ECN December 2022

QUICKWIRE SET TO RELEASE LATEST INNOVATION

2023 is undoubtedly looking to be a big year for Quickwire as the company brings its latest products to market in early February –two new Quickwire junction boxes for power connection.

The new additions to the popular Quickwire range will be two and four-way Splitter Junction boxes for use with 2.5mm2 cable and rated at 24A. These clever new products will open up a whole new dimension of capabilities for users of the Quickwire system. Quickwire junction boxes with larger load capacity have been a popular request from electricians and contractors around the country. These highly anticipated additions will allow lightning quick distribution of power and make common jobs like breaking into ring finals, or repairing damaged cable runs, much easier.

Both products will be rated to 24A, accept 2.5mm2 solid core twin and earth cable and comply to British standards BS EN60670-22 and BS5733-MF. Up until now the main Quickwire product range has been rated at 16A, commonly for use in lighting circuits. But now, entering into the realms of power connection will prove a game changer for many.

Turn to page 12 for the full story.

Hello and welcome to the December issue of ECN –the final one of the year! It’s been another bumpy year, with energy prices and the cost of living dominating the headlines for much of it.

A recent news story that caught my eye is that more than a quarter of electricians will be working on Christmas Day this year, mainly due to finances as a result of the cost of living crisis. The study by IronmongeryDirect also found that a third of tradespeople will be taking less time off over the festive period, and younger workers are far more likely to work all the way through the festive season.

On average, tradespeople say they’re planning on taking five days off this December.

I do hope that you manage to take some time off for a well-earned break.

This issue’s special features include Cabling & Cable Management; Smart Buildings; and Test Equipment, plus all of the Industry and Contract News to keep you informed, along with our usual features – Training, Key Issue and this month’s Interview. And don’t forget to enter the Competition to be in with a chance of winning a five-piece Dextro Glo Screwdriver set and a Wide Field Head Light bundle, courtesy of C.K Tools.

Wishing you all the best for the festive period – see you in 2023!

Carly Wills, Editor

JTL SEEKS TO HELP EMPLOYERS ACCESS £3BN OF UNUSED TRAINING FUNDS

JTL is spreading the word on how Apprenticeship Levy funds can be transferred between employers to help pay for apprenticeship training.

The Apprenticeship Levy is a government mandated levy that must be paid by any company with a payroll of over £3 million. It asks that these companies contribute 0.5% of their annual payroll to a levy for taking on apprentices.

However, employers often don’t use all of the Apprenticeship Levy that they are obliged to pay, leaving a reported £3.3 billion of levy funds unspent since 2019.

As such, JTL is reminding levy-paying employers that they can transfer up to 25% of their paid, but unused, levy funds to another employer for use in support of their apprentice training.

Similarly, employers looking to receive a levy payment can request funding directly from another employer or from the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA).

These funds could go towards the training of an apprentice provided by JTL, wherein an employer can receive a new member of their workforce that is supported and managed by a dedicated JTL training officer.

Companies that hire apprentices can increase the efficiency of their business through the onboarding of modern techniques taught to the learners during the practical qualification training that JTL provides them. If the learners are between 16-18, the entirety of this training can be paid for with levy funds.

JTL, jtltraining.com

WEBRO SECURES FUTURE WITH NORDEN

Webro Cables & Connectors has announced that it has been appointed as the Pan-European distribution partner for Norden connectivity and security solutions. The impressive brand portfolio includes NCS, Eyenor, Secnor and NVS. Norden Communications UK is one of the fastest-growing ELV (Extra Low Voltage) Infrastructure Systems manufacturers in the market, with innovation and sustainability at the core of its development.

With its team of dedicated experts that have over 350 years of combined industry experience, demand creation-focused distributor Webro will work in partnership with Norden to drive value-engineered solutions into the UK and Europe. Webro is fully stocked with the latest network and surveillance product offering across Norden’s multiple brands that includes cabling infrastructure, video surveillance systems and access controls. Ahead of the official market launch, the Webro team has undergone extensive training with Norden to ensure outstanding customer service. In combination, the proposition is clear –to support customers with the right product selection for each project, at the right price, and always on time, so that orders can be placed with total confidence. Webro, webro.com

ESR CELEBRATES 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

On 16 November, the Electrical Safety Roundtable (ESR) hosted a parliamentary reception to shine a spotlight on ‘Enhancing the Standards of Electrical Safety in the UK’ and to celebrate its 10th anniversary. The reception brought together a multitude of stakeholders from across the industry and political sphere and provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress made to enhance electrical safety standards.

Guests heard from Lord Foster of Bath, who provided an overview of his Domestic Premises (Electrical Safety Certificate) Bill, and influential electrical safety campaigner Louise Adamson, who captivated the room with her speech, urging the industry to act to prevent fatalities resulting from unsafe electrical installations and unsafe working practices.

The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the contribution to enhancing electrical safety standards made by the Roundtable over the past 10 years and to highlight its recent initiatives, such as the newly launched Electrical Safety Roundtable Above and Beyond Awards, created to showcase best practice and inspire change.

Electrical Safety Roundtable, electricalsafetyroundtable.co.uk

IT’S ONLY THE MIDNIGHT OIL THEY’LL BE BURNING

HobSensus prevents hobs from being left on when the person preparing food is distracted or the kitchen is left unattended.

The 64 zone sensor measures the temperature over the entire surface of an electric hob. If temperatures rise to dangerous levels the power to the hob is cut. HobSensus is ideal for kitchens in student accommodation, or for those where people are living with dementia. Carers and concientious landlords have peace of mind that their kitchens are safer with HobSensus on the wall.

Ideal for student accommodation, leisure

resorts etc.

Hob control

MAYOR OF SWINDON OPENS DEVELOP TRAINING’S NEWEST TRAINING CENTRE

Develop Training has officially opened the doors to its newest training centre in Swindon, with the Mayor of Swindon attending the opening to carry out the ribbon cutting ceremony. The new centre is located at Unit 3 Richmond House, Edison Park.

With centres opening in Birmingham, Ashford, Norfolk and Brentwood, and both the York and Derby centres undergoing extensive refurbishment, 2022 has been one of the busiest years in the company’s 50-year history. All of Develop Training’s centres are purpose-built and set out to recreate real life working environments.

Councillor Abdul Amin, Mayor of Swindon, says, “It is fantastic to see such a top-class facility in Swindon, it is a privilege to be able to officially open the centre and gain a greater understanding of the courses provided by Develop Training, who have operated in the area for over 10 years. Having this new state-of-the-art centre will create many new opportunities and I wish the whole team at Develop the best of luck for the future.”

Develop Training, developtraining.co.uk

NAPIT SUPPORTS SPARKS

LEARNER OF THE YEAR 2023

The SPARKS Learner of the Year 2023 search has begun and once again NAPIT will be providing its technical expertise and continued support of the competition. Members of NAPIT’s Technical Team will be head judges for the competition and have assisted in the creation of the assessments for the learners, as well as donating prizes to all contestants and finalists.

All participants will be given free NAPIT Foundation membership and a £5 voucher for NAPIT Direct, with the finalists receiving digital copies of NAPIT’s EICR Codebreakers, On-site Solutions and Guide to Initial Verification and Periodic Inspection, and Testing of Electrical Installations publications. The winner of the competition will receive all of the above, plus a goodie bag containing a lock-out kit, calibration card, a testing adapter and a £40 NAPIT training voucher.

The competition is split in to three rounds:

• Round one: all regional competitors will complete an online written test to compete against each other to secure their place in round two.

• Round two: the top two scorers from each region will complete a series of practical scenario-based exercises and take part in a professional discussion video call. The video call will be with a member of the SPARKS team, a NAPIT judge and representatives from sponsors of the competition.

• Round three – the final: the winner of each regional heat will complete a live practical test in May. Each finalist will compete in their own college with a technical expert from NAPIT judging their work for a chance to be crowned SPARKS Learner of the Year 2023.

NAPIT, napit.org.uk

THE BEST CITIES TO BE AN ELECTRICIAN REVEALED

Across all sectors, the demand for competent tradespeople has seemingly never been higher. But exactly where are the best cities to be an electrician in the UK?

To pinpoint the best locations for trade, Intact compiled a list of the UK’s cities before creating a unique index for different types of tradespersons. This gave five different indexes in total, encompassing electricians, joiners, carpenters, plumbers and plasterers.

These indexes contained data on four different factors: search volume; jobs available; market saturation; and the average hourly rate for work.

Top 10 best UK cities to be an electrician:

• Bristol

• Edinburgh

• Cambridge

• Southampton

• Cardiff

• Manchester

• Glasgow

• Leicester

• Brighton

• Oxford

With a total score of 74/100, Bristol is the top city for electricians, offering both the highest demand and the most jobs available than any other place in the country.

If money is a major factor for you, then St Albans and Brighton might be your first port of call. Offering an average of £44p/h and £41p/h respectively, the two southern cities listed the highest-paying electrician jobs that Intact came across.

As for jobs, they were most abundant in Manchester, Bristol and Salford, while Bristol, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Liverpool have the highest demand for electricians.

When it came to the least favoured, Truro, Newry and Lisburn took the bottom three spots, with low demand, very few jobs and poor hourly rates. Intact, intactsoftware.com

ELECTRICAL SAFETY ROUNDTABLE ABOVE AND BEYOND AWARDS OPEN FOR ENTRIES

The Electrical Safety Roundtable Above and Beyond Awards (ABA) are now open for entries. The ABA aim to recognise and celebrate individuals and organisations who go above and beyond their legal duty and strive to enhance and improve electrical safety within the workplace.

The awards are open to all individuals and organisations with a notable interest in electrical safety and will be judged on evidence from the past 24 months. The ABA provide a great opportunity to share best practice and promote electrical safety, gain recognition, and provide clients and customers with confidence in products and services.

Categories to enter include:

• Product of the Year

• Electrical Safety Initiative of the Year

• Changemaker of the Year

• Derek Thompson Industry Service Award

Commenting on the ABA, Paul Meenan, Chair of the ESR Workplace group says, “As a group we wanted to provide the electrical industry with an opportunity to get their hard work recognised. Enhancing electrical safety is the ESR’s key mission and these awards will provide a great chance to showcase organisations and individuals’ efforts to enhance electrical safety and hopefully inspire others.”

The Above and Beyond Awards are open for entries now and close on 13 January 2023, with winners being announced in February.

Electrical Safety Roundtable, electricalsafetyroundtable.co.uk

SHORT COURSES ARE NO SUBSTITUTE FOR PROPER ELECTRICAL TRAINING

The head of Scotland’s largest trade body has warned against the rising trend of ‘six-week wonders’ who are trying to enter the electrical industry after taking just a short course in basic skills.

In a hard-hitting interview, SELECT Managing Director, Alan Wilson, dismissed the spread of fast-track courses and said people with inadequate training and experience pose a safety risk to both the electrical sector and consumers.

He also insisted there was no substitute for a proper apprenticeship – and warned that people with ‘pound signs in their eyes’ faced being taken advantage of by rogue trainers offering worthless short courses.

Alan says, “We all know how safety-critical the construction industry is, and the last thing I want is for anyone to spend money on a pie-in-the-sky idea that after six weeks of training they can trot out and start rewiring homes or installing solar PV and battery storage. It just doesn’t happen.”

SELECT, select.org.uk

ENERGY REGULATOR CHALLENGED TO EXAMINE UK HEAT PUMP ROLLOUT

Ofgem has been challenged by a leading energy trade body to examine the real-world consequence of shifting homes from gas onto heat pumps.

The CEO of Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA), Mike Foster, has written to the regulator, Jonathan Brearley, calling for a village-sized trial of decarbonising homes using heat pumps.

The trial will mirror what is currently being considered for homes to be converted to hydrogen, another option designed to decarbonise the UK.

Mike says, “A heat pump village trial will replicate what will happen all across the UK if the government decides that hydrogen will not replace natural gas. Such a trial, conducted now, will help inform the regulator and government of the consequences for the consumer.

“Electricity networks will need massive upgrades to wires, substations and even pylons. Homes need assessing for their suitability for a heat pump. That means looking at the fabric of the building itself, its outside space, its internal pipework or even where to put a hot water tank. A heat pump village trial does just this.”

“Ofgem should have the consumer at the very heart of its thinking. Reinforcement of the power network will come at a massive cost; the consumer will foot the bill, so they have a right to know what this is likely to be. They should also be told what is required from them in their homes.

Energy and Utilities Alliance, eua.org.uk

MILLIONS TO USE ELECTRIC HEATERS AS THEY WORRY ABOUT THEIR ENERGY BILLS

New research released by Electrical Safety First reveals a drastic change in how households will heat their homes, as energy bills have skyrocketed in the last year.

A new survey of more than 3,000 nationally representative adults across the UK has shown 42% of respondents are either definitely using or considering using an electric heater to heat a single room in their home, due to concerns over the cost of central heating.

The latest figure represents an 8% increase, year-on-year, in those planning to use electric heaters this winter to heat a single room in their home, the equivalent of 4.3 million people.

Although electric heaters are not inherently dangerous, they can and do cause devastating fires if they are not used with care, with fan heaters posing a greater risk in the home.

Further findings show how, for many, this change in behaviour will be new, with over one in three (37%) of those who plan to use an electric heater this winter having not done so before, as financial pressures continue to impact more homes.

This new research on likely electric heater use reflects an overwhelming trend of increased worry and concern about the cost of energy, with 90% of those surveyed this year saying they were concerned about the cost of heating their home this winter – up from 78% last year.

The charity is urging households to be extra careful this winter, given the likely increase in their use of electrical heaters and electric blankets, due to the cost-of-living crisis.

Electrical Safety First, electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk

MOVERS & SHAKERS…

JTL has announced the appointment of both a new Chair, Sir John Low, and a new CEO, Chris Claydon. John brings with him over 20 years of experience in a commercial background of technology and engineering, as well as extensive periods in the charity sector. Chris is currently Chief Executive of the ECITB, the skills, standards, and qualifications body for the development of the UK’s engineering construction workforce.

GreenBrook Electrical has announced the appointment of Peter Ratcliffe to the position of Managing Director. Peter joined GreenBrook in 2012 and has been leading the sales operation and driving the business forward since that time. Peter is a well-respected figure in the electrical industry, and has a wealth of knowledge of the sector.

Baxi has appointed Tony Falconar to the role of National Sales Manager to spearhead the growth of its Baxi Packaged Solutions business and ensure a compelling customer proposition for contractors, specifiers and end-users.

LIGHTING THE WAY TO Make contact with our experienced team and find out why Pulse Cinemas should be your first choice for Lutron Lighting. www.pulsecinemas.com

LIGHTING THE WAY TO Make contact with our experienced team and find out why Pulse Cinemas should be your first choice for Lutron Lighting. www.pulsecinemas.com www.pulsecinemas.com

WORK FASTER, NOT HARDER

Quickwire

innovative

There are always cheaper ways of doing a job, but when all things are considered, are they actually saving you money? Labour is often the most expensive part of any project, so if you can do two jobs in the time it would otherwise take to do one, then you must be doing something right.

16A junction boxes for lighting

First, an introduction to Quickwire. Quickwire connectors arrived on the scene in 2018, and the company has gone from strength to strength ever since.

Quickwire launched with two core products: a Splitter Junction Box, and Switch & Load junction box. Both are 16 amp rated, maintenance-free and designed for lighting circuits. The Splitter is a simple four-way splitter with a wide variety of applications, and the Switch & Load has a preconfigured internal layout allowing a three plate termination equivalent. However, the thing that really sets these products apart from existing junction boxes is the patented Quickwire connection terminals – simply put, all four connections can be wired in just seven seconds! Strip your wire, then push it into the push-fit connectors for quick and easy, screwless termination. The push fit design completely negates the need for fiddly screws, clamps, clips or covers. And because all Quickwire products are integrally cord gripped there is no need to screw them down.

