a year Improved lighting – installing controls, replacing and upgrading lamps to energy efficient versions and installing motion detectors are a few examples of action that will enable more than £11 million worth of savings in a year. Efficient heating – upgrading inefficient boilers, installing controls, improving insulation and improving maintenance schedules will lead to savings of over £8.5 million a year. Tom Delay, chief executive of the Carbon Trust,
SPECIAL FEATURE
to go green What is the Carbon Trust? The Carbon Trust is an independent company set up by government in response to the threat of climate change, to accelerate the move to a low carbon economy by working with organisations to reduce carbon emissions and develop commercial low carbon technologies. The Carbon Trust works with UK business and the public sector through its work in five complementary areas: insights, solutions, innovations, enterprises and investments. Together these help to explain, deliver, develop, create and finance low carbon enterprise.
aphitis at the launch of the One Million A Day Campaign. said: “As UK companies look for strategies to weather the recession it makes business sense to join the Carbon Trust campaign to cut costs by cutting carbon. “We want to take £1 billion off the energy bills of UK plc over the next three years by saving at least £1m a day through cutting carbon emissions. All businesses – whether big or small – should realise easy cost savings by taking sensible energy efficiency measures. Every business should be asking how much cash their company can save by cutting carbon.” Dragons’ Den entrepreneur Theo Paphitis said: “Businesses of all sizes need to find ways to cut costs in this economic climate – that’s a fact. But there are ways to save cash without affecting the day to day
Installing energy efficient windows is a simple way of keeping costs down in the workplace.
running of the company and finding ways to reduce energy is one sure-fire way to do this. Whether a business has already made a start in this area or has yet to get going, there is help and support on offer from the Carbon Trust, including interest-free loans for small businesses.” Neil Bentley, director business environment at the CBI commented: “The CBI welcomes these measures to reduce energy consumption, which will save money, increase economic efficiency and cut carbon emissions. We particularly welcome the increase in interest-free loans to small and medium-sized companies, from £50,000 to £200,000, to upgrade or replace equipment to improve energy efficiency. “This increase, combined with making the loans easy to access, will make a real difference. Small firms are very important in the quest to cut UK carbon emissions. For example, they account for 45 per cent of the potential to reduce emissions via more energyefficient buildings, according to the Climate Change Committee.” As part of the campaign small and medium sized businesses are also being encouraged to get involved and use the Carbon Trust’s new online carbon saving advice, with practical action guides, web tools and videos and a range of sector-specific guides including offices; retail and distribution; hospitality; engineering, mining and quarrying.
To check eligibility for the interest-free loans and for more information visit www.carbontrust.co.uk/loans or call the free dedicated Carbon Trust Advice Line on 0800 085 2005
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 21
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MEMBERS
Day in the life of a NAPIT member Londonbased NAPIT member John McLester recalls a typical work day for an electrical contractor in the south east
7.30am – Kettle on. Radio 2 on. Porridge on. Start loading the van up. Keep an ear out for any horrible traffic that might ruin the day. I prepare that nectar of the gods – tea for my flask. We have all done it. That sinking feeling on the road. What was forgotten? Was it the sarnies, the tea or both? That really does makes the day start badly. Isn’t it odd that you never forget the power drill? The next trial is the travel. London is assumed to be the worse place for traffic but listening to the radio every tradesperson has his or her own misery run. As with many this morning, it’s the A13. Soon it’s evident that arrival time may have to be adjusted. I heard the word “slow” on the traffic announcements.
Midday – putting the board in will be a struggle since the chippy has put a cupboard over the existing one. Looks like that will be completed tomorrow. Time for tea and pilchard sandwiches. The secret of a great pilchard sarnie? Jamaican hot pepper sauce!
8.30am – time to reflect on the day ahead. Most work this year has been remedials for landlords. This morning it’s smoke alarms everywhere for what is termed a reluctant landlord. My party line: “I only give you the information so you can make an informed decision.” This guy decides on a full on smoke, heat, radio-linked system. He’s OK and after a few stories about what we have all seen in rented places – including a burned out one – he’s made his decision. Included is a new 17th Edition board. My advice for landlords is to put all circuits on RCD – stops the dodgy hairdryers, lamps and extension leads from hell being used.
2pm – drama. Mark the decorator comes barreling in screaming about his van. Out we go to find the door jimmied and the lock popped out on mine. He went to get something only to see the culprits then legging it down the road empty-handed. Very rare for them to leave in such a manner. These are the scum who come round on Fridays on the sites with power tools for sale. Ever seen a van without lock damage? Sure you have – inside garages with zero miles on the clock.
9am – arrive on time. A miracle. The lads are there doing the make over. It’s harder being in each other’s way but makes the day go quicker. Radio 2 should be given an award as the tradeperson’s best friend. I start on the replacement sockets – the conversion type from single to double. They’re OK but nowt better than the real thing. 10am – first bad news. The wholesaler has messed up and not included the mcbs or the interface box for the alarm. I get him on the blower. He will send them around. At break-time the decorator and his crew tell a glum tale of lack of work. The phone rings – hopefully it won’t be the same type of call now on the increase. With the downturn, the fantasists and time wasters are definitely on the pace, along with the advertisers and “tradesman verifiers”. But no, it’s one of my favourite clients. A lovely lady from St. Lucia. She wants a new bathroom light put in. She was done over by someone who made a complete mess of converting a large room into two. My “make-gooder” is Curtis who always makes good. He sorted the place out after I played hunt the fault for two hours or so on the lights. For these customers – only our best advice and best price.
