SPARKS Magazine Summer 2021 issue

THE ONLY MAGAZINE FOR STUDENT

& APPRENTICE ELECTRICIANS

SUMMER 2021

ng knowing li e fe e ic n a “It’s else has seen e n o e m o s t a th cognises re d n a rk o w r you the quality”

2021

WOLVERHAMPTON

OF THE YEAR

PLATINUM SPONSOR

COLLEGE

LE ARNER

R E N N WI T O M

T Y L E R

S N O I T A L U T A R CONG #SPARKS

L0Y21

EDITOR: SARAH EDWARDS sarah.edwards@sng-publishing.co.uk DIGITAL EDITOR: ALEX SOUTH alex.south@sng-publishing.co.uk SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: LEE OWEN design@sng-publishing.co.uk

WHAT A YEAR!

L

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: PATRICK BLORE patrick.blore@sng-publishing.co.uk

ockdown. Social distancing.

Vaccines. What a bizarre academic year it’s been but you learners are an impressive lot. You’ve turned up, shown real resilience and kept a passion for your trade despite life not being quite what you’d hoped for at times.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: HEATHER THORP heather.thorp@sng-publishing.co.uk OPERATIONS MANAGER: EMILY HILTON emily.hilton@sng-publishing.co.uk MANAGING DIRECTOR: ZOË TANNER zoe.tanner@sng-publishing.co.uk TECHNICAL CONTRIBUTOR: Mike Davies PRINTERS Stephens & George, Wales

GENERAL ENQUIRIES To subscribe to SPARKS Magazine call 0121 606 3016 or subscribe online at www.sparks-magazine.co.uk

DISCLAIMER SPARKS Magazine is published by SNG Publishing Ltd (SNG).

All content and artwork is © SNG Publishing Ltd or its contributors and SNG is a trade mark of SNG Publishing Ltd. No part of SPARKS Magazine may be copied, transmitted or published in any form or by any means without prior permission.

Although SNG has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it does not verify any claims or other information appearing in the advertisements contained in SPARKS Magazine. It therefore cannot accept any responsibility whatsoever for consequences that may arise from the content or artwork contained in SPARKS Magazine, including any errors or omissions or any opinions or advice given therein.

This publication and its content is not a substitute for professional advice on a particular matter.

We’ve made sure there’s loads of interesting stuff inside this issue including our Learner of The Year results. We’ve been blown away by the quality of your entries. We were determined not to let something like a global pandemic prevent our flagship competition going ahead and with some clever tweaks to ensure everything was covid secure and within social distance guidelines we pulled off one of our best ever!

Our Summer issue always marks the end of the academic year, and, for some of you, the end of your course. Keep doing what you’re doing – you’re all awesome!

Sarah Edwards Editor

“We were determined not to let something like a global pandemic prevent our flagship competition from going ahead” SEARCH FOR SPARKS MAGAZINE

Advertisements are accepted for publication in SPARKS Magazine only upon SNG Publishing Ltd standard terms of advertising.

© SNG Publishing Ltd, 2021

EDITOR'S NOTE 02

SPARKS I SU MME R 2 0 2 1 I E D I TO R ' S N OT E

FEATURES 02 Editor’s Note 05 Digital Column 07 20 Questions with Kimmy the Sparks

08

13

08 SPARKS Learner of the Year 2021 13 There’s an APP for that!

15 Learner of the Month Winners 16 The Business of Being an Electrician 17 Screwless vs Screw

LE ARNER OF THE YEAR

2021

19 It’s Important to be Green 20 IET Wiring Regulations

15

21 It’s All in the Lid! 22 Interview with Chris Randall 25 Training with Starrett 26 ‘Smart’ Fire Prevention 28 Make Smart Installation Easy 29 Click Smart+ Makes it Easy 30 What’s in your Toolbag? with @BristolSparky

35

07

32 This or That?

34 Apprentice Voice 35 New Charge Point Adapter Launches 36 The Return to Reality: Mixed Emotions 39

Student Survey

40 A ‘Smart’ Curriculum 56 Hall of Shame

EXERCISES

30

46 Earthing Arrangements and Protective Conductors

47 Initial Verification of Electrical Installations 48 Inspection and Testing of Electrical Installations

50 Electrical Instruments Readings 52 End of Year Revision 54 Electro-Technical Science 44 Wordsearch

CONTENTS C ON T E N T S I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

03

Become an Aico Expert Installer

Register today at www.aico.co.uk/becomean-expert-installer

Aico’s award winning Expert Installer training is a FREE scheme designed to provide Installers with all the information they need to select and install Fire and Carbon Monoxide alarm systems.

Modules include: Core Module - 60 minutes CPD Siting Sensor Types Installation

Testing and Maintenance Integration Standards and Regulations Gateway and Portal

All members of the Expert Installer training will be invited to join the brand new

This is an online, connected community built to support Expert Installers. Discover opportunities, interact, engage and share your knowledge to earn rewards. With monthly prize draws, you could win up to £500 and the chance to see the British Superbikes!

www.aico.co.uk | 01691 664100 | enquiries@aico.co.uk

CONNECT with fellow professionals LEARN new skills to earn points and receive prizes REWARD for the first 1,000 to join

Although life is slowly getting back to normal with colleges mostly reopened and welcoming you back into workshops, it’s inevitable that you have missed out on a big chunk of education during the prolonged lockdowns.

Luckily at SPARKS, we have a mass of learning resources for you to check out on our website. From ‘How-to’ and product videos, to online quizzes and the answers to the exercises you can find at the back of this magazine, just head over to sparks-magazine.co.uk and explore the ‘Student Resources’ tab.

LEARNER OF THE MONTH

But what about practical work? We’ve got you! Each month we run the SPARKS Learner of the Month Award over on our social media channels where you can tag #SPARKSLOTM in a photo of your practical work.

There are always spectacular prizes up for grabs including electrical bundles, top ends tools, vouchers and much more! The best part of it all? You can enter every single month and be in with a chance of winning.

So don’t forget to snap a pic when you finish up on a job.

F O L L O W

SEARCH FOR SPARKS MAGAZINE

GET IN TOUCH!

DIGITAL COLUMN

MET1000

ALL IN ONE TRUE RMS ELECTRICAL TESTER

MET1000

True RMS Electrical Tester

EN 61243-3

Why carry more?

All in One True RMS Electrical Tester

uk.megger.com uksales@megger.com

■ LED & LCD Display with self-test ■ Detachable Test Probes ■ AC/DC Voltage to 1000V ■ 200A AC measurement ■ True RMS on ACV/ACA ■ Inrush Current ■ Phase Rotation ■ Single pole test ■ Data Hold ■ Measures voltage without batteries ■ Complies with IEC/EN 61243-3:2014 ■ IP65

20 ur career Biggest influence on yo gly Fat Sam the Spark stron in my ss gre pro to me influenced electrical journey.

Describe an electrician in three words?

Intelligent, cheeky, magical.

terrible at?

What job would you be y work.

Installing conduit and tra

QUESTIONS Kimmy The Sparks, 25, is a fully qualified electrician and tester. She is notorious for the crazy hours she works covering emergency call outs in the Social Housing sector.

Worst part of your job?

Dead mice and insects in intake cupboards.

Are you usually early or Late. Oops.

late?

Favourite franchise?

SUBWAY.

ee words Describe yourself in thr Realistic, funny and fiery!

Top three bucket list places/dreams?

Cornwall, Jamaica and publishing a book.

Which is your favourite holid ay?

Winter solstice and Christmas .

have? ld you like to ou w ill sk t ha W alise be able to visu I would love to ). ia as nt Apha things (I have

Coffee or tea?

Tea - Oat milk, one and a quarter sugars.

What superpower would you like?

Teleportation.

What's your claim to fame?

Talking, talking, talking and not running out of things to say!

Favourite influencer?

Doctor Electric and his apprentice Adam!

Love them and their YouTube Channel!

Favourite tool brand?

Always JCB!!!

@kimmythesparks

Cats or dogs?

Cats.

What's for lunch today?

Bagels and chickpea/ sweetcorn/avocado salad.

Childhood dream job?

Psychologist.

Best part of your job?

Shiny new tools!

Eggs - fried, poached or scrambled?

Fried.

We’ve got a winner!

It’s been an awesome journey and we’ve seen some incredible work.

In order to keep to social distancing guidelines, this year’s competition took a slightly different structure but was just as challenging for the learners!

ROUND ONE:

LE ARNER

Level 2 and Level 3 learners from across the country were chosen by their lecturers to represent their college in Round One, in which they completed an online written test to showcase their knowledge.

OF THE YEAR

2021

LIVE FINAL The six regional winners undertook a 5-hour practical test with a technical expert judging their work for the chance to become the SPARKS Learner of the Year 2021.