Plugs and sockets

Building on the success of these two products, Quickwire released a plug and socket in 2020, bringing a whole new dimension to the Quickwire system. A Quickwire plug allows flexible cable to be terminated. This plug then fits into a Quickwire socket which has in/out Quickwire connections, accepting T&E. The Quickwire sockets can be connected in seconds at downlight points during first fix. After this it is a simple case of plugging in downlights at second fix. With a large room of downlights, the time savings are remarkable.

A Quickwire downlight –great idea!

Quickwire customers fit plugs and sockets on to all types of downlights to achieve a superior connection method. Recently, Quickwire has worked with Ricoman, a Manchester-based company, to produce a Quickwire-equipped, high quality integral downlight. These come factory fitted with a Quickwire plug, and a socket is also included in the box. These hit the market late last year and are selling like hot cakes.

One small thing…

The company likes to think it has the smallest junction boxes of their type on the market today. The compact design of all its products means they can be inserted through a 30mm hole in the ceiling. It’s easy to push a Quickwire product up into a ceiling void and pull it back down should you ever need to.

Made in Great Britain

And finally, just in case you needed any more reasons to like Quickwire, all this innovation and manufacturing comes from Great Britain. The company sources its plastics, and metal components from UK suppliers, and the machining and manufacturing is carried out solely in Quickwire’s factory in Reading. If you’ve ever picked up a Quickwire, you’ll notice the quality. Now you know why!

Quickwire, quickwire.co.uk

The company sources its plastics, and metal components from UK suppliers

Quickwire connectors arrived on the scene in 2018

and its

range of products are still relatively new to the market, and electricians are starting to realise that cheaper products are not always the most cost-effective ones.

Pluggable T-Connector for flexible cable

Designed to dramatically speed up lighting installation time

IOT PROJECT SHINES LIGHT ON ABERDEEN CITY COUNCIL’S SUSTAINABILITY COMMITMENT

An intelligent street lighting project has been rolled out by Aberdeen City Council, unlocking sustainability and decarbonisation improvements across the city.

The Lighting Up Aberdeen project, in partnership with North, is helping the local authority create a greener future through the use of energy efficient lighting across the city.

The project has seen a state-of-the-art IoT solution installed to manage and monitor more than 37,000 street lighting units remotely, enhancing the city’s lighting provision, whilst simultaneously helping to create a greener and safer city for the people of Aberdeen.

Through the new solution, there is now no need for the manual process of checking lights, significantly reducing carbon emissions from travelling, while custom dimming profiles can be used to manage the level of energy required at any given time and automated fault reporting has allowed for more efficient maintenance.

Impressively, so far, Lighting Up Aberdeen has delivered considerable carbon reductions through

a reduction in energy use and, in turn, the council has seen significant savings across street lighting electricity bills.

The project has been recognised across the UK, winning the Sustainable Customer Project of the Year category at the recent CRN Tech Impact Awards. North was awarded

for its work with Aberdeen City Council, providing the local authority with a city-wide LoRaWAN IoT network and Central Management System (CMS) based Intelligent Lighting solution.

North, north.tech

SES ENGINEERING SERVICES DELIVERS £25M OF COMPLEX SMART TECHNOLOGIES

SES Engineering Services (SES) has completed £25m worth of engineering services at The JJ Mack Building, commercial developer Helical’s flagship scheme for sustainability.

Working closely and collaboratively with principal contractor Mace, SES has delivered full mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) services for the 200,450ft2, 10-storey block in the heart of Farringdon, London – now called The JJ Mack Building. This includes a Category A office fit-out with the latest in integrated building services to make the building ‘smart’ and, ultimately, more energy efficient.

Smart technology includes making variables like heating, lighting and security accessible on one network, giving the end user real-time updates of usage and allowing them to control the entire building using just one platform.

This innovation has meant that 33 Charterhouse Street is on track to achieve a BREEAM rating of ‘Outstanding’ – Helical’s first commercial offering to do so – as well as a NABERS five-star rating. It has been designed with sustainability as a priority from its conception, to support the developer’s ambitions of having all new builds net zero carbon in operation by 2025.

SES MEP Installation commenced in July 2021, with handover achieved on 30 September 2022.

Steve Joyce, Managing Director at SES Engineering Services, says,“Smart buildings are revolutionising the commercial sector as the potential to reduce energy costs and personally manage usage becomes an incredibly attractive option to end tenants. Providing this service seamlessly is a true test of engineering ingenuity and we pride ourselves in being able to deliver this capability to clients to such a high standard.”

J S Wright has won a circa £17 million contract for the latest phase of London Dock.

The company has been contracted by St George, the luxury residential brand of the Berkeley Group, to install the mechanical and electrical systems for all 359 new-build apartments within Saffron Wharf.

The block of mixed-tenure apartments is part of a master plan for 1,800 new homes and 180,000ft2 of commercial space on the 15-acre site of the former News International printworks.

J S Wright will play a major role in connecting the existing phases of London Dock by extending its district heating system and mains cold water service to serve Saffron Wharf and future phases.

Works will consist of installing a low temperature hot water (LTHW) distribution system, including a heating substation, and a boosted cold water (BCW) plant room with distribution network, along with a CAT5 cold water service, soil and waste, above ground drainage, and rainwater services.

J S Wright will also equip the site with the fire sprinklers to serve the apartments and commercial areas, as well as extend the hydrant main and wet risers to serve all the cores.

The electrical infrastructure work will include installing mains and submains distribution and containment systems, lighting and external lighting. Fire alarms, access control and CCTV, TV, data and phone systems, and electric vehicle chargers are also part of the package.

The homes will in turn be fitted out by J S Wright with hot and cold-water services, heat recovery ventilation, radiators and underfloor heating and cooling services via VRF fan coil units.

J S Wright will also provide the homes with all their electrical systems including lighting, small power, fire alarms and door entry systems.

Work on site is scheduled to start in late 2022, with completion of the contract due in early 2025.

J S Wright, jswright.co.uk

SES Engineering Services, ses-ltd.co.uk

POWER SECURITY DELIVERED FOR NORTHAMPTON GENERAL HOSPITAL

WB Power Services (WBPS) has created a long-term standby power solution for Northampton General Hospital, which will provide life-saving power in the worst-case scenario of a power failure for its main operating site.

The bespoke project consisted of the installation of six prime rated generator sets, a fuel management solution, equipment removal and refurbishment and the installation of a plant room. As a healthcare facility, there also needed to be significant noise control, so the scheme included control systems for ease of management and maintenance.

The diverse installation was delivered in three clear phases, spanning the supply, installation and commissioning of three Kohler generating sets; the second phase saw the removal of two existing generating sets, with the final phase focusing on additional generator set installation, equipment removal, civil works and generator installation.

WBPS Managing Director, Andy Wilmott, says, “The successful installation of the new generator sets and supporting equipment will ensure that Northampton General Hospital can continue to deliver seamless care in the event of a power failure. Our team also provided formal onsite training to the hospital’s engineers as part of the overall project delivery, helping its team maintain and manage the installation without external support.

“Not only was the installation a success, the WBPS project team delivered the complete solution on time and to budget.”

Following the completion of the installation, the sets were commissioned utilising a restrictive load bank test. This was conducted by WBPS’s in-house commissioning team over a 10-day period.

WB Power Services, wbpsltd.co.uk

ANOTHER MAJOR REGIONAL PROJECT WIN FOR TCLARKE

TClarke has won the full MEP installation contract for the environmentally outstanding, 150,000ft2 Tempo Maidenhead office development.

Group CEO, Mark Lawrence, comments, “This is an excellent, large scale engineering services project, won by our UK South team, operating from our Peterborough office. It is another demonstration of our ability to deliver the kind of growth we set out to achieve in our strategy by winning major regional projects.”

Tempo Maidenhead targets very high sustainability standards, including a BREEAM ‘exceptional’ rating. To get there, the building will use no natural gas for heating and instead rely upon electrically driven air source heat pumps. Tempo’s design is optimised to include 237 PV panels (totalling over 5,500ft2) which is combined with enhanced fabric performance to reduce energy use by over 23% when compared to ‘business as usual’ energy performance targets set out by both LETI and RIBA.

Tempo benefits from new, efficient glazing and the existing stonework to the facade will be sensitively retained in order to reduce the embodied carbon of the refurbishment.

TClarke’s package includes LV distribution, CAT A fit out, including lighting, fire alarm, small power, CCTV, access controls, heat pumps, fan coil units, domestic water services and ventilation.

TClarke, tclarke.co.uk

PROTECTING THE PIAZZA LUCIO DALLA

The Piazza Lucio Dalla in the Comune di Bologna, Italy, is a covered square of 5,882m 2 that was restored and inaugurated in the summer of 2022. The square hosts a range of events and entertainment for people of all ages, including concerts, theatre performances, street food and children’s workshops.

As part of the restoration, the city authorities realised the need for a video surveillance system that could monitor the square in all conditions, morning and night. Wisenet Q Series PTZ cameras were chosen due to their reputation for durability and robustness, the image quality delivered and the complete integration with the monitoring system already in use in the control rooms.

The cameras are installed across the square, with pan, tilt, and zoom cameras chosen to move easily across the square when investigating an event or tracking a person of interest. The cameras provide up to 23x optical zoom, with IR LED to monitor images clearly in low light conditions. They can identify objects up to 100m away in Full HR resolution.

The cameras also come with built-in analytics, including motion detection, directional detection, virtual line, enter/exit, and tampering, to allow more accurate control by the authorities and the operators.

The system integrates with Genetec Security Center Video Analysis, and video feeds are monitored by the local police operational centre. Hanwha Techwin, hanwha-security.eu

Introducing Three Phase range of Defender B Boards, complementing our Defender 1.0 & 2.0 Consumer Units.

Introducing Three Phase range of Defender B Boards, complementing our Defender 1.0 & 2.0 Consumer Units.

Introducing Three Phase range of Defender B Boards, complementing our Defender 1.0 & 2.0 Consumer Units.

• Tested in accordance with IEC 61439-3

• Tested in accordance with IEC 61439-3

• Extension enclosures, metering kits & surge protection available

• Tested in accordance with IEC 61439-3

• Extension enclosures, metering kits & surge protection available

• Tin plated busbar, improved connection, prevention of copper oxidisation

• Extension enclosures, metering kits & surge protection available

• Tin plated busbar, improved connection, prevention of copper oxidisation

• Fully shrouded neutral terminals

• Tin plated busbar, improved connection, prevention of copper oxidisation

• Fully shrouded neutral terminals

Tested by an independent reputable laboratory

• Fully shrouded neutral terminals

• 4 to 16 triple pole ways

• 4 to 16 triple pole ways

Tested by an independent reputable laboratory

• Single phase conversion kit

• 4 to 16 triple pole ways

• Single phase conversion kit

• Busbar short circuit withstand rating Icw 20ka 0.25s

• Single phase conversion kit

• Busbar short circuit withstand rating Icw 20ka 0.25s

• IP4X with door and DFC fitted

• Busbar short circuit withstand rating Icw 20ka 0.25s

• IP4X with door and DFC fitted

• IP2X with all devices and blanks fitted with covers off

• IP4X with door and DFC fitted

• IP2X with all devices and blanks fitted with covers off

• IP2X with all devices and blanks fitted with covers off

www.contactum.co.uk

JTL has recently opened five new training centres. All five of the new centres are now actively recruiting apprentices at locations in Hull, Worthing, Eastbourne, Norwich and Telford. All sites deliver JTL apprenticeships in electrical engineering, with the sites in Hull and Norwich also offering apprenticeships in plumbing and heating.

JTL works with employers to provide the training to support their apprentices with off-the-job learning and the knowledge elements of their apprenticeship programme, including both classroom and practical workshop learning, as well as monitoring and assessing apprentices in the workplace.

JTL also supports the apprenticeship process in matching learners with a local employer, providing a dedicated training officer and supplying each learner with a free toolkit and study books.

Employers that take on JTL apprentices receive assistance with the hiring process, guidance on the financial support available to them, and the management of the apprentice’s continued performance via a dedicated training officer.

JTL, jtltraining.com

With soaring energy bills and spiking interest from homeowners for solar PV installations, GoodWe is urging installers to invest in training to ensure they are prepared to meet demand.

The number of small-scale installations, excluding solar farms and large businesses, in May was 11,000, up from 5,000 the same time last year, according to Solar Energy UK. Meanwhile, the number of eBay searches for solar panels and solar power batteries increased by 54% and 134% respectively in June compared with same period last year, The Guardian reported. This wave in interest and installation is expected to increase further as the Energy Price Guarantee (EPG) will run out in April 2023 and consumers will again be exposed to the volatile energy price cap.

To help meet demand, GoodWe has launched a new professional training initiative in the UK. Known as GoodWe PLUS+, the programme is designed to allow current solar installers to sharpen their skills around design, installation, commissioning and troubleshooting of inverters and batteries. It also offers a route into the industry for those looking to add solar energy to their portfolio.

Eugene Lucarelli, Marketing Manager at GoodWe UK, says, “We know interest is surging from homeowners around solar installations, and it’s no surprise given the skyrocketing energy price rises. For installers, this represents a great chance to capitalise on the market’s opportunity.

“This is why we’ve launched our new training scheme and are encouraging installers to sign up. By doing so, they can ensure quicker installation timeframes, and greater confidence in commissioning and troubleshooting. Along with this, they can further increase their knowledge and expertise around complementary solar solutions, such as EV chargers, battery and home storage solutions, hybrid

inverters and building integrated photovoltaics, all of which are set to grow in demand.”

Phased over three separate modules, the GoodWe PLUS+ scheme currently offers live training that can be undertaken in person or virtually. Taught by a professional technical specialist from GoodWe, each module lasts approximately one hour, and upon completion, installers will see receive certification as a GoodWe PLUS+ installer.

“We know the great challenges that are facing the UK’s homeowners and installers right now, and with the payback period for solar rapidly declining because of soaring prices, it makes sense to invest in solar right now,” says Eugene.

“At the same time, we also realise there’s a skills gap in the market and a shortfall of installers able to take on the work, which is where GoodWe PLUS+ comes in.

“With our scheme, not only will delegates achieve recognition as a GoodWe PLUS+ qualified installer, but they will also be well equipped to answer homeowners’ enquiries on the latest technologies. With GoodWe’s portfolio as well, installers have access to a complete solar solution and benefit from dealing with one manufacturer and one single point of contact for any technical enquiries or after sales support.”

GoodWe, emea.goodwe.com

Preparing

Jason Cooney, Director of Tsaks Consulting UK advises

Electrical tenders often come with strict criteria that must be met according to industry regulations and project specific requirements. When bidding for electrical contracts, the quality of your services and the prices you offer are going to be similar to your competitors, and evaluators are going to be assessing numerous bid submissions. Apart from showing that you are an experienced and licensed electrical provider, who is compliant with all regulations, it is important to make yourself stand out with a well-planned and professional bid submission that demonstrates how you will provide real value. So, what can you do to win?

Here are some helpful tips to win your electrical bid:

Carefully read the documentation and understand the requirements

Having a clear understanding of the client’s needs and what they are looking for better places you to write a compelling bid that will be appreciated by evaluators. Having a thorough understanding of the documentation also ensures you will satisfy all their technical and delivery concerns. It will also be a good guide for you to assess your ability to fulfil these requirements.

