ECN Skills Regulations, Legislation & Training 2023

Skills Regulations, Legislation & Training

A brand new series of CPD accredited, knowledge-packed, events exclusively for trade professionals.

See page 4 for details.

RO Installer -training from Kidde

Sign up to Kidde’s new FREE training sessions at a venue local to you!

Domestic Fire Detection Training Course

Standards and Regulations

Installation and Siting

Testing

Maintenance

...and much more!

UK(Reference to BS5839 Part 6)

Hello and welcome to ECN’s Skills –Regulation, Legislation & Training Supplement. Training in the electrical contracting industry is of paramount importance for various reasons. As in any field, staying up-to-date with the latest techniques, technologies, safety practices, legislation and regulations is crucial for success.

Training is an investment that benefits both individual electricians and the electrical contracting industry as a whole. It fosters a safer, more efficient, and competitive work environment, contributing to the growth and success of the industry.

In this supplement, you will hear from CEF and its new series of TechTalks which are coming in September. Learn which

topics will be discussed and what you can expect from the TechTalks on page 4.

NAPIT gives us a run down of the big changes that have been happening within NAPIT Training – read all about it on page 12.

Hager shares the details of its in-depth, flexible training sessions on page 10, and on page 8, CEDIA’s Matt Nimmons talks about the opportunities available to electricians and electrical contractors by transitioning to the professional home technology industry.

Finally, on page 14, learn more about the Training category at the ECN Awards and the two awards up for grabsTraining Provider/Initiative of the Year.

I hope you find this supplement informative – look out for our next supplement in the October issue!

Our next supplement will be published alongside the October issue and will focus on Lighting. To get involved, or for more information, please contact Kelly Byne at kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com.

The editor 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.

Published monthly by All Things Media Ltd., Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent

ME5 8UD. Tel: 01634 673163 Fax: 01634 673173

Overseas Subscription Rates: Europe £60.00; Rest of World £70.00 Copyright © 2023. All rights reserved. Printed by Micropress, Reydon Business Park Fountain Way, Reydon, Southwold,

EDITOR: CARLY WILLS

T: 01634 673163

E: carly@allthingsmedialtd.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: ISHA JAIN

T: 01634 673163

E: isha@allthingsmedialtd.com

GROUP ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER:

KELLY BYNE

T: 01634 673163

E: kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com

STUDIO: MARK WELLER

T: 01634 673163

E: mark@allthingsmedialtd.com

MANAGING DIRECTOR: DAVID KITCHENER

T: 01634 673163

E: david@allthingsmedialtd.com

ACCOUNTS

T: 01634 673163

E: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com

CEF LAUNCHES NEW TECHTALKS SERIES AND IT’S COMING SOON

CEF is launching a brand new series of TechTalks to a whopping 24 locations across the UK this autumn. TechTalks Series 3 will host unmissable events, designed to bring electrical professionals across the nation up to speed on the latest news and regulations. Here’s an early insight into what you can expect.

CEF TechTalks, in partnership with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), offer free, knowledge-packed, events exclusively for trade professionals and are designed to boost your knowledge and leave you buzzing with inspiration. Charge up your expertise at the series of technical seminars and enjoy mini trade shows that are bustling with exhibitors showcasing the latest products and innovations.

With the third series starting this September, there’s a brand new line-up of content and an all-new electrifying experience to help boost your knowledge.

What’s new in Series 3?

Series 3 of CEF TechTalks introduces new topics such as the electrification of heat, thermal imaging and safe isolation, plus how to work safely with DC systems.

CEF has also introduced an exclusive Renewables Q&A session at the end of each TechTalk, tailored to those looking to expand their business into the renewables market.

CEF will connect you with its CEF Renewables specialists and training providers who will guide you on what you can expect from the company to support you on your journey.

What is CEF Renewables?

