ECN February 2022

uickwire

The revolutionary new junction box for lighting www.quickwire.co.uk

VOLUME 42 NO. 02 • FEBRUARY 2022

SPECIAL FEATURE: FIRE, SAFETY & SECURITY

29

ELECTRICALCONTRACTINGNEWS.COM

SPECIAL FEATURE: UPS, POWER & ENERGY

40

SPECIAL FEATURE: WIRING ACCESSORIES

46

GET AHEAD WITH THE FORT SMART SECURITY RANGE FROM ESP Satisfy the growing demand for smart home security solutions with ESP’s Fort Smart Security Range, available exclusively through the electrical wholesale channel.

The Fort Smart Security range was launched mid-October and made its debut in front of contractors at ELEX in Sandown the following month, where it received an enthusiastic response from the trade. One of the main talking points among contractors was the fact that the range operates under a single app which provides control not just of the Fort Smart Security products, but also the Click Smart+ range of connected home products from Scolmore.

Turn to page 14 for the full story

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18/01/2022 15:54

CONTENTS

CONTENTS…

VOLUME 42 NO. 02 • FEBRUARY 2022

Regulars

SPECIAL FEATURES:

6 Editorial

Fire, Safety & Security

Striving to support the electrical industry

All your fire protection 30 solutions under one roof

8 Industry News New guide for electricians looking to grow into the EV market; Help Inside the Hard Hat campaign tours the Midlands; UK government expands heat networks to power homes with green energy; and more

Why every contractor needs a 32 risk assessment The importance of arc 36 flash PPE within the

14 Cover Story Fort – the smart security range

electrical industry

16 Contract News UK’s biggest treetops trails course covered by ESP CCTV; Lake District National Park electrifies with Rolec and Amp EV; complex M+E project completes at Liverpool Science Park; and more

Electrical Safety Roundtable: 38 2021 round-up

20 Training JTL set to offer new Domestic Electrician Standard; Ideal Industries steps up support for electrical talent; and J S Wright wins training employer of the year award

UPS, Power & Energy

22 Key Issue Taking stock of manufacturing and supply issues across the globe

24 Project Focus TV car restorer kits out new studio with Scolmore Group products

CMD puts University of 40 Birmingham’s new School of Engineering on track for future flexibility Electrical energy 42 management systems

26 Interview Carly Wills speaks to Neal Hooper, Managing Director of Aico, about life at the company and its plans for the future

28 Competition Win a WiFi accessory bundle from Timeguard

Five predictions for the energy 44 and utilities industry in 2022 Mitigating risk to 45 UPS installation

52 Company Showcase Sponsored content from across the sector

16

Wiring Accessories Restoring Kings House 46 back to its former glory accessories – 48 aWiring clean bill of health Office upgrade builds on 50 CMD’s powerful legacy

@ElecConNews

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/electricalcontractingnews

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February 2022 | 3

27/01/2022 12:22

Tried.

Tested.

Trade Rated.

Isn’t it time you switched to LAP?

13A 2-gang SP switched socket 2-outlet USB charger

Switch to LAP at Screwfix.com/brand/lap Untitled-4 2

21/01/2022 14:12

Great long lasting products Lucy Electrician Somerset

13A 2-gang SP switched socket 2-outlet USB charger Overall customer rating at Screwfix.com

At Screwfix.com*

*Trade Rated applies to selected LAP products, for more information please visit Screwfix.com

Untitled-4 3

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EDITORIAL

NEXT TIME…

Wholesalers & Distributors

STRIVING TO SUPPORT THE ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY

H

ello and welcome to the February issue of ECN. Schneider Electric has announced that it has partnered with Which? to support electricians across the UK. The partnership will enable electrical professionals to become a Which? Trusted Trader cheaply and quickly, helping them to generate more business.

As well as being able to display the icon, endorsed professionals are given a profile on the Which? website, access to industry news and a dedicated account manager to help with customers. Members of mySchneider will now be able to become a Which? Trusted Trader with a discount of 50% off the first six months.

Published monthly by All Things Media Ltd., Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent ME5 8UD. Tel: 01634 673163 Fax: 01634 673173

Smart Lighting & Lighting Control

“We are constantly striving to support the electrical industry and provide electricians with the tools for success,” says Nico van der Merwe, Vice President of Home and Distribution, Schneider Electric UK and Ireland. “The partnership with Which? is another element of that commitment and we will continue to roll out new promotions.”

Fire Safety & Security, UPS, Power and Energy, and Wiring Accessories are the features in this issue, and we also bring you all of our regular features, including Industry News, Contract News, Training, Interview and Company Showcase. And Timeguard is offering one lucky winner the chance to win a WiFi accessory bundle, so please don’t forget to enter!

See you next month!

Carly Wills, Editor

Test Equipment

March Issue Editorial deadline: February 17 Advertising deadline: February 24

EDITOR: CARLY WILLS T: 01634 673163 E: carly@allthingsmedialtd.com

STUDIO: MARK WELLER T: 01634 673163 E: mark@allthingsmedialtd.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: BEATRICE LEE T: 01634 673163 E: beatrice@allthingsmedialtd.com

MANAGING DIRECTOR: DAVID KITCHENER T: 01634 673163 E: david@allthingsmedialtd.com

GROUP ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER: KELLY BYNE T: 01634 673163 E: kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com

ACCOUNTS T: 01634 673163 E: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com

ECN charity of choice

The editors and publishers do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication.

In all matters the editor’s decision is final. Editorial contributions to ECN are welcomed, and the editor reserves the right to alter or abridge text prior to the publication.

Overseas Subscription Rates: Europe £60.00; Rest of World £70.00. Copyright © 2022, All rights reserved.

Printed by Micropress, Reydon Business Park Fountain Way, Reydon, Southwold, IP18 6SZ.

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26/01/2022 14:13

A Smarter Home Click Smart+ is powered by Zigbee – the world’s leading wireless protocol to control your home

Alexa turn on the smart socket!

works with

Hey Google

call: 01827 63454

Untitled-2 2 ad - Click Smart +.indd 1 ECN September

Every device can be controlled from anywhere using the Click Smart+ app or with Alexa and Hey Google.

email: sales@scolmore.com

visit: www.click-smart.com

26/01/2022 11:33 24/08/2021 10:49:18

INDUSTRY NEWS ECA URGES GOVERNMENT TO TACKLE EV CHARGER POINT ‘POSTCODE LOTTERY’ The ECA is calling on the government and local authorities in Britain to urgently address the postcode lottery of public charging points, and for urgent investment in a nationwide charge point network to keep pace with the growing number of electric vehicles on our roads.

Annual car sales data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show more electric cars were registered in 2021 than in the previous five years combined.

Meanwhile, data gathered by ECA via a Freedom of Information request in late 2021 revealed over half (52%) of local authorities in the UK said electric vehicle charge points (EVCPs) are prohibitively expensive to install, and almost two thirds (66%) of local authorities do not have any plans to roll out EVCPs at all.

While some local authorities in London and the South East have invested heavily in EVCP infrastructure, many others across the country, including Wales and the North, do not have enough EVCPs to support the booming EV industry.

ECA CEO Steve Bratt says: “Electric vehicles continue to pull ahead as the front runner for the future of UK transport, as we make the journey to net zero carbon. The electrotechnical industry has the people with the skills to make the transition to net zero a reality, but that can’t happen without financial backing from the government.”

ECA, eca.co.uk

JTL LAUNCHES NEW ANIMATION TO SHOWCASE THE IMPORTANCE OF FUNCTIONAL SKILLS

HOUSING SAFETY AND WELLBEING TASKFORCE LAUNCHED BY AICO Aico has announced the official launch of the Housing Safety & Wellbeing Taskforce, which took place online on 13 January 2022.

The Housing Safety & Wellbeing Taskforce will bring together partners from the public, private, and charitable sector across all nations of the UK to discuss the key issues involved in creating safer homes and making recommendations for action.

The Taskforce framework will enable all involved to work together collaboratively, and the organisation will be strictly non-commercial and non-partisan, committed to promoting a holistic approach to housing safety and resident wellbeing.

There will be six strands to the work of the Taskforce, each with their own Ambassador to lead the discussions and co-ordinate activity: Health & Wellbeing, Net Zero & Decarbonisation, Resident Engagement, Housing Quality, Fire & Carbon Monoxide Safety, and Fuel Poverty.

At the launch event, the Housing Safety & Wellbeing Taskforce unveiled a study from CEBR (Centre for Economics & Business Research) which combines a statistical analysis of fire incidence across the UK, a summary of the relevant legislation, and a holistic examination of the human and economic impact of fire, based on official data and a specially commissioned YouGov survey.

The study demonstrates that the rate of reduction in fire incidents, running in tandem with new regulations, has slowed in recent years. With estimated annual costs of residential fires now exceeding £1billion, the research then goes on to examine in detail the potential impact and cost savings associated with tighter restrictions.

JTL has recently launched a brand new animation to showcase the importance of Functional Skills – a set of capabilities that are designed to enable learners to develop confidence and fluency in maths and English. JTL’s forward-thinking animation demonstrates what could go wrong when an apprentice does not obtain their Functional Skills qualification.

Functional Skills is an essential part of every apprenticeship program for learners who do not have GCSE Grade 4, as without prior achievement of maths and English qualifications, apprentices are unable to sit their End Point Assessment. The new animation showcases a range of scenarios that could occur when an apprentice fails to gain the relevant knowledge from the course; the consequences

could result in anything from incorrect job quotations to serious personal injuries.

In order to complete the Functional Skills qualification, employers need to allow their apprentices time away from work to access the remote learning plan, which focuses on practicality. The animation focuses on the importance of employers supporting learners to complete the qualification. It is recommended that apprentices complete their Functional Skills in year one of a four-year apprenticeship as the skills gained impact positively on future assessments and real-life work situations, which will in turn meet the needs of their employer.

JTL Training, jtltraining.com

Aico, aico.co.uk

8 | February 2022

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26/01/2022 14:14

YOUR TRADE WEBSITE Contact your local branch for access to your trade account online features: Over 10,000 products including your local YESSS branch stock Free next working day delivery to UK mainland on orders over £50 Click & Collect (within 1 hour) View your account including quotes, orders and statements Ability to make a payment on your trade account Your saved pricing

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SUPPLIES, SERVICE & SOLUTIONS Untitled-2 2

24/01/2022 09:25

INDUSTRY NEWS KNIGHTSBRIDGE SUPPORTS DOTS TO HELP THE HOMELESS COMMUNITY Dogs on the Street (DOTS) – the charity that supports homeless people with dogs across the UK – has received additional support this New Year thanks to a donation from Knightsbridge.

DOTS is a volunteer-led, not-for-profit charity dedicated to supporting dog owners in the homeless community. Homelessness can be a lonely, alienating experience for those it affects, but the companionship of a dog can help alleviate some of the immense pressures that these individuals face on a daily basis.

DOTS has over 700 clients under its care, and also operates a four-acre sanctuary where it cares for over 50 animals currently separated from their owners owing to illness, temporary accommodation issues or other circumstances.

Knightsbridge is closely aligned with homelessness charities and is donating £10,000 from its December Weatherproof range sales to DOTS. The donation will go to help support, among other things, DOTS’s fully equipped mobile veterinary surgery plus the provision of essential items such as medicines and food.

ML Accessories, mlaccessories.co.uk

NEW GUIDE FOR ELECTRICIANS LOOKING TO GROW INTO THE EV MARKET

TOOLSTATION RAISES OVER £500,000 FOR MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT Bridgwater based Toolstation raised over £500,000 for its designated company charity, Macmillan Cancer Support, in 2021.

Teams from across the Toolstation business, including those at its distribution centre, head office and its 500+ branches, took part in a variety of team fundraising initiatives throughout the year to reach this record figure. Store teams from the Kent and Essex region carried out a virtual trip to the North Pole, walking over 8,480,000 steps, while three directors from its head office ran the London Marathon.

Other examples of fundraising activities carried out last year included leg waxing, team walking events, fancy dress days, ice-bucket

challenges, sponsored gaming marathons and supporting Macmillan’s Coffee Morning in September. These were all supported by asking for customer donations in store during the Easter and August bank holidays.

Toolstation’s Managing Director, James Mackenzie says: “The generosity of our customers and colleagues is remarkable. The pandemic has had a devastating impact on Macmillan Cancer Support’s efforts at a time when people living with cancer need our support more than ever. Our fundraising will support the charity in its efforts to be there for everyone living with or affected by cancer.”

UK Power Networks and the Electrical Contractors Association (ECA) have released a guide to the connections process for installers interested in moving into the growing electric vehicle market.

The network operator estimates that only a small proportion of electricians in its patch are currently trained to install chargers for customers. Latest figures show around 4,500 registered installers operate in the area, with as many as 2.7 million EVs forecasted by 2028.

The guide aims to demystify the process for potential new installers so they can begin connecting chargers. The document features quick access to a range of useful information, including installation processes, technical considerations, earthing arrangements, and inspection requirements.

The guide takes installers through the nine different types of electricity supplies that can be used for EV charge points on UK Power Networks’ network, including help on how to install ‘vehicle to grid’ (V2G) chargers which release car battery energy into the local grid.

It also features details on regulations, permissions, and safety rules helping installers stay safe and compliant at work.

UK Power Networks, ukpowernetworks.co.uk

Toolstation, toolstation.com

HELP INSIDE THE HARD HAT CAMPAIGN TOURS THE MIDLANDS Help Inside the Hard Hat, the latest awareness campaign from the Lighthouse Construction Charity goes on tour on 7 February for a week, to raise awareness of the charitable support services available to the construction industry, allied trades and their families.

With the mission that “No construction worker or their family should be alone in a crisis” the tour aims to deliver the message directly to frontline workers along with information about the crucial services that the charity provides.

The five-day tour will visit various locations across the Midlands from 7th-11th February.

The charity is asking companies and sites to contact them if they would like a visit from the ‘Hard Hat’ tour team to deliver the charity’s messages directly to those that might need support and there will also be a great range of prizes and freebies up for grabs.

In the UK, two construction workers take their own lives every working day and stress, anxiety and depression account for a fifth of all work-related illnesses. The charity’s Help Inside the Hard Hat campaign has already helped to raise vital awareness of poor mental health within the industry.

Lighthouse Construction Charity, lighthouseclub.org

10 | February 2022

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26/01/2022 14:14

Become an approved Sonos Become an approved Sonos Installed Solutions partner Installed Solutions partner Sonos is one of The World’s Leading Sound experience brands. We invented multiroom wireless made it sound amazing, and changed people Sonos is one of Theaudio, World’s Leading Sound experience brands. the We way invented listen at home.

Known for premium sound, ease of and use,changed thoughtful multiroom wireless audio, made it sound amazing, thedesign, way people and anatopen platform, products that make listening listen home.

Known we for create premium sound, and easeexperiences of use, thoughtful design, simpler and more joyful. and an open platform, we create products and experiences that make listening simpler and more joyful.

Sonos innovation powers better listening experiences, We want to continue to workinnovation with the Installer and build on thoseWe successes in the future.

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by Home an approved From Portable speakers, Cinemainstaller. and Architectural systems, these all benefit when installed by an approved installer.

Sonos Approved Installers win CEDIA Awards. Apply to become an approved Sonos byInstallers emailing win Installed-Solutions-UK@sonos.com Sonos Installer Approved CEDIA Awards. Apply to become an approved or visit www.sonos.com/dealer/dealer-onboarding Sonos Installer by emailing Installed-Solutions-UK@sonos.com or visit www.sonos.com/dealer/dealer-onboarding Untitled-6 2 OY21012_Sonos_IS_Adv_245x340_V2_DEF.indd 1

21/10/2021 15:47 6/22/21 9:27 AM

INDUSTRY NEWS UK GOVERNMENT EXPANDS HEAT NETWORKS TO POWER HOMES WITH GREEN ENERGY UK homes, university residences and public buildings will benefit from cleaner, more affordable heat and energy, thanks to £19m government funding to further expand Great Britain’s network of low carbon heating.

