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TO EE FR DE RA ET TH
PROFESSIONAL
ELECTRICIAN THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR THE ELECTRICAL TRADE
& INSTALLER
JANUARY 2022
GIVE IT SOME ‘FORT’ ONES TO WATCH IN 2022
ESP GETS SMART WITH ITS LATEST SECURITY LAUNCH
WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE BRANDS AND NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES THAT ARE SET TO MAKE A BIG SPLASH THIS YEAR
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: TECHNICAL ARTICLES ● INDUSTRY NEWS ● CAUGHT ON CAMERA ● AND MORE…
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Total Average Net Distribution: 68,683 Certification period 1 January 2020 - 31 December 2020
January 2022 Volume 38 No.1
Regulars 5
VIEWPOINT
7
NEWS
13
13 SCHNEIDER’S DRIVE TO NET ZERO NEW 16 CODEBREAKERS 24 MADE 2 MEASURE 49 CAPTAIN C-TEC 56 PRODUCTS IN PRACTICE 64 CAUGHT ON CAMERA
Technical & Training 19 A look at the requirements and circumstances where the provision of overload protection may be omitted 22 A definitive guide to the SPD risk assessment in section 443 of BS7671 26 The Wiring Regulations, energy-efficiency, and you! What does it all mean?
Home heating: why it doesn’t have to result in a climate beating
Products & Business Solutions
28 The importance of safe isolation and the other essential safety measures required for electrical installations to avoid incidents
37 How interlinked fire alarm systems can be utilised to achieve the highest standards of protection, and why they should be proactively installed throughout the UK
31 Understanding the requirements for automatic transfer switches for life safety, fire-fighting and other critical applications
40 ESP takes a look at the growing market for security solutions and explains why it's the 'Fort' that counts
35 Why it is so important for tradespeople to complete regular training throughout their career to ensure safety on-site
42 Top tips to ensure you're not invading the neighbours' privacy when installing outdoor security cameras and lights
Why regular training is vital
44 The DALI protocol: your key questions answered 47 A look at the benefits of dual socket EV chargers and how ‘doubling up’ can work for businesses and installers alike
35
48 Pete 'Monty' Monfort reviews NAPIT's Guide to Initial Verification and Periodic Inspection & Testing of Electrical Installations
47
A new ‘dual’ in the crown for EV charging
51 We take a special look at the brands, inventors, new launches and products to keep an eye on throughout 2022 58 Rounding-up the latest products, tools and equipment to help you in your work
Prize Draws 14 WIN! A bag full of C.K Tools products could be yours 55 WIN! A pair of Apple Airpods are up for grabs
PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN January 2022 3
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@proelectrician
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Meet the team Editor RICHARD BOWLER email: pe@hamerville.co.uk Digital Manager REBECCA MCGEOCH email: rmcgeoch@hamerville.co.uk Advertisement Manager ANTHONY SCOTT email: ascott@hamerville.co.uk Assistant Advertisement Manager IAN TURNER 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 7 EV Charger © Bits & Splits Pg 44 Digital Light © Denis_Putilov Pg 51 Spotlight on 2022 © Mia Studio
pe@hamerville.co.uk
Professional Electrician, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF
Editor’s Viewpoint
If you’re late, make sure you communicate While having a little nose at the local community Facebook page recently, I noticed a growing trend in posts that discussed negative experiences with local trades professionals and even went as far as naming and shaming the businesses involved, so as to dissuade others from using their services. The cause of the angst, it would seem, is a supposed lack of communication where trade businesses have either not responded to a customer request for a quotation, or have failed to inform customers of delays to the working schedule that may have already been agreed. It is widely recognised and accepted that material shortages and the Covid restrictions have caused issues with work being completed on schedule, both domestically and commercially. Most customers are aware of those issues and understand the need for flexibility. What it appears they cannot accept, is a lack of warning or communication about that fact. Obviously these types of community Facebook pages do attract a few ‘monaing Minnies’ (in my experience) and the story is often very one-sided, however SMEs need to understand that in these days of 24 hour social media interaction, it is so easy for a customer to air a gripe and give a bad impression of a company. Ensuring you respond in a professional and articulate way to customers gives them much less ammunition if they are in the mood for an online rant. The value of a personal phone call or face to face interaction with customers should also never be underestimated. A good example of the growing overreliance on social media and digital as individuals’ main form of communication
has been seen recently with Boris Johnson upsetting President Macron. The French leader was angered after Johnson tweeted a letter outlining a fivepoint plan to tackle the issue of Channel crossings before Macron had seen the plans beforehand.
“WHAT IT APPEARS CUSTOMERS CANNOT ACCEPT, IS A LACK OF WARNING OR COMMUNICATION ABOUT POTENTIAL DELAYS.” He said: “I spoke two days ago with Prime Minister Johnson in a serious way. For my part I continue to do that, as I do with all countries and all leaders. I am surprised by methods when they are not serious. “We do not communicate from one leader to another on these issues by tweets and letters that we make public.” Say what you want about the French President, but he certainly has a fair point on this one. It has also created an unnecessary situation where the UK’s relationship with potential allies is further strained, all because of the fact that the Prime Minister failed to communicate in a proper manner. It’s going to be another extremely busy year for our readership in 2022, so don’t let bad communication leave a black mark against your business. And remember, ‘it’s good to talk!’ Have a good month and we hope you enjoy the issue.
Richard B owler PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN January 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
ECA warns lack of EV strategy could leave UK divided ECA has welcomed the government announcement at CBI’s annual conference that all new homes in England will be installed with Electric Vehicle charge points (EVCPs). Speaking at the conference, Boris Johnson announced that all new homes and non-residential buildings will be required to have EVCPs installed, adding 145,000 new charging points a year between now and 2030 to the network of 250,000 already installed in homes and workplaces so far. ECA Director of CSR, Paul Reeve said: “This is a welcome announcement but the bigger challenge across the UK is public access charging. With most EVCP plans centred around London and the south east, there is still a real danger of charging blackspots in many parts of the country. “‘Levelling-up’ should also mean closing the urban-rural gap when it comes to EV charging infrastructure and installation skills.” A Freedom of Information request conducted by ECA in September found that two thirds of local authorities in the
UK have no plans for installing public EVCPs. Over half said EVCPs were prohibitively expensive to install and over a third said constraints such as a lack of energy network capacity were also preventing EVCP deployment.
One borough council spokesperson said: “One of the barriers is the uncoordinated approach on EV charging points – policy is not joined up enough and this makes them more difficult for the public to use.”
Prepare for the future with new ESF report Electrical Safety First has released a new, downloadable report on the ‘future home’. Future Homes – Electrical Safety in the Net Zero Home, considers some of the key technologies of the home of the future and their associated risks, as well as recommendations to enhance electrical safety. The report offers an integrated approach to the future home, reviewing four key themes: housing infrastructure, electric vehicles, product safety, and growing the installer base. “Transitioning to net zero is of critical importance but we need to ensure it is not at the cost of consumer safety”, explained Lesley Rudd, Chief Executive of Electrical Safety First. “We believe that by addressing these key, interrelated issues now, it will help ensure the future home is not only low carbon and smart, but also safer. “From 2025, all new homes must be future-proofed with low carbon heating. A net zero home is also likely to be highly insulated and may include on-site renewable electricity generation and smart technologies, as well as electric vehicle home-charging points. So electricity – now increasingly produced from renewable sources – is set to play a key role in new builds." Lesley added: "However, retro-fitting existing homes will be
a greater challenge. The UK has the oldest housing stock in Europe and deploying such new technologies introduces inherent safety risks, particularly since we are in the midst of a major skills shortage”. To gain feedback on the report the Charity has established a series of roundtables. The first event, on housing infrastructure, took place recently, with representatives from housing associations, consumer protection organisations, fire and rescue services, and relevant professional bodies in attendance. VIEW OR DOWNLOAD THE FUTURE HOMES REPORT AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC001 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN January 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
ESP awarded BAFE Accreditation ESP has been awarded BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment) accreditation for its fire design service. BAFE is the independent registration body for Third Party Certified fire safety service providers across the UK, and ESP will now appear on the National BAFE Fire Safety Register. BAFE manages and maintains a Scheme called BAFE SP203-1 which covers Fire Detection and Alarm Systems. This Scheme exists to deliver quality, independent evidence that providers – like ESP – are competent to deliver fire system designs for its fire detection and alarm systems. ESP is only permitted to become BAFE Registered and appear on the national BAFE Fire Safety Register once the company holds the appropriate/valid Third-Party Certification. This establishes robust evidence of competency requirements that demonstrates the provider’s commitment to quality. It also provides assurances to ESP’s customers that the company will deliver a
fire system design that complies with all the relevant British Standards. Matt Tighe, Technical Services Manager with ESP, had a key role to play in facilitating the accreditation and commented: “The BAFE Scheme is a set of comprehensive competency requirements that have been developed to incorporate the high-quality standards and best working practice for services within the fire safety industry. “It is a legal requirement for all non-domestic/commercial properties to be equipped with fire detectors and fire alarms. It is also part of these requirements to ensure they are designed, installed and maintained appropriately, and ready to activate in the event of a fire.” He adds: “At ESP we strongly recommend using an appropriate Third Party Certificated provider. This demonstrates that the person or team appointed to be responsible for fire safety in a building has acted with due diligence
to source a competent provider for any design, install, commissioning and maintenance works.” FOR SUPPORT WITH YOUR FIRE SYSTEM DESIGN REQUIREMENTS, EMAIL: DESIGN@ESPUK.COM
SELECT issues public reminder on alarm legislation With just a few week to go until new fire safety legislation comes into effect, SELECT is reminding homeowners to ensure they have compliant heat, smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms installed. The campaigning body for the electrical industry in Scotland says it’s vital that preparations are made now before new Scottish government guidance for all Scottish homes comes into effect on February 1st. Bob Cairney, Director of Technical Services at SELECT, said: “Our members are seeing a rise in requests for installations, but it is becoming clear that there is also still a great deal of uncertainty about what is required to be compliant. “As part of our ongoing information campaign, we strongly recommend a hard-wired interlinked alarm system, installed by a qualified electrical professional.”
8 January 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN
He continues: “Self-installed battery systems are of course also permissible, but if choosing this option, homeowners should always ensure that they only use compliant products. They should also seek help if they are unsure how to install these alarms themselves, with SELECT able to put them in touch with their nearest professional.
“We’re also reminding the public that they should be given relevant certification for the installation of a fire alarm system as recommended in the industry Code of Practice BS 5839-6:2019 as amended, i.e. a certificate of design, installation and commissioning to show that an installation complies with the standard.”
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news
For the latest electrical news visit www.professional-electrician.com
T-Level students benefit from Future Faradays event Leicester College’s T-Level students found out more about the electrical industry, apprenticeships and employability at an interactive ‘Future Faradays’ event that took place recently. The Future Faradays programme is an initiative from electrical industry charity National Electrotechnical Training (NET) that aims to inspire and inform full time electrical students about the industry, the proper way to become fully qualified and the opportunities available to them. During the event, around 50 students heard informative talks from Stuart Wiles and Lucy Willett, final year electrical apprentices at Leicester City Council, qualified electrician Stephanie Ward from PA Housing Association, project engineer Miah McCullagh from Elmleigh Electrical Services and Neil McManus, Leicester College’s Construction T-Level programme manager. After the presentations, students had the opportunity to interact directly with each speaker during networking sessions to explore each topic in more detail. The students’ own presentation skills were also put to the test after they were set a challenging task to improve classroom lighting efficiency. Students had been working in teams over the previous two weeks and, at the event, presented their research and solutions to the industry speakers. After each team were judged on the quality of their presentation, teamwork, research and solution, the top two winning teams were presented with a range of prizes from CK Tools and Scolmore. Commenting on the event, Neil McManus said: “It provided a great opportunity for the learners to speak with employers and apprentices and hear first-hand what life is like as an apprentice and what skills employers potentially look for in an employee. All students received excellent information, advice and guidance on opportunities and routes within the electrical industry.”
