Professional Electrician April 2022 by Hamerville Media Group

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TO EE FR DE RA ET TH

PROFESSIONAL

ELECTRICIAN THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR THE ELECTRICAL TRADE

& INSTALLER

APRIL 2022

AMENDMENT 2 IS HERE

A FIRST LOOK AT SOME OF THE KEY CHANGES TO THE 18TH EDITION WIRING REGULATIONS

STRENGTHEN THE FORTRESS DISCOVERING BG ELECTRICAL’S REDESIGNED CIRCUIT PROTECTION OFFERING

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: TECHNICAL ADVICE ● PRODUCT REVIEWS ● CAUGHT ON CAMERA ● PRIZE DRAWS AND MORE...

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Total Average Net Distribution: 76,995 Certification period: 1 January 2021 - 31 December 2021

April 2022 Volume 38 No.4

Regulars 5 VIEWPOINT

7 NEWS 16 THE DRIVE TO NET ZERO 20 CODEBREAKERS 27 ASK OVIA 32 MADE 2 MEASURE 39 THE TRAINING GROUND 64 DR ZZEUS 82 CAPTAIN C-TEC 84 PRODUCTS IN PRACTICE 96 CAUGHT ON CAMERA

News & Views 17

A look at the current energy crisis and the BEIS Select Committee report on the Decarbonisation of Heat in UK Homes

Technical & Training 23 Why it is vital to plan, test and isolate when working on electrical installations 26 Considering how voltage, current and power are affected by parallel connected loads 29 How will Amendment 2 affect requirements for surge protection? 34 Exploring the key changes introduced by Amendment 2 and what these will mean 37 The impact that harmonic currents can have on earth leakage Why it is vital to plan, test and isolate

How Clydebank Housing has benefitted from its partnership with Aico

Products & Business Solutions 41 Looking at the advantages of ToughBuilt’s ClipTech system 42 Exploring the key changes to the redesigned BG Fortress circuit protection 45 Five top tips for reducing energy costs and introducing sustainable lighting concepts on your next project 48 Electrical faults: what advantages does using a thermal camera bring? 50 Prefect Controls celebrates a special milestone anniversary 53 Norman Bradshaw reviews the Air wireless controller from Hamilton Litestat 86 Rounding-up the latest products, tools and equipment to help you in your work

Fire & Security 57 What’s driving growth in the smart home market sector?

60 Why Aico’s partnership with Clydebank Housing has been a resounding success

63 Learning more about the FESS Experienced Worker Assessment 66 Why electricians can further professionalise their security installation services through the use of third-party certification 68 How installers can help landlords to proactively achieve compliance with new smoke and carbon monoxide alarm regulations 71

What’s involved with C-TEC’s new BS 5839-1 fire detection and fire alarm system compliance courses?

72 Catching up on the latest developments with the Vex Box fire safety solution 75 How Linian’s clips have gone from concept to reality 79 Reece Hardy gets his hands on the latest CCTV kit from ESP 80 Is a trip to IFSEC on your agenda this year?

Prize Draws 12 WIN! 5 x Triton T80 Pro Fit showers are up for grabs

PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN April 2022 3

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Meet the team Editor RICHARD BOWLER email: pe@hamerville.co.uk Digital Manager REBECCA MCGEOCH email: rmcgeoch@hamerville.co.uk Digital Assistant ADAM ROBERTS email: aroberts@hamerville.co.uk Advertisement Manager ANTHONY SCOTT email: ascott@hamerville.co.uk Assistant Advertisement Manager IAN TURNER email: ianturner@hamerville.co.uk Design ADEEL QADRI Production Assistant KERRI SMITH Group Production Manager CAROL PADGETT Distribution Manager KARL CLARK Managing Editor TERRY SMITH Printed by: WALSTEAD PETERBOROUGH Published by: HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF Tel: 01923 237799 Fax: 01923 246901 Email: pe@hamerville.co.uk PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN is the business journal for the electrical contracting industry. It is available to the trade at leading electrical wholesalers throughout the UK. © 2022

Subscriptions to PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN are available. Please contact us for rates. Image References (Adobe Stock): Pg 17 Bumpy road © THC Creative Pg 18 Heat pumps © APC-Prod Pg 23 Safe isolation © Saelim Pg 24 Testing circuit © Kunakorm Pg 29 Lightning strike © Sergey Nivens Pg 66 Security camera © Rangizz Pg 67 Security guard © New Africa Pg 75 Big idea © Paradee

pe@hamerville.co.uk

Professional Electrician, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF

Editor’s Viewpoint

The deck is loaded in House of Cards Reports of yet another new Minister for Housing, the Right Honourable Stuart Andrew, were met with the now customary messages of cordial bon homme by those with more than a passing interest in what they hope he can deliver during the tenure of what, on the surface at least, appears to be a much coveted position. And certainly no one would dispute the massive and important challenges already piled high in his in tray with the housing sector at the very forefront of economic recovery from the pandemic and the much-heralded UK ‘Levelling Up’ white paper. Perhaps, as Mr Andrew settles into his new role, he might like to begin firstly by explaining exactly how he is going to make a noticeably better fist of it than the previous incumbents? Because, let’s be honest, there have been bigger and better men than him called upon to put on the obligatory hard hat and get down and dirty in the trenches to lay the foundations of a new glorious era of housebuilding. In fact, a bit of digging around reveals that Mr Andrew is – mind bogglingly – the eleventh Housing Minister in just twelve years and, quite frankly, our country deserves much better. As a nation which hold bricks and mortar dearer than most, to be treated with such apparent ambivalence to the cause is, quite frankly, embarrassing at best, and a national scandal at worst. It’s not the unfortunate Mr Andrew’s fault, of course. He is just part of the machinery which is doomed to failure before it even begins. You have to question how anyone in such a position can reasonably expect to achieve anything of significance in a job which history tells us will last an average of just twelve months. We hear so much these days about the importance of sending out the right message. There are many channels to do so now and there is no hiding place for the foolish and

unwary. The hard evidence here suggests that despite government protestations, housing is not as high up on the agenda as it would like us all to believe. Mr Andrew, like his already forgotten predecessors, will breeze in no doubt, shake a few heads together, oil a few wheels here and there and tweak a bit of legislation, all at vast expense, before disappearing into the sunset. And the whole ridiculous charade will start all over again. It’s not hard to see that Mr Andrew will have his work cut out from the outset with the unenviable challenge of reworking controversial plans to shake up the planning system to enable thousands of new homes to be built a year. In fact, housing delivery targets set in January showed nearly a third of local councils had failed to build enough homes, with many of these authorities in areas with large swathes of Green Belt. Indeed, he is about to discover that when it comes to housing, the deck is heavily loaded and however many times you shuffle the pack, you always end up with the same house of cards! Derek Thompson It is with great sadness that PE has to report the death of Derek Thompson. Derek, who served as CEO for SparkSafe LtP, was a constant champion for change and improvement in the electrical sector and acted as a mentor and friend to many industry professionals. A lovely man, Derek would be the first to remind this humble Editor of the key role that trade publications play in providing a voice to the otherwise unheard whenever I had the privilege to meet him. He will be greatly missed. Our best wishes and condolences go out to Derek’s family, friends and colleagues. Have a good month and enjoy the issue.

Richard B owler PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN April 2022 5

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news @proelectrician

For the latest electrical news visit www.professional-electrician.com

professionalelectrician

pe@hamerville.co.uk

Professional Electrician, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF

TESP reports surge in apprenticeships Electrotechnical apprenticeships for 2021/2022 have got off to a positive start with nearly 4,000 new apprentices recruited across England in the ﬁrst three months of the academic year, The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) has reported. Figures from The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education show that the intake of electrical apprentices remained strong throughout the coronavirus pandemic, demonstrating the value employers place on apprenticeships as the preferred route for training. Currently there are around 28,000 apprentices in training in England, with nearly 17,000 of these under the age of 19. Over 80% of these apprentices are employed by non-levy paying companies, highlighting the strong industry tradition of apprentice recruitment amongst small employers. For those who cannot get an apprenticeship and don’t have a Level 3 qualification, the government’s ‘Lifetime Skills Guarantee’ is currently funding the industry Level 3 Technical Diploma or, for those with work experience, the Level 3 NVQ which includes AM2. Both qualifications form part of TESP’s industry approved training routes to becoming fully qualified. Since the launch of the Lifetime Skills Guarantee, hundreds of adults have taken advantage of the funding for industry recognised electrical training and

Schneider releases AMD 2 podcast series To prepare for the newly bound brown Wiring Regulations (Amendment 2 to BS 7671:2018), Schneider Electric has recorded a number of podcasts on the potential key changes as well as commentary on how the changes might affect electricians. Featuring Mike Page from Residual Current and experts from Schneider Electric’s standards and product teams, the five episodes each focus on one topic area to really delve into what can be expected.

benefitted from upskilling. From this month, any adult in England who is earning under £18,525 annually, or is unemployed, can also access one of these free qualifications – even if they already have a Level 3 qualification or higher. The popularity of electrical apprenticeships and the Level 3 courses are also reflected in a growing number of people accessing the Electrical Careers website for information and guidance. From 2020 to 2021 the site not only doubled its number of visitors, but also received triple the amount of page views on the previous year. GET MORE DETAILS ON THE LIFETIME SKILLS GUARANTEE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF001

BS 7671:2018 Amendment 2 podcast series We sat down with Mike Page of Residual Current to discuss the upcoming changes to the Wiring Regulations. Check out the episodes on: • AFDDs • SPDs • RCDs • Prosumers • Protected escape routes

Listen to The Electrician Podcast now:

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF002

Girls allowed as apprenticeship training programme launches Banham Academy has partnered with the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) to launch an apprenticeship training programme for women to encourage them to embark on careers within the ﬁre and security sectors. The free-to-attend training programme, for women aged 16 and over, will take place from June 13th - 17th and will be held at Banham Academy in Earlsfield, South West London. The facility was recently awarded an Ofsted ‘Good’ provider with ‘Outstanding’ learner behaviour and attitude. The training will provide attendees with an understanding of the functions of

fire, CCTV, intruder alarms, access control systems, and the role of the systems technician. By the end of the one-week course, trainees will have learnt how to take over a system, diagnose and rectify faults. Course participants will also receive a daily lunch allowance, travel expenses as well as a certificate of completion. On the final day of the complimentary apprenticeship training programme, Banham Academy will bring trainees together with a range of security and fire safety companies who are looking to recruit promising female

technicians for apprenticeships, and ideally, a permanent job at the end of it. GET MORE DETAILS AND SIGN UP AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF003 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN April 2022 7

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news @proelectrician

For the latest electrical news visit www.professional-electrician.com

professionalelectrician

pe@hamerville.co.uk

Professional Electrician, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF

SELECT and Aico launch Alarm Ambassadors campaign As new heat and smoke alarm regulations come into effect, campaigning trade association SELECT has launched a goodwill initiative that will see its members install free domestic alarm systems for some of Scotland’s most vulnerable people. Sponsored by Aico, the Alarm Ambassadors campaign will see qualified electrical professionals fit heat, smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in selected homes across Scotland to ensure they comply with the new rules. The recipients will be vulnerable older and disabled people who have been identified by Care and Repair Scotland, the charity which helps householders improve or adapt a home which is no longer suitable. The first Alarm Ambassadors installation was carried out in Biggar, Lanarkshire by electrician Chris Liddell of SELECT Member business 2 Core Electrics. Also in attendance was SELECT President, Donald W Orr and Tony Boyle, Relationships Manager from Aico. Similar installations will now take place across Scotland, with electricians from SELECT member firms installing tamper-proof long-life lithium battery Aico alarms that are sealed, wireless and interlinked in line with the regulations. A completion certificate will also be issued once the work has been completed.

SELECT has produced a range of guidance about the new standard on a dedicated section of its website, including downloadable guides, technical manuals and an easy-to-follow animation video. ACCESS THE GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS AND GUIDES AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF004

NAPIT EXPO introduces CPD Masterclass NAPIT has revamped the setup of its popular EXPO this year to host a BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 CPD Masterclass at seven locations, where attendees will also receive a copy of BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 The IET Wiring Regulations, included with their ticket. NAPIT EXPO events provide a one-stop-shop for informing contractors of updates to the regulations which allows members and the wider industry to be aware of these types of developments. The EXPO events will begin with CPD awareness seminars covering the major changes to all parts of BS 7671, including the new Part 8 for

prosumers electrical installations. The sessions will be followed by a Q&A with JPEL committee technical experts Frank Bertie, Paul Chaffers, and Richard Townsend. The events will also host an exhibition with some of the industry’s best tool and services manufacturers, including Megger, Hager, SPD, Chint, Garo, Aico, Schneider Electric, Luceco, and Cudis. On the day, participants will have the opportunity to review and purchase the new publications and certiﬁcates as well as access additional training with NAPIT to ensure their business is future-proof for the new regulations.