If, for example, you are bidding for a maintenance tender over a three-year period for 22 government buildings, and you only have a team of two electricians, you may not be able to meet the demands of the contract. When putting forward your submission, if you do elect to bid, it would be worth talking about your recruitment processes and how you will recruit new electricians to meet the new demand, should you be successful.

Accreditation and qualifications of staff

Considering that you are applying for an electrical tender, the most important step in ensuring your progress is demonstrating your accreditation and qualifications from relevant industry bodies. Failing to add these items guarantees you not passing the initial selection stage. When you put forward your staff bios, ensure you tailor their experience to the type of project you are bidding for. For example, if you are bidding for a contract to refurbish and rewire a number of schools for the government, put forward your experience working on government jobs and any projects in the education sector.

The importance of timing and the value of your service

Most electrical tenders are part of construction projects with strict deadlines. It is vital that you gain the clients’ confidence by demonstrating your experience and ability to fulfil everything set out in your submission. When you write your methodology to outline how you will deliver the project, ensure that it is feasible and achievable. This will help

build credibility in the eyes of the reader. Also, elaborating on the expertise you have to complete the project above the clients’ expectations proves your value, especially if your price is higher than your competition.

Detailed management information

For tenders that do not have deadlines and are focussed on providing ongoing maintenance services, you need to present a detailed management information (MI) plan. This is one way to put you ahead of your competition, as many businesses overlook this important aspect of documenting activities, interactions, and relationships their company has during the lifecycle of the contract. Providing evidence of how you have successfully used MI for previous projects will prove to the client your ability to provide high-quality services.

Using your previous experience and testimonials

Providing testimonials and case studies from previous projects you have completed successfully will make the procurement teams job much easier when choosing you as their next service provider. Showing evidence from organisations similar to theirs will tick a lot of boxes when it comes to risk management concerns. Provide detailed and accurate information on the services you provided, the problems you faced and how you solved them.

Remember, when providing a case study, you want to showcase the broad range of capabilities your company utilised to deliver a project similar in depth and scale to the project you are bidding for.

Putting it all into writing

The most important part of a successful bid is gathering all the information and experience above and organising it all into a concise, positively written document, tailored to the project.

The evaluating team will be made up of highly professional and experienced electrical and procurement professionals. A high-quality bid strategy will put you ahead of your competitors at each step.

INTELLIGENT FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM CREATES A DISTURBANCE-FREE ENVIRONMENT FOR HYLO

Once just a 15-storey square building, the HYLO tower is now a 29-storey monolith that proudly joins the ranks of London’s tall towers. Located in central London, it offers 261,000ft2 of prime office space. Construction to extend the original 16 floors by a further 13 started in 2018 and was completed in 2021.

Astate-of-the-art building such as HYLO needed the equivalent standard of fire detection system to protect its occupants and effectively manage any potential fire event, which is why Siemens’ Cerberus PRO range of detection equipment with ASA technology was selected.

For the HYLO project, partner GBE:Converge was selected by construction firm, Mace, to design, install and commission the tower’s fire detection system using Siemens’ advanced fire detection products.

The project

GBE Converge was engaged to manage the life safety system for the commercial areas of the building. Dave Collins, Contracts Manager at GBE:Converge, says, “The scope for us was to supply, install and commission the entire life safety system, which included a Public Address and Voice Alarm (PAVA) system, an enhanced audio system to the reception area, an emergency evacuation system, and the fire detection system. We decided to collaborate with Siemens for fire detection and it worked perfectly for this project.”

The challenges

Throughout the original design of the building, GBE:Converge discovered metal mesh ceilings in some areas. The project team was unsure as to whether smoke would penetrate the mesh so had to go back to the plan, get all the details about the ceiling and find a solution. Once researched it was identified that the free area of mesh was sufficient to facilitate air/smoke flow to detector.

The basement and lift shafts proved a challenge for accessibility for installation and future maintenance using point detection, with the team therefore adapting the design to include aspirating smoke detection in these locations.

Importantly, the system was to also incorporate phased evacuation. Necessary for high rise buildings, evacuation first takes place on the floor where the alarm is triggered and the floor directly above it, a process which is critical to preventing congestion on staircases.

The solution

The design of the fire detection system was the remit for the GBE:Converge design team who liaised closely with Siemens to select the best products for the system. Central to the design was Siemens’ Cerberus PRO control panels and range of C-NET devices, which provided an L1 category of detection to meet the British Standard Code of Practice BS5839-1:2017.

GBE:Converge says that it chose the Cerberus PRO range of detection equipment due to the versatility, false alarm immunity, ability to manage complex cause and effect, as well as the aesthetic appearance of all automatic fire detection devices being similar, regardless of their function.

Installed on-site were 10 Cerberus PRO fire alarm control panels that were networked to each other and with the main fire alarm repeater panel located in HYLO’s management room. The room is occupied by an operator on a 24-hour basis who receives a signal from the main fire control panel when there is an alert on the system. The main fire alarm panel itself is installed in the fire control room and is supported by a fireman’s indication panel and fire microphone to allow the fire service to broadcast manual instructions when needed.

Also incorporated in the system were Siemens’ smart detectors with ASA technology. These are intelligent, multi-criteria detectors that check for heat and smoke by utilising two optical sensors and two heat sensors. In building locations such as kitchen areas where steam from a kettle or burnt food could provoke a false alarm, an ASA detector will know there is no real fire and disregard the event as a threat.

When a fire detection system is subject to frequent false alarms, building occupants get complacent, their reaction speed is slower and ‘fire alarm apathy’ occurs which can create potentially life-threatening situations. The GBE:Converge design included Siemens false-alarm-free sounder beacons that perform their own automatic 24-hour self-tests to check the optical and acoustic element of the device. The tests are silent which means office occupants do not know that they are happening and can enjoy a disturbance-free working environment.

A report of the device’s overall performance is transmitted to the main fire control panel so if there is a fault or a change to performance level, the user has the opportunity to scope issue and plan a solution.

The outcome

Thanks to the intuitive system design and the installation delivered by the GBE:Converge team, together with the Siemens advanced fire detection products, the occupants of HYLO enjoy an interruption-free environment. Their safety is assured on a daily basis by intelligent fire detection technology that is compliant, connected and integrated with other life safety systems.

Dave concludes, “Following the successful installation and commissioning of the system and comprehensive training provided for its users, GBE:Converge have been awarded the ongoing maintenance contract which demonstrates that our collaboration with Siemens resulted in a happy and satisfied customer.”

Siemens, siemens.com

GBE:Converge has been awarded the ongoing maintenance contract

“The GBE:Converge design team liaised closely with Siemens to select the best products for the system”

STAYING ON TOP IN AN UNSETTLED ECONOMY

CW: Tell us about yourself and how you got into the sector.

PK: I am 48 years old and live in Stratford-Upon-Avon with my wife and two children. I’ve been with my wife for 30 years, and we are proud parents of two boys aged 21 and 18. Born in Birmingham, where I lived until moving to the Brighton area, aged 30, where I joined the Volution Group (in 2004), I feel privileged to lead a happy life.

I joined the sector straight from school in 1990 when I started with MEM 500V (now known as Eaton Electrical) on a four-year engineering/commercial apprenticeship.

I worked in every area of the business while attending day release at college where I studied business studies, finance,

economics and marketing. At the end of my apprenticeship, I took on the full-time role of Applications Engineer for miniature circuit breaker systems. I continued my studies, attaining my City & Guilds in Electrical Installation.

I later joined MEM’s largest customer in 1995 – the Distributor – Newey & Eyre, where I was responsible for the Lighting Fixtures and Lamps product group, for five years. This is where I had my first experience with the lighting industry. My largest supplier was Thorn Lighting. I finished my time at Newey & Eyre as Head of Product Management which was a fantastic learning experience in a great business.

After nine years with Newey & Eyre, I moved back into the manufacturing sector as the Commercial Director of Vent-Axia, a manufacturer of ventilation products, and part of Volution Group.

For the last 18 years I have held board leadership roles, including during the acquisition of the Group as part of an MBO in 2012 and the later flotation on the London Stock Exchange in 2014. I held the Managing Director role for one of the group brands for seven years, culminating in my last role as the Managing Director for the entire Volution Group in the UK & Ireland.

CW: For those who may not know, can you give us an overview of the work that Zumtobel Group does?

PK: The Zumtobel Group offers innovative, high-quality energy efficient lighting solutions, controls and components, and associated services for our customers worldwide.

Our strong brands cover nearly the entire value chain in lighting. Our lighting business involves two well-known brands, Thorn Lighting and Zumtobel Lighting, offering an unrivalled lighting solution to contractors, distributors and projects in the UK. The Group is also self-sufficient in developing controls and technology through our Tridonic brand.

Our core expert application areas include indoor lighting; specifically office, education, retail, health and care, and art and culture. Our expertise in outdoor lighting includes urban areas, street lighting, architecture, and sports facilities.

The Zumtobel Group works to continually improve the quality of its products and processes and optimise cost structures along the entire value

chain. With our own production facilities, including a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the North-East of England and Dornbirn Austria, a competitive global supplier network, we’re known for reliable deliveries and customer-oriented service.

The Zumtobel Group provides solutions that optimise energy use through technology, control and IoT (Internet of Things) data collection. This underpins our sustainable approach to product development, manufacture and distribution of our products.

Over the decades, a unique corporate culture has evolved at our Group and is distilled into our three core values: Passion, Performance, and Partnership. These three values shape our thoughts and actions. They are the driving force behind the realisation of our vision and mission.

CW: Tell us about your new role and what drew you to it – what are you responsible for, and what does the normal working day consist of?

PK: As Managing Director for Zumtobel Group UK & Ireland, I am responsible for the commercial development of the business.

I wanted to work in a company whose products and activities contribute positively to some of the world’s largest social and environmental challenges and where there is great scope for innovation to meet these important needs. I see the lighting industry as having a highly influential role in contributing to the conservation of energy, health and wellbeing, and safety of environments.

I am lucky to have a very varied role, however, a typical working day would include positive engagement with employees and contact with customers –enabling me to stay close and up to date with customer needs, feelings, attitudes and industry developments.

CW: As you are new to the role, what excites you about the challenges ahead?

PK: There are several exciting challenges. We have an opportunity to take stock and ensure clarity on our vision for the future. This includes involving our employees in the journey and establishing a clear purpose for the business that all employees can relate to and that helps drive us collectively towards our goals and objectives.

Carly Wills talks to Zumtobel Group UK & Ireland’s new Managing Director, Paul Kilburn, about his previous roles and his plans for the future of the company.

Paul Kilburn

There is a clear need to ensure our markets are fully aware of the technology available to optimise lighting and energy efficiency. We want to be at the forefront of education and training in the sector and develop tools that make it quick and easy for our customers to make the right product and technology choices.

We have new products to launch and several markets where we plan to become more active. This will be exciting for our manufacturing, engineering, sales and marketing teams.

Digitisation in how we run our business and interact with our customers is at the forefront of our thinking, and several investments are already in hand. Data and intelligence will help us improve our sales effectiveness and the support we need to offer our customers.

Ensuring legislation continues to promote the use of the most efficient and effective lighting solutions is incredibly important, and we plan to lead within the trade associations we are a member of. A good example is the phasing out of T5/T8 fluorescent lamps in 2023 and the opportunity this provides contractors to target refurbishment opportunities with their customers, particularly at a time when the cost of energy is so high, and the payback period is significantly reduced.

CW: What is the biggest impact COVID-19 has had on the industry?

PK: This is hard to pin to one factor. I see three fundamental areas of significant impact: The shift to working remotely and work-from-home culture. This has resulted in new means of communication and employee engagement. It has affected the roles of external salespeople, with many physical meetings being replaced by virtual

meetings as their customers spend less time in offices. The remote culture is here to stay, and we must continue to find the best ways to accommodate and adapt our KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) accordingly.

The health and wellbeing of staff have brought work/life balance to the forefront. We have seen an evolution of skills that managers and HR professionals have needed to develop to be more aware of the mental health strains on staff and support mechanisms businesses have introduced to help employees with challenges.

Clearly, as the industry has bounced back from the economic depths of COVID-19, the strain on material availability, material costs, logistics, and the availability/cost of labour has been a massive challenge for the industry. This has driven more detailed considerations on where materials are made and where else they can be sourced. Combined with the industry’s sustainable and circular economy focus, it will be helpful to those who invest in UK manufacturing in the future. This, however, must be aligned with a real focus on attracting workers to the sector through diverse engagement, education, training and opportunities to develop.

CW: Coming from an electrical background, aside from COVID-19, what have been the biggest changes across the industry in recent times? What will be the biggest changes in the future?

PK: Across the electrical industry, various changes to legislation have driven the use of more energy efficient products and innovations, such as building regulations and the eco-design directive.

Energy efficiency will continue to be the bedrock of future change. However, I see the focus moving towards IoT technology

that will build instantaneous controllability to underpin the core technology. IoT will also lead to more detailed access to data that will help shape energy efficiency and other aspects of building use. Circular economy factors such as materials used to manufacture fittings, where fittings are manufactured, and recyclability will also shape the industry’s future.

CW: What is your vision for the next six months?

PK: Lots of learning relating to the industry, products and technologies, lots of relationships to be built internally and externally, strong employee engagement, achieving great clarity on our business purpose and the development of the initiatives, in conjunction with our staff, that will support our ambitions and longer-term vision. All this while staying on top of the more immediate challenges the business may face in the unsettled economy.

CW: From what you have seen so far, what are the most exciting products or technologies coming to the market?

PK: Without a doubt, controls, wired networked solutions, IoT, intelligence and data solutions.

CW: What are your interests away from work?

PK: Away from work I enjoy various forms of fitness, from running, tennis and spin to my main passion, football. Playing with my over 35’s team, watching my son or watching my team – Birmingham City. I also enjoy travelling, spending time with friends and eating out.

Zumtobel Group, z.lighting

“Energy efficiency will continue to be the bedrock of future change. However, I see the focus moving towards IoT technology that will build instantaneous controllability to underpin the core technology”

Durham Cathedral lit by Thorn Lighting

getting darker, electricians up and down the country will still be ensuring our electrical systems are safe and secure – and C.K Tools has developed the perfect partners for those low-light conditions.

Manufactured in Germany from premium quality chrome vanadium steel, C.K Tools’ Dextro Glo VDE screwdrivers have unique phosphorescent handles which give off a strong, highly visible glow when working in reduced light. Not only that, but the screwdrivers are also VDE certified, giving them the highest form of independent safety testing and accreditation in the electrical trade, with every screwdriver tested to 10,000v. C.K Tools’ Dextro VDE Screwdrivers were developed and designed to provide the ultimate comfort and control. With a long, fine neck for precise fingertip adjustment, ridges on the screwdriver head also deliver the perfect ratio of torque when it’s actually needed on the last quarter turn.

C.K Tools’ brand new Wide Field Head Light (T9630) ensures greater visibility and safety when accessing wires or cables in dark

The five-piece set includes:

• 1 x slotted parallel, sizes: 3.5 x 100mm, 4.0 x 100mm and 5.5 x 125mm

• 1 x PZ, sizes: 1 x 100 and 2 x 125mm

and confined spaces. The COB LED head light comes with four modes of operation – spotlight, widefield, full beam, and dipped beam – providing the versatility needed to suit all manner of environments electricians find themselves in. More importantly, the head light performs at a high CRI (Colour Rendering Index) rating of 80, which means it can more closely project the true colour of the object it is shining on – critical when working with coloured electrical wires in dark spaces.

For over 100 years, C.K Tools has been at the forefront of hand tool manufacturing and develops its products in collaboration with trade professionals, ensuring they are engineered for long-life performance and safety – and these competition prizes are no exception.

