Professional Electrician & Installer January 2023

Meet the team

Editor

RICHARD BOWLER email: pe@hamerville co uk

Digital Manager

REBECCA MCGEOCH email: rmcgeoch@hamerville co uk

Digital Assistant ADAM ROBERTS email: aroberts@hamerville co uk

Advertisement Manager

ANTHONY SCOTT email: ascott@hamerville co uk

Assistant Advertisement Manager IAN TURNER email: ianturner@hamerville co uk

Design

ADEEL QADRI

Production Assistant KERRI SMITH

Group Production Manager CAROL PADGETT

Distribution Manager KARL CLARK

Managing Editor TERRY SMITH

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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 © 2023

Editor’s Viewpoint

I s 2 0 2 3 t h e y e a r t o i n c re a s e y o u r l - e a r n i n g p o t e n t i a l ?

It’s fair to say that the last few years have been challenging for our country, with regular body blows delivered that would have seen even the most hardened of fighters scurrying to a safe corner for some respite.

Despite the social and economic difficulties that we have faced, and will continue to do so in the year ahead, there is still room for optimism, especially if you work in a specialist trade/sector like our own

Strategically, the world needs to find innovative and clever ways of both reducing our CO2 impact and helping homeowners and businesses to reduce their energy usage and bills in the wake of the shocking price rises that have been enforced upon us

The skills that competent electricians have learned ensure that they’re ideally placed to help support this change, especially with the onus on renewables and greener technologies like electric vehicles – all of which require the expertise of trained electrical professionals as part of building the infrastructure or carrying out installations

Although the signs are looking good for the continuation of the larger-scale commercial projects and new build housing developments that are required to take some of the strain from our bloated shores, one wonders if the previously prolific spending seen in the domestic improvement market may well slow down this year in the wake of the energy price hikes and volatile market conditions related to mortgages and loans

Again, all the more reason to ensure you’re equipped with the skills and knowledge that can help you to take advantage of those things that will be in

demand – such as solar panels and heat pumps

Interestingly, if you’re looking slightly further afield for a change of career this year, the offshore wind market might be just what you’re after. You can find out more about the opportunities available to skilled sparkies and hear the real-life experiences of a ‘convert’ in our Special Report on page 21

Of course, it’s far harder to realise the potential from any of these opportunities if you’re not prepared to learn new subjects or consider areas of expertise that would have been completely alien previously. It’s also vitally important that if you’re committed to building your professional knowledge and understanding, you can also find a way to document and prove that

We’re confident that PE might be able to provide some support in that regard throughout 2023 as, starting from this month’s issue, we’re launching a new ‘CPD Zone’ section (starts on page 29) which will be populated with content and articles that have been independently verified as ‘CPD-worthy’

Once you’ve read each of the articles within the section, you’ll then be able to download a certificate of proof for 1 x CPD credit – the equivalent of around 1 hours’ reading/learning time

Have a good month and please get in touch at pe@hamerville.co.uk if you have any feedback or thoughts on the new service, or simply have some electrical industry thoughts to get off your chest

Richard B o wler

MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme), the standards organisation for small-scale domestic renewable energy and heating across the UK, has appointed The IAA (The Insulation Assurance Authority) as a certification body for the installation of small-scale renewables.

The new partnership will help drive high-quality installations of small-scale renewables and provide confidence in home-grown energy as The IAA becomes the first new-to-scheme contractor certification body in over 10 years

The IAA is UKAS accredited to assess the work of its contractors to the requirements of the MCS standards. The organisation’s 140-strong membership base and new entrants wishing to join the industry can now apply to become certified through The IAA to install small-scale renewables to a high standard The technologies covered include the design and installation of air source heat pumps (ASHP) and ground source heat pumps (GSHP), as well as the installation of solar PV and solar heating

The IAA assurance framework gives homeowners the confidence that work is carried out to the highest standards and

helps ensure it is done ‘right first time’ Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, said: “We are delighted to announce the new partnership between MCS and The IAA as we are both driven by complementary visions on decarbonisation and meeting the scale of government retrofit targets by 2050 “Importantly, we work closely with our certification bodies to provide real confidence in quality renewable technologies to consumers Joining forces with The IAA will allow MCS to expand our industry reach, help us to champion quality and to grow the number of MCS certified installers, which currently stands at 2,673 ”

Simona Marcucci, Head of Customer Operations at The IAA, explained: “As a new MCS certification body our team is delighted to be able to offer installers certification for energy efficiency technologies Once installers have provided confirmation that they’re signed up to a consumer code we can start the onboarding process As long as installers are audit-ready, we can onboard in 12 working days We look forward to building a strong working relationship with MCS, a company that has quality at the heart of everything it does ”

ARMD and Van Guard have announced a new partnership designed to help prevent and protect tradespeople against tool theft and van crime.

The partnership brings together Van Guard’s range of tough van security products with ARMD’s smart insurance and fast digital claims

Van crime has a significant impact on the UK’s tradespeople and their businesses The consequences of stolen tools include loss of earnings and reputation, letting down customers and high cost of tool replacement The price of replacing tools can be extremely high, with an average loss per break-in being around £3,500.

“With a van broken into every 19 minutes in the UK, equating to more than £30m worth of goods stolen annually

from vans alone, the partnership between ARMD and Van Guard makes perfect sense for tradespeople looking to protect their tools, van and ultimately their business,” says Duncan Jackson, Co-Founder of ARMD.

“ F o r o v e r 3 0 y e a r s w e’ v e b e e n p r o v i d i n g h i g h - q u a l i t y v a n a c c e s s o r i e s a n d s e c u r i t y p r o d u c t s , ” e x p l a i n s E m l y n H a r r i s , M a n a g i n g D i r e c t o r o f Va n G u a r d

“We’ve helped many companies reduce their risk of van crime and improve the safety of their van and fleet, and we’re now proud to be partnering with ARMD on this important initiative. They share our commitment to reducing the incidence of van crime in the UK and we’re looking forward to working together.”

ECA scoops award for Net Zero campaign

ECA has been awarded the CO2onstruct Zero Partner of the year Award from the Construction Leadership Council

The award, presented at a ceremony in London, recognised ECA’s flagship Net Zero campaign, Leading the Charge, which promotes the vital role of the electrotechnical sector in the UK’s transition to Net Zero carbon

Stuart Young, Head of Stakeholder Engagement & Management, Department for BEIS, said: “ECA demonstrated extensive engagement in this space and reached new audiences.”

Mike Smith, ECA Technical Director, added: “ECA’s Leading the Charge campaign highlights some of the most powerful net zero stories from across our entire sector

We are delighted to see our work recognised, and to see that we are

succeeding in delivering our core message: there can be no Net Zero Britain without the electrotechnical and engineering services professionals and their crucial work.”

Leading the Charge is a digital series produced by Content with Purpose (CWP), exploring the electrotechnical sector’s pivotal role in realising the UK’s net zero ambitions

The series of films, podcasts and articles feature inspiring net zero stories from across the industry, with support and input from industry heavyweights including National Grid, Western Power, Megger, Actemium, Imtech and many more.

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

The number of small-scale installations, excluding solar farms and large businesses, in May 2022 was 11,000, up from 5,000 the same time last year, according to Solar Energy UK

This wave in interest and installation is expected to increase further as the Energy Price Guarantee (EPG) will run out in April 2023 and consumers will again be exposed to the volatile Energy Price Cap

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

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

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

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

As well as recognised certification and enhanced knowledge, GoodWe PLUS+ installers can also benefit from an extended warranty of up to ten years on GoodWe’s range of string inverters for residential applications Once training has been completed, all installers need to do is register for an installer code for GoodWe’s monitoring solution, SEMS, install an inverter and then connect the inverter to SEMS.

SkillELECTRIC UK champion is announced

23-year old Craig Fairweather (pictured above) has been named 2022 SkillELECTRIC champion following a challenging two-day UK final event at Middlesbrough College.

Employed by McDonald & Munro in Moray, Scotland, and trained by Moray College and SECTT, Craig excelled in a complicated task to install a range of first and second fix items including PVC/PVC surface clipping, plastic conduit, trunking and fireproof cable

Taking second place and a silver medal was Andrew Horne (pictured right) of A Campbell Electrical Services, Lews Castle College and SECTT Third place and a bronze medal was awarded to Tommy Adlam of MMES 2012 and Bridgwater & Taunton College. A special ‘Highly Commended’ mention went to Lyam Thorpe from the College of West Anglia and DJB Electrical Services for an excellent performance displayed alongside the three medal winners

In a first for this year, competitors were able to get hands-on with smart lighting and controls through wiring and operating Scolmore’s ClickSmart+ system, which allowed them to witness how future installations may look and the capabilities of smart systems

Judges had to assess how well the competitors performed in areas such as measuring accuracy (within 2mm), horizontal and vertical alignment, electrical terminations, functionality, containment symmetry, inspection, testing and safe working practices, including application of health and safety requirements

All finalists received a range of fantastic prizes including cable cutters and keylight from C K Tools, a voltage tester and proving unit from Megger; a Wiring Regulations book, lock-off kit and DeWalt cordless drill from the NICEIC and a Scolmore goodie bag containing various Click products from the Aquip, Deco, Polar and Metal Clad wiring accessories range, a Unicrimp product bundle, an ESP Fort Smart Security Kit and a variety of merchandise.

As the winner, Craig also received a Megger Multi-Function Tester, an iPad from the NICEIC and a prize bundle of a 10-piece

Electricians Tool Kit with Rucksack, MightyRod Pro Cable Rod Kit, Automatic Wire Stipper, Voltage Detector and Trimming Knife.

SkillELECTRIC is organised by industry charity National Electrotechnical Training (NET) with support from partners that include Scolmore Group and the NICEIC Alex Robinson, NICEIC Technical Training Developer, judged competitors at the national heats and the UK final: “I think the old proverb ‘more haste, less speed’ can help to sum up Craig's performance in the competition He had a plan, which gave him a clear focus from the off He executed his plan at a pace that allowed him to complete the task within the time constraints without compromising the quality of his work,” said Alex.