GET MORE DETAILS OR BOOK YOUR TICKET AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF005

Get connected and win with Wago Wago has introduced a brand new competition where entrants can win amazing prizes in exchange for their product purchases. Each entry will entitle the individual to an entry into the particular draw number. The entrant will also automatically be entered into all other subsequent draws thereafter in the promotion period. It is simple to participate: BUY: Any boxed product from Wago’s 221 or 2773 ranges. All eligible products feature a highly visible Peel & Reveal label on the front of the box. SCAN: Peel the label carefully to reveal the QR code and entry code. Scan the QR code or use the web address provided. ENTER: Use the link at the bottom of the web page to enter your

8 April 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

entry and personal details into Wago’s online entry system. There are nine prize draws in total, with prizes worth over £55,000, including a fully expensed electric van. FIND OUT HOW TO ENTER AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF006

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news

For the latest electrical news visit www.professional-electrician.com

Hager factory celebrates 30 years with major investment Hager is celebrating 30 years of manufacturing at its UK factory with a series of significant investments to improve production at the site and facilitate further growth. With its UK manufacturing facility and head office located in Telford, Shropshire, Hager employs more than 170 people. The business’ latest investment has seen it install a state-of-the-art combination punch/ﬁbre laser machine – Hager’s third investment in three years totalling more than £1.8million. The Amada EML2515-AJ combination punch/laser machine and RMP-3015 automation model uses a ﬁbre optic laser to cut metal sheets at high-speed, with an automatic tool cleaner and other features to deliver continuous operation. Since its installation earlier this year, the Amada EML2515-AJ combination punch/laser machine has already

delivered signiﬁcant improvements to the productivity and adaptability of Hager’s manufacturing processes, reducing processing times, together with better utilisation of materials used, which has helped reduce the overall running costs of the machine. Alongside its investment at the site, to help reduce its carbon footprint and as part of its sustainability objectives, Hager recently switched to a renewable energy supply. The move will include switching to 100% renewable electricity and gas. In

addition, the company has also installed a number of electric vehicle charging points on-site to support employees in switching to electric vehicles. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF007

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pe@hamerville.co.uk

Professional Electrician, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF

Shine a spotlight on your safety innovation with ESF Do you have an innovative electrical project or product which improves (or seeks to improve) consumer safety, that you want to bring to a wide professional audience? Electrical Safety First’s Safety Innovation Award puts the spotlight on those individuals and businesses who put safety at the heart of their work, while incorporating sustainability and innovation. The Charity is inviting applications from businesses, community groups, and individuals, who have developed (or are developing) an innovative product – or a project – that can enhance consumer safety. Currently in its sixth year, the award is now open, with the deadline for submissions closing on 31st August. The winner will be announced at Electrical Safety First’s annual product safety conference, where they will have a

platform to discuss their innovation with the audience. They will also be offered ongoing support via media coverage, tailored newsletters and, where applicable, a half day of coaching from Electrical Safety First’s Technical Team – explaining everything you need to know to deliver your idea or get your product to market. All short-listed applicants will also be offered a space in the conference networking area, where they can network and give demonstrations of their work. Electrical Safety First’s annual conference, which takes place each November, is attended by over 200

delegates from throughout the electro-technical industry and beyond. This year, the event will be held at Church House, Westminster, on 23rd November. FIND OUT HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF008

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PRIZE DRAW

W IN

WIN A TRITON T80 PRO FIT SHOWER! We’ve got five of these brilliant electric showers to be bagged.

ith the UK’s 2050 net-zero carbon target now part of legislation, those in construction and installation need to be conscious that the products they install will help homeowners achieve the carbon-neutral standard. Paired with consumers’ growing demand to both reduce their carbon footprint and save money on utility bills, the overall demand for energy-efficient shower solutions is on the rise. In its Greener UK Showers Report, Triton has found that 48,000 litres of water can be saved annually by simply switching to an electric shower, reducing a home’s carbon footprint by 0.31 tonnes. Instantly heating water on demand, electric models avoid unnecessarily warming water that isn’t required, offering notable water and energy savings without compromising on performance. Go green, go electric The Triton T80 Pro Fit is a versatile electric shower that is perfect for new

12 April 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

installations, as well as retrofit applications replacing less efficient units. With an energy rating of A and bearing the BMA Unified water label – recognising it as a water-efficient product – the model is an ideal option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Created with ease of installation in mind, the T80 Pro Fit was designed based on feedback from installers and features eight water and eight electric connection points, simplifying the retrofitting process. It also comes with a dual water inlet for convenient left or right pipe connection, as well as Triton’s unique Swing-Fit terminal block. The result is a powerful shower solution capable of replacing practically any existing electric shower regardless of its brand or model. The shower features Triton’s Dura-Flow technology, and the easy-to-clean

ﬁve-spray pattern showerhead with removable face plate helps eliminate the build-up of limescale for a longer lasting shower.

HOW TO ENTER TO ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW TO WIN ONE OF FIVE TRITON T80 PRO FIT SHOWERS SIMPLY FILL OUT THE CONTACT FORM AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF009 Deadline for entries: 10/05/2022. Usual T&Cs apply.

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THE ROAD TO NET ZERO By Tom Gillam, Electrician Programme Manager at Schneider Electric

Meeting Net Zero homes regulations with confidence

ouseholds have both a direct and indirect impact on the environment. A house takes up physical real estate; it produces heat, noise and – in today’s digital age – a low level of electromagnetic interference from a bevy of connected devices. Its occupants will accumulate resources and produce real physical waste over time, including food packaging and discarded appliances. And all the energy that houses consume is still only partially derived from clean renewable power. Indeed, buildings are responsible for approximately 40% of EU energy consumption and 36% of greenhouse gas emissions. We are no less culpable for these emissions just because they are largely invisible and the major impacts happen outside of our purview. To keep us focused on making our homes smart and carbon neutral over time, regulations, policies, incentives and standards are there to guide us but also to mitigate the impact of household consumption on the environment. Regulations map out a Net Zero homes future and promise better living Thanks to strong regulatory guidelines, smart and efficient Net Zero homes which play an active role in our energy systems are finally within reach. The government has indicated that all new homes will be required to be highly energy efficient and Net Zero carbon-ready by 2025. At

the same time, green campaigners have called for a new UK National Retrofit Strategy to make sure existing housing stock can decarbonise at pace. The Net Zero home regulatory standards in place have human-centric goals while seeking to protect the planet. The good news is that they are all achievable thanks to advanced home automation and control solutions. A new sustainable approach to house building Home builders have a responsibility for sustainability, but they have incentives as well. Homeowners across England had until the end of March to have energy efficiency upgrades to their homes completed through the Green Homes Grant Voucher Scheme, helping up to 600,000 households save up to £600 on their energy bills. The scheme funds up to two thirds of the cost of green home improvements up to £5,000, or 100% of the cost for homeowners on low incomes, up to £10,000. Measures covered include insulation of walls, floors and roofs, double or triple glazing when replacing single glazing, and low-carbon heating like heat pumps. We must make our homes more energy efficient. The will to change is there, as are the increasing number of incentives available to support them. What’s more, the technological solutions needed to create the next generation of Net Zero homes already exist. All that is needed is for policymakers, builders and technology providers to guide the way.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SCHNEIDER’S DRIVE TO NET ZERO AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF010

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COMMENT

NAPIT’s Chief Operating Officer, David Cowburn, responds to the current energy crisis and the BEIS Select Committee report on the Decarbonisation of Heat in UK Homes.

“THE JOURNEY WILL HAVE MANY BUMPS IN THE ROAD”

he direction of travel set out by the government is clear, and there were always going to be challenges to face when committing to overhauling the way all homes are heated. The latest reports from the BEIS Select Committee on the Decarbonisation of Heat in UK Homes and new data from the Social Market Foundation outline the bumps in the road that need to be flattened to deliver the ambitious targets set by the government.

Urgent need for change A recent BEIS select committee report emphasised the urgent need for further policy change to successfully decarbonise heat in UK homes, following the proposals outlined in the government's Heat and Buildings Strategy and Net Zero Strategy. Combine this report with the recent energy ‘crisis’, the impact of growing political pressure from the public and wider industry

regarding the rising cost of heating UK homes, and the current lack of consumer demand for seemingly expensive low-carbon heat pumps and it is clear to see that the current government need to make a drastic change to meet the long-term goal of decarbonising heat in homes. Heat pump installers – a tall task According to data from the Social Market Foundation, there are currently 147,800 plumbing, heating, and ventilation engineers in the UK, with 130,000 of these being Gas Safe registered. These statistics alone demonstrate the immense task of reskilling the workforce to install heat pumps. Furthermore, the report noted that while surveyed installers are generally supportive of phasing out fossil-fuel heating, they are wary of spending time reskilling and training because consumer demand for heat pump installations is currently low. What is often neglected is that many properties will need their electricity supply

arrangements upgrading in order to accommodate heat pump technology, and all properties will need a suitably qualified contractor to engage with the electricity Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to obtain appropriate permissions and register the installation. Heap pump installers will need either to directly employ resource for this or use registered electrical contractors, in an area already anticipating a sharp increase in demand for their services due to the expansion of the UK’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Consumer demand is necessary to drive demand for heat pumps and to stimulate installers to retrain to meet the government’s target of installing 600,000 heat pumps per year by 2028. We responded to the resulting government consultation concerning the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which is set to replace the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive in April and

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COMMENT

will provide grants worth between £5,000 - £6,000 to homeowners for the installation of a heat pump or biomass boiler. However, with the average price of an air source heat pump estimated to be £6,000 - £8,000 and up to £18,000 for a ground source heat pump, the government’s current funding is unlikely to increase consumer demand sufficiently to incentivise installers to retrain or meet the installation targets necessary. For instance, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is only set to support the installation of around 30,000 low carbon heating technologies each year, for three years. In our response to the consultation, we urged the government to make the process as simple and straightforward as possible for installers to submit claims, as the scheme will be installer led. Access to grants and advising customers We need installers to feel as comfortable and confident as possible in accessing grants and working with customers. We will continue to represent our members through such consultation responses and will continue to provide vital information and updates to our installers as the policy progresses. Similarly, even with the assistance of a

18 April 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

grant, low-income homeowners may struggle to install a heat pump at all. Charity bosses and poverty campaigners such as AgeUK and Save the Children have called for urgent support to support the installation of heat pumps for people on lower incomes. Furthermore, the current method for calculating the Energy Performance Certiﬁcate (EPC) of properties is based on energy consumption. There are fears that this may lead to the energy performance of a property receiving a lower rating following the installation of a low carbon technology, which could de-value homes. This is especially pertinent given the recent government consultations on ‘Improving home energy performance through lenders’ and ‘Improving the energy performance of privately rented homes’ both of which have restrictions imposed based on EPC ratings. NAPIT understands the government is considering this challenge and ways to prevent EPCs from being a barrier to heat pump installations. However, we recognise that more can be done to assist low-income households, such as more substantial long-term grants and energy assistance. As an accredited Microgeneration Certiﬁcation Scheme provider, we are preparing to deliver low-carbon heat

training across our three NAPIT Training centres and we continue to serve on numerous government and industry committees to support the ambition in this important area. Support for the recommendations We are supportive of the Select Committee's recommendations for the government to introduce a low-carbon heating training programme, a national consumer awareness campaign and a heat technology road map by September this year, and call on the government to act now to give conﬁdence and certainty to the sector. Although the government's detailed long-term strategies provide a much needed and welcome overview, they do not provide enough detail or milestones to monitor progress effectively. While the future remains uncertain, it is clear the government is invested and is investing in decarbonising homes with heat pumps at the forefront of this approach. Whilst there is still a way to go, we will continue to support the industry through our representation on industry committees and our training and certiﬁcation. We’ll also be playing our part in helping the government meet its targets.

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THE

CODEBREAKERS ERIC WILLIAMS: I WAS ASKED BY A CUSTOMER TO REPLACE A BROKEN SOCKET THAT WASN’T WORKING AND TRACED THE WIRING BACK TO A CIRCUIT BREAKER IN AN OFF-PEAK CONSUMER UNIT. ON CHECKING THE SOCKET AFTER REPLACEMENT, WITH THE OFF PEAK NOW ENERGISED, IT WAS FOUND TO HAVE REVERSED POLARITY. ON OPENING THE OFF-PEAK CONSUMER UNIT (PICTURED) THAT WAS INSTALLED APPROX. 40 YEARS AGO (SUPPLYING FIVE STORAGE HEATERS), I FOUND THE METER TAILS REVERSED, ALSO EACH OF THE TAILS PASSING THROUGH A DIFFERENT OPENING IN THE METAL ENCLOSURE, NEITHER OF WHICH HAD GROMMETS! You can never assume that an older installation was installed, commissioned, and tested correctly. We often find that older installations can harbour some poor and dangerous practices. As we work through the findings, the lack of grommets is no more than perhaps a C3 unless there is mechanical and thermal damage. They’ve not been there for 40 years, without either, but that’s not to say every installation would be like this. Eddy currents only really start to take effect on equipment subjected to continual high current loads. In domestic single and polyphase installations, up to 100 A, it’s very unlikely there will be a problem. We generally see Eddy current overheating and damage on polyphase commercial and industrial installations, dealing with larger loads. In this case, the installation is only 60 A, and storage heaters are only energised for a cyclic period so, unless there are signs of thermal damage, no more than a C3. There also appear to be some cable entry points not being used,

which are likely to represent an IP issue. One certainly seems to have almost direct access to the bus bar. The area of concern here is the reversed polarity, which may well operate normally in a healthy circuit. Older storage heaters generally don’t have complex electronic controllers that require correct polarity and subsequently don’t have reversed polarity diode protection, which stops the equipment from operating and forces maintenance to be carried out. Also, as the polarity is reversed, we now have switches in neutral conductors, which isn’t allowed, and no individual circuit isolation, as the MCBs are only isolating the neutral. Not noticing the reversal, a maintenance engineer would think they have isolated a circuit to carry out some maintenance, only to find that the neutral circuit conductors are still live. The only way to isolate any of the installation storage heaters would be to isolate them at the CU main isolator.

The Observations, Regulation infringements and Codes applicable to this observation would be: No Gromets protecting tails entering CU, no Thermal or mechanical damage

522.8.1, 522.8.11

CU tails and MEC, do not enter a ferromagnetic metal CU enclosure through the same aperture. 60 A single-phase supply. No signs of thermal damage from Eddy currents

134.1.1, 525.5.1

CU IPXXB/IP2X rating compromised by disused cable entry points on the bottom of the CU, with access to Live parts

134.1.1, 416.2.1

CU IPXXD/IP4X rating compromised by disused cable entry points on the horizontal top surface of CU, possible access to Live parts

134.1.1, 416.2.2

Reversed polarity of incoming CU tails

ESQCR, 131.1.1, 643.6

Switches in Neutral conductors

132.14.1, 530.3.3, 643.6

Equipment not installed to manufacturers’ instructions, causing a potentially dangerous installation

134.1.1

GET THE BOOK AND CRACK THOSE CODES!