James Gaskell Farnborough College of Technology Ieuan Jones Coleg Gwent Tom Tyler City of Wolverhampton College Adam Pitcher Oldham College Simeon Farrar York College

ROUND TWO: The top two scorers from each of the six competition regions completed a series of fault-finding exercises and participated in a ‘Professional Discussion’ video call for the chance to represent their region at the live final.

08

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I LOY 2 0 2 1

Will Durston Weston College

James Gaskell Farnborough College of Technology

SPARKS JUDGES: NAPIT’s Technical Team are the official judges of the competition, assisting with the creation of the assessments for the learners, leading the Professional Discussions and scoring the learners’ work in all rounds. Head judge is Trevor Milner, Technical Manager at NAPIT.

In addition to Trevor, the judges for the finals were: Geoff Brittain David Scully Gary Linney

Ieuan Jones Coleg Gwent

SPARKS SPONSORS:

Tom Tyler City of Wolverhampton College

Official Tool Sponsor

Adam Pitcher Oldham College

Official Van Sponsor

Tom Gillam from Schneider Electric said:

Simeon Farrar York College

“We’re delighted to be supporting such an important competition.

During the pandemic, the UK’s electrical students and apprentices have suffered more than most. The SPARKS competition provides us with the opportunity to incentivise and reward the community and inspire more to follow. We’re looking forward to seeing the potential and talent of the next generation of electricians.”

Will Durston Weston College

PRIZES

£1 ,000 CASH!

We had some fantastic career-boosting prizes, including £1,000 cash for the winner and £500 for the runner-up from Schneider Electric plus some awesome products donated by the sponsors.

LOY 2021 I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

09

MEET THE RUNNER UP Simeon Farrar, Level 3 at York College, was the runner-up of this year’s competition. Here’s what he had to say.

SPARKS: Has taking part in the competition changed how you feel about your abilities?

Simeon: It’s given me more confidence in myself because you haven’t got anyone to ask and have to work off your own knowledge to do it all.

On 21st May, after three rounds of competition and some incredible demonstrations of ability, Tom Tyler, a Level 3 apprentice at City of Wolverhampton College, was announced as our SPARKS Learner of the Year 2021. We caught up with him to ask what winning the competition meant to him.

SPARKS: What was the best thing about the competition?

Simeon: I think the practical in the final. I enjoy doing practical.

Some parts were complicated, and some parts I thought were easy, but probably the practical final was my favourite part.

SPARKS: What would you say to people considering entering in 2022?

“The competition has given me validation that I am good at the stuff I do and I’ve enjoyed it as well”

Simeon: Do it. It’s a good experience, you learn a lot of stuff. If you get the chance, take it. It’s given me validation that I am good at the stuff I do and I’ve enjoyed it as well.

It’s shown me that I’ve taken onboard the learning, made my work good and also how much I enjoy electrical work.

I did enjoy electrical work before but I just enjoy it a lot more now.

SIMEON FARRAR YORK COLLEGE

10

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I LOY 2 0 2 1

SPARKS: How does it feel to win the competition?

Tom: It hasn’t quite sunk in yet but it feels amazing so far.

It’s a nice feeling knowing that someone else has seen your work and recognises the quality, and appreciates the hard work that went into it.

SPARKS: How did you hear about the competition?

Tom: It was at college. They had the SPARKS magazines and said, ‘look, we’re after people to put forward.’ My tutor said to me, ‘I reckon you’d do well at this. Do you want to go for it?’ I agreed and that’s how it started.

SPARKS: What was the competition experience like?

Tom: It wasn’t what I was expecting looking at previous years because obviously we’re having to do it all differently but the way it was done didn’t feel like things were rushed or someone had to make last minute changes - it felt like it was done well.

MEET THE WINNER TOM TYLER

“It’s a nice feeling knowing that someone else has seen your work and recognises the quality, and appreciates the hard work that went into it”

SPARKS: What made you choose electrical as a career?

it’s good. It’s beyond what they would necessarily expect from people.

Tom: I chose electrical from a young age because I’ve always been wiring bits up and playing with batteries and little lightbulbs so it was a natural progression. Whilst electronics are fun to play with and I’ve still got that as something I do, I realised that with the electricals I could make a career out of doing something that I enjoyed. It felt like the obvious thing for me to do.

SPARKS: What are you going to do with the prizes?!

Tom: Use them to further my career and push myself further. I’ll be able to install stuff and do it better and quicker. I’ll enjoy using my new toys!

Andy Spencer, City of Wolverhampton College said:

SPARKS: Why should people enter the 2022 competition?

Tom: It gives you an opportunity to show off what you do day-to-day on a national scale, challenge yourself, and push yourself out of your comfort zone.

It’s reassuring that you’ve had other people look at your work, judge it, and they think

“We enter the students into the SPARKS competition because it's a national competition with national coverage, with magazines that every student in a college, somewhere in the country, will be able to see.”

LOY 2021 I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

11

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT! Can you fix the electrics and get the gig back on track? National Electrotechnical Training (NET) has launched a new game to help apprentices test their skills and knowledge.

> ENTERTAINING BUT EDUCATIONAL ‘Amped Up’ gives you an entertaining but educational look at electrical tasks, allowing you to get hands on and practise some key areas you’ll need to master during your apprenticeship.

During the game you’ll work through activities such as safe isolation, protective devices knowledge, Ohm’s law and R1 + R2 testing.

How well will you get on? Prompts and on-screen guidance will help you through each stage. But be warned – you won’t be given all the answers and time penalties are applicable!

Can you make it onto the leader board? You can see how you score and compare with your friends.

To introduce a little friendly competition, you’ll get a higher score for completing each task without skipping a stage or pressing the help icons.

Amped Up is available to download from Apple and Google Play.

Visit www.netservices.org.uk/amped-up for a direct link to the app stores.

This game is just for fun! It’s not an exact simulation of electrical installation techniques, and tasks have been adapted for gameplay purposes.

NET is responsible for the AM2S assessment that you’ll undertake at the end of your apprenticeship – to find out more about the AM2S visit www.netservices.org.uk/am2s

T R A I N I N G I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

13

Studying for a career in the electrical industry?

Find out how the IET can help

As co-publisher of BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations), we have lots of information and guidance available to help you get into the electrical industry.

From informative articles on different ways into industry and the most relevant qualifications, to videos designed to help de-mystify certain areas of the Wiring Regulations, our website is full of useful resources for electrical students, including: – – – –

Books for students, such as the Student’s Guide to the IET Wiring Regulations The Student’s Guide video series including topics such as Safe Isolation and Risk Assessment Wiring Matters magazine articles to help you with your studies A job profile bank detailing some of the many different career options available to you when you qualify

Visit theiet.org/elec-students to find out more

LEARNER OF

THE MONTH HOW IT WORKS

T

he award, which is open to all full-time learners and apprentices, aims to celebrate the amazing work that upcoming talent in the industry is producing.

There is a prize usually worth £100+ for the winner each month – and you will feature in our online Hall of Fame and in the next issue of SPARKS!

LEARNER OF THE MONTH

> BETWEEN THE 1ST AND 20TH OF A MONTH Tag us in a new photo of your best work on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter – use #SPARKSLOTM. Any entries later than the 20th will roll over into the following month.

> BETWEEN 21ST AND 23RD OF A MONTH We will choose our favourite entries (up to a maximum of eight).

> ONE WEEK BEFORE THE END OF THE MONTH We will share the top entries on the @sparksmagazineuk Instagram page to allow our followers and your friends, family, clients and colleagues to vote for your photo.

> ON THE LAST DAY OF THE MONTH We will reveal who has got the most votes and therefore won!

For T&Cs head to our website.

DECEMBER WINNER

JANUARY WINNER

FEBRUARY WINNER

MATTHEW TAYLOR

ADAM WALKER

MATT BARKER

NEWARK COLLEGE, LINCOLN COLLEGE GROUP

OLDHAM COLLEGE

KENDAL COLLEGE PLACE SECURED

“I was really happy to win as I’ve only been studying since September. In my post I was doing some power circuits, a ring final circuit with a spur from a junction box and there was also a cooker circuit and a fused connection unit e.g. for a boiler.”

In January, Adam was crowned as the SPARKS Learner of the Month for the second time. He said, “It was such an achievement to win the award the first time, but to win it for a second time strengthens my belief that I can become a great electrician. It also validates the pride and care I take in my work knowing it is recognised by one of the biggest electrical magazines in the UK.”

Matthew, who currently doesn’t have an apprenticeship, will be using his new Megger Proving Unit along with his other tools at college. He’s keen to get fully qualified and one day open up his own business.

Adam says he’ll be putting his Luceco prizes to good use!

15-year-old Matt has been doing work with JE Electrical around school work over the past 6 months. He has a secured place to start his Level 3 advanced apprenticeship course at Kendal College.