“Craig was methodical in his approach, which led to fewer avoidable mistakes that can ultimately make a difference when you’re competing against others who are also working to such a high standard

“Overall, the calibre of competitors has been fantastic this year, especially when you consider the disruption, they have had to their training during the pandemic, so to come out the other side with such a comprehensive skill set shows real resilience From what I’ve seen, it is my belief that all the competitors will be an asset to the electrical industry.”

Craig received the good news after watching the WorldSkills UK live results broadcast He said: “It still hasn’t sunk in yet to be honest, it was very nerve-wracking waiting for the electrical results to come up, and when it eventually did I was even more nervous once the bronze and silver medals were already out! But I was over the moon when my name was read out for the gold medal, it’s a great honour to win the UK final

“It’s definitely been a once-in-a-lifetime experience Everyone at home is extremely proud of the work I’ve done to get to this point and I couldn’t have done it without each and every one of them.”

Bright future for Aurora Lighting after acquisition by Galaed Group

Following an acquisition by the Galaed Group, ambitious plans are underway for Aurora Lighting to refocus solely on the UK market

Dedicated to unlocking the potential for the next stage of growth and transformation, private equity firm B & Capital has invested in the Galaed Group with clear ambitions for Aurora and its notable product innovations With an impressive €110m turnover, Galaed has the capability and resources to drive the Aurora Lighting brand forward

A r e t u r n t o Au r o r a’s r o o t s

The formation of Aurora Lighting UK will enable the company to return to its roots as an experienced designer and manufacturer of lighting solutions committed to meeting the needs of the UK market As a specialist in LED lighting, Aurora engineers and delivers reliable, compliant, high-performing, and simple to install products to a wide range of customers including wholesalers, contractors, and specifiers

This exciting acquisition has bolstered Aurora’s market position, while working to make the business more agile and streamlined It is a significant opportunity to relaunch the business while retaining its existing management team, the same popular product ranges and marketing services This is all underpinned with a supportive and loyal UK customer base, who can be assured they will receive the levels of service and quality they have come to expect from Aurora Lighting

Aurora Lighting will benefit from the Galaed Group’s expertise and focus on growth Created in 2020, the Group brings together five different companies –with Aurora being the fifth – that all specialise in the manufacture and sale of lamps and luminaires

A leading player in lighting solutions, Galaed has quickly earned the respect of the industry following several successful and recent acquisitions of notable lighting companies that have a strong place in the market including Miidex Lighting, Electra, Hoplights and Europole

Familiar faces

Entwining the two companies even further, Galaed Group President, Sebastian Bonneville, worked at Aurora Lighting for six years. He left to start Galaed, retaining the knowledge of Aurora’s potential, so when the opportunity to acquire the business arose, he was quick to move

The acquisition is being seen by Galaed Group and Aurora Lighting as a true collaboration With a number of synergies, the customer base will benefit from an improved supply chain, more innovation thanks to improved resourcing, and better efficiency levels leading to growth There will also be many opportunities for sharing best practice across all five companies within the group

One area of immediate focus will be the new product range for 2023, as well as greater customer engagement opportunities In the longer-term, Aurora Lighting will improve many of its processes, as well as increasing, and promoting the

company’s commitment to Environmental Social Governance.

Sebastien Bonneville, President of the Galaed Group, said: “When progressing with the new arrangement, the opportunity for Aurora to be 100% focussed on the UK market was too good to be missed

“This is the start of rebuilding the business and the brand and ultimately returning Aurora Lighting back to its rightful place in the UK market ”

He adds: “Galaed Group shares the same route to market as Aurora, as well as the same focus areas – residential, commercial, industrial and retail Aurora can undoubtedly bring value to the group, so we are looking forward to joining forces as we move forward ”

ESR celebrates 10-yearS with Parliamentary reception

AElectrical Safety Roundtable (ESR) hosted a Parliamentary Reception to shine a spotlight on ‘Enhancing the Standards of Electrical Safety in the UK’ and to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

Passionate address

The reception brought together a multitude of stakeholders from across the industry and political sphere and provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress made to enhance electrical safety standards

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

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

Commenting on the reception, Frank Bertie, Chairman of the National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers, said: “It was a pleasure to sponsor this event, and fantastic to see so many influential industry stakeholders gathered together, united by the desire to enhance electrical safety standards

“As we heard today, electricity has the potential to drastically change lives, and we will continue with our mission to enhance standards and enact some

positive change.”

Simon Wood, Industry Director for Installations at Megger, said: “Megger has been a proud member and supporter of the ESR from the start as, for the first time, it provided a platform that allowed all stakeholders within our industry the opportunity to work to a common agenda – electrical safety ”

Creating safer homes

Carl Traynor, Regional Specification Manager at Aico, commented: “Aico was delighted to be a sponsor of ESR’s Parliamentary Reception, with the opportunity to celebrate the organisation’s 10-year anniversary, as well as the research, policy solutions and guidance they have provided for the electrical industry over the last decade to improve electrical safety

“As a business, Aico has made a commitment to share best practice and create safer homes, so to be able to support other organisations with the same agenda is extremely important to us ”

Guests

Having been involved in the Electrical Safety Roundtable since its inception in 2012 and supported its growth and development over the past 10 years it was an honour to be able to celebrate it’s 10-year anniversary and address guests at a Parliamentary Reception in the House of Commons

I used the opportunity to address the guests, by reflecting on how far the industry has come over the past 10 years and to praise the electrical industry’s activity, engagement and commitment to maintaining and enhancing electrical safety standards This is evident with the updated publication of four versions of the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification and the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations, plus two Amendments

The Roundtable has proved invaluable in helping the industry achieve a long-standing goal of ours – to improve electrical safety standards We recognise the importance of industry collaboration and have found the Roundtable to be a

proactive and committed group that has demonstrated an ability to produce meaningful outcomes

Over the past year, this has included the publication of guidance for industry on The Renting Homes Wales (Act) Fitness for Human Habitation 2022 Regulations, which require mandatory electrical safety checks in rented dwellings from 1st December 2022 in Wales Recently, it has updated two excellent guidance documents on Managing Electrical Systems in Higher-risk Buildings, which has the support of Dame Judith Hackitt, and also the Code of Practice for the

Management of Electrotechnical Care in Social Housing

Earlier this year, it launched a Reporting Tool, in collaboration with TrustMark, to provide insight into the types and nature of non-compliant electrical installations in homes which NAPIT have promoted and supported. Most recently, it announced its Above and Beyond Awards, which recognise and celebrate individuals and organisations who go above and beyond their legal responsibilities to enhance and improve workplace electrical safety

I am incredibly proud to be part of a group that delivers so much good for the industry, and we will continue to be committed to enhancing the standard of electrical safety across the sector. As an organisation, we are very much looking forward to seeing what the industry can achieve together over the next 10 years This is especially important given the future looks set to depend on safe electricity generation and use, with a focus on low carbon electrification of the grid, as we move forward as a nation to deliver the net zero targets

Frank Bertie, Chairman of the NAPIT Trade Association, reflects on the Electrical Safety Roundtable’s Parliamentary Reception, which highlighted the need for enhancing the standards of electrical safety within the United Kingdom.

“I’M PROUD TO BE PART OF A GROUP THAT DELIVERS SO MUCH FOR THE INDUSTRY”

“The Roundtable has proved invaluable in helping the industry achieve a long standing goal of ours – to improve electrical standards.”

After announcing his planned retirement this coming March, we sit down with John O’Neill, NICEIC’s Technical Director, to learn more about his career and his thoughts on what the future holds for the electrical industry.

“I’LL ALWAYS BE COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING THE INDUSTRY”

QFirstly, the announcement of your impending retirement is somewhat unexpected news. If you don't mind us asking, why now?

I’ve been fortunate to enjoy a long and wonderful career Starting as an apprentice back in 1971 I went on to travel all over the world, working for some of the most prominent global organisations I also owned and operated several electrical SME businesses, and, of course, for the past 13 years, I’ve been lucky enough to work within the NICEIC family

As such, it has been a challenging decision in some respects. However, none of us can go on forever and now feels like the right time to step aside and allow fresh blood to come through As the old saying goes, you should always end things on a high, which is what I am doing Holding the role of Technical Director at NICEIC has, without a doubt, been the highlight of my career

QCan you give readers a brief overview of your career with NICEIC?

Back in 2010 I received a call from NICEIC asking if I’d like to come in and chat about possible opportunities Having been aware of the organisation for my whole career, I jumped at the chance

After the chat, I was offered a role working on the technical helpline, a fantastic experience which ignited my inquisitive nature and thirst for knowledge Anyone who has ever spent time in this role will tell you that every day is a school day.

After roughly 12 months, I moved into the field and became a NICEIC Area Assessor, another great role which allowed me to meet many professionals, almost all of whom shared my genuine love of the industry

Four years passed and I progressed into the role of Technical Engineering Manager Working alongside some

exceptional minds, this role taught me a great deal about the technical know-how harnessed within NICEIC To have access to and to be able to contribute to, hundreds of collective years of experience was truly awesome

After a further five years, the Technical Director role came up, which was always my ultimate end goal It was a great day when that ambition became a reality

QWhat would you say are the most significant changes you’ve seen with the NICEIC over the last few years?

Perhaps one of the most significant advancements witnessed on “my watch” was the work done internally around bringing our core value of technical integrity to life

It goes without saying that this value underpins everything we do and stand for However, the challenge was ensuring that all teams, not just our technical

customer-facing ones, could clearly see and define how the principle applied to their work

As Technical Director, it was my responsibility to make this happen, and as I move towards retirement, I do so with a great sense of personal pride as I believe this task has been achieved Every person at NICEIC thinks ‘technical integrity’ first and understands their role in achieving it

QIn your opinion is the industry in a better state now than it was when you started your career?