October Competition

LEDVANCE SHINES A LIGHT ON STORAGE AND PRODUCTION SOLUTIONS

LEDVANCE is showcasing a range of lighting solutions to satisfy the unique requirements of production and storage facilities. Visual performance, comfort and ambience are key to such environments, and are impacted by the illumination level, quality of glare and brightness distribution of their lighting installations.

The requirements for a lighting system in a storage environment are diverse and a flexible system that can be easily adapted to changes in working processes is essential. The TruSys FLEX DALI system is an ideal lighting control for an entire building that can manage over 1000 individually addressed luminaires across rooms and floors, operated by simply using a pushbutton or app for smartphones/tablets.

Energy-saving LED technology provides continuous operation and homogenous light distribution, with tool-free click into place solutions for easy installation. Flexible application is possible due to a range of different lumen packages and beam angles.

A typical high-bay warehouse is characterised by high ceilings, narrow aisles and hardly any natural daylight. In addition, the large difference in brightness between indoor and outdoor areas produces a high risk of accidents in entrances and exits. Even from an exceptional ceiling height of nine metres, the LEDVANCE High Bay DALI LED luminaires provide uniformly good illumination, and the daylight control of the DALI-2 drivers enables additional potential for energy savings.

The luminaires can be combined with VIVARES DALI light management, including presence and daylight control,

for ultimate efficiency. For harsh industrial environments, the luminaires carry increased shock resistance (IK08), dust-proof design and protection against water jets (IP65).

In a production environment, the demands for a lighting system are varied: from rough manual work to fine assembly activities and visual inspections. The LEDVANCE DAMP PROOF Gen 2 DALI meets all these requirements with its high protection against shock, dust and water. It is fitted with easy to open/close stainless-steel fasteners without sharp edges, and holes for anti-vandalism screws. In a recent installation by LEDVANCE, a production facility measured an increase in illuminance of 20%, coupled with an impressive 68% reduction in energy costs. The luminaires can additionally be combined with VIVARES DALI light management for further energy savings.

Loading areas are often particularly busy at night. With large trucks manoeuvring and goods being loaded and unloaded, the area quickly becomes crowded and difficult to keep track of. This

makes lighting that provides orientation and safety all the more important. The LEDVANCE FLOODLIGHT performance is ideal for loading zones, as well as for facade illumination and lighting close to buildings. Energy savings of up to 90% can be achieved, compared to lighting with conventional technology, and the floodlight offers illuminance of at least 50 lux on average for busier areas. The floodlight also features strong robustness, including protection against moisture.

For facilities looking to retrofit LED lamps into an existing lighting solution, the LEDVANCE LED Tube range is an ideal first step. A stand-out product for production and storage environments is the LED Tube T8EM PRO, which has a full-glass portfolio to protect against bending and a shatterproof protection sheet. The product is VDE certified according to IEC62776 and low flicker according to EU 2019/2020 (SVM ≤0.4/ PstLM ≤1). The instant-on light operates in combination with sensor technology and the lamp also works at low temperatures.

LEDVANCE, ledvance.com

F ind out more at ledvance.co .uk /luminaires

F ind out more at ledvance.co .uk /luminaires

BAD LIGHT MAKES YOU RAGE? BETTER SWITCH TO LEDVANCE LUMINAIRES.

MO RE EFFICIENCY, MORE POWER, MORE VARIETY

MO RE EFFICIENCY, MORE POWER, MORE VARIETY

Energy and resource consumption is increasingly becoming the all-important factor in the professional sector. But with the revised, significantly expanded luminaire portfolio from LEDVANCE you have nothing to worry about. Improved in performance and efficiency and including a number of new products, it offers you and your customers convincing solutions for office, industrial, parking, shop and urban applications – sustainable and economical, functional and with a high quality of light.

Energy and resource consumption is increasingly becoming the all-important factor in the professional sector. But with the revised, significantly expanded luminaire portfolio from LEDVANCE you have nothing to worry about. Improved in performance and efficiency and including a number of new products, it offers you and your customers convincing solutions for office, industrial, parking, shop and urban applications – sustainable and economical, functional and with a high quality of light.

Inspire your customers with LEDVANCE as a strong partner ledvance.co.uk

Inspire your customers with LEDVANCE as a strong partner ledvance.co.uk

LEDVANCE.CO .UK

LEDVANCE.CO .UK

MARSHALL-TUFFLEX HELPS TO KEEP STANSTED TUNNEL’S LIGHTING UPGRADE PROJECT ON TRACK

Opened in 1991 and covering around 1.8km, Stansted Tunnel serves the single, bi-directional track that provides the only rail route in and out of Stansted Airport. A crucial element of the tunnel is the lighting system, which caters for safe passenger evacuation in an emergency and provides light for maintenance teams in the tunnel.

Ad hoc repairs and replacements have been carried out to the lighting, but after 30 years of water ingress and general wear and tear, it was clear that it was no longer

possible to cost-effectively sustain the lighting by simply replacing the degraded or life expired parts. As a result, J Murphy and Sons was awarded the contract to replace the entire lighting, lighting support systems and power supplies for the tunnel.

The upgrade project involves the installation of a new GRP handrail with integral lighting running along the tunnel wall and the steel walkway, emergency lighting and supporting electrical supplies and Marshall-Tufflex’s GRP cable management system. Timings are critical to the upgrade, as work is being carried out to a strict schedule between January 2022 and January 2023, with line closures being restricted to Friday and Saturday nights.

“We had four 50-hour possessions during January and March 2022 which was part of the enabling works and helped us to ensure the project could be completed by the financial year end 2022/2023,” explains Craig Anger, Contracts Engineering Manager at J Murphy and Sons.

“However, when we came to price the GRP tray according to the specification, we found that the nominated supplier had long lead times on its products and wasn’t able to meet our allocated possession dates in January 2022.”

J Murphy and Sons went back to the market and contacted a number of other manufacturers to source a perforated GRP tray but they were unable to meet the possession times against the signed off product specification for the tunnel works. The cable trays had to meet Class 1 fire rating in order to maintain a certain level of fire resistance, whilst still maintaining the

integrity of the cabling. In addition to being suitable for the environment, the cable management systems also needed to have a minimum design life of 25 years.

Marshall-Tufflex was able to provide GRP cable management products that met the specific requirements and the tight installation deadlines. The company’s GRP cable trays are lightweight, long lasting and provide high levels of fire and corrosion resistance, making them ideal for challenging rail environments.

Furthermore, Marshall-Tufflex is registered with the RISQS Railway Industry Supplier Qualification scheme.

During the January 2022 possessions, J Murphy and Sons removed and replaced 1,800m of handrail and installed 1,800m of Marshall-Tufflex’s GRP cable trays. These trays require fewer components and feature interlocking and self-adjusting couplings which made them quick and easy to assemble and install. 45° bends have accommodated changes in level around recesses in the tunnel wall, enabling the tray to run down and underneath the walkway rather than straight across where it would cause a trip hazard.

The lighting upgrade project is due for completion in January 2023, by which time J Murphy and Sons will have installed 1,800m of Marshall-Tufflex’s GRP cable management system to house the cabling for the new handrail with integral lighting, all during limited weekend possessions in January 2022 and January 2023.

Marshall-Tufflex, marshall-tufflex.com

Stansted

Marshall-Tufflex is the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of cable management solutions for commercial, industrial, healthcare and education markets. Available from

up and down the country, the range includes PVC-U systems manufactured using

retain their high quality whilst remaining competitively priced.

www.marshall-tu ex.com

www.marshall-tu ex.com

PLANNING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

Commercial electrical requirements have shifted significantly in the past decade. Increase in demand and the wider use of portable electronics through digitalisation and bring your own device (BYOD) initiatives has given rise to new considerations for planning electrical installations. Here, Simon Pinkney, Offering Management Director for MK Electric, explains how contractors can stay ahead of the market.

The move to BYOD has been a long time in the making. Data from Statista indicates that 45% of UK businesses permitted BYOD programs in 2018. The global BYOD market is projected to be valued at US$587.3 billion by 2030, reflecting a wider business acceptance of personal devices in the workplace. This growth is, in part, driven by tightening budgets – something that is particularly evident in the education sector.

Schools and universities have faced tighter budgets for many years. In fact, ahead of the pandemic, a report by the School Cuts coalition concluded that more than 80% of schools would have less funding per pupil in 2020 than they did in 2015. BYOD programs made equipment costs more manageable for schools and universities, which is why such initiatives have proven popular – according to 2019 research, 80% of students and 79% of staff at UK universities were already using their own devices. Post-COVID-19, this is even more important as a means of providing students with uninterrupted access to material via their devices, at a time when absences remain high.

Contractors have an essential role to play in facilitating the rise in BYOD, as well as the broader increase in the number of electronics in buildings. Charging these devices requires more cable runs and effective cable management to support

suitable availability of electrical and data outlets where they are needed most.

Often, this will need to be installed quickly with minimal disruption, which typically makes retrofitting PVC trunking on perimeter walls the best option compared to alternatives such as channelling walls. This means electricians need to consider the installation environment when choosing an ideal cable management solution. For example, running trunking around corners requires consideration of how much bend is permissible without exceeding the bend radii required for Cat 6, 6a and 7 cable compliance.

Addressing installations in this way only accounts for the short-term requirements of a building. As technology develops, so too do the requirements of buildings catering to numerous devices. A prime example of this is the trend towards USB-C, which is quickly becoming the norm for charging and data transfer in portable devices, owing to its high data transfer rates and capacity to carry up to 100W of power. As such, commercial electrical installations are increasingly involving the use of USB integrated sockets. This is just one example; in terms of cable management, having the flexibility to support various cable types such as Cat 6 and Cat 7 is invaluable.

Meeting the present and future demands of installations does not need to be costly or time-consuming for contractors. As with any project specification, selecting the right products for the job is key.

For trunking, the ideal product would be a versatile PVCu trunking that can be installed quickly and easily to improve project delivery times. MK Electric’s Prestige 3D three-compartment trunking is one such range designed to meet these requirements, with features such as ‘open box’ mounting frames and divider knockouts to provide unhindered tool-free cable entry, as well as pre-drilled trunking bases for ease of fixing. The range supports Cat 6, 6a and 7 structured cabling and, for corner runs, can accommodate +/-5° tolerance on 90° bends that eliminate the need to cut or trim the profile to fit.

This trunking also allows contractors to effectively run cabling into USB-C integrated socket outlets. When considering Part M of the Building Regulations, MK offers products than can support, for example, its Logic Plus USB-C Integrated socket that is available in a choice of white or graphite finishes. Additionally, Prestige 3D coloured socket spacers and flanges are also available.

It may not be immediately apparent, but contractors can play a key role in helping businesses meet the growing electrical requirements and demands emerging from BYOD programs. The key to this is recommending the best products for the job. Luckily for electricians, this doesn’t need to add to project costs – specifying properly can bring lasting benefits to customers and contractors alike.

MK Electric, buildings.honeywell.com

“Contractors can play a key role in helping businesses meet the growing electrical requirements and demands emerging from BYOD programs”

DELIVERING RAPID CHANGE IN OFFICE ENVIRONMENTS

Workplaces continually evolve, but the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and rapid technological innovation are accelerating the process. The question is how can specifiers predict the right power distribution strategy for smart buildings, as innovative technologies continue to drive change?

Out with the old…

As most building services consultants will have found, there is high demand for technology that can assist with reconfiguration and upgrade projects, as more and more occupiers adopt hot desking and hybrid home/office working models. As a result, there has also been a significant trend for flexible power distribution layouts to be installed in co-working environments and serviced offices.

The key to futureproofing a building services upgrade is to combine an understanding of the current needs of the occupier with insight into evolving trends. Wi-Fi, virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), Bluetooth and radio frequency identification system (RFID) enabled tech all present the potential for sudden and exponential change.

For buildings already using a powertrack or power hub power distribution system, adjusting to new working practices is easier because they are designed to enable adaptations during the lifespan of the installation. Additional tap-offs and/or a reconfiguration of the tap-off scheme allows a revised layout of floor boxes and grommets, sockets and workstations to be carried out quickly and easily.

Energy saver

Developers, landlords, owners and occupiers are increasingly accountable for the environmental performance of commercial buildings. Therefore, it’s important that a power distribution system reduces the potential for waste, so using one with a proven extended service life, and which can be reconfigured or scaled-up as required, is an ideal response.

Automated or manual switching is another solution for more sustainable power distribution networks. Bespoke solutions can be configured that enable an ‘all off’ power down out of office hours. It is likely that this type of energy saving solution will become more commonplace as occupiers continue to implement carbon reduction plans.

Staying the course

Environmental performance must be balanced with resilience, however. For commercial office occupiers in sectors that rely on mission critical computerised systems, such as the banking and broadcast industries, the ability to switch from the main distribution to the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) may also need to be incorporated in the power distribution system design.

This can be done using either a powertrack or power hub distribution system, with colour coded tap-offs to ensure each feed is easily identifiable. With continued volatility in the energy sector, there is potential to see an increasingly strong focus on resilience over the next few years, so dual feed installations may become more commonplace.

How low can you go?

Unlike contemporary buildings, where floor voids have usually been designed with sufficient capacity for the level of services required, heritage or older buildings often have shallow or uneven floor voids. This sometimes means that they are unsuitable for a powertrack system because the tap-offs are made to the top of the track and require sufficient clearance for maintenance or reconfiguration.

The conventional response would be to opt for a hardwired electrical network or to raise the floor to increase the void space, but this could compromise headroom. A power hub system provides a convenient alternative to a conventional powertrack and overcomes the issue of shallow or inconsistent floor voids, while offering the same ease of installation, maintenance and reconfiguration benefits.

Problem solver

Power hub systems have tap-offs located to the side of each unit, rather than above, and combine compact hub units with flexible metal conduits, which connect the hubs together to create the electrical distribution network. Metal flexible conduits provide cables with mechanical protection, allowing compliance with Wiring Regulation 543.7, and power hubs can be specified in four-way and six-way units.

Tap-offs use BS EN 61535 compliant connectors in a metal housing to ensure a secure and safe connection. A choice of tap-off units allows electrical supply to be routed to the required locations, while minimising the number of hub units required, thereby keeping costs and installation time down and optimising void space. Additional hub units or tap-offs to existing units can be added to the installation at any time, allowing commercial environments to adapt.

Readiness for change

The impact of the pandemic, technological innovation and the emergence of jobs that never previously existed are all accelerating change. Building services need to be ready to adapt, so building the flexibility to reconfigure existing power distribution networks without time-consuming, expensive and wasteful strip-out is vital.

CMD, cmd-ltd.com

Paul Allen, Head of Power Distribution at CMD, explains the need for flexibility regarding the specification of power distribution systems in the commercial property sector, as it continues to adjust to new working cultures and practices.

It is important that a power distribution system reduces the potential for waste.

CABLE GLAND INSTALLATION STANDARDS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

By reinforcing vulnerable connection points between cables, or from a cable to a device, cable glands can ensure that these systems operate consistently and efficiently with minimal wear. For challenging applications, glands can also provide significant ingress protection against heat, water, foreign objects and other elements, which makes them fundamental to the safety and efficiency of a variety of setups.

The basic advantage of a cable gland is that it relieves pressure on a connection by gripping a cable (which can prevent disconnection and reduce the wear and tear that connections can otherwise experience) and ensure that signal transmission remains strong across the connection. Glands provide grounding, bonding and sealing protection that supports signal transmission and, beyond this, there are many glands on the market that provide specific benefits for complicated or niche applications – so, while in some cases a cable gland is an add-on, in other cases it is an absolute necessity.