1pm – the smoke detectors are going in well. I warn the clients not to buy cheap ones. There is a nasty one supplied at a low price by a certain large wholesaler. Everything about it is hard work including a small screw to secure the battery cover. Clearly designed for ease of assembly by small hands.
3pm – Steve Wright in the afternoon tells us that it’s the final furlong. So time to get on the pace. 4.30pm – time to tidy up and load the van. The client tells us we can leave our tools. No chance. Half of London will know a refurb is on the go. Thieves might decide to pay a visit after the disappointment of messing up our vans. So it’s everything away including the materials. I don’t want to find I can’t finish the job because everything has been nicked. 5pm – telephone rings. Can I quote for a new board and a landlord certificate? Seems my price is way off acceptance level. Who can do a periodic inspection and test for £60? Like to meet them. They can work for me. I am always wary of phone calls at this time. Sometimes the caller has been ringing around all day. Time to face the journey home and hope there are no holdups. 7pm – the last chore of the day. Chuck all the tools in the house. Clean the flask etc, etc. One thing that electricians don’t suffer from – insomnia. Tomorrow is another day. Maybe it will be one of those “average ones” someone asked me about. NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 23
MEMBERS
Ground level view of und Roger Ryan discovers that the team behind Warmfloors is happy to take the heat from business even in a recession
Starting up a business can seem a risky venture at the beginning but the rewards are usually obvious from day one. Being you own boss, calling the shots affecting your future and having the satisfaction of knowing that it’s your baby are definite plus points. The downside can be lack of sleep, working all hours of the day and cancelled holidays. It’s not easy to strike a balance. Russel Zera and his friend of 15 years, John Hayton, were looking for something different. Something new. So in 2004 after being approached by a supplier, they decided to launch their own business, Warmfloors – online retailers of underfloor electric heating systems. Since then they haven’t looked back and nowadays wouldn’t want to work any other way. Based in Keighley in West Yorkshire, Warmfloors offers a complete and convenient alternative to traditional electric heating – supplying, designing and installing underfloor electric heating systems. Russel is a qualified electrician. John takes on the role of sales and marketing man but like Russel handles all the other tasks required to ensure the success of a small business. They make an impressive team. Russel says there are many benefits to installing underfloor electric heating systems but there are three key points to remember: • it takes up no wall space • is silent to run • and is maintenance free. Russel explains: “Underfloor heating provides an ideal air temperature profile in your room through the correct balance of radiant and convected heat. With traditional heating most of the heat is convected air, which rises, making the ceiling a very warm and wasteful place. “However 50 per cent of warmth from underfloor electric heating is radiant heat, allowing the floor to evenly distribute heat, which is absorbed by the people and objects in the room. “Also the radiant heat from underfloor heating dramatically reduces the constant air circulation causing cold drafts and dust.” Underfloor electric heating requires an
24 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
24˚ 21˚ 20˚ 50˚ 16˚
14˚
15˚
How air circulates in a cold room.
20˚
20˚
20˚
20˚
20˚
20˚
How underfloor heating keeps a constant circulation of warm air.
MEMBERS
derfloor heating
The bare bones of underfloor heating. electrical inspection every ten years. This can be tied in with the domestic electrical inspection. In contrast, radiators and traditional heating systems that use water pipes and boilers require a yearly servicing. Russel adds: “Electric underfloor heating is perfect for retro fitting into existing rooms. This is because we can keep the floor heights to a bare minimum. Floor build can be as little as 3mm in some cases which hardly makes an impression on floor heights. This is perfect. Floor heights into existing rooms can be a problem and every millimetre counts. “It has been proven that our systems can make an energy saving of 15-40 per cent on traditional heating systems. This not only saves you money but has a positive effect on your carbon footprint.” Typically, this dry form of underfloor flooring is laid on top of an existing sub-floor. Installation of the system is straightforward, simply un-pack – get your knee pads on and get ready to install it, says Russel. A typical under wood/laminate floor heating pack is supplied with the following components as a complete kit: • 130w or 160w per m² carbon heating film with cold tails attached • 6mm or 12mm Depron insulation, depending on your application; Depron is also the underlay for the flooring • a digital thermostat and floor probe with a built in seven-day timer • a moisture barrier • and an easy to follow floor plan showing which order to lay the heating film. The carbon film system is not suitable for installation in a bathroom because it is not an earthed product.
Once the carbon film is installed, the wood or laminate floor can be installed directly on top, no need for any messy screeds or wet adhesives. There is no need for any additional underlay as the Depron insulation that comes in the kit is the underlay as well. Radiators are considerable dust collectors and give off ideal moisture levels to support dust mites. Electric underfloor heating removes any chance of dust mites with zero moisture content and no dust collection. This also provides welcome news for asthma sufferers.