The £19m investment will go towards setting up five new heat networks, two in Bristol, and three across Liverpool, London and Worthing, providing households and workplaces with more affordable, reliable heating that offers a low carbon, more cost-effective alternative to installing individual, energy-intensive, heating solutions such as gas boilers.

Heat networks supply heat from a central source to consumers, such as large rivers and heat from sewers via a network of underground pipes carrying hot water, like a giant central heating system serving many buildings, and supplies it through pipes to homes and businesses.

The funding comes from the government’s £320m Heat Networks Investment Project (HNIP), which supports the development of heat networks across England and Wales.

Government-funded heat networks currently being developed include Leeds City County’s 16km district heat network, Cardiff Town Heat Network in South Wales, spreading across the Cardiff Bay area, and Newcastle University’s District Heat Network within its city centre campus.

UK Government, gov.uk

NEW NAME, BUT THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY COLLECTIVE VOICE REMAINS INSPIRING After nearly two years dedicated to steering the Scottish building sector through the worst crisis in its history, the Construction Industry Coronavirus (CICV) Forum has changed its name to reflect its expanded remit and ongoing collaborative vision for the future.

The unique alliance of trade associations and professional bodies has been rebranded as the Construction Industry Collective Voice (CICV), putting more emphasis on its shared focus and willingness to tackle the many other issues currently facing the construction industry.

The move has been hailed as a ‘natural evolution’ for the body, whose range of work now includes Brexit, net zero, supply chain, employment and skills, project bank accounts and the launch of a dedicated Green Home Festival in 2022.

Alan Wilson, CICV Chair and Managing Director of electrical trade association SELECT, comments: “The New Year is a time for new beginnings and this change of name is a logical step for a body which has exceeded expectations in every department.”

The body has also created a new position of Vice Chair, with the inaugural post being filled by Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF).

Construction Industry Collective Voice (CICV), cicvforum.co.uk

MOVERS & SHAKERS…

SELECT WELCOMES ORGANISATIONS AS FOUNDER MEMBERS OF ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP SCHEME SELECT has launched a new Associate Membership scheme that will give manufacturers and service providers the chance to become part of Scotland’s largest construction trade association.

Eight leading industry organisations have already signed up as founder members of the new scheme, rolled out by the campaigning trade body for the electrical sector in Scotland.

As well as offering Associate Members a wide range of benefits, the initiative will also allow them to build beneficial relationships with SELECT’s 1,260 member businesses, who between them have an annual turnover of around £1bn.

The eight founding members of the new SELECT scheme are: • A ico – European market leader in home life safety • F lexel – manufacturer of innovative electric heating systems and accessories • L inian – innovative UK manufacturer of cable-fixing products • L uceco Group – global manufacturer and distributor of high-quality electrical products • M egger – industry leader in electrical test and measurement • s imPRO – leading job management software solution for service, project and maintenance contractors • T ala Training – leading provider of health and safety training and consultancy services • Thorn Lighting – internationally leading supplier of integral lighting solutions Iain Mason, Director of Membership and Communications at SELECT says: “The response to our new category of membership has been extremely positive, with these leading enterprises enthusiastically signing up well before the official launch.

“We are delighted that so many well-respected industry names have already joined us and we look forward to welcoming many more in the weeks and months to come.”

IDEAL Industries has promoted Mike Cullom to the role of UK Sales Manager.

Mike has worked as a sales manager for IDEAL Industries for nearly three years, with responsibility for the Northern region. His new remit will build on his knowledge of the company’s wide-ranging product portfolio and the electrical market to include responsibility for the company’s sales across the UK. CENTIEL UK has welcomed Tim Ng as Sales Engineer for hardware to the company’s expanding team. Louis McGarry Sales and Marketing Director, CENTIEL UK confirms: “Tim has a huge amount of experience specifying, installing, and commissioning a wide range of UPS systems. This knowledge will benefit both our existing and new clients, enabling Tim to provide trusted advice as an engineer in the optimal design and delivery of critical power applications for a variety of facilities.”

ESP has made two new appointments within the sales team to strengthen its support for existing customers and continue to develop new business opportunities. Gary Sealey is the new Area Sales Manager for the South West region, while Adam Chalkley has made the move from Scolmore Group company, Unicrimp, to take up the position of Area Sales Manager for the North West region.

Marshall-Tufflex has welcomed Martin Russell as its new Group Product Manager. Martin will be responsible for driving new product development at Marshall-Tufflex, as the business continues to strengthen its portfolio of high-quality cable management solutions.

SELECT, select.org.uk

12 | February 2022

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26/01/2022 14:15

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26/01/2022 16:42 11:34 11/01/2022

COVER STORY

FORT — THE SMART SECURITY RANGE Fort is a comprehensive range of smart security products, which includes intruder alarms, video doorbell, video security light, sensors and a selection of 1080p cameras. They all operate under a single app – the ‘Click Smart+’ app – which is completely subscription-free, with no additional fees incurred. By bringing the operation of the new Fort range under the well-established, tried and tested Click Smart+ app from Scolmore, users will have control of a raft of connected home and security products all from one secure, easy to access platform.

A

t the heart of the Fort Smart Security range is the smart intruder alarm, which will support up to 32 RF devices and provide remote monitoring and alert notifications directly to the Click Smart+ app. The smart alarm is available in handy kits or can be purchased as separate devices for a tailor-made system.

Kit control

There are six different kits in the range

There are six different kits in the range, with the basic kit containing one each of the following - a smart hub, PIR, door/window contact and remote control.

Other kits offer an additional number of PIRs, door/window contacts and remote controls, and there are two kits which include Pet PIRs. All devices supplied within the kits are pre-registered, to assist with a straightforward install.

The Wi-Fi Smart Alarm Hub includes an inbuilt siren, backup battery with up to eight hours standby time and GSM backup facility (Sim not included) for additional system security. The Hub is compatible with a range of battery powered RF devices that can be controlled to provide whole home security in and around a property.

Smart Alarm accessories include remote keypad, pet friendly PIRs and vibration sensor as well as a solar powered or wired external siren for an additional intruder deterrent. The range also includes

a Smart Alarm Keypad which provides a central keypad that is usually positioned in entrances and hallways. The keypad requires the Smart Alarm Hub and provides users with arm, disarm, home mode and panic functions.

In addition, the Fort range includes Wi-Fi security devices such as a video doorbell, video security light and a selection of 1080p cameras. These are all supported on the same app and do not require the hub, or any additional subscription fees other than a Wi-Fi connection. The security devices include a video doorbell to monitor visitors, security flood lights with inbuilt cameras to deter intruders at night, and a selection of simple to use cameras for a range of applications, such as monitoring loved ones and pets or simply to provide reassurance when away from your property.

Fort is a comprehensive range of smart security products

Subscription-free app ESP believes a key element to the projected success of the new security range is its subscription-free app. Unlike some systems on the market which will provide a free basic system, but charge for additional devices and functions, users of the Fort Smart Security system, powered by Click Smart+, will have full access to all devices and functions with no subscription fee or hidden costs to pay. The app provides an easy to use platform to remotely arm and disarm the system, whilst producing real time events such as activations and low battery indication status. In addition, the app supports a range of Click Smart+ home automation products, which enables a range of sockets and switches to be activated in certain system scenarios.

A brochure covering the full Fort range can be downloaded at espuk.com and from the Scolmore Group app.

A video can be viewed at youtu.be/3vy3N1unvHI.

Fully automated Contractors who visited ELEX were also impressed with the demonstrations on stand that allowed them to see how the various products from across the Fort and Click Smart+ ranges interact. For example, using a combination of devices, the system has the ability to activate exterior floodlights and internal lights on instances of the smart alarm being activated in different modes - armed, disarmed, SOS or intruder. This automation would light up a property, providing reassurance to the user when arriving or leaving a property during low light hours. In addition, a device connected to a smart socket can be activated in the different smart alarm activation modes.

Users also have the ability to schedule when the exterior and interior lights activate on and off

14 | February 2022

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electricalcontractingnews.com

via the schedule. For additional automation setting, lights can be activated by the changing times of sunset and sunrise, meaning in the winter months the lights will activate earlier and automatically adjust in the summer months, offering security and economic benefits in one.

The automation feature provides an extra deterrent to a would-be intruder attempting to break into the property. If the smart alarm’s shock sensor picks up vibrations on an attempted break-in through a window, the smart alarm activates the internal and external siren for an auditable alert, and the additional lighting provides the visual alert that the system has been triggered. In the intruder scenario, the user will receive a notification via the app and have the ability to access the cameras to live view or view recorded footage, as well as the option to open up two-way audio channels.

Other voice functions are available for convenience. The smart alarm can be voice activated through Alexa devices and this includes arming and disarming using a pre-set security pin.

For additional convenience, the smart alarm includes automated arming and disarming modes, meaning for the busy and absent-minded user the system automatically arms and disarms on schedule, ensuring protection when it’s needed.

ESP, espuk.com

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26/01/2022 14:15

UPGRADE YOUR

Protect everything that matters with the Fort range of Smart Security products, featuring alarm kits, cameras, sensors & more

POWERED BY CLICK SMART+

Every device can be controlled from anywhere using the Click Smart+ app.

email: info@espuk.com

Untitled-2 2 ECN November ad - Fort.indd 1

visit: www.espuk.com

call: 01527 515150

26/01/2022 11:26 11:32 13/10/2021

CONTRACT NEWS PHAROS HITS THE JACKPOT AT THE HOLLAND CASINO UTRECHT One of the most recent additions to the Dutch city of Utrecht is the glittering new Holland Casino; a striking building adorned in gold.

Designed by OZ Architects, the brief was to create a diamond-shaped building, adorned in gold, that was also completely covered in light. As well as illuminating the entire building and using the façade to display content, it was also important that the building met the criteria for the BREAAM sustainability certification. Keeping light pollution to a minimum was crucial.

System integrator Livingprojects worked closely with Lighting Designer, Siegrid Siederius, on behalf of Arup to deliver the vision of Holland Casino. The façade is structured with individual panels, and an LED fixture is built into each one. The fixtures are not directly visible, ensuring indirect light for viewers. The panels of the façade reflect the light for a seamless integration that delivers stunning results.

As well as the golden façade being fully illuminated in the evenings, content can also be displayed on the panels.

This ensures the casino can respond to special themes or days through the use of the media façade. The custom-made lighting system allows for a different colour to be introduced every 100mm, making it possible to create a dynamic display and even show detailed video content.

The dynamic lighting is controlled by a system from Pharos Architectural Controls. The installation uses the Pharos VLC 500 (Video Lighting Controller).

The addition of 32 Pharos EDN 20 (Ethernet Data Node) remote devices, each with 20 DMX outputs, provides a convenient and scalable solution that delivers cost-effective Ethernet-distributed DMX ports for large control projects.

Coupled with the luxurious façade, the casino’s entrance adds to the excitement and awe-inspiring experience.

Livingprojects worked with Rovasta to develop a 40m long

ENDURANCE TEST IN THE CLASSROOM The Clara Schumann primary school in Leipzig, Germany, is a state-recognised private school with a holistic approach to education and a creative focus, centred on music and the arts. The school was looking for a partner to refurbish its outdated T8 lighting solution in a total of 150 classrooms.

As a first step, a trial of the TRILUX Opendo LED was undertaken in one classroom featuring an integrated CO2 sensor for monitoring air quality.

The T8 fluorescent tubes installed in the school no longer met light quality and energy efficiency requirements. In addition, the luminaires are directly affected by the upcoming T8 lamp ban, so there was an acute need for action. The school sought a solution that would reduce energy costs and, with its light quality and luminaire design, match its high standards and artistic orientation.

The integrated CO2 sensor technology offers the school an additional practical benefit that makes many things easier, especially in times of a pandemic. The sensor continuously measures the CO2 concentration in the room and indicates the air quality via a three-stage traffic light mechanism. If the LED light switches from green to red, it is time to ventilate. This offers teachers and children a safer working and learning environment and introduces students to the topic of air quality.

Hardly any lighting management is implemented in the Leipzig primary school. However, networked Opendo LED solutions with daylight and presence sensors are used in similar school projects.

Sensor control reduces energy consumption and increases the quality of light by ensuring a permanently uniform lighting level.

light that shows dynamic content and wows visitors from the moment they step inside.

With more than 9000 fixtures, suitable locations for the cabling, connections, and the Pharos control system itself had to be carefully identified to ensure both safety and style were achieved.

Pharos Architectural Controls, pharoscontrols.com

COMPLEX M+E PROJECT COMPLETES AT LIVERPOOL SCIENCE PARK Ash Integrated Services has finished work on an intricate and complex project at a key site in Liverpool’s Knowledge Quarter. The company was tasked with installing pipework for ventilation and air conditioning as well as new electrics throughout the IC1 reception.

Due to the tight spacing, the team manufactured the pipes and lighting tracks to intertwine, while still maintaining the overall high-quality spec and contemporary feel of the building.

The company carried out the work over a period of 12 weeks on behalf of fit-out contractor Braithwaite Fit-Out. Liverpool Science Park provides offices, co-working and lab spaces for a number of engineering, scientific and technology companies.

The new IC1 reception also boasts a ‘living wall’, a vertical blanket of greenery made up

of climbing plants and grasses, a feature that Ash also played a key role in, in addition to an illuminated wall.

Antony Grace, co-founder and director at Ash Integrated Services says: “We installed a system within the wall to ensure there is frequent water drip-fed to the roots and that any excess is drained away.

“On the electrical side, we also installed an LED-style wall as well as plug sockets on each of the benches. It was important that none of the wires were on show to keep in with the style of the building, and we designed a solution to run the wires down from the ceiling area into the benches to successfully achieve this.”

Ash Integrated Services, ashintegratedservices.co.uk

TRILUX, trilux.com

16 | February 2022

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21/01/2022 14:22

Amendment 2:2022 to BS 7671:2018 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations

Now available to pre-order!

Ensure you stay up to date with the IET Wiring Regulations and our expert guidance publications, all updated to BS 7671:2018+A2:2022, pre-order now.

Be among the first to learn about the significant expected changes that were originally proposed at DPC stage, such as: – Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) – Changes to fire safety requirements in chapter 422 – Protection against overvoltages

Why the IET? As joint publishers of BS 7671, we are perfectly placed to help you with everything you need to keep up to date with the IET Wiring Regulations.

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– Changes across Part 7: Special Locations – New part – Part 8: Prosumer’s Low Voltage Electrical Installations; in addition to changes throughout BS 7671.

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The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) is registered as a Charity in England and Wales (No. 211014) and Scotland (No. SC038698).

The Institution of Engineering and Technology, Michael Faraday House, Six Hills Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2AY, United Kingdom.

Untitled-7 2 Wiring Regulations Amendment 2 Full Page ECN.indd 1

28/01/2022 11:48 12:12 28/01/2022

CONTRACT NEWS UK’S BIGGEST TREETOPS TRAILS COURSE COVERED BY ESP CCTV Lightwater Valley is a theme park in North Stainley, North Yorkshire, founded in 1969.

The park is home to the UK’s biggest Treetop Trails course – covering over 2,000 square metres of beautiful woodland. Over the course of last year, the park invested in a number of new rides and attractions to enhance the overall visitor experience. At the same time, the owners took the opportunity to upgrade the CCTV systems which provide security throughout the grounds.