ALIVE campaign downloads launched In its continued effort to create safer working practices and protect the lives of anyone working on or near electrical infrastructure and equipment, Martindale Electric has also added new downloads to its ‘ALIVE’ electrical safety campaign landing page. As part of the campaign to encourage more ancillary trades, as well as electrical contractors, to keep themselves safe around electricity the web page downloads include posters for the workplace, ‘ALIVE’ safety cards for toolboxes and a PowerPoint training slide package for all trades to use. Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale, says: “There is a tendency to dismiss electrical safety as the remit of the electrician – but the reality is that many engineers, technicians, cleaners and other workers can come into contact with electricity whilst carrying out seemingly innocuous tasks. “As an industry, we have to do everything in our power to change mind-sets and create safer habits and we at Martindale will work tirelessly to ensure that our voices are heard, because those who have lost their lives cannot be.” ACCESS THE FREE DOWNLOADS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC003
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT FUTURE FARADAYS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC002
Aico invite for local charities Aico has recently been visited by three Shropshire-based charities to celebrate their partnerships and discuss how they can continue their ongoing support as part of the charity campaign, ‘Aico Support for Children’. Representatives from The Movement Centre, Hope House Children’s Hospices and Little Stars Baby Bank joined Aico’s Managing Director, Neal Hooper, and Community Liaison, Jane Pritchard, at the company’s headquarters in Oswestry. Aico supported each of the charities last year through volunteering, fundraising and donations, understanding the need for the essential work they do for children and young adults within the community and further afield. Neal Hooper, Managing Director of Aico, commented: 10 January 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN
“Seeing the life changing commitment of these three organisations inspires you to want to do more. We're proud to be able to assist in any way we can.”
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@proelectrician
professionalelectrician
pe@hamerville.co.uk
Professional Electrician, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF
mySchneider returns with revamped look Schneider Electric has announced the relaunch of mySchneider for electricians in the UK and Ireland. mySchneider provides the electrical community with one-stop-shop access to products, tools and business advice to help set up, finance, promote and grow an electrical business. Increasingly, the electrical industry is transitioning to digital, meaning that catalogues, product orders, quotes, and installation guides are moving online. The industry recognises this and more electricians are embracing digital than ever before. With everything in one place, mySchneider embraces digital to help save time and make life easier. It can assist electricians with:
● Keeping up to speed with the latest industry trends – via news and updates ● Gaining access to one of the widest product portfolios in the market – including product literature, technical information, and opportunities to attend focus groups to influence new product ranges ● Accessing exclusive rewards – earn points for purchases of qualifying Schneider products and spend them in the gift catalogue ● Benefitting from special discounts – through Schneider’s trusted partners ● Growing a business with dedicated global and local support – with benefit from Schneider’s ecosystem of certified partners throughout a project’s lifecycle
● Continually improving knowledge and skills – through online training courses on key topics for electricians
Nico van der Merwe, VP Home & Distribution at Schneider Electric, said: “We are committed to providing the platform to
build the professional skillset and business acumen needed to remain competitive in the market. mySchneider for electricians does just that by enabling users to remain on the pulse of latest industry trends and regulatory compliance through exclusive access to industry insights.” ACCESS THE REVAMPED MYSCHNEIDER BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC004
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THE DRIVE TO NET ZERO Tom Gillam, Electrician Channel Manager at Schneider Electric, looks at the latest advancements in energy-efficient technologies.
Home heating that doesn’t result in a climate beating
E
ven though the pandemic is seemingly drawing to a close, living, working and learning at home is set to continue. Under this 'new normal', home electricity use is expected to double by 2050. Simultaneously, as climate change devastates communities around the world, we're faced with a moral and economic obligation to cut CO2 emissions from houses. Our goal is to build Net Zero homes, and we can't get there fast enough. Many countries continue to rely on coal, oil or gas to power their heating systems. Continuing to rely on these fossil fuels to keep us warm through harshening winters and cool throughout intensifying summers simply adds to CO2 emissions. In fact, households account for 72% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and energy-intensive HVAC systems are a core contributor to this. Whether you live in a hot or cold country, the result is the same: unsustainable carbon emissions. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning is the inception point for homes to become sustainable.
Sustainable standards for the Net Zero home It’s crucial that efforts to cut emissions don’t also cut living standards. Turning the heating off and suffering through the cold isn’t an acceptable solution. The priority should be to cut emissions, not necessarily power consumption. Therefore, the use of clean energy for heating and cooling, as well as heating with ambient heat and heat pumps, could be an effective solution. Regulation is already driving change in countries like the UK and the Netherlands. In these countries, fossil fuels are being banned where more sustainable, renewable alternatives are available, chiefly for powering homes. Some countries use other mitigation strategies: in California, for
example, all new homes must be fitted with solar panels by law. As another way to sustainably power homes, heat pumps have already proven extremely popular in Europe, especially in Scandinavian nations. Electricity in these countries is already generated mainly by climate-friendly wind and hydropower. According to calculations by Fraunhofer ISE, heat pump systems in Sweden generate 90% fewer carbon emissions than heating systems that rely on natural gas. However, renewable generation alone won’t be enough. When the wind isn’t blowing or the sun shining, renewable energy sources can suffer intermittency issues. Electrical vehicle (EV) charging – which is becoming more popular – is heavy load and expensive to charge at peak times. This can force us to switch back to traditional carbon-based sources when our power needs outstrip supply. Sadly, we’re not yet at the point when all our domestic power needs can depend on renewable energy. At leasts not without assistance from digital technology. Make the home a carbon-free zone To decisively cut emissions in the home, clean energy must be paired with the use of sustainable smart home technology. IoT-connected sensors and intelligent systems can provide the deep insight we need to make impactful and responsible energy decisions. Effective energy management is central to efforts to decarbonise our dwellings. A lot of the energy consumed by HVAC is inevitably wasted – either through forgetting to turn it off when it’s no longer needed, or heating rooms that aren’t occupied for most of the day. Preventing this becomes PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN January 2022 13
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PRIZE DRAW
W IN
much easier once you have visibility and control through smart energy management systems. Any home can be digitally retrofitted to become more efficient. Once energy is made visible through digital and IoT, only then it can be measured and analysed. Consumers are then empowered to make small changes to their consumption habits, to reduce wasted energy and its resulting emissions. Smart systems can also facilitate more efficient use of renewable energy sources. When all smart systems are interconnected under one platform, AI algorithms can automatically adjust what source the house draws energy from. When a home has access to energy storage technology, it can store up excess power generated by renewable sources to be used when demand is high. This ensures that non-renewable sources are only tapped when absolutely necessary. By combining digital retrofits, energy storage and robust AI-powered energy management solutions, we can decarbonise our HVAC systems and our homes. A smart, connected approach to consumption can keep us warm in winter and cool in summer, without impacting the biodiversity around us. Smart homes: A Net Zero enabler As our homes become fitted with more advanced IoT connected devices, the ability to effectively manage our homes’ energy needs is indisputable. To keep costs and emissions down, a secure interoperable power management system is crucial to becoming more sustainable and enhancing our quality of life. Businesses and governments need to ensure that people have the freedom to make sustainable living choices within the home, which don’t undermine living standards.
WIN A BAG FULL OF PREMIUM TOOLS!
One lucky reader will win five fantastic C.K products! As electrical specialists, C.K Tools is able to offer a superb choice of high quality hand tools and cable routing solutions, some of which are on offer for one lucky reader this month. The collection of premium products included in the prize pack are: The C.K Spira-FLEX Draw Tape (10m) provides an instant solution for hassle-free cable installations, with its strong yet extremely flexible structure allowing the tape to be quickly and easily fed through bends, curves and conduit cables. The premium quality C.K VDE Redline 160mm CombiCutter 3 is VDE tested and approved to the highest standards. Induction hardened jaws offer outstanding long-term performance and cutting jaws with C.K optimised geometry enable superb cutting performance. The C.K Conduit Bush Wrench features an innovative head design, which allows for all sizes of conduit bushes to be tightened/untightened, even when cabling is in place. This high quality product also has a soft grip, tri-lobe handle for exceptional comfort and control. The C.K ArmourSlice SWA Cable Stripper offers a fast, clean and safe method of stripping SWA cable, and is 50% faster than conventional SWA stripping methods, making it a must-have product for electricians. Plus, there's an exclusive C.K Bobble Hat on offer as well!
HOW TO ENTER
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SCHNEIDER'S DRIVE TO NET ZERO AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC005
14 January 2022
PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN
TO ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW TO WIN THE SELECTION OF C.K PREMIUM PRODUCTS SIMPLY FILL OUT THE CONTACT FROM AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC006 Deadline for entries: 10/02/2022. Usual T&Cs apply.
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THE
CODEBREAKERS DOMINIC HARRISON: I THOUGHT YOU MIGHT APPRECIATE THIS CONSUMER UNIT THAT HAS BEEN HASTILY RELOCATED JUST ABOVE A MAINS WATER PIPE! At first glance, the proximity of the CU to the water service may seem either too close or against a Regulation. In truth, there are no such Regulations in BS 7671 for water services; although gas is mentioned, no defining distances are given. Any minimum distances between electrical switchgear, or similar, and gas services are given in: ‘BS 6891:2015 Specification for the installation and maintenance of low pressure gas installations of up to 35 mm (R1 ¼) on premises’ Segregation distances between gas and electrical intakes are given as 150 mm. As the CU is not the electrical service head, and water is not covered in BS 6891, there isn’t actually an infringement. Further to this, BS 6891 states minimum segregation between electrical switchgear, or similar, and gas pipework as being 25 mm. Even if the pipework in the photo were to be gas, they wouldn’t infringe BS 6891 as the distance is more than 25 mm and probably more than 150 mm, if we scale the drawing using a standard breeze block width of 440 mm, allowing 10 mm for a mortar joint, with what appears to be half a block between the pipework and the CU. So, there is actually no code or observation for the proximity of equipment in this case.
That said, there are still issues that are more likely to cause injury in the photo. There are accessible live conductors where the connections are exposed, single insulation not taken into an enclosure, cables and terminations not The Observations, Regulation infringements and Codes applicable to this observation would be: adequately supported, and what appears to be some kind of shared Access to Live conductors at connector block terminals: circuit lines and neutrals, which we C1 416, 526.5 terminations not made in an acceptable enclosure cannot comment on without further information. Another issue is that the spare way in Tape used as a spare MCB blanking cover 134.1.1, 416.2.3 C2 the CU is blanked off with tape, which is starting to degrade and fail, giving C2 Single insulation not taken into an appropriate enclosure 134.1.1, 526.8 potential access to live parts. Tape is not seen as an acceptable method to blank-off spare ways, especially when 134.1.1, 522.8.5, C2 Cables not adequately supported to reduce stress on terminations compounded by the tape starting to fall 526.6 apart. Ironically, I think they may have Circuit neutrals and Lines seem to be borrowed, may not have a re-used the DNO’s cut-out warning seal 314.1, 314.2, FI cpc taken to each point in the circuit, and may not conform to 411.3.1.1 tape that states “removing this seal is BS 7671 illegal”!
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.
16 January 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
KYLE GAMBLE: WE WERE CALLED TO A JOB WHERE A CLIENT HAD A KITCHEN REFURBISHED AND WAS GETTING SHOCKS FROM THE DISHWASHER! EVERY SINGLE WIRING ACCESSORY WAS SIMILAR TO THE PHOTOS. There were so many photos from Kyle's call-out, so I chose those that I found would give the best impression of the many faults he'd found. Firstly, the left and centre photos show the connections for recessed downlights. In both photos, we can clearly see that the cpc has been cropped and not continuous; this means that a cpc has not been taken to every point and accessory in innocent leakage current, which is classed as functional and therefore the circuit. This alone is an unsatisfactory finding, but the centre normal, but without a cpc to allow this to have a pathway back to the photo shows that the manufacturer had supplied a terminal to MET, anyone in contact with it could become the pathway. connect the cpc, which would have ensured the integrity of the cpc It is most likely that the shocks were perceived shocks. Regardless, throughout the circuit. perceived shocks can instill a significant amount of fear into those The outer sheath of the twin and earth cable on both light fittings receiving them and highlight that the installation user could receive a has been removed, leaving single insulation exposed and not taken fatal electric shock in the event of a fault. into the enclosure, another unsatisfactory finding. It looks as if the A genuinely horrific installation, cobbled together by someone line conductor terminals have been twisted together, leaving only with no understanding, skills, or conscience. one of the conductors in a termination, relying on the twisting to give mechanical joint stability, so again not satisfactory. In the third photo, which I'm The Observations, Regulation infringements and Codes applicable to this observation would be: assuming is a fused connection unit (FCU) (as the photo isn't too clear), we The cpc is not taken to every point in the circuit can again see the cpc is cut and not C2 134.1.1, 411.3.1.1 (lighting circuit and SFU circuit) continuous; therefore, not taken to each accessory and point in the circuit. With the general lack of electrical 134.1.1, 526.8 C2 Single insulated cables not taken into an adequate enclosure understanding, by removing the cpcs, which are fundamental to safety, it's 134.1.4, 526.1, more than possible that the dishwasher Inappropriate termination of Line conductors C2 526.2(iv) has a current present on its housing or casing. The current present could be
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/EAC007
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TECHNICAL & TRAINING
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE OMISSION OF OVERLOAD PROTECTION This article from NICEIC & ELECSA looks specifically at the requirements and circumstances where the provision of overload protection may be omitted. Omission of overload protection In general, a device for overload protection is required at the point where a reduction occurs in the current-carrying capacity of the conductors of the installation. However, except where a location presents a risk of fire or explosion, overload protection need not be provided: ●
For a conductor: ● on the load side of a point where a reduction in the value of current-carrying capacity occurs if the conductor is effectively protected against overload by a protective device installed on the supply side of that point, or ● which, because of the characteristics of the load or the supply, is not likely to carry overload current;
Fig 1. Example of a varying conductor size of a circuit not requiring overload protection ●
●
Where the Distributor agrees that their overload device(s) provide(s) overload protection between the origin and the main distribution point of the installation (so long as overload protection is provided at that point) (Regulation 433.3.1). ●
●
●
●
●
Overload protection of circuits can also be omitted for safety reasons, especially where unexpected disconnection of supply could cause danger or damage. Regulation 433.3.3 gives a number of examples of where this would be appropriate, including:
the exciter circuit of a rotating machine the supply circuit of a lifting magnet the secondary circuit of a current transformer a circuit supplying a fire extinguishing device a circuit supplying safety services, such as a fire alarm or a gas alarm a circuit supplying medical equipment used for life support in medical locations where an IT system is incorporated.