Warmfloors has been a member of NAPIT for three years. Russel says that they signed up because “NAPIT cares for the smaller guy, makes life easy and has been really helpful.” He enjoys reading the comments from the Online Forum on the NAPIT website, “there’s always someone with the expertise to sort out a problem,” and finds the technical helpline extremely useful.
Russel says the recession has left its mark but otherwise the business is “ticking over nicely”. Looking to the future, he is keen to explore further the business opportunities to be found in solar heating and renewable energy sources. Away from work Russel enjoys fly-fishing and walking. Warmfloors has been awarded IS0 9001 Quality Certification for the supply and installation of underfloor heating systems. Russel is looking to expand the business and would like to work with fellow NAPIT members. “We can supply, design and install the systems – we are looking for people who can look after the electrical needs and connect it up,” he says.
If you want to know more about Warmfloors telephone 0800 0433 195 or visit www.warmfloorsonline.com
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 25
TECHNICAL
Appendix 15: standard r Bill Allan returns to the 17th Edition regs with a reminder of the rules for both types of circuit
I don’t know about you but after having to come to terms with the numerous changes in the 17th Edition, it was reassuring to see the familiar ring and radial circuit diagrams in Appendix 15. There were some mistakes in the Appendix and these have largely been corrected in the Corrigendum of July 2008 which is freely available on the IET website, www.theiet.org Let me begin by reassuring you that the guidance for standard ring and radial final circuits has not changed – except for the need of a Residual Current Device for the protection of socket-outlet circuits not exceeding 20A and for the use of ordinary persons (see Regulation 411.3.3). However, ring and radial final circuits are such a fundamental topic for most electricians, we felt that we ought to summarise the requirements in an article. It should be emphasised at the outset that, even when using standard circuit arrangements such as those in Appendix 15, specific requirements or conditions may require some modification in the design of the circuit.
Standard final circuits There are three types of standard final circuit arrangement using socket-outlets and fused connection units as shown in Table 1 below.
BS EN 61009-1(RCBO) • circuit-breakers to BS EN 60947-2 • Type 1, 2 and 3 circuit-breakers to BS 3871 (for existing installations).
Ring final circuits The only regulation dealing directly with ring final circuits is Regulation 433.1.5 and it states that the overload protection requirements of Regulation 433.1.1 are met when: • the current-carrying capacity (Iz ) of the cable in each part of the circuit is not less than 20 A (this is after allowing for any necessary rating factors to be applied) and • the load current in any part of the ring circuit is unlikely to exceed for long periods the currentcarrying capacity (Iz ) of the cable under the intended conditions of use. To this end, larger items of current-using equipment, such as immersion heaters, cannot be plugged into a ring circuit but require a separate circuit. Similarly, cookers, ovens and hobs with a rated power exceeding 2 kW cannot be supplied from a ring circuit and must be installed with their own dedicated radial circuit.
Table 1 – Standard final circuits using BS 1363 socket-outlets and connection units Current rating of overcurrent protective device (A)
Minimum crosssectional area of live copper conductors (mm2 )
Maximum floor area served (m2 ) Historically, these limits have been adopted
A1 – ring
30 or 32
2.5
100
A2 – radial
30 or 32
4
75
A3 – radial
20
2.5
50
Type of final circuit
Table 1 tells us that: • the number of socket-outlets on an A1 ring circuit is unlimited provided that the floor area served does not exceed 100 m2 • the number of socket-outlets on an A2 radial circuit is unlimited provided that the floor area served does not exceed 75 m2 • the number of socket-outlets on an A3 radial circuit is unlimited provided that the floor area served does not exceed 50 m2 . Table 1 is applicable for circuits having the following overcurrent protective devices: • fuses to BS 3036, BS 1361, BS 88 • Type B and C circuit-breakers to BS EN 60898 or
26 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
Socket-outlets must be located to provide reasonable sharing of the load around the ring circuit. Ring circuits must have an adequate number of socketoutlets in order to discourage the use of extension leads and long flexible cords on equipment (see Regulation 553.1.7). Due to the number of items of electrical equipment commonly located in kitchens, these may require a separate socket-outlet circuit. Where the requirements for a ring final circuit cannot be complied with, consideration could be given to the installation of a 4mm2 radial circuit. The design current of the ring final circuit is normally taken to be the nominal current rating (In) of the overcurrent protective device. However, it is
TECHNICAL
ring and radial final circuits Fig 1
Ring circuit – A1
Fused spur
Fixed equipment
Unfused spur
important that a check is made to ensure that the value of the connected load does not exceed the rating of the overcurrent protective device. Fig 1 shows a typical ring final circuit with both unfused and fused spurs. When adding a socket-outlet to a ring circuit, it is often easier to do so by using a spur of which there are two types.
BS 1363-4 Fused connection unit (FCU)
Unfused spurs
Live conductors are 2.5mm2
Live conductors are 2.5mm2 Neutral conductors
Protective conductors Line conductors
Consumer unit Neutral Bar Earth bar
The number of unfused spurs connected to a ring circuit must not exceed the total number of socket-outlets and items of stationary equipment connected directly to the ring. An unfused spur can be connected to a socket-outlet on the ring circuit or it can be connected by means of a suitably rated junction box or it can be connected at the origin of the circuit in the distribution board. An unfused spur can supply only one single or twin or multiple socket-outlet or one item of permanently connected equipment. Permanently connected equipment must be provided with local overcurrent protection. A local means of isolation is also generally required for current-using equipment requiring control unless the overcurrent device is to be used as a switch (see Regulation 537.5.1.3 and Table 53.2 of BS 7671:2008).