In order to gain the maximum benefit from a cable gland (especially if your system needs high levels of ingress protection, heat resistance or other technical advantages designed to mitigate risk), you need to ensure that it is installed correctly. Understanding the International Electrotechnical Commission’s (IEC) standards for the manufacture and installation of cable glands can help to make sure that a system meets the utmost requirements in terms of safety and efficiency.

Here, Scott explains some of the ways that you can ensure you are using the right cable glands for each application, and outline the installation standards that can help you to maintain safe and effective practices when upgrading a system.

Identifying the correct gland

If you are responsible for purchasing components, Scott advises that you source all of the parts you need from the same manufacturer, wherever possible. If you are upgrading an existing system, this might mean doing some research to determine where the original components were bought, or in some cases it may be easier to replace all of the parts at the same time. While parts from different manufacturers should be compatible, you can benefit from maximum efficiency in the system by using matching components.

The other consideration should be the specific requirements of the individual system in which you are installing the gland. For example:

• Will it be situated outdoors, and therefore require extra protection from inclement weather or other elements?

• Will the system need resistance to extreme high or low temperatures, or sudden temperature changes?

• Is there a risk of explosions or fire?

• Could the system or connection interact with corrosive substances?

Cable glands can offer additional protection against any of these risk factors, but rarely all of them, and so you will need to identify which requirements your components must meet. You may also decide to fit a cable gland with an earthing tag or clamp, where applicable.

The final considerations are straightforward practical concerns –making sure that the gland you choose is the right size to accommodate the cable, for example – and it is important not to overlook these specifications among the other considerations you are making.

International standards for cable glands

Like with all electrical components, there are international design and safety standards for cable glands that aim to set minimum requirements for effectiveness, reliability and safety.

The IEC’s technical standards for cable glands are followed in most countries around the world, and these will be explained in more detail below. In some

cases, different standards may apply, but Northern Connectors would typically advise that you ensure that any products you purchase meet the relevant IEC standards, which are often compatible with local standards. For example, the US uses the American Wire Gauge (AWG) standard to indicate the cross-sectional area of a cable, but each AWG value can be converted to a metric value to ensure parts are compatible and meet the IEC’s standards.

The main IEC standards for cable glands in the UK are called EN 62444:2013, which govern the construction and performance of these components. It is good practice to familiarise yourself with these standards before undertaking any work related to the installation of cable glands. The standards also detail tests through which you can demonstrate the reliability and safe installation of components.

Additional standards are also available for some of the more challenging applications alluded to above, and you must be aware of and meet these standards if they apply to your network or system. For example:

• IEC 60079, for applications and environments where there is a risk of explosions

• IEC 61892, for mobile and fixed offshore applications where there is a risk of water ingress

• IEC 60092, for all electrical installations in ships

A final consideration that might help to ensure that installation is carried out safely is to perform a risk assessment. This can not only help to identify any potential dangers unique to a particular setup, but can reduce your legal liability in the unlikely event that something goes wrong with the installation.

For example, while you may be very familiar with the requirements of electrical safety during installation, there are other factors that could pose a risk to your components. Exposure to solvents, chemicals, dirt or other foreign bodies can all contaminate a gland and render it unable to function correctly, or create a fire hazard or other risk. If the cable is screwed together too tightly, this can also damage threading or make it difficult to replace the component whenever necessary. However, with all of these factors taken into consideration, you can ensure that you select the right component for every application and install it according to the highest standards of safety.

Northern Connectors, northern-connectors.co.uk

Though they are sometimes overlooked, cable glands can be a vital part of many different types of industrial networks and systems, writes Scott Jones, General Manager of Northern Connectors

In order to gain the maximum benefit from a cable gland, you need to ensure that it is installed correctly

“Like with all electrical components, there are international design and safety standards for cable glands”

‘SMART’ ENOUGH TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reported that the energy crisis is hitting UK households harder than any other country in Western Europe. It’s due to the UK’s heavy reliance on gas to heat homes and produce electricity. Gas is currently in short supply in the UK too, and Russia’s war in Ukraine has sent the commodity price soaring, writes Chris Mellor-Dolman, Head of Marketing at Webro Cables

According to the McKinsey Global Energy Perspective report 2022, buildings consume a staggering 42% of total energy across all sectors in the EU – ahead of transport at 32% and industry at 23%. Space heating accounts for a whopping 52% of those building energy costs. Appliances and lighting are the next biggest energy guzzlers, using an average of 18% and 12% respectively.

In terms of homes themselves, the most surprising fact is that the UK has the least energy efficient housing stock in Europe. Some 37% of homes were built before 1946, compared to less than 25% in most other European countries. The upshot is that it makes it so much more expensive for people to keep these homes warm and to run them efficiently.

In the face of any crisis, we have to find ways to be resourceful, and to help where we can. Professionals such as electrical contractors and AV integrators have the knowledge, skills, and access to technology to be able to create ‘smart homes’ that would help UK consumers to drive down their energy bills.

For starters, in terms of imparting knowledge there are some very quick and easy changes that can be suggested to customers that can make a significant difference to their household energy costs:

• Smart thermostats provide homeowners with the ability to monitor energy usage and control the temperature – ideally in each room independently.

• Smart plugs are especially useful for those who struggle to remember to switch equipment off when it’s not in use, saving pounds in unnecessary wastage.

• Smart dimmers reduce electricity consumption and extend the life of bulbs.

Dimming lights by just 20% reduces energy consumption in equal measure by 20% too.

• Smart appliances may cost more upfront in many cases, but the difference versus equipment that’s less efficient is soon clawed back, resulting in cost-savings that are enjoyed well within the lifetime of the product.

Once these basics are in place, the next step is to create truly smart homes using integrated systems. It

The ‘smarter’ you make the property, the more cables you’re likely to need

involves premises being installed with lighting, blind, and heating controls to ensure that every square metre is as efficient as possible. This is easiest to do in new builds of course – where legislative requirements within building regulations are making cost-efficiency and environmental considerations mandatory to an ever-greater degree, but retrofitting existing buildings is possible too, in order to make them more energy efficient.

The natural default position for consumers is to get caught up in the seductiveness of smart home technology. This is fundamentally the devices, equipment and even the soft furnishings that are on show in the home – the visual aesthetics if you like, of sleek designer lighting, dazzling blinds, and super slim control panels. What’s not spoken about often, but is vital for the technology to connect them and get them to work as they should, is the plethora of cables of varying types that are needed.

The ‘smarter’ you make the property, the more cables you’re likely to need. This is where ‘smart’ comes into its own in terms of the money spent – on applying the correct cable for each separate function so that it’s fit for purpose. Quality is paramount for long-term reliability, of course, and ensuring that cables are future-proof is essential, so that you’re not having to replace cables as systems get smarter.

There are several brand choices for smart building management that cover the key applications, including KNX, Lutron, Crestron, and Control4. Take light

controls for example. Leading lighting control manufacturers are committed to innovation that leads to energy savings and eco-friendly technologies. Made specifically for lighting applications to manage the balance between daylight and electrical light, light controls don’t only save money, they enhance the home environment and thus quality of life within it.

Given the vast array of choice, you’re best to buy your cables from a specialist cable supplier that understands the product performance specifications of your project. They’ll help you to consider the electrical and certification (CPR, UKCA etc.) requirements, making sure that the right materials are specified in line with safety stipulations.

All buildings have an environmental impact. Moving to a smart home reduces, minimises, and in some cases, negates this impact. Driving building efficiency by turning the lights on at the right time, opening and closing blinds to let in light and keep as much heat in as possible, and using heat when and where it needs to be, is integral to the intelligent management of homes.

By taking this approach, customers can not only enjoy the benefit of costs savings and comfort, they’ll also have the peace of mind that they’re playing their part in driving towards the government’s target for the UK to be net zero by 2050.

Smart thinking, plus smart technology, driven by smart investment, results in smart homes that save money and help to protect the environment.

Webro, webro.com

HOW MODULAR PREFABRICATION CAN HELP ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS TACKLE CONSTRUCTION CHALLENGES

Peter Willsher, Managing Director of RMS Cable Management Systems, discusses the benefits of modular containment solutions

The construction industry, and the delivery of projects large and small, are being shaped by a vast range of factors.

Brexit and the pandemic have intensified labour and product shortages. Cost certainty is becoming much harder to achieve, and the ever-increasing focus on health and safety is shifting construction methods, including reducing hot works on site.

Against this challenging backdrop, there continues to be an intense pressure on the industry to build faster and more efficiently, while maintaining the highest quality standards.

To address these issues, the construction industry and its supply chain is quickly adapting to change. This is fuelling the demand for off-site manufacturing, including prefabricated solutions for building services. Containment modules and risers that are designed and manufactured off site can generate significant benefits. From Unistrut brackets through to fully populated frames, there are many solutions available which can save costs, time, waste and labour, and offer installers known embodied carbon content.

Boosting quality and efficiency

Regardless of the type or size of the modular containment system, it will be manufactured under strict factory-controlled conditions, ensuring consistent quality.

Larger modular systems will also save significant man-hours on site, boosting the productivity of the wider construction programme. For example, RMS Cable Management is currently manufacturing 700 prefabricated risers for a project in London. These have been designed to distribute the power, fire and building management systems for a prestigious commercial and retail development.

Fabricated by the company’s specialist, in-house coded welding team and transported direct to the building, the assembled risers will save more than 10,000 onsite manhours.

The welding part of the process generates a further benefit. Compared to using traditional bolted brackets, which reduce the workspace volume and width load, welding creates up to 40% more capacity for the cable management in the frames.

For another client, the company manufactured prefabricated cassettes for containment, which were then stacked in towers of 13 before being transported to site. This enabled the equipment to be installed five times quicker than traditional methods.

Reducing environmental impact

The government’s net zero targets are shining a greater spotlight on sustainability in construction. Reducing waste is an important contributor, and this is another area where modular containment can help.

The pre-assembly of cable management solutions is carried out to an exact specification, eliminating any waste on site. At RMS Cable Management, sustainability is enhanced through the use of advanced metal recycling facilities. These enable the company to reuse offcuts of materials in its other manufacturing processes. As well as reducing waste during production, this process provides a fixed carbon cost; the company knows exactly how the system has been manufactured and with what materials, and there is no risk of any cost variations as a result of increased waste or additional labour.

There are many solutions available which can save costs, time, waste and labour

manufacturer of cable management systems in the early design stages.

Their expertise and knowledge will guide project teams on the most appropriate solution – whether that is using standard cable management products or systems manufactured off site.

Their input can also shape new solutions that add value to a scheme. For example, RMS Cable Management recently completed a project at a large distribution centre where modular containment had been specified.

By working closely with the customer and defining their needs, the company created a prefabricated cassette module carrier with forklift entry points, enabling 13 modules to be stacked and transported to site. This provided a more efficient delivery method and reduced the risk of any damage with the design, ensuring each module could be safely unloaded.

Partnering for success

The challenges faced by the construction sector will continue to affect the whole supply chain, including electrical contractors. Although there will always be a place for standard cable management solutions, considering a prefabricated modular solution can help electrical contractors to respond to these challenges and deliver significant efficiency, quality and sustainability benefits.

Prefabrication can be beneficial for projects large or small, however, it must be implemented based on specific needs, including those of the project management team. For M&E installations, that is why it is important to engage with a specialist

To make sure the solution ticks all the right boxes, partnering with a cable management specialist is a vital part of the process.

RMS Cable Management Systems, rmscablemanagement.com

Is prefabrication right for your project?

As pressure grows on the construction industry to build faster and more efficiently,

for electrical contractors and their clients.

SAFETY SERVICES — MAINTAINING A SIGNAL

In any electrical installation, it is necessary to give adequate support to cables. The reasons for this are twofold:

• Maintenance of the signal pathway

• Reduce the risk of premature collapse to protect firefighters accessing a premises during a fire

Three specific life safety standards to be considered are:

• BS 5266-1: 2016 Emergency lighting

– Part 1: Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises

• BS 5839-1: 2017 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings Part 1: Code of practice for design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of systems in non-domestic premises

• BS 8519: 2020 Selection and installation of fire-resistant power and control cable systems for life safety, fire-fighting and other critical applications – Code of practice

Other relevant references will be made to the requirements of BS 7671: 2018 Amendment 2: Requirements for Electrical Installations.

Emergency lighting

It is essential that great care is taken when installing cables supplying life safety systems

Emergency lighting systems require installed cables to be able to withstand the effects of fire as well as remain in-situ for a period necessary to ensure safe egress of persons. To address these issues, Clause 8 of BS 5266-1 covers wiring systems and circuits in general.

For self-contained emergency luminaires, there is no recommendation for fire-protected cables (Clause 8.1), and the general requirements of BS 7671 will apply. These include the need to support the wiring system in such a way that it is not liable to premature collapse (521.10.202).

However, where the emergency lighting system consists of a central battery, it is of critical importance that the quality of the installation, the fire-integrity of the cables and their supports is maintained. The risk of a loss of signal, and hence illuminance, is increased where poor installation practices are carried out (Note 1 Clause 8.2.1).

Clause 8.22 of BS 5266-1 details the nature of cable types recognised as being acceptable. This clause details minimum cable survival times ranging from 60 minutes to 120 minutes.

Without suitable survival times for the support of such cables, it will be impossible to ensure circuit integrity. The methods of cable support and fixings should be non-combustible and such that circuit integrity will not be reduced below that afforded by the cable used (Clause 8.2.3). This means, for example, that where a cable is rated as ‘enhanced emergency lighting cables with inherently high resistance to attach by fire’, the support means should also be capable of performing its function for 120 minutes.

Furthermore, where cable management system support is provided by drop rods, the drop rod size should be calculated in accordance with the recommendations of BS 8519.

Fire detection and fire alarm systems

The commentary to Clause 26 of BS 5839-1 recognises that all interconnections must operate correctly at the time of a fire. Clause 26.2 recommends that cables forming part of the critical path conform to certain standards. These include mineral insulated copper sheathed cables, cables conforming to BS 7629-1, and the like.

Like the recommendations of BS 5266-1, Clause 26.2f) of BS 5839-1 recommends that methods of cable support should be non-combustible and such that circuit integrity is not reduced below that afforded by the cable used, and that they should be able to withstand a similar temperature to that of the cable being supported. This recommendation, in effect, precludes the use of plastic cable clips, ties and trunking as means of cable support.

The installer must use appropriate cables and support systems to ensure that critical systems continue to function during a fire

Installation of fire-resistant power and control cable systems for life safety systems

As with both emergency lighting systems and fire detection and fire alarm systems, BS 8519: 2020 addresses the need to ensure cable support systems are adequate to meet the fire survival times of the cables they support.

The recommendations found in BS 8519 are like those detailed in both BS 5266-1 and BS 5839-1. However, additional guidance is provided where a bracket and rod system is used to support safety critical cable systems. Clause 16 of BS 8519 recognises that the strength of steel is adversely affected by fire such that great care should be taken in determining the cross-sectional area of the steel rod drops.

Conclusion

It is essential that great care is taken when installing cables supplying life safety systems, such as fire detection and fire alarm systems, emergency lighting systems and fire-fighting lifts. The installer must use appropriate cables and support systems to ensure that critical systems continue to function during a fire.

Scolmore, scolmore.com

Jake Green, Head of Technical Engagement with Scolmore Group, considers the necessity of maintaining signal integrity for life safety services such as fire alarm systems and emergency lighting systems.

STIRLING COUNCIL TO DEPLOY CONNECTED HOME TECHNOLOGY

Following Stirling Council’s IoT working trial with Aico, a wider rollout which includes environmental sensors to collect information around tenants’ homes will be implemented. Collected data will include temperature, humidity and carbon dioxide (CO2) gas levels, along with smoke detection sensors and will dramatically improve the health, safety and wellbeing of residents.