Updated for BS 7671:2018, NAPIT’s EICR Codebreakers publication is purpose-written to aid contractors, inspectors and clients, and now includes updates to align with the 18th Edition of the wiring regulations. A 2018 Professional Electrician & Installer ‘Top Product’ award winner, the book is the perfect technical aid for electrical professionals and their customers.

20 April 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

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Need help with cracking those all-important EICR codes? Every month the technical team at NAPIT will be studying your latest ‘Caught on Camera’ photos and offering advice on the next steps, should you find a similar installation. If you want the team at NAPIT to help crack your codes then send your pictures through to us at: pe@hamerville.co.uk

STUART RIBY: I GOT A CALL FROM A MATE TO SAY HIS MUM’S LIGHTS HAD STOPPED WORKING IN HER DRIVEWAY. ONE OF THE LIGHTS HAD WATER INSIDE AND THE OTHER WAS BURNT OUT. THE PLUG IS WHAT I’D DESCRIBE AS ‘ANOTHER LEVEL’ OF DANGEROUS! So many poor-quality garden DIY installations look like this. Most of the time, the owners are just not aware of the problems, dangers, and in most cases, the low-cost fixes available. Firstly, BS 1363 plug tops are only designed to take 1 x 2.5 mm2 flex or equivalent as a maximum. Even if the two flexes are 1.5 mm2, that's still above the maximum the standard allows. On top of that, they haven't been adequately secured, with Basic insulation partially gripped in the cable clamp. The supply cables to the exterior lights are also not adequately secured, and in one case it looks like they've been moved to a different position for some reason. I'll assume the IP socket-outlet keeps its IP rating with plugs inserted, as I can't confirm this from the photo. The termination of the conductors in the plug top is also poor, likely the cause of trying to fit conductors that are larger than the manufacturer's design criteria which will follow the requirements of the appropriate British Standard. Usually, it's difficult to code BS 1363 plug tops used in BS 7671 installations. In this case, as the exterior lights are fixed to a structure, they form part of a fixed installation and, therefore, fall under the requirements of BS 7671. The shameful thing is that the LED flood is fairly new and looks to be a replacement for an existing failed unit. When the floodlight was replaced, the installation should have been upgraded. The fix is simple, using an IP-rated switched fused spur, and adequate cable supports.

The Observations, Regulation infringements and Codes applicable to this observation would be: BS 1363 plug top max cable size exceeded, contradicts Manufacturer’s instructions and BS 1363

134.1.1

Conductors poorly terminated into plug top terminations

134.1.1, 134.1.4, 526.1

Basic insulation poorly gripped in cable clamp

134.1.1, 526.6, 526.8

Lighting supply cables not adequately supported

134.1.1, 522.8.5

The 18th Edition Codebreakers publication is priced at £17.99* (members) or £19.99* (non-members). Hard copies and digital issues are available. * Prices exclude VAT, postage and packaging

ORDER YOUR COPY OF NAPIT CODEBREAKERS BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF011

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TECHNICAL & TRAINING

PLAN, TEST, ISOLATE!

You wouldn’t drink and drive… so why would you work on a circuit without isolating it? Gary Parker, ECA Technical Manager, offers his thoughts.

very year, individuals working on electrical installations suffer avoidable electric shock and burn injuries. Some of these are, tragically, fatal. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), between 2015 and 2020, 21 people died through contact with electricity, and many more were injured. It is vital that ECA members and the wider electrical contracting industry know that many of these accidents are a direct consequence of installers neglecting proper isolation procedures on low voltage installations (operating at up to 1,000V AC or 1,500V DC). ECA’s new electrical installer safety campaign – “Don’t cut corners! Plan, test, isolate”– aims to raise awareness of this issue, promote safe isolation procedures, and ultimately reduce the number of injuries caused by incorrect isolation of low-voltage circuits.

Employers: what are your obligations? A lot of the responsibility lies with

employers, and the onus is on them to make sure proper safety procedures are in place. Employers are responsible for ensuring that employees engaged in work with electrical systems have the technical knowledge, training and experience to carry out their work safely and competently, and are provided with suitable tools, test equipment and PPE. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 sets out the general health and safety duties of employers, employees and the self-employed. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 are also key. They require precautions to be taken against the risk of death or personal injury from electricity during work activities. To comply with these regulations, work on electrical equipment or circuits should always be undertaken with the system powered down and isolated (known as ‘dead’ working). ‘Live’ working should only be carried out in very special circumstances where it is unreasonable to work dead, such as fault ﬁnding and testing, where the risks are acceptable, and where suitable

precautions can be taken against injury. The Provision of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) also require that ‘every employer shall take appropriate measures to ensure that re-connection of any energy source to work equipment does not expose any person using the work equipment to any risk to health or safety.’ What is isolation? Isolation means safely establishing a break in the energy supply to an installation. This also means making sure an inadvertent reconnection is not possible. The key principle of isolation is that the point of isolation should be under the control of the person who is carrying out the work on the isolated equipment – if you are working on an installation, you should know exactly what has been done to isolate it, along with

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TECHNICAL & TRAINING

the risks that may be involved, and what to do in an emergency. Securing the point of isolation should be by a combination of the following methods: ● A padlock with unique key or combination. ● A locked switch-room door or locked distribution box. ● Circuit breakers should be locked-off using an appropriate locking-off clip with a padlock. ● Removal of the relevant circuit fuse (may be used with a lockable fuse insert and padlock). Any padlock keys or combinations and removed fuses should be retained by the person carrying out the work. Where more than one person is working on an installation, a multi-lock hasp can be used to prevent access to a main isolator until everyone has completed their work and removed their padlocks from the hasp. In all instances where there is a risk that the supply could be inadvertently reinstated, a clear and visible warning notice should be placed at the point of isolation reading something along the lines of, “Caution Do Not Switch On, System Undergoing Maintenance”.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND GET A PAT ON THE BACK

d The campaign The simple truth is you’re more likely to be seriously injured if you work on electrical systems than you are in almost any other ﬁeld of work. The following extract, taken from the HSE’s training brochure, supports this point: “In Great Britain, roughly 2 in every 50 electrical accidents at work result in a fatality, compared with 1 in 500 from other causes. As well as electric shock, other electrically-related injuries arise from burns, arcing and fires. Many of the injuries can take a long while to heal and often result in life-changing conditions.” At the end of the day, safe isolation could save your life. Don’t cut corners, and don’t leave your employees’ (or your own) safety to chance.

o you know a PASS from a FAIL when it comes to Portable Appliance Testing? Can you recall the recommended pass limit for an earth bond continuity test? Electrical safety test equipment specialist Martindale Electric has put together a fun online quiz that tests your knowledge on PAT Testing and helps gauge where there may be gaps in your understanding. Don’t worry if you get any incorrect, as along with the quiz Martindale has also launched a dedicated ‘Essential Guide to PAT Testing’ area of its website crammed with useful information, hints, tips and an overview of its popular HPAT series of PAT Testers to help top-up your knowledge and point you in the right direction. When it comes to testing portable appliances, Martindale’s HPAT Series of portable appliance testers enables both contractors and competent in-house personnel to quickly and safely verify the electrical safety of all types of appliances. Designed to perform safety checks in accordance with the IET Code of Practice, these lightweight rechargeable handheld testers are designed for ease of use, with one button automatic testing and clear connection details shown on the tester. The small lightweight design and one button operation make the HPATs ideal for testing in all locations, be it under a desk or behind a monitor. The bright backlit display also provides a clear pass/fail indication.

DOWNLOAD ELECTRICAL SAFETY FIRST’S BEST PRACTICE GUIDE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF012

TAKE THE QUIZ AND TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF014

WATCH A BEST PRACTICE SAFE ISOLATION VIDEO AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF013

ACCESS THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAT TESTING AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF015

24 April 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

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TECHNICAL & TRAINING

RESISTORS CONNECTED IN PARALLEL The technical team at NICEIC provide more essential best practice advice.

he aim of this article is to consider how voltage, current and power are affected by parallel connected loads. This will be complemented using a few examples. It should be remembered that the resistance of a material is dependent upon the: ● conductor material (resistivity), ● length, ● cross-sectional area, and ● ambient temperature.

It is important that the correct methodology is followed when dealing with such connected loads. Parallel or shunt connected loads are connected ‘across’ the supply, whilst series connected loads are connected ‘in line’ or series with the supply. Only purely resistive loads will be considered in this article. Note: A shunt resistor typically provides an alternative low resistance path for the ﬂow of current in a circuit. Parallel connected resistors Resistors are connected in parallel when both of their terminals are respectively connected to each terminal of the other resistor(s) as shown in Fig 1.

a) Series. Voltage divides across R1 and R2

Fig 2. Comparison of a series and parallel circuit

described as being a voltage divider. Fig 2 shows the comparison between the two types of circuits. Although parallel and series circuits differ from one another, the equations of Ohm’s Law equally apply to both types of circuit. The total resistance for a parallel circuit cannot be found by adding together the resistances, as is the case for a series circuit; a different approach is required. Considering Fig 1 in terms of current ﬂow: ITotal

I1 I2 I3

From Ohm’s Law, the current drawn from the supply is: U Rt

U Substituting I for wherever it R occurs gives:

Fig 1. Resistors connected in parallel

U RT

U U U R1 R2 R3

Cancelling out U because voltage is constant: Unlike a series circuit, the circuit current in a parallel network can take more than one path. In which case, the current may not be the same through all the branches in the parallel network, and therefore can be classiﬁed as being a current divider – much like a series circuit could be

26 April 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

b) Parallel. Current divides between the shunt resistor and the current through the ammeter

U RT

U U U 1 gives R1 R2 R3 RT 1

1 1 1 1 ... R1 R2 R3 Rn

Normally, when calculating total resistance of resistors in parallel, it is easiest to use the reciprocal key on your calculator, which is typically denoted as 1 or x 1 . x

Remember, the reciprocal key must be pressed after the = key in order to get the correct answer. Another way of determining the total resistance of a parallel circuit would be to use the product over the sum rule: RT

R1 u R2 R1 R2

However, this formula only works best when there are two resistors in parallel. Where there are more resistors connected in parallel a variant on this formula can be used, but it becomes unwieldy. Note: The combined resistance for a parallel circuit is always less than the lowest value connected, as shown in example 1. Example 1 Resistors of 3 Ω, 5 Ω and 8 Ω are connected in parallel. What is their combined resistance? 1 RT

1 1 1 R1 R2 R3

1 1 1 ϯ ϱ ϴ

1 RT

Ϭ͘ϯϯϯϯ Ϭ͘Ϯ Ϭ͘ϭϮϱϬ Ϭ͘ϲϱϴϯ

1 1.52 : Ϭ͘ϲϱϴϯ

In a parallel circuit, since the voltage is constant, the current through each branch is dependent upon the value of resistance in that branch and can therefore be found

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using the current divider rule: R2 I1 I u R1 R2 Example 2 Consider the circuit in Fig 3, which shows two loads connected in parallel. Determine the current in each branch, the source voltage and the power consumed or absorbed by each load? Note: Since power consumed by each load must equal the total power applied by the source(s) (as per the Law of Conservation of Energy), the manner in which the circuit is conﬁgured will have no effect on the solution process. The power formulas shown, are used whether the circuit(s) are series or parallel connected. The power consumed by each resistor in a parallel network can be found by one of three methods: ● Method 1, using the branch current and the resistance: P1 = l 12 x R1 ● Method 2, using the branch current and the voltage dropped across a resistor: P1 = U x l1 ● Method 3, using the voltage dropped across a resistor and the 2 resistance: P = U 1 R1

Fig 3. Parallel circuit for example 2

First, determine the branch currents by using the current divider rule: R2 4 I1 I u 10 u 4A R1 R2 46 64 I2

R1 R1 R2

10 u

6 6A 46 64

Source voltage: U = l x R, and because it is a parallel circuit having a constant voltage either branch current and its resistance can be used. U I1 u R1 4 u 6 24 V

ASK OVIA

The column where you get to put your questions to the Head of the Ovia Lighting business, Mike Collins, and his team of experts. DO YOU NEED EMERGENCY LIGHTING IN EVERY ROOM IN A NON-DOMESTIC BUILDING?

Some contractors are unaware of the rules surrounding emergency lighting and as a result may be installing it in areas where it is not actually needed, adding unnecessary costs to a project. There are a few things that you need to consider before selecting the correct installation. The first thing you should do is reference the standards, including BS 5266-1-2016 (the code of practice for emergency lighting in premises) which states the areas that need emergency lighting, and the light levels that are required. Here are some key considerations: ● Is the room larger than 60m2? Any large open area greater than this must have emergency lighting so that occupants can safely make their way out of the nearest exit upon mains failure. ● Does the location form part of the emergency escape route? If so emergency lighting would be required, needing a minimum of 1 lux in a corridor. It will also need the correct signage to denote the nearest exit. Signage comes under a different set of regulations (Emergency Exit Sign Regulations BS 5499 Part 4), and again is based on location, environment and size. ● Is it a WC exceeding 8m2 in size with no natural daylight? If so it would require emergency lighting and again this would be based on a risk assessment of the area. ● Is it a high risk area? A risk assessment should be carried out to ascertain the risks in a potential area. If it is seen as hazardous or there is a risk of danger in the absence of light, then there should be a minimum of 15 lux or 10% of the usual output at the working plane in the case of light failure. Some locations may require higher than the minimum luminance, for example a treatment room in a GP surgery. SEND THE TEAM YOUR QUESTION AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF017 VISIT THE ASK OVIA MICROSITE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF018

Power consumed by each branch load: P1 I12 u R1 42 u 6 96W P2 I22 u R12 62 u 4 144 W

This can be veriﬁed by checking against the power developed at the source: P U u I 24 u 10 240W (96 144) Summary This article has considered resistive loads connected in parallel and has shown that the current through each branch of a parallel network is dependent upon the value of resistance in that branch. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT NICEIC REGISTRATION AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF016

01827 300 640 www.oviaUK.com

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TECHNICAL & TRAINING

AMENDMENT 2: SURGE PROTECTION Following the release of Amendment 2, Kirsty Johnson of Surge Protection Devices looks at some of the changes that will affect surge protection. Section 443 As expected, the wording has significantly changed for section 443 from both the first edition of BS7671:2018 and from the proposed DPC that was released towards the end of 2020. Two significant changes are: ●

●

The removal of the risk assessment. This will mean that the installation of surge protection devices can no longer be decided via a calculation. The removal of the special dispensation for single dwellings. They are now to be considered along with all other electrical installations.