Matt said, “It feels great to win the award! I’m so grateful for the opportunity and also a massive well done to the other entrants involved too as their work looked amazing!”

Matt explained that he will use his Ansell Lighting prize to finally have a wirelessly switched LED system in his room.

“Tag us in a new photo of your best work on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter – use #SPARKSLOTM”

L E A RN E R OF T H E M ON T H WI N N E RS I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

15

THE BUSINESS OF BEING AN

ELECTRICIAN

Electricians are often sole traders or owners of small companies. Owning your own business is a positive thing but how many electricians have formal training or qualifications in business management? Third party help is available, especially when it comes to finance and accounting – it’s essential to have a level of business knowledge when owning your own company.

T

o help with this, Schneider Electric have released a ‘Build My Business’ e-book full of handy tips and advice for electricians on setting up, running and growing an effective business. > THE E-BOOK CAN HELP WITH THE FOLLOWING: ▸ Initial steps - business plans and getting the right insurance in place ▸ Financing the company budgeting, managing tax and collecting payment from customers

“Satisfied customers lead to recommendations, which lead to more business”

▸ Generating new custom digital promotion, creating a strong website, email campaigns and direct mail ▸ Customer etiquette - how much thought should be put into tone of voice and body language? Should you always remove your shoes in someone’s home?

Satisfied customers lead to recommendations, which lead to more business ▸ Plus plenty of other tips on how to grow an electrical company, including branching out into the smart home space

At Schneider Electric, we know that being an electrician is not just a job, it’s a craft. There’s much more to master than the core electrical work, and we’re proud to support at every stage of the journey. Download the e-book today to make sure you’re prepared for the real business of being an electrician! https://go.schneider-electric.com/EMEA_Electrician_UK_202101_ Manage-You-Business_Manage_Your_Business_MF-Page.html

SCREWLESS VS SCREW

Traditional screws or screwless technology, which do you prefer?

The team at WAGO thinks the choice is simple.

“Ideal for inaccessible areas”

SAFETY

No need to tig hten a potentia lly live screw with a screwdriver helping to prot ect your life.

SIMPLE SOLUTION nductor to Simply strip the co and push in the required length r. or operate the leve

REWS NO LOOSE SC ing over Screws loosen ggest bi time are the al fires. ic tr cause of elec

FAST crews r than s e. e t s a f 5% Up to 7 ou valuable tim y in v sa g

MAINTENANCE FREE oards, as such as under floorb Ideal for inaccessible are . ets bin ca or kitchen behind plastered walls

75%

NO NEED TO S E

T TORQUE No risk of over -screwing and breaking the conductor.

Screwless conn ectors apply a constant forc e on the connector to ac hieve the perfect connec tion.

N-PROOF VIBRATIO as with ne in are o d n u e s or om Will not c on such as vehicle ti high vibra ry. machine

N O I T C RE D U I M E IN T

For more info, visit: www.wago.com

WI RI N G AC C E S SORI E S I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

17

When the average road is anything but average The new Caddy Cargo with 4MOTION all wheel drive For whatever comes next 4MOTION available as an option. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk

IT’S IMPORTANT TO BE GREEN The electrical engineering sector is our best hope to reach Net Zero Carbon, but only if the industry learns the right skills. Luke Osborne, ECA Energy and Emerging Technologies Solutions Advisor, discusses what you as industry students need to know to go green and get ahead of the game.

> LOW TO NO CARBON: Installers should learn to design and roll out ‘active’ technologies that provide ‘low to no carbon’ energy solutions (these are different from ‘passive’ energy solutions like insulation).

They include: ▸ Solar panels ▸ Wind energy

> THE DRIVE TO LOW CARBON Renewable energy, heat pumps, electric vehicle charging, smart systems and energy storage all require specialist design and installation skills, but employers say that, right now, there is ‘insufficient training’ for installers to deliver all these low carbon technologies.

With the right skills, many more electrical businesses can pivot into these technologies, as is already happening in the growing arena of EV charging.

Other low carbon technologies, such as heat pumps, are also being lined up.

▸ Heat pumps ▸ EV charging points ▸ Energy storage ▸ Smart monitoring and wireless systems

Despite all the many challenges facing electrical and other engineering services, business and society in general, there has never been a more exciting time to be a part of the electrotechnical industry.

“… there has never been a more exciting time to be a part of the electrotechnical industry” Visit www.eca.co.uk/getzerocarbondone for more on ECA’s Net Zero policy position, and a series of video shorts outlining why the electrotechnical and engineering services sector needs to build the right skills for the future.

N E T Z E RO CA RB ON I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

19

IET WIRING REGULATIONS SOME PROPOSALS FOR AMENDMENT 2 Each new edition of the Wiring Regulations brings about improvements in safety standards for our electrical installations, and the recent draft for public comment on BS7671 IET Wiring Regulations (Sept 2020) is no exception. Here we look at some of the proposals from the draft document. > PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTRIC SHOCK There will no longer be an option to use a risk assessment to justify omitting 30mA RCD protection on certain socket outlets (not exceeding 32A) in premises other than dwellings.

This means that all types of installations (commercial & industrial) will be treated the same as dwellings and all sockets (up to and including 32A ratings) will require protection by 30mA RCD. > UNWANTED TRIPPING OF RCDS Grouping several circuits together on one or two RCDs in a Dual RCD consumer unit may not meet the requirements of Amendment 2.

The use of RCBOs for each individual final circuit in domestic installations will be proposed as a specific means of avoiding unwanted tripping, because it keeps power flowing to healthy circuits.

> DIVISION OF THE INSTALLATION The use of RCBOs is in addition to the existing requirements for subdividing final circuits which require unwanted tripping to be avoided. There are several existing regulations to consider: 314.1 - Division of the installation into individual circuits to avoid danger from unwanted tripping of RCDs. 531.3.2 – Avoiding tripping due to PE currents - this requires the designer to ensure that PE currents from connected equipment are no more than 9mA on any 30mA RCD. Grouping several circuits together on one or two 30mA RCDs will not meet these regulations. > OVERVOLTAGE PROTECTION IN SINGLE UNIT DWELLINGS In single unit dwellings overvoltage protection will be required where the value of the loss of equipment and damage to the installation justifies the cost of the SPD. > ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT IS DEFINED AS… Any item for such purposes as generation, conversion, transmission, distribution or utilisation of electricity such as machines, transformers, apparatus, measuring instruments, protective devices, wiring systems, accessories, appliances & luminaires.

For more information, visit www.electrium.co.uk

20

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I WIRIN G RE G UL AT I ON S

IT’S ALL IN THE LID!

We know you like to hear about brand new products so that’s why we’re excited to tell you about WISKA’s COMBI 304 - WISKA’s first circular junction box.

> THE COMBI 304 IP66/67 rated, the COMBI 304 has 4 x M20 threaded membrane entries. It is available empty or with 3 x WAGO 221 3-pole lever connectors. One of the biggest changes in the COMBI 304 (compared to the rest of the COMBI range) is the lid. The lid is flat providing an endless list of possible retrofit options (sensors, camera etc).

The lid has a bayonet cap, (no screws to lock).

Securely mount the box onto your required surface using its ridged external lugs. Then place the lid on, a quarter turn locks the lid into place. A unique hook closing mechanism prevents unauthorised access (a tool is required to gain entry once closed).

COMBI 304 FEATURES > Size: ø 82 x 57 mm (mounting distance 90 mm)

“The COMBI 304 is perfectly suited for architectural and retro design projects”

> IP66/67 > 4 X M20 threaded membrane entries > Mounted using external lugs > UV and Ozone resistant > Available in 3 colours: light grey, black and white.

For more information, visit www.wiska.co.uk

INTERVIEW

CHRIS RANDALL

“I love the satisfaction of completing a complex or long job”

Winner of the 2011 Learner of the Year.

“My boss put me in my own van when I was starting my 2nd year in college.

I thrived on the experience and pressure. I think this was a big part in how I’ve got to where I am today!”

For more information, visit www.chrismrandallltd.co.uk

LE ARNER OF THE YEAR

2011

22

W

e’ve had a chat with Chris Randall - winner of the 2011 Learner of the Year – to see what’s changed for him in the past ten years. Chris told us, “I set up my own business four years ago and have never looked back. The company has grown quickly - we now employ five electricians and apprentices. We carry out all kinds of work, from an extra socket for someone up to large commercial and agricultural jobs."

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I IN T E RV IE W

SPARKS Magazine: Why did you decide on this trade?

Chris Randall: I didn’t really enjoy school, and I don’t think the teachers enjoyed me being there either really so I was destined for a trade of some sort! I was helping my dad wire a new cattle shed one weekend and I was amazed by the fuse box and how it worked. It was from then on I wanted to be an electrician.

SPARKS: What advice would you give someone just starting out?

