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News and Products
4, 6, 8, 9, 18, 19, 20, 21, 30, 31, 39, 47
Electrical Industry Awards
10 A chat with McNally and Thompson
Cover Story
12 A circular solution
Contractor Corner
14 Protect your tools and livelihood
15 Free online heat pump training
16 Practical advice: Five ways to improve workforce compliance
17 The Evolution of Facilities Management in 2024 Features LIGHTING
22 COP28 and save the planet? What is everyone waiting for?
24 How to successfully approach a lighting design brief
26 How the industry should respond to the climate crisis
28 A new era of sustainable light
CABLING
32 Cable gland ideas for the EMC Directive
33 The hot topic of fire rating cable management systems
34 Univolt UK get ready for 2024 FIRE, SAFETY & SECURITY
36 Mastering safe isolation
38 Fire protection provided at 5 Aldermanbury Square in London
40 What is the real risk of fire from solar panels?
41 New Fire Manager app
Last month we received the news that Labour are stepping away from their £28bn green spending commitment. Paul Eveleigh, managing director of Kensa Heat Pumps, shares his thoughts on what this means for the industry: “Businesses need certainty and consistency from politicians across the board - this allows them to seek investment and drive job creation. Instead, we’re seeing backtracking, watered-down policies and speculation about plans being pulled.
42 East Devon Council adopt strategy for net zero using Aico HomeLINK
We need to address the problem of avoidable hob fires
Terry Boswell, WISKA UK Ltd
Rally number five
Time to view batteries as essential for home energy management
“Labour’s decision, which comes off the back of reports the Government plans to scrap key elements of its Clean Heat strategy, only raises questions about how committed either party is to delivering significant green economic growth.
“The UK urgently needs to decarbonise homes and end the reliance on foreign gas imports. Doing this will give people the security they need over their bills, shelter them from future price rises, and improve the air they breathe.
“Labour’s plan should keep the country on track to deliver 600,000 heat pumps a year by 2028, and it won’t immediately affect Kensa’s long-term ambitions to significantly increase our production and workforce. However, politicians must understand that a constant chipping away of business confidence in future green markets will reduce investment appetite and will harm green economic growth.”
Lisa Peake, EDITOR, lisa.peake@purplems.com
Sales manager Haydon Rainsford haydon.rainsford@purplems.com Subscriptions Electrical Times, Perception, PO Box 304, London Road Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 9EZ T: 01825 701520 Email: purplems@my-subs.co.uk https://purplems.my-subs.co.uk
IN BRIEF
EVIOS, owner of premium home charge point provider Andersen EV, has secured £4m in its Series A. The round was led by Beringea, the transatlantic venture capital firm, and it brings total investment in EVIOS to £10m.
Colleagues from across the electrical sector have paid tribute to Anne Galbraith, who is stepping down as chief executive of the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) after 12 years at the helm.
The experienced CEO will be retiring in early April after overseeing the development of electrical apprentices and adult trainees across Scotland for more than a decade.
After 36 years working at Reading-based Manrose, Clive Britton has retired as sales director heralding the end of an era for the British fan manufacturer. Affectionately known in the electrical industry as Mr Manrose, Clive Britton is probably the longest serving sales director in the sector. Joining Manrose in 1987, Clive has been sales director through nine prime ministers and has seen a sector transformation.
The UK government announced new measures to support electric vehicle drivers as part of its broader Plan for Drivers policy, including grants for schools and new proposals to boost charge point numbers. However, the House of Lords has argued that more investment is needed if the EV rollout is to be taken seriously. This follows a recent enquiry into Britain’s electric vehicle transition strategy.
Global manufacturer of emergency lighting, Mackwell, has announced the launch of a new business – Mackwell Solutions. Mackwell Solutions is an Electronic Manufacturing Service (EMS) provider, developed to support businesses throughout the entire process of technical and engineering solutions from design to delivery.
Family-run business named ‘Electrical Contractors of the Year’ in regional awards hat-trick
Starkey Electrical was named ‘Electrical Contractors of the Year’ for 2023/24, marking the third year the business has won these particular awards, having been recognised for its loyal and engaged customer base.
Last year saw Starkey Electrical become one of only a handful of companies to earn the additional accolade of ‘multi-award winner’ having won ‘Sustainable Electrician Company of the Year’ following on from its success as ‘Electrician of the Year’ in 2022.
The company was praised for its positive engagement with customers on social media as well as customer reviews and testimonials. Starkey was also recognised for having built up a loyal customer-base in its local area.
Stuart Starkey, managing director at Starkey Electrical, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised for the third time. Our ethos at Starkey Electrical has always been, and will always be, to provide exceptional end-to-end customer service and, of course, doing an excellent job in the process.”
The Prestige Awards believe that SMEs are the backbone of any economy, awarding those which are achieving excellence while making an impact in their communities.
The team will be formally honoured at an awards ceremony on May 20 and 30, at Moor Hall Hotel and Spa in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham.
For more information on Starkey Electrical, please visit www.starkeyelectrical.co.uk
Plan to turn one of Europe’s deepest mines into gravity energy store
A small town in central Finland could host the continent’s first full-scale gravity energy store.
The community of Pyhäjärvi, with just 5,000 inhabitants, lies 450 km north of Finland’s capital, Helsinki. Nearby lies Pyhäsalmi Mine – Europe’s deepest zinc and copper mine – owned by First Quantum Minerals, a Canadian mining corporation, and descending 1,444 metres into the earth.
Gravitricity’s executive chairman Martin Wright said: “This project will demonstrate at full scale how our technology can offer reliable long life energy storage that can capture and store energy during periods of low demand and release it rapidly when required.
Many of the mine’s operations have now ended, but a plan to transform a disused shaft into an energy store – using technology developed by Edinburgh energy storage firm Gravitricity – could offer new opportunities for the remote community.
“This full-scale project will provide a pathway to other commercial projects and allow our solution to be embedded into mine decommissioning activities, offering a potential future for mines approaching the end of their original service life.
“It will also provide vital new low carbon jobs in an area which has suffered significantly from the end of traditional mining operations.”
UK Power Networks invests £11.5m in East Sussex power upgrade
UK Power Networks, which delivers electricity supplies to 8.5 million households and businesses across the South East, London and East of England, is constructing a new grid substation next to the existing substation in Broad Oak while protecting native dormice.
As part of the project, two new 60-megawatt, 60-tonne transformers have been delivered to the site. Once energised, these will receive power at 132,000-volts and step it down to 33,000-volts to distribute to substations and eventually local homes and businesses. The investment will more than double the capacity of the site to 78-megawatts, to maintain reliable electricity supplies into the future, including as more
low carbon technologies connect to the electricity network.
A 33,000-volt switchboard is also under construction, with new circuit breakers to enable control, protection and disconnection of the equipment, keeping power supplies safe and resilient. The new switchboard in Broad Oak will use environmentallyfriendly technology as part of the company’s commitment to reducing use of the greenhouse gas sulphur hexafluoride (SF6).
Before work started at the substation, which serves 22,800 properties, ecology surveys were carried out to check for all protected species, which identified that dormice were present. This led to creation of an enriched
dormice habitat on surrounding land, which included planting native trees, shrubs and installing nest boxes for dormice. Work to install and connect the new electrical equipment will continue throughout this year.
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Appointments
Kieran Coughlan, an engineer with a track record of shaping and growing teams, is to become director of Capital Programme at UK Power Networks. The move follows the retirement of Nirmal Kotecha who has had a successful career spanning more than 30 years in infrastructure.
EnviroVent is enhancing its commitment to the social housing sector by appointing James Kane as head of sales – Social Housing. James has been promoted to the role after being EnviroVent’s regional sales manager for London and the South East for the past two years. James has almost 20 years’ experience in the social housing sector.
Maintech Power, the High Voltage (HV) installation and maintenance specialist, has announced the promotion of Ashley Knox to head of operations (Projects) as the company strengthens its presence in key markets.
As part of its growth plans, the Ipswich-based company, is expanding with the development of two specialist teams. The first delivering major projects up to 132kV, and the second specialising in 11kV/33Kv projects now led by Ashley, who has been in the industry for more than 20 years.
Gary Pearson has been appointed chief operations officer at Britain’s premium home charging provider, Andersen EV, to strengthen the brand’s leadership team and further accelerate its current high rate of growth. Gary will report directly to David Martell, Andersen EV’s CEO, and majority shareholder.
Johnson Controls, the global leader for smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, has promoted Sarah Dixon to general manager, Fire & Security, effective immediately. Dixon brings a wealth of leadership knowledge and expertise in leading the commercial success of the business.
Homegrown
Obituary: Arnold Kammerling (1935 – 2024)
Carl Kammerling International are sad to announce that Arnold Kammerling, former chairman and managing director of Carl Kammerling International (CKI), passed away on January 29, 2024 at 88 years of age.
Arnold joined CKI in 1956 and played a pivotal role in transforming the business from a general hardware tool supplier to owner and supplier of the leading premium tool brand for professionals and electricians it has become today.
an apprentice and taking over the reins after his father’s death at only 32 years of age; he remained an instrumental figure in the company beyond his retirement in 2020.
Under his stewardship, the company expanded from a sixperson enterprise to Pwllheli’s largest private employer, with a workforce of 120 and with its products sold to over 20,000 stockists in over 40 countries.
Arnold was born in Wuppertal in 1935 and faced adversity during World War II when his home and the family business were decimated by an RAF bombing raid. Arnold’s family relocated to Wales in 1950 when he was just fifteen years old, establishing the company’s global headquarters there.
Arnold studied at The London School of Economics and decided at a young age to dedicate his career to C.K Tools, starting as
In 1993 Arnold was awarded an MBE for his contributions to Welsh industry and the region’s economic prosperity. He was further celebrated in 2004, receiving the prestigious Businessperson of the Year accolade at the Daily Post’s Achievement Wales Awards.
Arnold remained connected to his German roots throughout his life and will be laid to rest in his hometown of Wuppertal.
His legacy which will be cherished by his five children and five grandchildren, as well as his industry peers and colleagues.
ECA highlights importance of electrical sector in devolved nations
ECA, whose Members operate in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, is actively engaging with governments in all three nations to develop their net zero and skills initiatives. The association engages closely with policy makers in England and Wales to highlight the importance of its Members to reaching each government’s targets for net zero carbon emissions. It is looking forward to working with a restored Northern Ireland Executive, whose net zero target dates are earlier than both other countries.
Research by the Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP), of which ECA is a member, has shown that the UK as a whole needs to increase the number of electricians newly qualifying by up to 500 people per year to meet increased demand for solar PV, and between 200 and 500 people per year to hit targets for EV charging infrastructure.
To combat this issue, the ECA has proposed several policy changes through their Recharging Electrical Skills Charter. This includes increasing the annual number of electrical apprentices starting in England from 7,500 to 10,000. In Wales, the equivalent increase needs to be from an average of around 500 starts to 700 starts per year.
To learn more about ECA’s public affairs activity, visit eca.co.uk
Ground Source Heating on show for Cornwall MP
Cornish MP, Cherilyn Mackrory, was on hand to see how The Kensa Group is deploying Networked Heat Pumps to provide 140 new homes in Quintrell Downs, Newquay, with low-cost, energy-efficient heating.
Kensa CEO, Tamsin Lishman, was on hand for a close-up tour and demonstration of the renewable heating system being installed, which will save residents hundreds of pounds in annual heating costs.
Each modern home will have its own Kensa ground source heat pump connected to a Shared Ambient Heat Network, giving residents access to an effective, year-round clean heating system.
This significant project comes as Kensa, Britain’s leader in ground source heat pump technology, plans to deliver 70,000 heat
pumps nationwide by 2030, a move that will create over 7,000 green jobs and help bring people out of fuel poverty.
Tamsin Lishman, CEO of The Kensa Group, said: “I was delighted to show Cherilyn how Kensa’s ground source heat pumps will supply new homes with low-cost, energy-efficient, low-carbon heating.
“What we’re doing here at Quintrell Rise is a great example of how Networked Heat Pumps are a perfect green heating solution for new housing developments, benefiting both consumers and the environment.
“This model can be deployed at scale for new build developments across the country, and can even be replicated for complex-todecarbonise properties like retrofit high-rise flats or terraced streets.”
This latest development follows other energy-saving projects completed by the Cornish company, including the groundbreaking Heat the Streets project in Stithians, the retrofit of 273 high-rise flats in Thurrock and the installation at Trelissick House, an 18th-century National Trust property in Truro.
Appointments
Recolight announces the appointment of two new directors to its board. They are Steven Reed, commercial manager at Trilux, and Stephen Bell, services transformation & compliance director UK & IE at Zumtobel. Both have over 20 years of experience in the lighting industry and are a valued addition to the Recolight board.
Aztec Solar Energy Ltd has appointed Andy Rowlands in a brand new role as operations manager. Andy will manage and oversee the implementation to final delivery of projects for Aztec Solar Energy. He will have a team of project managers, logistics and the design team reporting to him.
CU Phosco Lighting is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Hiscott as their national account manager. With over 15 years of experience in the lighting industry, Ben brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team. Ben was one of the founding members of the Institution of Lighting Professionals’ ‘Young Lighting Professionals’ and was the youngest ever HEA-HEMSA Council Member.
Edwin James Group has appointed Geoff Bruce to head up the EJ Academy supporting learning and development (L&D) for the group. The newly created role is part of the company’s strategic growth plan and will increase focus on lifelong learning and managing the industry skills gap.
JTL has announced the appointment of Sandra Warren-Smith as its new national delivery director. In her new role, Sandra will oversee the management of JTL’s regional teams, training centres and apprenticeship programmes.
Sandra is poised to drive JTL’s mission of upskilling individuals through its leading apprenticeship programmes.
Calling all bright sparks… SkillELECTRIC 2024 now open for entries
Talented electrotechnical students are being encouraged to register for this year’s SkillELECTRIC competition. The application window is now open and runs until March 28, 2024.
The event is part of the WorldSkills UK competition network and is designed to promote and showcase high standards and skills across the electrotechnical industry. During the competition, entrants will be judged on a series of challenging tests in a bid to be named the 2024 SkillELECTRIC champion. It is organised by industry charity National Electrotechnical Training (NET) and has
Electric Center, the NICEIC and Scolmore Group as its delivery partners.
“If you’ve got a shining star in your company or classroom, why not enter them into SkillELECTRIC,” said Jennie Phung, SkillELECTRIC project manager at NET. “The competition process brings so many skills back into the business such as working efficiently under pressure, time management, precision and confidence. It also contributes to an apprentice’s 20 per cent off the job training requirement which is a great benefit.”
To register before March 28, 2024 visit www.skillelectric.org.uk/registration
AEI Cables wins support from electrical safety watchdog on new act
Cables leader AEI Cables has won support from electrical safety experts to highlight the importance of cabling under the new Building Safety Act. The Act – introduced from October 2023 – makes new requirements for ‘higher-risk buildings’ which are those deemed to be of at least 18 metres in height or at least seven storeys containing at least two residential units.
Luke Osborne, deputy technical director, Electrical Safety First, said: “The safety of people is the priority in this new legislation which ultimately makes all of our buildings a safer place particularly those where large numbers of people move about. We support this initiative at raising the importance of electrical cables and wiring.”
Stuart Dover, general manager of AEI Cables, said: “We want to help our supply chain understand the significance of this important new legislation and how they can meet the requirements in the interests of safety. We are happy to provide guidance and support on these issues as demonstrating competence is also a requirement.”
AEI Cables’ Firetec Enhanced cabling has been approved and certified by LPCB to BS8519 (Annex B), Category 3 Control in addition to Category 2 Control.The BS Code of Practice under BS8519 contains six categories of cables, three for power cables and three for control cables each covering survival times of 30, 60 or 120 minutes.
For more information see the AEI Cables website, tel 0191 410 3111 or email sales@ aeicables.co.uk.
Instaspark launches specialist commercial electrical brand, Orbem, following national expansion
Electrical services provider, Instaspark, has announced the launch of Orbem, a specialist electrical firm servicing the commercial sector.
The news follows a year of unprecedented growth for Instaspark, reaching a turnover of over circa £1.6million in 2023, driving geographical expansion across the UK, and securing multiple lucrative contracts including Co-Op, Haribo and True Learning Partnership. Directors Brandon Rowlands, Chris Stott, and Rob Stone announced the launch of Orbem to further expand the firm’s commercial offering.
Orbem will specialise in a wide range of electrical solutions, including electrical fit-
out projects across all major industries, LED lighting upgrades, commercial EV charging and renewable energy solutions.
Part of the Instaloft Group, which turned over in excess of £22 Million in 2023 and aim to achieve over £30m in 2024, Orbem
will continue the brand’s commitment to excellence in their values; quality, innovation and reliability, creating tailor-made electrical solutions and cultivating long-term commercial partnerships.
Speaking on the launch of Orbem, Director Brandon Rowlands said: “We are delighted to bring Orbem to the market, and we view it as a massive step towards our goal of changing the face of electrical contracting. Borne from our success at Instaspark, we identified the need for a dedicated commercial brand and we couldn’t be more proud of making that dream a reality.”