Both changes now mean that regulation 443.4.1 must be considered for every installation. Protection against transient overvoltages shall be provided where the consequence caused by overvoltage could: i. Result in serious injury to, or loss of human life, or ii. Result in failure of a safety service, as defined in part 2, or

iii. Result in significant financial loss or data loss For all other cases SPDs shall be fitted to protect against transient overvoltages, unless the owner of the installation declines such protection and wishes to accept the risk of damage to both wiring and equipment as tolerable. The requirement to install SPDs where the consequences could result in serious injury to, or loss of human life is the same as previously stated in Amendment 1. Where we see a big shift, is in indent two, which requires an SPD to be installed where the consequences could result in the failure of a safety service as defined in part 2. BS 7671 defines safety services as: “An electrical system for electrical equipment provided to protect or warn persons in the event of a hazard, or essential to their evacuation from a location” This will mean that any distribution board supplying electrical equipment that would

fall in to the definition of a safety service, as described previously, will require an SPD. Therefore, now that domestic installations are not exempt from these requirements, a smoke alarm that is supplied from a consumer unit, rather than a battery, must be protected by an SPD. Indent three is similar to the previous requirement where an SPD should be installed where commercial or industrial activity could be interrupted, the requirement now is that an SPD shall be provided where the consequence caused by overvoltage could result in significant financial or data loss. This leads on to the final requirements of the regulation: For all other cases SPDs shall be fitted to protect against transient overvoltages, unless the owner of the installation declines such protection and wishes to accept the risk of damage to both wiring and equipment as tolerable. The basic position of section 443 is now that SPDs shall be installed. In practical terms, most installations will have distribution boards that require surge

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TECHNICAL & TRAINING

protection due to the indents described, so it would only be distribution boards that did not require surge protection, as no circuits outlined in regulation 443.4.1 were present. Then a discussion is encouraged between the electrical designer and the client to ensure that no unacceptable losses occur from overvoltage, while also considering the requirements to protect against switching overvoltages from regulation 443.4.2. Regulation 443.4.2: Protection against overvoltages shall be considered in the case of equipment likely to produce switching overvoltages or disturbances exceeding the applicable rated impulse voltage of equipment according to Table 443.2, e.g., where inductive or capacitive equipment, such as motors, transformers, capacitor banks, storage units or high current loads are installed. Section 443 details where surge protection devices need to be installed, however, what is not clear is the type of device required. Generally, Type 2 SPDs will be used for most installations but type 1 devices will be needed in certain circumstances. If the building has an external lightning protection system:

For all other circumstances, a Type 2 device will be sufficient to provide adequate protection for distribution boards. Where protection against overvoltages is required for speciﬁc equipment, a Type 3 device may be used to provide protection. Section 712 As was shown in the DPC, we also have some changes to section 712, with respects to surge protection. Regulation 712.443.101 states that where protection against transient overvoltage is required by section 443, such protection shall also be applied to the DC side of the PV installation. This will mean that if the electrical installation requires surge protection to be fitted to comply with section 443, as discussed here, SPDs would now also need to be installed on the DC side of the installation to protect both the PV panels and the inverter. When the inverter incorporates an SPD, it is only considered as fulfilling the SPD requirement if the manufacturer specifies its use for the DC side of the PV installation, otherwise, it will need an external SPD. Varistors included in the

inverter are not considered an SPD. Surge protection devices designed for the use on the DC side of a PV system are designed to a different standard than SPDs used in low voltage installations. Although they are still described by using Type 1 and Type 2, as explained earlier, where Type 1 devices are to protect against direct lightning, it is extremely important that only devices designed for use on the DC side of a PV installation are used. All SPDs installed on the DC side of a PV installation shall comply with BS EN 61643-31. Generally, the SPD will be a Type 2, unless the building has an external lightning protection system. When a PV system is installed within the protected volume of the LPS installation, the PV system should be separated from all parts of the LPS in accordance with BSEN 62305-3, which describes the calculation for the correct separation distance. If the separation distance is not met, then to BS EN 62305 a Type 1 DC surge protection device will be required to protect the installation from the effects of lightning. Section 514 As expected, Amendment 2 has also given a regulation with regards to labelling the presence of SPDs within an installation. Regulation 514.16.1 The presence of SPDs in an installation shall be indicated by an information notice at or near the relevant distribution board(s).

If the building has an overhead supply:

The requirements of this regulation need not be applied for domestic (household) premises or similar simple installations where the information is recorded on the appropriate certiﬁcation for initial veriﬁcation, complete with Guidance for Recipients as detailed in Appendix 6, and issued to the person ordering the work. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE FREE CPD SESSIONS ON OFFER FROM SURGE PROTECTION DEVICES AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF019

30 April 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

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Working on your own? Need some technical advice? Don’t know where to turn? Ask Megger. What it doesn’t know about installing and testing electrical systems isn’t worth knowing. Every question will be answered by the Megger Technical Team, and the best will be published in Professional Electrician. So, take advantage of the ‘every question answered’ guarantee today. email your questions to: meggermeasures@hamerville.co.uk

You ask: NOW THAT MORE PEOPLE ARE BUYING ELECTRIC VEHICLES, I’M OFTEN BEING ASKED TO FIT AND MAINTAIN EV CHARGE POINTS. WHAT SORT OF TEST EQUIPMENT WILL I NEED?

Megger says: It’s certainly important to ensure that EV charge points are correctly installed and maintained. If you’re going to carry out this work, you first need to make sure you’re familiar with all the relevant charge point testing standards. For test equipment, there’s good news: you may already have most of what you need, as modern multifunction testers like the Megger MFT1741+ support EV charge point testing. However, there is one extra you will need to buy, and that’s an EV charge point adaptor. This links your tester to the charge point and simulates the connection of a vehicle, which is necessary for carrying out the tests. Megger has just introduced the EVCA210 adaptor which, in conjunction with a suitable instrument, will let you test the functioning and safety of all AC Mode 3 EV charge points in accordance with the IEC/EN 62851-1 and IEC/HD 60364-7-722 standards. As well as being compact, easy to use and portable, the EVCA210 adaptor is supplied with not only a Type 2 connector, but also a Type 1, which is important if you want to test Type 1 plugs on tethered leads. The EVCA210 will make a very useful addition to your test kit! VIEW MEGGER'S EVCA210 TECHNICAL DATA SHEET AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF020

32 April 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

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TECHNICAL & TRAINING

BROWN IS THE NEW BLUE Frank Bertie, Chief Technical Officer at NAPIT, provides an overview of the changes being introduced by BS 7671:2018+A2:2022.

ow that it is here, and although we have been aware of the information that was previously released under the Draft for Public Comments (DPC) on Amendment 2, there have been significant changes to the DPC version of the Regulations. From 28th March 2022, BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 will be available for use by those in the electrical industry for electrical installations. However, as with any change to BS 7671, you will be able to continue to use the current edition until 27th September. As a result of these changes, we must now consider two dates as well as what they mean to the electrical industry. Although both versions will be live documents, it is not permissible to combine the requirements of each version, and when carrying out any electrical work, the initial verification or periodic inspection and testing of the installation must be performed using the correct documentation for the version of BS 7671 used. Introduced Now Part 1 There have been some minor editorial changes within Part 1, with the inclusion of prosumers low voltage installations (PEI) under the requirements in Regulation 110.1.2 (iv). This leads to the addition of Part 8 Functional Requirements in Regulation 120.3. Part 2 With every major amendment change there are several new definitions, including: ● Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDD), ● PEIs including references to terms 34 April 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

associated with the new Part 8, ● Consumer units are now designated as intended for operation by ordinary persons, therefore covering a wider range of installation as these were previously designated for domestic premises only, ● Lightning strikes and strokes are now listed as a way to explain the different instances and allow for the appropriate protection to be provided. In the symbol information, Zdb has been included to indicate the EFLI measures at a distribution board. Part 3 Regulation 301.1 has introduced that wording to cover where the characteristics of the installation shall be taken into account to ensure safety. Part 4 Although they were already included in the DPC, there have been signiﬁcant changes made: Regulation 411.3.1.2: Protective Equipotential Bonding This Regulation has been revised. It is now required that, wherever an extraneous-conductive-part within a consumer’s installation can introduce a dangerous potential difference, it must be connected to the main earthing terminal. A Note has been included clarifying that where non-metallic pipes, e.g., plastic, enter the building and are connected to metallic pipes within the building, the metallic pipes do not usually need protective bonding as they are unlikely to be extraneous-conductive-parts. The previous reference to insulating sections in metallic pipes has been removed.

Regulation 411.3.3: Additional Protection Requirements For Socket-Outlets And For The Supply Of Mobile Equipment For Use Outdoors The requirements for additional protection for socket-outlet includes the terms BA1 (Ordinary persons), BA2 (Children) and BA3 (Disabled). The previous bullet (i) has been expanded; the new bullet (i) now includes locations for socket-outlets not exceeding 32 A where person(s) of capability BA1, BA2 and BA3 are likely to use them. Bullet (ii) now covers other locations for socket-outlets not exceeding 32 A. Bullet (iii) retains the wording from the previous bullet (ii) and covers mobile equipment for socket-outlets not exceeding 32 A. There is an exception for a documented risk assessment for bullet (ii) only, and when performed by a skilled person (electrically). Regulation 411.4: TN Systems Regulation 411.4.2 has introduced a revision to the Note where there is now a recommendation to provide an additional connection to Earth utilising an earth electrode. This doesn’t apply to outbuildings of a dwelling in this recommendation.

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Chapter 42: Protection Against Thermal Effects Under Regulation 421.1.7, the requirements for AFDDs now include: AFDDs conforming to BS EN 62606 shall be provided for single-phase AC final circuits supplying socket-outlets not exceeding 32 A in the following premises: ● Higher Risk Residential Buildings (HRRB), ● House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), ● Purpose-built student accommodation, ● Care homes. In all other premises, AFDDs are recommended for single-phase AC final circuits that supply socket-outlets not exceeding 32 A. Regulation 422.1 introduces the requirements for documentation for fire safety designs where locations such as protected escape routes are covered by regulations 422.2 to 422.6 Chapter 443: Protection Against Transient Overvoltages Of Atmospheric Origin Or Due to Switching The provision of protection against transient overvoltages has been split into two regulations covering indirect lightning strikes and those caused by equipment. In Regulation 443.4.1, protection shall be provided for: ● Serious injury to, or loss of, human life, ● Failure of a safety service, as defined as (Safety service. An electrical system

for electrical equipment provided to protect or warn persons in the event of a hazard, or essential to their evacuation from a location), ● Significant financial or data loss. In all other instances, protection against transient overvoltages shall be provided, unless the owner accepts the risk and declares that the loss or damage is tolerable. Regulation 434.4.2 has the provision of protective measures if equipment is likely to produce switching disturbances. Regulation 434.5 and Figures 44.2; 44.3 and Table 443.1 have been deleted, which removes Calculated Risk Level (CRL), Flash density map of the UK, environment table for fenv and illustration for calculating Lp The requirements for SPDs are complex, and we recommend attending one of our EXPO Masterclass Roadshows for more information. Section 514: Identification And Notices Several changes have been made within this section, such as provisions for identification and notices to be included in certification instead of labels within domestic or similar installations, where the information is based on the model forms in Appendix 6 guidance for recipients. Chapter 53: Protection, Isolation, Switching, Control And Monitoring Regulation 531.3.2 bullet (ii) describes the advantages of using RCBOs for individual circuits in residential premises to minimise unwanted tripping. Within Regulation 531.3.3 it is now made clear that Type AC RCDs can only be used for fixed equipment where it is confirmed that such equipment contains load currents with no DC components. Part 6 Inspection and Testing The insulation resistance requirements of Regulation Group 643.3 have been revised, and it is now required that 500 V DC tests be conducted before connection of equipment liable to damage or to influence results. This is to be followed by a 250 V DC test when such circuits are reconnected.

RCD testing now has one requirement to test at IΔn for all RCD types. Part 7s All part 7s have been revised, including Section 714 in which additional protection not exceeding 30 mA is required for any lighting that is accessible to the public. Further guidance will follow on these more specialist areas. Part 8 The requirements for the design, installation and verification of prosumers low voltage electrical installatons are detailed in this new part. Appendixes All of the appendices have been altered, either slightly or significantly. Appendix 6 has been altered, with a reduced schedule of inspections for the EIC and an example checklist. The model form for the schedule of test results has been revised and now has a separate schedule for circuit details and test results. To conclude There are some significant changes to BS 7671:2018+A2:2022, but we have only scratched the surface in this article. For more information on how to comply with BS 7671:2018+A2:2022, attend one of our EXPO Roadshows, where you can learn from experts who are JPEL 64 members and can provide the best advice and continuing professional development (CPD).

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON NAPIT SCHEME REGISTRATION, VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF021

PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN April 2022 35

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TECHNICAL & TRAINING

Julian Grant, Managing Director of Chauvin Arnoux, continues his educational series of articles by looking at the impact that harmonic currents can have on earth leakage.

HARMONIC CURRENTS AND EARTH LEAKAGE

n two previous articles that have been published in recent issues of PE, I've introduced the topic of harmonics, explaining what they are, where they come from and why they matter, while also highlighting the need to ensure test instruments have enough “bandwidth” so that they are capable of including them in measurements. Having shown how large the harmonic currents produced by modern day non-linear loads can be in comparison to the fundamental 50Hz current, I'd like to discuss the impact and considerations this also has on earth leakage, or residual currents.