CR: Write things down! I worked as an electrician in New Zealand for nearly a year and had to write three things I learnt in a diary every day. For the first few days it seemed pointless, but after about two weeks I started to refer back to it. Even to this day it’s in the van!

SPARKS: What tool could you not do without?

CR: I always have a Stanley knife, tape measure and tape in my pocket.

One of the main tools I use all day every day is a Sharpie marker pen - as odd as it sounds it makes everyone’s life so much easier.

When 1st fixing or even changing a light switch, I write on every cable, whether it’s a switch wire, feed in, feed out or two-way. The other tool I’m lost without is a paint tin handle.

I first used it in New Zealand as a hook as we didn’t have a set of cable rods. Since then it’s been used pretty much every day!

SPARKS: What changed when you won the SPARKS Learner of the Year award in 2011?

CR: My confidence was a big thing that changed for me. I was lucky enough to be put in my own van and running my own small jobs during my 2nd year in college. Although I knew what I was doing I always questioned myself. After winning the Learner of the Year competition I had the extra boost I needed.

SPARKS: How does social media affect your business? What do you use it for?

CR: I rarely use social media for business or personal things. We get quite a lot of messages from people asking for quotes and work to be done through social media channels though - it is something I need to improve on as I think this is a huge source of work if done correctly.

SPARKS: What do you wish you knew more about?

CR: PLC controls. I have come across them a few times and managed to muddle my way through, but I’ve booked myself on a PLC course so I’ll have a better understanding soon!

SPARKS: What’s your favourite / least favourite thing about your job?

CR: I think one of my favourite parts of the job is the satisfaction of completing a complex or long job the relief that all the hard work and

long hours were worth it. My least favourite part I think would be when you’re in a small, dusty, hot and insulated attic, crawling around on your stomach, where the customer has no idea what you’re going through just to add an extra socket!

SPARKS: Do you have a career plan?

CR: I want to continue to learn, go on courses like PLC controls, CAD design, fire alarm installation and commissioning. My main drive is to keep growing our business.

SPARKS: What’s the best thing about your job?

CR: I thrive on the stress and pressure of jobs! I enjoy engaging with customers, especially when they give you the chance to come up with a unique lighting design or just say ‘do whatever you want, we trust you’!

SPARKS: Biggest influence on you and why?

CR: The first electrician I was with while doing my apprenticeship was and still is someone I look up to, even to this day. If I’m unsure of a cable run or something similar I’ll ask myself, ‘how would Martyn get around this’. He was a great teacher with high standards. Everything had to be perfect, even down to how you dress the cables in the back of a socket. He would also randomly check bits I’d done so I couldn’t get away with anything!

Chris recently installed a solarpowered WiFi camera at this famous Welsh wall.

> WHAT I’VE LEARNED: Not every job goes to plan, doesn’t matter how long you’ve being doing it, or how good you are. Some jobs just don’t go to plan! Don’t let this get you down, use it to make sure you learn something from it!

I N T E RV I E W I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

23

The best retrofit smart home solution for the professional installer.

Lightwave is revolutionising the smart home installation market by making products that offer class-leading performance whilst providing greater value to both the installer and their clients.

•

UK based manufacturer of smart dimmers, sockets, relays and more.

•

Retrofit solution can be installed into any home using existing wiring.

•

Industry leading 868 MHz wireless protocol for superb range and reliability.

•

Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit.

*photos courtesy of

Benefits •

Professional product training via free webinar

•

Preferred pricing

•

New customer referrals

•

Marketing support and monthly newsletter

•

Feature on our installer map

•

Dedicated support hotline

lightwave_pro on instagram

Build automations for your clients using the Link Plus and Lightwave App*, allowing you to create timers & schedules, wireless multi-way switching, call-for-heat and any other logic based automations.

Scan this code to sign up to our free webinar!

Check out our website or give us a call to learn more: www.lightwaverf.com/PRO

0121 573 0281

*Lightwave Link Plus required for voice and app control.

TRAINING

WITH STARRETT Without fully understanding how a product works, an installer can never appreciate its capabilities. That’s why product training is vital. > WHY?

> WHAT?

By attending training sessions, you will benefit by learning not only how to use a product correctly but also which is most suitable for which application plus hints and tips that will save time and money.

Training can be of any kind relevant to the products and can be delivered by any appropriate method.

For example, it could include: > On-site training – face-to-face product demonstration and explanation

Scan the QR code for information.

SCAN HERE

> Online training - power points, pdfs, videos, live events and social media > Online tech support for cutting solutions - online appointments service

> FAST CUT BI-METAL HOLE SAW > Cuts through multiple materials > 30% more gullet

> DEEP CUT BI-METAL HOLE SAW > For solid materials

> Complete hole saw assembly

> Extra cobalt HSS tooth

> Ideal for use with battery drill

> Extended cutting

> Gives a cleaner hole finish more holes per battery charge

> Extra cobalt HSS edge tooth

> Safety stop collar built in

> Recommended cutting depth up to 13mm

> HINTS AND TIPS The slower the hole saw revolves the faster you will drill the hole!

> CORDLESS SMOOTH CUT HOLE SAW

> Recommended cutting depth 3mm

> HINTS AND TIPS Allow the saw time when drilling into tubes. If you force it, you risk the chance of snagging and possible damage to the teeth.

> HINTS AND TIPS If the spring does not automatically eject the slug remove the saw from the drill and tap it on a hard surface.

> CARBIDE TIPPED MULTI-PURPOSE HOLE SAW > Carbide tipped for outstanding cutting performance > Extra cutting depth > Designed for smooth cutting with minimal heat build-up > Deep gullet for easy slug removal

> HINTS AND TIPS For drilling through a ceramic tile.

With a slow RPM, allow the saw to plane off the tile glaze then follow through with ease.

T R A I N I N G I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

25

‘SMART’ FIRE PREVENTION

When it comes to fire, prevention is better than cure. The government’s commitment to new legislation which requires electrical installations in the private rented sector to be inspected and tested at least every five years is a move towards guaranteeing safety to all tenants. Sean Miller, Electrician Programme Manager at Schneider Electric explains why this is a good thing for us all.

I

“The announcement also represents an opportunity for electricians to get more work and grow their skills”

t’s important to be thinking one step ahead. Simply having a fire response plan is not enough. A fire prevention strategy, that utilises the latest technology, is the key to ensuring fast detection and a rapid response. > TRAILBLAZING TECHNOLOGY

The danger of landlords only performing the bare minimum to protect their buildings is that, should a fire start from a source they haven’t accounted for, the loss and disruption could be devastating.

For maximum protection, individuals need reliable, innovative products to prevent a fire from starting in the first place. The pending legislation will add to this safety from the start. It will require landlords to use qualified electricians when installing, repairing and maintaining systems, benefitting both landlords and tenants by reducing electrical issues.

The announcement also represents an opportunity for electricians to get more work and grow their skills. Moving forward, we expect to see more electricians securing long running contracts with landlords, across multiple properties to meet the ongoing demand. This will go hand-inhand with ensuring tenants feel safe where they live.

> FOLLOW THE RIGHT STEPS Fire is never an inevitability.

When you follow the right approach to electrical fire prevention with the best tools, a fire can be put out before it even has a chance to begin. The government announcement is a great first step in improving safety standards across the entire sector and ensuring all properties receive the qualified attention they require.

Scan the QR code for information.

SCAN HERE

Supporting the industry and your business through

CHALLENGING TIMES

EXPERT GUIDANCE

CONTRACTUAL AND COMMERCIAL ISSUES

WEBINARS

ONSITE HEALTH PROTECTION ISSUES

NEWS UPDATES

AND MORE

EMPLOYMENT ISSUES

See how ECA can support your business

www.eca.co.uk/member-support Terms & conditions apply and are subject to change Registered in England: Company Number 143669. Covering England, Wales & NI.

Stay supported. Stay informed.

MAKE SMART INSTALLATION EASY Installing a smart system doesn’t have to be tricky. Find out how you can set up a cool smart system quickly and easily with BG Smart Sockets. > WHY BG SMART SOCKETS? BG Smart Sockets are a great choice if your customer: > Is looking for a quick and simple way to set up their smart home system > Already has smart products in their home > Wants to control their smart products by touch, voice or mobile.

“… BG Smart Sockets are a great option for setting up a home smart system quickly and easily”

> SAME WIRING BG Smart Sockets can be used to replace existing wall sockets without any wiring or installation changes. Simply fit the new mounting box, connect the earth, neutral and live terminals and you’ll be ready to go.

> QUICK SET UP > CONTROL YOUR DEVICES BY

Once the socket is live, all you need to do is download the BG Home App to your Android or Apple device and follow the stepby-step instructions. By creating an account and adding devices, you can start to build a whole smart system quickly and easily.