For more info, visit:orbem-electrical.co.uk
Stiebel Eltron expands global operations to drive greener homes across Ireland
Stiebel Eltron opened its new regional headquarters in Dublin this month which will serve all regions across the country.
With global headquarters based in Germany and 26 existing sales operations around the world, the Dublin location will see Stiebel Eltron strengthen its reach with the delivery of a range of heat pumps, electric hot water, space heating and ventilation products across Ireland.
As the Government of Ireland looks to develop Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) by 2025 as part of its climate action plan, Stiebel Eltron will look to drive sustainable energy solutions across the country to support this.
Located at Blanchardstown, the Dublin office holds five employees from the first day who will be on hand to support customers with their expertise in implementing renewable energy technology in homes across the country.
The Ireland headquarters opens with a new showroom, fitted out with the latest Stiebel Eltron sustainable heating products, innovations, and technologies.
Elta sets roadmap for international expansion
Additionally, the HQ features a training centre which will see experienced and prospective renewable energy technicians supported from day one, offering them comprehensive training to develop a raft of qualified, experienced engineers who will serve the area.
The company’s move into the Irish market forms part of its commitment to growing every aspect of the business, from developing its training facilities and workforce further, to investing in new renewable energy technologies and products.
For more info, visit: stiebel-eltron.co.uk
Elta celebrates 50 years in business and accelerates its agenda to move the dial on indoor air quality.
Major investment will be made into the company’s manufacturing capabilities this year and as of this month, the business previously known as Elta Fans will be repositioned as Elta. This is a poignant branding transition for the company as it signifies an identity that better represents the company’s full capability beyond fan manufacturing.
As well as its industry leading fan technology, Elta will continue to invest in its air handling units, noise control equipment and controls to provide markets with holistic solutions that futureproof against the demanding challenges of modern society. Elta’s engineering expertise and bespoke manufacturing approach are both fundamental to this and will therefore see a significant investment into its factories which will help meet increased demand for full system specifications.
Sister companies, Fantech Ventilation in Ireland and Duct Products in Northern Ireland will also be unified under the Elta brand to create a cohesive presence across the industry and geographically.
‘Air Movement, Air Quality’ is the company’s new mantra which will encapsulate its vision, mission and comprehensive range of solutions.
For more information, visit www.eltauk.com
Record year for Welsh heat pumps and solar panels
Last year saw more than double the amount of certified renewable installations in Wales than the previous year, bringing the total number of Welsh homes and businesses with renewable energy to over 100,000. 2023 was also the first year that installations rose above 20,000, according to the MCS database of certified installations.
Solar panels made up the majority of the new renewable energy, with 14,730 MCS-certified installations across Wales. This represents a twelve-year high and is the highest level since Feed-In Tarriff grants were cut in 2011.
But the largest increase was in the heat pump sector, with a 147 per cent increase in certified installations between 2022 and 2023. Experts at the MCS Foundation, which compiled the figures, said that Government grants introduced in 2022 have helped drive the rise in uptake. Households can now get £7,500 off the cost of a heat pump under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, with applications for the grants rising rapidly.
Grants available for homeowners via the Welsh Government’s Nest scheme have also helped with the rollout of renewables. The Nest scheme is coming to an end, and is due to be replaced by a new scheme with a greater focus on low carbon technologies for the home.
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A chat with McNally and Thompson
Fred Hood talks to Lisa Peake about his role at McNally and Thompson and discusses the company’s recent success at the Electrical Industry Awards 2023
Tell me more about your role at McNally and Thompson...
Reporting to the parent company, I am responsible for over 75 employees. With a turnover of £18m, it is a busy office and there is never a dull moment. We have a great team that work well together to deliver some outstanding projects. My main role is in preconstruction and business development, overseeing both the Estimating and the Operations Department, which consists of over 60 site employees, as well as specialist sub-contractors.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I am lucky to work with some of the best people in the industry and I especially enjoy the variety of the projects that we carry out.
How has the industry changed since you entered?
Every document is now electronic which
is fantastic for the speed of response, but it also means that people expect more from you and sooner. Years ago, responding to changes in design was much more time consuming, but the ease at which it is done nowadays can be quite staggering at times.
Technology in our industry has also moved on with LED lighting now being the norm. There is now so much more to consider, especially with the rise in demand of projects such as EV, Solar PV, ASHP Technology etc.
Lately the new building safety act is another huge change that has amended the way we all operate.
How is McNally and Thompson keeping up with these changes?
We constantly review our operations and our training matrix to ensure the workforce is fully up to speed with the industry’s needs. Our technical departments are constantly upskilling
with training courses on Solar PV, EV, Building Safety Act CPD’s, Building Services Degrees etc. to keep us at the forefront of what we do.
McNally and Thompson won Contractor of the Year at the Electrical Industry Awards in 2023, what do you think set you apart from the other contractors that entered?
First and foremost, we invest heavily in training. We currently have 15 apprentices or adult trainees within the business and our track record in training has meant we have been able to avoid the skill shortage. We have maintained steady growth in business, with a small but long standing client base.
How did it feel to win the Electrical Industry Award?
To be recognised by our industry peer’s is the ultimate accolade. The whole team feels like it is their award - it just means so much to us all. It is so rewarding to know that we are not only doing our best, but being recognised for it.
What would your advice be for others thinking of entering?
I would encourage anyone who feels they are doing something just that little bit different to the norm to take the time to enter. It is such a good feeling to be recognised for what you do.
What’s next for McNally and Thompson?
Next up for us is to maintain the strong relationships we have already, but also to build on them with one or two new customers. There has been a target set of hitting the £20M turnover mark, but not for vanity - it has to be with the right people and profitable.
The Electrical Industry Awards 2023 is sponsored by:
A circular solution:
How remanufactured lighting systems are saving energy, reducing costs, and boosting sustainability. By Richard Wharrad, head of SSV for In House Manufacturing at Tamlite Lighting
Remanufactured lighting is rapidly gaining traction as a cost-effective way for buildings to save energy and achieving multiple sustainability goals.
Remanufacturing a lighting system can result in better-than-new energy efficiency performance for up to 40 per cent less cost than buying in a brand-new system. This helps to reduce the cost of retrofitting existing buildings to improve their energy performance and overall sustainability. Although the process is still not widely recognised, remanufacturing represents a potential, value-adding solution for both energy managers and facilities to consider in response to ever-tightening energy efficiency regulations. But what exactly does remanufacturing mean? What can remanufactured lighting offer to buildings’ energy efficiency and overall sustainability? And why is remanufacturing increasingly considered so crucial to a more circular, sustainable economy?
The challenge: Reducing buildings’ operational carbon emissions
According to the World Green Building Council (WGBC), 39 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions are attributable to buildings and construction; 28 per cent of that total is attributable to operational emissions, from the energy needed to cool and power them. Around 80 per cent of the buildings that will be occupied in 2050 have already been built (WGBC).
Reducing the operational carbon emissions of existing buildings must necessarily play a key role in meeting net zero targets. And the pressure to decarbonise building stock, and improve buildings’ overall sustainability credential, is growing. If the UK and EU are to meet their shared climate targets of carbon emissions 55 per cent below 1990 levels by 2030, and net zero by 2050, greenhouse gas pollution levels must be cut three times more quickly than over the past decade (European Commission: ‘Delivering the Green Deal’).
More broadly, both the UK and Europe are committed to developing more circular model of economic growth. In contrast to the ‘take-make-waste’ linear model, a circular economy is regenerative by design and aims to gradually decouple growth from the consumption of finite resources.
Where does remanufacturing fit into sustainability?
Remanufacture has a specific definition and is distinct from recycling, reuse, and repair. According to the British Standards Institution (2019) remanufacture is: ‘The process of returning a used product to at least the original equipment manufacturer’s performance specifications from a customer perspective and giving the resultant product a warranty at least equal to that of a newly manufactured equivalent.’
Remanufacturing is widely regarded as a key strategy to achieving a more circular economy. This is because the process tends to add value to complex products – like lighting - that already possess significant embedded material, energy, and labour resources. Often, in the case of lighting,
remanufacturing involves updating a traditional lighting system into one that exploits LED technology for significant energy efficiency gains. Remanufactured systems also create considerably less waste and reduce the need for recycling.
Multiple benefits of remanufactured lighting
In recent years, LED technology has revolutionised the energy efficiency of lighting systems, helping to create more sustainable buildings. LED systems use up to 90 per cent less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, according to the Energy Saving Trust. However, while new build buildings in the UK are almost certain to incorporate LED systems, many existing buildings still use older and less efficient systems. Remanufactured lighting systems represent a cost-effective way to improve existing buildings’ sustainability because they tend to be cheaper than buying in a new system yet deliver ‘good as new’ performance. Moreover, a remanufactured system results in less waste to landfill, and a product with
a lower embodied carbon compared to new products, helping to reduce the enduser’s carbon footprint. This supports the trend towards Whole Life Carbon (WLC) assessment for buildings, which considers all their products and systems, including lighting. Remanufactured lights also support multiple Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) goals and a reduction in environmental impacts across supply chains. They lead to better building energy efficiency while improving occupier wellbeing thanks to LED’s better quality, and more easily controlled, illumination levels as compared to standard lighting systems. Furthermore, quality remanufactured lighting systems will be certified as circular products, helping to prove end users’ sustainability claims.
Creating a remanufactured lighting system
The remanufacturing process has been made more efficient in recent years thanks to a campaign led by global lighting-industry consortium Zhaga to increase the use of standardised interfaces and components for LED luminaire systems. Leading light
manufacturers now support the use of Zhaga componentry in their products.
While Zhaga componentry supports remanufacturing, the detail of every remanufactured lighting system is casespecific though each broadly follows a similar process. The existing light fitting is disassembled, cleaned and the components assessed for their manufacturability. It is then refitted with the latest LED systems, with attention given to future repair and maintenance requirements.
Quality remanufactured lighting products come with a full warranty, equal to that of newly manufactured ones. The product should also be designed to align with the new British Standard BS 8887-220 Design for Manufacture, Assembly, Disassembly, and End-of-Life Processing (MADE). In addition, testing and validation processes will ensure UK Conformity Assessment (UKCA) marking and compliance with regulations.
Remanufactured products should also carry certification of their circularity. For example, the TM66 Assured Product Verification Scheme is an initiative developed and fulfilled by the LIA (Lighting Industry Association) and endorsed by CIBSE. It allows lighting manufacturers to have their circularity claims independently verified.
The ‘right to repair’
In addition to promoting remanufactured lighting systems, leading lighting manufacturers are committed to developing sustainable and energy efficient products that can readily be serviced, supporting customer’s ‘right to repair.’ For example, Tamlite’s award-winning CIRCA luminaire for the retail sector was specially designed for ease of maintenance.
Delivering a more sustainable future
Stay ahead of the curve in the everevolving world of lighting with Tamlite’s complimentary CPDs, including a CIBSE approved module on the Circular Economy in Lighting. As one of the UK’s leading lighting manufacturers, Tamlite are passionate about sharing their years of knowledge and guiding you towards best practices.
Remanufacturing is an area in which we can expect to see considerable innovation, including an increased design focus on installation that supports future retrofit needs. By investing in this innovation, and constantly pushing for smarter and more sustainable solutions, lighting manufacturers can support the wider built environment to progress towards a more sustainable future. Tamlite is currently creating a White Paper that explores the crucial role that remanufacturing is set to play in delivering that future.
For updates, please visit our website: tamlite.co.uk
Protect your tools and livelihood
Steve Holland, co-founder at ARMD, explains the techniques tool thieves use to get into vans and how to best protect precious power tools and equipment
UK businesses reported £3.5 billion worth of stolen equipment last year and more than a third of van drivers fell victim to thefts, according to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The manufacturer found that almost fifty per cent of van drivers keep more than £2,150 worth of tools in their vans overnight. This means that UK tradespeople are risking up to £5 billion in lost equipment.
London in particular, is badly affected. Metropolitan Police data revealed that in 2021 and 2022, thefts from vehicles made up a third of all tool thefts in London, impacting builders the most, closely followed by electricians and engineers. But while London hit the top of the list with 47 per cent of van drivers suffering from tool or equipment theft, other regions weren’t far behind: Scotland came in at 45 per cent, the North West at 41 per cent and in the North East, 40 per cent of van drivers had experienced tool theft.
Some statistics predict that by 2030, van theft could nearly double to around 20,531 per year, with an estimated 33 vans being stolen per day in 2022, up from 12 vans per day in 2015. Given these statistics, it’s crucial for tradespeople to take proactive measures to secure their tools and vehicles. ARMD, the anti-tool theft specialist, believes traditional van alarms may not be up to the job of keeping vehicles, and the tools inside them, safe.
The methods used by thieves to gain access to vans have evolved over time, becoming more sophisticated and challenging to prevent. Understanding these methods is crucial for tradespeople to safeguard their tools and livelihood. To show the scale of the problem, ARMD takes a look at how thieves are gaining entry to commercial vehicles and their contents:
1. Peel ’n’ steal
Using sheer brute-force, thieves physically peel back the side doors of van. This technique involves applying force to the door or window to bend or break it open. It’s a quick method that can also be surprisingly quiet, making it less likely to attract attention.
2. Keyless entry hacks:
The advent of keyless entry systems was seen as a step forward in vehicle security. But thieves have found ways to exploit these systems using electronic devices. These devices can intercept the signal from the key fob and replicate it to unlock the van without any physical key. This
method is particularly concerning because it leaves no signs of forced entry, making it difficult for victims to prove the theft to insurance companies.
3. Tampering with locks:
Another common method is the manipulation or breaking of the van’s locks. Thieves may use various tools to pick locks but more often than not they resort to drilling them out.
4. Breaking windows:
Thieves may also simply break the van’s windows to gain access. This method is noisy and conspicuous, so it’s often used as a last resort or in areas where the thief feels confident they won’t be disturbed.
5. Cutting through the van:
In some cases, especially with high-value targets, thieves might cut through the van’s body to access the locking mechanism and simply open the door to the cargo area. This requires tools like saws or angle grinders. Given these varied and sophisticated methods of theft, it’s clear why traditional van alarms might not be sufficient. Vehicle alarm sirens are largely ignored by both passer-by and the thieves themselves. They are also usually only triggered if the thief breaks into the cab, when the vast majority of the time the tools are in the back of the van.
In contrast, a system like ARMD Guard Smart Van Alarm offers a more comprehensive solution. It’s a plug-and-play wire free sensor so is easy to install and employs advanced
technology to detect unusual activities or movements in the back of the van, potentially alerting the owner before the theft occurs. If they manage to unplug the device it triggers a phone call to the owner and if they try and take the whole van it’s built in GPS tracks it.
The ARMD GUARD goes further than traditional van alarms and is a great deterrent for all these threats. As a tradesperson, you don’t have to be at the mercy of thieves. You can take straightforward, simple action to ensure you are protected and can rest easy both on and off the job.
For more information about ARMD visit the website at https://www.armd.uk/
Free online heat pump training
Stiebel Eltron is offering Installer and stakeholder training on the basic concepts of heating and cooling with heat pumps. Delivered through on demand video sessions, the Heat Pump Pass comprises approximately
five hours of on-demand video training given in 26 segments of a few minutes each.
This high quality course is delivered by Stiebel Eltron’s expert global training team, including the UK’s John Felgate.
Celebrating its 100 year anniversary this year, the company is running the course as part of its plan to make heat pumps easier than ever for consumers and installers. “Our HPeasy concept means we are at your side as our installer partner. Not only with efficient products, but also with excellent service and resources tailored to your individual needs. All things that bear witness to over 45 years of heat pump expertise,” says Mark McManus, managing director at Stiebel Eltron.
This is a basic course for those who need a basic technical understanding of how heat pumps work and some key considerations for installation. It would be ideal for:
• Heating engineers wishing to transition from boiler installation to heat pumps
• Trainee heating engineers
• Existing heat pump engineers wishing to deepen their knowledge of different heat pump technologies and/or Stiebel Eltron products
For more information and to sign up today, visit: www.stiebel-eltron.co.uk/etimes
Practical advice: Five ways to improve workforce compliance
With the construction industry forecast to rise to revenues of £404.13bn in 2024, it is a sector poised for substantial growth. But this upsurge is not without its hurdles. Contractors, both large and small, may be gearing up to grow their teams, but navigating workforce compliance can be a daunting shadow over this potential growth.
Effective workforce management involves a delicate balance of legal compliance, operational efficiency, employee satisfaction and financial responsibility, which can prove challenging for many businesses. With business owners often consumed by the daily grind, any tool or service that can alleviate the burden of administrative tasks and guarantee compliance is not just helpful, but a game-changer. It frees up precious time and energy, allowing them to focus on growth and innovation.
“Many contractors just don’t understand the strict legislation they have to comply with, nor the processes or systems they ideally have to have in place to protect themselves and their workforce,” explains Katie Hunston, Indigo Group’s regional sales director.