Now that is a tough one. I guess I would say it is very different. When I started my career, it was much narrower in scope and focused on traditional engineering skills Fast forward to today, and to say the spectrum has broadened is a vast understatement The advancements in technology and the race to net zero have resulted in a whole world of new opportunities

QWhat advice would you have for someone considering a career within the industry?

Easy – do it If you’re willing to work hard and apply yourself, there’s a wealth of opportunities out there for you Engage yourself, remain committed, and you can achieve great things

QWhat advice would you give to an experienced certified contractor currently?

Avoid standing still, stay hungry, and don’t close your mind to opportunities

Never stop learning I will forever be thankful for the time I spent on the technical helpline, as it allowed me to challenge my understanding No longer could I just accept what I’d been told; I had to gain a more profound understanding if I was to apply the regulations to the many queries which came in I would urge you to follow this rule and challenge yourself daily

Embrace CPD – I know many of you will see this as a necessary evil but try not to think of it as a chore Knowledge is power, and becomes even more powerful when you share it

This brings me to my final piece of

advice: take on and nurture apprentices

They’re the future lifeblood, and bringing them on not only helps your business, it also cements the future of the industry Never forget your roots and the opportunity once presented to you

despite entering the organisation reasonably late in my career (I was 54 when I joined), to me, NICEIC was the pinnacle and being part of it meant you had big boots to fill It almost felt like starting again in many ways

QLooking

at the short-term future – is there anything on the horizon that contractors need to be aware of ? Everyone must understand that when it comes to standards and technical competency, the bar has been well and truly raised, and it will only get higher

The awful Grenfell tragedy set about a chain of events which will forever change the building services industry Bringing the importance of professional standards and competency to the fore, it is now more vital than ever that we stand together and by our core values of technical integrity and upholding standards

Change is inevitable, but rest assured we, along with the entire industry, are working together to ensure any future introductions are both positive and needed to improve safety and push us forward.

What followed was an amazing journey where I learned more about the profession I had lived and loved for 35 years, than I could ever have imagined was possible

QIn

your own words, what has your time at NICEIC meant to you?

It has been a privilege and an honour Knowing that my life's work led me to become the trusted custodian of technical integrity within NICEIC is really humbling and something I’ll always be proud of and thankful for

More than just a job, NICEIC is family, and I’ve had the pleasure of working with many passionate, knowledgeable and genuinely wonderful people I leave with a heavy heart, but can take comfort knowing I’m handing the baton over to the safest of hands

QIf

you had to pinpoint a moment in your career which you are particularly proud of, what would it be?

I guess, without wanting to sound too corny, I would say it was how I stepped up when joining NICEIC It truly was an epiphany for me!

The bar was set pretty high, and

QFinally, what’s next for John O'Neill?

Quality family time, recharging the batteries (pun intended) and keeping a watchful eye over the industry with which I’ve had a lifelong love affair I may have given up the 'day job,' but I will always remain committed to the industry and supporting its growth

‘SHORE’ UP YOUR CAREER OPTIONS

In the first of a series of articles throughout 2023, Ian Balmforth,

Person at

Gamesa Renewable Energy, gives us an introduction to the world of offshore renewables and why this career path is far more viable than competent electricians may have previously believed.

us a little bit more about Siemens Gamesa and the company’s work

We manufacture and install wind turbines offshore and onshore around the world as well as carrying out ongoing service contracts for our customers

Put simply, we are the world’s leading player in the renewable wind market with 35 billion pounds worth of work on our “to do” list in the form of orders

transferable and those who have made that switch quickly realise that our industry is an option for them that they wish they’d considered sooner.

There are plenty of misconceptions around this type of work, but essentially we are on a building site that just so happens to be generating electricity and making a genuine difference to the world at the same time

We are part of one of the world’s largest engineering companies and are the largest player in offshore wind, so we’re always looking for the best people to come and work with us

One area that we don’t see enough interest coming from is qualified electricians Their skills are easily

QTell

QWhy are you keen to communicate with PE’s readers?

QWhy do we rarely see roles within Siemens Gamesa advertised? We have traditionally advertised online via our own platforms, but we recognise that

Lead Nominated

Siemens

“One area that we don’t see enough interest coming from is qualified electricians. Their skills are easily transferable and those who have made that switch quickly realise that our industry is an option that they wish they’d considered sooner.”

some of the wording and titles associated to the adverts historically might have made people doubt their suitability for the roles we offer. Again, this is something we wish to change.

are given extensive training suited for their role as standard

QWhat

other benefits does moving into this type of industry offer?

to bring those professional cultures and skills to our environment We want professional people with integrity which, to us, means doing the right thing when no one is looking.

QSo

what roles would potentially be suitable for readers of this magazine?

The short answer is ‘there are lots!’

We have roles for commissioning technicians, installation technicians and service technicians, all of which are very accessible for professionals with traditional electrical trade qualifications.

C&G L2/L3, NVQ 2/3 C&G 2391, JIB gold card etc are all industry recognised and are also equally recognised and valued within the wind turbine industry

QWhat about the aforementioned ‘Commissioning Technician’ role?

That sounds complicated…

It might, but the reality is that electricians have the skill sets that we need, and perform the same tasks every week, such as installing cables, connecting cables, fault finding, isolating systems and test/inspection

That should all sound very familiar to discerning readers of this magazine

Of course, Siemens Gamesa offers a bespoke training system to each and every turbine technician and individuals

At Siemens Gamesa we offer individuals an opportunity to join a market leader within the industry, with all the benefits around salary and flexible renumeration packages that you would expect from a large corporate employer We offer a good work/life balance, extensive training and, for lots of people, a chance for a change of perspective

Professionals are given opportunities to work all over the world in a safety-conscious and professional environment As a company, it’s important for us to demonstrate that we very much have career paths and opportunities to progress built into the culture of our business

It’s valuable for us to utilise both experience and integrity and also valuable for our technicians to know they have a future beyond the pliers and screwdrivers. What’s more, they also get to be part of the future in terms of power generation saving the planet one turbine at a time

As we work on and offshore, we have to be able to trust that your behaviours match our expectations We offer a serious and secure career opportunity and rely on our people to treat us with the same respect that we treat them with We don’t believe this is too much to ask of either party

remind individuals initially that we do work in offshore environments, so you must be reasonably fit and will be required to pass a medical examination, a sea survival course and work at height as part of your working day

If all of that works for you, we’d love to hear from you at the link below and will be happy to give you more advice about taking that first step into crossing over to the truly refreshing world of renewable energy

If you are a fully trained electrician –AM2, C&G, NVQ, 2391 – we expect you

QWhat is expected of electricians that might be interested in this career path?

QWhat’s the next step for those that are interested to learn more? We always need to

“If you’re a fully trained electrician – AM2, C&G, NVQ, 2391 – we expect you to bring those professional cultures and skills to our environment. We want people with integrity which, to us, means doing the right thing when no one is looking.”

T H E T R A I N I N G G R O U N D

TESP’s overall mission is to ensure a robust, high-quality training, qualifications and competence framework is in place for the industry and its workforce. To achieve this, our projects are all connected to promoting sector careers and progression, upholding and improving industry standards and building a picture of future skills needs

This year our work continues on the Installation Electrician apprenticeship review Subject to government approval, the plan is for the revised and updated apprenticeship to be available for registrations for September 2023 The Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) will be revised to align with the apprenticeship, and a new Domestic Electrician EWA will also be launching

There’ll be a big push on supporting full-time learners to gain experience and become fully qualified in line with strengthened EAS requirements We’ll be looking to encourage employers to offer apprenticeships or work experience – so look out for this as it’s a campaign that needs as much industry support as possible

We’ll also be doing more on our Rogue Trainers campaign – sadly in this current climate there are even more stories of people being ripped off by unscrupulous training providers We’ll be asking the industry to step up, flag bad practice to their local communities and support TESP on spreading this message

As always, we welcome input from right across the industry to help inform our work Please contact us if you’d like to get involved in TESP’s projects, or have views you’d like to share

I have heard about some of the projects TESP works on, but what are their main priorities currently and how can I get involved in the issues that get addressed?

TEST EQUIPMENT: CHOOSE THE ELECTRIC AVENUE

David Sweetman, Group Marketing and Business Development Director at DiLOG Group, ponders whether your next multifunction tester should be an EV MFT.

These days, there are many reasons why electricians should consider a multifunction installation tester with Electric Vehicle (EV) testing capability when they’re investing in new test equipment Let’s look at some of the key benefits of doing so:

Future proofing

According to the Climate Change Committee (CCC), the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) will be one of the most important actions to achieve the UK’s Net Zero target.

Today’s EV market is estimated to be around 400,000, which includes all fully electric and plug-in hybrid models and equates to 1% of all UK vehicles By 2032, this number is expected to accelerate to 23 2 million (55% of all UK vehicles) and by 2050 the figure is predicted to reach 49 million (100% of all UK vehicles)

C u r r e n t l y, t h e r e a r e a p p r ox i m a t e l y 3 3 ,0 0 0 p u b l i c c h a r g i n g p o i n t s f o r a r o u n d 4 0 0,0 0 0 p l u g - i n e l e c t r i c v a n s a n d p a s s e n g e r v e h i c l e s . I n o r d e r t o g r o w t h e U K ’s E V f l e e t t o 2 3 . 2 m i l l i o n E Vs b y 2 0 3 2 , t h e C C C e s t i m a t e s 3 2 5 ,0 0 0 p u b l i c c h a r g i n g p o i n t s w i l l b e n e e d e d T h e s e n u m b e r s d o n o t i n c l u d e t h e E V c h a r g e r s t h a t a r e i n s t a l l e d a t h o m e s a n d w o r k p l a c e s

So, there is every possibility that you will be installing EV chargers in the future if you are not doing so already

Should your next installation tester have the functionality to check the effectiveness of DC leakage protection installed within the EV charger? I believe the answer to the question is “yes” in accordance with BS7671:2018:AM2 –Chapter 64 section 3 (643) titled ‘Testing’

Subsection 643 10 ‘functional testing’, states that: “protective devices shall be submitted to a test of their function, as necessary, to check that they are properly installed and adjusted”

Di-LOG’s EV test equipment range

Di-LOG’s new DL9100 series MFT incorporates the DL9120 and DL9130EV with both products boasting DC capability, paving the way for a host of tests specific to the EV and PV sectors; mainly the ability to conduct a Type B (Pure DC) RCD test

The new DL9100 range is Di-LOG’s most intelligent tester to date with a fully auto-sensing high current Loop/PSCC test

that will auto the user is c either a 2-wi test without select a spe setting. Fitte new high-co RGB colour s a full second results are h screen with benefit of co screen alarm specific trigg or warnings are met.