Examples of omission of overload protection for all or part of a circuit in
accordance with Regulation 433.3.1 Varying conductor sizes in a circuit (Regulation 433.3.1 (i)) BS 7671 permits the variation of conductor size where heat dissipation varies along the length of a circuit but requires the current-carrying capacity of the cable to be appropriate for the part of the route where it is installed (Regulation 523.8). An example of this, as shown in Fig 1, would be where part of a cable run for the circuit passes through an area of significantly higher ambient temperature or through thermal insulation. Rather than installing conductors of a
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single size which would be oversized for the majority of the circuit length, the cross-sectional area may be increased for only that part of the circuit run where there is a significant temperature increase. In such cases, protection against overload protection is not required at the point of reduction of cross-sectional area where the co-ordination requirements of regulation group 433.1 are met between the smallest conductor and the protective device at the origin of circuit. Motor circuits (Regulation 433.3.1 (ii)) It is common to place the overload protection of a motor at the ‘load’ end of the circuit and usually as an integral part of the starting equipment. The circuit supplying the starter is therefore incapable of being overloaded. Fault protection is provided by the overcurrent protective device (OCPD) at the origin of the circuit. The benefit of such an arrangement is that certain OCPDs, if correctly selected/set to provide overload protection, will not operate when the motor starts as a result of the starting current. Circuits supplying showers, instantaneous water heaters and limited
Fig 2. Example of reduction in conductor size not requiring overload protection
loads (Regulation 433.3.1 (ii)) Circuits supplying ‘electric’ showers and other instantaneous water heaters cannot by their nature cause an overload. As a result, overload protection is not necessary and the OCPD for the circuit is only required for fault protection. Similarly, the flexible cables of pendant lamps and other light fittings connected to a ceiling rose, as shown in Fig 2, will not be exposed to overload current due to the nature of the
connected load and so overload protection does not need to be provided despite the reduction in conductor size and current-carrying capacity when compared to that of the fixed wiring of the lighting circuit. Consumer’s meter tails (Regulation 433.3.1 (iii)) Overload protection does not need to be provided for the meter tails between the supplier’s metering equipment and the first piece of consumer’s equipment where the conditions specified by the distributor are met. Summary A protective device must be provided to break any overcurrent in the circuit conductors before the overcurrent causes damage to insulation, connections, joints, terminations or the surroundings of the conductors (Regulation 430.3). BS 7671 also allows for the omission of overload protection where its provision may present a risk of damage or danger (Regulation 433.3.3), protection is provided by another means, or where it is not possible for an overload to occur (Regulation 433.3.1).
Fig 3. A service fuse can provide overload protection of meter tails
20 January 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN
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SPD RISK ASSESSMENTS:
THE FACTS
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he aim of this article is to guide the reader through the whole risk assessment process to determine if SPDs are required or not. There is still a great deal of industry confusion in this area so the guidance will look to clear up any misconceptions. Narrowing down the options Section 443 is written as a decision making process to narrow down the options. From the start of the section in 443.1.1 the first decision any designer or installer needs to address is whether the structure in question has or needs a fitted lightning protection system (LPS) or is/will be protected from the effects of direct lightning strikes. As soon as the decision to apply a lightning protection system is made to BS EN 62305 there is no further negotiations regarding the requirements for surge protection devices (SPDs) as you cannot have a fitted LPS without
DEHN UK's Robin Earl offers a definitive guide to the SPD risk assessment in section 443 of BS7671.
installing SPDs. Failing to fit SPDs would mean that only three out of the four sections comprising BS EN 62305 have been met. Indeed, there is no point staying in section 443 of BS7671 as this section has in effect been trumped by the requirements in BS EN 62305. The next step in these situations is to install the SPDs as detailed in section 534 of BS7671. Bear in mind that any steel structure, such as warehouses, retail parks and most commercial developments, are effectively their own LPS with a connection from the steelwork to the main earth terminal, hence why there is no possibility of omitting type 1 SPDs as they prevent the risk of flash over or fire. The first step is easy – any fitted LPS will have fitted SPDs to section 534, this is shown at the end of regulation 443.1.1. You will also see that this section does not apply to installations where the consequences of overvoltage are either an explosion, chemical or radioactive
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emissions. In these cases, not only does BS EN 62305 apply but also BS EN 1127 and the requirements of ATEX etc, so SPDs are a given. The next section of the decision-making process is of course those structures that do not have a fitted LPS or are of a construction type that does not offer protection from direct lightning strike, for example brick and tile or thatched roofs. The next regulation is 443.4 and we see four examples that will require SPDs even though there is no fitted LPS. This is the 'consequence of not fitting SPDs' list, and this will: (i) result in serious injury to, or loss of, human life, or (ii) result in interruption of public services and/or damage to cultural heritage, or (iii) result in interruption of commercial or industrial activity, or (iv) affect a large number of co-located individuals, if SPDs are not fitted.
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So, this covers smaller retail units, the converted house that is a doctor’s surgery, or any structure that didn't qualify for lightning protection. The 'shall' regulation This regulation 443.4 is a you 'shall' fit SPDs regulation, there are no discussions to be had with clients and no risk assessment should be undertaken - just fit the SPDs as required. Now it is possible that the list will change in the next amendment, but this is still a 'SPDs shall be fitted regulation' because the consequences of not doing so are too costly for insurances companies to bear. 'All other cases' The next stage of the decision-making process is for those structures that are even smaller than those described earlier and wouldn't have such terrible consequences if SPDs have been omitted. This is the “all other cases” part of the regulation and it is only at this point that a risk assessment is carried out in the form of the calculated risk level (CRL), except for the single dwelling unit where the total
value of the installation and equipment therein does not justify such protection. Notice that if you don’t do this calculation you are required to fit the SPD as you cannot leave an installation not assessed at risk. The next part of this process is to determine the exception to fitting SPDs and this is a cost to benefit analysis. If that is the commercial case, then it is the exception, and SPDs are omitted. If you think this is the end you still need to consider the equipment installed within such installations as being at risk from man-made switching events that is the last line in 443.4. Also, in the sub section 443.6 we are to consider the electrical robustness or the withstand voltage (Uw) of the installed equipment. It is not sufficient to depend on the inherent overvoltage control built into end equipment if that equipment had the lowest withstand voltage of 1.5kV as present in alarm panels and LED drivers, for example. SPDs would be fitted to give these sensitive end loads the protection levels
where even a temporary loss of function of equipment is unacceptable. Summary In summary, the chances are that SPDs more likely than not will be fitted to an installation. By using the “flow chart approach” that we've described in this article you can see that SPDs shall be fitted to installations other than those dwellings in built up locations in the CRL calculation or those not fitting the cost to benefit clause. DEHNacademy UK Dehn UK offers full CIBSE & IFSM CPD approved training and seminars on a variety of related, lightning protection, surge protection and earthing topics. The fully interactive academy space offers a chance to mix high quality classroom based technical training with hands on practical skills and experience, with the added benefit that all presenters are industry recognised specialists. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEHNACADEMY AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC009
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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 AND 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 THE MEGGER EVCA210 PRODUCT DATA SHEET AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC010
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THE WIRING REGS, ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND YOU!
In the previous two articles in this series, Julian Grant of Chauvin Arnoux looked at the importance of considering harmonics in the supply system. This time he turns his attention to another subject that’s of vital importance to electricians: energy efficiency and the IET Wiring Regulations.
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raditionally, the IET Wiring Regulations – which have been around in one form or another for almost 140 years – have concentrated on two things: safety, to protect users of electrical installations from electric shock and other hazards; and capacity, to ensure that equipment and cables are correctly sized to supply the connected loads without danger of overheating. But, since the summer of 2018, the Regs have also highlighted something else: energy efficiency. At the moment, the coverage of energy efficiency in the Regs is tucked away in Appendix 17, and this appendix is designated as ‘informative’ which means that observance of its contents isn't compulsory. So, if that's the case, why should you care about it? There are two very good reasons:
a) Whatever the regulations do or don’t say, we all have a duty to make sure that electrical installations don’t waste energy. Wasted energy means higher energy bills and unnecessary environmental impact. b) There are plans for a future amendment to the Regs which will include an expanded section on energy efficiency that could well involve compulsory requirements. What’s to be done? Appendix 17 makes some very practical recommendations, the first of which is that the load profile for the installation should be determined, to provide accurate information about exactly where and when energy is being used. For new installations at the design stage, this can only be done by calculation but note that the appendix specifically states that its provisions also apply to
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modifications on existing installations, and in these cases, it will often be possible to carry out actual measurements. Armed with the load profile information, it’s time to look at voltage drops and conductor sizes. This is nothing new, of course, but the appendix notes that to optimise energy efficiency it may be preferrable to use larger cables than those that would have been selected purely on
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the basis of current carrying capacity. This will reduce losses in the cables and help to ensure that loads are supplied at the correct voltage for efficient operation. Another aspect to consider is the arrangement of the loads. Where should they be positioned to minimise the length of the cable runs? And, can they be grouped so that non-essential loads can be turned off to reduce peak demand and so that some groups of loads can be controlled automatically? This may be possible, for example, with lighting loads which can be controlled by light sensors so that they are turned on only when needed. In fact, the appendix notes that ‘solutions for lighting control can increase energy efficiency by more than 50%.’ Power factor is also highlighted in the appendix, which suggests that in many cases it may be better to provide power factor correction for individual loads or at local distribution boards rather than to provide overall correction for the whole installation at the main distribution board. Those designing or working on electrical installations are additionally encouraged to look closely at motors and how they are controlled, since using the latest high-efficiency motors and/or installing variable speed drives rather than fixed speed starters can unlock very substantial energy savings. The value of measuring and monitoring While Appendix 17 clearly makes a wide range of recommendations, there is one common theme that runs throughout and that is the importance of measuring and monitoring. In addition to recommending an accurate initial determination of the load profile, the appendix states that ‘provision must be made to allow the measurement and recording of energy consumption throughout major parts of the installation…’ and ‘to achieve a design capable of delivering a high level of energy efficiency, all available energy consumption data must be taken into account.’ Overall, there’s no doubt that Appendix 17 puts a lot of the responsibility for optimising energy efficiency in electrical installations into the hands of contractors and electricians. There's also no doubt that this level of responsibility will further increase when the next amendment to the Wiring Regulations is issued. All of this may seem daunting, but it actually creates opportunities for progressive contractors and electricians to sell more equipment and services, and thereby make more profit. Of course, getting to grips with new requirements may present a few challenges but, if it does, it’s worth remembering that the experienced support team at Chauvin Arnoux is there for you. GET MORE GUIDANCE ON HARMONICS AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC011
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TECHNICAL & TRAINING
TAPING OVER THE CRACKS Frank Bertie, Chief Technical Officer at NAPIT, covers the importance of safe isolation and the other essential safety measures required for electrical installations to avoid incidents and fatalities happening throughout the industry.
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s Rules and Regulations have evolved, the requirements for controlling the operation of the installation through switches for isolation became part of the essential safety measures. Within the electrical industry there are still far too many cases of near misses and incidents both minor and major, with some incidents unfortunately leading to fatalities. Inherent problems in electrical safety Electricity can be dangerous with multiple connections within an energised electrical installation where the risk of electric shock is real and presents danger for those working on such systems. With all electrical training, safe isolation is an essential skill that anyone involved in electrical work must be familiar with and use as part of their work practices. There is more emphasis placed on the larger electrical installation, such as switchboards. The difference between a switchboard and a light switch is size, but both can result in electric shock if the correct safety procedures are not followed. Complacency is a big issue; whenever three-phase supplies are involved there seems to be more caution compared to domestic single-phase installations. There are still a high number of cases being highlighted where inappropriate methods of isolation (including the all too familiar insulation tape) is used to isolate a circuit, which has been part of the HSE inspection targets, when carrying out site visits and through industry awareness campaigns, see Fig 1.