“I talk with our customers on a daily basis – which include contractors of all sizes – and it really is all about educating them on what they need to be doing to protect their business. Practical advice is so valuable to all businesses in our sector, whether the owner is up on a roof doing the job, or behind a desk managing thousands of workers across large projects.”
The good news is that technology is on hand to help. The MyIndigo platform has been launched to simplify and streamline the process of managing a compliant workforce. With a focus on efficiency, transparency and ease of use, MyIndigo offers a comprehensive solution for businesses of all sizes. Indigo Group has put together a simple, practical guide that highlights how technology and expert knowledge can combine to help hard working contractors manage workforce compliance:
1. Make it easy from the start
Simplify the registration and onboarding process for contractors and workers. A dedicated team ensures a smooth transition to the MyIndigo platform, allowing you to stay updated, access registration profiles, verify right-to-work details and check compliance status. Indigo partners with a certified DIAFT
Understanding IR35 regulations can be complex, but help is at hand. The platform features a comprehensive IR35 assessment and management module. A team of experts is also available to guide you through the intricacies of IR35.
(Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework) provider to deliver a secure, streamlined and convenient onboarding experience.
2.
Nail IR35 compliance
Understanding IR35 regulations can be complex, but help is at hand. The platform features a comprehensive IR35 assessment and management module. A team of experts is also available to guide you through the intricacies of IR35. They can let you know if you need to comply with IR35 rules and provide support and solutions if you do, ensuring peace of mind.
3. Streamline invoicing
Centralise your invoices and enhance visibility. MyIndigo’s extensive search and filter functions make it easy to review payment histories while the yearly summary dashboard includes your company’s credit report, provided by approved partner, Creditsafe.
4. Automate alerts
Stay on top of compliance with automated in-system messages and alerts. You can relax, knowing that you’ll be promptly notified when compliance issues arise. Additionally, notifications from Indigo will alert you when contract remittance and payment notices have been accepted, ensuring seamless communication.
5. Empower Your workforce Technology isn’t just for employers; it should also benefit contractors and workers.
The MyIndigo platform includes a dedicated contractor hub where they can access remittances, payslips, end-of-year statements and valuable industry guides while up-to-date self-employed workers rights and advice is easily accessible through the company’s various industry partners. The platform also offers subcontractors rewards and benefits, including discounts of up to 55 per cent at over 130 top UK retailers and attractions including B&M, Costa, Just Eat and Sky Store.
Indigo can also take care of insurance. The company can deal with Public Liability and Personal Site Insurance, so as a contractor, you won’t have to worry about the cost of accidents on site.
For more information on the MyIndigo workforce management platform visit: www. indigogroupservices.com/my-indigo
The evolution of FM in 2024
The last few years have seen significant changes in legislation and regulations within the facilities management space such as the Fire Safety Act 2021, The Building Safety Act 2022 and the Fire Safety Regulations (England) 2022, to name a few. These changes in the industry have forced a shift in priorities and duties for those working in facility management in 2024 and beyond.
Paul Bullard, product director at SFG20, the industry standard for building maintenance, has shared his insights regarding how the facilities management industry will continue to evolve throughout the next year and the changes they believe will be particularly impactful for those working in the industry.
1. Building compliance in the spotlight
With the constant evolution of legislations and regulations within FM, uncertainty of what tasks should be completed, how often and by whom is on the rise. 2024 will, therefore, continue to see a greater spotlight placed on proof of compliance. The industry has faced a barrage of new legislation and regulation in recent years, so it’s no surprise that compliance has risen to the top of many priority lists
The government has also ensured it will increase the number of buildings that fall within the scope of the Building Safety Act. This will make providing a thorough, digital trail of maintenance tasks a requirement for many more. Many large developers will need to commit to remedying defects in facility constructions dating back 30 years.
Building owners, property managers and contractors will need to ensure that statutory maintenance works are being carried out, that the information is up-to-date and that evidence can be provided.
2. Competence is crucial
Ensuring that maintenance tasks are being undertaken not only at the right time but also by the right person for the job is a high priority for facility managers this year. This becomes a particular concern when a facility outsources a large proportion of its maintenance. Despite its cost-effective potential and collaboration with industry specialists, outsourcing maintenance tasks makes it more difficult for facility owners to have both visibility and control over the standard to which tasks are completed.
Although outsourced maintenance lands in the hands of industry-leading specialists, greater monitoring will be required to ensure that the quality of work will be inline with the expectations of facility owners.
3. Enhanced connectivity
Property managers are under the strain of collaborating with multiple stakeholders,
from building owners to facility management consultants and engineers, who all play a crucial role in the safe and legal maintenance of a facility. Managing extensive workforces, with a mix of internal and external resources, tends to make streamlined collaboration much trickier. In particular, ensuring the right people receive the necessary information at the right time becomes a challenge.
In a recent poll conducted by the experts at SFG20, 66 per cent of asset owners and property managers revealed that keeping a golden thread of information about a facility up to date has been a main concern for their business. This shows that many current FM systems are not aligning in a way that helps facilitate efficient, collaborative working. Developing and providing software solutions that enable teams to share data and work efficiently will continue to characterise industry changes in the near future.
4. AI technology dominance
AI in the FM industry offers the potential to enhance rather than replace human roles, unlocking new opportunities and insights. The new technologies available facilitate businesses to work with much larger datasets for predictive maintenance, providing a time-efficient and proactive approach to facility management. Businesses are still under pressure to develop the necessary skills and teams to successfully work alongside AI for predictive maintenance, data analysis and a cost-effective allocation of FM budgets. With the current focus on ensuring compliance, facility managers will be faced with the challenge of reducing costs, an obstacle
that effective use of AI could help eliminate. 2024 has already seen a huge push to overcome these challenges and take full advantage of AI assistance within the management of facilities. This will likely continue by the means of thorough training and development opportunities for all those involved in the facility management process, to best integrate new AI technologies into business strategies.
5. Sustainability interventions at the forefront
The landscape of the UK’s built environment is on the brink of a profound transformation. The march toward carbon neutrality is poised to accelerate, propelled by technological strides, evolving governmental policies and heightened public climate awareness.
The government’s Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution and Net Zero Strategy chart a course for this transition, setting out strategies for bolstering energy efficiency, championing low-carbon heating solutions and encouraging the construction of energyefficient new homes.
As we look towards the future, the need for sustainable facility maintenance practices will only grow. As the global urban population continues to expand rapidly, construction and, ultimately, carbon emissions will follow suit. To mitigate this, we must implement ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings through sustainable maintenance and ensuring that new buildings incorporate this into their initial design.
PROJECTS & INSTALLATIONS
SANGAMO PROVIDES THERMOSTAT SOLUTION FOR STUDENT ACCOMMODATION
The Pinnacles is one of Sheffield’s leading student properties with a mix of one, two, three, four, and five-bedroom apartments catering for both UK and international students The large, purpose-built student accommodation overlooking Victoria Quays is just a 10 minute walk from City Campus and the train station.
As the required ongoing programme of maintenance was embarked upon, a key element was to overcome the problems associated with the existing heating control provision. Issues with students operating the system had not only led to an increase in complaints and maintenance requests but had resulted in an increase in energy consumption due to the heating controls being incorrectly operated.
The Sangamo Choice Plus Tamperproof Electronic Room Thermostat from ESP was specified as the solution to overcome the issues identified. To date more than 200 of the thermostats in the white finish have been installed in the communal hallways of each of the flats, and they will continue to be installed on a rolling basis as the maintenance programme is carried out.
Commenting on the project, Steven Moore, operations director at South Street Asset Management said: “The project has been superb from our point of view. The Sangamo team attended site and made recommendations to move us away from the historic thermostats. We were looking for a product that would enable us, as landlords, to optimise the heating within the student apartments and remove the confusion our students found in operating the old 6 zone system. The Sangamo tamperproof thermostats have enabled us to do this and have dramatically reduced the complaints and maintenance requests being experienced on site.”
The Choice Plus electronic room controls are concealed by a discreet tamperproof cover. The set point is adjusted and the cover is fitted to provide protection against accidental or purposeful incorrect operation. For more information, visit: www.sangamo.co.uk and www.espuk.com
PUB CHAIN CUTS CARBON WITH LARGEST VO ROLLOUT IN UK HISTORY
Voltage optimisation (VO) specialist Powerdown220 has completed the UK’s largest ever VO rollout for pub and restaurant chain, Mitchells & Butlers. The year-long project involved VO installations at over 1,100 sites and is already delivering significant energy savings.
Mitchells & Butlers decided to invest in VO to lower its energy bills and reduce its carbon footprint. The large pub and restaurant chain, which owns popular brands like Harvester and Toby Carvery, chose VO specialist Powerdown220 for the project.
The average UK voltage supply is 242 volts, but most equipment is designed to work optimally at 220 volts. VO is a technology that lowers incoming voltage from the National Grid, and has proven effective at delivering cost savings for businesses who are large consumers of electricity.
After an extensive survey of Mitchells & Butlers estate, 1,125 sites were identified as suitable for VO, making this the largest multi-site project of its kind ever attempted
in the UK. Beginning with just five machines per week, at the peak of the project up to sixty machines were being installed every week.
‘‘I didn’t realise beforehand that this would be the biggest project of its kind in the UK, but that fact puts it all into perspective,’’ reflected Dale Fenton, energy manager at Mitchells & Butlers.
The company was looking to invest in a technology that would deliver cost savings and improve its sustainability and found VO to be a technology that ‘‘ticked both boxes.’’
The unprecedented scale of the project meant unique challenges. Ensuring sufficient resources were available and manufacturing output was maintained required careful forward planning. Powerdown220 also drew up on its relationship with Ashcrofts, which carried out 40 per cent of the installations.
‘‘We are enormously proud to have completed a project of this scale and delighted that Mitchells & Butlers placed their trust in us,’’ commented James Goody, director at Powerdown220. ‘‘The experience of successfully completing this rollout in such a short period of time has also provided unique opportunities for learning, which we can now carry forward.’’
Powerdown220 provides VO to businesses across the UK. To quickly discover if your company can benefit from VO, use the savings calculator on powerdown220.com
INDUSTVILLE SUPPLIES COASTLANDS
Winner of the WhatHouse Best Apartment Scheme of the Year, the Coastlands project by Wedgewood Homes in Hythe, Kent, stands out for its stunning features. Nestled on the coastal cliffs, these eight luxury apartments boast breathtaking sea views, glass-fronted balconies, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the interiors in natural light, creating an airy ambiance.
The careful selection of lighting fixtures include a variety of carefully curated pieces: from the Knurled Edison Wall Lights and elegant Knurled Tinted Glass Globe and Cone Pendant Lights to the Sleek Edison Wall Lights and the Brooklyn Tinted Glass Pendants - all elegantly handblown in smoke grey glass.These fixtures work harmoniously together, enhancing the contemporary feel of the space while providing functional illumination.
Each lighting element contributes to the overall aesthetic, creating a cohesive and modern design that perfectly complements the upscale living experience offered by Coastlands.
MANSION TO BE TRANSFORMED INTO CARBON NEUTRAL VENUE
AVictorian mansion in Powys is being transformed into a sustainable events venue using a combination of renewable and low carbon technologies, including an innovative new Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) boiler working alongside a highly efficient Megaflo 1,000 litre cylinder. It’s believed to be the first heating solution of its kind fitted into a UK events venue.
Work is underway at Bronllys Hall, parts of which date back to the 18th and 16th centuries, will create 40 ensuite bedrooms and various entertainment areas – a lot of space to heat. It was important to find a boiler solution that was suitable for the job, so Hughes Architects, the conservation architecture specialists who are managing the project, teamed up with Suffolkbased Hounsfield Boilers to tackle the challenge. The systems integrators for Bronllys Hall, working with a local plumbing company, have connected Hounsfield’s highly efficient UK HVO boiler technology into a thermal storage system provided by Baxi, another UK company. Manufactured in the UK, the Megaflo 1,000 litre cylinder is highly insulated to achieve low heat losses, constructed of duplex stainless steel for longevity, and maintenance-free with no sacrificial anodes.
Richard Whittington, technical sales manager at Baxi, said: “The very low heat losses of our Megaflo hot water cylinders, their renowned quality and reduced carbon footprint dovetail perfectly with the carbon neutral aims of this project as well as meeting the requirements for a long-term low-maintenance solution. We are extremely proud to be playing a part in this ground-breaking sustainable events venue which exemplifies UK innovation at its best.”
The major renovation project aims to transform the deteriorated 18th-century structure, which retains elements from the 16th century, into a five-star events venue that operates sustainably and uses only renewable energy sources. The team aims to complete the first stage of Bronllys Hall’s transformation into a carbon-neutral event venue by the end of 2024, setting new precedent for event venues, hotels and businesses. For more information visit: heatraesadia.com
CASTLE GREEN HOMES CHOOSES VENT-AXIA’S LO-CARBON SOLUTION
Housebuilder Castle Green Homes has selected Vent-Axia’s decentralised mechanical extract ventilation (dMEV) units to be installed in its homes as its chosen solution to meet the amended Part F (Means of Ventilation) and Part L (Conservation of Fuel & Power) of the Building Regulations. Vent-Axia is supplying its highly efficient Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C units to be installed in 500 homes a year, across North Wales and the North West of England. The aim is to ensure homes have good indoor air quality to help protect homeowners’ health and meet the new airflow rates set out in Part F.
For New Build residential homes, ventilation rates increased in the new Part F to support the health of residents with a move to more advanced ventilation solutions, such as Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) and Continuous Mechanical Extract Ventilation, such as dMEV, instead of traditional Intermittent Extract Ventilation (now referred to as Natural Ventilation throughout the document). Natural Ventilation is now only suitable for dwellings
with a design air permeability higher than 5 m3/(m2·h) meaning many new build dwellings are out of scope of this technology. With the increased airtightness of buildings, and increased minimum whole dwelling ventilation rates for continuous mechanical extract units, higher performing options are needed, making Vent-Axia’s Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C unit the ideal option. The Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C, is a highly efficient dMEV unit. Designed for kitchen, utility, bathroom and cloakroom applications, the Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C achieves Building Regulations with the quietest sound levels, the lowest number of installed fans required and the most efficient fans on the market. Developed for housebuilders, it is tested to the new SAP 10 performance requirement and listed in the PCDB with its exceedingly low Specific Fan Power (SFP) values as impressively low as 0.08 w/l/s and provides near silent operation independently tested as low as 7.4 dB(A).
For further information on all products and services offered by Vent-Axia telephone +44 (0)344 856 0590 or visit www.vent-axia.com.
IRONCLAD BS 8629 COMPLIANCE FOR SHEFFIELD DEVELOPMENT
Advanced has supplied its BS 8629-compliant EvacGo evacuation alert system to new build residential development, The Ironworks, in Sheffield.
Built on the site of the former Queens Hotel on Scotland Street in central Sheffield, the 11-storey building comprises 228 one and two-bedroom furnished apartments designed to offer affordable, high-quality rental accommodation. The development also includes shared spaces such as a rooftop garden, communal lounge and workstations, as well as a bookable meeting area that doubles as a cinema room.
In addition to the evacuation alert system, The Ironworks also benefits from robust fire protection of its landlord areas thanks to the installation of Advanced’s flagship MxPro 5 fire panel. Fire and security service provider WPS Fire & Security installed both systems and were involved in the project from the design stage through to commissioning.
The Ironworks forms part of the first wave of high-rise construction to be completed since evacuation alert systems became mandatory in new residential buildings over 18m in England and Wales in December 2022. The amendments to Approved Document B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations also stipulated that these systems adhere to BS 8629 – the code of practice outlining how evacuation alert systems should be designed, installed, commissioned and maintained. This should give residents in buildings like The Ironworks reassurance that if they need to leave the building in a fire, the instruction will be communicated clearly and safely.
Each EvacGo panel is housed inside a STS 205 security-rated enclosure with patented BS EN 1303-compliant lock and key mechanism for exclusive access by the fire and rescue service –ensuring minimal risk of unauthorised use and full compliance with BS 8629. At The Ironworks, the main panel is supported by a sub-panel, with one sounder in each of the 228 apartments to alert residents in an evacuation scenario.
For further information on Advanced: Tel: 0345 894 7000 or visit: www.advancedco.com
Switched On
Net Zero Lighting 2024: Programme unveiled
An exciting programme featuring leading experts in lighting and sustainability has been unveiled for the inaugural Net Zero Lighting Conference 24. Organised by a unique partnership of The LIA and Recolight, the pivotal event is designed to help lighting manufacturers on their net zero journey. It takes place on Thursday, May 2 at 15 Hatfields, London.
The conference places emphasis on the practical steps that lighting manufacturers can take to reduce the carbon emissions of all parts of their operations to contribute to the low carbon economy.
“This event is coming at a critical time for the industry,” said the event chair, Ray Molony. “The lighting community stands ready and willing to play its part in addressing the climate crisis and we hope this gathering of experts and sharing of information will be a major springboard on our collective journey.”