CEF Renewables opens the door to thousands of renewable energy products for home or business, backed up by the company’s industry renowned expertise and customer service. CEF’s dedicated Renewables Team provides support, guidance, training and products to help you and your clients make the most of the UK’s road to net zero strategy.

At CEF TechTalks, you’ll have the opportunity to join Q&A sessions and put your questions to manufacturers, training providers and CEF’s renewables experts.

The company is also offering attendees the chance to book a 1:1 session with its renewables experts who can offer personalised advice on how to take your business to new heights in the renewables industry.

TECHTALKS SERIES 3 LOCATIONS

Jersey Radisson Blu, Jersey

Southampton Hilton at the Ageas Cricket Stadium

Woking Hilton Hotel

Bath Bath Racecourse

Cardiff Cardiff City Football Club

Manchester AJ Bell Stadium

Rotherham Asseal New York Stadium

Belfast Culloden Estate and Spa Hotel

Wrexham Bangor on Dee Racecourse

Stoke Stoke City Football Club

Coventry Coventry Building Society Arena

Watford Double Trees Elstree, Boreham

Cheltenham Cheltenham Racecourse

Wednesday 20 September

Tuesday 26 September 2023

Wednesday 27 September 2023

Tuesday 3 October 2023

Wednesday 4 October 2023

Wednesday 11 October 2023

Thursday 12 October 2023

Wednesday 25 October 2023

Tuesday 21 November 2023

Wednesday 22 November 2023

Wednesday 29 November 2023

WoodThursday 30 November 2023

Exeter Sandy Park Conference and Event Centre

Kent Kent Event Centre

Newmarket Newmarket Racecourse

Durham Durham Cricket Club

Preston Preston North End FC

Glasgow Crowne Plaza, Glasgow

Inverness Drumossie Hotel

Edinburgh Leonard Hotel Edinburgh

Isle of Man Comis Hotel and Golf Resort

Leeds Leeds United FC

Nottinghamshire Newark Showground

Is TechTalks Series 3 only for those interested in renewables?

Absolutely not! TechTalks are designed to be inclusive and engaging for everyone. While CEF will be diving deep into the world of renewables, the company says it hasn’t forgotten about the other important aspects of the industry.

A wide range of topics will be covered, including industry regulations, troubleshooting, safety and so much more. There truly is something for everyone, no matter where your area of expertise or interests sit.

What will be discussed in TechTalks Series 3?

Series 3 of TechTalks will cover a wide range of essential subjects, including thermal imaging, electrification of heat,

Wednesday 31 January 2024

Thursday 1 February 2024

Wednesday 7 February 2024

Thursday 8 February 2024

Wednesday 21 February 2024

Thursday 22 February 2024

Wednesday 28 February 2024

Thursday 29 February 2024

Friday 1 March 2024

Wednesday 6 March 2024

Wednesday 13 March 2024

Thursday 14 March 2024

safe isolation, working safely with DC in relation to PV and battery systems, RCDs, IET updates, EICR coding, and renewables.

What will be covered in the Electrification of Heat session?

The Electrification of Heat session will delve into the UK Government’s net zero plan, Powering up Britain.

Crucial aspects will be explored, including:

• Grid capacity

• Heat pump supply

• Space heating

• Local water heating systems

• Electric boiler installations

• Underfloor heating

• Infrared heating technology

• Switch fuse connection unit problems

What can I expect in the RCD workshop?

The RCD workshop will address various aspects, including DC, problems, types of devices (RCCB, RCBO, RCD), disconnection times, and testing procedures.

Why do we need to know about DC systems?

DC is going to be increasingly used to distribute power directly from solar or batteries. Many devices, such as lights, already use DC, so using DC direct from source will reduce unwanted losses.

What is the IET?

The IET, or Institution of Engineering and Technology, is responsible for setting the wiring regulation standards for electrical installations. Its national standard, BS 7671, is essential for ensuring electrical safety.

CEF partners with the IET to ensure that its updates are accurate and include the most up to date regulation details.