Note: In Figs 1,2 and 3, a reduced protective conductor is permitted. Note: In the three diagrams, these circuits would require a 30 mA residual current device if the BS 1363 socket-outlets have a rated current not exceeding 20 A, are for use by ordinary persons and are provided for general use. (Regulation 411.3.3)
30A or 32A Protective device Maximum floor area served is 100m2
Fig 2
Continued on Page 28
Radial circuit – A2 Unfused spur
Unfused spur
2
4mm Live conductors
4mm2 Live conductors Neutral Bar
Neutral conductors
Protective conductors Line conductors
4mm2 Live conductors
BS 1363-4 FCU
2.5mm2 Live conductors
1.5mm2 Live conductors
Consumer unit Earth bar 30A or 32A Protective device
Maximum floor area served is 75m2
Fused spur
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 27
TECHNICAL
Appendix 15: standard ring and radial final circuits CONTINUED The electrical industry considers that the current drawn by one 13A socket-outlet – including a twin or multiple socket-outlet – will not exceed 13 amps and that the cable supplying that socket-outlet on an unfused spur will not be overloaded. It is protected against a fault by the overcurrent protective device of the circuit (see Regulation 433.3.1).
Fused spurs A fused spur can be connected to a ring circuit by means of a Fused Connection Unit (FCU) and the current rating of the fuse in the FCU must not exceed the current-carrying capacity of the cable forming the spur and must be not greater than 13A. The type of overcurrent device within a fused connection device is not limited to a fuse. A circuit-breaker could be used. The number of fused spurs which can be supplied by a ring circuit is unlimited and the number of socketoutlets which can be supplied by a fused spur is determined by current rating of the fuse in the FCU. The current-carrying capacity of a cable used on the output side of an FCU may be reduced appropriately depending on the current rating of the fuse. The FCU for a spur may or may not be directly connected to the ring. In either case, the number of socket-outlets supplied from the FCU is dependent upon the load characteristics, with diversity being taken into account. The FCU can be switched or unswitched as required.
Radial circuits Radial circuits are often considered to be more economical to install than ring circuits, especially in
Fig 3
large premises where bringing a cable from the furthest socket-outlet back to the consumer unit or distribution board could effectively double the length of cable used. The same restrictions mentioned above regarding unfused and fused spurs applying to ring final circuits, apply to radial circuits also. As shown in Table 1, there are two types of radial circuit (A2 and A3) and these are shown in Fig 2 and Fig 3 respectively. Two comments need to be made regarding the A2 (4 mm2) radial circuit in Fig 2. The first spur is an unfused spur connected to the radial circuit at a socket-outlet, resulting in three 4mm2 cables at a socket-outlet. Some manufacturers say that three 4 mm2 cables can be terminated into their socket-outlets but a deep backbox (typically 35 mm) must be used for extra wiring space. Manufacturers guidance must be followed in this regard. The second spur is wired in 2.5 mm2 cable with no suitably rated fused connection unit to provide this cable with overcurrent protection. This is acceptable because the same comments made regarding unfused spurs in rings circuits apply here.
Conclusion I hope this article has proven to be a useful summary of the requirements for ring and radial circuits. Further information on socket-outlet circuits can be obtained in IEE Guidance Note 1 Selection and Erection – this publication has been updated to the 17th Edition – and Appendix 8 of the IEE On-Site Guide. Inspection and testing of ring and radial circuits is covered in IEE Guidance Note 3.