The programme addresses seven vital areas: Strategy; Metrics and Measurement; Materials; Energy; Packaging; Transport; and Best Practice.
The day ends with a panel discussion addressing “Commercial Imperative or Environmental Responsibility?”
Commenting on the programme, LIA CEO, Ayça Donaghy said: “I am delighted that so many leading experts in this field are willing to share their knowledge and prowess with us all. It is already clear that the event will be filled with essential information to help lighting companies as they collectively work towards net zero.”
And Nigel Harvey, Recolight CEO, added “Achieving net zero is without doubt challenging, with input and change needed right across an organization. The broad range of presentations will address many of the challenges, giving delegates the tools they need to decarbonise their operations.”
The early bird booking rate ends on Thursday, February 29. Read more and register to attend at: https://www.thelia.org.uk/page/NetZeroConference
Lighting Design International calls for greater sustainability across lighting design projects
At a recent talk on Circularity in Lighting during the Surface Design Show, LDI’s Associate, Arianna Ghezzi spoke alongside Nigel Harvey, Recolight; David Clements, FUTURE Designs; Gary Thornton, Nulty; and Colin Ball, BDP. The discussion looked at the benefits of stepping away from linear economy and adapting a circular economy which follows “reduce, reuse, and recycle” as a method of circularityrecycling being the very last resort.
The challenge remains there are too many occasions where Specifiers are brought into a project too late, for example in historic buildings when the original fittings have been stripped out. In these cases, it is important to ensure fittings can be reused in the future. Manufacturers also need to play a part and provide a duty of care by replacing elements of the fittings that need refreshing.
Other actions highlighted by Arianna that LDI have committed to include the
limited number of samples that the consultancy order. These fixtures have a one-time purpose and are rarely re-used after; by sharing them across the different teams and reducing the quantities ordered by having a consolidated library, this is helping to reduce wastage.
Also on the topic of waste, the panel looked at the opportunities to donate older fittings that are removed from one project, to charities or buildings with limited funding for renovations.
For more information on LDI, visit www. lightingdesigninternational.com.
Almost ten years after the original installation, Zumtobel and its sister brand Thorn, both lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group, completed an office retrofit of Southwark Council office’s lighting with energy and carbon emission reduction at the forefront. Southwark Council approached Zumtobel’s London Project Team, following a successful project at its HQ building in the infamous Tooley Street. Its mission was to upgrade the existing lighting to LED and provide energy savings, reduce carbon emissions, and luminaire failures while also delivering a minimal impact retrofit. Southwark Council also wanted to upgrade its lighting control system to enable them to connect to the building from a remote site to review performance and errors, reducing efforts in maintenance.
The retrofit office solution included LIGHT FIELDS III recessed and suspended luminaires with custom infill panels. LIGHT FIELDS III frameless elegance delivers uncompromising light quality to the working plane for office workers, while the LED upgrade works more efficiently helping to reduce the council’s energy consumption and in turn its carbon emissions.
The PANOS infinity downlight range, in various sizes (68, 200, and R100), offered a versatile family of luminaires for this project. Recessed variants light the corridors and bathrooms with outstanding quality, while the surface mounted format has been used in the offices and corridors. Further pendant versions grace the breakout areas, completing the family feel of the project.
Wall washing MIREL recessed luminaires illuminate the copy/post room walls and the lift lobbies, providing a direct replacement for the existing fluorescent luminaire. The stylish alternative to louvred fittings adds to the modern interior scheme. Additionally, COMSIGN emergency signage is used throughout the building to guide occupants to safety. The family range catered for ceiling recessed, surface and suspended applications. The stairwells are lit with Thorn Katona wall luminaires and the plant rooms with Thorn’s Aquaforce dust and moisture proof luminaires. The exterior scheme uses Thorn Piazza pathway luminaires to maximise efficiency and minimise light pollution.
The new luminaires consume a third of the power of the original scheme; coupled with a new control system with good occupancy control which is easy to adapt by the building manager, the efficiency of the lighting installation is greatly improved.
As a result of the success of the retrofit scheme, the Zumtobel Group has been awarded the lighting project for the next office upgrade.
For more information: visit: z.lighting/en/zumtobel/
THORNeco unveils new catalogue featuring exciting updates to Boris, Anna, and Julie!
THORNeco is thrilled to announce the release of its latest catalogue, showcasing its newest innovations! The updated product lineup includes upgrades to popular luminaires Boris, Anna, and Julie, offering even greater flexibility, efficiency, and ease of installation.
THORNeco Boris FLEX’s its Muscles! Experience the perfect blend of power and efficiency with the Boris High Bay luminaire. Now boasting improved efficiency of up to 162lm/W, Boris offers exceptional performance with low glare (<25 UGR) for enhanced comfort. The new FLEX feature makes adjusting the lumen output easier than ever, allowing on-site customisation to meet your lighting needs. Versatility Now Shines: Unveiling THORNeco Anna! Say goodbye to glare and hello to cosy efficiency with the improved Anna recessed LED panel. Featuring VARIO technology for customisable colour temperature and the
FLEX feature for effortless lumen adjustment, Anna offers exceptional quality and energy efficiency. Ideal for retrofit projects, Anna provides gentle, soft, and glare-free lighting, ensuring a comfortable and productive workspace.
THORNeco Julie - Clipless and Robust, Now with FLEX! Julie is the perfect solution for indoor applications, designed for reliability and easy installation. With a clipless diffuser for increased durability and the addition of FLEX for customisable lumen output, Julie offers energy savings of over 50 per cent compared to traditional lighting. Plus, with corridor and daylight functionality, Julie provides smart lighting solutions, reducing energy costs by only lighting spaces when needed. Discover these exciting updates and more by downloading the catalogue at: thorn-eco.com/ media/TE_Catalogue_UK_2024_Screen.pdf
Choose LiFe – NVC
NVC Lighting has launched its first ever integrated marketing communications campaign to promote the introduction of its new dedicated emergency lighting range. The ‘Choose LiFe’ campaign is designed to promote the extensive range of products in the LiFe range and all the key features and benefits to electrical contractors, wholesalers, commercial building owners and facilities managers. This includes digital, print and social media activity to drive awareness.
The new LiFe range from NVC Lighting includes NEBRASKA LiFe – a high performance, ICEL endorsed, IP65 emergency bulkhead; LEXINGTON LiFe – an ICEL endorsed emergency exit sign; ARLINGTON LiFe – a high quality drop-down blade sign; SENECA LiFe and SYRACUSE LiFe –both ICEL endorsed, non-maintained emergency downlights and KANSAS LiFe – an ICEL endorsed, IP65 non-maintained twinspot emergency light. The product range covers all the main categories of commercial lighting for indoor and outdoor use, including LED panels, downlights, surface and suspended lighting, road and landscape lighting, industrial and emergency lighting. To find out more about and for a chance to claim your limited edition ‘CHOOSE LiFe’ T-Shirt, visit nvc-choose-life.com.
COP28 and save the planet? What is everyone waiting for?
The UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai, better known as COP28, ended in December and as the curtain came down on the event its ‘headline statement’ was that the first international agreement was made to tackle climate change’s main driver – fossil fuels. For the first time, at its 28th gathering, it also held a ‘global stocktake’ whereby it assessed progress to tackle climate change around the world, while providing direction for countries’ next round of climate commitments.
Aside from the fossil fuels declaration, a second COP28 commitment centred on tripling the world’s renewable energy generation capacity to at least 11,000 gigawatts by 2030. Impressively, 120 countries signed up to this pledge, but it does have to be pointed out that it took 12 years from 2010 to 2022 to succeed in the last tripling of renewable capacity. This time countries have less than eight years.
COP28 also covered a wide range of climate issues including energy, transport and nature, whilst attempting to provide some direction for the next conference in 2025. There was said to be significant process towards making new commitments to reducing methane emission and creating more sustainable food systems and doing more to protect forestry for example.
However, it remained largely unclear how the countries – and indeed the world – are going to pay for such a comprehensive switch to this ‘massive clean energy transition’ which COP is committed to. This brings me to the summit’s third commitment – one destined to have implications for hydrocarbons and boosting energy efficiency. Referred to as the ‘first fuel’ in clean energy language, it essentially means making efficient and smart use of energy.
By Paul Jones, country director UK & Ireland, B.E.G
Governments are already encouraging the use of electric cars with tax breaks for example and also financial support with households looking to install heat pumps but there are common concerns for both.
Some drivers are cautious about electric cars because some only have limited battery range, the battery lifespan itself is a concern, the infrastructure – certainly in the UK - is not there yet and there may be long charging times. Campaigners still need to ‘win’ over some road users regarding the potential impact creating the lithium battery may have on the environment, but overall electric cars produce zero emissions and are recognised as being cheaper to maintain over the lifetime of the vehicle. They are also extremely quiet and can outperform petrolpowered vehicles.
The Government also faces some resistance to heat pumps due to the high upfront cost, the complexities involved in installing one, wider sustainability implications in some of the fluids used for heat transfer, while electricity usage will increase. However, on the whole heat pumps are considered one of the most energy efficient alternative to fuel, oil and electric systems, they improve air quality, should be extremely reliable, can produce warm air and water and are supported by Government grants.
As outlined – both electric cars and heat pumps face obstacles right now as it stands, mostly because the infrastructure itself is not there yet to support either of them. There are not enough electric vehicle charging points and not even enough installers to install the heat pumps (currently around 3,000 and experts
calculate the UK needs 27,000 by 2028 to hit current Government targets.
However, what seems to have been somewhat overlooked at COP28 is what Governments, organisations, businesses – and indeed private households – can do NOW to become more energy efficient to cut emissions, lower energy bills and bolster energy security. The agency commented that global efficiency rates could be vastly improved if countries followed the best practises from around the world.
I’ve spent a large proportion of my working career advocating lighting controls – and this is something that can be put in place today with no barriers. To get the very best out of an organisation or even a residential property’s lighting, it must be considered how the whole system is controlled.
Automated lighting control systems ensure that only the correct amount of light is used –and more importantly, when it is needed. This will not only reduce energy usage resulting in lower electricity bills, but it also means making a difference with a smaller carbon footprint. Limiting the energy consumption for each luminaire will also allow the light to last for longer with fewer replacements needed.
Lighting controls systems tend to use three types of sensor or controllers to make the lighting in a building. This includes timed controls to manage the on/off timing of the lights which are manually set but can be overridden at time, light sensors which measure the light through windows and then calculate how much light is required to support it and present the necessary levels of light and, lastly motion sensors that detect occupants entering or exiting a room, whereby the lighting control system can active and deactivate the light accordingly.
One of the most impressive benefits of a lighting control system is its ability to preconfigure lighting scenes for maximum energy efficiency. There are, of course, other benefits to such systems such as improving the safety and security of a building and enhanced convenience for end users – for example the lighting controls can be operated via a smartphone or tablet.
The next climate summit takes place at Azerbaijan for COP29 and is one that really needs to start delivering results, but we should be looking at the things we can also do NOW to improve boost energy efficiency – such as investigating how lighting control systems can benefit buildings - rather than just technologies that still have a little way to go yet.
How to successfully approach a lighting design brief
By Mara Rypacek Miller, managing director, Industville Ltd
Approaching a lighting design brief begins with understanding the client’s vision and the space’s functionality. It’s about immersing oneself in the project and identifying what the client wants to achieve. Once that’s clear, the next step is to explore and brainstorm creative, effective lighting solutions that harmonise with the architecture, interior design, and the intended ambiance of the space. It’s a blend of art and science, and requires a good dose of intuition and experience.
Top three tips for achieving the perfect lighting design.
Consider functionality:
First and foremost, lighting should serve its purpose. Whether it’s task lighting for a study area, mood lighting for a living room, or accent lighting to highlight artwork, always consider the function of each space and plan your lighting accordingly.
Layer your lighting:
Do not rely on a single light source for any room. Combine ambient, task,and accent lighting to create a balanced, flexible lighting scheme. Layering different types of lighting adds depth and character to your space, allowing you to alter the ambience depending on the time of day, mood, or activity.
Experiment with control:
Take advantage of dimmers, smart light bulbs, and lighting apps to gain greater control over your lighting. This allows you to adjust brightness levels, colour temperatures, and even colours, helping create the perfect atmosphere for any situation.
Do the key considerations vary depending on the location/space?
In residential settings, lighting design prioritises creating a warm, inviting atmosphere through a blend of ambient, task, and accent lighting, emphasising natural light. Conversely, commercial spaces, like offices or retail stores, opt for brighter, uniform lighting to enhance visibility and productivity, with accent lighting used in retail to spotlight products, for example. Urban lighting considers existing ambient light and may employ dramatic effects, while rural settings aim for subtle, complementary illumination to foster a peaceful environment.
When I think of a standout project, one that springs to mind is the refurbishment of a historic castle turned luxury hotel - Kilmartin Castle. This project was memorable because it presented a unique challenge: how to highlight and enhance the building’s historic features while also giving it a fresh, modern feel. The designer opted for a mixture of statement pieces and subtle accent lighting to draw attention to key architectural elements. Bespoke wall lights were used to add
a touch of grandeur to the bathrooms, while subtle uplighting was added to emphasise the beautiful, centuries-old stonework. The result was a harmonious blend of old and new, a lighting design that respected the past while welcoming the future.
Current lighting design trends
Current lighting trends emphasise the appreciation of craftsmanship and individuality, with a focus on handmade, artisanal products that reflect personal style.
Sustainability and smart technology are also playing significant roles in shaping trends. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, there’s a growing demand for sustainable lighting solutions – those made from recycled or easily recyclable materials. Metal and glass, two materials that can be endlessly recycled without losing quality, are particularly popular.
Smart technology, too, is becoming an integral part of modern lighting design. Whether it’s energy-saving automatic timers, adjustable colour temperatures, or appcontrolled settings, smart technology offers enhanced functionality and convenience, allowing users to customise their lighting to suit their mood, activities, and lifestyle.
In terms of colour and material trends, natural hues are in vogue. Think of tones that you would find in nature, like earthy browns, leafy greens, or soft blues, which can bring a sense of tranquillity and harmony to a space.
For more information on Industville Ltd, 020 7971 7871 www.industville.co.uk
How the industry should respond to the climate crisis
By Nigel Harvey, chief executive at Recolight
Last year was the hottest year since records began – and scientific evidence indicates that such records will continue to be broken until carbon emissions are brought under control. Nigel Harvey, chief executive of lighting WEEE compliance scheme Recolight, talks us through how lighting can be part of the solution.
The lighting industry has always been at the forefront of supplying products that are energy efficient. But energy efficiency is now largely a given. To be truly sustainable, lighting needs to go beyond energy efficiency, by addressing material efficiency and embodied carbon, as we all strive to achieve net zero.
Waste hierarchy
The waste industry operates a waste hierarchy that is still very applicable to lighting. It is effectively a simple aid to decision making that orders strategies according to their impact on the environment.
Reduce
At the top of the hierarchy is “Reduce.” That means not buying new lighting if the old lighting does the job – or only replacing lighting which is definitely inefficient and cannot be upgraded. And of course, using daylight wherever possible, both to reduce the number of lights that are installed, and to reduce the amount of time they are in use.
Reuse
There is a growing number of UK lighting companies that offer reuse or upgrade services to enhance the efficiency of installed lighting, for example by retrofitting LED light sources in fluorescent fittings. Industry estimates indicate that such upgrades typically have half the embodied carbon of a new product. Such upgrades can either be undertaken at the lighting company, or in situ at the customer’s premises. A new code of practice, BS8887, is being finalised, that will provide a model for such operations, and should provide greater confidence to end users that remanufacture can be undertaken reliably and consistently.
Recolight Reuse Hub
To facilitate reuse, Recolight has launched the Recolight Reuse Hub. This is a free to use lighting digital marketplace to facilitate the donation of new and used lighting products and
equipment. Currently, there are considerable volumes of new and used lighting products that are needlessly recycled when they could be reused. The Recolight Reuse Hub allows donors of such products to link up with potential recipients; companies that could use the donated products, and so avoid unnecessary recycling or disposal. Companies can register on the Recolight Reuse Hub at www.recolight. co.uk/reuse-hub/
Recycle
All too often, we assume that if old lighting is replaced with new lighting, we are meeting our environmental obligations if the waste fittings recycled. That thinking needs to change. Recycling is rightly near the bottom of the waste hierarchy. That is because recycling destroys much of the embodied carbon in a product, and simply recovers the raw materials. All the energy involved in the manufacture, supply and distribution of the products is lost. An extreme example is of mobile phones, where 85-95 per cent of their carbon emissions are in the production phase, and the value of the raw materials that can be recovered is typically less than one pound.
Two key events are taking place this year to support the lighting industry in taking action on net zero and the circular economy:
Net zero lighting conference May 2
Recolight and the Lighting Industry Association (LIA) are jointly hosting a conference that will focus on the practical steps lighting manufacturers can take to reduce the carbon emissions of all parts of their operations, to contribute to the low carbon economy. This event will provide guidance from a range of experts from both the lighting industry and other sectors to advise on best practice in moving towards net zero.