Will I get a certificate for attending?

Yes! All attendees will receive a CPD certificate, acknowledging their commitment to continuous professional development and enhancing their professional profile.

What can I expect at a TechTalk?

TechTalks offers a series of technical seminars lead by electrical experts Darren Staniforth and Dave Austin. Together, Darren and Dave dive deep into the latest regulations and trends in our industry, sharing insights, tips, and everything you need to know. Plus, there will be IET professionals on hand who can answer any questions you might have.

You’ll also get the chance to connect with over 20 of CEF’s suppliers, who will be showcasing their cutting-edge products and innovations at the mini trade exhibition.

Why should I attend?

Stay current – don’t be left in the dark when it comes to what’s happening in the electrical industry. At Tech Talks, you can plug into the latest news about electrical products, brands, and regulations.

Power up your development – by attending TechTalks you’ll earn a shiny CPD certificate, giving your professional profile an extra boost.

Get your burning questions answered – got a regulation question that keeps you up at night? Now’s your chance to get the answers.

Get hands-on with the latest tech – at TechTalks, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with the latest electrical gadgets and innovations.

Try before you buy – with free product demonstrations, you can test before you invest. Get the right products for you and your business by making informed decisions that spark joy.

Shockingly good deals – exclusive on-the-day deals await you at TechTalks. Discounted products, special offers – it’s like a lightning bolt of savings!

Connect with the electrical community – TechTalks aren’t just about learning, they’re also a chance to connect and catch up with your fellow sparkies and favourite CEF colleagues. Share stories, exchange tips and enjoy a networking opportunity that’ll leave you feeling fully charged.

Have fun – at TechTalks, CEF believes that you can have fun on the job. So come prepared to learn, laugh, and have a great time.

What do I get for attending?

• A CPD certificate

• A pack of six TechCards – handy reference to the Technical Seminar topics

• The chance to connect with over 20 supplier brands

• Free parking

• Free breakfast and refreshments

• It’s all free!

Where are TechTalks taking place?

Series 3 of TechTalks will be taking place in 24 locations across the UK, so there’s bound to be one happening near you.

How do I register to attend?

To secure your spot at CEF TechTalks, simply pop into your local CEF branch or visit cef.co.uk/tech-talks to register for free.

TALKING YOUR LANGUAGE

A brand new series of CPD accredited, knowledge-packed events exclusively for trade professionals.

Designed by electricians, for electricians are made to give everyday electricians helpful and practical info for their livelihood.

Recharge your electrical know-how with all new topics

Prepare your business for a greener future with our brand-new renewables stand

24 locations across the UK

MAKING THE TRANSITION FROM ELECTRICIAN TO SMART HOME INTEGRATOR

CEDIA is the industry association that can help electrical contractors successfully develop their careers, enabling them to take advantage of the rapid growth in consumer demand for professionally installed smart home technology, writes Matt Nimmons, Managing Director of CEDIA EMEA.

We are seeing more and more newcomers coming into the professional home technology industry, and, from an electrical contractor’s perspective, there are a core set of skills that are very natural to build upon.

Ben Pratt, owner of B Electrical and White Onyx Automation, is a CEDIA member who offers a great example of someone who has recognised the business opportunity and moved to address it. Here’s what he has to say:

“After starting my electrical career by working on low-end domestic jobs, I moved into the high-end residential market in 2016. It was here that I discovered smart home control systems, such as Lutron and Savant, and after

looking into them in more detail, I found a new love for engineering and that was how I found myself immersing myself in the smart home industry.

“Up until this point, I didn’t even know that this market existed. I had worked on a large Lutron project as the electrician and was frustrated that I had to stop at just putting the cables in, with someone else, another contractor from a CEDIA member company, coming in to do the rest of the job. I was quite overwhelmed by what I was seeing and inspired to find out more about it. Who was this contractor? And what did he have that I didn’t?