MOBILE

VOICE

TOUCH

> TOP QUALITY FINISH Once everything is connected up, your customer can control their smart products by touch, voice or via their device. With a subtle, stylish design and a simple setup, BG Smart Sockets are a great option for setting up a home smart system quickly and easily.

For more info visit: bgelectrical.uk/smart-sockets

CLICK SMART+ MAKES IT EASY Like cutting edge smart technology? Then we have exciting news for you! Scolmore have developed a brand new range of smart products under the Click Smart+ brand. The range has been created to simplify and streamline connected home products – lighting controls, smart sockets, security cameras and sensors.

T

he range utilises Zigbee technology – one of the most widely adopted smart home technologies.

Zigbee certified devices require the Click Smart+ Hub and communicate with each other using a mesh network which creates multiple pathways for the connection of multiple smart home devices without compromising signal and communication range. A key benefit of Zigbee and the new Click Smart+ range is that there is no need for a signal repeater, as all the devices have repeaters built in.

“Installation is simple and flexible, with no additional cables or wall cutting”

Installation is simple and flexible, with no additional cables or wall cutting required, making it ideal for existing or newly constructed buildings.

Click Smart+ is designed to bring convenience, security, energy saving and comfort to the home. The bespoke Click Smart+ App gives householders ultimate control of the smart devices, which can also be operated through voice control in conjunction with a smart speaker.

The range comprises the Smart Gateway Hub – the control centre of all devices, one-gang and twogang smart sockets, a plug-in smart socket, switching and dimming receivers, camera, PIR sensor, window, and door sensor, plus a temperature and humidity sensor.

For full details of the new Click Smart+ range and its applications go to www.click-smart.com/home

?

DID YOU KNOW? INTRODUCING CLICK SMART+

SCOLMORE IS MAKING AVAILABLE SOME CPD TRAINING, WHICH WILL BE ACCESSIBLE ON REQUEST. IT WILL COVER AN OVERVIEW OF SMART SYSTEMS, THE ADVANTAGES, GREEN CREDENTIALS AND DETAILS ON COMMUNICATION PROTOCOLS AND MESH NETWORKS.

SM A R T H OM E I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

29

WHAT’S IN YOUR TOOL BAG?

> FACOM SCREWDRIVERS

LAWRENCE BROWN AKA BRISTOLSPARKY After numerous failed attempts to get into the police force Lawrence Brown, aka BristolSparky, fell into the industry when his girlfriend’s dad mentioned the firm he worked for was taking on apprentices.

He tells us, “I started my apprenticeship at the BBC in 2007 performing mainly commercial work consisting of lots of 3 phase distribution board replacements, galv conduit, trunking and tray work around the BBC Bristol premises.”

After many years he left to join a smaller company so he could practise a broader range of electrical work. He did pub refurbishments around the country, electric vehicle charging points, domestic, fire alarm and shops/office refurbishments.

> VETO PRO PAC

In 2020 he started his own company. So far it’s been going well!

“I've found the apprentices that went on to become great sparks were the ones who asked questions. They wanted to do what I was doing rather than handing me tools!”

@bristolsparky

HOT TOOL TIP I DON’T EVER WORK LIVE, SO I THINK ABOUT OTHER STYLES OF GRIPS FOR MY HAND TOOLS, THEY HAVEN’T ALL GOT TO BE VDE, I FIND SOMETHING COMFORTABLE TO USE

> THE BROCKET

> WERA TOOL CHECK PLUS A great little addition to my tool bag, it has all the little connections and adapters you need for every day ‘sparkin’ plus an all-in-one, compact clip-on carry case. I love any tool that you can use for a variety of things - makes my job easier and more efficient.

I love innovation. This tool came out in 2020 and has completely changed how I work when doing conduit 1st fix. Simple, yet brilliant design. Whilst there are other tools available, I find myself reaching for this one every time.

> KNIPEX STEP CUT Small. Compact. Does the job with ease. I love when a new tool comes out that makes my job easier and more comfortable when I’m doing it!

Designed to cut through multi-stranded cable with ease, this makes cutting standard 25mm meter tails a dream.

> WIHA MULTIDRIVER The most useful tool to have in your pocket day-to-day. One driver, a large comfortable grip and with multiple blades for every electrical connection.

> BAHCO MINI CROWBAR

> KNIPEX SHEARS I love these shears. They work in a different way to cutters as they don’t squash or distort the cable that you are cutting. I use these for 1st fix as they cut cleaner and quicker in my opinion.

Lightweight and comfortable, what more could you want in a tool?!

Good, useful tools DON’T NEED TO BE EXPENSIVE. But having the right tool for the right job is essential. I’ve had this one for years, it’s always in my bag to help pry things up/ off/away and saves me having to use my big flat screwdriver.

T H S I A H T T OR Ever wondered how you compare to other Sparkies with your on-site preferences?

We took to Instagram to find out what the majority prefers in a game of This or That.

Which would you choose?

TOOLBOX

58% TEA

37

%

42% COFFEE

63

%

FREE TOOLS FOR LIFE

FREE VAN NOW

CHATTY CUSTOMERS

QUIET CUSTOMERS

HOUSEHOLD WORK

INDUSTRIAL WORK

REPAIR

NEW INSTALL

THEORY

PRACTICAL

54% 37% 49%

14% 9

32

TOOLBAG

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I T H IS O R T H AT ?

%

46% 63% 51% 86% 91

%

#HelloPro

Britain’s favourite pipe carrying product for electricians, just got better.

• New - Optional PVC lining.

• New - O-ring seal to reduce water ingress.

• New - Integral lock housed inside the tube.

• New - Aerodynamic nose cone.

• Plus - Dual openings. Independently crash tested.

Industry leading capacity.

Available now!

Rh no

T. 0151 319 2931 E. sales@rhinoproducts.co.uk

PR

www.rhinoproducts.co.uk

D U C T S

®

WORKING FOR YOU

RHINO_HelloPro 178mmx125mm PipeTube Pro Advert.indd 1

Resettable Call Points

& Push Buttons

Introducing....

NEW

The COMBI 304

• Indoor & Outdoor models • Momentary, Key-to-ReSet & Pneumatic • Suitable for a variety of applications

  www.sti-emea.com  info@sti-emea.com  01527 520 999

WISKA UK Ltd Unit 7, Hurling Way, St Columb Major Business Park St Columb Major, Cornwall, TR9 6SX 01208 816062 01208 816708 info@wiska.co.uk

We asked learners and those already in the trade to tell us the issues that are affecting them, with experts across the industry helping to answer questions and provide advice. Got something that's concerning you?

Get in touch and we’ll get your question answered!

ANONYMOUS

@JACK.SPARKIE

The AM2S: it’s a criteria that not a lot of people can hit because we all work in a certain area.

I’ve heard the phrase ‘race to the bottom’ when talking about pricing work. Is our industry going downhill?

“Your employer and training provider are responsible for ensuring you complete a rounded programme of practical workplace experience and that your study covers all aspects of the assessment.

Got a question for our industry experts? Get in touch and we will do our best to get your question answered! Send your question to editor@sng-publishing.co.uk

The AM2S reflects the industry standard for an electrician's competence and thousands complete it each year. It does mean, however, that the assessment criteria must cover all aspects of industry work and not just certain areas. If your work is specialised, you’ll need to find opportunities to get broader experience if you are to complete your apprenticeship and become fully qualified. Ask your employer or training provider how you can do this.”

Darren Oates Technical Development Manager NET

“Although we all look for bargains in life, quality, honesty and reliability still go a long way in establishing and building a good reputation.

Customers are usually quick to recommend quality work on social media and are unlikely to tolerate poor workmanship whatever the price. Larger clients will remember who treated them well during this pandemic, who helped them, who pulled together and who didn’t. It's not always about price.

The consequence of quoting absurd prices is that a race to the bottom is instigated. When pricing a job we need to ensure we price work based on covering our costs, including material costs, time, overhead expenses and so forth. When we do a good job, we should not need to lower our prices, even if other installers are doing so.”

Neil McManus Construction T-Level Programme Area Manager

APPRENTICE VOICE 34

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I APPRE N T IC E VOI C E

NEW CHARGE POINT ADAPTER LAUNCHES With more electric cars on the road there’s an increasing demand for electric vehicle charge points. So with this in mind Megger UK has launched the EVCA210-UK. The adaptor allows users to fully test Mode 3 AC electric vehicle charge points in compliance with UK, European and other International wiring regulations and standards.