During discussions with a contractor on a refurbishment of an existing building, where sections remained energised and the electricians were working between new and existing electrical installation, several near misses were reported. A follow up ‘toolbox talk’ on safe isolation revealed that out of 70+ electricians, only three had voltage indicators, with one of them being a volt stick, but no proving devices. Where the electricians were operating on a labour-only basis (self-employed), the main electrical contractor had not provided the tools for those electricians, assuming every electrician provided their own.
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Legislation and Standards Electrical safety, including the aspects of electrical safe isolation, are covered under the following:
Fig 1: Examples of Isolation Tape
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The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 Sets out general health and safety duties of employers, employees and the self-employed, including the requirements to co-operate with their employer. Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 Provides specifics regarding safe working on electrical systems. Regulation 12: Means for cutting off the supply and for isolation In order to prevent danger, a suitable means shall be provided for: ● Cutting off the supply of electrical energy to electrical equipment ● Isolation of electrical equipment. Regulation 13: Precautions for work on equipment made dead Adequate precautions shall be taken to prevent electrical equipment, which has been made dead, from becoming electrically charged. Regulation 14: Work on or near live conductors No person shall be engaged in any work activity on or near any live conductors so as to prevent danger unless: ● It is unreasonable for it to be dead, and ● It is reasonable in all circumstances for him/her to be at work on or near it while it is live, and ● Suitable precautions are taken to prevent injury. Regulation 16: Persons to be competent to prevent danger and injury No person shall be engaged in any work activity where technical knowledge or experience is necessary to prevent danger or injury unless they possess such knowledge or experience. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 Places requirements on employers to make suitable and sufficient assessment of risk to the health and safety of their employees and other persons in
connection with their operations within the workplace, wherever and whenever that work takes place. BS 7671 Wiring Regulations EAWR outlines the requirements for safe working and BS 7671 provides the requirements for the methods of isolation and switching for a variety of tasks such as: ● Isolation for the whole installation ● Isolation for every circuit ● Devices for isolation as detailed in table 537.4 ● Mechanical maintenance ● Emergency switching ● Functional switching. The type of installation shall determine the type and number of points of isolation; in the case of household or similar for operation by ordinary person, the isolator must interrupt both live conductors on a single-phase supply. For larger installations with multiple supplies, these will require a means of isolation for each supply with a linked switch or circuit-breaker. Industry campaigning Worrying statistics show that one in five installers do not carry a lock-out kit in their van or tool bag, and 25% of electricians rarely or never use a lock-out kit to isolate the electrical supply they are working on. In response to this need to raise awareness of Safe Isolation within the Workplace, Electrical Safety Roundtable (ESR), a leading industry forum, working with Louise Taggart, an influential health and safety campaigner, proposed that the sixth point of PPE was a lock-off kit. The 12 Easy Steps to Safe Isolation infographic was also created in light of this. NAPIT has always promoted the use of the correct procedures for safe working involving lock-off kits and two-pole voltage indicator with a proving unit, see Figs 2 and Fig 3. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON NAPIT SCHEME REGISTRATION, VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC012
Toolbox Talks Employers have a duty to provide regular site specific toolbox talks with their employees on a range of topics, including safe isolation, to maintain safe working practices. Conclusion Safe Isolation has to be the most important aspect for anyone working on or near an electrical system. Being able to safely perform the most basic of tasks has to be the highest priority for employers, employees, duty holders and anyone else involved in the process. Industry must embrace fully the procedures for safe isolation and not use the excuse that it is time wasting or it is only a small job. Procedures for safe isolation can be found in our Inspection & Testing, On-Site Solutions and EICR Codebreakers publications, which are available to purchase via NAPIT Direct individually or as bundles.
Fig 2: Example of a correctly isolated ACB
Fig 3: Proprietary Test Lamp and Voltage
Proving Unit
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TECHNICAL & TRAINING
AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCHES: HOW DO THE STANDARDS WORK?
Martin Blount, Technical Manager at Craig & Derricott, takes a look at the requirements for automatic transfer switches for life safety, fire-fighting and other critical applications, in accordance with the British Standards.
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n automatic transfer switch (ATS) is an intelligent power switching device governed by dedicated control logic. The principal purpose of an ATS is to ensure the continuous delivery of electrical power from one of two power sources to a connected load circuit. As such, ATSs are commonly used for life-safety systems, data centres and other equipment where a loss of supply could cause damage to equipment or present a danger to health and safety. Since the introduction of BS EN 60947, any items used for the purpose of power
transfer must comply with BS EN 60947-6-1 (Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Multiple function equipment. Transfer switching equipment). One standard does not cover everything It is common for designers and specifiers to overlook other relevant standards that may affect the function, build or operation of an ATS. For example, forms of separation are rarely considered in the design of an ATS, even though BS EN 61439-2 very much applies and access to the equipment can be necessary during
commissioning and maintenance. There’s a small, hidden comment hidden in an annex of BS 9999 (Annex V.4.5), that states for evacuation lifts and fire-fighting lift installations, “A failure of the primary power supply should be simulated once a month. If a generator provides the standby power supply, it should energize the lift(s) for at least 1h.”.
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It’s easy to overlook associated standards when specifying ATSs but reputable manufacturers should be aware of the applications of their product and can offer advice and training on specifying the correct equipment for the application. The introduction of BS 8519 One standard that is often referred to when specifying ATSs is BS 8519 (Selection and installation of fire-resistant power and control cable systems for life safety, fire-fighting and other critical applications – Code of practice). Replacing BS 7346-6, BS 8519:2010 dedicated a whole four paragraphs to ATSs, offering little guidance other than the ATS should conform to BS EN 60947-6 and “conditional to the occupation of the building, a bypass arrangement should be incorporated to enable the changeover device to be maintained without loss of service from the critical plant.”. Effectively, incorporating a single-line bypass feature to an ATS was all that was needed to fulfil the requirements of the standard. At least it was for a decade... BS 8519:2020 greatly expands on clause 9, entitled “Automatic changeover devices”, which was to be expected. At a time when life safety and fire-fighting systems were under intense scrutiny, deeper consideration of all the associated systems was welcome. The section now covers a whole page and has necessitated the biggest change in ATS design in years, however, not all of the changes were expected, or even accepted as progress.
integrated controller from the same manufacturer” and “should be based on switch technology” does rule out the use of contactors with separate controls for life safety circuits. Motors and their use in critical systems The mention that the ATSs should be specified with a utilisation category of AC33A or AC33B was no surprise, as many life-safety and fire-fighting loads that the standard refers to contain motors, i.e., fire-fighting lifts, smoke extract fans, sprinkler pumps. Maintenance bypasses Although BS 8519:2020 goes into slightly more detail on the bypass, it passes the responsibility of deciding whether it is indeed required and the type of bypass needed to the designer or consultant. “The designer should carry out a design risk assessment for the specific application to identify the impact of the loss of service, for example, during planned maintenance. It should identify whether there are alternative management activities that could be put in place that would overcome the need for the bypass.” This suggests that building schemes could comply with the standard without the use of a bypass in the critical ATSs on the condition that a risk assessment has
Contactors The standards insist that “the ATS device should meet the PC classification conforming to BS EN 60947-6-1”. This on its own does not rule out the use of contactors as BS EN 60947-6-1 accepts contactors that have a manufacturer assigned conditional short-circuit current rating and which meet certain temperature rise criteria. Therefore, contactors can meet the CC and PC classification, however, the comments, “The automatic transfer switch (ATS) should be a single component with
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been carried out to prove that their inclusion wouldn’t negatively affect the safety of the system. All ATS manufacturers should be aware of BS 8519:2020. If they see a specification referring to this standard and there are no details on the type of bypass required on the ATSs, then questions should be asked. The standard puts the responsibility on the designer to specify this so no reputable manufacturer will risk the liability of quoting the incorrect product. Conclusion The impact of BS 8519:2020 was considerable and instantaneous. Seemingly overnight, ATS specifications were demanding compliance to the standard, with or without the necessary information on bypass types or application information, leaving manufacturers chasing information from customers and chasing material from suppliers that are battling with unprecedented demands. External factors such as Brexit and COVID-19 have only made supply chain issues worse. There's no doubt that the standard is a half-step in the right direction, but when specifying critical ATSs now, it’s important to fully understand it, along with any other associated standards that may affect the application. Craig & Derricott offers an extensive range of low voltage products, including automatic transfer switches, EV chargers, electrical switchgear and control stations, rail rolling stock components and rail LED lighting, all supported by a bespoke design service. We provide a wide of Automatic Transfer Switches that meet the requirements of both BS 8519: 2010 & BS 8519:2020, as well as a series of CPD approved training presentations covering different topics within the Low Voltage Switchgear industry. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT CRAIG & DERRICOTT'S RANGE OF AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCHES BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC013
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TECHNICAL & TRAINING
Martin Dunn, Senior Training Officer at Makita, explains why it is so important for tradespeople to complete regular training throughout their career to ensure safety on-site, and what to look for when selecting a course.
TRAIN UP AND STAY SAFE
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Vibration – this is serious risk that any power tool user should take seriously. Without the proper precautions taken, permanent damage can be incurred through Hand-Arm Vibration such as Vibration White Finger and carpal tunnel.
hilst working with power tools and machinery is second nature to any professional electrician, it is paramount to keep abreast of changing technologies and product features in order to ensure the correct and safe use of any type of tool. It might be a commitment that gets pushed down the jobs list, particularly for those who have been working in the industry for some time, but it is important to undertake regular training to avoid any risks. In fact, according to Health and Safety Executive (HSE), of the 142 people killed in work accidents in 2020/21, 39 worked in construction – and 14 fatalities were as a result of contact with moving machinery.
continue to keep their knowledge and safety practices up-to-date with training at regular intervals throughout their career. This is especially important when new tools or machines are added to their kit.
Why is regular training so important? The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 requires those who own or operate work equipment to receive adequate training to ensure their safety. It also stipulates that equipment must be maintained correctly and be safe for use. It is important for good health and safety practices to be established from the start of an electrician's career to ensure that they're safely using the tools from day one. Professionals should
Dust – the inhalation of harmful silica dust is a significant risk for electricians as it is generated from tasks including cutting, drilling and chasing. It can be easily breathed in and over time can lead to serious, long term (even life-threatening) diseases such as lung cancer, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and silicosis.
Some power tool manufacturers offer training programmes that cover these topics and more across short classroom and practical sessions. For example, Makita UK’s City & Guilds approved correct and safe use ‘Be Safe – Construction’ courses can be tailored to any particular trade discipline. The course, offered on an individual or group basis, provides training on best practices, how to select and safely handle/store power tools, health and safety considerations and PPE policies. It also includes a practical element where participants can get hands-on with the tools and technologies. Courses can also be tailored to meet individuals’ needs and can be delivered on-site or at one of Makita’s training centres across the UK.
Noise – all power tools produce noise and when used regularly and over extended periods, there is a significant risk of hearing damage, including permanent tinnitus.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MAKITA'S TRAINING OFFERING AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC014
What should the training cover? The nature of construction means that the working environment can present a number of potential hazards, which is why it is important to seek out comprehensive training programmes that cover what these dangers are and how to minimise the risks. As well as the safe use of individual tools and machines, professionals should also ensure they can identify and safely manage workplace dangers and risks including:
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PRODUCTS & BUSINESS SOLUTIONS
MISSING THE INTERLINKED? Andy Greenhorn, FireAngel’s Northern Regional Sales Manager for Scotland and Ireland, explores how interlinked systems can be utilised to achieve the highest standards of protection, and why they should be proactively installed not only throughout Scotland, but the entire United Kingdom.
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o start this article it's important to remind ourselves of the requirements of the new Scottish Tolerable Standard. The updated Tolerable Standard provides a dedicated framework that outlines the minimum requirement of fire, smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) protection for Scottish homes. Whilst private rented and new-build homes must already meet these standards, from February the legislation will apply to every home in Scotland, regardless of age or tenure. The
regulations also apply to the installation of new alarms, in addition to any existing alarms, which must be reviewed in accordance with the revised guidance. Under the new regulations, all properties must feature an interlinked fire and smoke alarm system that includes one smoke alarm installed in the room most frequently used for general living purposes, such as the living room, in addition to the installation of smoke alarms in every circulation space on each storey, including hallways and landings. A heat alarm should also be installed in each kitchen.
All smoke and heat alarms should be ceiling mounted and interlinked, whilst a CO alarm must also be installed in every room where there is a carbon-fuelled appliance, such as a boiler, fire or stove, to ensure adequate CO protection in the presence of a flue-burning appliance or flue. Both mains-powered and 10 year sealed long-life battery powered alarms are suitable, as long as they facilitate either hardwired or wireless interlinking. The mains-powered alarms must comply with a Grade D1 Specification, while the battery powered alarms must meet the requirements of a Grade F1 Specification.