With around 30 different rides and attractions in total, the number and type of CCTV systems required is both extensive and varied and a mixture of wire-free and hard-wired systems from across ESP’s CCTV ranges have been installed. There are two main functions for the CCTV installations – one is the evidence-based collection of footage to help identify any potential breaches in security. The other is to provide the ride operator with a clear view of all aspects of the rides, to ensure the safety of those taking part.

The installer responsible for fitting the systems has been using ESP’s CCTV for a number of years and had this to say: “It was great to be able to get a broad range of CCTV solutions all from one supplier and the quality is excellent. I have used cheaper products in the past and they either break down or the image quality is inferior. The quality of the ESP systems is far superior. I like how easy the wire-free systems are to install and we have been able to spread the coverage across a decent amount of space.

The hard-wired system is one that is mainly used for observing.

“As we continue to update the rides and facilities at the park, we will continue to update the CCTV systems to incorporate the best products from ESP.” ESP, espuk.com

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR COMPLETES COMPLEX REVAMP AT HISTORIC AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE Ash Integrated Services has completed a challenging project on the historic site of a West Midlands land-based college, while ensuring all studies and events could continue safely throughout.

Ash spent 12 weeks working on Moreton Morrell College near Warwick, a land-based college located on the estate of an Edwardian manor.

The company completed a full rewire and installed new lighting and electrical points for the college’s classrooms, labs and veterinary facilities, all while maintaining supplies to key systems such as IT, telecoms, alarms and the site’s freezers for storing horses for study.

This meant students who required distance learning were able to continue to do so uninterrupted, while those in attendance could have full use of the site as they needed, including for the college’s summer events.

Moreton Morrell college, part of WCG (formerly Warwickshire College Group), covers 650 acres of countryside and has a working farm, stables for more than 100 horses, equine and animal centres, a halls of residence and other specialist land-based learning facilities.

Greg Cook, Project Lead at WCG, says: “This was a major project to rewire and install lighting and electrical points across Moreton Morrell College and we are delighted that it was carried out with minimal disruption to operations at the college.”

Ash Integrated Services, ashintegratedservices.co.uk

NEW DEAL TO DELIVER SMART CHARGING

LAKE DISTRICT NATIONAL PARK ELECTRIFIES WITH ROLEC AND AMP EV 2022 is looking like a year of decarbonisation for the Lake District National Park Authority after installing both DC rapid and AC fast electric vehicle charging points at its premises towards the last quarter of 2021.

Rolec’s UFC 200 and Quantum:EV charging pedestals were installed by electrical engineers at AMP EV to enable Lake District National Park’s employees and visitors to recharge their electric vehicles whilst carrying out day-to-day operations or visiting the area.

The installation of electric vehicle charging points comes as the Lake District National Park Authority commits to reaching net zero emissions by 2037.

Rolec’s EV charging points will support the recharging requirements of Lake District National Park’s fleet of BMW i3s, as well as allow visitors to recharge whilst exploring the surroundings of Cumbria. For Lake District National Park, the deployment of EV charging facilities will provide great advantages, such as increased visitor footfall as well as additional revenue via the implementation of chargepoint user tariffs. Integrated with Rolec’s smart back-office management system, VendElectric, Lake District National Park can benefit from features such as chargepoint usage reports and customisable tariff settings, allowing chargepoint operators to make informed decisions on how employees and visitors can access their network of EV charging points.

Electric Miles and Project EV have signed a three-year contract with plans for around 100,000 chargers deployed by Project EV to be exclusively controlled on the Electric Miles Smart Charging platform. As a result, thousands of EV owners will have access to a suite of services including automated charging at the cheapest time, saving drivers money and protecting the transmission and distribution grid from excessive demand at peak periods.

Through the Electric Miles app, drivers will have full control over the charging of their car to ensure it has the right amount of charge for the driver’s needs at the lowest possible cost. At the touch of their smartphone screen, they’ll be able to see the level of charge in their car’s battery to make charging more intelligent and automated.

With the government’s announcement that there will be a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030, hundreds of thousands of EV chargers will have to be in place as a result. The government has made it clear these chargers will need to be smart to reduce the impact on National Grid. It won’t be possible for all EVs to be charging at the same time, without massive investment in transmission infrastructure and power stations.

Electric Miles is already addressing this problem by clubbing its intelligent smart charging platform with its innovative demand side flexibility services, where it balances EV charging with grid constraint. Through deals with three major Distribution System Operators (DSO) it will offer about 23MW of Demand Side Response (DSR). In the future, benefits from providing this service will be shared with the drivers who have allowed their car batteries to be used in this way.

Electric Miles, electricmiles.io

Rolec, rolecserv.com

18 | February 2022

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21/01/2022 14:22

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TRAINING JTL SET TO OFFER NEW DOMESTIC ELECTRICIAN STANDARD JTL says it is proud to continue its work supporting the changing needs of electricians, as it plans to offer the new Domestic Electrician Standard.

Whilst the apprenticeship standard is still in development, JTL is planning to deliver the new Domestic Electrician Standard as soon as it becomes available, which is expected in late 2022/early 2023. Designed to take a minimum of three years to complete, the new Domestic Electrician Standard is intended to culminate in candidates receiving a Level 3 Electrotechnical in Dwellings Qualification, as well as a Domestic Electrician’s Gold Card.

The Domestic Electrician Apprenticeship Standard is intended to train domestic electricians in the best methods for the installation and maintenance of electrical services within domestic dwellings. As part of this course, it is hoped that participants will have the opportunity to explore the use of low carbon technology within the home, potentially including the installation and maintenance of electric vehicle charging points and solar PV systems.

Liam Sammon, Director of Learning and Innovation at JTL, says: “At JTL, we are looking forward to being able to offer this brand-new Domestic Electrician Standard once it’s available, which is expected in late 2022/early 2023. As a not-for-profit work-based learning provider, where all our funding is reinvested in apprenticeship training, we pride ourselves on being able to offer electricians and apprentices

the most comprehensive and up to date training around – ultimately ensuring that safe working practices and high standards are upheld by our electricians.

“Given the growing interest in green technologies, JTL is highly conscious of the need to train our electricians in the

IDEAL INDUSTRIES STEPS UP SUPPORT FOR ELECTRICAL TALENT IDEAL Industries is continuing its commitment to nurturing new talent in the UK electrical sector by sponsoring the SPARKS Learner of the Year contest.

The move is part of a wide-ranging programme of product development and partnerships from IDEAL Industries, aimed at supporting electrical students and apprentices. The company’s activities already include product donations and demos for colleges, along with safe isolation kits developed especially to support a safety-first culture for those training as electricians. Silver sponsorship of the SPARKS Learner of the Year competition reinforces IDEAL Industries’ support for the next generation of professionals and includes a commitment to provide a day’s training for the winner.

The SPARKS Learner of the Year contest is a national competition, with six regional events culminating in a grand final. Participating colleges can enter just one student each, ensuring that the initiative showcases the very best of up-and-coming talent and inspires others.

Around 10-14 contestants will battle it out for each regional accolade, with the regional winners going forward to compete in the final.

The grand final is scheduled to take place over two days during April, and the competition involves a six-hour practical test, judged by NAPIT. As a sponsor, IDEAL Industries will provide products for use in the competition and will be there on the day to watch the electrical students use them as part of the test.

Brett Smyth, general manager of IDEAL Industries EMEA comments: “Our focus as a business is on developing products that make electrical installations faster, safer and more consistent.

Working with trainee and apprentice electricians enables us to highlight the innovative new approaches we have developed and support them with contemporary installation techniques as they begin their careers. We’re proud to sponsor this award and wish all the contestants the very best of luck.”

installation and maintenance of low carbon systems, and we hope that this new standard will prepare them for doing just that.”

JTL, jtltraining.com

J S WRIGHT WINS TRAINING EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARD Mechanical and electrical services specialist, J S Wright, has been honoured with a top regional award for its apprentice training.

The company, which is based in Birmingham and has an office in London, beat off stiff competition to be named as Best Medium Employer at the Greater Birmingham Apprenticeship Awards 2021, held at Edgbaston cricket stadium.

J S Wright was chosen on the success of its academy which, since its launch in 2008, has taken on 55 apprentices on a range of craft and technical courses in which learning skills are also nurtured by existing employees.

The judging panel was impressed with how the apprentices are given a complete understanding of the business and full support through on-site experience and individual mentoring – an approach that has seen no less than 33 of those 55 apprentices still with the company.

Paul Millington, J S Wright Associate Director and Leader of the J S Wright Academy, comments: “I am delighted to have received this

award on behalf of J S Wright. We started our Academy to help our young people develop their careers within the business and to help bridge the skills gap, with the result that we now have a sustainable and highly motivated workforce.”

Phil Leech, Managing Director of J S Wright, adds: “We regard our apprentices as our leaders of tomorrow and invest heavily in instilling in them the leadership qualities and values which have sustained us through our history and are key to our continuing to expand and diversify as an M&E services provider.”

The awards were run by BirminghamLive in partnership with the Ladder for Greater Birmingham campaign, and J S Wright’s award was sponsored by Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP. J S Wright, jswright.co.uk

IDEAL Industries, idealind.com

20 | February 2022

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21/01/2022 14:23

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23/08/2021 09:46

KEY ISSUE

TAKING STOCK OF MANUFACTURING AND SUPPLY ISSUES ACROSS THE GLOBE Making a decision on stock levels is a precarious choice: too much and you risk not being able to sell all the items, too little and you risk disappointing the customer.

O

Of course, the impact has been a huge rise in costs – with the cost of shipping containers rising by at least 400% in the past year, and door-to-door shipping times increasing from 41 to 70 days in the same time period.

Add to this the HGV driver shortage – impacting the UK in particular in the wake of Brexit – which is seeing containers stacked up at ports once they do manage to reach our shores, and it all makes for rather grim reading.

rdering stock when you need it rather than keeping a reserve of items in storage (otherwise known as the ‘just-in-time’ approach) is proving particularly problematic right now, with everything from Chinese coal rationing to the pandemic playing havoc with manufacturing and supply.

Here, Paul Dawson, Commercial Director at Niglon - which now holds 30% more stock to mitigate against demand outstripping supply - calls on contractors to ensure they’re prepared for what lies ahead.

What lies ahead?

Chinese coal cuts

The cost of shipping containers has risen by at least 400% in the past year

No smoke billowing from chimneys, empty workstations, and workers sat around waiting for updates. It’s a sight many of us have become accustomed to in recent months as the Chinese energy crisis plays out across the world’s media.

The dual triggers have been ongoing restrictions around producing electricity using coal (limiting what can be produced in China) and rising global coal costs (limiting their ability to import more to plug the gap). Rather than pass increased costs on to consumers, electricity suppliers are choosing to ration both domestic and industrial users – meaning factories in two thirds of China have seen production cease for hours, or sometimes days, at a time on a regular basis.

While it’s devastating for those in China seeing their lives and livelihoods impacted, the entire globe is feeling the knock-on effects of product shortages due to the semi-closure of so many factories.

Niglon now holds 30% more stock to mitigate against demand outstripping supply

Further concerns have been raised over the lack of prior warning about power outages – there have been claims that some manufacturers are only being notified overnight that their factories won’t be able to open the following day.

It means manufacturers are already at a disadvantage leading up to Chinese New Year (1-11 February) when many workers will travel away from industrial areas to visit family, with a proportion choosing not to return each year. The festivities traditionally cause delays for those purchasing items from China, and the impact looks likely to be felt more acutely in 2022, given the existing disruption.

Trouble at sea Caused largely by pandemic-related lockdowns, with other exacerbating factors like extreme weather affecting parts of the world, to say the global supply chain has been disrupted in the last two years is a gross understatement.

More than three quarters of ports are experiencing abnormally long turnaround times, with no end in sight as experts predict we’ll see the situation continue until at least next summer.

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The phrase ‘this too shall pass’ comes to mind – while an unlucky combination of factors has come together to create the perfect storm (or perfect headache) for manufacturers and suppliers, there is hope that we can emerge from that storm. And it feels likely that ‘just-in-time’ may be replaced with a preference for larger stock reserves across the electrical sector and beyond.

Niglon took the decision to increase its stock levels by 30%, and keep them at this higher level on an ongoing basis. The company had sound business reasons for the choice, but could never have predicted the events which would unfold afterwards – Niglon was lucky that the decision put the company in the best possible position to weather what was to come, and looks set to keep the business running as normal as the global problems continue.

Preparations need to be made throughout the supply chain – that’s why Paul is urging contractors to ensure they’re having conversations with wholesalers, to question how much stock is available and what plans have been made to overcome supply issues. With months of disruption ahead, it’s crucial that these conversations take place now, otherwise there is no guarantee contractors will be able to continue purchasing the products they need for their installations during this time.

And this isn’t just a case of getting through until ‘normality’ resumes. The situation should act as a wake-up call to everyone in the electrical industry that we need to keep preparing for the worst.

That’s not pessimistic – it’s simply a more sensible way to run a business than adopting the ‘just-in-time’ approach.

Because even when the shipping delays and Chinese electricity crisis are resolved, there will undoubtedly be permanent scars left from the pandemic, Brexit, and economic slump, and that’s why continued higher stock levels are – in Paul’s opinion – something we should all be aiming for.

Niglon, niglon.co.uk

/electricalcontractingnews

@ecn_magazine

21/01/2022 14:24

Arc Fault Detection Device Making Electricians Smile!

Combined AFDD and RCBO 1P + N (switched) TYPE A Maximum rating 40A (6kA) Series and Parallel Arc fault Overvoltage protection

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PROJECT FOCUS

TV CAR RESTORER KITS OUT NEW STUDIO WITH SCOLMORE GROUP PRODUCTS Tim Shaw recently acquired new studio premises for a new car restoration TV show, and when it came to fitting it out with electrical accessories, lighting and security products, he opted for solutions from across the Scolmore Group.

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Tim wanted to ‘celebrate’ the products rather than hide them away

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lick wiring accessories, Ovia light fittings, plus door access, emergency lighting and fire detection products from ESP, have all been installed in the two-floor studio, which has been specifically designed by the TV presenter and will be where certain episodes of his show are filmed.

In the new show, Tim will be doing what he is most well-known for – restoring classic cars. However, this time it will be with the help of their owners.

The studio has been kitted out with the very best equipment in the automotive industry and, according to Tim, the Scolmore Group products were on a parr – with their exceptional quality, high performance and reliability noted. It was also the speed and ease of installation of the products that impressed Tim. Just inside the entrance to the studio is a bank of Click metal clad wiring accessories which have been installed to control all the lighting throughout the studio. The GridPro modules featured in the 6-gang plate allow Tim to control specific sections of the lighting as required.

For Tim, it is all about the aesthetics and using the Scolmore items in an unusual way that works particularly well for TV. He wanted to ‘celebrate’ the products rather than hide them away, as is often the case with electrical accessories.

With this in mind, the metal clad switches and a range of sockets have been fitted at a raised height on the walls with the conduit to provide an eye-catching, industrial style look.

Standing in the middle of the studio gives a view of the range of lighting that has been installed and, again, Tim has adopted an unusual approach to fitting the Inceptor U-Lite slimline linear LED luminaires.

Normally hanging from the ceiling, he has opted to install the Inceptor U-Lites in an upright position on the walls, which he says adds a sense of scale but also enhances the lighting when working on the cars, and has really helped with a specific task of identifying dents in the cars. He was also impressed with how easy they were to install – “even I could fit those,” he says.

The U-Lite was designed and developed as the ideal retrofit replacement for single and twin-lamp fluorescent fittings. There are 24 variants in the range, and they come in a range of lengths and in standard, microwave sensor and emergency models. The transparent frosted polycarbonate cover dispenses light outward with an even spread of light.