This is the first full rollout of a multi technology and sensors connected home solution across an entire housing portfolio, and currently the largest UK social housing sector rollout, with 50,000 IoT devices being installed over the next 8-10 years in homes managed by Stirling Council Housing Service.

Environmental sensors around the properties will alert the council in real-time and provide early warning of damp, mould, ventilation and any other potential issues, while helping the tenant to understand energy consumption levels with heating their home. In a time of fuel poverty, connected devices more often seen in private dwellings are emerging as a powerful tool, ensuring social homes are healthy to live in and used in an energy efficient manner. Homes will also benefit from a significant fire safety upgrade and be equipped with connected smoke, heat and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms.

Having the ability to identify the least thermally efficient homes means that Stirling Council as a landlord can take intelligence-led decisions to target capital investment programmes at those properties. The Fuel Poverty Act (Scotland), also seeks to protect residents of all households but particularly those in rural, highland and island communities from facing fuel poverty. Stirling Council has around 20% of its housing portfolio in rural areas.

Stirling Council is just one local authority that is working to implement environmental sensors into social housing properties across the UK. Residents gain access to information on their home’s condition and handy advice on the measures they can take to improve the quality of their home via a dedicated app for residents.

The long term and methodical rollout intended follows a successful pilot project and sees Stirling Council at the forefront of providing tenants with a comprehensive view of the internal air quality environment in their homes. The initial pilot was part of a Scottish Government funded programme called CivTech, which aimed to drive innovation in collaborative and cost-effective technology across the public sector.

Aico and HomeLINK state that across the UK more than 150,000 IoT devices are connected in tenants’ homes and in use by social landlords. Based on current demand, this number is expected to hit one million devices by the end of 2024, bringing about a paradigm shift in landlords’ efforts to comply both with regulations but also in offering tenants a better understanding of their home’s environment.

Several private sector landlords are already using connected IoT devices to pre-empt issues. By connecting all of its housing stock, Stirling Council will continue to make intelligence led and data based decisions when maintenance teams now conduct regular safety checks, and planning staff can identify trends and improvements, plan budgets and make property investment decisions. It will also

trigger preventative maintenance measures by alerting staff to early causes of deterioration in a property’s environment.

Residents using the free app gain a view of the safety and health of their indoor environment. The app also provides advice and guidance on how to improve living conditions and live a healthier and safer life whilst reducing carbon footprint and saving money on energy bills.

Tenant Robert Cairney says, “I was initially sceptical about what the sensors and technology being put into my home would bring in terms of financial or health benefits. However, by recording moisture in the air, I can be alerted to the risk of damp and mould. Rather than having to keep an eye out for these things myself, my landlord also better knows when it is time to come and do repairs or maintenance work on the property.

“This new IoT technology for homes like mine is fantastic because it helps me to feel safer, live in a healthier environment, and reduce costs. I’m more aware of how my home is behaving and I’m alerted to ways I can save money by using this free cutting-edge connected home kit. For example, wasting money trying to heat a home that has gaps in the doors and windows letting heat out, or an inefficient boiler and room heaters that need bleeding. Everyone is concerned about the rising costs of energy but, thanks to these improvements, it’s not a question of eat or heat for me now.”

Aico, aico.co.uk

“Stirling Council is just one local authority that is working to implement environmental sensors into social housing properties across the UK”

THE CONNECTED HOME LIFE SAFETY SOLUTION

CREATING SMARTER , SAFER HOMES

.

Aico with HomeLINK offer a network of alarms and sensors to improve the health and safety of homes throughout the UK.

Fire and Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Our 3000 Series offers full circle Fire and CO protection, wirelessly connecting to the SmartLINK Gateway via Radio Frequency for remote wholesystem data monitoring.

SmartLINK Gateway and App

The SmartLINK App enables quick and easy installation of alarms and sensors with SmartLINK technology, while the Gateway is the central hub for data, extracting information from connected devices.

HomeLINK

Environmental Sensors Monitor temperature, humidity and carbon dioxide to gain insights into indoor environmental conditions to create better maintained, healthier, energy efficient homes.

The HomeLINK Portal Data is extracted from all connected alarms and sensors with actionable insights presented on the portal, segmented by high, medium and low risk.

Find out more at: www.aico.co.uk/ smart-home

The HomeLINK App With the HomeLINK App, residents are provided with a healthy home rating, handy advice on how to improve the quality of their home, and Fire and CO alarm testing reminders.

SMART LIGHTING SOLUTION FOR SCOLMORE HEADQUARTERS

Scolmore Group looked close to home when considering the product requirements for the expansion and total redesign of the showroom and visitor centre at its Staffordshire headquarters.

Originally opened in January 2009, Scolmore’s visitor centre then catered for groups of up to 24 people and was designed as a facility to showcase and demonstrate the growing range of products to customers, as well as serving as a venue to host internal meetings and presentations. As the business has developed, the requirement to invest in the visitor centre and showroom facilities became a high priority.

Now able to comfortably accommodate up to 60 guests at any one time, the facility – which at 180m2 is double the size of the original space – is designed to host a range of events, including product launches and demonstrations, training sessions for customers, as well as corporate and industry events.

One of the key considerations for the refurbishment of the visitor centre was the ability to control the lighting – from an energy efficiency point of view, as well as to offer ease and flexibility of control to reflect the variety of lighting functions and scenes required, depending on the particular event

or activity taking place. Products from across the Scolmore Group of companies were brought together to bring about a smart solution that would stand the test of time. These included Ovia lighting, Click wiring accessories, and CCTV and emergency lighting products from ESP.

The vast ceiling space was divided up into nine main sections to allow for banks of lighting to be installed and controlled –with downlights taking up the centre space along the length of the ceiling and also as spotlights around the edges. This means that various areas of the room can be lit as required, for example, the front part with the screen can be dimmed during a presentation with the back area lit for the candidates’ comfort.

Ovia’s Inceptor Omni fire-rated, integrated LED downlight with pre-wired driver and flow connector was selected, and a total of 40 Omnis were installed for the project. As well as in the ceiling, they were fitted in pairs across the top of the display pods, which are used to group the various product ranges together.

Flexibility and ease of installation are vital attributes of the Inceptor Omni and key features are an adjustable colour temperature switch, interchangeable

Products from across the Scolmore Group were bought together to bring about a smart solution that would stand the test of time

fixed and adjustable bezels, as well as an insulation support clip for use when insulation is present.

Helping to attain the quick and easy installation of the lighting products was Ovia’s Click Flow lighting management system, which was incorporated into the ceiling space. A number of eight-way distribution boxes were used to provide the means to make multiple connections from one box, via a plug and play operation. As well as adding to the speed of installation, it also assists when any future maintenance testing is required.

When it came to control of the lighting throughout the visitor centre, Scolmore’s Click Smart+ system provided an ideal solution, offering both simple and flexible installation and easy programming.

Scolmore’s comprehensive range of Click Smart+ products were created to simplify and streamline connected products –lighting controls, smart sockets, security cameras and sensors. It utilises Zigbee technology – one of the most widely adopted smart home communication protocols.

Total control of the lighting is achievable via the Click Smart+ app. Having control of the lighting contributes to significant energy saving, with energy only consumed when needed. Installation was simple and flexible. No additional cables or wall cutting were required to install the system as the receivers can be installed behind light fittings or into suitable installation boxes and the transmitters are powered by battery, so there was no need for any wiring or additional power supply.

The Click Smart+ controls make it easier to switch and dim wirelessly from preferred locations without the use of switch drops. Each of the pods that houses the various product collections has a dimmer receiver installed, which means the individual pods can be lit up or dimmed as required, for example, when a particular range is being showcased during a presentation.

Katie Plumstead, Group Marketing Manager for Scolmore Group, says, “What this project demonstrates is the ease and relatively inexpensive way we have been able to transform the configuration of the lighting in the visitor centre, not just to control when the lights come on and off, but giving us the ability to bring together groups of lighting and incorporate dimming capabilities in any combination to really add a smart and bespoke element to whatever function the room is being used for.”

Scolmore Group, scolmore.com

SECURE

Yet its popularity persists.

The IoT is empowering transformative use cases in cities, industries and consumer’s homes and its growth seems unstoppable. In fact, Mckinsey estimates that 127 new devices are connected to the internet every second of the day.

Yet those devices are also filled with basic security problems such as hardcoded passwords, insecure components and firmware that can’t update. That could be the reason why in 2021, Kaspersky recorded breaches on 1.5 billion IoT devices. Furthermore, implementing proper security in the IoT supply chain is critical to ensuring digital trust, or that end users have the confidence to use devices securely.

Given the common weaknesses, the explosion of IoT popularity is an increasingly risky proposition. Those incredible capabilities that IoT devices might bring could similarly bring serious risks.

The IoT supply chain

Wherever these weaknesses first emerge, the problem lies within the long and inconsistent supply chain that IoT devices travel from design to eventual release.

Along the way, they’re faced with designs that don’t consider security, insecure components, manufacturers who don’t understand cyber threats and consumers who have no way to tell the difference between a secure and insecure device.

One of the big problems of this situation is that even if most producers within that supply chain act securely, another part of the ecosystem can introduce fatal flaws. One device can be built and designed with secure components, but it may still be shipped with a default password – providing an easy way for attackers to exploit the device.

Similarly, there are few mechanisms to govern that supply chain in its entirety. While there are many IoT standards that can be used, few are authoritative enough to govern the entire supply chain or industry. That may be what is required in order to both seize the possibilities of the IoT, while protecting against the threats that often emanate from it.

A standard for smart homes

One area of IoT – smart homes – may be getting one. Matter is a new standard from the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) which confronts the enduring problems for smart home devices –interoperability and security.

but an ongoing effort to make home automation viable and secure long into the future. Countries continue to produce new regulatory standards and consumer protections on a global scope.

Securing the links in the chain

The Matter standard is explicitly centred around Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). This is important because it allows manufacturers to endow each device with a unique identity. Manufacturers will embed a certificate into a device during the manufacturing process. Then, as that device travels the IoT supply chain, its identity can be verified as a secure Matter-certified device at every link on that chain.

Matter devices will be labelled, empowering consumers to make choices about IoT security

A smart home is meant to be a seamless environment in which a variety of household functions such as connected locks, lighting, cameras, or air conditioning, can be connected and centrally controlled. However, smart home devices are often siloed between vendors, meaning that devices cannot speak to one another or work together.

From that problem, a collection of tech giants and industry bodies have banded together to design Matter – which they describe as ‘an industry-unifying standard to deliver reliable, seamless and secure connectivity.’

Matter is essentially a single Internet Protocol based standard – or language –which certified devices will be able to ‘speak’ to one another and interoperate seamlessly.

Inherent to this standard are significant demands about the security of certified devices. Matter provides a layered approach to security – one which will ensure the privacy, integrity and availability of every transaction that a certified device is involved in. Those provisions are also self-contained, meaning that it will never have to rely on the security of underlying technologies like Wi-Fi.

Certification demands that IoT devices be crypto-agile. Threats to security are an escalating landscape and the standard of protection needs to be flexible and evolve. Matter is not a one-and-done,

One of the key assets that Matter has over other standards is its supporters. The standard is a collaboration between Amazon, Google, Apple and the CSA membership – all of whom hold a huge sway over the broader IoT supply chain. Whether it’s through producing their own hugely popular IoT assistants or being some of the biggest vendors of IoT devices in the world, this collection of innovators may be able to lead the broader supply chain to create more secure IoT devices.

Only when devices have met these Matter security and communications standards can they be certified to interact with other devices, and thus interoperate seamlessly with the leading home automation product manufacturers.

Matter will also be an important marker of quality when consumers are shopping for smart home IoT devices. In many cases, they have no way of understanding the security levels of one device over another. Matter devices will be labelled, empowering consumers to make choices about IoT security and, in turn, creating market incentives to manufacture secure devices.

The road to widespread IoT security will be long, but it still has to be travelled if we want to seize the opportunities that the IoT presents to us. That journey can be accelerated with industry and supply chain wide approaches that account for the various stages of development which devices undergo. The arrival of Matter is a good beginning but there is still more work to go to ensure digital trust in the IoT supply chain.

DigiCert, digicert.com

Intelligent Connection

For high speed charging

USING CONNECTED BUILDINGS TO ACHIEVE COLLECTIVE OBJECTIVES

The first key to success in any business environment is adaptability and the ability to be responsive to situations as they occur. The second is the strength of the connections you make within your business. Genuine connections will allow teams to work harmoniously to meet environmental and societal goals. The same can be said of connected buildings – buildings that are aligned with one another will make meeting common objectives effortless, writes Jamie Cameron, Director of Digital Solutions UK&I & EMEALA, Johnson Controls

Shortly after the pandemic, building safety was at the forefront of many people’s minds; with a heightened awareness of the fact that we spend 90% of our time indoors. With the emergence of the cost-of-living crisis and surging energy costs, businesses are now shifting their focus away from implementing safety in their buildings and towards cost-management strategies. But safety and efficiency can successfully run alongside cost-effective solutions, it’s just a case of utilising the right technology.

Smart buildings play a vital role in efficiency needs, harnessing the power of data to drive building management and ultimately create sustainable, efficient, healthy, and cost-effective environments in which to work. The buildings need to work in human ways; solutions across lighting, security, HVAC, and fire systems should all be interconnected and in dialogue with one another.

Fortunately, a business can implement numerous key strategies to ensure it makes better decisions, saves money, and transforms the spaces and places around it. Here Jamie exemplifies five different ways connected buildings can become a successful reality.

Benefits of open protocol technology

When building systems speak to each other, delivering collective data insights, building managers can help create better business outcomes. This includes reduced energy spend and IT security risk, increased operational efficiencies, and safe, comfortable, and productive environments. To achieve this, when selecting operation technology in the building it is crucial that technology with open protocols is selected. Using standardisation of data formats and communications protocols makes it easier to ensure compatibility across different systems and networks, maintain systems efficiently, and expand capabilities as technologies advance.

When choosing a provider to improve your building, open protocol technology means there is a common language between systems and data. It, therefore, makes it easier and more cost-effective to integrate and expand based on developing needs and technologies. It also enables

simpler integrations between different systems, bringing together a cohesive approach under one common language.

Harness the power of the cloud

The focus on open systems throws up another important consideration for connected buildings. Often the data that exists across solutions are siloed and disconnected, obscuring the bigger picture and limiting building managers to small, incremental changes that prevent them from maximising smart building investments.

To reach this potential, it’s important to get below the surface level of intelligent technologies to unlock the deeper insights they can generate. This happens when we connect smart technology systems together to create an ecosystem or platform for smart solutions. The data and insights this creates can then be analysed to make vast improvements across a building and even the whole enterprise. To make this a reality, the data needs to be connected and easily accessible in the cloud.

From here, it is then possible to move up the data value ladder, unlocking the true benefits of ‘smart’. On the surface level, data can be descriptive, telling us what is happening now. It is then possible to move up the levels; diagnostic, predictive, prescriptive and finally, the zenith of cognitive data where AI and automation come into their own.

Use digital twins

With access to more data through these connected cloud systems, AI and machine learning can be harnessed to optimise building performance across myriad targets.

AI-driven analytics collects building data and applies machine learning to give granular insight into building performance in real-time. This leads to opportunities to save energy and operating expenses while enhancing building environments.

Such systems can also be harnessed in the creation of digital twins. These digital replicas of buildings enable the safe exploration of alternative sustainability strategies – modelling maintenance, upgrades, and sustainability decisions. Research from Accenture found that digital twins and related technologies can be used to cut energy use and carbon emissions in half.