S

“Electric vehicle usage is predicted to rise sharply in the next couple of decades”

uitable for testing both single- and three-phase charge points, when used with an appropriate connector, the EVCA210-UK simulates the connection of an electric vehicle to the charge point under test, allowing the user to trigger the charging process by selecting the appropriate Proximity Pilot (PP) and Control Pilot (CP) states. It also has a manual PE pre-test feature to test for dangerous voltages present on the PE, prior to carrying out any other testing. > ADDED CONVENIENCE Test instruments can be connected to the EVCA210-UK using either the front mounted mains socket or the 4mm connection ports (L1, L2, L3, N, PE) provided. Two additional terminals give the operator the ability to measure the CP signal using an oscilloscope. The Megger EVCA210-UK has two connection cables supplied as standard: a Type 2 connector for charging points with a panel mounted socket outlet or a tethered cable with its own connector, and a Type 1 connector for charging points with a tethered Type 1 Plug.

For more information visit: uk.megger.com

“Electric vehicle usage is predicted to rise sharply in the next couple of decades,” said Peter Wade of Megger, “and the charge points for these vehicles must be tested as part of the initial installation, with testing then repeated periodically.

To make life easy for contractors

carrying out this essential work, we’ve produced the EVCA210-UK. It’s simple to use and it’s versatile – it’s compatible with the vast majority of charge points they are likely to encounter in homes, business premises and elsewhere.”

E V C H A RGE P OI N T S I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

35

THE RETURN TO REALITY: MIXED EMOTIONS The past year has been difficult and different for every person in one way or another. With three national lockdowns and restrictions for us all, the news of the vaccine programme and lockdown easing has stirred up some mixed emotions.

W

e to o find k to In retu stag o ut re if th rn to re ally fe how ou ram to e e vote y're a ality an l abou r follow n t th d d ers x in can that ious or e a poll e the ’t fo the rget y are xcite ask y mos were a about excite d, 77% ing d cree tly exc nxious the 23 . But we i % . t p e E w ve tips ing u d bu p on t a b n if yo ho said o n this u h i cha ow to you, he t of an are feel x nge r i . ok w e are s ety is ith a ome ll

E V I T I S O P BE E V I T I S O P BE E V I T I S O P BE E V I T I S O P BE 36

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I M E N TAL HE ALT H

“Be patient and give yourself time. Take integrating back into normal life at your own pace and don’t feel pressured”

01

> UNDERSTAND AND ACCEPT THAT FEELINGS OF ANXIETY IN THIS SITUATION ARE COMPLETELY NORMAL

04

> USE YOUR TRIED AND TESTED COPING STRATEGIES

02

> START WITH SMALLER SOCIAL SITUATIONS

05

> WORK ON REPROGRAMMING YOUR MIND

The reason you are feeling anxiety could be that your mind is thinking of going from no social interaction to full on social interaction and skipping the part in the middle, in effect making you feel overwhelmed. If that’s the case, then stop and remember that you can start with smaller social situations and build up to larger ones.

For some people, even all of these tips won’t help.

That’s when you have to put in more effort to start feeling ok - reprogramming your mind is a key part of this.

Practice mindfulness, reaffirm positive thoughts, keep a journal or diary, there are so many things you can do yourself to change the way you think. If you are struggling, there are lots of online resources that can help.

> DON’T LET PEER PRESSURE OR OTHER PEOPLE'S EXCITEMENT MAKE YOU LEAP BACK INTO LIFE TOO QUICKLY

03

06

> BE PATIENT AND GIVE YOURSELF TIME

Even if you’ve worked throughout the pandemic, you still had to face significant changes in your lifestyle. For more than a year, one of the only reasons you could leave the house was to go to work. Not being able to take part in leisure activities and socialise with other people have become so engrained that we have accepted it as the ‘new normal’ so going back to the ‘old normal’ might be a big adjustment.

Although it may seem like everyone around you is excited, no one is forcing you to go shopping in a packed shopping centre or sit in a stadium of thousands of people from June 21st. Take reintegrating back into normal life at your own pace and start with situations that make you feel comfortable.

Before lockdown, if you were feeling down, you would do things that made you feel better. Lockdown took away the opportunity for us to do the things that we would usually do to protect our mental health. Going back to reality will mean that we will get back those coping strategies and for some people that will be enough to start healing from the mental health stresses of lockdown.

Whatever you choose to do to ease your anxiety, remember that this is a process, and it will take some time before you start noticing changes in your mental health and feelings. Be patient and give yourself time to really start noticing changes and don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Talking and sharing your feelings really helps.

NEED HELP?

For more information visit: www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters www.mind.org.uk stem4.org.uk

We hope you have found these suggestions helpful.

If you are still struggling with mental health issues then there is always someone to talk to, like the Samaritans (available 24 hours). Call 116 123 to speak to a trained counsellor, confidentially, for free.

M E N TA L H E A LT H I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

37

STUDENT SURVEY 83%

28%

AGREE

Faster installation

We asked student electricians what advantages they think using push-in or lever connectors instead of terminal strips will give them on site.

AGREE

Ability to re-use and rectify mistakes

39% AGREE

Ability to adapt to different sites

69% AGREE

Easier installation Commissioned by Ideal Industries Conducted by Warrington & Vale Royal College

“It’s important that we teach students all the cable termination methods that they might be expected to use on site.”

Dave Love, Senior Curriculum Manager for Apprenticeships & STEM Warrington & Vale Royal College

“A major reason for working with Warrington & Vale Royal College is to support them with products that will give their students a head start in using the latest installation techniques on site.”

Brett Smyth, General Manager EMEA Ideal Industries S T U DE N T SU RV E Y I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

39

A ‘SMART’ CURRICULUM West College Scotland takes a step into the future by incorporating Lightwave PRO training content within their SECTT accredited electrical apprentice course.

S

mart home technology is finding its way into the average home, and as the next generation of electricians you need to be ready to meet this trend head-on. Your future clients will want to monitor their homes from anywhere, controlling their heating, lighting and appliances through voice commands and mobile apps. > IN PARTNERSHIP With this in mind, and in partnership with SJIB (Scottish Joint Industry Board) and SECTT (Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust), West College Scotland provides Apprentice and Adult Electrotechnical Training Programmes. WCS is embracing future technologies by incorporating Lightwave PRO training content within their normal curriculum.

“We see electricians at the forefront of energy efficiency and tackling climate change”

“The SJIB programme has always delivered a solid knowledge and understanding of a variety of electrical installation works to electrical apprentices. However, with the development of a new SVQ in Electrical Installation last year, the development group took the opportunity to embrace smart technology for all approved centres in Scotland. We see electricians at the forefront of energy efficiency and tackling climate change. We need the younger generation of electricians coming through to be aware of this smart and renewable technology, to ensure these technologies are adopted more readily, and also to motivate and engage the learners with new technology, preparing them for an exciting future in the industry.

Lightwave has been extremely supportive and SECTT want to see this partnership grow over the coming years.”

Barrie McKay, SECTT Training Manager

40

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I M AN UFAC T URE R T R A I N I N G

> WHO IS LIGHTWAVE? Lightwave is a British manufacturer of IoT connected (AKA ‘smart’) electrical accessories – dimmers, sockets, relays and sensors. These devices can be installed as a retrofit smart home solution using traditional wiring – with or without a neutral. The Lightwave system allows installers to expand the boundaries of traditional control and works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit.

“Lightwave has worked hand-in-hand with electrical contractors for over a decade, designing a course that provides exactly what the industry needs to help PRO installers expand their client offering and embrace the future of smart homes.”

Simon Lane Director of Partnerships at Lightwave Lightwave PRO is a training course and membership benefits programme that is designed to help upskill electrical installers. Lightwave hosts a PRO webinar at least once a week, and it’s FREE to join.

SCAN HERE

57%

of British homes contain smart devices Smart Home Week survey

65%

of people buying a house would pay more for a smart home John Burns Real Estate Consulting survey

“The Lightwave system allows installers to expand the boundaries of traditional control…”

For more information, visit lightwaverf.com

M A N U FAC T U RE R T R A I N I N G I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

41

25 % off KNIPEX Student toolkits!

As an apprentice, filling your toolbox with the best tools to get the job done is vital.

But how do you know which tools to start a professional toolkit with? To help you, KNIPEX has put together two special student kits.

25% off for Students & Apprentices Use Discount Code: KNIP25 at checkout www.primetools.co.uk For more information contact info@knipex.co.uk

£ 86.24* RRP £ 114.99

Basic Electrical Kit > Combination Pliers > Long Nose Pliers > Diagonal Cutter > Screwdrivers Slim > Cross Slot Screwdrivers Slim PrimeTools Stock Code: KPXEBA102

Save

25ow%! n

£ 199.98*

Premium Electrical Kit > Combination Pliers > Pliers For Electrical Installation > KNIPEX ErgoStrip® Universal Dismantling Tool > Long Nose Pliers > Diagonal Cutter > KNIPEX Cobra® Water Pump Pliers > Screwdrivers Slim > Cross Slot Screwdrivers Slim PrimeTools Stock Code: KPXEPA103

*+ VAT

RRP £ 266.50

KNIPEX Quality – Made in Germany

David Barnes, Marketing Manager of KNIPEX, looks at the tools which could form the foundations of your first professional toolkit.