Having fu flexibility whilst on-site is paramount and with the addition of a the user can dial in any specific value required to safely conduct the test

Safety first

Both the DL9120 and DL9130EV have DC capability The DL9130EV hosts additional EV and time-saving features such as Zmax (maximum Earth Loop) and Rmax (maximum R1+R2/R2) both designed to aid the user The DL9130EV has a full 6mA RDC-DD test to indicate the DC safety protection is working on all modern EV chargers Excessive DC current on an RCD protecting AC supply could result in the failure to trip when an AC fault occurs.

For full EV verification, the DL9130EV can be switched to full Auto EV mode. The EV Auto Sequence performs a cycle of full RCD tests, checking the EV charger along with the Type A RCD All results are then recalled easily at the press of a button

Simplistic Modern-day test equipment tends to host an array of features that offer fantastic value for money However, more often than not, this can create test equipment with complex menu protocols when all you really want to do is rotate a dial, press

a button and go The DL9100 series continues to adopt this approach with a new intuitive user interface.

British manufacturing

If you still require some convincing, maybe you should consider the fact they you’ll be supporting UK manufacturing From time-to-time, things don't always go quite to plan and like any electronic device that is designed to work in the most extreme environments, there is always the odd hiccup, so to speak.

With UK-based manufacturing, research, development and design teams, issues can be quickly found and resolved –without your equipment potentially seeing more of the world than yourself !

Di-LOG is proud to support British manufacturing by designing and building our specialist safety test equipment in the UK All of our 18th Edition multifunction testers and PATs have a UK-based R&D team dedicated to designing, building and delivering the most up-to-date technology to meet the continuous needs of our customers

THE R OAD TO NET ZER O

hen early researchers like Benjamin Franklin conducted their first experiments into electricity, they probably didn’t realise that they were changing the world at all, never mind twice But after two centuries of electricity underpinning the equipment that runs our modern world, it’s now also emerging as perhaps the greatest solution to humanity’s biggest challenge – climate change

Electricity is 3-4 times more efficient than other forms of energy, like fossil fuels And with energy prices spiralling, homeowners are now looking for ways to better produce, manage and store their energy So, the current drive to increase its accessibility and make more homes electrified is understandable, and essential

As we enter the new year and face new challenges, the urgent need to make homes more efficient is greater than ever So, we must look to what Schneider Electric has phrased ‘Electricity 4 0’ – a re-envisioning of electricity for a more-electric, digital world that gives more and wastes less

From renewables-led production to fully digitalised electric grids for reliable dispatchability, it represents a step change from conventional electricity We’re now realising that we are in a structural shift one that requires all stakeholders to move away from conventional ways of life towards a more sustainable future

Dr iving forward renewable energy and a dig italised solution

Globally, there is a visible shift toward renewables We estimate the contribution of renewable sources, such as solar and hydro, to electricity production will increase six times by 2040 Countless studies suggest that if renewable contributions are scaled to 50% by 2030, the resulting electricity could be at least 10% cheaper than the energy produced by thermal plants

So, it complements the affordability that homeowners and businesses across the globe are currently craving

At the same time, the advancement of digital solutions means the invisible can become the visible, further eliminating waste and driving forward enhanced energy efficiency as consumers take control of their consumption Smart devices, Apps, analytics, and software go a step further and enable us to deploy smart energy more efficiently, meaning we can address a huge amount of untapped potential to achieve a net-zero future

As the energy transition towards cleaner energy sources gathers pace, we are already able to harness digital technology that helps us use energy more efficiently and ease the demand on grids Digital grids can easily integrate with renewable sources, whilst operators can monitor them, detect inefficiencies immediately, perform proactive maintenance, and ensure optimal performance

A new year, a new oppor tunity 2023 presents an exciting new opportunity to show customers and stakeholders innovative ways to produce their electricity It is down to professionals and industry leaders to pave the way, providing the expertise, knowledge, and skills to electrify buildings throughout the nation We are on the precipice of a new age, where consumers are suddenly taking an acute interest in this field, so we’d be short-sighted to ignore it

Electricity 4 0 will be vital to achieving net zero, whilst maintaining a resilient power value chain, especially as we increasingly connect more IoT devices and electric vehicles to the network If pursued through multi-stakeholder participation and continued political will, the road to 100% electrification will be a smooth and exciting one

t h e d a w n o f 1 0 0 % e l e c t r i f i c a t i o n ?

Megger understands your problem and has taken this into account in the design of its new MFT-X1 multifunction installation tester The firmware can be easily updated so that it always reflects the requirements of the latest regulations It’s really simple to update – all you do is download the latest firmware from the Megger website onto the micro-SD memory card which is supplied Replace this in the tester and, within a few minutes, the MFT will have automatically updated itself You don’t need to return the tester to the factory for updating – you do it yourself easily and quickly You can be confident that Megger will promptly issue updates – which are free – for any significant changes in the regulations so, with the MFT-X1, your future-proofing worries are over It’s also a great tester and features a colour display, new TrueLoop with Confidence Meter for all loop tests, rechargeable battery packs you can change without tools, plus much more

ENTER THE CPD ZONE AND EARN 1 CPD CREDIT TOWARDS YOUR PROFESSIONAL RECORD!

continuing professional development (CPD) can be broadly defined as any type of learning you undertake which increases your knowledge, understanding and experiences of a subject area or role.

To help professionals to better document and prove this process, our brand new CPD Zone contains content and articles that have been checked, verified and accredited by a third-party specialist organisation

Collectively, the content within this section has been deemed worthy of 1 CPD credit, or 1 hours’ worth of CPD

Once this content has been consumed, readers will have the opportunity to scan a QR code which will provide a bespoke, downloadable certificate that can be used as part of a

professional’s ongoing CPD record

This means that if you’re a monthly reader of PE, you could earn up to 11 credits, or 11 hours’ worth of CPD, just by reading a regular copy of your favourite independent industry magazine in 2023

DO NOT SCAN THE QR CODE UNLESS YOU HAVE READ ALL

OF THE CONTENT WITHIN THIS SECTION!

A large element of CPD involves self-certification and relies on professionals being honest about what they have actually read, consumed and digested A QR code has been placed with the final article in this month’s CPD Zone and ONLY once you have read ALL of the articles within this section, should you then scan the code to receive your bespoke certificate

By skipping any of these steps, you’re not just cheating the system, but yourself and your fellow professionals at the same time!

NEW USERS – ACCESS YOUR BESPOKE CPD CERTIFICATE IN SIX STEPS

1. Read ALL of the content and articles included within this month’s CPD Zone

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4 Enter the four-digit code

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PREVIOUS USERS – ACCESS YOUR CPD CERTIFICATE IN FIVE STEPS

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4. Enter the four-digit code

5. Download your certificate for use as part of your annual CPD record

THE CODEBREAKERS

Some things just never seem to change, which is ver y frustrating There are so many defects here that it's tough to k now where to star t, so I'll tr y and group the various issues together where I can:

1. Terminations and single insulation not taken into an enclosure are a problem as there is no adequate mechanical protection There are a few of those issues in the photo

2. Terminations not adequately suppor ted may cause strain on them, leading to loose connections and possible arc faults and fires This would explain the intermittent flickering operation repor ted by the Client.

3. Cpc is not taken to each accessor y and point in a circuit, which means there is no shock protection after the first accessor y We can see where the cpc has been intentionally cut and left out of the way on the 3- core flex

4. The termination of the cpcs in some of the flat twin and ear th cables is not adequate Twisting cpcs together is neither a reliable method to ensure adequate termination nor will it aid in periodic inspection and maintenance

5. I can’t see from the photo if there is any access to live par ts where the terminal connectors are used A couple of them seem to have multiple conductors in them, which may or may not give rise to access to live par ts.

The shameful thing here is that the work seems to have been a recent install, which means the low level of sk ills shown is likely to be found in other installations by the same installer This type of work manship is only ever going to receive an unsatisfactor y result on an EICR

BARRY MAY: THE CUSTOMER COMPLAINED THAT THE BATHROOM LIGHTS WERE FLICKERING WHEN THE EXTRAC TOR FAN WAS ON WE REMOVED THE FAN AND THIS MESS FELL OUT !

Wow, just wow! A work in progress is one thing, but this is pretty astounding.

From the top, the lid being left off and not even in sight to be replaced is leaving this installation dangerous, with access to live par ts before we even star t Even though this isn’t strictly an EICR, the Client has called someone in to give an opinion which can be seen to be an EICR of sor ts.

The unacceptable cable management is next up and is a pretty easy fix that could have been avoided from the star t with some well-placed trunk ing. I’m not quite sure what the cable connected through the CU front opening is doing, but it will need to be re -routed, as the cover won’t fit with it there!