It stands to reason, after all, that if the current being drawn by a piece of equipment contains large amounts of harmonics, then the current that is leaking to earth will also contain them. Not only that, but it is the case that higher frequency currents are able to travel more easily through insulation and across air gaps than those at lower frequencies, sometimes resulting in disproportionally higher levels of harmonic currents being leaked than those at 50Hz. This is due to the capacitive properties of insulation, and the fact that the impedance of a capacitor is inversely

proportional to frequency. In other words, the higher the frequency the lower the insulation resistance to ac currents.

Two obvious considerations The presence of harmonics in earth leakage currents in an installation raises two obvious considerations with regards to ensuring compliance with the latest version of the IET wiring regulations, along with other potentially more complex issues in some extreme circumstances. Regulation 531.3.2 states in section (ii): 'in order to avoid unwanted tripping by protective conductor currents and/or

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earth leakage currents, the accumulation of such currents downstream of the RCD shall be not more than 30 % of the rated residual operating current.' In order to be able to accurately measure such currents an earth leakage clamp with a measurement bandwidth in excess of 1.25kHz will be required if it is to cover the first 25 harmonics, and 2.5kHz if it is to see the first 50. Sadly, as is the case with conventional current clamps, many of the products in use and available to buy on the market today max out at 400Hz or 1000Hz. The bottom line here is that if your earth leakage clamp is not including harmonic currents in the measurements then you’re not measuring all of the leakage current in the circuit. More specifically, the readings obtained will all be erroneously low. The second consideration concerns the selection of the protective device itself. Regulation 531.3.3 states: 'Different types of RCD exist, depending on their behaviour in the presence of DC components and frequencies. The appropriate RCD shall be selected........' In this instance the frequencies referred to include harmonics, and an earth leakage clamp with too narrow or low bandwidth will not see them or include them in displayed results.

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Earth leakage clamp capability To ensure measurements include all of the harmonics generally considered today, a clamp with a bandwidth exceeding 50 x 50Hz (2.5kHz) would be required. A quick call to manufacturers' tech support lines, or a search of their website for the data sheet and specifications, will reveal if your earth leakage clamp has such capability. An additional handy feature to have would be the ability for the earth leakage clamp to include and exclude the harmonic currents from the readings. This would enable measurement of the level of fundamental (50Hz) current and the level of harmonic currents – vital information to assist in the selection of an appropriate RCD for the circuit. Without getting into the finer detail of RCD selection, published research on high frequency behaviour of residual current devices has shown that type A and AC RCDs are unlikely to see harmonics above 200Hz, although the presence of third harmonic in the residual current often increases the RCD sensitivity to 50Hz currents. The larger the 150Hz third harmonic current, the lower the 50Hz tripping current required to operate the device. Type F and Type B RCDs include detection of high frequency currents up to 1kHz, although there is debate as to the suitability of this upper limit in light of

modern-day non-linear loads with 1kHz considered by many as too low. Based on this, Type B+ RCDs now exist with a 20kHz upper limit. As a cautionary note, having discovered the presence of harmonic earth leakage currents in an installation, changing a Type A or AC RCD to Type F, B or B+ may result in nuisance tripping that hadn’t previously occurred. Having now installed RCDs capable of reacting to the harmonic earth leakage currents present, it’s a good idea to be prepared to have to go on and resolve those issues. Accuracy is vital The take away here is that it is vitally important to make sure that the earth leakage clamp you're using is designed to give accurate results in the presence of harmonics. The F65 from Chauvin Arnoux will measure leakage currents down to a resolution of 10 mA with frequencies up to 3kHz – better than the 2.5kHz required to see the first fifty harmonics. Unusually for a leakage clamp, it also has a selection of other functions including measurement of voltage, frequency, resistance and continuity. Today, where almost everything is controlled electronically, problems with harmonics are here to stay. Wise are the contractors who familiarise themselves with these problems and ensure that they're well-equipped to deal with them. VIEW THE CHAUVIN ARNOUX F65 EARTH LEAKAGE CLAMP TECHNICAL DATA SHEET AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF022

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THE TRAINING GROUND I see so many adverts making outrageous claims about becoming qualified when it’s clear that the course will not give someone the proper skills to work in the industry – what can be done about this? The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership regularly receives complaints from individuals who have spent considerable amounts on courses that look impressive to the untrained eye, but on closer inspection don’t deliver the skills and knowledge to become qualified. The customer is left significantly out of pocket and extremely distressed, often tied into an expensive finance agreement. Carefully worded communications As ‘electrician’ is not a protected term or licenced occupation, unfortunately training providers can offer these misleading packages which are often accompanied by careful wording. Unless they make a specific claim, such as qualifying for an ECS gold card, it can be difficult to take action. TESP’s focus is therefore on trying to stop people signing up in the first place. We’ve been raising awareness via our ‘Rogue Trainers’ campaign – providing advice on the proper ways to become qualified and the red flags to avoid when researching training courses. Look for the danger signs Danger signs include practical training being delivered via a third party, expensive loan agreements, providing limited information, or pushy sales tactics that press you into a decision without time to think. We’ve been contacted by many who have fallen foul of such tactics; they’re keen for others to avoid falling into the same situation. You and others can help by making people aware of the Rogue Trainers advice available via the TESP website. This could be via your friends, local community networks or social media groups where we can reach people looking to change career. The more people that spread the word, the more we can forewarn and forearm individuals with the advice they need when looking for electrical training. VISIT THE TESP WEBSITE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF024 LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ROGUE TRAINERS CAMPAIGN AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF025

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TECH THAT!

n a typical job, you’ve probably never calculated how much time, effort and energy you’ve spent going backwards and forwards to your tool bag or van to grab tools, ﬁxings, fastenings and a hundred other things beside. If you did, the chances are the results would surprise you. ToughBuilt’s ClipTech system seeks to minimise this issue, helping professionals to organise their tools faster and easier, and allowing them to carry what they need, when they need. Increasing productivity on the job site is one of the key beneﬁts the system offers. This heavy-duty range of tool bags, pouches, totes, belts and accessories are all compatible with the ClipTech system and can be connected by one clever little innovation. Hub be good Central to the system is the humble ClipTech Hub. This patented attachment point can be easily connected to any tool belt (whether that’s one of the four offered by ToughBuilt or one from other manufacturers) as well as to the manufacturer’s range of hard body Massive Mouth bags, totes, a ClipTech wall organiser, or even screwed directly to a wall or joist. The hub is part of over 50 products in the range and growing fast. “Once you start using ClipTech products, you’ll wonder how you ever

When it comes to pouches, totes, tool belts and accessories, ToughBuilt’s ClipTech system carries some real advantages. We find out more.

lived without them” explains ToughBuilt’s Matt Handley. “They combine practicality, versatility and flexibility in equal and impressive measure but ultimately increase productivity on the job site. “Key to the system’s ability to help you get organised like never before is a unique attachment point called a ClipTech Hub. These hubs can be used to attach one of our pouches virtually anywhere, without the need for any kind of tool and with the complete peace of mind of knowing, that once attached, your pouch will stay securely in place. You can add or remove different pouches from your tool belt as quick and readily as you need to.” There are a number of pouches in the range to choose from in all shapes and sizes, including general utility pouches and mega supply pouches for holding hand tools, power tools, fixings, fasteners and other similar items. No matter which pouch or holster you choose, the manufacturer promises they’re ‘ToughBuilt’ in name and in nature. To cope with the most demanding site environments, they benefit from a rugged six-layer construction and use heavy-duty, reinforced rivets. ToughBuilt is so sure about the quality, durability and longevity of its products that it is backing them up with a 25-year guarantee, which can be activated by registering your purchase on the company’s website.

In the bag A well-designed tool bag is every tradesperson’s dream, and ToughBuilt’s ClipTech-enabled hard body Massive Mouth bags are packed with design features. These impact-tested bags come with a ClipTech bar, allowing you to attach multiple pouches and carry everything at once, meaning less trips to and from the van. The Rolling Massive Mouth bags feature rugged off-road wheels, a telescopic handle and waterproof body meaning less weight to carry, with a 38cm opening for clear visibility and quick access to what’s inside. Matt concludes: “Thanks to their durable, ﬂexible and interchangeable nature, ClipTech products make it easier than ever to tailor your tool belt or work site storage to suit the task in hand and to have everything you need within arm’s reach.”

BROWSE THE FULL CLIPTECH PRODUCT RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF026

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FORTRESS STRENGTHENED

The Fortress circuit protection range from BG is about to launch its latest upgrade. David Cleaver, Product Director, talks us through the latest improvements and how this launch dovetails with the new guidelines around Amendment 2 (2022) to BS 7671:2018 (IET Wiring Regulations).

e continuously aim to help contractors complete installations in a much quicker and easier fashion – this is always the key driver behind our ongoing product development. Therefore, the basis of our continuous product development comes from trusted contractor feedback. The timing of these latest changes is of no coincidence; with Amendment 2 of the 18th Edition (BS 7671:2018+A2:2022) now released, the upgraded Fortress will be available to the market from this month onwards.

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Fortress’ new features The main changes centre around a redesigned base and lid, with optimised cable entry points, improved connection and new blanking covers. Of course, this goes hand-in-hand with a raft of new devices and board conﬁgurations to meet the new AMD2 guidelines. Cable knockouts Based on feedback, knockout positions have been moved to the top and bottom of the base. Why is this better? This change enables the incoming wires to be in line with the offset incomer, making installation easier and termination of the

cables more straightforward. This helps to minimise stress on the cable, termination DIN rail, and devices. The knockouts themselves now have reduced contact points, making removal easier and protecting the board against damage during this process. For our recessed variants, we have added additional knockouts to the rear. Improved lid and base The new lid has been redesigned to add strength and rigidity whilst ensuring an accurate and secure ﬁt with the base. The base itself has also been beefed up, additional strengthening ribs on the top and

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bottom faces, ensure the base is rock solid when being secured. A step-down aperture has been added to improve the fit around the devices and blanks, when fitting the cover. What’s more, a new and convenient lid retainer (available from September) allows the lid to be held open. This simple solution is a significant change when finishing an install, or checking the board, leaving both hands free to access the devices. More new features to look out for Inside the board, the cable pin terminal has been removed from the internal neutral connections, improving the connection with the terminal block – providing a more even terminal torque and greater surface area. Newly designed blank cover plates offer a more rigid and improved fit. The blank covers simply twist and slide in

place securely. To remove, a tool is required, guaranteeing they cannot be easily moved. This is an important safety feature. Furthermore, a slimmer version will also be available to ensure the IP2XC rating criteria is met. Making it easy to comply At BG Electrical, we aim to help our contractors meet all standards and requirements. In anticipation of Amendment 2 of the 18th Edition, we have reviewed our range to make sure contractors ﬁnd it easy to comply. The main change is around regulation 421.1.7, which we believe will result in Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) being mandated in speciﬁc installations and recommended in others. This will mean that their use will become more widespread. The second notable change falls under regulation 443.4, which will see Surge Protection Devices more commonplace in most installations, especially in residential applications. Finally, the third major difference will impact regulations 531.3.2 and 531.3.3,

requiring more A Type RCDs/RCBOs devices in place of AC Type devices. We expect this to lead to an increase in demand for RCBO devices in residential applications. Our range of Fortress devices has been extended with AFDDs. Combined with our existing Surge Protection and A Type RCD and RCBOs, everything a contractor needs to meet the new regulations has been covered. Additionally, all devices in the Fortress range are forward and backward compatible with our new and existing consumer units. In summary The latest upgrades to BG Fortress have optimised its design, making the range more robust, quicker to install and fully compliant with all new guidelines. These changes have been made with the help of trusted installers working with our product experts to help meet the requirements of imminent regulation changes. We want to thank all the contractors that provided us with their feedback and those that collaborated directly with us. If you would like to give feedback on any of our product ranges and help us further develop the products you love to install, let us know at marketing@luceco.com. For a comprehensive overview of the regulation changes and how they affect our products, we recommend attending one of our BG Electrical 18th Edition Amendment 2 presentations. GET DATES AND LOCATIONS FOR BG ELECTRICAL’S 18TH EDITION AMD 2 PRESENTATIONS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF027 BROWSE THE FULL BG FORTRESS CIRCUIT PROTECTION RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF028

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The team at ROBUS share five top tips for reducing energy costs and introducing sustainable lighting concepts on your next project.

CUTTING THOSE COSTS

s we move towards a more energy conscience world and look for ways to save costs on our energy consumption, we need to find the best products to meet those needs. As the green building market continues to grow, electrical contractors are keen to find ways to introduce energy and sustainability into their plans. A good energy efficient lighting design can deliver a number of benefits such as: ● Lowering environmental impact, ● Reducing energy costs, ● May have less maintenance due to heat loss, ● Reduces energy losses, ● More optimised lighting.

indoors and outdoors, the broad range of applications include beneﬁts such as maximising energy efficiency, complying with green building requirements, and satisfying building codes.

2. Selecting the right Lumen With lighting, it’s essential to know what light is needed in what room. Sufficient lighting in workspaces or classrooms, for example, can have a direct impact on the user’s mood and productivity. When choosing your lumen value, you should be asking what will the purpose of the light be? For instance, will it be used for reading or relaxing? If the space is underlit it may have adverse effects. Similarly light levels that are too high will result in excess

energy consumption so choosing your correct lighting is essential in energy efficiency. 3. Keep your efficacy high Efficacy is a measurement used to indicate the ability of a light source to emit visible light using a given amount of power – the higher the lumens per watt, the better the result. This means the lamp uses less energy to emit the same or greater amount of light. It also means that for the end user there’s less money spent for the same amount of light. Thus, we recommended that you choose LEDs over traditional incandescent lamps that have typically low efficacy.