As Tim discovered, wiring and installation of the U-Lite is quick and easy using the piano type 5-pole push fit terminals. By integrating the diffuser and gear tray and anchoring them to the base, the U-Lite ensures a hassle-free installation without the need to fully disassemble the product to mount and wire it.

A number of Inceptor Slate backlit panels have also been fitted unconventionally, hanging from cable trays rather than as panels fitted into the ceiling.

Again, Tim was keen to make a feature of the lighting products rather than just to provide a solution. These TP(a) rated backlit panels have a low, <19 UGR diffuser, which produces a spread of light that is natural and warm and helps to reduce shadows – an important consideration when filming is taking place. Its pre-wired push-fit 3-Pole Flow connector also makes for quick and easy installation.

When it comes to the Flow lighting management systems, most people will tend to hide these away in cable trays or in ceiling voids. Tim has opted to mount them on the wall, with one or two of these systems per floor of the studio.

Twin Spots from ESP’s Duceri emergency lighting collection have been used to provide vital back up in the case of a power outage. They offer three hours emergency duration, with charge and discharge protection, and feature a vibrant green LED battery charge indicator and push to fit wiring terminals for ease of installation.

electricalcontractingnews.com

Tim Shaw in his car studio

Call points and alarm devices for each zone are wired on separate circuits

With a studio full of expensive cars and top of the range equipment, a key consideration has been protection from fire and theft, and this is where ESP’s security products came into play. Providing fire protection is the MagDuo two-wire fire alarm system – a highly flexible and adaptable system that is designed to save time and money on the installation process.

Two-Wire fire alarm systems are based on standard conventional system technology. Unlike standard conventional four wired systems where the detectors, call points and alarm devices for each zone are wired on separate circuits, MAGDUO utilises intelligent Two-Wire technology, which allows all devices to be wired on the same set of two-core zone cables back to the control panel – enabling it to use a single circuit per zone, both for detection and to power the sounders.

CCTV cover is provided with ESP’s Rekor IP system. Having looked into options quite late in the fitting out process, Tim was relieved to find that he wouldn’t need to send power to each camera, with the cabling requirements that it would involve. The Rekor IP 2 Megapixel range features POE (Power-Over-Ethernet) which enables the camera and power feed to be wired in Cat5e cable up to 100m without the need for additional power, which makes installation much more convenient.

With the ground floor of the studio complete and already being used for filming, work has now commenced on duplicating the facilities on the second floor.

Scolmore, scolmore.com

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21/01/2022 14:26

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16/02/2017 14:45

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21/01/2022 14:14

INTERVIEW

EVERY DAY IS UNIQUE AT AICO Carly Wills speaks to Neal Hooper, Managing Director of Aico, about life at the company and its plans for the future.

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

NH: I was a graduate trainee at F. W. Woolworth and used to read The Grocer magazine. Some of the salespeople I met at head office recommended the career change. They must have thought I needed it! I applied for a job that was advertised.

It was for Robin Electronics, the test equipment company. That led me into this sector, where I have been for all but 10 years since.

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

NH: We are the European market leader in domestic fire and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, as well as providing sensors that combine with the alarms to provide real-time notifications and data through our connected home solutions. We are the only major European manufacturer through our factory in Shannon, Republic of Ireland, employing over 1,000 people.

CW: Tell us about your current role – what are you responsible for and what does the normal working day consist of?

NH: As managing director, I oversee all of our activities in the UK of Aico and HomeLINK, our other group company based in Bristol. A normal working day can consist of internal meetings with other directors/managers, to supply chain meetings, to being involved with our CSR initiatives or attending any of the 160+ events we are involved with this year. Every day is unique, and I love it.

home arena with our industry leading offer.

In turn, this will create more products and sensors for our supply chain.

protection of their health was paramount.

We have all had to ‘make it up’ as we went, following government guidelines, whilst continuing to supply our life safety products that are in huge demand. We were lucky to be able to set two successive record years in 2020 and 2021, so normality continued from that perspective at least.

CW: 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?

NH: Digitalisation and data are synonymous with many conversations. Fortunately, we are leading the way with our connected home solutions through our gateway supplying data through our cloud portal to apps on mobile devices and computers.

Change is the only constant and it is exciting to see that connectivity is helping life safety and general health too. This will also be the biggest change in the future – the information we can view in most aspects of our daily lives will continue to boom. It is already helping people change their daily lives by working from home.

CW: What do you think are the most exciting products or technologies coming to the market?

“Aico has a massively dominant market share of 90%. We will continue to grow this amongst our life safety devices”

CW: What’s next for you and for Aico?

NH: Aico has a massively dominant market share of 90%. We will continue to grow this amongst our life safety devices, whilst making great strides in the connected

NH: Being totally immersed in what we are up to, I cannot see anything more exciting than the connectivity of the technology to improve people’s lives and health, let alone save their lives in the face of a serious incident.

CW: What are your interests away from work?

NH: It is very difficult to completely be away from my role, it is very time-consuming.

Family is important as we have three daughters and two grandsons, with another grandchild on the way. It is wonderful spending time with them. I am always reading and have my own library with nearly 900 books, which gives me tremendous enjoyment and relaxation. I also play golf and follow Wolves – neither of which is relaxing and very often not enjoyable! Travel is vitally important to broaden the mind and to experience this wonderful planet that we inhabit, it must be protected.

Aico, aico.co.uk

CW: What are the best things about your role? What are the most challenging?

NH: People. In both aspects. Luckily, I am surrounded by over-achieving colleagues who care about what they do, care about each other, and live to our values. They inspire me to be at my best and I am proud to be a stakeholder of Aico and HomeLINK alongside them.

People can also be a challenge too and not everybody wishes to aspire to be the best they can be.

CW: How has COVID-19 affected the industry? Do you think things will be finally able to get back to ‘normal’ soon?

NH: COVID-19 has had a massive impact on the world. So many loved ones lost to this vile disease. The UK is similar, as is our whole industry. From a business perspective, people came first. The

26 | February 2022

Interview – Aico.indd 26

electricalcontractingnews.com

@ElecConNews

/electricalcontractingnews

@ecn_magazine

21/01/2022 14:25

NEXT ISSUE

Smart Lighting & Lighting Control

NEXT TIME… In addition to our regular range of news and viewpoints, the next issue of ECN will contain special features relating to smart lighting and lighting control, test equipment and wholesalers and distributors.

The features will include articles and information from major companies, providing a range of information about the latest issues and technological developments affecting the sectors. For electrical contractors, the features will prove to be a valuable reference point for all that is happening within this area.

Test Equipment

Wholesalers & Distributors

FAST, FASTER,

TIME SAVING SCREWLESS CONNECTION TECHNOLOGY

To make sure that you don’t miss this major opportunity to advertise your products to ECN’s 40,000 readers, call Kelly Byne on 01634 673163 / kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com

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28/01/2022 10:13

COMPETITION

INSTALLING WIFI EVERYWHERE

W

Win a WiFi accessory bundle from Timeguard. ith the market entry of trusted brand Timeguard and its three-year warranties, home WiFi has once and for all shaken off its ‘too flaky’ reputation.

Now it’s a mainstream business opportunity for professional installers.

You can add these WiFi enabled accessories to your ‘fit and forget’ list, because they won’t let you or your customers down.

So, look beyond the obvious applications like switching the heating on from the train. With WiFi enabled wall sockets and adaptors, you can give people the ability to control pretty much any appliance in the home, from the dishwasher to a door entry system.

The only limitation is the customer’s WiFi range.

Don’t want to spoil the decor? Fit an in-line adaptor in the roof.

Don’t want to bother with rewiring at all? Then supply your customers with wall socket adaptors or multi-gang trailing sockets or try smart bayonet light fitting adaptors. Or maybe give them confidence to try smart light bulbs and create their own lighting scenes.

The control couldn’t be easier: Timeguard uses only genuine Tuya Smart App chips, giving your customers the smart control solution chosen by manufacturers behind more than half a million IoT devices worldwide. Besides, instructions are freely downloadable at timeguard.com Don’t forget the original Timeguard WiFi devices - the smart fused spur timers, so easily wired into the existing spur back box and providing safety and control.

Want to try these quality Timeguard WiFi accessories? Timeguard will send our winner a selection (contents subject to availability).

For your chance to win a WiFi accessory bundle, simply answer the following questions correctly.

1. Timeguard’s WiFi accessory range includes: a) Hard-wired devices b) Easy plug-in sockets and adaptors c) A mix of both

2. IoT stands for: a) Internet of Things b) Internal OpTimisation c) Independent Override Timing

3. The Tuya App is trusted worldwide to manage: a) 10,000 devices b) 100,000 devices c) 500,000+ devices

December Competition The winner of the December competition – £250 worth of John Lewis vouchers – was Owen Willingham.

Closing date All entries must be returned by 28 February 2022. The editor’s decision is final. For the full terms and conditions, visit electricalcontractingnews.com/ competition-terms.

The name of the winner will be published in the April issue of ECN. *Prize not exchangeable.

To enter, please complete the form below post to: ECN Competition, All Things Media Ltd, Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent, ME5 8UD. Alternatively, you can email your answers and contact details to: carly@allthingsmedialtd.com.

The answers to February’s competition are:

Contact Preferences Y ES, I would like to receive the ECN newsletter Y ES, I would like to subscribe to ECN magazine

1.............................................................................

Y ES, I would like to share my data with Timeguard

Personal Details Name.......................................................................................................................................

Company Name......................................................................................................................

Address...................................................................................................................................

2. . .........................................................................

Signature.......................................................................

................................................................................ Postcode.................................................

Tel................................................................ Mobile ................................................................

3. . .........................................................................

Date..............................................................................

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To register to receive your copy of ECN each month, visit electricalcontractingnews.com/subscribe Competition.indd 22

21/01/2022 14:26

SPECIAL FEATURE

FIRE, SAFETY & SECURITY supported by

FIRE SYSTEM DESIGN SERVICE ESP offer a team of dedicated design engineers who are fully trained & qualified in all of the relevant British Standards such as BS 5839-1:2017, BS 5839-6:2019 & BS 5266.

FIRE SYSTEM COMMISSIONING

ZONE PLANS

A new commissioning service has now been launched to ensure that an installed ESP system operates correctly in accordance with the recommendations of BS5839-1.

As part of the design service, ESP now offer zone plans which will be available as framed hard copies or sent electronically.

email: info@espuk.com

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visit: www.espuk.com

call: 01527 515150

24/01/2022 14:33

@ecn_magazine electricalcontractingnews.com

February 2022 | 29

26/01/2022 14:16

SPECIAL FEATURE

FIRE, SAFETY & SECURITY

ALL YOUR FIRE PROTECTION SOLUTIONS UNDER ONE ROOF Neil Baldwin, Managing Director of ESP, looks at the different types of fire protection solutions available and highlights how ESP’s support for contractors goes way behind the supply of a comprehensive product range.

F

ire alarm systems are broadly divided into two main groupings – ‘conventional’ fire alarm systems and analogue addressable ‘intelligent’ systems – with each type best suited to different kinds of premises.

Conventional systems

The commissioning service offered by ESP adds another dimension to the company’s fire protection offer

Conventional, or four-wire, fire alarm systems have been traditionally used in smaller properties such as shops and restaurants. They work by dividing the building into a number of detection zones, with the detectors and call points within each zone hardwired on dedicated two-core cable to the control panel. There may be multiple detectors on a single zone.

A separate two-core, fire-protected cable for the alarm’s sounders is required as they are wired on different circuits. If a detector is activated, the control panel identifies the circuit that contains the

triggered device and so indicates the zone from which the fire alarm has originated, but the area then has to be manually searched to pinpoint the individual device.

Because the majority of conventional detectors are simple, two-state devices they can only be in either a normal or fire condition. Although modern components and quality system design can play a part in reducing potential problems, it is not uncommon for conventional systems to generate unwanted alarms.

As such, conventional systems are not suitable in large buildings which could potentially have over 50 zones in

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electricalcontractingnews.com

order to correctly protect the property to the prevailing industry standards. A conventional system would prove a costly and time-consuming exercise.

Intelligent systems

The MAGDUO two-wire fire alarm system is aimed at small to medium contractors

Addressable or ‘intelligent’ fire alarm systems overcome these limitations and are designed for large commercial premises and more complex networked systems. They are more expensive and more complicated than conventional four-wire systems, having increased flexibility, intelligence, speed of identification, and scope of control.

@ElecConNews

/electricalcontractingnews

24/01/2022 16:04 @ecn_magazine

26/01/2022 14:16

FIRE, SAFETY & SECURITY

In addressable systems, different types of initiating devices are wired in one or more single loops around the premises, requiring less cabling than conventional systems, with each detector or call point having its own unique address. The fire control panel receives information and status reports from each device and indicates its exact location if there is a fault, contamination or activation via smoke or heat detection. As these control panels have become more sophisticated and more powerful, they are capable of handling an increasing number of loops per panel and it is possible to network numerous panels together to increase the capacity.

Two-wire technology Two-wire fire alarm systems are based on standard conventional system technology.

However, unlike standard conventional four-wired systems where the detectors, call points and alarm devices for each zone are wired on separate circuits, the new intelligent two-wire technology allows all devices to be wired on the same set of two-core zone cables back to the control panel – enabling it to use a single circuit per zone both for detection and to power the sounders. This advanced technology can reduce both installation and material cost.

A range of solutions ESP’s extensive fire protection product range is broadly divided into two categories.

The MAGDUO two-wire fire alarm system is aimed at small to medium contractors, offering them a highly flexible and adaptable system that will save them time and money on the installation process.

The MAGfire range covers conventional, or four-wire, fire alarm systems as well as addressable systems.

Free design service A dedicated ESP design service allows contractors to access a free of charge design facility that will cover fire systems as well as CCTV systems.

Available to any size of business, from local electricians to national contracting companies, the aim is to provide expertise in choosing the right products and solutions to create a scheme that meets all the requirements and objectives of the project in question, and that is compliant with all the relevant regulations and standards.

From an initial enquiry to discuss the requirements, the next stage will be one of information and measurements

gathering. For larger and more complex design schemes, a visit to site will be carried out for a detailed survey. With all the relevant information gathered, including drawings and specifications, a suitable design proposal for a fire system will be created and supplied to the client along with a quotation. Two-way interaction between customer and the ESP design team throughout the process will be of paramount importance to ensure the design scheme meets all the necessary requirements

SPECIAL FEATURE

A dedicated ESP design service allows contractors to access a free of charge design facility

Fire commissioning service The commissioning service offered by ESP adds another dimension to the company’s fire protection offer. It is designed to ensure that all installed ESP systems operate correctly and are fully compliant with the latest BS5839-1 regulations. A qualified engineer will confirm that the system has reached the relevant British Standard and will issue a certificate on completion of the project prior to system handover. Dedicated ESP commissioning engineers are located throughout the UK to provide access to this new service to a wide-reaching audience.

Complete package

ESP now appears on the National BAFE Fire Safety Register

With these latest developments, contractors can now take advantage of a full fire systems package from ESP, which gives them access to a free design service, a vast choice of products including the latest two-wire systems, the new commissioning service, plus technical support from a team of qualified and experienced operators.

ESP, espuk.com

BAFE accreditation for ESP At the end of 2021, ESP added another string to its credentials bow, with the announcement that the company had been awarded BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment) accreditation for its fire design service. BAFE is the independent registration body for Third Party Certified fire safety service providers across the UK, and ESP now appears on the National BAFE Fire Safety Register.

BAFE manages and maintains a scheme called BAFE SP203-1, which covers fire detection and alarm systems.