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PRODUCTS & BUSINESS SOLUTIONS
Why does the standard stipulate interlinked alarms? Developed in response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the fire safety laws outlined within the Housing (Scotland) Act aim to significantly reduce deaths and casualties from fires throughout all types of residential properties, by providing individuals with increased levels of protection and the earliest possible warning of a fire. This can be successfully and cost effectively achieved by installing both mains-powered and battery powered devices throughout key locations, including lounges, bedrooms, kitchens and circulation areas, to create an interlinked fire and smoke system. By installing smoke, heat and CO alarms that feature Smart RF technology, electrical professionals can create a hybrid network that achieves the earliest possible warning of a fire or CO event, as by meshing multiple devices together, when one alarm sounds, they all sound, mimicking the chirp of the original smoke or CO alarm that has identified and detected the danger. This ability to mesh battery and mains-powered devices together not only complies with the key requirement of the Updated Tolerable Standard, but is particularly useful for projects where hardwiring isn’t feasible, as the network can be quickly extended wirelessly, whilst also offering the opportunity for additional safety products to be added to the system at a later date to meet any change in an individual’s requirements or level of risk. What type of alarms should you be recommending and installing? Under the new regulations, both mains-powered or 10 year sealed long-life battery powered alarms are suitable, as long as they facilitate either hardwired or wireless interlinking. The mains-powered alarms must comply with a Grade D1 Specification, while the battery powered alarms must meet the requirements of a Grade F1 Specification. By installing interlinked systems that adhere to an LD1 Category, electrical
engineers can achieve compliance with latest BS 5839-6 Standards, whilst also supporting the recommendations outlined within the Building Safety Bill 2021 and the Fire Safety Act 2021. This enables professionals to successfully future-proof residential installations to meet legislative updates before they come into force, by ensuring every type of property is protected to the highest possible standards. Devices such as FireAngel’s Specification Range of mains powered and battery powered smoke, heat and CO alarms aid installers in achieving an efficient approach to achieving compliance with the new Standard, as the suite of devices can be instantly interlinked together to form a hybrid network, simply by fitting a Smart RF Radio Module into each device. Are there any additional benefits of interlinked alarms? Yes, interlinked systems such as FireAngel Specification also offer the opportunity for the level of protection to be further increased, as by wirelessly meshing every device onto a private network, remote monitoring of the entire system can be achieved through the installation of a Connected Gateway, either upon initial installation or at a later date. This
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facilitates the transfer of data from every device in real time to a centralised dashboard, including the current status of every alarm, network health, alarm diagnostics and replacement dates. From an electrical contractor’s perspective, this enables them to document the completion of each installation phase, as information is instantly logged via the wireless network to validate the install. For example, 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. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT FIREANGEL'S RANGE OF INTERLINKED ALARMS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC015
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OPPORTUNITY (FORT) KNOCKS Having recently introduced a brand new range of security products to the market, ESP takes a look at the growing market for security solutions and explains why it's the 'Fort' that counts.
T
he Fort Smart Security range was officially launched in October and made its debut in front of contractors at ELEX in Sandown the following month, where it received an enthusiastic response from the trade. One of the main talking points among those contractors was the fact that the range operates under a single App which provides control for not just Fort Smart Security products but also the Click Smart+ range of connected home products from Scolmore.
A packed collection Fort is a comprehensive range of smart security products, which includes intruder
alarms, video doorbell, video security light, sensors and a selection of 1080p cameras. They all operate under a single App – the ‘Click Smart+’ App – which is subscription-free, with no additional fees incurred. By bringing the operation of the new Fort range under the tried and tested Click Smart+ App, users will have control of a raft of connected home and security products all from one secure, easy to access platform. The Fort Smart Security range has at its core accessibility and simplicity for both the installer and end user and has been designed to bring simple, smart solutions together for a safer and more comfortable home. It features
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contemporary styling and has been designed to be simple to install, maintain and use as well as providing a hassle-free security solution. Intruder alert At the heart of the Fort smart security range is the smart intruder alarm, which will support up to 32 RF devices and provide remote monitoring and alert notifications directly to the Click Smart+ App. The smart alarm is available in handy kits or can be purchased as separate devices for a tailor-made system. 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.
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Other kits offer an additional number of PIRs, door/window contacts and remote controls, plus there are two kits which include pet-friendly PIRs. All devices supplied within the kits are pre-registered to assist with a straightforward install. Hub culture The Wi-Fi Smart Alarm Hub includes an in-built siren, back-up battery with up to eight hours standby time and GSM back-up facility (SIM not included) for additional system security. The Hub is compatible with a range of battery powered RF devices that can be controlled to provide whole home security in and around a property. In addition, the Fort range includes Wi-Fi security devices such as a video doorbell, video security light and a
selection of 1080p cameras, all of which are supported on the same App and don't require any additional subscription fees other than a Wi-Fi connection. Accessories include remote keypad, pet friendly PIRs, vibration sensor and the option of a solar powered or wired external siren for an additional intruder deterrent. The range also includes a Smart Alarm Keypad which provides a central keypad that is usually positioned in entrances and hallways. The keypad requires the Smart Alarm Hub and provides users with arm, disarm, home mode and panic functions. Another highlight of the Fort portfolio is a range of security devices that does not require a hub. By connecting directly to Wi-Fi, the various devices add an additional layer of security to your property. The security devices include a video doorbell to monitor visitors, security flood lights with in-built cameras to deter intruders at night and a range of simple to use cameras for a range of applications, such as monitoring loved ones and pets or simply to provide
reassurance whilst monitoring your property. A key element to the Fort range is its subscription-free App. Unlike some systems on the market which will provide a free basic system, but charge for additional devices and functions, users of the Fort smart security system will have full access to all devices and functions with no subscription fee or hidden costs to pay. The App provides an easy-to-use platform to remotely arm and disarm the system, whilst producing real time events such as activations and low battery indication status. In addition, it supports a range of Click Smart+ home automation products which enables sockets and switches to be activated in certain system scenarios. Rapidly growing market The market for home security solutions has grown enormously in recent years, fuelled by the rapid development in new technology, as well as demand from end users for solutions to keep their families and properties secure. The Fort smart security range will challenge some of the operators in the marketplace. The fact that users can access and control all Fort smart security devices, as well as the Click Smart+ smart home devices, all under one easy to use and subscription-free App will make it an attractive proposition for installers and end users.
WATCH THE FORT SECURITY RANGE VIDEO AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC016 DOWNLOAD THE FORT A4 BROCHURE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC017
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PRIVATE EYES
Are you thinking of installing outdoor security for your customers? Just don't upset the neighbours, as Andy Douglas, Managing Director at Timeguard explains.
I
s the increasing affordability of low-cost smart doorbells with cameras leading to more disputes between neighbours? The short answer is not necessarily – as long as they're installed with due consideration. What people cannot and should not do is have a set-up that effectively puts their neighbours under continuous surveillance – but smarter installers can offer better solutions anyway.
A case in point In a recent case in Oxfordshire, a judge found in favour of a claimant who said she felt harassed by continual surveillance by a neighbour who had four devices
recording images and audio of her as she entered and left her own home, or used her own garden. Whether the surveillance was intentional or not, it was a sustained, continuous recording of someone else both entering and leaving and while on their own property. The court’s decision potentially led up to damages that would mean bankruptcy for the cameras’ owner. Of course, it’s quite hard to understand why common sense didn’t prevail before things went so far, but disputes between neighbours do often go nuclear. The law The use of surveillance technologies is governed by a range of measures. Some
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provide advice and guidance, like the government’s Surveillance Camera Code of Practice, which sets out principles for operators to follow. Others are legal requirements, such as the rules for collection and processing of personal data under the Data Protection Act 2018 and the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). These measures aim to ensure that any use of surveillance technologies is for legitimate purposes, proportionate, and compliant with relevant legal obligations. A key concern is that surveillance should, as far as possible, be with the informed consent of those being watched. As you would expect, purely “domestic use” of personal data by a private individual is exempted from the data protection legislation, for example your address book. But, it’s well established that home surveillance systems, including CCTV and smart doorbells, are subject to UK data protection legislation. If your cameras don’t capture images beyond the property boundary, the data protection laws won’t apply. If they do, such as a neighbours’ property or public streets and footpaths, then use of the system is subject to the data protection laws. Users can still capture images, but need to show they're doing it in ways that comply with the data protection laws and uphold the rights of the people whose images they are capturing. In short, they'll need to be able to explain why they think
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capturing the images is more important than invading the privacy of neighbours and passers-by.
credentials and enable users to keep recordings securely for just as long as they need them.
Playing by the rules Users recording beyond their own boundaries should put up signs saying that recording is taking place and why, and minimise the amount of footage caught, keeping it securely and deleting it as soon as it’s not needed. Audio should be disabled except when actually needed for conversation (some devices don’t allow you to do that!). So, in a dense urban situation, you may prefer to use a camera system you can angle and that is designed for purpose, to provide security and reassurance at the door rather than being a ‘catch all’. A good system will enable people to see who is there and to talk to them to check their
Go with the LEDPro Neatly fitting the bill, and a solution that professional installers can offer, is Timeguard’s LEDPro Camera that integrates a Wi-Fi camera and microphone within the LED PIR light switch and can be positioned to provide the right coverage. It really is an all-in-one solution, turning the automated LED floodlight into an enhanced Wi-Fi camera system that can be scheduled or automated to record only on detection of people. This gives people a clear view of who is outside, automatically illuminates them and provides for two-way audio communication to check who visitors are before actually opening the door.
GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE TIMEGUARD LEDPROCAM AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC018
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SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON DALI
A
ccording to Pål Karlsen, a research analyst for building technology with consultancy firm, Omdia, the market for smart lighting and connected controls is growing at a good speed and will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Looking ahead, he forecasts that open protocols such as DALI, Zigbee and Bluetooth will be the growth winners over the next few years in smart lighting and connected controls. He believes that future-proofing and a clear business case help reduce the risk of investment in smart lighting technologies. One of the approaches to future-proofing is to choose popular, open protocols with an ecosystem surrounding the technology, as a way of assuring the availability of substitute suppliers. Compared with analogue controls, “smart” requirements like colour-temperature tuning, individual fixture control and integration with various sensors has made digital controls, such as DALI-2, a necessity.
The origins of DALI Originating in the late 1990s, DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) is a bi-directional communications protocol that is used to provide control over, and
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communication between the components in a lighting system. DALI is addressable. This opens the way for many valuable features such as
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DALI'S KEY FEATURES ● It is an open protocol, so any
manufacturer can use it. ● With DALI-2 interoperability between
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With the market for smart lighting and connected controls projected to continue to grow again in 2022, Mike Collins, Sales Director at Ovia, answers some questions on the DALI protocol, described as the largest wired digital open protocol in the world for lighting. grouping, scene-setting and dynamic control, such as changing which sensors and switches control which light fittings in response to office layout changes. DALI is digital, not analogue. This means that DALI can offer much more precise light level control and more consistent dimming. DALI is a standard, so, for example, the dimming curve is standardised meaning that equipment is interoperable between manufacturers. The 1-10V dimming curve has never been standardised, so using different brands of drivers on the same dimming channel could produce some very inconsistent results. 1-10V can only control switching on/off and simple dimming. DALI can manage colour control, colour changing, emergency lighting testing and feedback, complex scene-setting and many other lighting-specific functions. How does DALI work? The core of DALI is a bus – a pair of wires that carries digital control signals from input devices (such as sensors) to an application controller. The application controller applies
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the rules with which it has been programmed to generate outgoing signals to devices such as LED drivers.
within it. For example, sensors often include a movement detector (PIR), a light-level detector and an infra-red receiver. These are called instances – the single device has 3 instances. With DALI-2 each instance can belong to a different control group and each can be addressed to control different lighting groups.
Bus power supply unit (PSU) This component is always required. It maintains the bus voltage at the required level. LED fittings All light fittings in a DALI installation require a DALI driver. A DALI driver can accept DALI commands directly from the DALI bus and respond accordingly. The drivers can be DALI or DALI-2 devices, but if they are not DALI-2 they will not have any of the new features introduced with this latest version, such as querying control gear failure, resending failed commands, or identifying devices. Input devices Sensors, switches etc. These communicate with the application controller using 24-bit data frames. They do not communicate directly with the control devices (DALI 2 only). Instances Often, a device such as a sensor will contain a number of separate devices
manufacturers is guaranteed by mandatory certification procedures. Installation is simple. Power and control lines can be laid together and no shielding is required. The wiring topology can be in the form of a star (hub & spoke), a tree or a line, or any combination of these. Communication is digital, not analogue, so the exact same dimming values can be received by multiple devices, resulting in very stable and precise dimming performance. All devices have their own unique address in the system, opening a very wide range of possibilities for flexible control. This also allows all devices to be individually monitored and maintained.