The state of the cables inside the CU is difficult to see from the photo, so I’ll leave that out of the equation. I will comment on the SWA bottom right, though, as it seems to have a BS 951 clamp on it, with a conductor then entering the metal CU in a different opening to the SWA This could have eddy current issues with high loadings; I’m not sure why that ’s been done, as the SWA gland would have adequately and acceptably transferred any cpc requirements to the CU

The BS 591 clamp is also not designed to be used in this way, as adequate torque to the armouring cannot be confirmed, and by doing this, there is a risk that the SWA cores can be crushed and damaged This is a totally unacceptable and dangerous installation that could easily be rectified by a sk illed and competent installer.

CLIVE HAMILTON: I WAS ASKED TO VISIT A SITE WHICH WAS WIP ( WORK IN PROGRESS) AND THE SPARK WAS STRUGGLING! BEAR IN MIND THE ‘OTHER’ SPARK WASN’ T ON SITE AND THIS WAS LIVE WITH THE COVER NOWHERE TO BE SEEN – NOTHING SURPRISES ME ANYMORE! IT SEEMS THERE ARE FEWER SPARKS TRYING TO FOLLOW GOOD PRAC TICE AND THE REGULATIONS THESE DAYS

NETWORKING DATA CABLES

Introduction

Many commercial and industrial installations employ networking cables for their main infrastructure of Ethernet networks, enabling a permanent and reliable link for communication between items of equipment such as workstation computers, printers and network servers However, some devices, such as those used to control office lighting, work on a connected bus system operated through a software interface including, typically, multi-pair cables having a screened data pair and unscreened power pair

Within the home, smart devices such as entertainment equipment, lighting and heating control systems often require a network connection. This connection, typically based on a local area network (LAN), allows such devices to:

l access internet-based data sources and services; to retrieve the latest information such as the weather conditions for enhance energy efficiency, l give the user greater control and monitoring of connected devices while away from the home, to further improve energy performance and/or provide increased security property monitoring.

In larger premises, the use of access points (AP) for expansion of the wireless network may be an option, although these devices typically require a separate network cable, such as a twisted pair cable, which allows for data and power to be transmitted within the same cable.

This is often referred to as Power over Ethernet (PoE)

Although many devices can connect wirelessly to a network, such connections are generally limited in range, susceptible to security breaches and can suffer from interference due to external influences, leading to poor signal quality or loss of signal and consequently, failure of equipment

For this reason, the installation of dedicated data network cables may be a favourable option In addition to improving the reliability of connected devices, having a direct link to the LAN also permits larger amounts of data to be transferred at increased speed whilst reducing the latency1 between input and output devices

Twisted pair data cable

Networking data cables are commonly made up of four twisted pairs of copper conductors, although other variants of cables are available ( s e e F i g 2 ) . The twisted pairs are typically used for carrying data signals, a digital pulse or the variations in voltage between (TX+ and TX-) and (RX+ and RX-) conductors 2 Typically, not all the twisted pairs within

the cable are used for the transmission of data

The performance and ability of a cable to transmit large amounts of data for a particular application depends mostly upon the cable’s grade of construction These grades are generally categorised (Category 5 - Category 8 2) and are used to identify the amount of data the cable can carry, a measure of high and low bandwidth, and the speed at which the data can be transmitted from its source to output device (transmission speed) ( s e e Ta b l e 1 )

Bandwidth

The bandwidth is the ability of a cable to carry a signal ranging across upper and lower bands of frequency over a period of time For example, a Category 5 cable having a maximum bandwidth of 100 MHz would be able to process a signal between point’s f L and f H on a frequency response curve, as shown by Fig 1

Cable construction

The method of construction varies between the Categories and relates to the performance of the cable For example, a screened Category 6A cable as shown in

Table 1 Transmission speeds for various Categories of cable

The team at NICEIC provide guidance for the contractor on the installation of twisted pair network cables to BS ISO / IEC 11801 and BS EN 50173 series, and compliance with BS 7671 requirements.

Fig 2, is capable of transferring greater amounts of data per second in comparison to that of an unscreened Category 5 cable This is due to the improved construction, which includes:

l An outer sheath; this may vary between manufacturers but mostly consists of PVC, polyethylene or low smoke halogen (LSZH) insulation3

l Interior separation used for mitigating the unwanted coupling of adjacent conductors and preventing induced noise (crosstalk) transference between each twisted pair of conductors

l Inner aluminium foil screen prevents external noise (alien crosstalk4) from disrupting the transmitted signal

l C onductors, vary in cross-sectional area (csa) between categories

Typically for Category 6A the csa is 0 258 mm2 solid copper, generally covered with high density polyethylene insulation, arranged in four twisted pairs

l The twisting arrangement of conductors varies in pitch between the pairs of conductors within the cable and is measured in twists per inch (TPI). This helps to reduce the internal crosstalk or electromagnetic interference between pairs of conductors, allowing for pure signal distribution with less error

The TPI is typically increased between the pairs of conductors in a Category 6A cable compared with that of a Category 5 Cables having stranded copper conductors provide greater flexibility and

would typically be used for patch cables or for final connections to portable devices

Cable termination

The connection of electronic equipment is referenced in the IEC 60603-7 series and relates to the interface of Category cables and the termination of conductors, as shown in Fig 2 There are two standards for the connection of RJ-45 terminations, these include T-568A and T-568B (defined in the US standard ANSI/TIA/EIA-568 2-D), which relate to the order of terminations of conductors within that standard.

It is critical to have correct and adequate terminations at both ends of the cable Any poor termination will reduce signal strength, cause a loss or noise in the transmitted signal creating distortion and data error

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

The PoE applications use either two or four pairs to deliver power to terminal devices; power can be transmitted over data conductors

Other applications may include the distribution of a DC power supply through a device such as an Ethernet switch, used to connect equipment such as lighting controllers, IP cameras and wireless access points over the same data network cable

Requirements of BS 7671

The requirements of BS 7671 are applicable to the installation of network data cables within a building – refer to (110 1 2 indent (vi))

Network cables are often distributed throughout the fabric of a building, usually from a central location, which makes it possible for them to be in contact with, or close proximity to, other cables having different operating voltages

To minimise the risk of interference between cables of different voltage levels:

l B a n d I a n d B a n d I I c i r c u i t s s h a l l n o t b e c o n t a i n e d i n t h e s a m e w i r i n g s y s t e m a s c i r c u i t s h a v i n g a n o m i n a l v o l t a g e e xc e e d i n g t h a t o f l o w v o l t a g e, a n d

l Band I and Band II circuits shall not be contained within the same wiring system, unless one or more of the

Fig

Fig 2 A typical Categor y 6A cable and typical pin layout for RJ 45 connector

conditions in indents (i) to (iv) of Regulation 528.1 are met.

Where network cables of Band I are installed in a duct or shared void underground, and/or cross with cables of Band II, segregation should be provided to achieve a minimum separation of 100 mm Where this is not practical, mechanical protection shall be provided (528.2).

Similarly, network cables are often terminated within patch panels or media cabinets enabling peripheral equipment such as Ethernet switches, routers and entertainment equipment to be contained within one location However, mixed voltages are likely to be grouped within the same assembly in which segregation will be required (515 2)

It is important to recognise, that where necessary, adequate support must be provided for Band I networking cables to prevent their premature collapse in the event of a fire (521 10 202) This may be achieved in a number of ways including:

l metallic clips inside or outside of plastic trunking l metallic saddles holding plastic conduits l metallic clips on wall-mounted cables.

Cables installed in steel trunking/conduits and on top of cable tray/ladder rack are not considered to be an entanglement risk Similarly, additional support is not required for cables installed in floors, above ceilings or behind plasterboard

Furthermore, the methods used for sealing low voltage cable penetrations within a building structure also apply where data networking cables are installed Such sealing arrangements are a fundamental requirement of the Building Regulations in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, in addition to the requirements of Regulation Group 527 2 of BS 7671

Summary

Where it is necessary to install network data cables for equipment within a building, installers need to be mindful of the suitability of a cable for a particular application; reference should always be made to manufacturer’s recommendations

In addition, where such types of cable are likely to be installed in proximity to cables of mixed voltages, creating a potential for interference and signal error, segregation shall be provided

The need to provide adequate support for Band I networking cables for the prevention of premature collapse in the event of a fire must also be considered

Key references

1. The term latency describes the time delay of a data signal having been sent from a source and the receiving device acting upon the signal received

2. TX+ and TX- are the pair used for transmission whilst RX+ and RX- are the receiving signal pair

3 Manufacturers often reference a cable sheath having (LSZH), although Construction Product Regulations (CPR) specify a particular code highlighting product conformity for example, BS EN 50399 B2ca s1a d1 a1

4. Alien crosstalk is referenced in BS ISO / IEC 11801 series, which relates to the induction electromagnetic interference from neighbouring cables

THE RISE OF THE PROSUMER

Osborne, ECA’s Energy & Emerging Technologies Solutions Advisor, looks at the key things electricians need to know to stay ahead of the ‘prosumer’ curve.

What is a prosumer building?

“A building that is an active component of the energy network and that moves beyond a unidirectional flow of energy into the building to that of bi-directional flow ” BS7671: Part 8 Chapter 82: The Energy Prosumer

As the UK attempts to use less fossil fuel and move towards a Net Zero Carbon 2050, significant new demands will be placed on our existing energy systems. Many more of us will become prosumers This will have three important implications for the electrical and wider electrotechnical sector:

1. More business: prosumer activity is set to provide huge opportunities for retrofitting existing buildings and installation in new buildings.

2. Attracting talent: as one of the sectors at the centre of a building and infrastructure Net Zero Carbon 2050, the demand for modern technology and techniques will help to drive recruitment

3. Trusted experts: the electrical services sector will become increasingly

relevant to policy conversations about the UK’s energy direction and future, and to clients, making it a principal agent of positive change

Prosumerism: why now?