Put human emotion alongside innovation

Talking about building tech alongside humans may sound like an oxymoron, but the two go together. Building engineers and facilities managers need to be innovative and turn to full system design while also understanding what each component in their building does.

It’s important to remember that smart technologies are not just about efficiency and sustainability. They must also work for building occupants and create environments where people can flourish. One immediately noticeable benefit to employees of smart buildings is the increased comfort, convenience, and safety of data-driven buildings, from air quality to temperature and lighting.

Be forward-thinking

Innumerable technological solutions promise to deliver discrete gains, but we need to move away from thinking about single solutions. If we get the technology right in our buildings now, we can transform how we use them in the future. The needs and expectations of users, alongside the global imperative to reach net zero now define the future of our buildings.

To deliver this future, we must start with connections; connecting every system in a building, including fire safety, HVAC, lighting and security, and concentrating on fully formed objectives that make the most of powerful data tools, rich analytics and human oversight. This is not only to ensure we have a great today, but so we work towards a better future.

Johnson Controls, johnsoncontrols.com

Smart technologies must create environments where people can flourish

MANCHESTER METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY SECURES TOP SUSTAINABILITY RATING WITH ABB SMART BUILDING SCHEME

Manchester Metropolitan University is reinforcing its position at the forefront of sustainability with smart building technology. Its new Grosvenor East building is set to inspire upcoming generations of actors, journalists, writers and linguists.

hen it completed the new home for its Faculty of Arts and Humanities in 2020, Manchester Metropolitan University achieved a productive, comfortable and safe working environment. The building also integrates a smart building system capable of providing real-time access to data to support energy efficiency while minimising operational and maintenance costs.

Sustainability is becoming more important in the world of higher education. According to a 2021 survey by Times Higher Education, a university’s sustainability is more important than location for prospective international students. It’s an area where Manchester Metropolitan University excels, as shown by its top spot on the People & Planet League, an environmental ranking of UK universities.

Vice-Chancellor, Prof Malcolm Press, comments, “Sustainability forms an integral part of everything that we do, from our teaching and research to the way that we build and use our campus. We know the

Wenvironment is one of the top concerns for people of all ages.”

Its carbon management plan sets out the university’s strategy to cut emissions by 44% – or 5,051 tonnes of CO 2 –between 2020 and 2026. This includes initiatives to boost energy efficiency and invest in new efficient buildings. For example, the new Grosvenor East building has been certified as excellent under the UK’s Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM).

The six-storey building features a 180-seat theatre space that is capable of multiple configurations, an atrium, TV and radio studios, tuition and rehearsal spaces, as well as a café, bar and restaurant.

In terms of building control, a cutting-edge web-based Building Management System (BMS) provides automated control, as well as 24/7 web browser access to alarms, trends and scheduling for temperature, lighting and air quality. Based on the ABB Cylon ASPECT control platform, this provides backwards compatibility and web connectivity for the university’s installed base of 1200 Cylon Unitron devices and has therefore future-proofed the campus.

“We use energy efficiency and flexible infrastructure to attract students by showing them that we are serious about sustainability,” says Peter Fallon, Chief Engineer at Manchester Metropolitan University. “This relies on web-based technology so that our technicians have access to control and monitor systems wherever they are on campus.”

A key element of the system is the control engine, which is based on ABB‘s Cylon NEXUS device. This enables the BMS to pull data from devices that would otherwise be inaccessible to a web-based scheme and restricted to specific computer terminals. Therefore, the device has improved the system’s reach and capability.

Commenting on the project, Dean Reddy, ABB’s UK Product Marketing Specialist for Building Automation UK, says, “The Grosvenor East building is an important new landmark in Manchester and one of first within Manchester Metropolitan University to use the new ABB Cylon ASPECT so it was positive to see its deployment was smooth. This is important as the smart building control system is one of the final work packages in any commercial building project.”

ABB, new.abb.com

LOCKOUT TAGOUT AND SAFE ISOLATION

Every electrician with experience working on a busy site knows how it feels to take responsibility for the other tradesmen around them. When you are dealing with live electricity there’s no room for calculated risks and educated guesses. The only way you can ensure your own and your colleagues’ safety is by adopting adequate safe isolation procedures.

For electrical systems where the supply has been cut off to allow dead working, Regulation 13 of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 applies as follows:

“Adequate precautions shall be taken to prevent electrical equipment, which has been made dead in order to prevent danger while work is carried out on or near that equipment, from becoming electrically charged during that work if danger may thereby arise.”

This establishes a clear requirement to ensure that conductors and equipment may not be inadvertently energised. In other words, safe isolation.

In practice, this means not only cutting off the supply, but also ensuring the method of disconnection is secured in the ‘off’ position and a caution notice or label is posted at the point of disconnection.

HSE statistics

According to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR), and although it is difficult to know how many of the following statistics were caused by inadequate safe isolation, in the five years between 2017 and 2022, there were 531 non-fatal incidents and 24 fatalities reported to the HSE which were caused by contact with electricity.

The number of fatalities did drop dramatically during 2019 and 2020 due to COVID-19, however, this does translate that you have roughly a one in 22 chance of being fatally injured if you are involved in an electrical incident in the UK. Just to put this into a little more perspective, this is a dramatic difference in comparison to the one in 500 from other causes.

Safe isolation procedures

The only way you can ensure your own and your colleagues’ safety is by adopting adequate safe isolation procedures

With the 18th Edition AM2 now in full effect, safe isolation is continuing to be enforced across the industry, especially by bodies such as NICEIC and NAPIT. Although nothing has changed in the way of the testing requirement on installation test equipment, safe isolation is critical for the safety of yourself and the others around you.

Isolation of equipment or circuits using the main switch or distribution board switch disconnector is the preferred method. The method of isolation should be locked off using a unique key, retained by the person carrying out the work, and a caution notice posted at the point of isolation.

Where more than one operative is working on a circuit, a multi-lock hasp can be used to prevent the operation of the main isolator until such time as all persons working on the installation have completed their work and removed their padlocks from the hasp.

Proving dead isolated equipment or circuits

Following the isolation of equipment or circuits and before starting work, it should be proved that the area you are about to work on is, in fact, dead. The recommended method for doing this is by use of a test lamp or a two-pole tester (as recommended in HSE Guidance Note 38).

The test lamp or voltage detector should be proven to be working on a known live source or a proprietary proving unit. All line, neutral, and protective conductors should be tested to prove they are dead.

Electricians who regularly work on installations that have been energised should be equipped with devices for proving that conductors are dead.

Di-LOG’s latest range of safety equipment for working on LV electrical equipment includes an array of lockout kits, ranging from a simple single MCB ‘Personal Lockout Kit’ for isolation of individual circuits to the industrial ‘Expert Lockout Kit’ with mostly fully insulated lockout devices for virtually all individual and main sources of energisation.

Proving Unit Kits

The DLPK6700 Series includes the DLPK6780 and DLPK6790 Voltage Indicator Proving Unit Kits, incorporating the PU690 voltage indicator proving unit and the DL6700 Series Voltage Indicators. CAT IV rated CombiVolt series of voltage indicators are fully compliant with GS38, BS 612433:2014 and are fully operational to 690V AC/ DC, even when the batteries are discharged.

The Di-LOG DLPK6700 series kits come packaged in the company’s bespoke carry pouch fitted with a durable carrying strap and belt loop making them compact, lightweight, and ergonomically designed.

Di-LOG, dilog.co.uk

David Sweetman, Marketing & Business Development Director at Di-LOG, discusses the importance

of

safe isolation, lockout and tagout.

DOES AN ACTIVE NETWORK SUPPORT POE++ DEPLOYMENT?

hree versions of PoE standards have been published, which are 802.3af ‘PoE’, 802.3at ‘PoE+’, and 802.3bt ‘PoE++’. The minimum amount of power that should be provided to a powered device (PD) for each type is 12.95, 25.5 and 71W respectively, with different classes sub-dividing the power levels (see PoE reference table). Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) such as a PoE enabled switch, or a mid-span injector will deliver a certain amount of power depending on its class.

T

Should the power be below minimum, the fault with the cabling or the PSE/switch needs to be identified. Connect the PoE tester directly to the switch and repeat the PoE load test. If the test passes, the issue lies with the cabling. If it fails, the problems are with the PSE/switch.

If the cable is the source of the failure the first test should be to measure the wiremap and length including any patch cords. If the cabling is shorter than about 125m (410ft), look for the following problems:

• Are there any open pins on the wiremap? Opens reduce the available current that can be delivered to the PD.

• Are any of the patch cords made with 28AWG cable? The small diameter of these patch cords makes their resistance much higher than 24AWG patch cords.

• Check the terminations on the outlet and patch panel for any partially unseated wires. A partial connection can have high resistance while still passing high frequency signals (data). Use a cable certifier to perform a DC resistance unbalance test to be certain. Note, only the latest generation of certifiers like the TREND LanTEK IV-S can measure DCRU.

To test an active link against the standard, a field tester must first identify the class of the PSE, then request the amount of power that the PSE class should deliver. The tester will place a load on the line, simulating a PD while measuring the voltage and current received. Voltage measured under load and watts delivered can be compared to the minimum power specification for the PSE’s class and a determination made as to whether the installation passes or fails the standard.• Is there a consolidation point in the installation? A consolidation point is a connection panel usually in the ceiling or under-floor area that allows for work area outlets to be moved without replacing the entire cable run. This can be another location to look for a lose connection.

• Is the cable constructed of copper-clad aluminum (CCA) conductors? This is aluminum cable with a thin coating of copper. It has relatively low attenuation of high frequency (data) signals but about 54% more DC resistance than pure copper conductors, cutting the effective distance of PoE in half. Check the specifications or cut off a connector and look closely at the end of the freshly cut cable. A CCA conductor will look mostly grey with a thin copper colored ring on the outside. A pure copper conductor will have the same color all the way across its face.

There are two likely causes if testing directly at the PSE/switch fails. First, the port tested may have been configured to limit the power output. On managed

PoE reference table

12.94W 37-57V802.3af PoE 2 pr. 1 4W 3.84W 2 7W 6.49W 3 15.4W 12.95W 4 30W50-57V25.5W42-57V802.3atPoE+2 pr. 5 45W 50-57V 40W 42-57V 802.3bt Type 3 ‘PoE++’4 pr. 6 60W 51W 7 75W 52-57V 62W 51-57V 802.3bt Type 4 ‘PoE+++’4 pr. 8 90W 73W SPECIAL FEATURE TEST EQUIPMENT

switches each port can be set to limit the output power for various reasons. Second, the switch may be over its power budget. A PoE switch has a maximum amount of power it can provide (power budget) which is usually less than the product of the number of ports and the PoE rating. For example, a class six switch must provide 60W at the port. Therefore a 24-port switch would need to provide a total of 1440W if all ports were under full load. Only a high-end, enterprise-grade switch will have such a power budget. At the time of writing, such a switch costs approximately £10,000-15,000. Most small business switches might have a power budget of 500W. On such a switch, only eight ports could provide the full 60W of power while the ninth port would have only 20W available. All remaining ports would not provide any power. The 24-port, 500W switch could provide 21W to all ports simultaneously or another combination with some ports delivering up to 60W and others less.

TREND Networks, trend-networks.com

electricalcontractingnews.com @ElecConNews /electricalcontractingnews @ecn_magazine

FAULT LOOP IMPEDANCE TESTING ON NON-STANDARD ELECTRICAL NETWORKS

For engineers looking to make their safety tests and inspections on these systems, this can cause a problem when using standard test equipment. One such electrification system exists within Network Rail, which operates part of its network at 650V. As standard test equipment can not operate and test live at these voltages, extra work and downtime is needed to be scheduled in order to make the safety tests required. This adds time and costs to the maintenance plans.

The solution to test on a live network was found from the test equipment manufacturer, Sonel. Based in Poland, Sonel provides measurement solutions globally. Working in a large number of countries, the company has been able to build a profile of products capable of working on an extended range of test voltages. Its high voltage high current fault loop impedance meters are suitable for testing on many alternative system voltages, including 110/190V, 115/200V, 127/220V, 220/380V, 230/400V, 240/415V, 290/500V and 400/690V.

This variety of voltages can be seen in Poland, where 690V can be found in industrial applications; in Germany for some of the larger automotive manufactures; and also in larger renewable projects being commissioned across Europe. The Sonel meter’s overall operating voltage range is from 100V up to 750V, making it ideal for the application found at Network Rail and for many others where a traditional loop impedance meter may not be capable of making the required measurement due to various factors. The factors where fault loop measurements are sometimes difficult to make can include unusual or non-standard voltage levels and testing at transformers where the higher reactance requires a higher test current in order to make an accurate test measurement.

The principle application within Network Rail is for the testing of its 650V based power distribution systems. This type of distribution system can be found in areas of the network such as the signalling power feeders. Existing fault monitoring equipment is already installed at these locations, however, the need to test live for the fault current (Ik) and loop impedance (Zs) measurements was also required.

Electrical systems commonly seen in the UK are either TT, TN or IT systems. For the 650V distribution system found at Network Rail sites, an IT system is employed. The power is distributed by two

phase conductors, – 325V and +325V (650V Ph-Ph), to supply power on a number of the key systems for safe rail network operations. Where the Sonel device is expected to be used most is in removing the requirement for conducting conductor and circuit protective conductors (CPC) continuity testing for the IT systems, mainly on the individually earthed systems used. The meters from Sonel will make it possible for engineers to use a tester that can measure the phase loop impedance whilst the system is live and therefore not requiring planned maintenance shutdowns.

Along with the 650V electrical network, Network Rail also has standard 230/400V systems. The meter can make these measurements through a simple range selection change, meaning the same instrument can be used for multiple test applications.

The process of approval for the product took just over two years. Extensive testing by Network Rail engineers on the network was conducted to ensure the metering was safe and reliable to use before proceeding to issue product approval for use on the network.

Sonel provided support during the process to rewrite, test and issue an updated version of the instruments’ firmware. This was achieved within two weeks of request, and enabled the meter to make measurement calculations in accordance with Network Rail’s requirements and to ensure the level of accuracy and consistency they required for the test results.

The Sonel MZC-306 has gained approval by Network Rail for use in its signalling power feeders to test the fault current and loop impedance measurements and is fully PADS approved under the Network Rail Certificate of Acceptance PA05/07453.

In addition, the wide variety of electrical systems that the meter can test not only makes it ideal for the 650V railway electrification network, but also for use in a wide variety of LV electrical installations that may be encountered in modern electrical systems, such as solar PV renewables, commercial properties, public facilities, workshops and factories.

Power Quality Expert, powerqualityexpert.com

In the UK, electrical systems exist that operate outside the traditional and commonplace 230/400V network that we normally see in domestic and commercial installations.

“Extensive testing by Network Rail engineers on the network was conducted to ensure the metering was safe and reliable to use”

The street lighting industry event of the year, the HEA Annual Conference and Awards, celebrates the best the highway electrical sector has to offer and recognises the valuable contributions made by the industry’s top performers.

Early in the ceremony, the century-old, award-winning manufacturer was thrilled to learn that its E951 luminaire was named ‘Product of the Year 2022’.

E951 is the high-quality, low-cost solution local authorities have been waiting

for to replace existing sodium discharge, compact fluorescent and even first generation LED luminaires on traffic routes and minor roads.

Paul Carter, Technical Manager Luminaires, CU Phosco, says, “We faced some stiff competition on the night, so it is a fantastic honour to receive this award.

E951 has been conceived from over 100 years of experience working with local authorities to help them maximise their efficiency and minimise their budget and environmental impact.”

And just when they thought the evening couldn’t get any better, Bob Gaskell,

the manufacturer’s Lighting Contracts Director, was thrown into the spotlight when he received the Service to Industry Award for 2022.