Radial circuit – A3 Unfused spur 2.5mm2 Live conductors
2.5mm2 Live conductors Neutral Bar
Neutral conductors
Protective conductors Line conductors
BS 1363-4 FCU
2.5mm2 Live conductors
1.5mm2 Live conductors
Consumer unit Earth bar 20A Protective device
28 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
Maximum floor area served is 50m2
Fused spur
MEMBERS
Influence in the corridors of power Roger Ryan explains how NAPIT makes a difference
The NAPIT team works hard to represent members’ interests to ensure that your voice is heard when and where it matters in the building services industry. If you look at a typical month, NAPIT officials will be involved in a succession of meetings with political figures, decision makers and opinion formers in the electrical industry and other building services’ skills areas. In March this included the House of Commons Microgeneration Skills’ Discussion Group – a think tank on skills and schemes for a low carbon economy. NAPIT also chaired a meeting of the Microgeneration Governing Body – the committee controlling the NAPIT microgeneration scheme. Other members on the committee include the Electrical Safety Council, the Heating and Hotwater Safety Council and the Association of Personnel Certification Bodies, all influential industry bodies. NAPIT has contact with the Government on a regular basis through the Competent Persons’ Forum – the organisation representing the common interests of all
Competent Person schemes. Here your trade association meets with other scheme operators and Local Authority Building Control. Talks on the new Energy Performance Certificates involving the Department of Communities and Local Government were also held during March. NAPIT is a member of the CLG Committee on Energy Performance Certificates. This committee looks at the standards and software relating to Energy Performance Certificates and Part L of the Building Regulations. Another key group is the ISO 17024 scheme committee. This controls the UKAS accredited certification scheme for the competence of electricians. Meetings with MPs, industry insiders and influential training certification scheme bodies also featured during this month. Changes are happening in the building services’ industry and NAPIT can be found at the heart of where it matters – making sure your voice is heard. Below is a list of other key meetings and events attended by NAPIT officials in recent weeks:
The Joint Industry Board to discuss items and areas of common interest The National Construction Academy for talks on the future of training in the industry Guest speaker at the Northern College Forum on changes to the Building Regulations and enforcement initiatives Talks with the Bathroom Manufacturers Association to discuss standards in the industry Meeting with LABC regarding the new Approved Electrical Inspectors List Guest speaker at the National Conference of the Local Authority Building Control about Part P and compliance issues Talks with the KBB National Training Group re training and standards within the industry Attended the Office of Fair Trading Consumer Code conference Talks with SEMTA, the Sector Skills Council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies in the UK, on industrial and commercial electrical issues Attended the Electrical Industry Forum Attended the TrustMark Industry Forum Attended the TrustMark board meeting (a NAPIT director is also a TrustMark director) Attended the TrustMark Insurance Review Working Party Attended the Electrical Safety Council Technical Committee Attended the Electrotechnical Assessment Scheme Management Committee Talks with the LABC on the new Approved Electrical Inspectors List Attended JPEL/64 Technical Committee – Panel D – External Influences JPEL/64 Technical Committee – Panel B – Thermal Effects JPEL/64 Technical Committee – Panel C – Verification JPEL/64 Technical Committee – PIR Working Group JPEL/64 IEE Wiring Regulations Committee
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 29
SPECIAL FEATURE
No shortcuts to working s Dr Wilf Archer of Mindskills Therapy and Competence Coaching with a reminder of why the laws on working at height cannot be ignored
How well do you comply with The Work at Height Regulations 2005? It is quite common for people to believe that the Work at Height Regulations only refer to ladders, steps, scaffolds and podiums but it is much wider in scope than that. So what constitutes Working at a Height? To paraphrase the legislation: “Work at Height is any work above, at or below ground level, anywhere where a person could fall a distance sufficient to cause personal injury.”
Properly planned Surprisingly, there is no mention within the regulations as to what is meant by a height, except in relation to the distance and consequences of a potential fall. So a ditch, a kerb or embankment are considered just as much a height as a ladder, stage or rooftop. For example, if someone is injured by falling off the second rung of a ladder then you could be in breach of the regulations. You may consider that by not suggesting a specific minimum height sounds crazy but it makes sense. No height is mentioned because it forces the person in charge of the job to ensure that it has been properly planned, the risks suitably assessed and above all the appropriate controls to protect the worker from falling have been implemented. Therefore if you could be considered an employer, self-employed, or a person that controls the work of others – for example, a facilities manager or building owner who may contract others to work at height – then under the regulation you are the duty holder and as such could be called to defend yourself should someone become involved in an fall at work. You would think that in the 44 years since the introduction of the Health and Safety at Work Act, and the amount of legislative compliance since then, that most duty holders and workers would be aware of their basic responsibilities to protect their workforce. That is not the case.
Security guard Breaches of Work at Height Regulations are everywhere. Go on to any building site or business premises any day of the week and you will see workers using the wrong ladders, steps, walking on fragile roofs or stretching precariously on the brink of balance – either ignorant of their responsibilities and duties or complicit in their disregard. Let me give you an example. I was at my local indoor shopping centre the other week and saw a workman standing on the glass roof panels. Worse than that, he was drilling the very frame 30 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
he was standing on. I always carry a camera with me, so I took a photograph. It’s just a habit we safety practitioners get into. I was then greeted by the security guard shouting from about 50 metres away: “Hoy, mate! What do you think you are doing?” Pointing to the roof and moving from under the fall zone – the guy was now stomping on the edges of the glass pane he was standing on – I explained that this worker was in imminent danger of falling through. “Never mind him,” said the security guard. “Don’t you know it’s illegal to take photographs in a town centre?” By the way, it is not illegal to take photographs in a town centre but it does show how skewed our society has become when it is more important to protect the public from the dangers of photography and forget the fact that in the UK a worker a week dies as a result of falling from a height and ten a day are seriously injured. If someone is injured as a result of a fall from a height, irrespective of the distance fallen, and the accident investigation finds that there was a failure on
SPECIAL FEATURE
safely at height Far left: Aim for the highest levels of safety. Left: Having the right equipment is essential.
the part of the supervisory chain to plan, assess and implement the appropriate controls, then each person involved in the chain of events could face a fine, two years imprisonment or both. Now that may sound heavy handed but ask yourself this question: If you were a Government with a cash flow problem and you had an easy target for raising finances, such as health and safety breaches, what would you do? Company insurance may pay your costs but it won’t pay your fines or serve your sentences. Don’t waste what little cash flow you may have in ignoring your health and safety responsibilities, compliance is always cheaper in the long run. Likewise, showing your record of compliance should give you the contractual edge over the cutcost cowboys.