“Very quickly I realised that I had plenty to learn. Some of my skills were definitely transferrable – wiring and cabling, and my experience and training working with typical electrical services.

But I had to work on understanding other technologies, especially around audio and home cinema systems, data networks and the integration of all the sub-systems onto a single, unified control platform. If I could get a grip on all of that then it would allow me to take on a larger part of a project and build a home automation business.

“Having made that decision, I had to find a way in. It was a bit tough as there didn’t seem to be many easy paths. So, I started asking other integrators if I could lend a hand and it got to a point where I thought I’m going to have to throw myself into this, invest in myself and make a real go of it. Having the passion was definitely helpful in pushing me forward – it was something new and exciting.

“Once I’d found my feet, I was starting to find myself in the running for larger

projects where the audio-visual element was significant. The problem was that I was up against other integrators who had AV or automation actually in their company name. Being named B Electrical against someone who was obviously a specialist in the field was a barrier, so I decided to create a separate company name for this side of my business, called White Onyx Automation. This changed perceptions about my business. Now I was able to secure these larger jobs and had the added benefit of owning two different but related companies, meaning that I could do both the electrical work and the ‘AV’ and ‘automation’ side of the job.

“I joined CEDIA as a member because I knew that if I wanted to be taken seriously in the industry it was important to be a member of the association. Also, I saw the benefits that it offers integrators, such as industry training, events, and other valuable resources. CEDIA produces a range of white papers, in particular, that have really helped me find my feet in this market and develop my skills further. They have such a large portfolio available to the industry that I would encourage any electrical contractor to take advantage of these resources. They are fantastic. CEDIA has genuinely helped me fill in so many gaps which I’m not sure I could have done otherwise.

“And there’s always more to learn. My next step with CEDIA is to attend its Outreach Instructor course in September. This training will allow me to build relationships with architects and interior designers because it will qualify me to deliver CEDIA Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses to these audiences.”

Ben’s journey is one that many electrical contractors would be interested in following. CEDIA is here to provide not just the in-person and online education and resources to support such a move, but it can also help answer your questions, provide guidance and connect you with a great community of industry professionals and suppliers.

The two education packages that are fundamental to any contractor who is looking to start their journey in the

smart home industry are Smart Home Technician Essentials and Smart Home Technician Further Skills.

The five-day Smart Home Technician Essentials pathway offers a solid foundation for electricians interested in starting their careers in the industry or supporting junior technicians in their journey towards CEDIA certification. The package covers essential topics such as audio and video fundamentals, best practice in structured cabling and smart home subsystems, as well as design and installation of AV racks. The last day of the programme also covers the UK’s regulations of electrical safety.

The five-day Smart Home Technician Further Skills package is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of individuals who already have some experience in the field or who have completed the Smart Home Technician Essentials package. This more advanced training equips learners with the expertise to handle more complex smart home systems. The package covers topics such as wired and wireless networking, lighting systems and control, fundamentals of home cinema design, as well as the principles of project and business processes.

There has never been a better time for electrical contractors to make the transition to the professional home technology industry.

CEDIA, cedia.net

There has never been a better time for electrical contractors to make the transition to the professional home technology industry

LEARNING WITH HAGER

Hager UK shares the details of its in-depth, flexible training sessions which are offered as part of the company’s dedication to educating the next generation of electricians while supporting current contractors to remain at the top of their game.

Learning is a fundamental part of any profession, especially so in the electrical sector, with ever-evolving building regulations, new legislation released regularly and customer requirements changing rapidly.

Installers, and the companies they work for, have to be proactive with their learning to ensure they remain at the very top of their game, whilst ensuring that their work remains compliant, safe and of the highest standard. It’s not only a question of safety, but also one of reputation across the industry and among commercial and residential consumers.

For the team at Hager UK, supporting that essential learning process is a core aspect of its work. It is eager to continue supporting the contractor community by sharing industry news, the latest innovations and, of course, product knowledge too.