This scheme exists to deliver quality, independent evidence that providers – like ESP – are competent to deliver fire system designs for its fire detection and alarm systems.

ESP is only permitted to become BAFE Registered and appear on the national BAFE Fire Safety Register once the company holds the appropriate/valid Third-Party Certification. ESP continues to meet the criteria of the relevant BAFE scheme. This establishes robust evidence of competency requirements that demonstrates the provider’s commitment to quality. It also provides assurances to ESP’s customers that the company will deliver a fire system design that complies with all the relevant British standards.

www.espuk.com

Introducing MAGDUO Two-Wire Fire Systems, allows Detectors and Sounders on the same circuit ECN February Strip ads - Design Service.indd 2

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24/01/2022 February 202216:04 | 31

26/01/2022 14:16

SPECIAL FEATURE

FIRE, SAFETY & SECURITY

WHY EVERY CONTRACTOR NEEDS A RISK ASSESSMENT There are many health and safety risks involved with being a professional electrician. To bypass them, it is extremely important that every electrical installation has a thorough risk assessment done – not just to keep on the right side of safety standards, but to genuinely protect contractors and their teams against injury, says Stewart Gregory, VP Power Products at Schneider Electric UK&I.

E

lectrical contractors might feel confident and comfortable with electrical equipment, but the risks associated to the job, like shock and arc flash, warrant extra precautions. In many cases, safe electrical work practices, such as performing a risk assessment for circuits and other electrical installations, can help contractors avoid both shock and arc flash events.

More than just ticking boxes There are, of course, regulations in place that contractors need to abide by. This guidance is in place to ensure the necessary planning and preparation goes into every installation, to secure safety for all involved.

However, the workplace safety standard that requires this risk assessment, NFPA 70E, doesn’t actually detail the specific procedure needed. It is up to the contractor to establish and continually update their own assessment plan.

So, although it may seem obvious, it’s important to have a strong foundational understanding of electrical installation risk assessments, and how to complete them.

An electrical installation risk assessment is a preventative plan of action that aims to identify hazards, assess risks and execute procedures prior to the actual installation.

Throughout the assessment, electrical contractors must determine the likelihood of an incident, and the gravity of the potential injury.

Contractors have to be able to identify potential hazards related to electrical energy

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Despite the lack of specificity, there are key steps required as part of any risk assessment for electrical installations. Every contractor should ask themselves these three questions before starting an installation:

“It’s important to have a strong foundational understanding of electrical installation risk assessments, and how to complete them”

1. What is the likelihood of an incident occurring?

How likely an incident is of occurring will vary depending on the work performed.

For example, there’s a higher chance of an electrical event when performing voltage testing on energised conductors than when operating a circuit breaker handle.

Equipment condition is also a factor that may impact the likelihood of an electrical occurrence, especially if the equipment is improperly rated or maintained.

Contractors working on legacy systems need to consider the potential risks associated with aging equipment.

Because of this, equipment maintenance documents and any relevant safety information are, therefore, a must-have for electrical workers.

2. How serious can potential injuries be?

The gravity of a potential injury depends on the type of electrical occurrence.

For example, for shock hazards, this is simple to determine. The severity of an injury relates back to the voltage and the path that current will follow as it travels through the body. However, for arc flash hazards, the severity gravity is based on the available incident energy at that point in the electrical system. So, being able to identify and understand the incident energy is another key capability.

Incident energy is the amount of energy generated during an arc flash event.

Electrical contractors can estimate this by accessing circuit-specific information in the equipment documentation, such as the clearing time of the upstream overcurrent protection and the available fault current.

Once the incident energy level is known, equipment should be marked according to NFPA 70E requirements, so future workers can quickly identify the incident energy level during servicing.

electricalcontractingnews.com

@ElecConNews

3. What should you do to mitigate these risks?

After determining how likely an incident is to occur, and how severe the fallout may be, the last step should be implementing the relevant risk controls. These include: • E limination: temporarily eliminate the hazard to establish an electrically safe work condition • Substitution: substitute less-hazardous equipment, such as using non-electrical or battery-operated tools instead of cord- and plug-connected • Engineering controls: choose options that automatically reduce risk, including GFCI protection or factory-installed barriers • A wareness: alert people to the hazard by installing permanent or temporary signs, labels, barricades, etc.

• Administrative controls: Complete all front-end work, such as establishing planning processes, attending training, obtaining permits, and clarifying work procedures • PPE: ensure personal protective equipment (PPE), such as insulated tools, clothing, and gloves, are available when needed Having risk controls is a great way to stay safe, but it’s worth noting these will vary between jobs and will depend on the site, which is why each installation requires its own, unique assessment to be truly safe.

The best way to reduce and prevent work related injuries is by increasing the safety around these electrical environments. To do this, contractors have to be able to identify potential hazards related to electrical energy, so they can take all necessary precautions to avoid them. An electrical installation risk assessment is the best option. Not only that, but it’s probably the most important measure when working with and around electrical equipment, so we can guarantee safety and compliance.

Schneider Electric, se.com

/electricalcontractingnews

24/01/2022 16:04 @ecn_magazine

26/01/2022 14:17

Professional Programme

With your help, we’re creating better places to live, work, and play by helping people protect their neighbourhoods.

Untitled-2 Fire, Safety2& Security feature.indd 1

Ring Professional Programme is a free-to-join programme specially designed to educate professional installers on Ring’s range of wholehome security products, how to install them, and the benefits for your customers.

To find out more about the programme, how to join, and Ring’s range of products and services, visit: ring.com/professionalprogramme

“Whether I’m choosing the security products on their behalf, or the customer has already picked them out, it’s Ring every time.

I joined the Ring Professional Programme in order to learn more about best practices for installing Ring products. This helps to reassure my customers about the level of care and professionalism I put into each install, along with the care they’ll receive both before and after the project is completed.”

Martin Maccaffery Maccaffery Electrical

14:31 25/01/2022 11:33

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24/01/2022 15:21

SPECIAL FEATURE

FIRE, SAFETY & SECURITY

THE IMPORTANCE OF ARC FLASH PPE WITHIN THE ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY The electrical industry is full of potential hazards, which means it can be particularly dangerous without thorough training and the correct safety equipment. Here, Health and Safety Specialist, Reece Safety, outlines the importance of arc flash personal protective equipment (PPE), the recent change in safety standards, and why these are required within the electrical industry to minimise risk and protect workers.

A

rc flash incidents have remained prevalent due to the demand for electricity and electrical products. To ensure that workers stay protected at all times, it’s important to follow all the safety procedures in place, as the arc flash protective equipment should be a last resort after all safety measures have been followed.

An ‘arc flash’ is the light and radiation produced as part of an arc fault, a type of electrical explosion that occurs due to a connection through air to ground or another voltage phase in an electrical system. Arc flashes can cause serious injury and even fatalities should the correct safety procedures not be followed, or the industry standard PPE not be worn.

Arc flashes mainly occur during the electrical switching prior to works needing to be conducted in an electrically ‘dead’ environment. Lockout Tagout equipment must be applied to the switches after isolation to avoid accidental re-energisation and avoid the risk of injury or death.

The types of arc flash PPE

Arc flash PPE is essential for all electrical workers

ARC flash new safety standards

What is arc flash PPE?

Every three years the safety standards for arc flash protective clothing are revised and in 2021 the classifications once again underwent some changes. The fifth edition of the CSA Z464 Workplace Electrical Safety Standards have been amended to be closely based upon the NFPA 70E Standards. The changes in regulations will have the biggest impact on the safety procedures as opposed to the protective clothing itself; a thorough read through of the new safety measures is of paramount importance.

Some of the main changes to the new safety standards include:

Arc flash PPE is the last line of defence to protect the wearer from serious injuries, especially from heavy burns due to the thermal hazards an arc flash incident can present. Activities to eliminate the risk are carried out before resorting to the PPE alone. This type of PPE is essential for working in the electrical industry and it is critical to have the right PPE for the job at hand. The protection level offered by the PPE must be assessed in advance through an arc flash study; this is a specific study needed to produce the risk assessment, as per the employer’s obligations in The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, 1999.

• Added guidance on methods that may be used to reduce likelihood of occurrence of an arcing event, or the severity of exposure when incident energy is greater than the arc-rating of commercially available arc-rated PPE • A new method for selecting arc flash PPE for AC voltages has been added • The minimum threshold for potentially hazardous energy was changed from 30V to 30V AC or 60V DC • Additional means of training were added to recognise that training may be achieved by any of several methods, provided that it achieves specific, measurable outcomes.

Arc flashes can cause serious injury and even fatalities

Switching suits are the ultimate in protection from arc flash and these range from 28cal/cm2 to 100cal/cm2. Arc flash clothing from Reece Safety is made from flame resistant material such as a modacrylic or treated cotton and nylon blend, which is comfortable and lightweight while providing good insulation.

IEC 61482-2:2009 is the standard for protective clothing to protect from the hazards of an electrical arc. Arc flash clothing shows the Calorific Value (cal/cm2) as per tests against the IEC 61482-1-1 Open Arc test method, where the ATPV (Arc Thermal Protection Value) can be used to match the values found during the arc flash risk assessments.

Base layers may be worn under switching suits and other arc flash garments to provide the most effective level of protection to the skin, as well as providing extra insulation. Any base layers can only be included in the calculation for protection level if they have been fully tested with the outerwear, as a pair of garments – this is often not fully appreciated and, whilst the protection may be provided, legally speaking the base layer must be ignored. Whilst it has been found that the heat transfer between the outer layer and base layer is not high, it is far safer to wear appropriate fabrics to avoid the risk of other garments melting onto the skin.

High visibility, two-tone and single colour arc flash outerwear can also be worn according to the working areas, such as railways, or other industries where standards of colours exist.

In conclusion, arc flash PPE is essential for all electrical workers.

Layering is a good solution if the layers are fully tested as combined protection.

Face and hand protection are paramount and good options are available to suit frequency of use.

Reece Safety, reecesafety.co.uk

www.espuk.com

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24/01/2022 16:04 @ecn_magazine

26/01/2022 14:18

The European Market Leader in Home Life Safety

RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE WITHIN SOCIAL HOUSING AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

THURSDAY 12TH MAY 2022 | INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE BIRMINGHAM

The Community Awards by Aico|HomeLINK recognise the achievements of inspirational individuals and organisations working within the local community and social housing.

Hosted by George Clarke, Architect and TV presenter, this spectacular awards ceremony will welcome over 300 people and finalists for an evening of celebration and entertainment.

In partnership with

Categories

College Initiative of the Year

Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative

Rising Star Award

Neighbourhood Transformation

Electrical Contractor of the Year

Resident Engagement

Inspirational Colleague of the Year

Lifetime Achievement Award

Sustainability Project of the Year

Women in Fire Safety Award

Best Distributor of the Year

To enter the Community Awards 2022, please email: marketing@aico.co.uk www.aico.co.uk | 01691 664100 | enquiries@aico.co.uk

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21/01/2022 14:14 18/01/2022 12:21:07

SPECIAL FEATURE

FIRE, SAFETY & SECURITY

ELECTRICAL SAFETY ROUNDTABLE: 2021 ROUND-UP 2021 saw the continuation of challenging times, but the Electrical Safety Roundtable (ESR) has not let that stop its progress. The organisation’s significant accomplishments last year demonstrate participant commitment and dedication to improving electrical safety standards and encouraging technical excellence.

E

The ESR’s Workplace Group continued to meet virtually to discuss how to increase awareness

SR’s first Virtual Conference, Shining a Spotlight on Initiatives Impacting Electrical Safety in Homes and Workplaces, took place in May 2021 and was a huge success.

Speakers included Clive Betts MP, Chair of the Housing, Communities and Local Government Select Committee, and Lorna Stimpson, Chief Executive Officer of LABC, among others, with the event attracting nearly 200 guests. Many people from the industry, including local governments, electrical contracting companies, manufacturers, and government officials, attended the event, which was sponsored

by NAPIT and Megger.

Clive Betts, commenting on the conference says: “I was very pleased to be invited to speak at the Electrical Safety Roundtable’s first Virtual Conference and welcomed the opportunity to share highlights from the Housing, Communities and Local Government’s pre-legislative scrutiny of the Draft Building Safety Bill. I look forward to continuing to engage with the work of the Roundtable in the future and value the positive impact on enhancing electrical safety which has been made since its inception in 2012.”

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“This year the Electrical Safety Roundtable’s work will continue to focus on improving electrical safety and standards within the industry”

Chris Bielby MBE, Chair of the ESR in the Home Group for the past 10 years, stepped down in 2021. With his wealth of industry knowledge and experience, as well as a career dedicated to improving safety, the Roundtable thrived under his leadership. Commenting on his time as Chair, Chris says: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Chair of the Electrical Safety Roundtable. It has been a pleasure to work with such a variety of knowledgeable and passionate industry stakeholders. I wish the ESR continued success in the future and will follow its progress with interest.”

Chris Pack, a previous participant of the Electrical Safety Roundtable while working for BEAMA, stepped up as the Home Group’s new chair in November and chaired his first meeting in December. Commenting on his new role, Chris Pack says: “I was delighted to become Chair of the Electrical Safety Roundtable in the Home group. Although I have only been Chair for a few months, I am looking forward to 2022 and am committed to helping the ESR in their mission to improve Electrical Safety.”

In October, the ESR’s Social Housing Sub-group, chaired by Martin Simmonds, published a new guidance document, How to Manage Electrical Systems in Higher-Risk Buildings (HRB). Created to assist those responsible for managing electrical risks within HRBs, its launch event was attended by 90 people from more than 50 different organisations.

The guidance was commended by Dame Judith Hackitt, government-appointed Independent Advisor on Building Safety, who says: “I am very pleased to see this guidance on managing electrical systems in higher-risk buildings published. It shines a spotlight on the importance of electrical safety in higher-risk buildings and the complexity of effective management. I encourage all those involved in the management of buildings to use this guidance.”

electricalcontractingnews.com

@ElecConNews

Commenting on the last year, Martin Simmonds says: “It has been an honour to chair the Electrical Safety Roundtable Social Housing Sub-Group this year. The publication of the How to Manage Electrical Systems in Higher-Risk Buildings (HRB) document was extremely well received by the wider industry and I’d like to note my thanks to the participants of the group for their efforts and commitment. I look forward to continuing to represent the Social Housing Sub-Group at stakeholder meetings and l am excited to see what we can achieve in 2022.”

Additionally, during 2021, the ESR’s Workplace Group continued to meet virtually to discuss how to increase awareness around the many regulations and guidance documents that govern how to manage and monitor electrical safety in the workplace.

The Group has been developing a series of technical information leaflets to provide an overview of often complex regulations and government legislation, such as the Electricity at Work Regulations.

Remarking on the past year, Paul Meenan, Chair of the Workplace Group, says: “I have been overwhelmed by the commitment of the members of the group and grateful for their engagement, innovative solutions and incredible technical expertise. I am looking forward to 2022, which will see the creation of our ambassador endorsement and the publication of more technical leaflets to help raise awareness and standards across the industry.”

Looking ahead, this year the Electrical Safety Roundtable’s work will continue to focus on improving electrical safety and standards within the industry. Building on the success of the two virtual events in 2021, the organisation says that it is looking forward to delivering another engaging event in 2022 to further enhance electrical safety.

Electrical Safety Roundtable, electricalsafetyroundtable.co.uk

/electricalcontractingnews

24/01/2022 16:04 @ecn_magazine

26/01/2022 14:19

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28/01/2022 12:03

SPECIAL FEATURE

UPS, POWER & ENERGY

CMD PUTS UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM’S NEW SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING ON TRACK FOR FUTURE FLEXIBILITY CMD has supplied the power distribution and workstation power modules for the University of Birmingham’s £47 million School of Engineering.