Bob says, “In my 20-plus years in the industry, I have never felt as proud as I do now. It is a tremendous honour to be bestowed with this award, joining some of the industry’s greats and measured to the highest of standards. I hope to continue adding value to this esteemed institution.”

CU Phosco Lighting, cuphosco.com

SUIT UP FOR WORK WITH SNICKERS WORKWEAR MID-LAYER

CLOTHING

Snickers Workwear’s innovative and sustainable mid-layer clothing has excellent breathability for efficient body temperature management when you’re working hard.

The body-mapping designs and sustainable fabrics keep you ventilated as the heat from your body is regulated to give you winter warmth and cooling comfort when you need it. The new autumn-winter styles include the FlexiWork High-Vis Hoodie which is stretchy, versatile and made from a two-layer mesh fabric and recycled polyester fibres. This Class 1 hoodie comes with glow-in-the-dark and flashes, and plenty of features to deliver comfort and functionality.

Use FlexiWork Jacket underneath an outer layer on cold days or on its own in milder conditions. It’s made from a functional fabric with a high content of recycled polyester fibres and an ergonomic design for plenty of freedom of movement. For comfortable freedom of movement on chilly workdays, the FlexiWork Fleece Hoodie is ideal. The recycled polyester fleece fabric offers great insulation, while long cuffs with thumb grip provide extra protection against cold air.

Snickers Workwear, snickersworkwear.com

NIFTY SHADES OF GREY FROM KNIGHTSBRIDGE

With matt black finishes on electrical accessories becoming increasingly popular in domestic and commercial installations, Knightsbridge is offering designers and contractors a wider range of darker shades with Anthracite and Smoked Bronze. Anthracite as a finish is increasingly popular generally and is rapidly becoming a renovation icon featuring throughout the home. Its contemporary versatility lends itself to anything from window systems through to radiators and now switches and sockets. A deep, dark grey that brings an industrial, minimalist chic to interior schemes, Knightsbridge’s Anthracite offers an edgy twist to the company’s Matt Black range. Smoked Bronze appeals to those seeking classic, subtle dark accessories while adopting a more individual stance. A patinated light grey with a warm bronze undertone, it has a discreet brushed finish that avoids the severity of the darker shades.

All Knightsbridge’s wiring devices and accessories are now available in these aesthetic finishes, from sockets, switches, media and communication outlets, combination and multimedia plates; and modular and gridplates.

Knightsbridge, mlaccessories.co.uk

ANSELL UPGRADES POPULAR EMERGENCY LUMINAIRE

Ansell Lighting has upgraded its popular Guardian Emergency Bulkhead, incorporating a sleek new design and improved installation features. Providing up to 18m viewing distance when illuminated, the powerful new luminaire is an effective emergency light. Supplied with self-adhesive legend, it is self-test as standard and comes pre-programmed to automatically initiate routine statutory-required testing. Eliminating the requirement for manual testing, it provides convenient and accurate maintenance and ensures building compliance. Easy to mount on walls and ceilings, improvements to the design of the Guardian Emergency Bulkhead mean that the quick-release, push-fit terminal is now attached to the base of the product, allowing the LED to have a plug and play feature. It also features 20mm side, end and rear cable entries for a quick and easy install.The battery in the Guardian Emergency Bulkhead has also been upgraded to a Lithium-Ion Phosphate battery, providing many additional benefits. The luminaire also comes with a five-year warranty as standard and has an L70 50,000 hour lifetime.

Ansell Lighting, anselluk.com

HELLERMANNTYTON

LAUNCHES

2023 PRODUCTS IN NEW CATALOGUE

HellermannTyton has released new products in its latest product catalogue for 2022/2023.The new catalogue showcases HellermannTyton’s entire portfolio of industry-specific product ranges including Fastening and Fixings, Identification, Application Tooling, Electrical Installation and Insulation and Protection, all of which feature tailor-made technologies designed to meet the unique demands of the various industries that HellermannTyton serves. The catalogue also provides insight into HellermannTyton’s latest product launches. This includes the Soft Grip Series which provides flexible fastening options for fluid management, the all-new HelaCon Plus Resealable Connectors for electrical installations, and the EVO KR manual tensioning tool which works as an application tool to offer high vibration resistance ideal for the rail and automotive industries – to name just a few.The comprehensive catalogue features a digital upgrade on its predecessors with QR codes and URLs at the bottom of each product page, enabling customers to visit a product’s dedicated page on the HellermannTyton website as well as save their favourite products to their personal watchlist.

HellermannTyton, hellermanntyton.co.uk

SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY

INCEPTOR U-LITE – THE NEW SLIMLINE LED LUMINAIRE FROM

OVIA

The new Inceptor U-Lite from Ovia will join the existing, highly successful U-Lite luminaire and is designed to bring even more benefits to the installer. Inceptor U-Lite is a slimline, non-corrosive utility LED luminaire, designed to offer protection against the elements. With an integrated diffuser and gear tray anchored to the base, the Inceptor U-Lite ensures a hassle-free installation. Features that are new to this Inceptor model include switchable CCT: 4000K, 5000K and 6500K and improved assembly. The gear tray and diffuser assembly can be disconnected and removed for lighter/simple installation of the base, whilst multiple positions for the terminal block allows greater flexibility for retrofit installations. The luminaire offers emergency self-test as standard.

Inceptor U-Lite comes in three different lengths (1200mm, 1500mm and 1800mm) and each length is available in a single lamp and a twin lamp equivalent output. It is suitable for wall, ceiling or suspension mounting with adjustable fixing centres. Pre-fitted Anti Tamper clips allow the installer to screw the retaining clips so that others cannot open the luminaire without the use of a tool.

Ovia, oviauk.com

NEW LUCECO LIGHTING CONTROLS AND SOLUTIONS

SANGAMO TIMERS AND HEATING CONTROLS OFFERED IN SILVER AND BLACK

Sangamo has recently expanded its range of timers and heating controls to introduce two additional colour options across all products offered. The full range of Sangamo Timer Controllers, Thermostats, Programmable Thermostats and Programmers is now all available in a choice of three colours, with silver and black added to the original white finish – taking the full range up to 30 individual product lines. ESP believes this will satisfy a fast-growing demand among end users and building owners for a departure from the usual white finish to add a more stylish look to an interior setting. Energy efficiency remains at the top of the agenda for the economy, businesses and householders. The Sangamo range of heating controls offers features that will assist with efficiency and performance and will ultimately help drive down energy usage and costs – a critical consideration for consumers at a time when energy prices continue to rise.

ESP, espuk.com

GUIDE

Luceco has recently launched a new publication demonstrating the range and diversity of its lighting control systems. As controls become standard in many new lighting installations, Luceco also provides solutions for refurbishments in existing infrastructure. The control of light is essential to our wellbeing, work, productivity, and leisure time. With increasing pressure for buildings to be environmentally friendly and energy efficient, LED luminaire technology coupled with lighting controls can help save up to 70% on energy consumption and ensure spaces are lit appropriately to provide safety, security, and comfort, using scene setting, presence detection and daylight dimming controls. Both Platform and Elevate from Luceco offer wireless controlled lighting solutions – Platform offering simple and cost-effective wireless control, with Elevate benefitting the client with a function-rich system including energy and emergency lighting reports, asset tracking, as well as the primary functions of dimming, scene setting, presence detection and daylight control.

Luceco, luceco.com

ANSELL TOPS UP INDUSTRIAL RANGE

Ansell Lighting has added a new batten light to its industrial range. Suitable for a wide variety of applications, the Topline EVO CCT Batten, is a high-performance LED light capable of delivering an efficient 140lm/W. Power selectable, it offers both high and low output power options and delivers excellent light uniformity thanks to a high transmittance polycarbonate diffuser.

Available in three lengths – 1200mm, 1500mm and 1800mm – a key feature of the new luminaire is that it is CCT selectable between 3000K, 4000K and 5700K, allowing users to choose their desired lighting hue.

For added functionality, a range of additional options such as OCTO Smart Control, Digital Dimming, Corridor Function, Integral Microwave Sensor, Self-Test and DALI Emergency versions are also available.

The Topline EVO CCT has been designed with ease of installation in mind and features an innovative spring clip gear tray release. It is also fitted with a Tridonic driver as standard, promises a long L70 54,000 hours LED lifespan and comes with a five-year warranty.

Ansell Lighting, anselluk.com

DST-PRO 5K DOCKING STATION FROM LINDY

The DST-Pro 5K is a feature packed docking station designed to deliver unrivalled video output. Housed in a robust aluminium body, this dock delivers great additional connectivity for your device. A space-saving stand is also included to help keep your workspace clutter-free.

When it comes to external display resolution, this docking station stands out from the crowd. With support for a single display resolution of 5k@60Hz (DisplayPort), you can connect your laptop with some of the industry’s leading displays and monitors. There is also support for dual display (5K@60Hz + 4K@60Hz) and triple display (1 x 4K@60Hz, 2 x 4K@30Hz) setups. So, whether you need one, two or three displays, simply plug in your laptop and allow the DST-Pro 5K to provide Ultra HD resolutions through a single USB-C connection.

This docking station delivers great additional connectivity. SuperSpeed USB (5Gbps), Gigabit Ethernet, SD, microSD, HDMI, DisplayPort and a 3.5mm combo jack, are all featured. This allows for improved internet speeds, greater storage capacity and a comprehensive desktop experience.

This docking station comes with a 24W PSU (Power Supply Unit). This is to ensure that there is enough power for the docking station to function without needing to take any power from your device’s connected charger. Thanks to the integrated PD 3.0 port, you can plug your USB-C charger into the docking station and experience up to 100W pass-through charging (depending on the charger’s capabilities). The USB-A port on the front of the dock also has support for Battery Charging 1.2 meaning you can charge mobile devices with 5V and up to 1.5A.

This docking station does not require any driver installation. This allows for seamless large-scale implementation and a hassle-free experience. It is available now at a retail price of £190.

Lindy, lindy.co.uk

SCOLMORE ADDS EQUIPOTENTIAL

BONDING

BUSBARS TO ITS MEDICAL SOLUTIONS RANGE

Scolmore continues to build its portfolio of products and solutions dedicated to healthcare settings, with the introduction of a range of Equipotential Bonding Busbars (EBBs).

The product development team at Scolmore identified the need for an EBB that offered a simple design, with an easy-to-terminate layout and featured the right number of terminations for their applications within different medical locations. The result is the launch of an 18 connection Type 1 EBB and 40 connection Type 2 EBB. In keeping with Amendment 2 of the 18th Edition (BS 7671:2018+A2:2022) requirement for infection control, the EBBs are supplied with a smooth, flat, one-piece lid with semi recessed cover screws and rounded corners that provides an easy to clean surface. Scolmore has also added Supplementary Equipotential Bonding Connection Points to the range. They are supplied in the Click Mode antimicrobial plate and are available in one- and two-gang plates. Scolmore, scolmore.com

KNIGHTSBRIDGE DOWNLIGHTS BRING

CHIC TO SURFACES AND RECESSES

Knightsbridge has launched a collection of recessed and surface-mounted downlights designed for the specification sector and intended for installation in light commercial, hospitality and high-end residential applications.

The six stylish new ranges –namely Odina, Dipa, Ambar, Dee, Oran and Dasan – amount to over 40 units. Compatible with Knightsbridge GU10 light sources, the IP20 lights are available in dimmable and non-dimmable variants and boast a wide array of colour temperatures and controllable parameters.

The downlights can all be used with Knightsbridge’s range of fire hoods, and – depending on model –integrate seamlessly with company’s SmartKnight app for remote scheduling and operation.

Benefits to the installer include a fast-fix, tool-free termination system with an intuitive loop-in/loop-out functionality ensuring a rapid second fix.

Warrantied for five years, the 40 new recessed and surface-mounted downlights from Knightsbridge deliver huge aesthetic choice to architects, designers and contractors seeking chic and simple lighting solutions for contemporary homes, restaurants, hotels and other light commercial applications.

Knightsbridge, mlaccessories.co.uk

SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY

HELLERMANNTYTON

LAUNCHES

TIME-SAVING CABLE ENTRY SOLUTION

HellermannTyton is bringing time and cost savings to the electrical, panel building and control cabinet construction sectors with its brand new cable entry solution, the Vario Plate.

Retrofits, repairs and maintenance can be completed easily and quickly with the Vario Plate, designed to give customers working with control panels and enclosures a quicker and tidier method for installing cables.

With flexible mini frames and rubber grommets that can be changed to match different varieties of cables and applications, the Vario Plate provides a professional alternative to conventional cable glands, ultimately making the task as simple as possible for electrical installers and panel builders to get the job done quickly and efficiently. An ideal solution for cables with connectors due to its split system, the Vario Plate is a space-saving solution, allowing for up to 40 cables per frame and has easy reassembly along with cut-out sizes of the enclosure up to 54 x 115mm so that the user can dismantle and reassemble the frame to suit their specific needs.

HellermannTyton, hellermanntyton.com

MULTI-TALENTED BATHROOM DOWNFLOW HEATER BY AIRMASTER

The new Airmaster Bathroom Downflow Heater is a fan heater packed with a wide range of in-use benefits, adding a new dimension to the long established Airmaster fan heater range. Finished in white with a durable plastic body, this highly attractive circular fan heater is for wall mounting and features two heat control levels at 1,400W or 2,000W. It’s a PTC self-regulating fan heater with automatic overheat control and boasts a one-to-eight-hour timer, 15-35 degree heat adjustability and comes complete with a remote controller. This new and unique Downflow Heater is IP24 rated, Lot 20 compliant, CE and UKCA approved and comes with a 12-month warranty. With a diameter of 300mm and depth of just 130mm, this neat and compact heater is not only ideal for bathroom or shower rooms, but equally suited to small rooms or offices.

CED Electrical, cedelectrical.co.uk

MANROSE HELPS MAKE VENTILATION SUSTAINABLE

Manrose is helping make ventilation sustainable for electrical wholesalers and electricians by continuously improving processes to reduce waste throughout its products’ lifecycle. Furthermore, the company is significantly increasing the use of recycled plastic from the circular economy in the manufacture of its products. Manrose has set itself sustainability targets, each geared towards achieving significant improvements by the end of FY2025. The company’s Lo-Watt products will help customers reduce the energy they use for ventilation and by the end of FY2025 – the company is aiming for 70% of its sales from this product range. Additionally, Manrose is investing in R&D and manufacturing technology to develop fans from recycled sources, with 90% of the plastic used in its facilities to be from recycled sources by the end of FY2025, without compromising on quality or reliability.

100% of the company’s PVC ducting is already made from recycled window frames, and plastics extracted from old fridges are used to create ducting components.

Manrose, manrose.co.uk

UNICRIMP INTRODUCES RED AND WHITE FIRE-SAFE METAL CABLE CLIPS

Unicrimp offers an extensive range of cable accessories. The company has a vast offering of 18th Edition compliant fire-rated Metal Twin and Earth Cable Clips which include red and white options.

The 18th Edition wiring regulations stipulate that cable support systems must be constructed with materials that will withstand premature collapse caused by direct exposure to heat. There are no applications excluded – trunking, conduit and cabling fixed to surfaces of the building or attached to cable support systems must all have fire-resistant supports in place. Part of Unicrimp’s Q-Fire range, the fire-rated T&E Cable Clips are manufactured from zinc plated carbon steel and are available in two sizes – 1-2.5mm and 4-6mm – and in a choice of uncoated or with a grey PPA LSF coating. The LSF coating provides long term protection for metal clips, as well as added protection for the cable during and after installation. Unicrimp, unicrimp.com