“Electricians never stop learning. Many within the industry regularly take part in courses to learn or refresh their knowledge about the latest wiring regulations or sector solutions. With an influx of innovative products hitting the market in recent times – including EV chargers and renewable energy installations – obtaining the relevant certifications is a necessary requirement,” says Hager UK.

Hager UK understands that balancing working and learning can prove challenging

“At Hager UK, we’re committed to excellence, safety, and efficiency. Our customers know they can expect these standards from us and by using our products they can pride themselves on them too. But this doesn’t come without hard work and devotion to remaining up-to-date with the latest legislation and industry information. As part of our

dedication to assisting our customers to do business better, we’re proud to offer bespoke learning courses to build upon existing knowledge and help installers discover solutions to the most important questions or problems in the industry.

“While further and regular education is vital to provide the best service and solutions for customers, we understand that balancing working and learning can prove challenging. Finding sufficient time to master courses and review resources is often tricky. That’s why we offer both online and in-person learning options, enabling our community of contractors to learn at a time and location which suits them.

“Our catalogue of online interactive courses can be accessed anytime and from anywhere, giving a level of flexibility which works no matter what the contractor’s schedule or preferred method of learning. Plus, they vary in length –from taking just minutes to complete to much more in-depth sessions, meaning there’s an opportunity to learn no matter how long the gap in your diary is.

“If in-person training is more your style, we regularly host training days at our dedicated facility in Shropshire – its central location means they attract contractors from across the country. We also have a team of experts who travel to deliver bespoke sessions.

“With an array of topics to choose from, you can delve into in-depth technical and regulation training, insight on our product solutions, or bitesize updates to keep you

up-to-date with recent changes. Carefully curated by our technical team, members have access to sessions on everything from surge protection and AFDDs to EV charging. Plus, we’ve partnered with NAPIT to offer an 18th Edition Amendment 2 training course and a Level 3 Award in Initial Verification and Periodic Inspection & Testing of Electrical Installations.” Hager UK is also launching a variety of brand new courses, including:

• Technical training – which covers installations of specific devices and the relevant regulations

• 15-minute product training – sharing product codes and information about Hager’s popular solutions

• Apprentice hub – aimed at new starters and apprentices to ensure they’re correctly installing devices – but also a great part of the online platform for those looking for refresher training

Hager UK concludes, “The training sessions have proved incredibly popular and useful amongst Hager’s community of installers and contractors. Damien Heath, Sales Representative at Heath Electrical shared his feedback after attending the 18th Edition training course and says, ‘the course is designed to help you feel confident when applying the 18th Edition regulations, and I have to say that I learned a wealth of new information throughout.’”

Hager UK, learn.hager.com

If only there were a one-stop shop for all my training needs…

The Hager Ready app gives you access to training for your development as a professional electrician

Game Changer!

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

As safety standards across the industry are improving and the demand for training on newer renewable technologies reaches an all-time high, NAPIT Training is working harder than ever to improve and expand its industry leading training offering.

There have been several big changes recently within NAPIT Training, and the biggest by far is the opening of a brand-new centre at Potter’s Bar, which is now up and running and offering a wide range of training and assessment courses! This centre is ideally located on the outskirts of North London and is fully equipped with training rigs ready to upskill and train the tradespeople in the area.

There have also been big changes to the Training Centre at NAPIT HQ in Mansfield, which now hosts a new dedicated Heating and Plumbing area. The demand for heat pump training has increased tenfold, thanks to a heavy spotlight and big government focus on heat pumps and the drive in demand for them to be installed in homes, to help the UK on its journey to reaching net zero.

Other notable changes include a re-homing of the Bristol training centre to a larger, more accessible site. And, lastly, NAPIT is celebrating a partnership with Hager to offer training at its site in Telford – again broadening the accessibility of training courses delivered by the expert NAPIT Training team.