That’s why we’ve come up with our top ﬁve tips for energy saving and sustainable lighting solutions: 1. Take control of your lighting Lighting controls are automated systems used to control lighting ﬁxtures to deliver the right levels of light at the right time with the aim of optimising energy usage. Lighting controls are paramount in energy saving for this reason as they ensure that the light is not wasted and maximise efficiency. A good lighting design will include a good controls design. These systems include timers, sensors such as Microwave, PIR and Photocell, control switching and dimming of lighting. With uses for both

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lighting control, leading to typical energy savings of between 40 & 75%.

4. Work smart, light smart Smart lighting is a great way to conserve on your energy expenditure. By installing smart elements into homes or businesses, the user can automate the lights to be used only when needed. Smart lighting works similarly to lighting controls in that they contain sensors which can detect various elements like motion, temperature, and the ambient level. Photocell sensors provide daylight

harvesting functionality to control lighting levels. They detect the amount of sunlight present and adjust the light levels to allow optimised energy usage. The ﬂexibility of the smart system, with the addition of timed schedules, provides almost limitless options for the application and conﬁguration of sensors. Data on area traffic or occupancy from advanced sensors can also be fed into the system for a virtuous circle to customise the

5. Choose your temperature wisely Different spaces have different needs, therefore when creating an electrical design, it should reflect the individual requirements of the space. For instance, rooms without access to natural light may place more emphasis on the need for LEDs with colour temperatures that mimic natural daylight. This design can reap a number of benefits to the end user such as improved mood and health, and increased productivity. Placing a focus on designs like these where colour temperatures are the focus point creates an environment that is more user-friendly and flexible, resulting in a longer lasting and sustainable lighting plan. BROWSE THE LATEST ROBUS LIGHTING CATALOGUE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF029

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TURNING UP THE HEAT Brent Lammert of HIKMICRO looks at the advantages of using thermal cameras to find electrical faults.

s most electricians know, heat is the by-product of an operating electrical circuit. Excessive heat is also a way for maintenance technicians to identify any hot spots and potentially dangerous electrical faults. These faults can increase costs through equipment failure, additional repairs, and service interruptions for business or related facilities.

What causes electrical faults? An electrical fault is an abnormal condition that alters voltage or current. For example, it can be a loose connection, damaged insulation, or a build-up of debris. Because current flow naturally generates heat, faults can create thermal hazards which cause property damage and interrupt normal operations. Severity of a fault is categorised by how far the current temperature rises above a reference temperature or a comparable location under the

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same load. As the temperature difference increases, so do energy and repair costs and the risk of fire. These electrical systems are extremely powerful and need routine inspections to ensure reliability, reduce maintenance costs, and operate safety. With larger facilities, there is a greater risk for catastrophic failures, resulting in fire damages that can cost thousands of pounds to repair. By adding a thermal imaging camera to your tool bag, you can find and address these issues in a safe and cost-effective manner. How can thermography help? Without thermal imaging technology, searching for electrical faults requires direct contact or hands-on testing. Electric power to equipment that needs inspection is turned off, which can negatively impact business operations,

especially if a company relies on this circuit for its power source or data centre. Thermography allows ﬁeld professionals to step back – literally – and inspect from a safe distance. While some cabinets and equipment may still need to be opened to provide line of sight for measurements, thermal cameras themselves do not require direct contact. With IR Windows, thermographers can view components without opening cabinets, enabling much faster and safer inspections. Thermal cameras also do not require de-energising of equipment; at least a partial load is necessary to measure any heat discrepancies that indicate an electrical fault. Because of this, thermography reduces potential losses for production or service interruptions during inspection. Thermal cameras collect visual as well as data points, giving electricians the opportunity to show customers the severity of their electrical problems. Professionals can use this collected information to support repair requests and

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verify that their work has solved the issue. Improved documentation also builds historical data for future analysis. Maintenance personnel can track more details for problem items across multiple scheduled inspections. How are thermal cameras used for inspections? The key to using thermal cameras for inspection of electrical systems is accurate measurement of temperatures and comparison. Comparison alone will give you a good idea of areas to inspect further and measurements will allow you to classify the severity of the fault. To determine severity the user will compare measurements from the component in question to a similar one under the same load. Another common metric is to measure the temperature rise above ambient. Important parameters to set for accurate measurement are emissivity (how reﬂective the surface is), background temperature, and distance. If you’re viewing connections through an IR Window you would also need to input the window transmission. Most standards for thermal inspection include information on acceptable limits, safety protocols, and other requirements to ensure reliability. While thermal cameras cannot completely replace the need for visual and contact inspections, they can help pinpoint where in the system these types of inspections are warranted. Thermography provides maintenance staff the information they need for early detection and for prioritising repairs, which in turn saves money. These exceptional tools can therefore improve safety, reliability, efficiency, and costs.

BROWSE THE FULL RANGE OF THERMAL IMAGING CAMERAS FROM HIKMICRO AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF030

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We catch up with the team at Prefect Controls to find out more about why this year will mark 25 years of studying degrees C.

THE PREFECT CONCEPT

hile Harry Potter left platform 93/4 from King’s Cross to begin a new chapter at Hogwarts, Freshers arriving for their first year at university would also be settling in by enjoying pint of lager for less than £2, listening on their Discman to Elton John’s Candle in the Wind, a tribute to Princess Diana who had died in August of that year – 1997. This was an age before social media, when it would cost you 10p to send a text. But, Steve Jobs re-joined Apple, and was formulating plans for iMac, iPod, iPad, iPhone et al, and that would change our relationship with technology forever. The UK elected New Labour to govern the country in May, with Tony Blair promising to deliver his party’s top three priorities – Education, Education, Education. Students predominantly lived in halls of residence or houses for multiple occupation (HMOs), many with the atmosphere of a hostel and invariably too cold or too hot. New Labour promised that ‘things can only get better’.

Improving student accommodation As part of a major programme to improve student accommodation in York, the University signed a deal with a telecoms provider to fit phones in all student rooms, bringing with it the potential for dial-up data services. How times have changed in just 25 years! Founded that same year, Prefect Controls’ target market centred around

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commercial providers of rooms, student accommodation, hotels etc, where the excessive use of heating energy by guests, who were not subject to the direct cost, was a problem. The market requirement was clear – a range of controls that would provide access to adjustment by the guest, while behind the scenes the business owner had overall control of the temperature and time set points. This strategy of identifying the need of both guest and business owner has enabled Prefect’s team of design engineers to develop a full range of space heating controls – from standalone (local control) to a fully centralised system. From what is now considered a very basic timer control, installed in 400 rooms at the University of East London, Prefect has more than 30,000 rooms connected through Irus, its central control system, and more rooms controlled locally using the ecostat2 range. Glen Golding, MD at Prefect, says: “We consider ourselves to be a problem solving company and utilise the latest technologies to help customers resolve the issues they have. “This has developed from straightforward temperature control to monitoring for unusual levels of humidity, decibels, light and CO2, any of which can make a room an uncomfortable living/studying environment”.

Outside the student bedrooms, Prefect also controls hot water, detects leaks, senses when fire doors are opened and ensures hobs cannot be left on when the person using the cooker is distracted and leaves the kitchen. Significant demand With universities working overtime to meet net zero targets by 2030, Prefect is in greater demand than ever, as Glen concludes: “What we’re doing today is a far-cry from where we started. 25 years has seen a lot of changes in how student accommodation is considered by providers, and we’ve been fortunate to have ridden the two waves that are, the proliferation of excellent quality rooms, and the necessity to control and conserve the use of energy”. BROWSE THE FULL RANGE OF PREFECT PRODUCTS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF031

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GIVE THE GARDEN SOME ‘AIR’ TIME

f you have your own garden, you’ll know just how much of a valuable space it proved to be during lockdown. For some, it has been their sole means of escape from their house, turning it into an outside extra space of refuge. As such, the garden has been given a lot more attention, with electricians seeing the demand for projects like hot tubs, swimming pools and the necessary lighting that goes with them increasing at a signiﬁcant rate. Garden lighting projects aren’t always the most straightforward to undertake as the external conditions have to be carefully weighed up against what the client might want as a lighting scheme.

Nowadays, clients demand more from their garden lights, to be useful not only for security but aesthetics too. Whether you’re lighting a wall, decking, a feature or just want to create some background, your proposed scheme needs to be effective. Thankfully, some manufacturers have seen the need to invest time and effort to meet these new demands. Hamilton is one brand that has risen to the challenge by developing the Hamilton Air controller – a wireless product that allows you to control the look and feel of a garden wirelessly.

Four channels, one box The kit is comprised of three very well

Norman Bradshaw puts the Hamilton Air wireless controller through its paces on a garden lighting project.

controlled items which work seamlessly together. The main unit is a four-channel radio receiver/power which can be mounted outside as it has an IP56 rating, plus there’s two wireless controllers – a wireless switch plate and a remote-controlled key ring, with an operating range of up to 250-metres. The four-channel radio receiver is at the heart of this controller. Each channel can control a maximum load of 1.25kW, with a total load capacity for the controller of 4kW. Each channel can also be programmed to come on from one second up to 4.5 minutes by adjusting the DIP switch. Alternatively, you can just switch a load off and on manually. The programming features are

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particularly useful if you want to control an electric garage door or gate as, once activated, it can be programmed to switch itself off after the programmed time (30 seconds, for example). This way no one can override it and enter a premises uninvited. The Hamilton Air can also be integrated with any lighting circuits of your choice, either inside or outside. Just wire it into the unit and let the box do its tricks. Sockets for light loads can also be powered from the unit as long as you don’t allow the total load of all the channels to exceed 20A (each channel is rated at 5A max). The perfect project I’d already started a garden project, so the timing of this kit becoming available was perfect. As I already had power to an

outside socket, I simply re-fed the cable to power the Hamilton Air controller. Three cables were then run around the perimeter fence on decking boards where they were then terminated into some of Hamilton’s IP66 Elemento garden sockets or Elemento IP66 switches. From there I connected the 12V spike lights to the sockets. One circuit controlled the lights over the pergola which was the ﬁrst section I tested the Hamilton controller out on. The results were very pleasing indeed. One evening it was snowing and the whole lighting system looked amazing against the night sky. I was able to stay inside and switch the lights on/off by utilising both the four channel remote control and wireless switch to control the different features. The neighbours even commented on what a difference it made to the garden! Another channel was then used to run one of the circuits to the garden shed. This one will power a light in the shed and eventually a small ﬂood light. What I really like about this kit is the versatility that the four channels give you as you can break the project into sections once you’ve connected the main outgoing circuits into the controller. In my case,

there are some other features that I wish to add and as the main cables are already run then it is not going to be too complicated to make the changes. The Hamilton Elemento weatherproof IP66 double sockets and switches integrated well with the planned lighting scheme and were a real pleasure to work with. Another of the features I particularly liked about this range was that the products felt very robust and did not bend or warp easily. Furthermore, the sockets can be installed after you’ve fixed the back and front halves together. This is handy because if you have an unexpected downpour when installing, you can simply close the front lid and all will be watertight inside the unit until you come back. That happened to me a couple of times and I was able to keep the cables dry inside the socket housing until the second fix. In summary It’s fairly easy to sum this product up: if you choose to use the Hamilton Air controller with its two wireless devices for control, you can be absolutely confident that you’re using a product that will give your clients what they want – a garden lighting scheme that they’ll be keen to use and show off, making the garden that perfect extra space to relax and enjoy. VIEW THE HAMILTON AIR CONTROLLER DATA SHEET AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF032

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A NEW 'FORT' PROCESS

Neil Baldwin, Managing Director at ESP, looks at what is driving growth in the smart home and security market sector and how the launch of the company's latest range can provide installers with the means to easily tap into this lucrative revenue stream.

he most recent report from Mintel UK – The Connected Home Market Report 2021 – provides comprehensive and up-to-date information and analysis of the UK Connected Home market, including the behaviours, preferences and habits of the consumer. According to the report, the overall smart home market has been boosted by the lifestyle changes from COVID-19, with ownership of all connected home products increasing between March 2020 and March 2021. Older Millennials are expected to be

key to the market’s long-term success as they're the most likely (66%) to say that spending time at home during COVID-19 has made them more likely to buy smart home devices. With a section of them intending to work from home in the long-term, this should help the overall connected home market. Adapting to a new way As the pandemic recedes, we're having to adapt to a new normal and it is highly likely that we will spend more time in our homes than we did before the pandemic, as a result of an increase in those who are working from home. The perennial

key drivers for smart home adoption – convenience, security and energy saving – will continue to exert their influence. A comprehensive smart security range As the rise in demand for smart home products continues, there is ample opportunity for installers to tap into this burgeoning sector. ESP launched its Fort Smart Security range towards the end of 2021 with the aim of providing installers with a comprehensive range of products that covers all aspects of smart home security. It is designed to be straightforward to

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install and operate and offers an ideal opportunity to make the most of the huge rise in demand for smart home products. The complete range of smart security products includes intruder alarms, video doorbell, video security light, sensors and a selection of 1080p cameras, all operated under a single App – the ‘Click Smart+’ App. The App is subscription-free, with no additional fees incurred. By bringing the operation of the new Fort range under the Click Smart+ App, users have control of a raft of connected home and security products, all from one secure, easy to access platform. At the heart of the 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. Different kits available 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. Scolmore’s comprehensive range of Click Smart+ products is designed to simplify and streamline connected home

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products – lighting controls, smart sockets, security cameras and sensors. The range utilises Zigbee technology – one of the most widely adopted smart home communication protocols. Click Smart+ comprises the Smart Gateway Hub – the control centre of all Zigbee connected devices – 1 and 2-gang smart sockets, plug-in smart socket, switching and dimming receivers, camera, PIR sensor, window, and door sensor, plus a temperature and humidity sensor. Fully automated Contractors on-hand at ELEX in Sandown last year were impressed with the live demonstrations that allowed them to see how 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 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 attempted break-in through a window the smart alarm activates the internal and external siren for an audible 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. Voice activation 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, ensuring protection for the busy and absent-minded user when it is really needed.