Circular Lighting Live Conference
October 9, London
Circular Lighting Live is a one day conference and exhibition for the lighting industry that focuses on all aspects of the circular economy, including cases studies on remanufacture and reuse, updates on new EU and UK standards and regulations, and the growing significance of life cycle assessments. It is intended for manufacturers, suppliers, specifiers, and end users.
LEDVANCE EVERLOOP
THE FUTURE IS CIRCULAR
A new era of sustainable light
At Light + Building 2024, held on 3 to 8 March 2024, LEDVANCE will showcase its latest intelligent and efficient lighting and energy solutions at booth D10 in Hall 3.0. Visitors to the stand will discover the full potential of light from classic professional LED solutions to a new photovoltaic range. The new LEDVANCE LOOP product lines will make their debut and are geared towards creating an effective circular economy to provide sustainable, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly LED luminaires and lamps.
Light + Building will provide the platform for LEDVANCE to introduce a new era of innovative possibilities to use light to its full potential, as a means of illumination and power generation. By offering intelligent energy solutions, solar technologies and modern lighting systems for better working and living environments, LEDVANCE is enabling its customers to achieve significant energy cost savings, and reduce CO2 emissions and waste through sustainable products, solutions and processes.
“For us, sustainability is not an afterthought but a benchmark for truly innovative products and a crucial ingredient for our corporate strategy,” explains Jean-Marc Vogel, managing director Western Europe at LEDVANCE. “This commitment is effective only, however, when applied across the entire chain. That’s why we’re providing sustained impetus throughout all areas of application – from LEDification in outdoor lighting, to increased energy efficiency with new retrofit LEDs, to the EVERLOOP product segment which helps to replace light sources and control gear in LED luminaires very easily and therefore making them truly circular.”
The full potential of light – new photovoltaic solutions
The new LEDVANCE Renewables range provides customers with photovoltaic systems and associated services from a single, trusted source. Designed for both private and commercial applications, the photovoltaic panels come as bifacial or monofacial modules, with power levels from 405 to 660 W and in various designs.
The robust, highly efficient and intelligent string or hybrid inverters are compatible with all system components and easy to install and operate. The various low-voltage and highvoltage batteries provide optimal performance and energy storage that can be expanded at any time. A LEDVANCE Renewables app enables users to monitor and control the system from any location at any time. Technical support helps customers to get the most out of the system – from initial consultation, delivery and installation, to power and energy monitoring and management.
From line to loop – new ways to a sustainable future
LEDVANCE LOOP is a new series of sustainable luminaires introduced to help transform the lighting industry and provide greater sustainability by pushing forward the transition from linear to circular processes. The result of this strategic realignment is two new product lines, EVERLOOP and NATURELOOP.
The EVERLOOP range offers easily replaceable LED light sources and drivers to maximise the lifespan of luminaires, avoid the disposal of complete luminaires, and reduce the number of electrical products going into the waste stream, thereby promoting a functioning circular economy. The NATURELOOP label stands for lamps and products that are manufactured and packaged using recycled materials. Each product with a NATURELOOP label contains at least 40 per cent recycled plastic (based on the plastic content of the product.) The packaging is also fully recyclable.
Professional solutions for all areas
Whether for the office, warehouse, outdoor space or sports venue, all LEDVANCE products meet the varying requirements whilst being sustainable and energy-efficient, user-friendly, easy to install, handle and maintain, highly efficient and customizable. The high quality of light and low glare of the PANEL and LINEAR INDIVILED luminaires meet the expectations of modern office lighting. To satisfy demands in the industrial sector, LEDVANCE offers robust and
durable luminaires with high IP/IK protection. In addition to the HIGHBAY luminaires, this includes the new high-performance LED tubes for particularly challenging areas.
Outdoor conditions require lighting solutions that are highly efficient, durable and standardcompliant such as the STREETLIGHT FLEX luminaires or the varied BULKHEAD portfolio with power select and IP65 protection. For sports venue lighting, the LOWBAY FLEX luminaires with optional ball-proof covers and LED solutions are tailored to the customer’s requirements as part of the SPECIFY program, such as the FLOODLIGHT ARENA stadium floodlight. For areas that require constant lighting such as streets, parks and pedestrian zones, the economic NAV LED FILAMENT AMBER retrofit solution offers a very low proportion of blue light (1.5 per cent), which helps to protect wildlife and residents from the potential adverse effects of blue light at nighttime.
Light management is VIVARES –versatile and powerful
In times of high energy prices, efficient and demand-oriented lighting control is important. VIVARES presents a wide range of DALI and Zigbee-based light management systems that are easy to install and operate, and provide energy and CO2 savings of as much as 80 per cent. LEDVANCE offers VIVARES for single room solutions (up to 200 m2) as an individually designed light management system or for floor solutions (up to 1,000 m²) across multiple rooms, including optional cloud embedding with a remote maintenance option. The systems work either with the established DALI-2 industry standard to operate up to 1,000 luminaires and 1,000 input devices, or the Zigbee 3.0 wireless standard to communicate with up to 200 compatible devices. LEDVANCE offers control units, luminaires, lamps and sensors from a single source, simple configuration and commissioning, individual support from lighting planning to on-site instruction, as well as comprehensive after-sales service.
Visit: www.ledvance.co.uk
Reuse | Recycle.
Recolight is the leading UK WEEE compliance scheme for lighting, taking on responsibility for its members’ WEEE compliance. O ering free integrated Lamp and Luminaire collection and recycling and the biggest UK-wide network of collection points for all WEEE lighting.
Recolight go beyond recycling, by o ering circular economy services, facilitating the reuse of lighting equipment, and helping to avoid unnecessary recycling of surplus new lighting. Working with the lighting industry, Recolight o er support and services to help their Producer Members transition to a Circular Economy.
Tail Kit Solutions:
18th Edition Amendment 2 Tail Kits from
As an expert in cable glands and entries WISKA are the perfect manufacturer to help guide you through the best options available, with a comprehensive range of Tail Kit Solutions WISKA have the products and expertise to ensure you remain compliant
For a number of years now the requirements for wiring compliant consumer units have changed significantly, most recently with the 18th Edition Amendment 2. One aspect of the installation that generates a number of questions is cable entry into the consumer unit. Let’s explore some of the cable types and the WISKA products available to use…
Metre tails
WISKA offers several solutions for 2 x 25m tails and 1 x 16m earth. The first is the TKE/P40/ RD a complete kit with an (ESKV) M40 gland, locknut, sealing insert, blind plug and reducer. This solution can be used with consumer units that have either an M40 or M32 knockout. All of WISKA’s cable glands are made of 100 per cent polyamide and offer IP68/69 protection, have a unique clamping cage with strain relief to EN 62444 and are glow wire tested to 750 degrees. The sealing inserts ensure cables are secure and protected. Alternatively, WISKA have recently launched a new wider entry M32 tail kit solution The TKE/P32+, allowing 2 x 25m tails and 1 x 16m earth to be installed into an M32 sized cable gland. This makes for a sleeker finish compared to the bulky M40 with reducer. Furthermore, the TKE/P32+ is available in the standard grey and now white to better match the colour of domestic consumer units.
As well as cable glands WISKA also offer an innovative grommet solution – the TKS 32. The TKS 32 took the industry by storm in 2017, winning Domestic and Residential Product of the Year at the Electrical Industry Awards. Designed, developed, and tested in WISKA Germany this M32, IP66 rated solution comes with multiple entries for 16 or 25mm tails and 10 or 16mm earth.
The sleek low-profile design allows for a flush fitting against the consumer unit, which looks great and allows you to save on space. It’s dual moulded component that requires no tool or locknut. Simple and easy to install yet still offering an excellent level of strain relief in accordance with EN 62444. The TKS 32 is also flame-retardant (glow wire tested 960 degrees). Simply push the TKS 32 into your entry point, pierce the membrane and insert your cables. Make sure the outer sheath is stripped at least 50mm for ease of entry.
Twin and earth cables
WISKA have a number of kits and solutions available for twin and earth cables, the first is a range of M20 cable glands complete with locknut and sealing insert. The M20 sizes offer solutions for 1 x 1.5mm, 2 x 1.5mm and 1 x 1.5-4mm. For 1 x 6mm and 2 x 2.5mm WISKA offer an M25 cable gland complete with locknut and insert and for 1 x 10-16mm WISKA offer an M32 cable gland complete with locknut and insert. A full list of codes and names can be found at www.wiska.co.uk.
As well as cable glands WISKA also offer a range of grommets. The EMT-F is an IP66, flame-retardant grommet (glow wire tested 960 degrees) available in M16, M20, M25 and M32 sizes. No locknut required simple push into entry, pierce membrane and insert cable. For added security the CLIXX grommet offers strain relief to EN 62444. The same high IP66/67 protection, glow wire tested to 750 degrees. Available in M16, M20 and M25 sizes CLIXX is quick and easy to install. No locknut
or tool required, simple push into entry, pierce membrane and insert cable.
3 Phase
For many commercial and larger properties, a 3 Phase Tail Kit solution is required. WISKA’s solution, the TKE/P50 an M50 cable gland complete with locknut, sealing insert and blind plug. Suitable for 4 x 25mm tails and 1 x 16mm earth making it the perfect solution for this requirement.
So, there you have it! WISKA’s range of tail kit solutions for the wiring of 18th Edition Amendment 2 compliant consumer units. To find out more head to www.wiska.co.uk or call WISKA UK Ltd on 01208 816062. Alternative you can e-mail info@wiska.co.uk WISKA, make power smile
Electrical training courses that work around you
XS Training provides online training courses for electricians at all stages in the industry. From beginners, to improvers, to experienced workers looking to attain their ECS/ JIB Gold Card.
City & Guilds Level 3 Electrical Qualification
Since 2011 XS Training Ltd have delivered NVQs, 18th Edition and AM2 preparation training throughout the UK and are now the UK’s number one online training provider for the NVQ Level 3 Electrical Installation. To be eligible to undertake these NVQ’s you must already have prior experience and qualifications and be currently working in the industry. Upon successful completion of your NVQ qualification, you become eligible to apply for the highly prized contractors’ ECS Gold Card and JIB grading.
These NVQs are completed online with their efficient and easy to use e-Portfolio system, OneFile.This means that you can complete the NVQ at a time of your choosing and in the comfort of your own home. Most people comfortably complete their NVQ between three and eight months.The NVQ courses they currently offer include:
• NVQ 2347-03 Level 3 Electrotechnical in Dwellings (Experienced Worker)
• NVQ 2357 Level 3 Electrical Installation and also the 18th Edition Course
XS Training have a unique course system to help you attain your chosen NVQ Level 3 qualification both quicker and easier than many alternative providers.
Experienced Assessors: You are supported from start to finish by a team of highly professional trainers and assessors who will provide you with support, advice and guidance on how to successfully complete your NVQ.
Online Portfolio: These NVQs are completed online with their efficient and easy to use e-Portfolio system. No written work is required because you simply upload your evidence and then have a professional discussion with your assessor based on the evidence you’ve collected.
Remote Assessments: They offer remote assessment, via the internet on your mobile phone whilst you’re working, meaning you
don’t have to take time out to come to a training centre to be assessed.
Learners who successfully complete their NVQ Level 3 qualification will meet the requirements to be eligible to apply for the highly prized ECS Gold Card from the JIB.
Attainment of this card is the ultimate recognition of competence as a qualified electrician and will open-up more opportunities for better and more well-paid work.
XS Training Academy Courses
As well as providing ePortfolio based assessor assisted courses in all NVQ Level 3 Electrical qualifications, XS Training now also offer additional online electrical courses created through their XS Training Academy.
Courses currently available include the popular AM2/AMS2/AM2E Preparation & Revision course which has had excellent results in boosting the number of candidates passing their AM2 Practical Examination (Unit 399) at the first time of taking to over 85 per cent.
All their online courses are based around a series of video training with a multiple-choice quiz at the end to test your knowledge and understanding. Other bespoke courses currently available include:
• C&G 2365 Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Beginners Foundation Course)
• C&G 2365 Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations
The Level 2 qualification is designed for new entrants to the industry - for aspiring electricians who have not already started an apprenticeship and with very little, if any, experience.
The Level 3 Electrical Installations Diploma is aimed at those who have completed the Level 2 Diploma or have sufficient current relevant experience and knowledge of the industry. Successful completion of these qualifications will provide the practical skills and knowledge and a firm foundation to progress further – and ultimately onto a qualification such as the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrotechnical Technology (2357) which can lead to becoming a fully qualified electrician.
Whether you’re an experienced electrician looking to gain your ECS/JIB Gold Card, an electrical improver, or a beginner looking to take your first steps in the electrical industry then XS Training is here to help and guide you on your journey.
To get in touch and find out more, visit: www.xstraining.com, email: enquiries@ xstraining.com, or call: 0800 170 0294
CABLE GLAND IDEAS FOR THE EMC DIRECTIVE
As cable glands do not emit EMI and are not susceptible to it, they are not directly covered by the directive, however, Lee Frizzell, technical director of CMP Products argues that they should still be an important consideration for system designers
The EMC directive is a European regulation to enforce limitations on all electrical and electronic equipment that may cause or be affected by electromagnetic interference (EMI).
EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) is becoming an increasingly important factor in the design of electrical and electronic systems. In a nutshell, it’s the ability of electrical or electronic equipment to function correctly in the presence of EMI.
EMI – also referred to as Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) or noise – is a disturbance in the magnetic field surrounding the equipment, which may affect electrical or electronic circuits in the vicinity. This may cause overvoltage, under-voltage or transients that can lead to the degradation of the circuit. In the case of a data path disturbance, these effects can range from an increase in error rate to a total loss of data. This can cause havoc with measuring instruments and can lead to errors being made due to corrupted data being used to make decisions.
EMI is commonly generated in automation utilising drives, motors and transmitters. Where equipment susceptible to EMI is in the vicinity, steps are taken to shield cables and enclosures from it. Safety standards and directives have been established to ensure that the environment, equipment and machinery are protected from both noise pollution and the potentially dangerous consequences of machinery malfunction.
The key initiative to address safety is the European Union EMC Directive. Originally enacted in 1989 under the Directive 89/336/ EEC, the EMC Directive has witnessed significant development since it first came into force three years later. It has been amended several times since then; the latest being in 2016, when the new EMC 2014/30/EU Directive became effective.
The Directive requires that products must not generate unwanted electromagnetic pollution or interference and that products must be immune to a reasonable amount of noise pollution or interference. EMC testing is required to be carried out on any electrical or electronic product that may either cause electromagnetic radiation or be affected by it.
The directive means equipment manufacturers must make considerations early in the electrical and electronic design process to ensure the equipment will pass EMC test requirements. Many design techniques are therefore being adopted to limit the EMI emissions at source or to protect susceptible equipment. Circuits may be partitioned, segregating EMC critical and non-critical areas. A good grounding scheme may be implemented, preventing earth loops leading to unwanted signals being radiated.
Shielded cables and enclosures are often utilised, providing barriers to unwanted radiated noise. However, a significant oversight is often at the point of cable entry into an electrical enclosure. By adding openings in enclosures, pathways are created to allow noise to breach the shielded enclosure. Un-terminated or poorly terminated cable shields can allow noise to be carried into the enclosures, acting as antennas to radiate noise onto sensitive circuits.
Grounding the cable shield effectively inside a cable gland at point of entry eliminates a potential noise pathway and reduces the risks of radiated emissions being carried into the enclosure. CMP cable glands, which employ a robust 360 degree circumferential termination of the cable screen, shield braid or armour (e.g. with a cone and clamping ring, or a dedicated continuity device) in their metallic body, contribute to the electromagnetic compatibility
of installations through reliable low impedance connections. Stats that are backed up by a number of industry studies into the role they can play in EMC protection.
One such independent study was commissioned by ourselves in 2021 and carried out by a third party, Eurofins E&E. 3 Metre Class B Radiated Emission Measurement tests were carried out in accordance with EN 55032, to gauge the performance of cable glands terminated onto screened, braid shielded and armoured cables. The results proved categorically that using a reliable, 360 degree termination of the shield or metallic cable layer inside the cable gland improved noise attenuation throughout the frequency range. When it comes to improving electrical safety, whether it be with the intention of protecting people, power supplies or data, it’s imperative that every potential step is taken to ensure the systems are the most robust they possibly can be. As such, selection of suitably proven cable glands needs to be given proper consideration.
CMP’s TruSeal TSZ cable glands are designed for superior EMC performance, providing 360 degree contact around screen circumference. CMP cable glands have been third-party tested, proving they can attenuate EMI across a wide range of frequencies.
For further information visit www.cmpproducts.com.