Complying with the regulations Complying with Health and Safety legislation isn’t difficult and Work at Heights is no different. All you need to do is apply a little common sense before the event. For example: • follow your risk assessments and make sure all work at height is planned, organised and carried out by competent persons • take steps to avoid, prevent or reduce risks • choose the right work equipment for the right job • select collective measures, ones that protect the greatest number of workers such as guard rails in preference to harnesses.
If you are unsure about where to begin visit the HSE website at www.hse.gov.uk/falls/index.htm
There are other considerations that are often overlooked, even by the most competent people. These are the human factors that might prevent a person from working at height. You should know if an employee or contractor suffers from heart problems, alcohol or drug abuse, epilepsy, or severe lung conditions or any other health condition that might affect the health and safety of themselves or others. You must then include the protection measures within your risk assessment. Everyone who is a duty holder or who works at height has a legal and a moral obligation to know how to work at height safely. You are probably doing this anyway. However for those who aren’t, anything less should be considered negligent and as such will have consequences. Gravity is no respecter of human life or dignity.
Note: The ongoing improvements and clarification of legislation means that Work at Height Regulations have two references: • Work at Height Regulations 2005 • Work at Height (Amendment) Regulations 2007
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 31
MEMBERS
Would you believe it? More examples of madness from the electrical world sent in by members and NAPIT technical officers
Jim Rushton, of Rushton Electrical and Property Services of St Ives in Cornwall, writes: “Here is a perfect example of the need for the more mature Sparky – who believes his 30 years’ experience overrules the need – to update his knowledge and skills. This is part an electrical installation completed eight years ago by an electrician with that 30 years’ experience. The only thing he appears to have done correctly is select a cable with a steelwire armour to supply a detached garage for power and lighting. The rest of it to me is verging on the criminal.”
Steve Hubbard from Norwich-based Russell Hubbard displays the object of derision. This he came across while working locally. The job involved the installation of a new boiler system. While updating the electrical side, he discovered that in the feed to the room thermostat the wiring was incorrect. What’s more, at the control box, a bare cable was evident. This became live every time the system was switched on. You couldn’t make it up, could you?
NAPIT technical officer Jim Follon found this coupling used as a connector underneath a floorboard during a rewire of a house. Jim says: “The picture speaks for itself.”
NAPIT group technical officer Frank Bertie says: “When we were trying to trace out the circuit wiring the plywood flooring had to be lifted. To our horror we found seven sets of open pvc connectors in different cables. “There were a mixture of socket, lighting and shower circuits. Upon further investigation, it appeared that a fire had damaged the structure and the cables in the property and an extensive amount of rebuilding work had been carried out. Instead of replacing the fire damaged wiring the builder had used open pvc connectors to affected circuits. “Talk about out of the frying pan into the fire, I don’t think this could be classed under Building Regulations’ Part P as leaving the building in no worse condition.”
32 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
If you have any pictures or stories of electrical nightmares for Bodger Watch, email them to the Editor, magazine.editor@napit.org.uk or post them to the Editor, The Competent Person, 13 Claremont Road, Eaton, Norwich, NR4 6SH.
TECHNICAL
Ask Eddie The technical team looks at two questions often asked of NAPIT.
?
If you have a question for Eddie email the Editor, magazine.editor@napit.org.uk
Is it permissible for cooker switches to be located within kitchen cabinets?
A
This question arises frequently due to customers asking that cooker switches be located inside adjacent kitchen units – usually because of space restrictions or because of some perceived aesthetic consideration. I’ll assume that the accessory in question is a 32A or 45A double-pole cooker switch with no socket-outlet incorporated, that is, to BS EN 60669-1:2000. In addition, there would seem to be little point in having an indicator light on the cooker switch if it is to be located in a cupboard. Much discussion has taken place over which particular switching function(s) a cooker switch serves. These functions are found in Section 537 of BS 7671:2008. Indeed, Table 53.2 includes switching devices to BS EN 60669-1 as well as cooker control units to BS 4177:1992, which have a socket-outlet incorporated. It is generally agreed however that, whichever switching function is invoked, a cooker switch by convention must be adjacent to the cooking appliance and readily accessible. NAPIT believes that it is preferable for a cooker switch to be fixed to the fabric of the building and to be visible – that is, not inside a kitchen unit. That being said, the practice of positioning cooker switches inside adjacent kitchen units would not
infringe any requirement of the Building Regulations providing they remain readily accessible. Kitchen units are made typically of melaminefaced chipboard, 18 mm thick, enabling a good fixing to be made. The switch should be positioned towards the front of the cupboard and fixed in a position that minimises the possibility of mechanical damage to the switch. The cables entering and leaving the switch must be mechanically protected. Some will object to this practice, claiming that the switch is not readily accessible. The question of accessibility is a vexed one, not least because the requirements of Part M will often be brought up. However, if a customer, having had the issue of accessibility put clearly to them, and accepting the implications for that particular household, still insists that the cooker switch be located in an adjacent unit, there is no compelling reason, technical or otherwise, to refuse. In that situation, the location of the cooker switch should be recorded on the electrical certificate with the explanation that this was at the customer’s request. The requirements of the manufacturer of the cooking appliance, including any which pertain to the location of the cooker switch, must be complied with.