3 Water Pump Pliers > The ever-popular KNIPEX Cobra® Water Pump Pliers can be set to the desired size by the push of a button > Fine size adjustment ensures optimum handle position > Box-joint construction prevents the pliers pulling to one side when in use > A user-friendly guard prevents fingers being pinched!

4 Screwdrivers

1 Pliers and cutters

> A toolkit would not be complete without screwdrivers > For electricians, the KNIPEX Screwdrivers Slim and KNIPEX Cross Slot Screwdrivers Slim are perfect

> Combination Pliers and Diagonal Cutters are key tools for electricians: Cut, grab, nip and twist items, even in the most cramped and hard to reach areas! > These tools have many functions individually that will save you time, money and effort > Check out our YouTube or social channels for hints, tips and How To’s

2 Cable stripping > The award winning KNIPEX ErgoStrip® Universal Dismantling Tool is a superb, fast and precise cable stripping tool > Its pistol grip design is made for easy cutting, stripping and a longitudinal cut of a cable sheath > It is a real favourite amongst professional electricians because of its time saving capabilities

VDE protection Safety is the first priority when working on electrical installations.

Any electrician must be able to rely 100 percent on the tools that have been specially manufactured for this purpose. KNIPEX’s production methods and the equipment used for testing insulated tools are frequently examined, certified and monitored by the Association of German Electricians (VDE). Each design of KNIPEX insulated pliers is authorised by the independent VDE Institute concerning safety features before a type approval is granted.

Added to all this are rigorous random tests that make KNIPEX tools a great choice for the electrician.

Keep up-to-date with KNIPEX tools knipex_uk

knipex.uk

knipex_uk

knipex-tools-uk

www.knipex.com

Are you an EV installer?

The rules on DC fault protection are changing for the 18th Edition*.

Car charging point installation and maintenance are the biggest opportunity for the electrical trade in years.

Metrel testers, and others, can test Type B RCDs. Only Metrel can test automatic disconnect with a 6 mA DC fault current.

Only Metrel can test all options of charging state output.

Find out how the A 1532 test adaptor and the MI 3152 can dramatically accelerate your business growth.

CALL 01924 245000 or mail info@metrel.co.uk for more information TODAY! * ref 18th Edition 722.533.2.101 Metrel UK Ltd. Unit 16, 1st Qtr Business Park Blenheim Road, Epsom Surrey KT19 9QN

Twitter-@MetrelUkLtd

Phone: 01924 245000 Fax: 01924 245007 E-mai: info@metrel.co.uk Web: www.metrel.co.uk

Instagram- metrelukltd

Facebook - @MetrelUk

EXERCISES We’ve been lucky enough to collaborate with electrical expert Mike Davies, who has been in the industry since the 1970s.

Mike became a qualified electrical engineer after completing an apprenticeship when he left school at 16.

He became a college lecturer in 1980 after completing a Further Education teacher training qualification.

Now retired, Mike works as a self-employed lecturer and training consultant.

Go to sparks-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free.

EARTHING ARRANGEMENTS AND PROTECTIVE CONDUCTORS

Covering Outcome 2 of Unit 304 (Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electro-Technical Systems and Equipment 2357-13 / 91)

You may find it helpful to have a copy of BS7671:2018 for reference.

Q1. TN-C-S, TN-S and TT are all types of?

Answer: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Q2.

The ‘earthing conductor’ is the protective conductor that connects the main earthing terminal (MET) to which other points?

Answer: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Q3.

Give three examples of suitable earth electrodes that could be installed in a TT installation?

Answer: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................... ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Q4.

What is minimum cross-sectional area of a buried pvc insulated copper earthing conductor protected by a steel pipe?

Answer: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Q5.

The cross-sectional area of a protective conductor, other than a protective bonding conductor, can be determined by one of two methods. What are the two methods?

Answer: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Go to sparks-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

46

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I E XE RC IS E S

INITIAL VERIFICATION OF ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

Covering Unit 607 (Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electro-Technical Systems and Equipment 2357-13 / 91 and the EAL equivalent)

Complete the following questions regarding the principles, practices and legislation for the initial verification of electrical installations. You may need to refer to the IET Guidance Note 3 (GN3) to help answer the questions.

Q1. State two occasions when an initial verification can be carried out.

Answer: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Q2.

Identify two aspects of BS7671 that initial verification will confirm.

Answer: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Q3.

When an inspector carries out an initial verification explain why inspection and testing can only be ‘so far as is reasonably practicable’?

Answer: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................... ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Q4.

Identify the three BS7671 generic requirements for items to be verified during the initial verification procedure.

Answer: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................... ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Q5.

State the correct title of the statutory document that concerns inspection and test records, and identify the length of time records must be kept.

Answer: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Q6.

State who is responsible for comparing and verifying inspection and test results with relevant criteria for an installation.

Answer: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Go to sparks-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

E X E RC I SE S I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

47

INSPECTION AND TESTING OF ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

Covering Unit 307: (Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electro-Technical Systems and Equipment 2357-13 / 91 and the EAL equivalent)

Practice multiple-choice questions: Q1

Which one of the following is concerned principally with Part 6 of BS7671?

a

Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

b

Building Regulations

c

Electricity, Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations

d

IET Guidance Note 3

Ans.

To enable electrically skilled persons to Q2 construct an electrical installation and Ans. commission it, the document required is?

a

Resistive loads

b

Electric heating systems

c

Voltages on earthed metalwork

d

Capacitive loads

The responsibilities of an electrical Q6 inspection and test engineer include each Ans. of the following with one exception.

a

IET BS7671:2008

a

To ensure no danger occurs to persons, livestock and property during testing

b

Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

b

To compare the test results with design criteria

c

The Specification c

To consider the condition of the installation and advise accordingly

d

To Issue prohibition notices

d

Part P of the Building Regulations

Precise details regarding the way Q3 electrical equipment is to be installed must be obtained from? a

The equipment manufacturer

b

The client

c

The main contractor

d

The electricity supplier

Electrical test instruments should Q4 conform to which of the following British Standards? a

HS (G) 141

b

HSE Guidance

c

EAWR 1989

d

BS EN 61010

Ans.

Ans.

Go to sparks-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free 48

Electrical shock hazards may arise from isolated parts of an electrical installation.

Q5 Ans. Which of the following connected loads require care to be taken?

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I E XE RC IS E S

In the case of a house of multipleoccupancy, the maximum period between Q7 Ans. inspections and testing is recommended not to exceed? a

Annually

b

Every two years

c

Every five years

d

Every ten years

When inspecting an installation for the Q8 first time the purpose is to verify each of the following except? a

No part of the installation is damaged

b

Test results comply with previously obtained data

c

Parts of the fixed installation are correctly selected and erected

d

Installed electrical equipment is of the correct type

Ans.

ELECTRICAL INSTRUMENT READINGS Covering Unit 307: (Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electro-Technical Systems and Equipment 2357-13 / 91 and the EAL equivalent)

In the following exercise match each unit with its measured unit:

Unit

1

2

Current 4 x 10­3 Voltage 400 x 103

Measured Unit

A

36mA

B

45kΩ

3

Resistance 150 x 102

C

5kW

4

Current 36 x 10- 3

D

15kΩ

5

Resistance 45 x 103

E

20MΩ

6

Power 50 x 102

F

400kV

7

Resistance 20 x 106

G

4kA

8

Time 20 x 10- 3

H

20mS

Go to sparks-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

50

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I E XE RC IS E S

NO CORD, NO BRUSHES, NO KEYS – THE BRUSHLESS X-LOCK SOLUTION Work is easier without an electric cable holding you back, but are cordless tools strong enough for every task?

Thanks to brushless technology, cordless convenience now goes much further. The innovative technology brings you the same power and performance as corded tools. The cordless power for the Bosch Professional GWX 18V-7 Angle Grinder is equal to a 700w corded grinder, thanks to the efficient brushless motor.

The GWX 18V-7 angle grinder is ideal for electricians when slicing through sheet metal, plasterboard and stainless steel. It’s brushless technology means you can power through any hard material without breaking a sweat. You can also use with wire discs and brush accessories for rust removal tasks.

It’s easy to switch angle grinder accessories with just one simple click. The X-shaped interface of the grinders head and the accessory allows for an easy and effortless set up.

Bosch’s compatible dust extractors make for an easy clean up as well as creating a clearer, safer space for you to work. The GDE 115/125 FC-T Professional and GDE 125 EA-T Professional are both lightweight and a great addition to the GWX 18V-7 Professional Angle Grinder, the full-cover shape provides enhanced dust extraction for virtually dust-free work. The guard is attached directly to the angle grinder for easy handling.

Compatible with X-LOCK accessories, the original XLOCK changing system by Bosch provides you with a wide range of high quality accessories you can change in a matter of seconds.