The hot topic of fire rating cable management systems
Mark Williams, lead marketing manager at Legrand UK & Ireland, clears up some of the confusion and explains how electrical contractors can ensure their installations meet customers’ criteria and satisfy safety standards
When it comes to cable management, the issue of fire safety can seem confusing as there is no single British standard that applies in relation to fire rating. One of the key factors in advancing the regulatory landscape is what can be learned in the wake of major fires. Since the Grenfell fire, Legrand’s cable management team has regularly fielded questions about the fire rating of our cable management systems. It is evident that electrical contractors could benefit from a clearer understanding of cable management system requirements when it comes to fire safety.
It is not surprising that confusion exists in the difficult-to-navigate world of regulations. Many of the current fire safety regulations in the UK are preceded by tragedies which drive changes that are put in place directly in response. While the vital progress in this area has been significant, the electrical industry could also stand to benefit from increased clarity.
Due to the potential for confusion, electrical contractors can take a proactive approach to fire safety and ensure the cable management systems they work with are tested to as high a standard as possible. It is therefore important for contractors to have a thorough understanding of fire safety and the implications that cable management solutions can have on a project.
How can manufacturers help?
As manufacturers, it is crucial that we offer proof of our products’ ability to withstand fire damage despite the lack of standards or legal obligations to cable management products. If manufacturers provide evidence of how their products perform in a fire situation, it is easier for contractors to work with confidence that their project will be provide high levels of safety for a building’s owners and occupiers.
As there is currently no British Standard in place, it is helpful to look abroad for an appropriate assessment benchmark. For example, in Germany there is a standard test for circuit integrity cabling that allows cable management manufacturers to fire test their products in a true to life installation.
The DIN4102-12 standard can expose building components, such as cable management
systems, to fire for in excess of 90 minutes, reaching a temperature of up to 1,000°C by the test’s conclusion. Swifts cable trays and ladders – as well as Salamandre distribution trunking – from Legrand, are examples of solutions that have been proven to withstand fire having been tested under DIN 4102-12 conditions.
When installing cable management pathways in UK buildings, it is important to adhere to the directions laid out in UK standards. If a stakeholder enquires about fire testing standards, it may be helpful to be able to discuss the DIN 4102-12 standard and the additional reassurance it provides.
What can contractors do?
To stay informed on fire safety, electrical professionals should actively engage with the training and education opportunities available. In support of the industry, Legrand has created several CPDs on fire safety, covering cable pathways, compliance and containment and can be completed free of charge via Legrand’s Training Academy. Other resources freely available include Legrand’s guide:
Creating Cable Pathways – an explainer on ensuring cable management will not contribute
to the spread of fire or premature collapse, and the Fire Safety and Cable Management white paper.
In the CPD portfolio is the recently launched Premature collapse and fire rated containment seminar exploring the UK standards landscape as it applies to cable management systems.
This CPD covers fire prevention, construction product regulations and wiring regulations and can be completed virtually or at Legrand’s training facilities in London or Birmingham. By undertaking CPDs such as these, electricians can strengthen their understanding of fire safety and what is needed to minimise risk.
The pace at which regulatory change can occur means it is crucial that electrical professionals are proactive when it comes to fire safety. They must ensure time is taken to understand the standards they need to adhere to, the products available and the standards they are tested against. Undergoing training will help contractors and installers position themselves to offer their clients peace of mind and clarity when it comes to the fire safety of their buildings.
For more on Legrand’s fire safety resources and training, see Legrand.co.uk.
Univolt UK get ready for 2024
Following a year of significant growth in 2023, David Mattin, managing director of Univolt UK discusses what’s ahead for the business in 2024
Following a year of significant growth and with some major developments across the UK business, Univolt is preparing for further expansion in 2024.
A move to a new 26,000sq ft, stateof-the-art warehouse and office facility was completed at the end of 2023, providing almost three times the warehouse and office space compared to the previous headquarters. The move has been our biggest step forward to date and will ultimately allow us to maximise and leverage the capabilities of our factories in Austria, China and Slovakia.
Our customers will begin to realise the benefits of these major changes in the year ahead, when they will be able to access larger quantities of in-stock products.
We’ll continue to retain our focus on core products, however, Univolt’s ground breaking safety driven HFT range has been gathering momentum globally in 2023, having been specified across major schemes including the new Australian metro upgrade programme. More and more specifiers are exploring the potential of this unique product and the business expects to see an increasing demand throughout 2024.
supporting accessorises to enhance the potential of these ranges further still. Univolt will also begin to modify the profile of some of its core products in a move that reflects a demand for a changing design aesthetic.
2023 saw considerable changes within the team including the senior appointment of industry expert, Neil Crook, and we are set to make further announcements in the year ahead. Building the team and making the right appointments using a considered and long term view is critical as Univolt grows.
Looking further afield, Univolt has its sights firmly set on further penetrating the Irish market, forging a dynamic new partnership with leading distributor, Atex. The long established firm supplies over 200 wholesaler brands across the Republic of Ireland and is now the country’s exclusive supplier of Univolt’s complete cable containment range.
Univolt has held a presence in Ireland for some time, and recognise the scope and potential of the country, however, we haven’t had the right distributor to make the right impact. The collaboration with Atex will undoubtedly change this, and the union marks the beginning of
The year ahead will also see the business focus on strengthening existing ranges, adapting products to suit changing needs and introducing
a fantastic partnership for both parties and a strong shift into new territories.
Back in the UK, our commitment to the buying groups of which we’ve largely been part of for many years, remains as strong as ever. The networks that we have built and the relationships we’ve established have played a leading role in the evolution and growth of the business and we recognise the continued importance of buying groups moving forward. Alongside business opportunities, these groups provide a platform from which we can engage with like-minded businesses, share ideas, challenges and solutions.
Sustainability is an issue that remains on everyone lips as we all explore ways in which to
reduce our carbon footprint and minimise the effect our operation has on the environment. We have set ourselves strong targets internally as a business and are also part of national initiatives such as Ecovadis and Sedex that help us benchmark our efforts and strive for continual improvement. In the UK, we are currently piloting the concept of utilising paper packaging for all products and are working to develop this idea further in the future.
We pride ourselves on our agile approach in terms of customer service, processing and products. We are able to develop bespoke products internally, adapting to a specific need focusing on design, colour, profile etc. Modular design is gathering pace as well as prefab and
we are working with customers who want to see the cable management element form part of that wider approach.
Since our inception in the UK some years ago, we have built a brilliant business, forging excellent relationships and supplying quality products as part of growing range. We cannot undervalue the role that the wholesaler plays in our business model. We remain committed to the wholesaler and value each and every one of those businesses, including the independents as well as the national chains. Collaboration with the wholesaler sector will always be a critical component within our business.
2023 was a huge year for the UK arm of the business. We’ve seen so much growth and change – it’s been quite phenomenal. For the year ahead, we are now looking to consolidate our products and services and utilise the considerable resources we have in place to take the business to the next level.
We will also be introducing new products onto the market that compliment and support existing ranges and working with wholesale businesses and buying groups in the true spirit of partnership. As a team were ready for 2024, and the potential it offers us is incredibly exciting!
“Sustainability is an issue that remains on everyone lips as we all explore ways in which to reduce our carbon footprint and minimise the effect our operation has on the environment. We have set ourselves strong targets internally as a business and are also part of national initiatives such as Ecovadis and Sedex that help us benchmark our efforts and strive for continual improvement.”
Mastering safe isolation
Steve Dunning, managing director of Martindale Electric, explains why essential tools like reliable voltage indicators and lockout kits are crucial to safe working
Safe isolation procedures are not only vital for the direct protection of electricians but also for the safety of all individuals on a job site and choosing and using the appropriate tools is crucial. The first step is to select a reliable voltage indicator that can be tested for functionality, typically with a dedicated proving unit. Next, employ suitable lockout devices and warning signs for the specific circuit being tested. Inadequate or improper use of these essential tools and methods can lead to dangerous situations where a circuit may accidentally remain live, posing serious risks. Lockout devices are available both as stand-alone products and more commonly as part of comprehensive kits. A variety of kits with different combinations exist to suit various needs, but a basic set should contain a range of locks for miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) and other types of breaker, a padlock with a unique key or a combination lock and a hasp to be used when multiple individuals are engaged in servicing a system. Additionally, the kit should come with an assortment of lockout tags and warning stickers.
When carrying out the lockout procedure, if a switch on a distribution board or any other disconnection device is used, it must be secured in the ‘off’ position with an appropriate lock, complemented by clear signage to inform others about the ongoing work. The key or the code for the combination lock should remain with the individual performing the task or with an appointed representative to ensure safety and responsibility. It is critical that the padlock used during lockout procedures is secured with a unique key or combination that is exclusively held by the individual performing the work. This prevents unauthorised persons from removing the lock, which could lead to the circuit accidentally becoming live. A lock that operates with a unique key is considered the most secure option. After the circuit breaker has been locked off, a warning tag must be attached to signal that the circuit is out of service and maintenance is underway.
Proving dead
With the vast array of electrical testing tools on the market, including voltage detectors, multimeters and indicators, understanding the specific requirements for proving dead is crucial. It’s important to recognise why certain tools, like multimeters, are not suitable for this purpose. Awareness of compliance standards for voltage detectors is also essential – they should meet
the BS EN61243-3 standard and adherence to HSE Guidance GS38 concerning electrical test equipment for low voltage systems is a must.
The need for proving a circuit is dead arises because labelling can often be absent, or more dangerously incorrect. It is not safe to assume a circuit or those adjacent to it are dead just because the isolation device appears to be in the off position. The recommended method is to employ a purpose-built voltage indicator alongside a known source of voltage, preferably a dedicated proving unit that is compatible with the voltage of the system being tested. Various devices are available for this purpose, including test lamps and voltage indicators like the Martindale VI-13800 or VI-15000 models. Critically, a voltage indicator used for proving dead must be capable of functioning without a battery, as reliance on a battery-powered device can be fallible – if the battery is depleted, it would fail to confirm that the circuit is dead.
The established method of proving dead involves a multi-step verification with a voltage indicator. Initially, the voltage indicator is tested on a known energy source, such as a proving unit, to ensure it’s working correctly. Then, the circuit in question is checked. Following this, the voltage indicator is tested again on the known source to verify that it has remained operational throughout the process. While a live source could be used for testing, a proving unit specifically matched to the voltage indicator is a safer and more reliable option. This is because a live source might only activate some of the indicator’s LEDs, which could lead to misinterpretation if any LEDs are
malfunctioning. A proving unit, on the other hand, checks that all LEDs are functional across all ranges. Additionally, a suitable live source may not always be readily available, making the proving unit a quicker and more secure choice.
HSE Guidance note GS38 recommends use of a proprietary test lamp or two pole voltage detectors for proving dead. Multimeters and non-contact detectors also measure and detect voltage, Multimeters are not ideal because it’s easy to mistakenly set the wrong measurement range. They also rely on battery power, which can lead to incorrect ‘dead’ readings if the battery is weak or exhausted. Non-contact detectors, which also depend on battery power, can be triggered by unconnected signals like static electricity and cannot be accurately tested with a standard proving unit. These devices can indicate the presence of live wires, but they shouldn’t be trusted to conclusively prove dead.
Electrical Safety First has compiled a comprehensive guidance document that outlines best practices for safe isolation (Best Practice Guide 2). This document provides detailed instructions on confirming that equipment or circuits are dead using appropriate test lamps and voltage detectors. It serves as an invaluable resource for ensuring adherence to safety standards in the electrical industry.
Martindale’s memorable, compliant safe isolation procedure “ALIVE” incorporates five key steps to safe isolation. It can help reduce the number of electricity related accidents the workplace. For more information on Martindale’s ALIVE campaign and its range of proving devices, visit: martindale-electric.co.uk
Fire protection provided at 5 Aldermanbury Square in London
Fire protection solutions manufacturer, Advanced, has supplied intelligent fire panels to 5 Aldermanbury Square, London, as part of a major refurbishment
Advanced’s high-performance, fault-tolerant MxPro 5 analogue addressable fire panels are providing industry-leading protection to all areas of the 22-storey building.
5 Aldermanbury Square is located in the City of London with the Eric Parry designed landmark delivering exceptional views across the London skyline. Fire safety and security specialists, Pacific Security Systems Ltd, was contracted to undertake the upgrade of the building’s current Advanced fire panel network. The existing system was an Advanced MX4000 so migrating the system over to new MxPro 5 panels was the obvious solution due to the useful backward compatibility. Since all works had to be completed overnight to ensure the system was fully operational during the day, this compatibility proved essential.
Pacific Security Systems was involved in the design, installation and commissioning of the fire system. 12 MxPro 5 panels were installed along with an Advanced graphics system and a two-stage staff alarm for false alarm management. Advanced’s special build service was also able to design and build a bespoke floor-standing double annunciator that sits on the network via the PEN network device and provides: zonal indication; sounder control; damper status and control; fire phone control; and sprinkler and wet riser indication. The Advanced system is linked to over 3,000 devices including access control systems, dampers, BMS and plant shutdowns. The system uses Apollo protocol and Discovery optical smoke detectors are installed throughout.
Kirk Short, director of Pacific Security Systems Ltd, said “Advanced’s ability to provide a full package of panels, graphics and special-build service is why we have been specifying and installing their equipment for over 10 years. The MxPro 5 panels provide a powerful platform,
comprehensive cause and effect functions, fast network and user-friendly controls and were the ideal solution for 5 Aldermanbury Square. Their backwards compatibility enabled us to upgrade the system overnight while maintaining essential fire protection throughout the refurbishment –no easy feat!”
Matthew Jones, head of sales for UK and Ireland at Advanced, said: “We are delighted that Advanced’s fire panels are providing essential fire protection to the RIBA-award winning 5 Aldermanbury Square. Our MxPro 5 panels are designed to make life as easy as possible, delivering robust protection that offers real peace of mind, all backed up by our highly rated technical support.”
MxPro 5 is the fire industry’s leading multiprotocol fire panel and is certified by FM Approvals to EN 54 Parts 2 and 4. It offers customers a choice of four detector protocols and a completely open installer network, backed up by free training and support. MxPro 5 can
be used in single-loop, single-panel format, or easily configured into high-speed networks of up to 200 panels covering huge areas. Ease of installation and configuration, as well as its wide range of peripheral options, make MxPro 5 customisable to almost any application.
The MxPro 5’s stand-out false alarm management capabilities are available as standard. AlarmCalm delivers unprecedented control of verification and investigation delays. By dividing sites up into virtual false alarm ‘building areas’ independent of fire zones, much more precise control of false alarm management and reduction strategies can be achieved, that exactly fit the needs of each part of a building. An optional AlarmCalm button allows trained occupants to verify if they believe a local fire signal is a false alarm too – a highly effective way of eliminating unwanted alarms.
The MxPro 5 BMS/graphics interface allows BMS systems and graphical control PCs to be easily integrated with the MxPro 5 series of fire control panels and remote terminals using a simple RS232 connection. Multiple interfaces can be connected to the network catering for sites requiring control from a number of graphical PCs.
As a world leader in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems, Advanced products are specified in locations around the world, from single-panel installations to large, multi-site networks. The Advanced portfolio includes complete fire detection systems, multiprotocol fire panels, extinguishing control, false alarm management and reduction systems as well as emergency lighting.
Advanced is owned by FTSE 100 company Halma PLC – a global group of life-saving technology companies with a clear purpose to grow a safer, cleaner, healthier future for everyone, every day.
For further information on Advanced, Tel: 0345 894 7000 or visit: www.advancedco.com
“Advanced’s ability to provide a full package of panels, graphics and special-build service is why we have been specifying and installing their equipment for over 10 years. The MxPro 5 panels provide a powerful platform, comprehensive cause and effect functions, fast network and user-friendly controls and were the ideal solution for 5 Aldermanbury Square. ”
Triple Star enhances efficiency with Tufflex Tile
Fire system specialist Triple Star Fire & Security is streamlining its fire detection and alarm system installations with a lightweight pattress solution - Tufflex Tile
Kent-based
Triple Star Fire & Security supplies, installs and maintains life safety equipment, including fire alarms and detection systems for a diverse range of properties ranging from the iconic Royal Liver Building in Liverpool and Goldsmiths University of London to care homes and prestigious London mansions. The family-owned business is committed to quality, innovation and improving standards within the industry.
Managing director Daren Pool wanted to find a way to streamline the installation of fire detection and alarm systems in suspended ceilings as part of the company’s drive to deliver a high level of service. Traditional methods involving a plywood or MDF pattress are time-consuming and cumbersome, so a more efficient method was needed.
Tufflex Tile from Marshall-Tufflex, which Triple Star Fire & Security purchase from electrical wholesaler, Rexel in Maidstone, has provided the perfect solution. The tile is manufactured from Correx, making it extremely lightweight yet robust. Signifcantly, Tufflex Tile is pre-cut to the standard 595mm2 ceiling tile aperture which reduces cutting and sawing time on site so pattress installations can be carried out quickly and trouble-free. In addition, as Correx is flame retardant and (LSF) low smoke fume, it removes a vital component of the fire triangle, significantly benefiting the end user. “It’s a great product, especially with the tapered corners that help make installation far easier as we no longer need to spend time shifting and negotiating the pattress into the ceiling suspension system,” says Daren. “It also allows us to work with a firerated material, compared to the traditional plywood or MDF pattress.”