T

he showpiece development will create a centre of engineering excellence for the university, with pioneering facilities that will drive interdisciplinary study and collaboration between the university and private sector companies. The facilities include an anechoic chamber for specialist experiments, and a laboratory environment designed for research into digital railway engineering, complete with a rail cab and hydrogen powered train track.

CMD has supplied more than 1km of its ‘plug and play’ Betatrak busbar powertrack system to enable the installation of an agile power distribution network throughout the building. The 63amp Standard Earth Betatrak system offers effective futureproofing for the state-of-the-art facilities, with ease of reconfiguration and

40 | February 2022

UPS, Power & Energy – CMD.indd 40

the capacity to add or alter the position of tap offs every 30cm.

Alongside the Betatrak system, CMD has also supplied more than 1000 of the company’s Conti under desk workstation power modules and the same number of 210mm grommets, enabling the workstations to connect to the underfloor power distribution network. Working with the client to tailor the under desk workstation units to the requirements of different areas of the building, CMD provided more than 20 Conti configurations, comprising power and prewired data configurations, along with 16A RCBO protection.

CMD was also responsible for the supply of on-desk workstation power modules. The company provided c.1500 Contour on desk modules in anodised silver with white fascias to complement the high tech research environment. Each of these modules combines two 13amp power sockets with twin 5A Type A chargers.

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“CMD has supplied more than 1km of its ‘plug and play’ Betatrak busbar powertrack system”

For the lab areas, CMD also supplied the company’s 77 Series Through Desk Modules, providing power and twin 5A Type A charging for workstation locations.

A number of 20 Series Fast Fit Floor Boxes and Cleaners’ Hives were also supplied by CMD. John Archer, Area Sales Manager at CMD comments: “This project continues our enviable track record in the higher education sector in an environment designed to combine commercial R&D projects with pioneering education and research.

“We were able to offer a complete solution to take power distribution from the switchboard to the point of use at each workstation, with sufficient resilience and flexibility to continue adapting to changing needs in a fast-paced, high-tech setting.”

CMD, cmd-ltd.com

@ElecConNews

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21/01/2022 14:28

Terms and

Feed Unit

CMD Ltd’s 63A Betatrak power distribution system caters for both Standard Earth and Clean Earth (CE) applications.

• 48hr lead time on standard Earth and Clean Earth (C/E) low noise powertrack and feed units (maximum 25 feed units and 50 track lengths).

• Available in lengths of 1.2m, 1.8m, 2.4m, and 3.6m.

Conditions

Apply

Powertrack

On Desk Power

Under Desk Power

Cable Grommet

Tap-off

Standard Earth and Clean Earth (C/E) low noise Betatrak

Call CMD on 01709 829511 or Edmundson Electrical on 0207 2323000 to place your order

TODAY! www.cmd-ltd.com | sales@cmd-ltd.com Untitled-2 2

25/01/2022 14:32

SPECIAL FEATURE

UPS, POWER & ENERGY

ELECTRICAL ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Since the introduction of Appendix 17 in the first edition of the 18th Edition, the electrical industry has seen a steady move and shift in focus towards energy efficiency. With the publication of the 2nd Amendment to the Wiring Regulations, the concept of the prosumer installation has also been introduced, along with a recommendation to measure and monitor energy through the use of an electrical energy management system.

W

e can see a shift to energy efficiency and management through other standards and legislation such as ISO50001, IEC60364, BS:EN16247, SECR and ESOS. Although ESOS and SECR legislation is aimed at larger organisations, we can still look at the concepts and requirements and apply these to all sizes of businesses looking to save energy.

The traditional concept of an energy user as either purely a consumer or producer is also changing and we are now seeing the idea of a user being both, or being a prosumer. This change in how energy is used and produced has occurred as energy efficiency and renewables have become an increasing part of modern installations. This change needs us to look at new ways to monitor and manage energy usage and energy production and enable the user to use this information to manage an installations’ energy.

Energy management systems

Current sensor directional arrow

To enable this management of energy we need an energy management system (EMS). The purpose of an EMS is to help users to save and monitor their energy by utilising sub-metering, current sensors and monitoring software. The EMS should be capable of measuring and recording energy consumption and automatically sending the metered energy data to a software system through a variety of communication methods, such as RS485, for analysis and reporting on the energy usage.

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UPS, Power & Energy – Power Quality Expert.indd 42

Sub-meters Sub-meters are typically seen in a 96x96 form factor and will have a minimum capability to measure active and reactive energy. Additional measurements such as voltage, current, power (W, VA, VAR) and power factor are also common. Modern metering can also enhance the information available to the user by incorporating power quality measurements and monitor for voltage dips, swells, interruptions and harmonics in accordance with BS:EN50160.

Current sensors In order to make the calculation for energy, current measurement is required together with voltage. Current transformers have a primary and secondary current ratio, with the primary current being related to and sized based on the maximum current demand of the conductor, the secondary output of the sensor will be either 5A or 1A. When installing current transformers, it is important to remember they are directional and will have some form of indication on how they need to be orientated during installation.

Typically, we will see a moulded arrow on the sensor which should point towards the load – failure to do this will produce incorrect measurement calculations in the metering.

Prosumer installation

Energy management software The final part of the system is the software.

The goal of this software is to enable the reporting and management of energy and, increasingly, the power quality of the installation. Remote collection of the measurement data through communication protocols such as RS485 or Ethernet can be automated by the software. The measurements from the sub-metering can then be used to generate automatic reports, with the software sending relevant data to specific people or departments based on what they need to know.

By monitoring energy it can be quantified in the same way as other raw materials to help reduce the cost of products or services, with energy consumption data being reported to financial personnel to compare and validate billing data from energy suppliers. Maintenance engineers can have reports on power quality measurements to help identify the possible causes of malfunctions (interruptions, harmonic distortion,

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etc.) and help to manage preventative maintenance activities through the observation of energy inefficiencies.

Other aspects of the energy and power usage control can also be automated. By monitoring when and where energy is being used, the EMS can remotely control processes to improve energy efficiency. Power can be turned on or off by sending notifications and managing the automation of processes based on a calendar or on electrical values or events detected by the sub-metering.

Environmental measurements such as air quality, temperature and light can also feed into the system to provide valuable information on the installation and provide further information to automate energy consumption.

The future of energy measurement

Sub-meter

As installations continue to move to the new prosumer model, the need for energy to be monitored to ensure a return on investment on power generation systems (renewables) and to manage the energy produced in the most efficient way will become more prevalent. This need for energy management will open up opportunities to install sub-metering and energy management systems to an established customer base driven by regulations, legislation, standards and a desire to reduce energy consumption.

Power Quality Expert, powerqualityexpert.com

@ElecConNews

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24/01/2022 09:29

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27/01/2022 17:19

SPECIAL FEATURE

UPS, POWER & ENERGY

FIVE PREDICTIONS FOR THE ENERGY AND UTILITIES INDUSTRY IN 2022 David Hall, VP Power Systems at Schneider Electric UK and Ireland talks us through the company’s predictions for the top five trends that will fuel the next stage of the energy management revolution in 2022.

T

he global shift towards more climate-conscious energy efficiency has accelerated the need for sustainable technology to deliver a cleaner, greener, and fairer energy system.

The UK’s 2050 Net Zero pledge deadline looms. Together, the IPCC’s latest report on climate change, COP26 and the UK government’s 10-point-plan for a green industrial revolution have added greater focus. Businesses and consumers alike have a growing appetite for sustainable initiatives.

Technologies for renewable electricity generation, energy storage and power grids are essential to decarbonise existing supply and meet growing electricity demands from the rapid electrification of buildings, transport, and industry. Clean technology, modern power systems and green energy sources present a vast investment opportunity for businesses.

Considering this, here are Schneider Electric’s predictions for the top five trends that will fuel the next stage of the energy management revolution in 2022.

Electric vehicles: push the pedal on a low carbon future

EV service technician installing a terminal

The UK government has already set a clear direction for the industry by banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 and trucks by 2040 to reduce carbon emissions and stimulate the ‘green economic recovery’.

As the adoption of EVs accelerates, however, the added pressure they place on ageing electricity networks will continue to increase.

Energy companies and the government must incentivise the transition to electric vehicles towards a low carbon future.

A big part of this is ensuring that the infrastructure and power supply match the demand for EVs. Work is underway to put in place a more resilient foundation to connect and power more significant numbers of EV charging points. DNOs need to work quickly and get this right to enable a successful transition from petrol and diesel to EVs and ensure a positive impact across the broader energy network.

Microgrids fit for the future Another important area to get the ball rolling on sooner rather than later is to ensure the grid is ready for a digital future.

More and more of our energy supply will come from disparate renewable resources, such as microgrids and intermittent renewable energy sources – creating a need for a more decentralised energy supply network.

According to Schneider Electric’s recent research, 25.4% of UK and Ireland businesses claim to have installed a microgrid or renewable power source (e.g., solar or wind) to reduce their environmental impact. While offering a reliable alternative to the traditional central power grid, the grid itself needs to cope with more complex and bi-directional flows involved with these new technologies and monitor supply and demand more effectively. Investing in the digital grid will be critical to opening up these possibilities for a more clean and efficient energy supply network in 2022.

The need for sustainable technology to deliver a cleaner, greener, and fairer energy system has accelerated

With the focus on sustainability and COP26 taking the world by a storm last year, it is clear businesses need to ensure this is a priority in their plans. In fact, according to Schneider Electric research, more than nine out of 10 (91.5%) UK and Ireland respondents said reducing their carbon footprint is a priority for their organisation, with a quarter of businesses (27.4%) saying it is their top priority this year.

As we move into 2022, we will be focusing more on ensuring these climate ambitions turn to action. Businesses must act now to handle energy management better to reduce energy waste and create a greener future.

Acting sustainably, reducing our carbon footprint, and building smarter cities is the only way we will reach net zero targets.

SF6 (sulphur hexafluoride), while rare in the atmosphere, is one of the most potent greenhouse gases in the world. One tonne of SF6 has the same global warming potential as 23,500 tons of carbon dioxide.

Most SF6 used in the electrical industry is for electrical insulation and current interruption within power networks.

Replacing SF6 with pure air solutions is essential to reducing environmental risk across power networks. SF6 currently has a special exemption for use in electrical distribution across many geographies.

However, as alternatives become more readily available, the EU and a range of countries and territories are considering measures to restrict its use, which we expect to hear more about this year.

UPS, Power & Energy – Schneider.indd 44

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The growth in clean energy projects such as wind power is essential to a more sustainable world. It’s becoming more apparent that wind energy is more efficient, produces no greenhouse gas emissions and is becoming increasingly popular as a renewable energy source. By 2040, the world of electricity will be profoundly different: the share of electricity in everything we do will double, reaching at least 40% of final energy consumption, and six times more electricity will be generated from solar and wind. Even with its benefits, connecting wind to the power grid brings with it a unique set of challenges, including surges, dips, distortions, and stringent grid code requirements.

Next year, wind developers should also look towards combining wind generation with energy storage to be more flexible.

The time is ripe for increased investment in onshore wind.

Net zero commitments at the heart

SF6-free – the silver bullet to sustainability

44 | February 2022

Embrace the growing opportunity in onshore wind

Schneider Electric, se.com

@ElecConNews

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24/01/2022 09:28

UPS, POWER & ENERGY

SPECIAL FEATURE

MITIGATING RISK TO UPS INSTALLATION Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) are designed to protect critical loads and to mitigate risk to critical infrastructures, including data centres. However, care needs to be taken as risk to the load can be re-introduced through the UPS itself, writes Tim Ng, Sales Engineer at Centiel UK.

T

he three biggest risks are: purchasing a lesser quality UPS system without realising the implications of doing so, the use of unapproved maintenance procedures and not replacing aging equipment at the appropriate time. As a result, failure can have far reaching consequences for the operation in terms of damaged reputation and lost business due to unexpected downtime.

Replacement before failure Most (sensible!) people replace their cars before they get to the point where they keep breaking down. It’s the same with a UPS. Inevitably, as equipment ages, components become less reliable and available, and the risk of failure is increased. However, we regularly come across UPS systems that have significantly exceeded their recommended design life and should have been replaced years ago. To be blunt, by continuing to run and maintain an aging UPS you are putting your trust in a system with a much higher probability of failure.

Sometimes it’s down to a lack of technical guidance about when to make the decision to replace the UPS, but more often than not, it’s down to securing budget.

However, in the event of a major outage and a situation where an ageing UPS fails, a business could lose millions for the sake of a small investment in new equipment.

There are also significant gains to be made.

For example, modern UPS systems are far more efficient and can slash operational expenditure dramatically.

Picture a data centre with 1MW of critical load supported by a UPS system with an efficiency of 90%. Based on an average unit price of 14p/kWh the running cost of this UPS will be around £135,000 per year. Now picture a new UPS supporting the same load at the same p/kWh but with an efficiency of 97% - the running costs are reduced dramatically to around £38,000 per year. If you consider that the average commercial electricity p/kWh is projected to increase by as much as 40% in 2022, this makes a very strong case to replace ageing inefficient equipment.

A new UPS could pay for itself in just a few years.

Quality counts

“In the event of a major outage and a situation where an ageing UPS fails, a business could lose millions for the sake of a small investment in new equipment”

At Centiel, the company’s engineers work closely with clients to advise what actions are required

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UPS, Power & Energy – Centiel.indd 45

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When selecting a UPS, it is important to make the right choice. If a quote appears to be too good to be true, maybe it is! Quality equipment and components can cost more but there is a reason for this. Manufacturers invest heavily into research and development to ensure that the components selected for use in their products meet a strict set of performance standards. This means that they can deliver the most robust and reliable systems to their clients. Ultimately, the aim of any quality UPS manufacturer is to produce a system that has the highest availability, with reduced running costs and minimised risk of system downtime.

Maintenance matters As with any new car, using an unapproved technician to service your UPS will likely invalidate the warranty. A new UPS should always be maintained by an approved factory trained engineer or manufacturer recommended maintenance technician.

A UPS requires regular preventative maintenance. An essential part of this is for the correct software updates to be deployed, which ensures optimal functionality.

Sometimes unapproved engineers will take on a maintenance contract that they are unable to fully support. As well as invalidating warranties, essential software updates will be missed, which can impact the UPS’s functionality. The consequence of using unapproved engineers can be serious.

For example, putting a UPS into bypass for maintenance using an incorrect switching sequence can introduce a fault into the system, causing catastrophic failure.

Correct preventative maintenance will also enable ageing components to be identified and replaced early. Environmental factors, such as temperature and dust, can also invalidate warranties and reduce the life span of the UPS. Trained maintenance engineers will monitor these issues and take corrective action where necessary.

A further benefit of using approved factory trained engineers is that they can become a trusted advisor. At Centiel, the company’s engineers work closely with clients to advise what actions are required, following preventative maintenance to maximise the performance of their systems.

A UPS will protect the critical load to a datacentre for many years. However, to mitigate the risk of the failure of the UPS itself, select a quality solution, ensure it is maintained correctly and replace the equipment before it reaches the end of its design life.

Centiel, centiel.co.uk

February 2022 | 45

24/01/2022 09:30

SPECIAL FEATURE

WIRING ACCESSORIES

RESTORING KINGS HOUSE BACK TO ITS FORMER GLORY Hamilton’s Hartland G2 collection balances modern day living and Victorian grandeur in a luxury development.