“Energy generated from renewable energy accounted for over 43 per cent of the energy provided to the electricity grid in 2020.” BS 7671 (March 22): Part 8, Chapter 82 The Energy Prosumer

The UK regularly generates more electrical energy from renewables Renewables' share of total generation was 42 8 per cent at the end of 2021, up by 2 1 per cent on 2020 This trend is set to

increase. However, growing reliance on renewables raises issues such as consistency of energy supply

To ensure a sufficiently consistent UK energy supply, the ECA has actively lobbied government and industry stakeholders in three key areas:

1. Generation 2. Storage 3. Energy efficiency

In reality, we need a combination of effective measures across these three areas But even focusing on points two and three improved storage and energy

Luke

efficiency could save the UK economy £30-£70 billion according to BEIS’s ‘Transitioning to a net Zero energy system: Smart Systems and Flexibility Plan 2021’ (view this at: bit.ly/3xLuonF)

OppOrtunity #1: MOre business

The ECA Guidance Note ‘Planning for a Green Pivot v 1 2’ identifies many opportunities for low-carbon electrotechnical activity, outlined in the diagram on page 36 Looking at three of these opportunities in more detail:

i) transport: building the domestic and commercial infrastructure

Electric vehicles (EV) have already entered an early exponential growth phase In 2015, just over 1 per cent of new vehicles registered also had a plug, compared with almost 19 per cent in 2022 (according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) Key factors such as current fuel prices and the none-too-distant 2030 ban on the sale of new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles will reinforce this trend and increase the need for Electric Vehicle Charge Point (EVCP) installation and maintenance for both domestic and commercial use

ii) Heating: making homes carbon-efficient

As part of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, a £450m government grant came into force in May 2022, providing £5,000 for households to install air source heat pumps (ASHP).

Furthermore, with no VAT on heat pumps for the next five years, support for this sector looks set to continue, so electrical contractors may decide to invest in training and certification on the basis of improved predictability

As the carbon intensity of grid electricity falls, for new or well-insulated houses, the direct electrification of heating – such as underfloor heating, infra-red heaters, or ‘smart’ storage heaters – may become more and more worthwhile following forthcoming changes to the Building Regulations (which have historically penalised electric heating)

iii)

renewables & storage: working together to improve efficiency

On a domestic scale, solar PV is once again back in vogue. With high energy prices set to continue, this solution is growing in popularity for both retrofit and new-build projects The combination of the Green Homes Grant and Building Integrated PVs (BIPV) has

boosted the appeal of solar PV installations for new builds especially Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS) offer a whole new level of flexibility and convenience, allowing users to buy energy from the grid when usage and prices are low, and sell it back at peak times As EVs become ubiquitous, Vehicle to Grid (V2G) charging will become an integrated feature of many homes, making use of the EV’s significant electric battery

OppOrtunity #2: AttrActing tALent

To do the work needed to meet our Net Carbon Zero targets, electricians will need to add new skills to their arsenal. This means training and certification will be incredibly important, both for businesses and qualified electricians looking to expand their capabilities It will also be vital for the career progression of any new and prospective industry entrants

Electrical energy storage system (EESS), Electric Vehicle Charge Point (EVCP) and heat pump training and Building Automation and Control Systems (BACS) are areas where technicians can expand their skillset right now

For installers looking to work within funded schemes, MCS certification is required In some circumstances, they will need PAS 2030 when installing under a

PAS 2035 Retrofit program

OPPORTUNITY #3: TRUSTED EXPERTS

At the outset of this article, I mentioned the recent addition of Chapter 82 to The Wiring Regulations. It highlights how the electrical systems within our buildings will need to interact with a smart and decarbonised energy grid It introduces a couple of new terms: Energy Prosumer and Prosumer Electrical Installation (PEI)

To understand fully connected systems such as PEIs, electricians will need to understand how the various elements on-site generation, energy storage, heating systems, EV charge points, to name a few – fit together, both with each other and with other trades Incorrect specification or installation could lead to expensive mistakes down the line, when a whole building doesn’t work as intended

The electrotechnical sector has a vital role to play in shaping the UK’s decarbonisation given our understanding of the technologies involved and the need for qualified and competent installers to deliver on the government’s objectives.

Guidance on Prosumerism

In late March 2022, the IET Wiring Regulations (BS7671 – 18th Edition) were amended to address amongst other

things energy efficiency and prosumer installations, formally introducing us to the terms ‘Energy Prosumer’ and ‘Prosumer’s Electrical Installation (PEI)’

ECA has produced guidance in this emerging area, including the Chapter 82 Energy Prosumer Guide Additionally, ECA’s ‘Planning for a Green Pivot v1 2’ document covers an array of Net Zero Carbon 2050 opportunities for ECA Members, in particular guidance on support schemes, training and accreditation

Prepare for success

The terms, Energy Prosumer, and Prosumers Electrical Installation (PEI) are set to become more common as the industry gears up for Net Zero Carbon 2050

As one of the industries at the forefront of sustainability and Net Zero, we are faced with a unique and unprecedented set of opportunities When these sustainable technologies can be designed to work together the effects can be ground-breaking.

However, ongoing training and accreditation will be vital to ensure that installations are carried out in a timely manner (to satisfy government objectives), effectively (to satisfy consumer needs), and efficiently (to satisfy Net Zero Carbon 2050 targets)

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR INSTALLERS

The energy prosumer model offers significant opportunities, and a range of new challenges To work efficiently and effectively, solar panels, batteries, EV chargers and heat pumps will need to work in harmony This means they will need to work as a prosumer system, and not just as individual product types. It is therefore vital that designers and installers have sufficient training and skills to make this possible, and to make sure that the technologies are configured to work collectively

Ultimately, customers will become much more aware of their own energy use and production as we move beyond the status quo of taking grid supply, and its flat charges, for granted Load-shifting will become a prominent part of prosumer installations, especially for heating and EV charging A combination of rising or, at best, highly variable energy prices, plus new legislation and standards are shaping the future of UK grid supply and interactions

Below is just one example of what installers will increasingly encounter as we begin to engage with the prosumer environment:

Island mode

Where a building is expected to run independently of the grid (in what is called ‘island mode’), specific earthing conditions and controls should be applied. In addition, checks will be needed to ensure that the local system will be running in-phase with the grid prior to grid re-connection Additionally, installers will need to consider dedicated circuits when running in island mode

CASE STUDY: SWANSEA UNIVERSITY BAY CAMPUS

‘CARBON VS CASH’

e c e d e n t e d l e v e l s o f f l e x i b i l i t y

The microgrid controller at the heart of this project uses a web-based user interface that communicates real-time energy use, savings and CO2 emissions data This microgrid controller also links directly to third-party sites, such as weather forecasts, to decide whether/when to deplete or charge the batteries

For example, if the user has specified cash saving, then weather forecasting data is combined with energy tariff predictions to decide when to use power, when to store it, and when to sell it back to the grid

Sustainable technologies used: l 135kWp rooftop solar PV system l 6kWp carport solar PV + 5 EV charge points l 216kWh battery storage in bespoke ISO container l Schneider Microgrid Controller

“It is fantastic to be able to work on this unique, innovative project, implementing new systems and technologies in a way that we hope will be a beacon to future developments. The innovations included in the scheme fit perfectly with the University’s aims to enhance its sustainability and reduce its carbon footprint by generating its own renewable power ”

Chris Phillips, Contracts Manager, RDM

Dr. Zzeus

IN

THIS REGULAR COLUMN,

‘DR. ZZEUS’

TOM BROOKES, md of zzeus training and CHAIRMAN OF THE FSA, WILL ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS RELATED TO FIRE SAFETY COMPLIANCE. THIS MONTH’S COVERS FIRE DETECTORS...

I have recently been asked to look at a fire alarm in a building, which is a category BS 5839-1:2017 L1 system. Correct me if I am wrong, but is an L1 supposed to have detectors everywhere? I have looked at the system, and there are detectors missing from cupboards, a toilet and, worse still, a stairway lobby. Also, are you a real Doctor?

Thank you for your Question, Mr S Ives (Fire Risk Assessor)

If you look in Clause 8 2 f of British Standard 5839-1:2017 it states, certain areas may be classed as areas of low risk

The standard states in clause 8.2 f, in categories L1 and P1, automatic system detectors should be installed in all rooms of the premises; however, the following rooms may not be protected if they are at low risk of a fire occurring:

l Bathrooms/shower rooms and toilets

l Toilet lobbies and stair lobbies

l Small cupboards less than 1 m2

There are a couple of notes within clause note 8 that state that in some buildings, such as shopping centres and hospitals, toilets may not be low risk because of the risk of arson

Note 9 states that a riser cupboard that has a fire-stopped floor and ceiling may be considered a cupboard Note 10 states that detection may be excluded from the same such areas in L2, L3, and L4 category systems

Now here's the bit that does not sit comfortably with me: this clause states: ‘these areas need not be protected if they are of low fire risk’ (see 3 33) This means that for a fire alarm engineer to make this decision, they are deciding that the areas are low risk and then signing a document accordingly

When you look at Clause: 3 33, Low-risk areas or rooms, it states: ‘a room or area that contains very little or no combustible substance and has no ignition sources, which any foreseeable fire is unlikely to spread to cause a threat to escape by occupants or damage to property’

To me, it is far better for a qualified, competent fire risk assessor to make that decision

Stair lobbies are one of the areas of low risk that I have highlighted for change in the next update of the standard as I do not feel these should ever be classed as an area of low risk

Going back to the original question, it would appear that the designer deemed the areas you

mentioned as areas of low risk Shower rooms and bathrooms are fairly easy to judge However, pay close attention to the cupboards because what is contained in the cupboard may make it high risk –many will contain a consumer unit or a server, or even flammable liquids; all of these would not be of low risk

Now on to the second part of your question: am I a real Doctor?