WATCH A SUPPORTING VIDEO OF THE FORT SMART SECURITY RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF033

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FIRE & SECURITY When Clydebank Housing was looking to achieve compliance with the latest regulations governing homes in Scotland, it was Aico that the organisation turned to provide fire and CO alarms. We learn more about how the partnership has been a resounding success.

IT'S LOOKING BONNIE FOR CLYDEBANK

lydebank Housing is using Aico’s 3000 and 600 series detectors as well as its Ei1000G SmartLink gateway to ensure tenant safety, future-proof its housing stock and to meet the latest legislation to maintain compliance. In 1999, the housing provider acquired 750 houses from Scottish Homes, increasing its total stock to around 1,100 properties, catering for all types of residents including the elderly, disabled people and those with special needs.

Regulatory changes The changes in legislation relating to the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987 (Tolerable Standard) Order 2019 specifies that homes must have satisfactory equipment for detecting fire and carbon monoxide (CO). Clydebank Housing therefore embarked on a tender for the delivery of fire and CO alarms to maintain compliance. A requirement of the legislation is for all smoke and heat alarms in a property to be interlinked, which encouraged Clydebank

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Housing to use Aico’s 3000 series detectors with SmartLink technology. Clydebank Housing’s upgrade program applies to over 800 properties including several high-rise blocks. The ﬁre and CO alarm upgrade will not only ensure its housing stock is compliant, but it will also increase tenant safety. The SmartLink speciﬁcation was initially considered only for its tower blocks because access can often be difficult. Furthermore, there is no gas heating in these properties so it was clear that use of the gateway represented an obvious cost saving because the alarm system’s integrity can be checked remotely (this is usually done during the annual gas-safety check). Clydebank Housing will receive real-time alerts about its properties, ensuring faster response times and assurance that the alarms are working properly. Real-time alerts The housing provider then accepted the wisdom of using the SmartLink gateway for all of its properties. The gateway monitors every linked alarm and will notify

Clydebank Housing on a wider range of alarm events in real-time through a web-based portal to provide extra visibility. Remote access to information such as sensor status, alarm replacement dates, battery life, activations, testing of alarms and detector-head removals will empower a proactive approach to asset management. As an accredited ‘Aico Expert Installer’, City Technical Services was responsible for part of the upgrade programme. Managing Director, Kenny Henderson, said: “We’ve been very impressed with the SmartLink gateway, particularly within the tower blocks where you tend to think GSM signals might be a problem given their solid construction, but we found that notiﬁcations were delivered instantly and the use of a roaming SIM card is ideal because WiFi or LoRaWAN isn’t always available.” Flexible connectivity The gateway receives information through radio frequency (RF) signals, with the encrypted data sent to Aico’s cloud-based

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portal using roaming GSM connectivity; this feature is a big advantage because it removes the need for Clydebank Housing’s properties to have WiFi or broadband in order for the SmartLink gateway to work. The information collected through the gateway is then accessible through a web-based dashboard where Clydebank Housing can generate reports on its properties’ fire and CO alarm performance. The housing provider will use the dashboard to ensure detectors are being tested regularly. The real-time data will also help with identifying sounding alarms; this can cause confusion for people due to the interlinking of all smoke alarms

required by the updated Scottish legislation. Jack Devlin, Acting Housing Services Manager, Clydebank Housing, said: “We’re really excited to have nearly finished our SmartLink gateway roll out. In short, the gateway is our vehicle for gathering data from our properties and it made sense to get these installed at the earliest opportunity so that additional sensors can be added when we need them. “We are future-proofing our housing stock for years to come. With additional sensors in the pipeline, these could be added to our existing gateway to provide remote insights on environmental data such air quality, fuel poverty, humidity and

temperature as well as gathering data on the detection systems themselves. “Being able to run reports on the portal, such as faults and replacement dates, makes forecasting our maintenance plans a much easier process. Furthermore, we’ve found that the gateway has been a very successful way of engaging with our tenants and we're keen to see our new resident App in action because it will empower our tenants to make lifestyle changes based on data gathered from our new environmental sensors.” BROWSE AICO'S FULL PRODUCT RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF034

KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR IOT DEVICES HIGHLIGHTED HomeLink (part of Aico) and the University of Bristol have completed research into some of the ethical and data privacy questions around the use of IoT devices in housing. Aside from any technical considerations around the installation

and use of IoT devices in tenants’ homes, the key factors to consider in any IoT project are tenants’ financial situation, knowledge and experience, behaviour, personality and personal preference. Alongside these is the need to cultivate trust among tenants in not only the

underlying IoT technologies but also trust in housing providers’ governance processes. The HomeLink and University of Bristol report also looked at aspects such as privacy, fairness, equity and non-discrimination, improvement of human welfare, misuse of data, public knowledge and awareness, cyber security, transparency and accountability, clarity, environmental impact and autonomy. Aico’s research is based on the views of over 500 tenants and 50 housing sector professionals. The full ‘Connected & fair – Ethical IoT for social housing’ report is available from: aico.co.uk

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AIM HIGHER WITH FIRE Following the launch of the FESS Experienced Worker Assessment, we get answers to some of the key questions that installers will want to know regarding the assessment process.

n last month’s edition of PE the new FESS Experienced Worker Assessment was introduced to readers. It was developed by National Electrotechnical Training (NET), at the request of a fire industry group including the FSA, BSIA, FIA, SSAIB, FESS Employer Group and SELECT, all of which also helped to plan and develop the assessment. To recap, it’s a way for fire industry workers to gain formal recognition for their skills. You must typically have a minimum of five years’ experience in the industry, to ensure you have the range of knowledge and skills to complete the assessment. There are three sections to complete: 1. Digital Assessment: you must carry out a range of tasks and upload evidence to the NETassess system. These tasks are verified by an ‘authorised person’ and independently assessed by NET. 2. Safe Isolation: this task must be carried out at a NET licensed centre. 3. Online Assessment: a multiple-choice online assessment that tests your knowledge in range of industry areas, carried out in a NET licensed centre. Full details are on the NET website, but to provide some more detail behind the assessment, here are some commonly asked questions: Q. I don’t work in all areas of fire and security, can I still do the assessment? Yes – you can choose a specific pathway to reflect the work you carry out on-site. Select from installation; commissioning; maintenance; installation and commissioning combined, or a full pathway if you work across all specialisms. The checklists on the NET website map out

what you’ll need to evidence for your chosen pathway. Q. What standard am I being assessed against? The Level 3 FESS Apprenticeship Standard – the requirements of the Experienced Worker Assessment mirror this. Q. Why do I need an Authorised Person – who is this? The Authorised Person must verify that the work you upload has been carried out by you and is not anyone else’s work. They must be technically competent in the process or skills that they are providing testimony for, to at least the same level of expertise as you. This could be a team leader, supervisor, colleague, manager or other suitable person (e.g. an independent auditor) who can be regarded as a suitable witness to your competence. You’ll be asked to nominate your Authorised Person during the application process; they will have to upload identification and proof of position. NET will then carry out checks on this information, the Authorised Person’s credentials and their suitability to verify your work.

FESS Experienced Worker Assessment ENTRY REQUIREMENT You must have typically a minimum of 5 years’ experience of working in the ﬁre, emergency or security systems sectors. There are three sections to the Experienced Worker Assessment which you must complete within 12 months of starting the process. These sections can be completed in any order:

DIGITAL ASSESSMENT You must carry out and record a specified range of tasks on addressable and/or non-addressable systems in your workplace, then upload videos, documents and other evidence to the NETassess system. The evidence must be recorded from projects you are working on throughout the duration of the assessment. Historical work or cannot be accepted. Your tasks will be verified by an authorised person to ensure it’s your own work, then independently assessed by a NET assessor to confirm you have met the Level 3 industry standard. NET will also carry out quality assurance audits once marking is completed. The tasks will cover up to four of the following units, depending on your chosen pathway. For more details download the relevant FESS Checklist: Unit 1 - Health & Safety Unit 2 - Installing Systems and Equipment Unit 3 - Commissioning Unit 4 - Inspection and Servicing Once you register for the EWA, you will be given access to the NETassess system and full information on how to use the system.

SAFE ISOLATION You will need to carry out safe isolation of a single phase circuit. This must be carried out under observation in a NET-licensed centre.

ONLINE KNOWLEDGE ASSESSMENT You will need to carry out a multiple choice online assessment that tests your knowledge in a range of industry areas (length and number of questions dependent on chosen pathway). This must be carried out under observation in a NET-licensed centre and it is a closed book assessment. If you already hold certain qualiﬁcations, you do not need to sit the knowledge assessment. The NET website lists the industry approved qualiﬁcations that will provide you with an exemption: www.netservices.org.uk/fess-quals

Once you have passed all three elements you will have completed the assessment and will receive your Experienced Worker Assessment certiﬁcate from NET. You can use this certiﬁcate towards an application for a FESS ECS card (card type dependant on chosen pathway).

Q. The video evidence from my workplace – how far back can I go? You cannot use historical evidence. We require current recorded evidence from projects you’re working on throughout the 12-month lifespan of the assessment, starting from the date you register for the EWA. Q. Who is my assessor? You will be assigned a qualified NET assessor once you have uploaded all your workplace evidence and it is verified by your Authorised Person. Your NET assessor will be an experienced

www.netservices.org.uk/fess-ewa

industry professional qualified to assess to Level 3 standard. Q. What ECS card will I be eligible for? Depending on your chosen assessment you’ll be eligible for a FESS Systems Technician ECS gold card (if you complete the full pathway) or a FESS ECS cross hatch card (for individual pathways). GET MORE DETAILS AND FAQS ABOUT THE FESS EWA AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF035

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Dr. Zzeus

IN THIS REGULAR COLUMN, ‘DR. ZZEUS’ TOM BROOKES, md of zzeus training and CHAIRMAN OF THE FSA, WILL ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS RELATED TO FIRE SAFETY COMPLIANCE. THIS MONTH’S INVOLVES THE SELECTION OF DETECTORS... Q. I’ve had a few issues with fire detectors giving false alarms, and when I’ve spoken to the manufacturers, they’ve said either it’s the wrong type of detector for the smoke or area. Most designs we receive from the architect just state smoke detectors or heat detectors. Is there an easy way of deciding the best detector and which are bad for false alarm activations?

detection and false alarms. In Annex E, there are two tables that I have simplified for this article and colour-coded. Firstly, look at Table 2 (below, left) and decide on the type of fire phenomenon, then look at the detectors that are green. The bright green is the fastest acting, while reds will be very slow-acting to the fire type. The next step is to refer to Table 3 (below, right) and think of the area and

BS 5839 1:2017 is the latest version of the standard and Section 3: Limitation of false alarms and unwanted fire alarm signals, delves deeply into the main causes of false alarms and how to limit them – I strongly recommend reading this section thoroughly. The fire alarm and detection sector is under extreme pressure to cut false alarms from current levels to as few as possible. Also, within the standard is Annex E, which takes you through selecting types of detectors for certain areas and which are better and worse for

what false alarm phenomenon may occur in that area. Now follow the line across to which detectors are highlighted green and compare with the fastest-acting detectors. If we use detection for a hotel bedroom with ensuite shower as an example, it’s very likely to have “smouldering furnishings”, so by referring to Table 2 we can see the green detectors are optical, CO2, multi-sensor detection optical/heat/ and multi-sensor detection optical/heat/CO2. We can now choose any of these to detect the

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fire. Now consider what the causes of false alarms in a hotel room may be – steam, aerosols like deodorant and hairspray – and refer to Table 3 to see which items are very good green detectors for BOTH these types of issues. The CO2, Heat and Flame detectors are identified in this case.

Now compare the two sets of detectors from your two tables and the best detector for detection and fewer false alarms would be the CO2. DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION YOU'D LIKE ANSWERED? EMAIL YOUR QUERIES TO: TOM@ZZEUS.ORG.UK GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT ZZEUS TRAINING AND THE RANGE OF COURSES ON OFFER AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF036

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Matthew Holliday, the National Security Inspectorate’s Director of Approval Schemes, describes the business opportunities offered through security systems installation and how electricians can further professionalise their service through third-party certiﬁcation.

SECURE YOUR REPUTATION

he UK’s electronic security systems sector represents an attractive commercial proposition for professional electricians and installers seeking to expand their commercial scope and win fresh business. Market analysts value this sector in the billions, with good future growth forecast as our domestic economy recovers from the pandemic. It is a well-established market: notable factors include the growth of CCTV cameras in Britain in the mid-’80s, followed by signiﬁcant government grants which fuelled the national expansion of public-space monitoring during the 1990s. This drive continues today with wider public sector investment in both security and safety to improve public safety across the country. Practical moves Breaking into the security market, whether it be residential, commercial or public sector-related business, is best achieved as an independently approved electrical installer. It is a sector that is becoming increasingly regulated through Police operational requirements, government legislation and insurance. Buyers and speciﬁers are, in turn, ever more aware of the need to commission professionally

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approved and demonstrably competent system providers. The result is a growing emphasis on the value and reassurance to buyers offered by installers who can readily demonstrate their technical skills, training and operational awareness of the requirements which must be met. For example, to qualify for Police response, ‘Type A’ intruder alarm systems monitored by an alarm receiving centre (ARC) or remote video response centre must meet recognised industry standards accepted by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and similar policy requirements from Police Scotland. The NPCC’s Security Systems requirements detail how compliant systems should be installed, monitored and maintained. They also require security companies providing this service to be approved by a UKAS-accredited Certification Body such as NSI and registered with a local police force. Once conditions are fulfilled an application can be made to the Police for the system to be issued with a Unique Reference Number (URN). This means that if/when the alarm is activated the ARC will verify the alarm using prescribed confirmation methods before passing on a

confirmed alarm to the Police, who will duly recognise the system’s URN and respond to the call. If a security system is not compliant there will not be an immediate police response, which could prove vital if someone is in danger or property is being stolen. Insurance-related implications exacerbate the risks, potentially exposing businesses to further losses from withdrawal of cover. The prevalence of social media also represents a business continuity threat, with the potential for bad news of this type to adversely affect customer confidence. Approval benefits Independent, third-party certification represents a highly respected and trusted hallmark for service providers, quickly demonstrating their technical expertise and a reassuring quality of service. Buyers choosing an approved company have confidence from knowing their chosen provider is subject to ongoing verification of compliance through an impartial audit programme demonstrating their openness to independent scrutiny, their professionalism and trustworthiness. Importantly, in NSI’s case, this reassurance extends to the issuing of a Certificate of Compliance as evidence that

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the system(s) installed at any customer’s premises fully complies with relevant standards, reinforcing the reliability of the approved provider. This includes both British, European and any applicable international standards, along with operational procedures and associated Codes of Practice. Other certification reassurances to buyers include the provision of ongoing appropriate training for their operational staff, ensuring the required level of skill. Third-party approval also, independently, shows that the installer is competent in terms of site-specific risk assessment procedures and implementation of appropriate protective measures. Gold and Silver approval NSI offers two levels of hallmark approval: NSI Silver indicates the attainment of industry’s highest technical standards listed on the installation Certificate of Approval, while NACOSS Gold companies show that in addition to adhering to the industry’s highest technical standards they maintain a commitment to continual improvement, performance, efficiency and customer service through an ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS). NSI NACOSS Gold approved companies combine NSI’s Quality Schedule into their QMS, which is closely aligned with security industry standards, requiring them to undergo an additional level of rigour with NSI auditors during annual inspections. NSI’s Systems Silver scheme is designed as a stepping stone towards NACOSS Gold and may be initially more appropriate to a sole trader rather than a larger electrical contractor, for example. Conclusion Buyers of high quality security systems will increasingly require the services of demonstrably competent, skilled and trained technicians to comply with operational requirements. Professional electricians are best placed to capitalise on this rising demand and differentiate their service offering through third-party certification from NSI or a similar body.