GWX 18V-7 PROFESSIONAL X-LOCK ANGLE GRINDER Lightweight design and slim grip size for convenient and versatile cutting Change discs in seconds with X-LOCK innovation

New design auxiliary handle

Keyless protection guard

Ultimate Performance. Maximum Freedom.

END OF YEAR REVISION: ELECTRICAL SCIENCE & PRINCIPLES Covering Unit 309: ‘Understanding the electrical principles associated with the design, building, installation, and maintenance of electrical equipment and systems’ (Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electro-Technical Systems and Equipment 2357-13 / 91 or EAL equivalent)

Attempt the following multiple choice questions: Three resistors of 10Ω, 25Ω and 55Ω Q1 are connected in series with each other.

The total resistance will be?

Q5

When current in a conductor is shown by the symbol the current is?

a

Higher than 80Ω

a

Alternating

b

Higher than 25Ω

b

Flowing away from the viewer

c

Total of 88Ω

c

Flowing towards the viewer

d

Lower than 10Ω

d

Positive

Two resistors each having a resistance Q2 of 100Ω are connected in parallel with a resistor of 50Ω. The total resistance is? a

3.05Ω

b

13.5Ω

c

25.0Ω

d

142Ω

The total resistance of a circuit is 150Ω.

If the circuit consists of three resistors, Q3 and one resistor is 10Ω, what is the total value of the remaining resistors?

Ans.

Ans.

a

Moving clockwise around the conductor

b

Moving anti-clockwise around the conductor

c

Passing over the length of conductor

d

Alternating across the conductor

Q7 Magnetic flux is measured in?

140Ω

a

Webers

b

112Ω

b

Joules

c

100Ω

c

Farads

d

9Ω

d

Teslas

When an alternating current passes through a conductor?

a

Heat is generated

b

An alternating magnetic field is produced in the conductor

c

Electrons flow from positive to negative

d

A magnetic field is set up around the conductor

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I E XE RC IS E S

Ans.

Ans.

If current is flowing as shown in the symbol Q6 of question 5 above, the magnetic field Ans. produced around the conductor will be?

a

Q4

52

Ans.

Force acting on a current carrying Q8 conductor lying at 90° to a magnetic field is measured in? a

Joules

b

Newtons

c

Watts

d

Webers

Ans.

Ans.

A conductor 100m long and carrying 5A Q9 is lying at 90º to a magnetic field of 1.5T. Ans. What is the force on the conductor? a

750N

b

115N

c

107.5N

d

100N

Calculate the induced voltage in a 500m Q10 long conductor when it is passing through Ans. a flux density of 3T at a rate of 3m/s

A distribution circuit cable is supplied at end A with 230v, and resistive loads Q14 are taken from it at points B and C. If the Ans. overall voltage drop from A to C is 2.6%, the voltage at C will be? a

220.03V

b

224.02V

c

226.45V

d

598.78V

If an electric motor has a rated output Q15 of 25kW and an efficiency of 78%, the electrical input to the motor will be?

a

500V

b

4.5kV

c

450V

a

15.60kW

d

55.5V

b

21.00kW

c

24.00kW

d

32.05kW

What is the resistance of 1000m of Q11 1.5mm² copper cable if the conductor resistivity is given as 17.2μΩ/mm? a

0.85 Ω

b

0.95 Ω

c

10.00 Ω

d

11.47 Ω

Q12

The electron has what type of electrical charge?

a

Negative

b

Positive

c

None

d

Equal positive and negative

The power factor of an a.c. induction motor is stated as 0.8. If the motor is Q13 rated as 30kW what is the apparent power of the motor? a

24.00kVA

b

25.20kVA

c

52.20kVA

d

37.50kVA

Ans.

Q16

Ans.

An auto-transformer operates on the principle of?

a

Self-induction

b

Mutual induction

c

Impedance

d

Resistance

The impedance of a series a.c. circuit Q17 is usually expressed in which of the following units?

Ans.

a

Watts

b

Amperes

c

Volts

d

Ohms

Ans.

Ans.

Ans.

Go to sparks-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

E X E RC I SE S I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

53

ELECTRO-TECHNICAL SCIENCE REVISION QUIZ

Covering Unit 302 (Level 3 Diploma in electrical Installations (Buildings & Structures) C&G 2365-03 or EAL equivalent)

True or False: For each question decide if the answer or statement is true or false. You may need to refer to your notes, text books or, where necessary, complete a calculation to see if the answer is correct or not.

TRUE OR FALSE?

Q1

Electric current flows when a potential-difference is connected across a completed circuit

Q2

Conventional electric current flows from the negative to the positive terminal in a circuit supplied by a battery

Q3

Resistance can be described as a potential-difference across components of a circuit

Q4

A typical transmission voltage is 400 000V or 400kV

Q5

A distribution voltage can be 230V or 400V

Q6

The resistance of a conductor decreases with increasing length and increases with decreasing cross-sectional-area

Q7

Iron and copper losses are normally associated with electrical transformers

Q8

The impedance of an electrical coil is the resistance of the material the coil is made from

Q9

The force exerted on a current-carrying conductor that is lying at right-angles to a magnetic field can be found by applying Flemings’ RIGHT-HAND rule

Q10

The term ‘electrical discharge’ normally describes the operating principle of the fluorescent lamp

TRUE

Go to sparks-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

54

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I E XE RC IS E S

FALSE

WORDSEARCH: ELECTRICAL TEST INSTRUMENTS Covering Unit 304, Learning outcome 4 (Level 3 Diploma in electrical Installations (Buildings & Structures) C&G 2365-03 or EAL equivalent)

A Q U C F

Accuracy

T

I

O P N G S V M V

T R E A S D

L O O P

T

E S

I

U

J

H K F D

Calibration

K

I

O P

F B S G

Digital

Y B H

J

U K

I

Earth

S C H Z W R V R V M J

A

F

F

E C

T

X B G T

T H Y T

F

J

G C C

V N M E G O H M Q S X C E

T R B Y N U M

Electrode

B H E

V C G H N B T

Lead

L

E C

T R O D E E

F

N Y

T H E R M O G R A P H

H T

E

J

Y U

I

K

I

S

T

A N C E K N M H Y

F W E

X

E G H Y

J

U B

Measurement

I

O D V W S

Megohm

D V A Q S S R E H R O T

A

T

Ohmmeter

O O W E P

L B T R F

M S Q R R R O E U

I

V

A T

J

F H T

Y

I

O N E

Y G L

P H W E G N

A E R A C C U R A C Y

F Q O P

P

W S B S C H E P U R E D C S C A

T

I

T

Y O

T

A X G

T W T D B D T K W F C V B T H N A G X L

E

E E G

R D M E A S U R E M E N T H J D F F T D E R O Q R E C V B T

Y J K U L Y U N M K

C

F

T

Loop test

K

Y U A I

C

X K R T U N H D F G H T R W Q A S

C H R E S I

I

V C A

X G Z

L

L

I

B R A

T

X P

L

E A D Y

I

O N A

E R T N

T H V G B F R S C

Probe Resistance RCD Rotation Scale Tester Thermographic Voltage

Go to sparks-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

QUALITY

INNOVATION

RELIABILITY

Precision engineered to offer leading performance, durability, accuracy, strength & cost efficiency.

C.K Tools, the brand for process and maintenance professionals...

ck-tools.com C29A00117_Sparks_1/4Strip-June21.indd 1

04/05/2021 13:22

E X E RC I SE S I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

55

d A bon

..

bond. is a

Adapt

F O L L HA

and o verco m

e

E M SHA ng

Close enou gh ...

56

SPARKS I SUMME R 2 0 2 1 I H AL L O F S H AM E

wro that do it o t ! r ght harde it ri It's to do than

While most electricians and electrical engineers are fully qualified and do a great job, there are some out there who do some shocking work - sometimes literally!

We’ve teamed up with Crap Electrical UK to bring you our regular gruesome gallery of weird wiring, ludicrous lighting and shoddy sockets.

Should've

ecsavers gone to Sp

way to ainly one That's cert t way... t the righ do it.. no y... but one wa Small job, mighty mistake

When

you f orgot you h to ti ide e dy up veryt so hing the w behin ardro d be do or...

What ca n I use to fill this ga p?

ws stomer ‘kno When the cu s’ ic tr bit of elec

a

A big thank you to the members of Crap Electrical UK for supplying us with so many great images.

The Facebook group, which has around 7500 members, is run by Charles Billington, Simon Allen, Lewis Boddington, Jake Simmons, Samuel Miles and Lee Quince.

If you’ve come across a dodgy installation, send us your pictures and they could be featured on this page.

You can email us at editor@sng-publishing.co.uk.

H A L L OF SH A M E I S U M M E R 2021 I SPA RKS

57