The short answer is ‘yes’ I was given an honouree Doctorate in 2014 for the work that I did to help a university with a fire detection system dissertation. It does say ‘Doctor’ on my driving licence etc. but I’ve not really used the title as its honouree I have just passed a full PhD, however, and am now a fully qualified Doctor As of this month, I will also be a Professor DO

YOUR COMMON QUERIES SURGE PROTECTION:

Since the release of the 18th Edition there has been an increase in the use of Surge Protection Devices, and this is only growing with the additional requirements in Amendment 2

As always with a new subject matter, there are a few frequently asked questions that I hope to cover in this article:

will also be required if the structure has an external lightning protection system.

do some manufacturers need an MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker) before the SPD?

No, an SPD is designed to take multiple surges and internally reset after each overvoltage An SPD will only need changing at the end of its life (the warranty is manufacturer dependent) and this will be shown in the status indication on the front of the unit

With the increase in availability of consumer units with the SPD already installed, it is becoming more of a consideration as to whether this is the correct device A Type 1 will be needed in a domestic installation, if the property is supplied via an overhead cable Outside of domestic installations, a Type 1 device

According to BS7671, all SPDs shall be protected from overcurrent, which can be done through the use of an MCB or internal fuse As a company, we specify the use of MCBs with all of our devices The MCB will provide a back-up in case of a failure within the SPD, while also protecting the cable and giving a point of isolation for the SPD

If the SPD is installed within the consumer unit, cable lengths will automatically be suitable When installing outside of a consumer unit, you must ensure that all cables combined are less than 1m in length Length A will be from where you take your live supply to the MCB (this is ‘0’ if the MCB is on the busbar), Length B is from the MCB to the SPD and Length C is from the SPD to the closest earth point (not the MET) For a more detailed explanation of this, please look at the installation guide available on our website

QWill

an SPD installed in the consumer unit protect the whole domestic property?

An SPD in the consumer unit will massively reduce the risk of any internal damage within the electrical installation from overvoltage coming from the mains supply Obviously, there are other routes of entry into the electrical system, via aerials, telephone lines or any external cables, but there is no requirement in BS7671 to protect these routes.

QDo I need to install Type 3 devices in a domestic installation?

There is no requirement to use Type 3 devices The Type 2 on the consumer unit provides an enhanced level of voltage protection for the installation Type 3 devices would only be used in specific specialist circumstances

If you have any questions that I haven’t covered in this article, or would like any specific help with a project or installation, please contact me directly at: kirsty@surgedevices.co.uk

QWill an SPD need replacing after every surge?

QWhen do I need to use a Type 1?

QWhy

QHow do I measure the cable lengths to ensure I meet the BS7671 requirements?

Kirsty Johnson MIET, Technical Director at Surge Protection Devices, answers some of the common queries around the use of SPDs following Amendment 2 to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations.

INSIDE OUT OR OUTSIDE IN?

What have we been missing?

Often overlooked is the importance we should place on enclosures to ensure any conductors and their respective terminations are adequately protected from mechanical damage and accidental contact, especially from ordinary persons

The most common problem we see when we look at installations, either new or existing, are single insulated cables not taken into an adequate enclosure

Whether the exposed single insulation is the result of 6491X cable improperly used, from missing trunking lids (which is very common), or from a sheathed cable with the sheath removed, exposing single insulated cables, such as 6242Y flat twin and earth, 6945X armoured or 6181Y meter tails, the problem is the same.

Why is this a problem?

Single insulation does not provide any mechanical protection, which means it’s susceptible to the rigours and abuses of everyday life. I say abuses because the seriousness of injury from electricity is very much maligned, and there is an assumption that the cable will protect you from the electricity flowing through it against all things – from walking on it to hanging things off it

As single insulation does not possess any mechanical protection properties, by

its design, we need to ensure it’s protected in some way, and that’s where enclosures come in and why they’re so important BS 7671 is very specific when it mentions and defines an enclosure. According to Part 2 Definitions, an enclosure is:

‘A part providing protection of equipment against certain external influences and in any direction providing basic protection.’

That’s not enough on its own, though, so greater clarity is given in Regulation 526 8, which in turn refers to 526 5, requiring single insulation to be treated as any termination or connection in a conductor. In requesting this, the single insulation must be taken into either:

l An accessory complying with a suitable product standard

l An equipment enclosure complying with an appropriate product standard

l An enclosure partially formed or completed with non-combustible building materials, or

l A combination of two or more of the above

What’s

the solution?

A reason for leaving single insulation

outside of an enclosure that we often hear is that there isn’t room in the given enclosure to fit the cables and terminate them adequately As we look at enclosures, we can agree that this is an issue in some cases, but there certainly is no excuse to do it, as there are devices to help overcome this

Where there isn’t room in a manufacturer’s enclosure, distribution board (DB) or consumer unit (CU) to adequately encase the single insulated cables, extension and spreader boxes can be used These items provide an extra section of enclosure that can house single insulated cables to allow a tidy and adequate connection inside the main

NAPIT’s Principal Technical Author, Richard Townsend, looks at the importance of enclosing single insulated cables.

enclosure

Fig 1 and Fig 2 illustrate the two main types of spreader boxes

Individual entry spreader boxes are designed to allow the sheath of larger cables to be stripped back so that the single insulated conductor can enter the enclosure This facilitates good termination of the conductors without tight radiuses or undue stress on the terminations

Multi-cable spreader boxes, or extension boxes as they are sometimes called, effectively extend the enclosure This allows the sheaths of multiple cables to be stripped back so that the enclosure, generally a CU, is free from masses of cable entries that can cause stress on the eventual terminations and from the issues associated with the close confines of switchgear

Although most of these pieces of equipment are designed to be used with a specific manufacturer’s enclosure, there are alternatives

Where a consumer unit, especially in a domestic setting, requires multiple armoured cables, simple trunking adequately installed can do the job just as effectively

Providing the correct lids and end plates are used, different trunking sizes can be re-purposed to provide a tidy interface between multiple cables and a CU/DB, especially for CU/DB changes, where space and existing cable lengths are challenging

If we look at Fig 3, we can see that a CU/DB has been installed using a section of 100 x 100 mm metallic trunking. Fitted

neatly along the top edge of the CU/DB, it provides a useful interface to terminate several armoured cables

This, in turn, allows the single insulated conductors of these types of cables to enter the CU neatly without causing any obstructions In the same way, flat twin and earth cables have also been installed this way, which stops the sheathes from cluttering the inside of the CU/DB

The following are some useful outcomes of this type of design for an installation practice:

l Removes unnecessary clutter from the CU/DB or enclosure

l Reduces stress on terminations and conductors

l Promotes air circulation and cooling for

terminations, conductors and devices within the main enclosure

l Allows clear identification and access for future periodic inspections

Although the example in Fig 3 uses metallic trunking as a spreader, because of the extra stress incurred by the armoured cable glands, this does not preclude the use of plastic trunking

Generally, plastic trunking is more than acceptable for utilisation in this way, especially where flat-sheathed cables, such as flat twin and earth used in domestic and less complex installations, are the only cables used in the installation

Using plastic trunking in this way isn’t a problem in domestic installations with metallic CUs as the trunking does not contain switchgear, and as such, it is not required to be of metallic construction, as is the CU

Conclusion

Something to remember, however, is that whenever a site-manufactured spreader/extension box is used in this way, it must be fit for purpose and include the correctly fitted end plates and trunking lid The key to a safe installation lies in its design. Without a solid understanding of design principles, we run the risk of falling short of the most basic requirements

Fig 1: Multi cable entry spreader box Fig

Fig 2: Individual cable entry spreader boxes

BE A BETTER BUSINESS MANAGER IN 2023

Owning a business takes you through the highest of highs and the lowest of lows You’re taking huge personal risk on a daily basis and on top of that you’re responsible for the actions of everyone in your company Of course, there can be huge rewards to reap, but the long and short of it is that it starts and ends with you, the way you build and lead your business, and you can always improve on that.

2023 could be another difficult year for businesses, but here are five tips that can help you to be a better business manager:

1. Put structure, systems and policies in place

Without good structure, systems and policies your business has little chance to

grow. A big reason trade business owners ‘burn out’ is that it’s easy to fall prey to the false perception that you need to be everywhere at once: quotes and invoices can’t be sent out without you checking over them, the job can’t be finished without you looking over it, and so on What you should be doing is building a business that works for you, not the other way around

The way to do this is by setting up policies, systems and processes that are black and white and leave little room for interpretation These include your materials management policy, your customer service promise, your company values etc If anything goes wrong in a business it’s usually because there’s an issue with the systems or the structure or procedure that the business is built on, and that’s what needs your attention

2. Invest in your team

The first step here is hiring the right people with the right attitude If you’re hiring individuals who are not up to scratch because they were a bit cheaper and the rest of your team have to pick up the slack, it hurts the productivity of the team as a whole and they will probably resent you for it

The next step is to onboard them properly and make sure they understand your systems, processes and values. For instance, if one of them turns up on a job and he/she hasn’t really slept but didn’t know that your company values are safety and high-performance, is that your fault or theirs? The answer is probably both

The last step is to train them Training is a great way to show that you care about employees’ mental and professional

James Chillman, UK Country Manager for Fergus, gives PE readers five ultimate leadership tips for trade business owners.

wellbeing on a personal level and also to show that you’re going out of your way to help them grow Moreover, if you don’t train your people, you’re never going to get the best out of them

3. Have confidence in yourself and try new things

If you doubt yourself sometimes and you’re not overly confident about running or managing your business, here’s a tip: practically no one is Most tradespeople don’t have a business background and even those who do are never really 100% sure things are going to work out But if your default is to doubt things will work, you can be sure they won’t pan out.

If you don’t believe in yourself and your business, you can bet your bottom dollar you’ll see it affect your staff, your productivity and your profitability Having said that, everyone goes through periods of self-doubt, it’s in our nature So if you are feeling down on the company, don’t let your staff see it and definitely don’t take it out on them Talk to your friends or

other business owners who’ve been through the same things You’ll be blown away by how many other people have been through the same problems and found a way around it

4. Accept responsibility for everything that happens in your business

This is an easy one If someone makes a grave error in your business, you have to be ok with that Delegation is an essential part of growing your business and other people are rarely going to do things exactly the way you want it But, if someone slips up again and again, the consequences are on you It sounds tough but if the process is broken, fix it and if the person can’t be helped, let them go.