WATCH A PROMOTIONAL VIDEO ABOUT THE NSI AND ITS SERVICES AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF037

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CONNECTING THE DOTS

Amendments to Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015 and Approved Document J means both pieces of legislation will now include socially rented properties, in addition to privately rented homes. Steve Boggis, Trade Business Unit Director for FireAngel, explores how installers can assist landlords in proactively achieving compliance with the new regulations.

ollowing parliamentary approval of the government’s proposals to extend the requirements for domestic smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in response to the findings of its domestic smoke and carbon monoxide alarm consultation, these legislative updates aim to achieve greater consistency for all types of rental properties throughout England. As part of the amendments, private and social landlords will be required to install one smoke alarm on each storey of their property, in addition to the installation of a CO alarm in any room with a fixed combustion appliance, including boilers, fire and water heaters, but excluding gas cookers. Landlords will also be legally required to install a CO alarm when a fixed combustion appliance is fitted. Whilst gas cookers are not included within the amendments, the British Standards still recommends that a CO alarm is fitted in any property with this type of appliance.

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The new regulations will also ensure landlords repair or replace alarms when notified of a fault, but regular alarm testing will remain the responsibility of the resident. The smoke and CO alarms must comply with British Standard EN 50291-1 and carry a British or European approval mark, such as a Kitemark. Interlinked initiatives To ensure landlords achieve compliance with the new regulations, whilst also providing the highest possible standards of protection, we advise that electrical contractors should recommend and install interlinked smoke, heat and CO devices. By fitting Smart RF compatible mains and battery-powered devices throughout an entire property, professionals can assist landlords in achieving an efficient and cost-effective approach to protection that provides the fastest possible warning of a potential fire or CO event. This can be achieved by fitting a Smart RF Radio Module into each device, either upon initial installation or at a later date, to

wirelessly interlink every device together. When one alarm sounds, every device on the network sounds, mimicking the chirp of the original smoke or CO alarm that detected the potential danger. As a hybrid system can be created by meshing both mains and battery-powered devices onto a single network, the requirement for costly and time-consuming channelling or trunking is also eliminated. This enables installers to quickly and safely update the level of protection throughout

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landlords’ rental properties, without the historical cost and resource implications. Well connected By choosing devices that feature connected technologies, the system can also be continuously extended and upgraded to include additional safety products, when required, to provide the highest possible levels of protection, particularly for vulnerable individuals who present the greater potential risk. By installing alarms that include Smart RF technology, a Connected Gateway can be added to an existing network to provide remote real time monitoring of every alarm on the network. Device data can be accessed via a free App, which can send optional notifications regarding the system’s status to the landlord or other nominated individual. This provides transparent and consistent clarity regarding the level of protection installed throughout a domestic property in relation to the risk level of the individual residing within it. From a contractor’s perspective, this interconnectivity enables professionals to document the completion of each installation phase and validate the overall installation, as information can be instantly logged via the wireless network. By taking a photograph of each completed installation, the images can be wirelessly uploaded to a centralised platform to generate immediate sign-off, which subsequently produces a certification of fire legislative compliance, in accordance with BS 5839-6. This intelligent process of confirmation eradicates any requirement for paper-based data capture, ensuring each installation has been adequately assessed for competence and validated to ensure the maximum levels of detection have been achieved, completely revolutionising approaches to documentation and verification. With the government stating the proposed regulations for England will be passed as soon as legislative time allows, professional installers can adopt a proactive approach to protection by fitting interlinked devices that set the standard for a new generation of fire and CO protection throughout all types of domestic properties. BROWSE FIREANGEL'S PORTFOLIO OF SMOKE, HEAT AND CO SAFETY SOLUTIONS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF038

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FIRE & SECURITY

TRAIN TO GAIN

Are you looking to improve your competency, expertise and professional performance as well as achieving an industry-recognised qualification in the process? We discover more about why C-TEC’s new BS 5839-1 fire detection and fire alarm system compliance courses could fit the bill.

-TEC has launched a new series of BS 5839-1 fire detection and fire alarm system compliance courses. Delivered at the company’s state-of-the-art training centre in the North West of England, the courses include both theoretical and practical activities. Covering in-depth BS 5839-1 Foundation, Design, Installation & Commissioning and Maintenance, the courses can culminate in a regulated qualification in BS 5839-1 through FireQual, the specialist awarding body for the fire protection sector in the UK. Brian Foster, UK Sales Manager at C-TEC, explains: “C-TEC is on a mission to lift industry standards and the quality of fire installations across the UK. “We’ve always provided free educational CPD-certified seminars and product training to promote best practice and raise awareness but the launch of our BS 5839-1 ‘TRAIN-TO-GAIN’ courses signals our intention to take it to a new level. “We’re confident the courses will attract a high level of interest as they’re reasonably-priced, centrally-located and

specifically designed to encourage people working in the fire industry to embark on a journey to boost their competency, expertise and professional performance – and achieve an industry-recognised qualification in the process.” What to expect Each course will be delivered by highly experienced and qualified trainers in line with the technical requirements of the awarding body. Delegates will undergo hands-on practical assessments to ensure they understand the subject matter and display the necessary competence to attain the regulated qualification. Successful delegates will be issued with CPD certificates for each module and those who pass a final exam will be awarded a regulated qualification certificate from FireQual. Brian adds: “High-quality training is vital in the fire industry. Whether you’re an industry newcomer or an established company looking to educate new personnel, our new BS 5839-1 courses are designed to equip delegates with the knowledge, expertise and confidence they need to be among the best in the business.”

Bookable over multiple weeks or as an intensive week-long cluster, the courses will prepare delegates for the FireQual regulated qualification examination to allow them to design, install, commission and maintain fire detection and fire alarm systems to BS 5839-1 and confidently sign fire certificates where necessary. C-TEC is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of world-class life-safety systems. The company’s latest innovations include its new CAST protocol fire detection and fire alarm systems; Hush, a revolutionary new BS 5839-6 Grade C domestic fire alarm system and EVAC-ALERT, a new evacuation alert system to BS 8629. FireQual is the specialist awarding body for qualifications within the fire protection sector within the UK. Established by BAFE, FireQual works through a network of Approved Training Centres to provide competency based qualifications to support the further development of knowledge and skills within the industry. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT C-TEC’S NEW COURSES AND FIND OUT HOW TO BOOK A PLACE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF039

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FIRE & SECURITY

VEX MARKS THE SPOT We catch up with Paul Coy to find out more about the latest developments with his fire safety invention, the Vex Box. The last time we caught up with you, we learned more about some of the testing procedures that the Vex Box undertakes to ensure it meets the requisite safety requirements. Do you think there is enough education about maintaining the integrity of fire rated walls, and what are the key things that installers should remind themselves of? The requirements and regulations regarding fire rated walls are very specific. People who regularly deal with these matters at a design stage, such as architects and specifiers, have a mass of data and other resources at their disposal to ensure that the installation will be fully compliant when complete. It is alterations or additions to an existing installation at a later date where problems can occur if, the contractor carrying out the work isn't fully familiarised with the building’s fire resistance properties. Where existing power or ventilation requirements need to be upgraded, it is very easy, for commercial and practical reasons, to plan these alterations using the most convenient and aesthetically pleasing routes for cable containment or ductwork and piping, not taking into account the importance of maintaining the integrity of the building’s fire resistance properties. In the past, we’ve spoken about submitting a request for information and regulation 38. However, if this information

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isn't readily available when the work is carried out then the person carrying out the work should assume the wall is fire rated and to avoid compromising it with penetrations. If a penetration can't be avoided, such penetrations should be made good with approved and tested products to maintain the wall or ceiling’s fire rating. Give us an example application or scenario where an installer should be considering the use of a product like VexBox. Where walls have been drylined and the boxes have been set too far back into the wall or the holes are cut out in the wrong place, this is exactly the problem the Vex Box system was designed to overcome. As well as new builds, when carrying out periodic inspection and tests, if non-compliant installations are identified these can be easily rectified as Vex Box can be retro-fitted.

Since this new version was released, have you had take-up and interest from both wholesalers and installers? Several electrical wholesalers have shown interest in the product and we’ve had a good take-up from end users directly as well. There has been a little bit of market confusion with some assuming it to be a specialist fire stopping product rather than an electrical installation product, even

though no specialist training is required to install Vex Box (as long as the installation guidelines are followed). Do you have any high profile projects or examples where the product has been put to good use? The Vex Box system has been used on several high profile buildings in London, with the unit being installed by construction companies, electrical contractors and specialist fire stopping contractors.

What is the future for Vexbox? We’re always looking to improve, so there have been a few minor alterations to the packaging and installation guidelines in recent times. However, Vex Box is now fully developed and tested, so the challenge is to create awareness of a problem that, for a long time, has not been properly addressed.

WATCH A SUPPORTING PRODUCT VIDEO OF THE VEX BOX AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF040

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FIRE & SECURITY

FROM CONCEPT

TO REALITY

Have you ever wondered how an idea on a piece of paper becomes an actual physical unit? Ian Arbuckle, CEO at LINIAN, pulls back the curtain to give some insight into the company’s product development process.

he initial stage in creating any new product is coming up with the idea ﬁrst. We will identify a problem in the market, either through our own direct experience or when the LINIAN team is contacted by a customer to solve a problem, to speed up processes or make installers’ jobs easier. After the problem has been identiﬁed, the next stage is breaking it down into chunks to see how we can lend our expertise to the task. We undertake

research, and some of the questions we’d be asking include: Is there a current product to solve this task? If so, how does it work? What are the materials currently used? What are the pain points with the current product? How could the process be improved to make it easier for the installer? If there is no solution at all, what would help the customer? Proof of concept We start testing the best ideas internally, often by building and designing prototypes. Generally, we try to keep as broad a base as possible by looking at lots of different ideas and materials. We ask – does the product solve the problem

that we set out to solve in the ﬁrst instance? Is it genuinely innovative? Does it ﬁt into LINIAN’s key themes? If so, then we have what is called 'proof of concept'. Once proof of concept has been established, that’s when we branch off. The product development side of LINIAN begins to look at the manufacturing capacity, sourcing suppliers and materials and the different stages that we need logistically to bring the product to market. We source our suppliers as locally as possible, keeping our supply chain short and ensuring great relationships with our suppliers. Intellectual property Simultaneously, we start looking at intellectual property, patenting, copyright, and design protection. As a result, we’ll then have an intellectually protected product that we can then take out to market. This is important to LINIAN to protect our business from competitors, but also to protect our customers. Cheap quality copies that are not up to the same quality and standard as LINIAN products could be seen as equivalent products, and fail with dire consequences, so you can understand why we take this process very seriously. Then it’s time for more testing, again! If we’re working with a partner, we send them samples for feedback. We’ll also send samples to the LINIAN Dragons, our independent testing panel of industry experts. We ask the panel to sample the product and undertake a practical

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to improve existing products and developing completely new solutions to make the job faster, safer, and simpler.

demonstration using the item. We collate pictures, videos and feedback from the LINIAN Dragons and will then share this with our marketing and product development teams before making any necessary modiﬁcations. We then launch the products to a randomly selected pool of our clients (or to the client who brought us the project) and gather real-time market feedback. If the response is in line with our expectations, then it's time to... Launch! The ﬁnal stage is the launch to market. The unit is put into production, the packaging is designed, marketing and advertising materials are created, catalogues are updated and we shore up our distribution channels. We’ll then inform our wholesale stockists about the new product(s), send out samples and launch at trade shows and online too. We then wait for feedback from the

What’s next? There’s no time to rest – as soon as we release one product, we’re already working on the next. However, even after the product has launched, we’ll always make modiﬁcations if we believe it can be improved. We want our products to be the best and most effective they can be so will never settle for ‘okay’. industry... this is the nerve-wracking part. It’s also exciting as we start to see installation images and videos shared on social channels and receive feedback from installers. LINIAN products are designed to solve problems, speed up installations and generally make installers’ jobs easier, so, thankfully, our products have been received very positively, to date. We’re always innovating and thinking about how

Can LINIAN help you? Do you have an idea for a product or a problem that needs a solution? Get in touch with Ian and the LINIAN product development team at: ian@linianclip.co.uk BROWSE THE LINIAN PRODUCT CATALOGUE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAF041

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