Control devices – application controller The application controller is the “brains” of the system. It receives 24-bit messages from the sensors (etc) and issues 16-bit commands to the control gear. The application controller also manages the data traffic on the DALI bus, checking for collisions and re-issuing commands as necessary. As a business, Ovia is continually developing products that incorporate the latest technology and our list of fittings that are compatible with the DALI protocol continues to be expanded. We recently introduced a DALI signal converter which will transform 0-10V/PWM dimmable light fittings, such as Ovia’s Hion highbays, to DALI dimmable light fittings. LEARN MORE ABOUT OVIA'S FULL LIGHTING RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC019
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With demand for workplace-based electric vehicle (EV) charging on the increase, vehicle charging specialist CTEK explains the benefits of dual socket chargers, and how ‘doubling up’ can work for businesses and installers alike.
THE DUAL IN THE CROWN
W
“
ith a dual socket charger, two vehicles can plug into the same unit to charge at the same time,” explains Peter Görtzen, Director of Wholesale EMEA at CTEK. “This is great for installers because installation is quicker and ongoing maintenance is halved. It also halves the number of physical units needed, meaning less space is used, and costs are reduced considerably.”
Taking the hassle away To help its customers make the most of the grants available, CTEK has partnered with Jumptech, a company that takes the hassle out of the EV installation process by managing the whole process of applying for a WCS grant on behalf of its clients. Peter adds: “Fitting a dual socket charger makes sound financial sense – not just because of the grant, but also because it can cost more than double the amount to retrofit a second charger than for an upfront installation. “So, even if clients only need charging for one electric vehicle right now, it makes
sense for them to think ahead, as they’ll very likely need more charging points as the growth in electric motoring continues.” Open for business To make sure an EV charging installation is future-proofed, CTEK recommends choosing a charger that is OCPP (open charge point protocol) compliant. Peter says: “OCPP allows you and your client to seamlessly integrate your charger with third party equipment and software, so you have maximum flexibility and can take advantage of new products and applications coming onto the market. “It also means you can add more chargers to your client’s network as demand grows, with minimum hassle and without needing to upgrade the system.” Cook up a storm The CTEK Chargestorm Connected 2 (CC2) is one of the only dual socket chargers on the market. It is fully scalable, from a single unit to a charging network of up to 500, and is fully OCPP compliant. It can deliver from 3.7kW to 22kW AC charging with single or
three phase power and can be wall or pole mounted. You can even mount two dual socket CC2s back-to-back on a single pole, allowing four EVs to plug in and charge at the same time, with one easy installation. The CTEK brand is synonymous with quality, highly trusted vehicle charging solutions the world over. The Swedish company invests some €4m a year in R&D, with a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) Centre of Excellence near Stockholm. VIEW THE CTEK CHARGESTORM CONNECTED 2 PRODUCT SHEET AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC020
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AN INSPECTION CALLS Pete 'Monty' Monfort, Proprietor at Monty Electrics and Director at Arena Training Centre, gets stuck into some bedtime reading this month as he reviews the NAPIT Guide to Initial Verification and Periodic Inspection & Testing of Electrical Installations.
I
've always been a bit of a book worm, so I was really pleased to be able to get hold of a copy of the latest NAPIT publication and lose myself in it for a few hours. Inspection and testing is something that features a lot in both my roles on the tools and delivering training, so I also felt it would give me a chance to have some time to think and reflect upon my own practice.
Tremendous pedigree As with the other publications that NAPIT has released in recent times, the book is robust and full of colour-coded sections with clear diagrams and pictures that make it easy to navigate and read. The pedigree of the authors is flawless as Richard Townsend and Paul Chaffers both have a wealth of experience in this sector. The book begins with an overview of health and safety – a particularly important topic given that the UK continues to experience fatalities in the workplace due to
workers coming into contact with live conductors. As it is easy to become blasé about the risks we face every day, it was also good to see the book highlight the ESR initiative that classifies electricians' lock-off kits as PPE. In addition, the chapter also explores the relationship between the building regulations and the work done by electrical installation inspectors. Chapter 2 serves as a useful reminder that those undertaking electrical inspections must be familiar with BS7671. This is an important message because far too many electricians struggle to make judgements that are underpinned by a working knowledge of the ‘regs’. Chapter 3 covers supply and protective equipment. It addresses the overcurrent protection of RCCBs and main switches, as a result of the application of Regulation 536.4.3.2. This regulation is often misunderstood but there is a concise explanation of how to comply. There is also a useful summary on the selection of the types of RCDs that are now available. Chapter 4 looks at safe isolation. It is important for all electricians to understand this process, but another area that often causes confusion relates to the disconnection of the neutral in three phase systems, so this section discusses when/how this should be done. Chapter 5 focuses on testing equipment, and I recommend that readers take a look at the section on thermal evaluation equipment, which is still not a common tool in inspectors’ arsenals of tests. Chapter 6 discusses the standard sequence of tests. A commonly asked question is addressed and explains how
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an inspector can determine whether or not a piece of metal is extraneous and needs bonding. It also explains clearly how an inspector can verify volt drop as part of the test sequence. In chapters 7 and 8 we discuss the inspection schedule that is part of the EIC and EICR. Chapter 7 is a particularly useful chapter because it describes what checks should be performed. Meanwhile, chapter 8 gives a good view of how periodic inspections should be conducted, in terms of sampling. In conclusion, unless you are a very experienced inspector, I believe this book would be a very valuable addition to any library of resources. The pictures show clear guidance and there are a lot of helpful comments and examples provided throughout. FIND OUT HOW TO ORDER A COPY OF THE PUBLICATION AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC021
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GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT C-TEC’S PRODUCTS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC044
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THE ONES TO WATCH IN 2022 There's some exciting new brands, products and launches in the pipeline for this coming year. Here we take a look at some of the 'ones to watch' that are set to make a splash for electrical professionals in 2022.
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e're no strangers to the proverb ‘necessity is the mother of invention’, in fact, most of us have experienced or at least witnessed inventions and developments out of sheer necessity. One such story comes from a third generation family owned business called Hensel. In the sleepy town of Lennestadt, Germany, Hensel designed and built the Feed in the SWA, using an appropriate gland
READERLINK 000
Terminate the cables and PE bridge connector
A REVOLUTION IN SWA CONNECTIONS
first plastic junction box to overcome hazardous and hostile installation environments. Inspired by its earlier success, Hensel is once more rising to the challenge this year by designing a new junction box with metal inlay, saving time and money for installers. We're all aware of the tedious task of terminating SWA cable into a plastic junction box, typically using SWA connector plates (that is if we remember to order and collect them from the wholesalers in the first place.) In fact, how often do such things come to mind when we're half way up the ladder? Hensel’s new ‘PE-Inlay’ is an innovative product which has a metal inlay, allowing SWA to be connected without the need of additional plates and earthing banjos,
Use the bracket or fix direct
Close the lid
reducing the overall installation time by up to 60%. The dome shaped junction box comes in various sizes and IP ratings, from IP66 to IP69.
WATCH A DEMO VIDEO OF THE PRODUCT AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC022
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CHARGE UP YOUR EV INSTALLATION BUSINESS THIS YEAR
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stablished in 2016, Sevadis (originally known as SmartEV) has built a reputation in electric vehicle (EV) technology – developing, supplying and installing charging points for residential, commercial, retail and leisure developments as well as for EV fleet infrastructure. This year the company plans to make even bigger strides with electricians and contractors as part of a significant marketing push and campaign. In addition to its wide range of charging solutions, the company also has Sevadis Cloud, an online management platform to manage, track and bill electricity used at charging points. Sevadis offers full support for installers throughout a project, with expert guidance on everything from design and
“WE BELIEVE THE MARKET FOR EV IS NOW AT A TIPPING POINT AND THERE WILL BE SO MANY OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL OF US IN THE FUTURE!”
specification to installation, including free site surveys where required. The company’s expert team responds to all enquiries within 24 hours to ensure quotes are supplied efficiently. Sevadis can also provide full product training on every charging solution in its growing portfolio to help installers deliver best practice service to customers. The market is expanding rapidly with a mix of government policy and growing environmental awareness accelerating the uptake of electric vehicles. According to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), in September 2021, the combined sales of battery EVs (BEV) and plug-in hybrid EVs (PHEV) accounted for 22% of all cars registered. Finally, Sevadis understands the importance of developing an integrated nationwide network. That’s why all its chargers, as well as the Sevadis Cloud platform, have been designed to Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) standards to allow use with different compatible software and hardware, providing
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greater choice and flexibility for customers. A significant addition to the portfolio this year will see the launch of the MaxiCharger unit – a great new product that is easy and efficient to install, offers simple software set-up and includes functions and features that prove Sevadis really does take on board key feedback from installers to produce solutions that will help them succeed in this growing marketplace. We'll have more details on the MaxiCharger launch in a future issue of PE. If you're a fan of Championship football you'll also see the brand featured on perimeter advertising during key Sky EFL Championship coverage throughout the year, helping to drive consumer awareness and interest and further increasing the opportunities for electrical installers and contractors. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT SEVADIS AND ITS EV CHARGING PRODUCT RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC023
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MILA GOES WITH THE ‘PROS’ IN 2022
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wiss-based technology specialist Mila is expanding operations in the UK in 2022, onboarding 5,000 licensed electricians to serve as Mila Pros. Mila boasts over 10,000 technicians who’ve performed over 200,000 services, operating in Switzerland, Germany, France, Austria, and the UK. If you’re a solo operation or looking to fill employee schedules, Mila could be what jump-starts your business to meet your revenue goals for 2022. Mila Pros have access to incentive and bonus programmes for major brands including, Amazon Key for Business, Amazon Home Services, Google Nest, Ring, NETGEAR, Logitech, Netatmo, InfoGrid, and Lightwave. Why Mila? Electrical contractors are bombarded with major brand incentive programmes throughout the year. But, who has time to sort through the offers, and who wants the headache of tracking down unpaid compensation? How does it work? Mila’s App-based system allows Mila Pros to quickly search and book appointments. The company introduced its Express Service in 2021, allowing customers to book appointments for service calls in as little as one hour and up to six hours for an expedited fee, which means no more lost revenue from cancellations. Additionally, the Mila Academy’s online training and certification for all of Mila’s brand partners translate to new skills and more opportunities. Market opportunity With the UK leading adoption rates outside of the U.S., there is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to cash in on the smart device boom and jumpstart your business for 2022.
Chris Viatte, CEO and founder of Mila, believes licensed electricians will be at the forefront of driving smart home adoption in the UK, stating: “Licensed professionals are also a trusted source for residential and commercial customers for sales consultations of major brands. “Their experience places them in a unique position with an ability to evaluate each customer’s situation and make the best recommendations, especially with
interoperability issues.” He adds: “Brands are launching programmes with installation bonuses and sales incentives. “Many of these incentive programmes can be lucrative for an electrical business – there are no acquisition costs, payment is guaranteed, and scheduling is flexible to ensure established customer accounts are not impacted.”
ADVANTAGES OF BECOMING A MILA PRO ● Easy access to all partner brand
incentive programmes ● No obligation to accept a minimum
number of jobs or work a certain number of hours. ● Each Mila Pro decides the time,
location, and service they want to accept ● Invoicing is handled by Mila with
regular monthly disbursements GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT BECOMING A MILA PRO AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC024
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SHAKING UP THE PROCESS OF HIRING TALENT AND FINDING WORK
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isruptive, innovative and affordable'. That’s how the founders of fledgling business, The Hiring Portal (hipo), describe their alternative solution to using recruitment agencies. Limiting, and for some, potentially eradicating their use altogether. Focusing on construction, facilities management, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire, security, networks, and communications, The Hiring Portal is an all-in-one job board, recruitment platform, and sourcing tool that is set to shake up the way companies source and hire talent, and how job seekers and subcontractors find work. In addition to growing your workforce, the platform also provides a means to expand your supply chain, by making it
easy for businesses to advertise ‘projects & tenders’ that you wouldn’t normally find on any of the usual tender portals. Free to advertise, free to apply. Again, all direct. As well as reducing costs (and losses) when hiring, we also want to help businesses attract the next generation of skilled workers. To do this, you need to go where they hang out’. The way people were hired 20 years ago is nothing like it is today. Younger applicants expect jobs to appear in a medium they’re familiar with and social media use is part of their routine. Businesses need to utilise these sites or find themselves left behind. For this reason, The Hiring Portal will simplify social media marketing for businesses, providing an opportunity for brands to target passive and active
candidates that wouldn’t normally be found on job boards. Whether recruiting, or looking for work, hipo aims to be the ‘go to’ place for business owners, hiring managers, and HR teams to advertise vacancies, and for subcontractors and job seekers to apply. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE HIRING PORTAL AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC025
BUILT FROM TOUGH STUFF!