Mortar Nova Grand Avenues tasked Portsmouth-based electrical contractor, MR Electrical, to source and install electrical wiring accessories that would balance the requirements of

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Wiring Accessories – Hamilton.indd 46

MR Electrical selected Hamilton Litestat and its electrical wiring solutions for Kings House

the development’s form and function, while adhering to the high-quality finish expected of such prestigious accommodation. The solution was required to provide accents of the past, while delivering residents the functionality and convenience of a modern solution.

The solution MR Electrical selected Hamilton Litestat and its electrical wiring solutions for Kings House, having used the British brand and its comprehensive range for prestige projects in the past.

Hamilton’s Hartland G2 design was chosen for its high quality and contemporary screwless finish. Its highly engineered design means that it is a simple and practical ‘push-to-fit’ solution that is also competitively priced due to streamlined components.

To meld the contemporary design with the period property aesthetic, Hartland G2 switch plates and sockets were used in an antique brass finish with black inserts, complementing the brass fixtures used throughout the luxurious development, such as door, cupboard, and window furniture, as well as the bathroom fixtures and fittings.

Available in a wide range of configurations – with Grid and EuroFix plates also an option – Hartland G2 2-Gang Double Pole Switched Sockets were positioned in convenient locations throughout each apartment.

Beside the beds and in the lounge areas of the higher specification properties, the functionality of the dual switched sockets was upgraded to incorporate 2.4A USB Ultra charging outlets. Meanwhile, lighting is controlled throughout with a mixture of 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-Gang Rocker Switch Plates in the same finish of antique brass with black inserts.

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Each kitchen features an antique-styled mirrored splashback. Installed within these splashbacks are two double switched sockets and a 2-Gang 2-Way Grid Plate that controls the integrated strip LED lighting that illuminates the kitchen units. The apartments with larger kitchen areas feature 3- and 4-Gang Grid Plates to control the additional electrical requirements for the space, such as fans, pelmet lights, downlights, and island pendants. The advantage of Hamilton’s Grid solution being the vast module option available is that the plate could be tailored to an apartment’s exact specification.

In both the Residents’ Lounge and each apartment lounge, EuroFix media plates were installed, which include a TV+FM/ DAB+SAT1+SAT2 Quadplexer. There is also a RJ45 CAT6 outlet for internet access.

The same media plate is also installed in bedrooms that feature a plasma television facing the master bed.

The result The stunning property is finished with the greatest attention to detail, providing all the luxury of a Victorian property with modern conveniences that keep today’s owner front of mind.

Graham Wiggins, Technical Director at MR Electrical, says: “Hamilton has always been our go-to supplier when providing prestige wiring accessory options to our clients. As a British company, it manufactures extremely high-quality products, and its customer service team is always supportive when it comes to finding the right solution – or even a bespoke one – for a project. In the case of Kings House, we selected the Hartland G2 range as it is a high-quality, push-to-fit plate design that is easy to install. The comprehensive Grid-IT and EuroFix range meant that we could also tailor the plates for each of the apartment specifications, as well as fulfil all the needs of the Residents’ Lounge.

We are delighted to see how well the accessories integrate with the appearance and style of the apartments.”

Hamilton, hamilton-litestat.com

Rego Property/Richard Hurly

The brief

Rego Property

The solution was required to provide accents of the past and deliver the convenience of a modern solution

Rego Property/Richard Hurly

K

ings House, Hove, is a Grade II listed building with uninterrupted sea views, looking out over Hove Lawns and promenade. Built in the early 1870s, it was originally a terrace of large houses but has now been meticulously refurbished into 69 luxurious one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses.

During its time, the building has transformed from residential properties into a hotel, a base for the Royal Navy in WWII, and into commercial offices, but in 2017 developer Mortar Nova Grand Avenue purchased it with the aim of restoring it to its former residential grandeur.

Located within the Avenues Conservation Area, the seven-storey building maintains its Victorian opulence with the original architectural features replicated or reinstated.

One of the development’s focal points is the Residents’ Lounge, which offers a beautiful and functional communal space to relax, meet friends and family, or to conduct business. Its bold colour scheme sets the tone for the development, with Farrow & Ball Hague Blue and Radicchio Crimson making an opulent statement on the walls and woodwork.

Kings House achieves the developer’s vision of creating properties that provide owners with everything they expect from modern living, combining that contemporary feel with a nod to the building’s lavish past.

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24/01/2022 09:30

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Untitled-2 2

25/01/2022 14:34

SPECIAL FEATURE

WIRING ACCESSORIES

WIRING ACCESSORIES — A CLEAN BILL OF HEALTH Scolmore’s Click Mode wiring accessories have recently undergone further independent testing and have achieved a 99.98% kill off rate against Influenza A (H1N1). Here, Katie Plumstead, Marketing Manager, Scolmore Group, looks at some of the issues surrounding the supply of electrical products to the healthcare sector.

I

nfection control is one of the biggest challenges facing the healthcare sector and, as the fight to overcome new variants of the COVID-19 virus continues, there is an increasing emphasis on infection control and building cleanliness.

Healthcare associated infections (HCAI) arise across a wide range of clinical conditions and can affect people of all ages. They can exacerbate existing or underlying conditions, delay recovery and adversely affect quality of life. A number of factors can increase the risk of acquiring an infection, but high standards of infection prevention and control practice, including providing clean environments, can minimise the risk.

The question for our industry is what are the issues and requirements surrounding the supply and installation of electrical equipment? Anyone operating within and supplying to this sector is required to work with products that meet the demands for hygiene and safety, and that includes electrical products.

Switch plates, such as light switches, dimmers and sockets have one of the highest touch rates in any environment, so are likely to hold a significant number of microbes on their surfaces. Whilst regular and rigorous cleaning of these settings is essential, the use of products with antimicrobial properties will also have a part to play to help inhibit the spread of infection.

For contractors and installers working within a healthcare setting, they will seek the reassurance from manufacturers that the products they are specifying and installing meet the required standards and that they are able to supply the test certificates to prove it.

48 | February 2022

Wiring Accessories – Scolmore.indd 48

“Infection control is one of the biggest challenges facing the healthcare sector”

Advanced hygiene properties

Medical solutions

Scolmore continues to invest to ensure that its wiring accessory products offer enhanced hygiene properties. The company’s Mode, Mode Part M and Polar plates have recently undergone further independent testing and have achieved a 99.98% kill off rate against Influenza A (H1N1) after a 24-hour period.

This latest testing further boosts the range’s hygiene credentials. Independent testing previously undertaken has also shown the products to have anti-viral properties against enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. After a contact period of four hours, all tested plates were shown to have a 99.9% kill off rate against enveloped viruses and a 92% kill off rate against non-enveloped viruses. This anti-viral testing is in addition to the anti-bacterial testing already carried out. Mode, Mode Part M and Polar ranges are all manufactured using Urea Formaldehyde, which has similar inherent properties to antimicrobial additives that inhibit the growth of infectious diseases. When independently tested, all products achieved a 99.99% kill off rate across all four types of the strains of bacteria – MRSA, E-Coli, Salmonella and Klebsiella Pneumonia.

These antibacterial and antiviral certified switches and sockets are part of Scolmore’s Medical Solutions range, which also includes blue ‘Medial Equipment Only’ sockets; red and green outboard rocker switched socket outlets; key lockable switches and sockets; locating sockets; wide rocker switches; Part M visually contrasting wiring accessories; and the IEC Lock unique lockable connectors.

This comprehensive range of medical solutions means that specifiers, contractors and installers can provide healthcare establishments with products that meet the requirements of BS 7671 (IET wiring regulations). They are intended to be used by healthcare organisations and medical device suppliers responsible for permanent electrical installation of medical devices and associated equipment.

Products from the Mode, Mode Part M and Polar ranges have been specified and installed across a huge range of applications including hospitals, care homes, schools, hotels, offices and leisure complexes.

Scolmore, scolmore.com

Testing certification The standard used to qualify Scolmore’s products is ISO 22196. The standard ISO 22916 test method is designed to test the ability of plastics and other similar materials to kill or prevent the growth of microorganisms, over a 24-hour period of contact. ISO 22196 is one of the most commonly requested antimicrobial surface test methods for evaluating the antimicrobial activity of antibacterial treated plastic products.

Scolmore Group says that it is happy to share test reports on request.

electricalcontractingnews.com

@ElecConNews

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@ecn_magazine

24/01/2022 09:31

Metway Lighting Controls

- On / Off Occupancy / Absence detection - Switching or DALI dimmable versions - Intelligent photocell - Manual override - Commissioning via hand held programmer - Surface mount option - Pre leaded or stand alone - Standalone System - 8 and 10 output units - Absence or presence detection - Standalone System - Side Latching outputs - Dimming or non-dimming -

Untitled-1 2

26/01/2022 09:29

SPECIAL FEATURE

WIRING ACCESSORIES

OFFICE UPGRADE BUILDS ON CMD’S POWERFUL LEGACY A recent project delivered by London-based electrical contractor, Bancroft, using products from CMD, highlights the importance of selecting high quality products from a trusted manufacturer, along with choosing supply chain partners that can work proactively as an integral part of the delivery team.

L

A recent project delivered by Bancroft used products from CMD

50 | February 2022

Wiring Accessories – CMD.indd 50

ocated in the heart of the City, the project involved the refurbishment of a prestigious London office building for one of the world’s leading professional services firms. The client is based in offices spanning a total of 15 storeys across two towers and the initial plans for the refurbishment had focused on reconfiguration of the desk layouts to meet their revised requirements, along with upgrades to the interior fit out and finishes.

The client’s intention had been to retain the underfloor power distribution networks and focus the refurbishment on cosmetic upgrades to the office interiors, with Bancroft tasked with a light-touch electrical upgrade to include new lighting, kitchen areas and tea points, along with reconfiguration of power sockets for the new layouts.

Ryan Collis, Project Director at Bancroft, explains: “The previous electrical fit out of the building had been specified and installed with flexibility and futureproofing in mind, with a powertrack power distribution network, which offered scalability and adaptability. The legacy system was CMD’s AlphaTrak powertrack, which had been installed 20 years earlier, and, when we tested it, the CMD power distribution system was still fully functional and compliant after two decades of use.

“However, due to the publication of changes to wiring regulations since the previous installation, the existing tap-off leads could not be re-used as originally planned, due to a lack of mechanical protection. We turned to CMD to help us find a solution that would enable the AlphaTrak system to remain in place and be re-used, while updating the tap-offs to deliver a compliant installation.”

CMD’s AlphaTrak powertrack system has been discontinued and replaced by the company’s Betatrak powertrack system since the power distribution networks were installed in the two office towers. However, CMD was able to custom-design and manufacture 3000 new tap-offs for the new interior layout so that the electrical upgrade could go ahead within the original timescale, while re-using the AlphaTrak system and delivering a compliant installation.

Paul Allen, National Sales Manager (Power Distribution) at CMD comments: “Without compatible new tap-offs to

make the power distribution network compliant with current wiring regulations, Bancroft would have needed to take out the powertrack on every floor and install a new system, which would have meant a huge additional cost in terms of products, programme length and project scope.

“We were able to adapt our compliant Betatrak tap-off technology to fit the 20-year-old AlphaTrak installation, thereby minimising the impact on costs and programme delivery. And, because we manufacture in-house in the UK, we were also able to fast-track the order, helping Bancroft to keep the project on track.”

Joined-up supply Alongside the new tap-offs, CMD also supplied new grommets, cleaner’s hives, lighting hives and the company’s fast-fit 20 Series floor boxes, which provide ease of access to power sockets and data.

CMD also supplied the Rotasoc modular workstation power system for the project, which was configured to accommodate the sit/stand desks specified for the new office environment. A 2-gang Rotasoc module with RCD protection was specified for the

electricalcontractingnews.com

lower tray of each workstation, with a two metre connector lead to a 4-gang Rotasoc module on the upper tray. In this way, the lower tray module provides RCD protection for the entire workstation, and desk height can be adjusted easily to meet the needs of each user, without any restriction.

As many of the occupier’s team are still working from home, Bancroft has been able to carry out the installation in two phases. All office-based staff were relocated to a single tower to provide vacant possession of the other tower for refurbishment, and then decanted across while the second tower is completed.

Ryan adds: “We completed the west tower by the end of 2021 and are now working on the east tower. Close collaboration with CMD means that we have been able to call down the products we need for each phase in real time as the project progresses. CMD has aligned their manufacturing schedules for the custom-manufactured tap-offs to our programme requirements, which has helped us schedule work aligned to the client’s expectations.”

The project involved the refurbishment of a prestigious London office building

CMD, cmd-ltd.com

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COMPANY SHOWCASE

SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY

MAJOR BOOST FOR MERIDIAN OUTDOOR LIGHTING Meridian Lighting is targeting the domestic and light commercial markets with a new portfolio of decorative outdoor lighting.

Starting with polycarbonate Wall-Mounted Step Lights, there are square, round and rectangular/horizontal options. Built with ABS housing and PVC diffusers, this IP65 range with 1.5w to 7w SMD LEDs, is finished in light grey and boasts colour change technology offering warm, cool or daylight output.

A second range of aluminium Step Lights includes wall-mounted and built-in fittings, with rectangular/vertical or square versions of each. In anthracite grey and again with SMD LEDs (1.5w to 4w), this IP44 range delivers a 3000k warm white output.

Stainless Steel Bollards complete the new ranges. Designed for GU10 LED lamps, there are IP54 rated 650mm bollards, one slatted and one in black, and a mini twin IP65 option plus a 1.1m black bollard taking A60 lamps or up to 12w LEDs. With die-cast tubular bodies and clear glass diffusers, bollards include base anchoring plates.

With CE and UK/CA approvals, warrantees are three years for step lights and one for bollards.

ANSELL LAUNCHES POWERFUL Z LED PLUS Offering an impressive efficacy of 200 Lm/W, the Z LED Plus is a powerful new addition to Ansell Lighting’s Z LED high bay lighting range.

Highly efficient, the luminaire delivers optimum lighting performance and optics, reducing the number of fittings required to achieve desired illumination levels, lowering power consumption and energy costs.

The first of 30 new products set to be revealed during 2022 to mark Ansell Lighting’s 30th anniversary, Z LED Plus is ideal for a range of industrial, commercial and retail settings thanks to its versatility and durability.

Designed with a high resistance to corrosion and wear and tear in mind, the IP65 rated Z LED Plus provides full protection against ingression from water and dust and is suitable for installation in harsh and high dependency environments. It also has a high impact rating of IK08, ensuring the fixture can withstand potential knocks and impacts. Thermal management has also been cleverly considered, with the heat produced by the fitting designed to dissipate away from the fixture, extending its lifetime and ensuring no premature failures.

Ansell Lighting, anselluk.com

CED Electrical, cedelectrical.co.uk

GESIS FLEX NOW WITH DALI2 GATEWAY Wieland Electric’s established gesis FLEX series is expanded with the new KNX DALI Gateway. It allows direct communication between the two interoperable and well-known systems, KNX and DALI 2. As a result, it communicates with devices from other manufacturers that are certified in these systems on both sides.

The device covers practically the complete spectrum of lighting control in terms of capability.

It can be utilised for both simple office applications, such as grouping and regrouping connected luminaires in open office areas, and more complicated lighting situations with RGBW and Tunable White requirements. The device’s broad parameter set includes scenes and time controls, as well as operational hours tracking.

Simple handling and easy implementation of the construction process criteria were prioritised throughout the device series.

The device is mounted decentrally, that is, without the use of a separate casing.

All electrical connections are pluggable, ensuring the quickest, easiest, and safest installation procedure for the most pluggable electrical installation available on the market.