What should I do when I have found a defect where there is risk of an electric shock to the client or to people in the premises? I came across that type of situation in a place when I was not working – where a socket had been damaged and had live parts ready to touch. I spoke to a person in the building but how do I know the message has been passed over or that I carried out my duties as a competent person?
? A
The best way in these circumstances is to provide a written record of the defect and recommend that urgent action is taken to remove the danger.
Unfortunately in the electrical industry we do not have the legal authority to isolate a dangerous situation but we do have a duty to recommend action is taken.
NAPIT now has Dangerous Situation Report forms available which can be used for these purposes. They are available from our head office in Mansfield or the online shop. Telephone 0870 444 1392 or visit www.napit.org.uk
NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 33
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SPECIAL FEATURE
Time to bag a bargain Roger Ryan with an update on the market that includes a look at a new addition from Ford
Top right: Most van owners are opting for a service rather than buying new vehicles. Right: Ford’s new Transit Chassis Double Cab Utility with a Special Vehicle Option.
With the nation in the grip of recession, good news on motoring is in short supply. The sale of new vans has crashed and in the words of an industry-expert “things are fairly challenging at the moment” for the manufacturers. For the record, there’s been a 30 per cent drop in sales compared to the same time last year. Many businesses are putting on hold thoughts of buying new vehicles. Repair rather than replace is the order of the day. Book another service and sit tight before making any decisions on replacing vehicles, many industry insiders are recommending. The logic behind this is undeniable but with vehicle prices frozen – and in some cases dropping – if you have the money available, and the time is right for you, go for it. You have never been better placed to bag a bargain with your local dealer. Manufacturers are working overtime to tempt you to part with your hard-earned cash. Volkswagen Commercials has recently been offering fixed-cost service plans for every model in their commercial offering. Ford say the Transit has never been cheaper, “costing less than it did in 1995”. While Citroen are offering impressive savings on their contract hire options. The ball is in your court, so strike a good deal. Amid all this gloom and doom, I am pleased to say that the manufacturers are still producing those golden apples. One such I drove recently was Ford’s new Transit Chassis Double Cab Utility with a Special Vehicle Option. Something of an oddity, it is a pick-up that thinks it is a van. Aimed at the local authority market but with scope to
touch on the needs of the building services’ industry, this new Double Cab Utility features unglazed second row cab doors opening on to a load space with the rear seats removed. In short, it offers a secure area out of sight. A panel van bulkhead, available at an extra cost of £247, provides further peace of mind. Consequently, a bed-mounted box is not required which would otherwise take up load space, add weight and reduce the payload. Few would deny that load security is a key issue for all van owners. Lockable space behind the front seats is a welcome addition. A Thatcham approved Category 1 alarm is also available on the Double Cab Utility, as an option priced at £175. As I discovered on a test drive around the countryside amid the rolling hills of the Chilterns, the vehicle also boasts a shift indicator light. Located in the instrument cluster, it illuminates for a short period at the optimum time to change to a higher gear. Although if you put your foot down too hard, brake sharply or keep your foot on the clutch it does not cut in.
Six-speed gears That side, the SIL, Ford say, can improve fuel economy, reduce CO2 emissions and decrease wear on the engine and transmission. I liked it and found myself reacting to its appearance as I passed through picturesque Buckinghamshire towns and villages. A six-speed manual gear box and the 3.2 Duratorq TDCi engine boasting some 470 Newton metre torque ensured progress was never slow. Prices for the Double Cab Utility begin at around £21,800. I am not suggesting it would be the choice of everyone but it is an alternative worth considering if you are heavily involved in commercial and industrial work and need a combined van and flat-bed. NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk 35
Bring a mate and get FREE calibration Bring a friend to one of our new calibration sessions and you will receive your calibration free if your mate joins NAPIT on the day. This great offer is only available at our calibration days held accross the UK. A range of electrical products and accessories from leading manufacturers are available to purchase on the day. Bring your NAPIT membership number with you and you’ll receive a discount. There’s also great savings for those who pre-register or pay in advance and a great deal for those who wish to extend certification periods in advance of the deadline – just bring your existing certificate along.
For pricing or to book your place please call The Calibration Centre directly on 01785 600691 Day / Month
Area
Venue
April 21
Brighton
Brighton Rugby Club
April 22
Poole
Denman’s Electrical
Special products from ... The versatile KT65 multi-function tester Fortunately the 17th Edition Wiring Regulations did not impact greatly on the installation testers that you use. Your 16th Edition testers are perfectly satisfactory. However there are two areas that will have an impact on your future purchasing. The first is the much greater use of RCDs. It will soon be common practice that each circuit will have to be individually RCD protected. This means that you will be testing more RCDs. In this respect, the KT65 digital multi-function tester makes an ideal partner with its comprehensive RCD function. It measures: • Type AC (AC only and the most popular in the UK) • Type A (DC sensitive) • Selective RCDs (time delayed) • General RCDs. An auto-test and ramp test are also very valuable features. The auto-test means that you only press the test button once to run
through all the six tests for each RCD. You only have to stand and stay by the RCD to reset it after each trip. When you return to your KT65 all the results will be displayed on one screen. The ramp function measures the mA that the RCD trips at. This is used to determine whether the RCD is near its lower tolerance and therefore likely to nuisance trip. As well as fault finding earth leakage problems, if an RCD is tested with no load and the mA reading recorded, then if the RCD is fully loaded and the test is repeated, the difference in mA will be the total leakage on the circuits protected by the RCD. By process of elimination any circuit with high leakage can be identified.