Brett Forster, NAPIT Head of Training, comments, “We’re very proud of the work put in to make these changes happen, and our experienced tutors receive incredible feedback time and time again. We’re committed to investing in our services to provide the best training experience we can.”

The investment mentioned is due to NAPIT Group’s close working relationship with several manufacturers to allow students on the courses to have access to the latest technologies as part of their learning. An example of the leading brands used throughout all its centres are Enphase, Trianco, Rolec, VTAC and Alpha, plus many more.

Brett continues, “We want to ensure our training candidates have access to the very best technologies in the industry.”

And, as if that wasn’t keeping them busy enough, as part of the ongoing work with the NAPIT Foundation, free membership for students and colleges is available, the Training team also build and supply bespoke training rigs to colleges up and down the country. Helping to support lecturers in ensuring the students – the future generation of electricians – are knowledgeable and equipped in the technologies available.

To find out more about NAPIT Training, and to see what courses are available, please visit the NAPIT website or call 0330 9000 700.

NAPIT, napit.org.uk

LET’S CELEBRATE THE ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS OF THE FUTURE

The ECN awards are only three months away, which means it’s time to get your entries in to make sure that the best Training Provider/Initiative and Apprentice of the Year receive the recognition they deserve.

Training and apprenticeships are integral to the electrical contracting industry’s success, fostering a skilled workforce, ensuring safety and quality work, and supporting continuous improvement in an ever-changing field.

The ECN Awards recognise this, which is why we have created two awards in the training category – Training Provider/Initiative of the Year and Apprentice of the Year.

Read on to find out what the judges will be looking for…

Training Provider/Initiative of the Year

Availability of training: How accessible is your training? Is it available in more than one location in the UK, or does it offer a mix of online and classroom-based training? Is there anything you do to make training available to the widest possible number of people?

Return on investment: Whether your training is free to attend or paid for, what do those investing their time get from attending? Does it provide invaluable skills, or do they get points towards a professional qualification?

Breadth of training: Does your training offer something for everyone? Whether you’re a beginner or expert, is there something that everyone could get out of your training? Do you offer multiple different modules allowing attendees to gain more than just one skill?

Apprentice of the Year

Dedication: Can you demonstrate your dedication to your apprenticeship and to your industry? Have you gone above and beyond to succeed?

Aspirations: What are your long-term business goals? How do you intend to achieve these goals? What impact would you like to make on the industry?

Why should you win? The judges will be looking for you to explain why you think you should win this award in your own words.

Reasons to enter

• A win can give a seal of approval to your activities and is a sign of quality for potential customers, so can form part of your sales pitch.

• It can also enhance business competitiveness – an award win can help cement your reputation in the industry and raise your profile head and shoulders above your competitors.

• Reward and motivate your team –entering awards sends a message to your team that their achievements are worth shouting about and that their hard work is worthwhile.

• Networking opportunities – as well as making new contacts on the night, winning an award can also give you a reason to communicate with your existing client database and let them know about your success.

• An award win isn’t just a popularity contest, it’s judged by an independent expert panel and therefore gives recognition for the great work that you do from the industry that you’re in.

Please enter as soon as you can so you don’t miss out on the chance to win and don’t forget that it’s FREE to enter! The deadline for entries is 15 September 2023. To enter, please visit electricalcontractingnews.com/ awards-entries.

For general enquiries please contact Carly Wills at carly@allthingsmedialtd.com and for sponsorship enquiries please contact Kelly Byne at kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com.

What better accolade could there be than to win one of the first ever ECN Awards?! ECN Awards, electricalcontractingnews.com/awards

With the ECN Awards only three months away, it’s time to get your entries prepared! There are 2 awards up for grabs in the TRAINING category – if your company has offered outstanding electrical training between 1 January 2022 and 31 August 2023, or if you know someone who deserves to win the Apprentice of the Year Award, then please ENTER NOW!

100kA

Single