Wieland Electric, wieland.co.uk

VENT-AXIA PROVIDES VENTILATION FOR GIVING BACK CRAWLEY’S HQ REFURBISHMENT

COLD WEATHER WORKING WITH SNICKERS WORKWEAR’S SUSTAINABLE CLIMATE CONTROL Dressing right and staying comfortable when it’s cold and wet demands the best in climate control working clothes Continuous work in cold weather produces body heat and sweat. But when your rate of work slows, the sweat cools and you’ll start to feel cold and damp. The solution is Snickers Workwear’s body-mapping Mid-layer working clothes that deliver advanced ventilation to control and regulate the heat from your body.

Made to last from sustainable fabrics such as micro fleece and recycled polyester, they’re great for both work and leisure activities. These garments insulate and keep heat around your body by effectively creating an air pocket inside your clothes.

They complement Snickers Workwear’s FlexiWork Base-layer undergarments that combine sustainable animal-friendly Merino Wool with polyamide for warmth and ventilation.

As well as the Top-layer or ‘outer shell’ AllroundWork and Flexiwork weatherproof jackets and trousers, they will keep you warm, dry and comfortable all day long.

Snickers Workwear, snickersworkwear.co.uk

BAFE ACCREDITATION FOR ESP

Vent-Axia has donated ventilation units to local charity, Giving Back Crawley, as part of the refurbishment of its new base. A small charity that serves the local homeless community, the building needed a complete refurbishment following water damage.

To provide effective ventilation for the base, Vent-Axia donated two T-Series roof ventilation models that were installed in the kitchen and servery area. These units will allow for extract ventilation from the kitchen and supply or extract from the servery area. Meanwhile, for the laundry area, Vent-Axia supplied a HR200WK heat recovery ventilation, which was installed with a Vent-Axia Ecotronic Humidity sensor to help deal with any humidity issues that may lead to condensation and mould.

Finally, Solo Pro extractor fans with timers were installed in the toilets.

“We are delighted to be able help this fantastic local charity create a permanent base from which to provide hot meals and a variety of support to the local people who need their help”, said Lena Hebestreit, Marketing Manager at Vent-Axia.

ESP says it is proud to announce that it has been awarded BAFE accreditation for its fire design service. BAFE is the independent registration body for Third Party Certified fire safety service providers across the UK, and ESP now appears on the National BAFE Fire Safety Register.

BAFE manages and maintains a scheme called BAFE SP203-1 which covers Fire Detection and Alarm Systems.

This scheme exists to deliver quality, independent evidence that providers – like ESP – are competent to deliver fire system designs for its fire detection and alarm systems.

ESP is only permitted to become BAFE Registered and appear on the national BAFE Fire Safety Register once the company holds the appropriate/valid Third-Party Certification. ESP continues to meet the criteria of the relevant BAFE Scheme. This establishes robust evidence of competency requirements that demonstrates the provider’s commitment to quality. It also provides assurances to ESP’s customers that the company will deliver a fire system design that complies with all the relevant British Standards.

ESP, espuk.com

Vent-Axia, vent-axia.com

52 | February 2022

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electricalcontractingnews.com

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27/01/2022 12:20

SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY

SCRUB UP NICELY WITH KNIGHTSBRIDGE BATHROOM ACCESSORIES Knightsbridge offers a range of wiring accessories to complement any décor, from shaver sockets to pull cords.

The company supplies more than 30 different types of shaver socket in a huge array of colours, finishes and fixings, to suit every style of bath and washroom. As an example, sockets can be screwless, flat plate, raised edge, or round edge and finished in a variety of matt and reflective metal finishes – matt black, polished brass, and gunmetal to name a few. Many of these also come with a choice of black, white, or grey inserts, offering the buyer huge flexibility in choice.

The shaver sockets can be matched to other wiring accessories, such as two-way plate switches and fan isolator switches. Knightsbridge also offers a grid fan isolator grid module, which takes up just a single grid position. This module can be finished in polished chrome, brushed chrome, white, matt white, matt black, and (more recently) gun metal.

The pull cord switches are offered in polished chrome, metal matt black, brushed chrome, black nickel, antique brass, white and matt white – with matching pull cords.

COMPANY SHOWCASE

NEW LED STREET LIGHTING RANGE FROM OVIA Ovia continues to expand its floodlight range and the latest addition is the Gator range of LED Street Lighting with CTA Switch.

With an IK10 housing and IP66 rated, Gator is ideal for lighting larger outdoor areas, such as car parks and walkways, and is designed to be quick and simple to install via toolless entry, with the toolless gear tray allowing for easy maintenance.

There are three size/wattage options to choose from – large (135W), medium (65-100W) and small (20-40W) – and they offer 50,000-hour lifetime and 85° x 150° beam angle. They are available in a grey finish and come with a five-year warranty.

The reversible mount option is an additional feature. The mount bracket can be rotated and pivoted to allow for vertical or horizontal fitment with no additional joints required. The Spigot size is 76mm and a wall bracket is available. The shorting cap can be replaced with a photocell sensor to assist with energy saving.

Ovia, oviauk.com

ML Accessories, mlaccessories.co.uk

MAKITA: SHINING A LIGHT ON IMPROVED PRODUCTIVTY Makita UK has added two new cordless tower lights to its wide range of lighting solutions. The DML813 and DML814 are the perfect additions to any jobsite during the darker months.

The DML813 and DML814 18V LXT Cordless Tower Lights feature 12 daylight white LEDs that deliver up to 3,000 lumens and mimic natural daylight. With three settings to choose from, professionals can easily adjust the output to suit the working conditions. The the DML814 also features three light heads that can be pivoted independently.

Both the DML813 and DML814 are height adjustable (from 125-224cm), making them suitable for use at ground level and at height. The tripod stand is easily operated using a lock-release button – and it can be secured to the ground with screws or pegs for maximum stability. At the end of the day, the DML813 and DML814 can be neatly folded up for simple storage and transportation.

Makita, makitauk.com

NEW LUCECO LIGHTING SOLUTIONS SPECIFICATION GUIDE Luceco has recently launched a new publication demonstrating the range and diversity of its LED luminaires. The company has showcased new fittings servicing the healthcare, education, retail, hospitality, industrial and commercial industry sectors.

Notable luminaires include Sigma and Callisto, as well as new wireless lighting control systems.

Sigma is an installer friendly, direct/indirect recessed luminaire for low glare applications to assist with LG7 compliant designs and Callisto is a linear surface mounted luminaire with an IK10 rating that is at home in semi-industrial applications as well recreational facilities, offering both wide and narrow optic distribution.

Other features include Luceco’s new two-tier wireless lighting control systems. Luceco Platform offers the ability to transform existing lighting installations, creating simple and efficient wireless communication systems for dimming, scene setting, presence and daylight control. The Luceco Elevate Wireless Lighting Controls provide a function rich system, including energy and emergency lighting reports and asset tracking, as well as the functions of Luceco Platform.

The Specification Guide has been carefully designed to provide lighting professionals with detailed information segregated into easy-to-use categories.

NEW NVC CATALOGUE NVC has had to bring forward production of its latest catalogue because of all the many important changes that the company has made over the past six months.

They include: • New extended seven-year warranty on all Contractor range products that applies from the date of installation as long as the products are appropriate for the intended use and professionally installed.

• Extended warranty covering the lithium batteries in Contractor emergency lighting products.

• The introduction of JUPITER, the new high performance, high-bay fitting which comes with energy saving programmable sensors and emergency variants with lithium batteries for improved performance and environmental credentials.

• Data and products that make NVC’s emergency self-test versions the must-fit solution to save money, time, worry and, ultimately, lives.

• ICEL endorsement on all its Contractor range dedicated emergency products.

NVC’s new catalogue is available to download. Or if you want an A4 or A5 printed copy, they’re available from distributors throughout the UK and Ireland, from your local account manager or by contacting NVC on 0121 457 6340 or sales@nvcuk.com.

NVC, nvcuk.com

VENT-AXIA WELCOMES PART F OF THE BUILDING REGULATIONS Vent-Axia has welcomed the publication of new Approved Document Part F of the Building Regulations, as a “vital step to improve indoor air quality”.

Published on 15 December 2021, Part F (Means of Ventilation) goes hand-in-hand with the new amended Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power), which is set to help the UK deliver net zero with a reduction of almost a third less carbon for new homes. However, as buildings become more air tight to improve efficiency it is essential to consider indoor air quality too to protect the wellbeing of inhabitants.

The new Part F therefore sets out “significant changes”, which will drive adoption of low carbon ventilation as an industry standard and improve the quality of the air we breathe in buildings.

A key addition to Part F is a new sub section ‘Installing Energy Efficiency Measures’, which relates to existing properties: “When carrying out energy efficiency measures to an existing dwelling, an assessment should determine what, if any, additional ventilation provision is needed, based on the estimated impact of the work.”

Vet-Axia, vent-axia.com

Luceco, luceco.com

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Company Showcase.indd 53

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February 2022 | 53

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COMPANY SHOWCASE

SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY

KNIGHTSBRIDGE’S TOWERS OF POWER BRING FASTCHARGE TO THE HOME AND OFFICE Knightsbridge has boosted its collection of pop-up and FASTCHARGE chargers with the introduction of innovative pop-up ‘towers of power’ that come in a choice of cap finishes and combine sockets with USB outlets.

Ideal for mounting in worktops, desks, communal workplace areas and home offices where a discreet power option is required, the units are ingress rated to IP54 when closed.

The towers comprise three 13A sockets – operated by an on/off backlit rocker switch – with in-built dual outlets that support both Type-A USB and Type-C charging compatible with QC3.0 (Quick Charge) and PD FASTCHARGE. Suitable for Android and Apple devices supporting QC2.0/QC3.0 and/or USB-PD; the ports charge 80% faster than a standard 5V DC 2A charger and can deliver up to 50% charge in under 30 minutes with compatible phones.

With compatible QC devices, the outlets deliver up to 12V at 1.5A, although only one port can activate FASTCHARGE at any one time, with the alternative port reverting to a maximum of 5V DC 1A.

HAMMOND INTRODUCES MORE VERSIONS OF ITS 1551 MINIATURE PLASTIC ENCLOSURE FAMILY The 1551 miniature plastic enclosure family from Hammond Electronics consists of 49 different sizes; in this latest extension to the range a further 10 variants have been introduced. In addition to the available size and configuration options, a choice of colours, flanged lids, keyring and USB C versions are also available. The 1551V ventilated sensor enclosure versions have now been extended with the addition of 45, 60 and 80mm diameter round versions, available with plain or vented covers. Also added to the 1551V range are unventilated cover versions of the 80 x 80, 60 x 60, 40 x 40mm and 80 x 40mm square and rectangular enclosures.

A key feature of the 1551V design is the snap-fit closure, which allows repeated opening and closing without tools and also maximises the internal space for PCBs by eliminating screw fixings to secure the cover to the base.

Hammond Electronics, hammondmfg.com

ML Accessories, mlaccessories.co.uk

SCOLMORE ADDS DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES TO ITS CLICK SMART+ RANGE

POWERLITE FITZGERALD SHOWCASES URBAN DISC ANTI-LIGATURE DOWNLIGHT Powerlite Fitzgerald has announced a fresh push on the Urban Disc anti-ligature downlight for applications where security is paramount.

Designed specifically for the mental health and custodial sectors, the Urban Disc is compatible with the company’s popular Fitz-I wireless technology and works to offer these sectors energy and monetary savings. Manufactured with the latest machinery and technology at its factories in Cornwall and West Yorkshire, the Urban Disc is able to achieve an IP65 & IK10+ rating using a 5mm polycarbonate diffuser.

Reflecting Powerlite Fitzgerald’s philosophy where the emphasis is on function, form and technical excellence, the Urban Disc has been manufactured with the needs of secure and mental health environments in mind. With comprehensive experience in public sector lighting design and installation, Powerlite Fitzgerald developed the product to meet the changing trends and new requirements of the evolving sector. The new Urban Disc will be offered in both 20w and 30w with two sizes of housing.

Powerlite Fitzgerald, powerlitefitz.co.uk

As the market for home automation products continues to show strong growth, consumers and building owners are turning to more decorative finishes for the smart products on display in their homes and properties. In anticipation of growing demand in this area, Scolmore has added a raft of new decorative sockets to its Click Smart+ range.

The comprehensive range of Click Smart+ products launched last year was created to simplify and streamline connected home products – lighting controls, smart sockets, security cameras and sensors. Now the company has added smart products in some of the company’s most popular ranges. One and two-gang smart sockets are available in the Definity screwless, Deco+ premium decorative and Deco decorative wiring accessories ranges.

A new Click Smart+ Fused Connection Unit has also been added to the Mode antiviral and antibacterial smart wiring accessories range, providing users with the ability to control appliances throughout the home – ovens, hobs, dishwashers, heaters etc. They can be turned on or off by voice control or smart device with the Click Smart+ app or with an automation.

Scolmore, scolmore.com

UNICRIMP ADDS EARTH ELECTRODE BOX TO EARTHING RODS RANGE Unicrimp’s latest new product development activity sees the addition of a 20mm conduit Earth Electrode Box to the company’s growing earth rods and components range.

The Earth Electrode Box protects the connection to an earth electrode. It is compatible with 20mm conduit, with provision for brass earth terminal and is suitable for countersunk installation, providing easy access for checking.

It is supplied with a warning printed lid screwed into the box.

Unicrimp first launched its range of earthing rods and component products in 2019 and continues to expand the range to offer installers a one-stop-shop facility for all their earthing component requirements.

Earth rods, or earth electrodes, are conductive metal poles buried directly into the ground and connected to the earth circuit of an electrical installation. If there is a fault, they provide a low resistance path that allows electricity to safely dissipate out into the ground.

All Unicrimp earthing products meet British, European and international standards and all components are manufactured from high quality materials.

Unicrimp, unicrimp.com

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WREXHAM MINERAL CABLES LEADS PLASTIC-FREE PRODUCT REVOLUTION Wrexham Mineral Cables produces what it describes as the only true ‘fire survival’ cable.

Offering the highest levels of fire performance, the company says it is also seeing an increased interest in the environmental benefits of its products.

In order to reduce plastic within the supply chain, Wrexham Mineral Cables believes that by focusing on the green credentials of products, plastic waste can be significantly reduced. For example, MICC cable is a non-ageing product, and does not use any plastics to aid fire performance. WMC’s bare MICC cable option consists of just two materials: copper and magnesium oxide.

Neither will burn, and both elements are inorganic and non-carcinogenic. This results in no added smoke or toxins in a fire situation – creating no harm towards the natural environment. The copper used in the cables is 100% recyclable.

By comparison, the majority of other cables on the market require plastics or polymers to protect the conductors. A standard SWA 4 core 4mm cable can contain around 270g of plastic per one metre length – the equivalent of 54 plastic bags being sent to landfill.

Wrexham Mineral Cables, wrexhammineralcables.com

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27/01/2022 12:20

BEING A SPARKY IS ALL ABOUT THE NUMBERS To do work that’s safe, reliable and compliant, you need a bit of a head for figures. Here are a couple for you: the new Generation II Lever Wire Connector handles both 32 AMP and 4mm. You can do more, more quickly, in even the most awkward of spaces. It all adds up.

idealind.com

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Why switch to NVC lighting?

Extensive range of LED lighting for indoor and outdoor applications High specification, high performance products offering excellent value 7-year warranty on all contractor products In-house, standards compliant, lighting design service In-house manufacturing facilities producing bespoke products Proactive support from specification to installation Lithium batteries as standard on all contractor emergency lighting products

Switching to NVC couldn't be easier

The 7 year switch All our NVC contractor products now carry a...

Our products are available through our distribution partners across the UK & Ireland Get your copy of our NEW catalogue Our product data is on Luckins

T: 0121 457 6340 E: sales@nvcuk.com E: technical@nvcuk.com W: www.nvcuk.com

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