N
ever a company to do things by halves, ToughBuilt looks set to build on its success in spectacular style in 2022. The US manufacturer of Sawhorses, Knee Pads, Tool Bags, Totes, Hand Tools and Stands launched in Europe in 2019 and has sustained explosive growth over the last two years. Right from the get-go, the manufacturer was able to offer electricians revolutionary products designed and engineered by trade professionals for trade
professionals. The business’ strapline ‘We Don’t Build Ordinary’ is truly reflected in its unique range of products. These products include the ClipTech system of tool belts and pouches. A highly flexible and modular solution, ClipTech allows users to add or remove a choice of over 30 pouches to their tool belt in seconds and with the complete peace of mind of knowing that once a pouch is attached, it will stay firmly in place. ToughBuilt’s range has also seen regular additions as the business focuses on innovation and new product development. In October 2021, the brand launched a world-first in the form of its Scraper Utility Knife. This two-in-one tool can be used as a knife to cut all manner of materials or as a scraper to remove paint, sealants, adhesives and other substances from surfaces like windows, mirrors and tiles. Plus switching between these two
54 January 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN
functions is as simple as pushing a button. New launches for this year will feature ground-breaking technology and patent-pending innovation, with plans to launch another knife that rivals its Scraper Utility Knife for cutting-edge thinking, as well as numerous other work support and hand tools, in the first and second quarter of 2022. If past performance is anything to go by, you can be sure that whatever ToughBuilt has in store, it’s going to be impressive. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE TOUGHBUILT RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC026
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PRIZE DRAW
W IN
WIN A PAIR OF APPLE AIRPODS!
Elkay is offering one lucky reader the chance to win this great prize.
i
f you want to start saving energy and limiting the price rises in electricity costs for your customers in 2022, then look no further than Elkay energy saving switches and controls. The Elkay brand offers an impressive range of energy saving products such as indoor and outdoor push button, touch and PIR time delay switches with an IP66 rating up to 16A and a range of ceiling mount PIR and microwave motion detectors. A six-year warranty is offered on selected products and the ability to switch up to 16A (3680W) on all load types. Based in Belfast and without the Brexit red tape that many are suffering, Elkay offers an unrivalled service across both the UK and Europe.
Happy snapping! Another way of getting your hands on these awesome Apple Airpods is through Elkay's regular picture competition where entrants are invited to share a picture of an Elkay product they've recently installed. Get more details at: https://elkay.co.uk/win-apple-airpods-with-elkay/ and don't forget to tag Elkay in @elkayenergy
HOW TO ENTER TO ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW TO WIN A PAIR OF APPLE AIRPODS, COURTESY OF ELKAY, SIMPLY FILL OUT THE CONTACT FORM AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC027 Deadline for entries: 10/02/2022. Usual T&Cs apply.
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Products IN PRACTICE
Rail depot turns to Legrand for trunking needs Northern’s largest rail depot at Newton Heath has recently undergone a complete renovation to increase the maintenance capacity for the region. The building has been designed to facilitate the efficient maintenance of the fleet of brand-new trains to improve reliability, and ensure punctuality as demand on the rail network increases. Four 130-metre-long inspection pits, which required power and lighting, were crucial for the work on the underside of the trains. As part of the £20m revamp, M&E contractors, JPR Group, were tasked with selecting and installing a cable management solution capable of withstanding the harsh working environment in these pits. Trunking was set to be installed into the four pits to deliver cabling for power and lighting. Risk of corrosion and potential damage from water, in addition to debris ingress into the cable runs, is increased in this working environment. Therefore, an IP4X standard pre-galvanised trunking system was deemed not robust enough to cope with the challenging environment. The chosen solution would need to withstand wear and tear associated with being near the train maintenance works, ensuring safety is upheld and operations run smoothly. With tight time schedules and these exacting ingress and corrosion requirements, JPR Group selected Legrand’s quick to install and regulation compliant Salamandre IP55 trunking. With IP55 ingress protection, the solution is designed to be faster to install and meets the requirement for a robust system capable of withstanding the challenging heavy industrial environment. Given the critical nature of a rail depot in keeping trains in the region on schedule, the cable management installation needed to be completed as quickly as possible. However, JPR Group faced an unexpected challenge. The routes for the inspection pits had changed slightly from the initial specification, and so the trunking runs had to adapt to fit the new routes. This meant more bespoke bends had to be made by Legrand to fit the new contours of the pits and be delivered to site. Because of this delay, there was potential for wider disruptions to work schedules for the entire renovation. Though this held up proceedings, Legrand was able to supply the bespoke elements as planned. Thanks to the speed afforded by the system, JPR could complete the installation by December 2020, ahead of the opening in April 2021. With rail industry applications like this, there is elevated risk of corrosion and ingress of substances into cable management systems. Debris and water from the external forces, as well as 56 January 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN
corrosive oils and compounds from the trains themselves all contribute to potential damage to the cable management runs. Any damage to the trunking could result in potentially dangerous exposed cabling. After a discussion at the site with Islam Mohammed, Area Sales Manager at Legrand UK’s Cable Management business unit, JPR group decided that Legrand’s latest range of Salamandre IP55 trunking would be the best solution to withstand the working environment. Faced with difficult installation requirements, JPR Group were able to comply with regulations in the rail environment with Legrand’s quick to install solution. Despite changes after work had begun in the specification of the inspection pit areas, the faster by design system could still be delivered without holding up the rest of the work on-site. GET MORE DETAILS ON LEGRAND'S IP55 RATED CABLE MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC028
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sponsored by www.electricalcharity.org
Vortice supplies ventilation systems to Lawford Green Nursery It is no secret that Early Years Education (0-5 years) plays a key role in childrens’ brain development and can hugely impact their first learning experiences. This in turn can deeply affect their future cognitive, emotional and social development. One important factor in Early Years Education is the environment in which the children learn, including lighting, heating and ventilation. Paul Willey from Rose Builders worked alongside Vortice to support Lawford Green Nursery in providing a ventilation solution for its classrooms. Vortice Area Business Manager, Darren Clare, worked alongside Mark Coutts at TH Electrical to listen carefully to the brief and specified the VORT NRG heat recovery units as a solution. The void mounted heat recovery units extract from one side of the classroom and constantly supply fresh filtered air to the other in order to create a constant air path through the space. The
units guarantee high levels of efficiency and heat exchange with reduced energy consumption and are available in vertical or horizontal versions. They also boast high acoustic insulation so they won’t disrupt or distract the occupants within the classrooms. Vortice also specified CO2 monitors and higher grade filtration to aid the reduction of carbon monoxide within the classroom. Marketing Manager, Jennifer Quinn, said: “At Vortice we believe that creating the ideal healthy learning environment can make a big difference. Studies have shown that good indoor air quality can improve concentration, development and alleviate health issues in teachers and children.” GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE VORTICE RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC029
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Products round up
CED ELECTRICAL Airmaster Panel Heaters
SNICKERS WORKWEAR Baselayer Underwear
The Airmaster Heating range is taking a major step forward with the launch of both remote control and smart Wi-Fi enabled ranges. New 1500kw and 1800kw aluminium heaters finished in white, operate by remote control with LCD displays. Free standing or wall mounted, these panel heaters have 24hour/weekly timers plus two heat settings. But, really taking Airmaster into the 21st century, are three new smart Wi-Fi enabled panel heaters. This free-standing range includes 1.5kw and 2kw white powder coated steel products plus the ultimate 2kw heater in impact resistant black glass on a steel body. Digitally controlled via the TUYA App, all smart heaters have two heat settings. adjustable thermostats, overheat protection and 24hr/weekly timers. They're backed with a two-year guarantee.
The Snickers Workwear Baselayer clothing for trade professionals uses high-tech breathable fabrics for ventilation and body moisture transport for sustainable warmth and comfort. The Base-, Mid- and Toplayer clothing combines to keep you working dry, warm and comfortable wherever you are on-site. With sustainability at the forefront of Snickers Workwear’s clothing philosophy, garments are available in recycled polyester and merino wool as well as the 37.5 technology ventilating fabric to suit different types of work in a variety of cold and wet weather conditions. The cutting-edge AllroundWork, FLEXIWork and LITEwork designs and fabrics will keep you warm and dry – so you won’t get cold, wet and shiver. All the garments are made from quick drying fabrics that come with special ventilation features to control and regulate the heat from your body. GET MORE RANGE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC031
KNIGHTSBRIDGE Shaver Light Meeting the demand for charging points in the house, Knightsbridge has designed its latest shaver light with a concealed dual USB charger as well as an integral dual voltage shaver socket. Displaying elegant curves to complement modern bathroom tastes, the SL6USB LED shaver light is available in three finishes: chrome, white and matt black. Constructed from robust polycarbonate, this 230V 6W shaver light is easy to clean and produces a warm white light and is rated to IP20. It complements the SLULED, a 230V LED shaver/shelf light with a USB port and a single voltage shaver socket. The glass shelf can support loads of up to 2kg for the usual shaving paraphernalia (plus your smartphone whilst it’s set to charge), while the unit itself has a polished chrome finish and an opal diffuser. And, if no USB is required, Knightsbridge offers the SLIGHT2, a white polycarbonate LED shaver light with a dual voltage socket, covering all the essentials.
GET MORE RANGE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC030
VIEW THE KNIGHTSBRIDGE BATHROOM RANGE E-BROCHURE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC032
XCITE Exit Box S A new emergency lighting solution from xcite LED Lighting, Exit Box S offers reduced maintenance and high-performance emergency lighting, with a slimline appearance to provide a discreet but effective look. With the Exit Box S, contractors and tradesmen can fit modern, slimline (only 30mm depth) emergency lighting, compliant to all the most recent standards – supplied with the EURO4 running man legend. Ideal for retrofit of existing T5 fixtures or completely new applications, the unit comes with a dual LED array for internal illumination and downward distribution – providing great levels of visibility for any emergency lighting installation. With a rear BESA fix and three additional rear fixing points, this module offers safety, security, and reliability. The Exit Box S is also built with a hinged front lid for easy installation and an underside test switch for easy testing. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC033
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Ovia releases third lighting catalogue At over 400 pages, the new Ovia catalogue boasts an additional 100 pages on the previous edition and will bring to designers, contractors and specifiers a comprehensive product guide covering the entire range on offer. With the aim of filling any gaps in its portfolio and in response to direct feedback Ovia has had from contractors, the company has added new and improved products to existing categories and introduced some new categories. There are new additions to the domestic, amenity, commercial and utility ranges and Ovia has expanded its floodlighting range to include two new product categories – LED wall packs and LED street lighting. A dedicated Ovia lighting design service is also available, giving contractors access to free lighting design schemes for their commercial projects. The aim of the free service is to provide expertise in choosing the right products and solutions to create a scheme that meets all the requirements and objectives of the project in question, and that is compliant with all the relevant regulations and standards. With all the information gathered, including drawings and specifications, a Lighting Design Proposal will be prepared. A schedule of lighting and lighting controls will be shared with the Ovia internal and external sales team who will prepare a quotation. The Lighting Design Proposal and prepared quotation will be sent back to the Ovia sales team member, and the quote will then either go through the wholesaler of choice, or the enquiry will be directed through one of Ovia’s supporting Elite stockists. If drawings are not available, site surveys are available through Ovia's external sales team.