The KT65 tester from Kewtech: a valuable tool.
SHOP ONLINE AT www.napit.org.uk or call 0870 444 1392
TRAINING
Stay current with NAPITtraining N
E
W
C
O
U
R
S
E
3-Phase Distribution & Control (theory and practical) This new two day course is designed for Electricians who are already fully experienced in the Inspection and Testing of Single Phase Distribution Systems and is intended to widen their existing skills base to cover larger systems. Please see dates below.
• Use of latest tools and test equipment • FREE lunch and light refreshments throughout the day • Experienced instructors to guide you through the course • NEW on-line exams on selected courses • High pass rates • Receive a FREE Handbook on both of our 17th Edition courses • For those who don’t succeed first time, all courses are offered again FREE of charge**
Our full range of courses at our head office in Mansfield 3 day 17th Edition Wiring Regulations (City & Guilds 2382-10) Couse dates available: 11th – 13th May 22nd – 24th June 1 day 17th Edition Wiring Regulations (City & Guilds 2382-20) Couse dates available: 26th May 5th June Please note to be eligible for the 17th Edition update course you must have completed the 16th Edition full course after June 2001.
6 day Electricians Certificate of Competence (NA-ECC-6)* Couse dates available: 18th – 23rd May Please call for future dates. 7 day Dual Course Combined (City & Guilds 2382-10) & (City & Guilds 2391) Couse dates available: 11th –17th May Please call for future dates. 4 day Inspection, Testing & Certification of Electrical Installations (NA-2391) Couse dates available: 1st – 4th June Please call for future dates.
4 day Inspection, Testing & Certification of Electrical Installations (City & Guilds 2391-10) Couse dates available: 14th – 17th May Please call for future dates. 1 day Building Regulations for Electrical Installations in Dwellings (City & Guilds 2393) Couse dates available: 8th May 10th June. 10 day Allied Trades Part P (NA-DCC-10)* Couse dates available: 8th – 17th June Please call for future dates. 2 day Portable Appliance Testing (City & Guilds 2377) Couse dates available: 25th – 26th June Please call for future dates. 1 day Emergency Lighting (NA-EM-01) Couse dates available: 3rd June Please call for future dates.
1 day Completion of Certificates and Reports (NR-CR-1) Couse dates available: 28th May Please call for future dates. 2 day Certificate of Competence Assessment (2 hour theory & 7 hour practical) Couse dates available: 5 – 6th May and 27th –28th May. 22nd – 23rd June 2 day 3-Phase Distribution & Control (theory and practical) Couse dates available: 5th – 6th May Please call for future dates. 1 day Using Test Instruments (NA-UTI-1) Couse dates available: 12th June. Please call for future dates. Further Courses Available Please call for details: 2 day Introduction to Fire Alarm Systems (NA-FA1-2) 2 day Design, Commission & Inspect Fire Alarm Systems (NA-FA2-2)
Course Dates may be subject to change. * UKAS accredited through Blue Flame Certification. ** Exam fees must be paid by delegate.
NAPIT also run selected courses in regional training centres across the UK.
Book now on 0845 20 20 148 or email info@napit.org.uk • Professional • Friendly • Dynamic • Hands-on • Small groups • High pass rate •
MEMBERS
Spot the Spot thedifference difference and win and winaaDVD DVDplayer playe Here’s your chance to enter our new Spot the Difference competition. This time you have an opportunity to win a superb tablet-style portable DVD player. This great prize has been supplied by Schneider Electric, manufacturers of electrical distribution and automation control equipment. There’s also 100 runner-up prizes to be given away – handy Merlin Gerin locking devices, with LCD keyrings, for distribution boards and consumer units. All you have to do is study the two pictures sent to us by Schneider Electric. Circle six differences in the bottom picture and then fill in the form below. Send your entries to the Editor, The Competent Person, NAPIT Administration Centre, 4th Floor, Mill 3, Pleasley Vale Business Park, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG19 8RL, to arrive no later than May 5. The winner will be selected randomly from all current entries. Normal competition rules apply. The winner of the i-Pod in our Spot the Difference competition in Issue 1, was Ken Runcorn of Capricorn Plumbing, Bradley Stoke, Bristol. Congratulations go to Ken.
Name Company Job title Address
Postcode Tel Daytime/evening (please circle)
CLOSING DATE: MAY 5 2009 If you don’t want to spoil your copy of the magazine you can send in a photocopy.
38 NAPIT 0870 444 1392 www.napit.org.uk
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*
NAPIT Insurance Services is a trading style of Clarke Roxburgh Insurance Brokers Ltd. Clarke Roxburgh Insurance Brokers Ltd and Clarke Roxburgh Financial Planning Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority registered numbers 310320, 188859 Registered Office: 24 Belle Vue Terrace, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 4QD.