Triple Star Fire & Security has already used Tufflex Tile on eight fire detection and alarm system projects that feature a mix of wired and wireless devices. “Tufflex Tile delivers a significant time saving for our installations and also overcomes us having to ask the main contractor to provide wooden pattresses,” concludes Daren Poole.
By adopting Tufflex Tile, Triple Star Fire & Security has enhanced its efficiency without compromising on quality and demonstrates how, by choosing effective materials, Marshall-Tufflex delivers reliable and effective solutions.
To find out more about the Tufflex Tile, please visit: www.marshalltufflex.com/tufflextile
What is the real risk of fire from solar panels?
Richard Williams, founder and managing director of Aztec Solar Energy Ltd, shares
on safety issues facing the sector
With recent reports of a domestic solar panel exploding on a roof at a West London council house, is there a hidden danger lurking? How does this impact confidence and the growth of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels across both domestic and commercial sectors?
Last year, primarily due to the energy price crisis and a sustainability drive, the solar power industry saw a significant jump in solar PV installations. According to data from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS)the standards organisation for solar energy and heating - 130,596 solar panels were mounted on UK roof tops in 2022.
This figure represented growth in one year which was previously only experienced in the three years between 2019 to 2021 combined, with the exception of those years following subsidy changes. These figures include all solar PV systems with a generating capacity of up to 50 kilowatts and registered with the MCS, notably therefore the figure is likely to be even higher, with an increasing number of installations in the UK not registered at all. It does mean there are over 1.3 million registered solar power installations across the country, two thirds on the ground and the remainder on residential and commercial roofs, generating at least 15GW of solar power in the UK.
PV solar panels promise cost savings in terms of energy bills and are described as the clean and green electric energy. Seen in many a field and roof top, the growth of the solar PV panel has been significant and is changing the energy landscape. But what controls are in place and who is monitoring safety?
Some may be shocked that PV installers are not legally bound to follow the guidelines or obtain accreditations from certifying organisations such as the MCS. The big issue is that anyone can install a solar panel in the UK. Yes, work must be cleared by the local council and the government ‘recommends’ use of a registered electrician, but it’s not a necessity by law. As with all electrical installations, electrical incidents may happen, which is why all electricians are qualified and must undertake regular competency training and on-going refresher training. Arc faults and faulty wiring
his views
The big issue is that anyone can install a solar panel in the UK. Yes, work must be cleared by the local council and the government ‘recommends’ use of a registered electrician, but it’s not a necessity by law.
can cause solar panels to catch fire and the risk of a solar panel catching fire is very low, but it is not zero.
Solar panel fires can be caused by improper installation or maintenance, and by damage from extreme weather events, such as hail or lightning. Higher voltages can be prone to arcing and is a known common cause of fires, but through the installation of micro inverters connected to the panel to convert the output to a safer level they considerably reduce the risks. As does using reputable and registered PV installers and, like maintaining your car, checks need to be done on all PV installations regularly. PV panels are often forgotten about and left to deteriorate and with those systems come risks, as with any neglected equipment.
It’s important to be up to date with the latest safety recommendations and regulations, and
as with all things new, products evolve. Technologies continue to develop and with that have come new solar panels that are more resilient and offer an even greater reduction in fire risks. Understanding these products and their installation comes from experience and working in an evolving sector and with experts who can recommend the most appropriate panels and systems for installation.
The first step would simply be to ensure those installing your PV system and / or battery storage are registered with the MCS and has been installed in accordance with IET guidance. This will verify the competence of the installer and the installer is duty bound to use verified products, so ensuring safety and quality. Anyone concerned about their PV systems should seek further advice and consider retrofitting a micro inverter AC system or module level optimisation. Look at the maintenance programme and ensure the system has been checked through periodic testing and by a professional. If at all worried and you suspect signs of overheating, isolate the supply, and call the installer.
As with all technologies that have been installed effectively and are maintained and managed, be assured solar PV panels will deliver clean, cost-effective power safely.
New Fire Manager app
Part of Siemens Building X Expansion
Siemens Smart Infrastructure is launching a new version of ‘Fire Manager’, its dedicated web-based SaaS (Software as a Service) fire app that offers service providers and fire safety managers the capability to have all fire safety sites in one view. The status of buildings can be easily monitored, with more information available by clicking on a site of interest via a fully encrypted connection that ensures the safety of the data.
The move is part of the ongoing development of Siemens Building X, a digital building platform that supports customers in digitalising, managing, and optimising their building operations (energy, HVAC, security and safety). It enables remote monitoring and intervention, real-time notification, and efficient and predictive maintenance.
Fire Manager offers a range of benefits, including a status overview of a site/sites, both live and historical events, customisable notification via SMS and/or email, and data that assists with maintenance and planning. Included in the data that Fire Manager provides from a fire safety system is the potential for
disturbance free testing (DFT), which allows detectors to be tested automatically, with the results recorded in the portal.
Alongside Fire Manager, which automatically transmits notifications of the fire system status to service providers, notifications can also be sent to their customers by Fire Connect, a native iOS and Android app.
Fire Manager and Fire Connect work easily with Siemens fire safety solutions such as Cerberus PRO, the company’s comprehensive EN54-13 approved fire alarm system. For those that want to maintain their own dashboards,
ICON DESKTOP MODULES
Fire API provides the opportunity to integrate the data into their own dashboards.
All three offerings - Fire Manager, Fire Connect and Fire API - are part of a new licensing model which paves the way for increased customer flexibility by offering choice regarding which data and app bundle best suits a specific need.
The Fire Apps and API are designed to digitalise the customer workflow for fire safety operation and maintenance. This saves time and resources while improving safety and minimising the disturbance of building users. It enables service providers to monitor all sites at any time remotely and connect directly to the fire panel. This transparency allows for maintenance activities to be planned, carried out and documented efficiently. The enhanced solutions not only drive digital transformation, but also yield sustainability benefits. By offering maintenance options and a fire system status remotely, it is possible to save CO2 emissions related to yearly site visits.
For further information, visit: siemens.co.uk/ cerberus and siemens.com/smart-infrastructure
East Devon Council adopt strategy for net zero using Aico’s HomeLINK
East Devon District Council are enhancing energy efficiency in fifty properties, in line with their commitment to the PAS 2035 Retrofit Programme. Using Aico’s HomeLINK Gateway and Environmental Sensors, the council want to actively mitigate their carbon footprint and progress towards net zero by implementing proactive energy efficiency measures. As part of the UK Government’s comprehensive net zero strategy, the overarching goal for the entirety of the UK is to decarbonise all industries and sectors, working towards achieving net zero by 2050.
Challenge: Driving towards net zero PAS 2035 serves as a guiding document for quality energy retrofits in existing domestic buildings. It provides guidance considering the home, environment, occupancy, and objectivity rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach. Adhering to these standards and leveraging Aico’s IoT technology, the council aims to not only improve energy efficiency but also to set a precedence for sustainable retrofit practices, contributing to a more environmentally conscious and energy-efficient future. With the strategic placement of Aico’s HomeLINK Gateways and Environmental Sensors, residents will be able to make wellinformed decisions, and will give the council access to non-intrusive actionable insights. The data-driven comprehension of the properties in their portfolio will allow them to identify the need of upgrades, and therefore, enabling the council to take the correct measures, and in turn, increase efficiency within the properties and create healthier homes for residents.
Solution: Aico’s IoT technology for informed retrofit decisions
Aico’s HomeLINK Connected Home Solution integrates hardware and software to collect data from connected devices (Fire and Carbon Monoxide Alarms, and Environmental Sensors) through the HomeLINK Gateway, accessible via the HomeLINK Portal. Data surfaced on the Portal presents actionable insights and alerts detecting alarm activations, alarm head removals, test button activations, and replacement dates, so landlords can ensure their residents’ homes are safe.
With the addition of HomeLINK Environmental Sensors, the council are able to monitor temperature and humidity throughout a property, providing insights into condensation, damp and mould, and fuel poverty. With growing concerns around how residents can keep their houses warm with increased
energy costs, this data can display signs of heat loss across a housing portfolio and allow intervention for improvements before cold temperatures cause health problems for the residents. It’s about more than technology; it’s about enhancing the quality of living spaces while respecting privacy, safety, and individual property archetypes. The portal also offers specialist insight using a framework called ‘Structural Vs Environmental’, which uses data from the Environmental Sensors to detect damp and mould risk, offering a practical alternative to outdated data loggers.
By leveraging data-driven analysis, East Devon District Council can make informed decisions regarding retrofit measures.
With the uptake of The Connected Home Solution the council will be able to improve:
• Energy efficiency - Identifying vulnerable properties enables the council to proactively address potential risks by enhancing homes through upgrades such as improved ventilation, enhanced insulation, and new windows. The retrofitting upgrades will therefore facilitate a reduction in energy consumption, ultimately leading to decreased energy bills for residents. Consequently, this initiative will contribute to lowering energy costs for the residents.
• Improved indoor environmental quality - By leveraging data from Environmental Sensors, the council can proactively maintain optimal conditions for residents, ultimately promoting the health and wellbeing of residents.
• Net zero progress - The council’s initiative is aligned with net zero objectives that
will set the stage for upcoming retrofit initiatives in the county. The extended pilot project, encompassing 50 properties across the district, aims to promote sustainable practices, ensuring a positive impact on the lives of residents.
The future: Data driven insights for better homes
This data-driven approach aims to provide valuable insights for a successful retrofitting process which is associated with the council’s mission to positively impact residents’ lives and the environment, the initiative contributes to the creation of better homes and communities. This effort reflects the council’s commitment to fostering a greener East Devon.
Paul Ingram, Programmed Works and Climate Change manager for East Devon District Council commented: “In the transformative journey towards achieving net zero in our PAS 2035 retrofit program, we found unparalleled satisfaction with the integration of Aico’s HomeLINK Gateway and Environmental Sensors. These cutting-edge technologies not only demonstrate our commitment to sustainability but will also play a pivotal role in optimising energy efficiency. We are buoyed by seamless implementation of these solutions, and immensely happy with the HomeLINK Gateway with its user-friendly interface and robust performance. The Environmental Sensors, strategically placed throughout the retrofit project, will provide real-time data that will empower the team to make informed decisions, ensuring every aspect of our buildings meet stringent eco-friendly standards.”
Visit: aico.co.uk/homelink to learn more.
30 0 0 SERIES
FULL CIRCLE PROTECTION
Simple and intelligent, the 3000 Series provides whole property coverage.
The technologically advanced 3000 Series includes both Multi-Sensor and Single-Sensor alarms, detecting Fire and Carbon Monoxide from just one range, while maintaining the simplicity that Installers love.
Smart, connected and future-proof.
Add the Ei3000MRF for wireless interconnection and data extraction via the Ei1000G Gateway
We need to address the problem of avoidable hob fires
Adrian Barber from Prefect Controls investigates the issue of fires caused by unattended hobs in student kitchens – and asks how big is the problem? and how can we reduce the risk?
For many students, moving away from home for the first time is very exciting. But with the excitement comes potential for distraction, inadvertently placing themselves in danger by not giving the cooking of meals their full attention. On average, each year, firefighters in London attend more than 250 fire alarms in kitchens at student accommodation premises - 90 per cent are false alarms. This is hugely inconvenient for everyone that must be evacuated from buildings. It is also dangerous, as fire crews could be delayed from attending genuine emergencies.
67 per cent of fires in UK homes start in the kitchen. Electrical Safety First, the campaigning organisation, aims to reduce death and injury caused by electricity, and is recognised by government and industry as the leading authority on electrical safety.
It’s five-year survey found that 1 in 7, the equivalent of 300,000 students, admitted to falling asleep while cooking food. 56 per cent confirmed they had used a cooker while under the influence of alcohol. Unsurprisingly, during the survey period there were 911 accidental fires in student halls, 80 per cent of these in kitchens, and 60 per cent of them during the night. These are harrowing statistics! Keeping young people safe must be the priority of any accommodation provider. But this responsibility extends beyond the student population.
Residents of assisted living accommodation, hostels, holiday cabins and caravans, and the kitchens of people living with dementia, are all environments that would benefit from devices that monitor heat levels on the cooking surface and identify unattended kitchens. Audible and visual alerts warn occupants of imminent dangerous situations. If no action is taken the units cut power to the hob before the smoke detector is activated and well in advance of fire alarms sounding. This avoids both evacuation and fire service call outs.
The University of the West of England (UWE) recently installed the HobSensus device in kitchens across its Frenchay Campus in Bristol. HobSensus reduces the risk of kitchen fires as it prevents hobs from being left switched on when the kitchen is unattended. It has a timer with 15-, 20-, 30- or 120-minute run times, enough for most pan-based meals to be cooked. When the time elapses, should the person preparing the food forget to turn the hob off, the power will be automatically cut.
But the clever part of the device is the 64-zone sensor that ‘watches’ the cooking surface, measuring the temperature in each zone. If the heat approaches a dangerous level, an audible warning is sounded, and the green active lights begin to flash amber. If no action is taken and the temperature continues to rise, the warning sound becomes more intense and
the lights flash red. Then, before flashpoint is reached, the power is cut to the hob, making the kitchen safe.
Chris Shellard is a project manager and Maintenance Supervisor at UWE, he commented on UWE’s recent installation, “It went very well, even though most rooms were occupied it didn’t cause any disturbance. It took about 45 minutes per room to fit. There is a power unit that goes between the cooker’s isolator switch and the hob. This communicates with the Sensor Head unit that is positioned centrally over the hob. It communicates by Blue Tooth. The Sensor head is powered with low voltage cable from the power supply, but where this wasn’t possible because of splashbacks and so on, it uses batteries. Since the installation, there haven’t been any incidents involving hobs”.
With a growing number of avoidable incidents, it is surprising that timers and sensors that make kitchens safer are not as commonplace as CO2 and smoke detectors. Perhaps Electrical Safety First’s recognition of the problem, by way of last year’s Safety Innovation Award going to HobSensus, will place more emphasis on safety in kitchens where there is a potential for hobs to be left unattended. Judges were particularly impressed with affordability, ease of retrofitting, and robust design and manufacture of the product.
HobSensus prevents hobs from being left switched on if the person preparing food is distracted or leaves the kitchen unattended.
The sensor ‘watches’ the cooking surface and if temperatures approach dangerous levels it cuts power to the hob, leaving the kitchen safe.
Terry Boswell , WISKA UK Ltd
What’s your current role at WISKA and what does your job involve?
My role at WISKA UK is technical sales manager. Much of my time is spent seeing customers and working on projects, so I spend a fair amount of time travelling around the UK. When I am in the office, my time is spent discussing and working on new products. I also work closely with our sales team, whilst supporting any technical queries throughout the company.
How did you join the industry?
I joined WISKA at 18 years old, just after finishing my A Levels at college. At this point in time, I was looking for an apprenticeship and WISKA were offering an scheme that gave me the opportunity to continue my education and gain experience at the same time.
How did you progress in the company after the apprenticeship ended?
Initially, I began my apprenticeship working in a mixture of departments within the company. I gained experience working in the warehouse, marketing department and sales department. I then progressed in the sales office from an internal sales co-ordinator to running the sales office, along with managing the IT within the company. From this, I was able to progress further, which gave me the opportunity to develop my own customer base covering project work.
How has the electrical industry developed since you started?
I feel the industry has changed in many ways since the time I started. In particular, there has been a lot of
WISKA we have continually developed and changed how we do things to adapt to our customer requirements and making their experience the best it can be.
changes to industry regulations. At WISKA, we have developed many products to comply with these regulations, which makes ensuring compliance much easier for installers.
There has also be many changes in technology and buying habits for customers. At WISKA we have continually developed and changed how we do things to adapt to our customer requirements and make their experience the best it can be.
What is the biggest challenge facing the industry now?
Q: A: Q: A:
The biggest challenge the industry is facing right now is keeping up with changes happening for a greener future. An example of this is the increase in the demand of electric vehicles. A lot of infrastructure needs to be put in place, along with electric vehicle chargers to keep up with the demand. At WISKA, we are continually developing our products to make these installations quicker and easier, and to help installers keep up with these demands.
What are your thoughts on the future of the industry?
I think the industry will continue to grow. Our marketplace has shown that it can adapt and survive to anything that is thrown its way. Technological changes and world issues with sustainability and energy usage will provide lots of opportunities for our customer base.
Tell us more about Wiska’s newest products?
WISKA have recently released many new innovative products, including our ShieldGLAND which is an IP68 plastic/brass hybrid cable gland suitable for all types of cable, including SWA and SY type cables. Thanks to its innovative design, it allows a much quicker and easier install of armoured cables, without the need for a shroud and offering superior protection.
We have also just released our new KonnektIT maintenance-free junction box, for total ease of enclosing connections when using WAGO lever connector.