VIEW OR DOWNLOAD THE OVIA ISSUE 3 CATALOGUE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC034
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Products round up
Electric radiators for all your electric heating needs Electrorad has been manufacturing and supplying electric radiators for over 18 years and has a reputation built on trust and quality. All radiators in the range are Lot 20 compliant and have additional energy saving features such as: ● ● ● ●
Built-in time and temperature control Geolocation function Open window sensing Intelligent controls – a self learning system that learns your home requirements for heating efficiently ● Built in energy monitors Each range offers something a little extra, including Electrorad's Made in Britain DigiLine range which has over 20 different sizes available. It has a highly intelligent built in control and, by adding the TouchE3 smart touchscreen hub, you can not only control your home heating system internally, but, if you simply link it to the internet, you can control your radiators from anywhere in the world using its clever App. The Aeroflow range offers the very best in German design. Housed within its classic exterior are high heat retaining fire clay panels ensuring perfectly even heat distribution. It can be linked easily to the internet via a gateway and can then also
be controlled via Alexa. All this and it’s also backed by a 30-year guarantee. Or perhaps the Vanguard+ range is the one for you. This sleek, modern aluminium designed electric radiator can start warming the property based on your proximity using its Geolocation function. Add to that the fact that it can also be voice controlled with the use of its App and you have one very smart electric radiator. From ensuring its electric radiators are up-to-date and compliant in the
60 January 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN
marketplace, to having a friendly, technically savvy team available to support you, Electrorad will work with you to ensure you have everything you need to fulfil you and your customers' heating requirements. VIEW THE ELECTRORAD ELECTRIC RADIATOR PRODUCT CATALOGUE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC035
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MEGGER Non-contact Voltage Detectors The new pen-style VF5 and VF6 non-contact voltage detectors from Megger not only provide visual and audible indications when AC voltages are present, they also vibrate. This is particularly useful when the detectors are used in noisy or brightly lit environments. A little bigger than an ordinary pen, these handy devices have a CAT IV 1000 V safety rating, which makes them suitable for use on all parts of LV installations. They also have an IP67 ingress protection rating which means they can be used outdoors and in damp environments. The new voltage detectors have two operating ranges – 12 V to 1,000 V and 100 V to 1,000 V – and feature a convenient built-in bright-white LED torch and LED working light at the tip. Typical applications include identifying live conductors, locating breaks in wiring, checking for blown fuses and detecting AC voltages at socket outlets, switches, luminaires and other locations in electrical installations. The VF5 version is intended for general use while the VF6 offers the same functions but carries ATEX approval and can be used in hazardous environments. Both voltage detectors are powered by standard AAA batteries, and their low power consumption means that the batteries have a long life, even when the torch function is used regularly. VIEW A PRODUCT DATA SHEET AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC036
LUCECO Lighting Specifier Catalogue The Luceco Lighting Specifier catalogue features brand new energy saving, innovative luminaires as well as updates on the most popular fittings with insightful product information, all organised into easy-to-navigate colour-coded sections to ensure ease of specification. Highlights include: Sigma – an installer friendly, direct indirect recessed luminaire for low glare applications to assist with LG7 compliant designs; Callisto – a linear LED surface mounted luminaire with IK10 rating that can be used in semi industrial applications as well recreational and sports facilities, offering both wide and narrow optical light distribution; Luceco Platform Wireless Lighting Controls – transforming existing lighting installations, creating simple and efficient wireless communication systems for dimming, scene setting, presence and daylight control; Luceco Elevate Wireless Lighting Controls – offering a function rich system, including energy and emergency lighting reports and asset tracking. VIEW AND DOWNLOAD THE CATALOGUE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC037
ESP New Catalogue ESP has released the latest update to its comprehensive product catalogue, bringing together all products from its extensive portfolio in one, easy to access reference guide. This latest edition features a raft of new additions across the company’s portfolio, including the recently launched Fort Smart Security range. Available to download from the ESP website, the new 232-page catalogue is more than twice the size of the previous edition and provides wholesalers, contractors and specifiers with a valuable resource to help them locate the right products and solutions for a variety of projects. The catalogue is divided into seven main product categories – Smart Security, CCTV, Access Control, Fire Protection, Emergency Lighting, Essentials and Sangamo. VIEW AND DOWNLOAD THE CATALOGUE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC038
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Products round up
Safe and speedy power distribution solutions
Amid the increased construction demand and tight deadlines facing electrical contractors, Legrand UK & Ireland has upgraded its range of busbars and tap-off boxes to offer a wider choice of power distribution solutions that save time on installation. For those working on projects with varying power requirements, the new Zucchini XCP range is designed to fit all budgets and power requirements across multi-occupancy residential, commercial and industrial applications. As UK construction grows at the fastest pace in 24 years, there is more pressure than ever on contractors to complete projects on time and on budget. With sectors such as warehouse construction experiencing investment 54% higher in 2021 compared to 2018 according to Knight Frank, Paul Martin, Lead Marketing Manager for Legrand’s Power Distribution business unit, believes that M&E solutions must support contractors with these challenges. He says: “The pressure facing contractors to deliver projects means there is little room for error when installing electrical systems. A particular example of this has been seen in the warehouse construction sector, which has seen a boom in conjunction with the rise in e-commerce over the past year. “Along with requirements for time saving, there is an expectation that safety will be prioritised across all installations in any application. To help contractors with these pressures, we have designed the new XCP range to ensure correct installation
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can be quickly carried out first time, while remaining cost effective and avoiding the need to replace or reinstall.” To support contractors in promoting safety while speeding up installation, the range is quick to install and can be visually inspected for correct connections due to the shear off bolt connections. This can reduce the risk of bad connections which cause over-heating problems. The XCP range is also available with a two-times rated neutral phase conductor option, helping to mitigate the addition of electronic devices into a building. This option helps contractors ensure the system keeps up with any changes in electrical demand and does not overheat due to electrical imbalances. As contractors working on a range of applications require different levels of specification, the XCP range includes an XCP-S (Standard) busbar in addition to an XCP-HP (High Performance) counterpart. Along with this, there is a comprehensive selection of plastic and metal tap-off boxes available, rated 25-250A and 63-630A respectively. Paul adds: “With power requirements differing greatly, this range has been created to keep projects within budget. Along with the safety measures, we hope the cost-effective choice of quick-to-install solutions will support contractors with deadlines, budgets and safety concerns for any project size.” GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE XCP RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC039
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RESIDEO Total Connect Box Security System
TUNGSRAM Highbay Range Whether you’re using a ladder or scissor lift, mounting heavy luminaires above your head is difficult. The new Highbays from Tungsram are extremely lightweight when compared to the light output. Up to 60K lumens can be produced from a single fixture coming in at less than 5kg. These highbays have all unnecessary weight stripped out whilst maintaining the required amount of heat dissipation to ensure a long life. With energy savings at the top of most customer’s agendas, the expectation is that lighting is switched on only when needed. The Auriso and Duros models have on-board sensors that control lighting based on motion (SN), daylight harvesting and motion sensing (RFM) or simply on/off (RFS). These features avoid electricians having to install secondary sensors, saving time and money. Typically, brackets are an add-on accessory that can be forgotten when ordering. Highbays will often turn up on-site and there is no way to mount them. The Duros and Auriso have brackets built into the fixture to help this process. If suspension is required, Y-cables or pendant mounting options are also available. Other key features include: power consumption range of 64-430W; luminous flux - from 10 to 60 klm in 5 klm steps; 135-161 lm/W efficacy; 3000K, 4000K and 5000K colour temperature range; -30 to +50ºC temperature range. VIEW THE LATEST TUNGSRAM E-CATALOGUE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC040
The Total Connect Box home security solution is subscription free and available in three different kit variations to accommodate all installations, dependent on the customer needs. It provides installers and homeowners with a wireless home security system that's straightforward for the professional installer to fit and maintain, and simple for homeowners to monitor and operate. Key features include: integrated wireless security system with built-in IP & GPRS; Email, SMS and push & voice notifications; free smartphone application; works with Total Connect Pro Manager installation and maintenance support systems; two-way 868MHz radio covering up to 2,000 meters in open field; up to 32 wireless peripherals per installation; transmission of images captured by CAMIR-F1 detectors. GET MORE PRODUCT DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC041
SOLID GEAR Revolution 2 GTX Safety Trainer Solid Gear’s fastest safety shoe is designed for performance and safety to keep you going for longer at work. The GTX’s hi-tech, lightweight construction is a giant leap forward from the look and feel of ordinary safety shoes. It combines a high-performance blend of ergonomic design, athletic comfort and S3 protection. The waterproof GORE-TEX upper delivers constant dryness while the locking drawstring ensures the shoe fits like a glove. Combined with its E-TPU midsole and the ‘bounce back’ technology, foot and knee fatigue after a hard day’s work could be a thing of the past. GET MORE PRODUCT DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC042
UNILITE WCHT5 Headtorch Unilite is continuing to innovate in 2022 with the brand new WCHT5. As part of Unilite's integration of wireless charging technology, it is introducing its first wireless charging headtorch for specialised professionals. The WCHT5 is designed with super tough polycarbonate construction and an adjustable, silicone lined headband, making it perfect for comfort and mobility. The unit has an ultra bright 550 Lumen COB LED and an additional 450 Lumen spot beam CREE LED, reaching an impressive beam distance of 84m. The WCHT5 also features a memory switch that remembers the last lighting mode that was used. With a powerful 3.7V 1500mAh Li-polymer rechargeable battery, the WCHT5 is capable of a fast three-hour charge time and 4-21 hour run time. This product can be conveniently charged using the Unilite wireless charging pads (WCSGL or WCDBL) and features a handy red-green charging indicator. GET MORE PRODUCT DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAC043
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CAUGHT ON
C A M E R A SOCIAL SNAPS!
KEVIN HEY: This earth wire went straight to the incoming main before the fuse...!!
SIVETER85: I was doing a consumer unit upgrade and found (what I thought was) a wasp nest in the back of the old board. I noticed what looked like a loose cable sticking out of the bottom of the busbar and it turned out to be a rat's tail. There were two rats melted together – one touching the neutral bar and one the earth bar!
MAHMOOD HASSAN: I saw this on a recent inspection so asked the owner to call the chap who did it and put me on the phone to him. I asked where the earth was, and he told me it was the screw!! I then asked him what kind of earthing system it was and his answer was 'screw in brick, brick connected to earth innit'. Maybe the IET will consider it for the 19th Edition?!
CARL SMITH: This chap said he was qualified! So much so that he took a grinder to the back boxes instead of using knockouts. No threads available for the blank plates!
64 January 2022 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN
JOSH ROBINSON: How's this for a last job on a Friday?
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MR WITTE: We were installing some landlord area LED lighting and found this at the origin of supply...!
STEVE HOWES: Nice blue live conductor on this one...!
DAN ROB ELECTRICAL: It appears that someone's taken a bite out of an MCB!
And one to be proud of from SEEN SERVICES....
JACK OSCAR EVANS: Found this beauty on an EICR and immediately informed UKPN. Apparently it was done by the network a couple of years ago...
A recent 11,818 ft2 warehouse and office project. Great to see the 3 phase distribution boards being installed and terminated on our smoked salmon production warehouse project!
Get your regular fix of CAUGHT ON CAMERA! PE’s website includes weekly Caught on Camera ‘Exclusives’, featuring the best (and worst) of the shocking snaps that readers have posted to our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages. Don’t forget to tag us in on your posts, or DM us your pictures and caption directly and you may just see your pictures featured on these pages or our website.
PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN January 2022 65
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ADVERTISER INDEX Here is a useful summary of all the adverts that appear in this issue of Professional Electrician. Each is listed with its page number and a direct URL that will get you straight to the relevant online information.
Back Box Repair Clip........................................ Page 55
Lightwave............................................................. Page 25
www.rdr.link/EAC100
www.rdr.link/EAC116
Carl Kammerling International Ltd............... Page 57
Linkcharging Technology Company Ltd.... Page 50
www.rdr.link/EAC101
www.rdr.link/EAC117
Castline Systems ............................................... Page 59
Live Electrical Distribution UK Ltd.................. Page 6
www.rdr.link/EAC102
www.rdr.link/EAC118
CED ........................................................................ Page 50
Megger Ltd............................................................ Page 18
www.rdr.link/EAC103
www.rdr.link/EAC119
CHAUVIN ARNOUX UK Ltd ........................... Page 46
Metrel UK Ltd....................................................... Page 15
www.rdr.link/EAC104
www.rdr.link/EAC120
Consort Equipment Products Ltd................. Page 59
NICEIC & ELECSA .............................................. Page 46
www.rdr.link/EAC105
www.rdr.link/EAC121
C-TEC Ltd.............................................................. Page 43
Ovia Lighting ....................................................... Page 36
www.rdr.link/EAC106
www.rdr.link/EAC122
CTEK Sweden AB .............................................. Page 36
Prefect Controls Ltd.......................................... Page 55
www.rdr.link/EAC107
www.rdr.link/EAC123
Electrorad U.K. Ltd............................................... Page 9
Schneider Electric.............................................. Page 33
www.rdr.link/EAC108
www.rdr.link/EAC124
ELEX ....................................................................... Page 34
Scolmore International Ltd ............................. Page 39
www.rdr.link/EAC109
www.rdr.link/EAC125
Elite Security Products Ltd........... Inside Back Cover
Selectric .................................................................. Page 11
www.rdr.link/EAC110
www.rdr.link/EAC126
Forum Lighting Solutions ............ Inside Front Cover
Test Instrument Solutions Ltd ........................ Page 12
www.rdr.link/EAC111
www.rdr.link/EAC127
Hamilton Litestat................................................ Page 27
Timeguard Ltd .................................................... Page 30
www.rdr.link/EAC112
www.rdr.link/EAC128
Hudson Lighting Ltd .......................................... Page 61
UNICRIMP Ltd..................................................... Page 39
www.rdr.link/EAC113
www.rdr.link/EAC129
LED Group .............................................................. Page 4
V-TAC UK Ltd................................ Outside Back Cover
www.rdr.link/EAC114
www.rdr.link/EAC130
Legrand Electric Ltd........................................... Page 21
Wise Controls....................................................... Page 61
www.rdr.link/EAC115
www.rdr.link/EAC131
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