Q: A: Q: A:
What’s next for WISKA
We will be launching the worlds first 3 shot component cable gland, which will not only allow superior quality, high strain relief, ease of installation and time saving, but will also have 54.5 per cent less carbon footprint against traditional polyamide glands.
For more information on WISKA and its products, please visit: www.wiska.co.uk
Knightsbridge’s bumper book reveals over 400 new products
Knightsbridge, one of the UK’s leading brands of wiring devices, accessories and lighting, has just published its 2024 catalogue, available to the trade from 1 February.
The handy A5-sized, full colour publication – which runs to nearly 500 pages – is rammed with over 3,000 products, including over 400 new ones, featuring the latest innovations in wiring accessories and lighting.
Conveniently divided into three sections – Wiring Accessories, Lighting and Smart Home – it is further sub-divided into easy-to-reference chapters, from moulded switches and sockets, metal clad switches and weatherproof through to domestic interior, outdoor and commercial lighting.
As a result of consultation with customers, all wiring accessories have been revamped with the introduction of ‘top down termination’ for even easier installation; and all decorative sockets now feature USB A and USB C charging outlets as standard. New designs for wiring accessories also include raised edge in matt black, building on the continuing trend for dark finishes.
The catalogue lists all the traditional favourites too, across a wide range of categories and applications. To get your copy simply visit the webiste below or give Knightsbridge a call on 01582 887760. A digital edition is also available on the company’s website for reading or download. www.mlaccessories.co.uk/catalogue-request
ESP has large CCTV projects covered with 24/7 colour IP range
For large, commercial projects requiring a robust and reliable CCTV solution, leading security products supplier, ESP, is able to provide an all-embracing solution. From the initial stages which includes scoping the project, site visits and providing detailed drawings and 3D plans, through to the specification of the CCTV system that will best suit the application, contractors can rely on a team of qualified and experienced design engineers and technical experts to help deliver the ideal solution.
ESP’s 24/7 Colour IP POE CCTV range is designed to offer superior, reliable and straightforward installation solutions for a range of applications including larger and more complex commercial projects. Guaranteeing sharp detail, in colour, day or night, the IP POE range includes a variety of cameras offering 5MP and 8MP resolutions and a choice of 8MP NVRs with a range of channel options - 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64-channels.
A brochure showcasing the 24/7 colour CCTV range can be downloaded from the ESP website and from the Scolmore Group app. www.espuk.com
New Elucian REC Isolator Switch from Click
Click Scolmore continues to expand its Elucian consumer unit range to provide electricians with the broadest possible range of units and protective devices to cater for all installation requirements. The latest addition to Elucian is a new REC Isolator Switch, which is designed to make the connection of consumer unit tails to the electricity supply highly secure as well as much easier and more convenient.
In several regions of the UK, REC isolator units have become an integral component of the residential power supply setup. These units feature a front cover divided into two segments, allowing contractors and supply authorities to securely seal and lock off their respective ends, effectively thwarting any unauthorised access. This arrangement not only enhances security but also proves to be a time- and cost-saving measure. By enabling the connection of the supply tails directly to the REC unit, it obviates the need for repetitive visits by contractors and supply authorities to establish the final connection, thereby streamlining the process.
The Elucian by Click range can be viewed on the Scolmore Group website as well as on the Scolmore Group app. www.scolmore.com
Ovia’s revolutionary new Inceptor Rio LED Batten
The Inceptor Rio is a brand new, cuttingedge range of Ultra Low Glare (UGR >19) LED Batten Luminaires from Ovia. Rio is packed with innovative features and is engineered to meet the diverse needs of modern environments.
As with the majority of Ovia’s Inceptor luminaires, the Inceptor Rio has been tested and meets the requirements of TM66 Assured Product Verification Scheme which is developed and fulfilled by the LIA and endorsed by CIBSE with the aim of advancing circular economy practices within the lighting industry.
Inceptor Rio is available in two sizes - 1,500mm and 1,200mm – and in Standard, Microwave, Emergency and Microwave and Emergency versions. It is CCT switchable between 3,000k, 4,000k and 6,000k colour temperatures and includes a multi-current driver to allow a choice between various wattages. There is a choice of four different wattages with each size of batten - 18-31W on the 1,200m batten and 23-40W on the 1,500m version. The incorporation of these features allows the installer to customise the luminaire and adjust the design to a client’s individual needs.
A brochure featuring the Inceptor Rio can be viewed on the Ovia website and the Scolmore Group app. It is also available in the new Issue 5 Ovia Catalogue.
View the video here –www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JogWuwnQDI www.oviauk.com
Unicrimp expands its Trade Tub offer
Unicrimp has recently extended its comprehensive range of Q-Crimp accessories with the addition of three new Trade Tubs. Comprising a variety of essential fixings and clips, the new tubs offer reliability and versatility to the installer and are ideal for any job - big or small.
These robust new tradesman tubs feature a resealable plastic lid and carry handle, and the tub itself is manufactured from recycled material.
The First Fix Kit Tub includes 400 x Red Wall Plugs, 400 x 8x1 ½ Screws and 100 x 20mm Open Grommets – bringing together all the elements in one handy tub to make back box essential installs that much easier for the contractor.
The Fire Alarm Installer Kit comprises 200 x Red 28 LSF P Clips, 200 x Red 32 LSF P Clips and 100 x Red 302 LSF Saddle Clips which are designed for use on mineral insulated or soft skin fire cables.
The Unicrimp catalogue which showcases the entire range of Q-Crimp accessories can be downloaded from the Unicrimp website, as well as from the Scolmore Group app. www.unicrimp.com
New Portable EV Charger Series from Axiom
The CED Electrical Group are proud to announce their introduction into the Electric Vehicle Market with a new range of Type 2 Portable Electric Chargers and Charging Cables, under the Axiom Brand.
EV Chargers are available with adjustable (8A/10A/13A) or fixed (13A) amperage, come with cable lengths of 7m or 10m and feature an LED screen display and supply of a UK power plug.
Please note cable lengths include 1.5m for mains plug leads with the balance of 5.5m or 8.5m respectively being the extent of the charging leads. 7m or 10m 7kw charging cables are also sold separately. The adjustable amperage versions offer substantial flexibility and efficient energy consumption by working with various power outlets and avoiding overloading of circuits by adjusting amperage to match available power. With poly carbonate bodies, the range has Ingress and Impact protection and the benefit of a two-year warranty period.
Further information please call 0208 503 8500 or visit the website.www.cedelectrical.co.uk
SWITCHING OFF
EMAIL lisa.peake@purplems.com TO SHARE YOUR HOBBY
Rally number five
Trevor Mudd, MD - Timber Division at the Independent Builders Merchant Group, talks to Editor Lisa Peake about taking on The Pavestone Rally for the fifth time to raise money for four charities. Trevor drove a 19-year-old London taxi across the 1,820 km route with friend and co-driver Peter Saunders and Peter’s son, Jack
Istarted sweeping the yard at Gridley Miskins in Walton-on-Thames as a summer holiday job when I was 15 and did so for eight summers through school and university, during which time Gridley Miskins rebranded as Harcros. I graduated with a BSc in Actuarial Science, but with few actuarial trainee jobs going, I joined the Harcros graduate training programme before becoming a branch manager at Tonbridge and then Crawley.
Having left Harcros, I saw an advert for the retirement sale of a West Surrey timber merchant. Timber merchant may have been something of an exaggeration, but in 1997 a deal was done and we acquired Placito & Son in Chertsey. In 2003 we also acquired PM Clack & Son in Great Bookham and then rebranded the business as Tiger Timber. In 2011, Tiger Timber became part of Chandlers Building Supplies and over the next eight years I served as a director of Chandlers.
Towards the end of 2019, Chandlers was sold to the Independent Builders Merchant Group and, after a brief spell in charge of paperclips, I became MD of the Timber Division in 2020.
It’s a great industry full of amazing people and I wouldn’t change a thing about my career to date. Working with a great team of people, I often say that my job isn’t to actually do anything; it’s to inspire, empower and support the rest of the team to be the best they can be. Occasionally though, I do have to do some real work too!
The Pavestone Rally
The Pavestone Rally brings together teams from across the construction supply chain. Each team (between two and four people) finds a roadworthy car for no more than £500 and decorates it. Then we all drive across Europe in fancy dress, carrying out silly challenges along the way and raising as much
Trevor, Peter and Jack on Day Three
cash as possible for our chosen charities. Oh, and did I mention the Carpool Karaoke?
Our team comprised of me, Peter Saunders (operations manager at Edmundson Electrical in Twickenham and recently best man at my wedding), and Peter’s son Jack Saunders. Alongside us were 32 other teams from right across the industry, representing various other merchants, manufacturers and distributors.
This rally series began with the Vado Rally in 2016. With Vado being a bathroom supplier, the manager of our bathroom showroom branch asked if I’d like to form a team with him. This led to our first victory – secured by our amazing cheese buying skills. Pavestone took over in 2017 and we were narrowly beaten by the Builders Merchants Federation. 2018 saw us in second place again, this time beaten by the Construction UK Negotiation Team. 2019 was an epic journey across the
Alps in a 35 year-old three-wheeled van, which resulted in another victory.
Every team raises money for the same charities, which are chosen by Pavestone after discussions with other stakeholders.
For 2023, our charities were the Rainy Day Trust, which is the only charity that exists solely to help people who have worked in the UK’s home improvement and enhancement industry; CRASH, the construction industry’s charity that helps homelessness and hospice organisations with their construction projects – creating places that care for people when they’re at their most vulnerable; Variety, which funds and delivers life-changing programs to give children and young people across the UK a better future; and The British Heart Foundation, which funds around £100 million of research each year into heart and circulatory diseases.
Driving across Europe in a clapped out banger, doing stupid things for a charity in fancy dress - sounds perfectly normal to me! But, apparently some people think we’re all a bit mad. Over the years I’ve met some great people, made friends and had so much fun. We’ve also raised a lot of money for some very worthwhile causes and had some amazing experiences.
A cab-tivating Journey
To prepare for the most recent challenge, we had to get the vehicle ready, sort out our fancy dress costumes, set up our fundraising page, and persuade friends, family, colleagues, suppliers, and anyone else we could think of to sponsor us.
The first thing we bought was a milk float but in the end we decided it needed too much work, so we sold it and found a taxi for £460 on eBay. One of our regular hauliers (Arrowsmith & Roberts) helped with collection and storage, as well as fitting a starter motor and a front passenger seat. Next stop was
Channel Commercials at Ashford who did a stunning red and black paint job. Then it was down to us for the finishing touches and to adapt the taxi to suit each day’s theme.
Because every day had a different fancy dress theme, we took it one stage further and made sure that the decoration of the car matched the theme. For Day One, we fitted a dance platform to the roof and set out to recreate the Spice Girls performance at the London 2012 Olympics, complete with red, white and blue smoke. For Day Two, we went from London 2012 to London 1910 with a Mary Poppins theme, which entailed building a pitched slate roof on top of the taxi, complete with a smoking chimney. Day Three was a McDonalds theme, including a giant three- dimensional set of Golden Arches made by Peter. Finally, on Day Four, we paid homage to everyone’s favourite delivery man – Postman Pat.
On most days we were down in the car park at 6am making modifications to the car before going back to the hotel for breakfast and changing into the day’s costume. Then we would meet up with the other teams at a checkpoint nearby to receive our challenges for the day. Each day, we knew in advance what our evening destination was going to be, but it’s only when we saw the challenges that we were able to start planning as there were usually some specific locations to visit enroute in order to score maximum points. The days were quite intense with a lot of driving to do, mixed in with trying to complete as many of the challenges as possible and going the extra mile in pursuit of bonus points! Challenges included drinking a beer from a stranger’s shoe; collecting an apple from an orchard; fitting as many hot dogs as possible into one team
member’s mouth; and stacking tinned food off the floor inside a supermarket higher than tallest team member.
Highlights for me included seeing each team appearing in the morning in their fancy dress. I really enjoyed the competitiveness of the teams as they try to outdo each other – usually in an attempt to get the biggest laugh. Another highlight was definitely driving up the Stelvio Pass in a taxi, as well as meeting complete strangers and engaging with them to complete daily challenges.
It’s Not About The Points
When we chose our team name for the most recent rally, “It’s Not About The Points,” it was a little bit tongue in cheek, but our team preparations were somewhat disrupted
Trevor making a grand entrance at the 2016 Vado Rally in Belgium, dressed as Eddie the Eagle
Channel Commercial’s red and black paint job
nine weeks before the rally when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I underwent a Robotic Assisted Radical Prostatectomy with five weeks to go. I had to cut short the recommended recovery time to make it to the start of the rally. Once we knew that I would be having the operation before the rally, Peter and I drafted in Jack to share the driving as taking the wheel of a twenty year old taxi, with dodgy power steering, over the Alps was definitely not on the list of things to be doing five weeks after major surgery. One in eight men will get prostate cancer, and if you are over 50, black, or your dad or brother had it, you’re at even higher risk. Prostate cancer is not always life-threatening, but when it is, the earlier you catch it the more likely it is to be cured. Check your risk in 30 seconds at https://prostatecanceruk. org/risk-checker
When we reached the end, I felt physically and mentally drained, but this was offset by a warm glow of pride and satisfaction. We came in sixth overall, which was better than we were expecting and we also came away with prizes for Best Dressed Team Day Two, and Best Dressed Team Overall as well as winning the K-Rend #thekfactor Carpool Karaoke and the Circulayo Recycling challenge. More importantly, we made new friends, met up with some old ones, and contributed £6,500 towards the total amount of £212,000 raised collectively by the participating teams.
Planning has already begun for the next Pavestone Rally which will take place in 2025. The plans will no doubt change and evolve many times over the coming months, but one thing that won’t change is the desire to raise even more cash. To achieve this we need more teams. If you think you’ve got what it takes to take part then watch out for entry details that will be appearing in the trade press later this year.
Time to view batteries as essential for home energy management
In the wake of zero rate VAT being introduced for batteries retrofitted after a solar PV installation, Griff Thomas, MD for GTEC, says we could do more to make this important energy management tool affordable for all – not just end users with a microgeneration system
In February electrical energy storage systems (EESS) took a step towards the ‘mainstream.’ Now, all batteries installed in UK homes alongside a microgeneration system benefit from a VAT exemption, regardless of whether they are fitted at the same time.
This equals the playing field for retrofit applications which previously would have been subject to the usual 20 per cent VAT, allowing homeowners to upgrade their system in a more affordable way, at a time to suit. Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments are usually far less than 50 per cent of the cost of importing electricity, so there are clear savings to be made by using a battery alongside solar PV. Hopefully more people will now take advantage of this marriage, which can bump self-consumption up to around 80 per cent.
Residential batteries also broaden the scope of heat pumps for harder-to-treat homes where higher flow-temperatures may be required, minimising running costs by allowing access to off-peak charging.
It seems at this stage, however, that ‘standalone’ batteries which could also contribute to reduced bills and better energy management, are not VAT exempt. Clever tariffs mean end users can benefit from far cheaper electricity by charging their EESS at night, for use during the day. Batteries also have an important role in supporting the national grid, so it seems only right that all energy storage schemes should be encouraged – for the good of us all.
Supporting
the national grid
In the future, home batteries will be an essential part of the meeting the UK’s power needs.
Energy providers want you to have them, hence forward-thinking companies like Octopus delivering attractive tariffs that incentivise their take-up. If you’ve got a battery, you can store up energy to avoid peak costs. That’s obviously good for you, but how does this help the grid?
Put simply, by encouraging consumers to charge when demand is low, there is more ‘live’ electricity available during peak hours. This not only helps to ensure everyone has the electricity they need, when they need it, it could lead to a reduced requirement to upgrade the grid. If everyone had solar panels, battery storage and an electric vehicle, self-generation would
account for a huge percentage of power usage, offsetting the inevitable increase in electricity requirement as we move away from fossil fuels.
Batteries for all
As the prices of batteries and hopefully electricity come down, and more energy providers adopt the flexible and technology specific tariffs that Octopus has been a champion of, in the future I expect most homes will have a battery of some sorts - in their houses, or on their drives.
The guidance on the VAT change includes ‘smart diverters,’ but clarification is needed for those who charge their cars directly from solar, plus the afore-mentioned battery users benefitting from smart tariffs without a microgeneration system. These groups may currently be in the minority, but capital cost reductions are an important way to incentivise take-up across the board.
Overall, the VAT exemption is a welcome step towards residential energy storage moving towards the mainstream and I see a time when we are all encouraged to have a battery. There is definitely more that could be done, however. Home energy storage should be viewed as a crucial part of a sustainable future.
Battery boom – get trained Incentives or not, batteries are definitely becoming more popular and any electricians reading this should consider upskilling. According to MCS, EESS has become the third most popular tech type to be installed with 4,400 of the 4,700 certified battery installations on its records completed last year. An additional 800 contractors were certified in 2023, up from just 50 in 2022.
GTEC delivers battery storage training from its centres throughout the UK. For more information, visit: www.gtec.co.uk.