5 Know your numbers, know your business

Most business owners will hate this one, because most of us know it’s something we should be doing and it will never be more relevant than it is today Too often, we shuffle a Profit/Loss or cashflow

forecast to the back of our minds and convince ourselves that we have more important things to do If we’re being honest, most of us are just a bit scared to look or don’t know what to look at

The reality is nothing is more empowering for a business leader than getting a firm grip on your finances because it gives you the ability to make strategic decisions for your company If you’re a little bit in the dark on where your numbers are, download a free cashflow forecast template from the internet and fill it out

In summary, you don’t need to be the best at everything to be a better leader The most effective leaders largely achieve results because of the people and structures they place around them But you do need to look after your team, be someone they can respect and, more than anything, you need to back yourself

LOCKOUT, TAGOUT & SAFE ISOLATION

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

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

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

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

In practice, this means not only cutting off the supply but also ensuring the method of disconnection is secured in the OFF position and a caution notice or label

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

of

safe isolation, Lockout and Tagout.

is posted at the point of disconnection

HSE Statistics

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

The number of fatalities did drop

ISOLATE, BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE!

STEP 1: Check with the user that the supply is safe to isolate

STEP 2: Prove that your voltage indicator operates correctly with an approved proving unit

STEP 3: Test the circuit that you are isolating is powered off by performing the following combination of checks: Line-Neutral, Line-Earth and Earth-Neutral

STEP 4: Re-prove that your voltage indicator operates correctly with your proving unit

STEP 5: Refit the cover on the distribution board, Lockout and Tagout

STEP 6: Re-test again on the circuit that you are working on to confirm it is safely isolated.

dramatically during 2019 and 2020 due to Covid-19, however, this does translate that you have roughly a 1 in 22 chance of being fatally injured if you are involved in an electrical incident in the UK To put this into a little more perspective, this is a dramatic difference compared to the 1 in 500 from other causes

As well as electric shock, other electrically related injuries arise from burns, arcing and fires Many of the injuries can take a long while to heal and often result in life-changing conditions

Safe isolation procedures

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

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

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

”The practice of placing insulating tape over a circuit breaker is not an adequate or acceptable means of securing the device in the OFF position ”

Proving dead isolated equipment or circuits.

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

The test lamp or voltage detector should be proven to be working on a

Lockout Tagout (LOTO)

The Di-LOG range of ‘Lockout Kits’ are designed with safety, versatility and affordability in mind With the entry-level DLLOC1 – Personal Lockout Kit, you get a 38mm steel padlock, a universal MCB lock, a standard ‘pins-out’ MCB lock and a warning tag

The higher the level of the kit the more features are included. By adding items such as multiple isolation lockout hasps the kits enable multiple persons to work on the same circuit, with the ability to hold up to six lockout padlocks

The DLLOC3 – Professional and DLLOC4 – Expert kits provide more scope to safely isolate a broader range of MCBs and main switches Items such as the larger universal MCB lockout device, large main switch lockout device, a fully insulated padlock and hasp, ensure all commercial and industrial applications are covered.

known live source or a proprietary proving unit. All line, neutral, and protective conductors should be tested to prove they are dead

Electricians who regularly work on installations that have been energised should be equipped with devices for proving that conductors are dead Di-LOG’s latest range of safety equipment for working on LV Electrical Equipment includes an array of Lockout Kits, ranging from a simple single MCB ‘Personal Lockout Kit’ for isolation of individual circuits to the industrial ‘Expert Lockout Kit’ with mostly fully insulated lockout devices for virtually all individual and main sources of energisation

ecent changes to The Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) which sets out the minimum requirements for a business to be recognised as technically competent by a Certification or Registration Body, includes a requirement for businesses to maintain appropriate records of qualifications, training (including Continuing Professional Development) and experience.

To support this requirement, EVERY ELEX seminar is now CPD accredited, ensuring those individuals who make the time and effort to attend will receive a direct certificate of completion, which can

form a key part of your ongoing Continuing Professional Development record.

With industry regulation and legislation changing constantly, the extensive ELEX seminar programme will cover an array of topics, including the latest Amendment 2 to the 18th Edition and the changes this covers, along with best practice and technical advice for professionals to get stuck into. Presentations will be delivered by experts in their field and the only cost to delegates is their time.

All seminars will take place in the IET Seminar Theatre located centrally in the exhibition hall and there’s no need for delegates to pre-book, just pre-register to attend the show.

Whether you need some advice on the direction the sector is heading, want to chat with manufacturers about their latest solutions, view live demonstrations of the latest products or bag yourself a great

show deal on tools and equipment from leading brands, your regional ELEX tradeshow has it all.

ELEX’s first stop is at the Bolton Arena on March 9th and 10th, with visits to Alexandra Palace, Harrogate, Coventry, Exeter and Surrey later in the year.

The Ideal 33-856 VDV tester is a really simple tool to use It must be because it took me just five minutes to get to grips with it!

VDV stands for Voice, Data and Video and the unit tests end-to-end wiring, continuity and correct wiring. It is suitable for testing twisted pair, coaxial and phone type cables

The unit feels robust and has three buttons to select which type of cable you are testing A small remote unit unplugs from the base of the tester and can be plugged into one end of the cable under test, whilst the other end is connected to the cable tester Testing occurs automatically and is clearly indicated on the screen.

Video/coaxial cable testing will check for open or short circuits and utilises a link out connector which is conveniently housed in the remote base When used on data and phone cables it will check for shorts, opens, out of order wires, reversals, and errors with split pairs

While testing leads can literally be

“A HANDY TOOL THAT WON’T BREAK THE BANK”

achieved with the handheld unit, outlets require the use of a proven fly lead so buyers may consider buying this unit as part of a kit which also comes with a range of connectors and fly leads to permit the testing of a range of outlets and coaxial leads. Alternatively, you can do what I did and make some up pretty easily yourself

Another useful feature that I found with this unit is the ability to put a tone signal onto a cable Again, the tester can be coupled with an amplifier probe to permit the tracing and identifying of cables that may be muddled up in large unlabelled bundles This is a real time saver!

Although this product is a little more expensive than some of the cheaper testers that utilise sequences of illuminated LED indicators, this handy tool certainly won’t break the bank and gives the user a much clearer read out of the faults If you’re involved with domestic or small commercial wiring of VDV systems this unit will prove to be worth every penny

Pete (Monty) Monfort, Director at Arena Training Centre and Monty Electrics, tries out the Ideal 33-856 VDV Tester.

SHARING THE LOAD

He describes himself as an electrician first and foremost, having worked on the tools for over ten years More recently, however, Mike Page has developed a reputation as a businessman and entrepreneur after setting up his company, Loadout, which specialises in the supply of hand tools, tool storage, test equipment and workwear

The idea came to him after he began sharing a lot of content of product tests and reviews online, which led to a growing number of followers that were keen to hear what a qualified electrician had to say and wanted to get hold of the products he was demonstrating

Having moved from sending links to sites where his followers could buy the products, he set up his own business, Loadout, to get products direct from the suppliers to the end users As the business grew, the need for a dedicated facility became evident

Earlier this year saw the opening of Loadout’s brand new headquarters in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, a unit which

comprises office space, a showroom and an extensive warehouse facility Having initially used drop shipping to get products directly from suppliers to end users, Mike took the decision to take full control of the whole process to provide the best customer service possible to his clients

The new warehouse facility allows him to hold vast quantities of stock on the premises and offer next day delivery.

A well known face on Scolmore’s YouTube channel, SGTV, and a long-time fan of Scolmore products, Mike opted for solutions from across the group to kit out the entire premises

Click wiring accessories, Ovia light fittings and emergency lighting, and fire detection products from ESP, have all been installed.

Products that are easy to install

At the entrance to the unit products from the Click Essentials Metal Clad range can be seen Perimeter trunking running through the premises

houses a range of sockets, fused spurs and switches from the range

Mike comments: “I’ve installed Metal Clad for years as an electrician These accessories are extremely hardwearing and very reasonably priced They also work well with the military/industrial look we were aiming to achieve with the fit out ”

Two-wire fire protection

When it came to securing the premises with the appropriate fire alarm system, Mike worked with the design team at ESP

Electrician turned businessman, Mike Page, kits out his new Loadout headquarters with Scolmore Group products.

to come up with the most appropriate scheme ESP’s MagDuo two-wire fire system was selected

Mike explains: “I knew enough about fire systems to install it and with MagDuo it was really easy to set up ESP were great in ensuring we had the right system and products for the coverage we needed and to satisfy my insurance requirements for the building.

“We have a zone plan which shows the layout of the building and clearly highlights the separate fire alarm zones to help evacuations in an emergency situation Most electricians know the regs, and how to install the products, but when it comes to zone plans and design schematics, for example, this is an added benefit of the ESP service.”

Self-test saves time and money

Just above the door at the entrance to the unit is one of Ovia’s 3W LED emergency maintained exit signs “I’m so used to the bulky, brick style emergency lights and I love this slimline version It’s got lots of knock-outs, making it conduit compatible,” says Mike

“My favourite thing about this exit sign is the light below. When you’re locking up at night when it’s dark and you turn the lights, you still have that little bit of light I keep it maintained for that reason ”

Ovia’s emergency twin spots have also been installed with the self-test versions chosen In the event of loss of power, these will come on and illuminate the

warehouse

“What’s cool about these ones is the self-test element”, says Mike “I was here the other day and they just kicked in to run the self-test one after the other –another great time saving feature ”

The warehouse is very well lit with four of Ovia’s powerful 100W Grus highbays. “I was working in the warehouse in darkness for a couple of months when we were renovating the place We ony had the use of site lights before the highbays were installed It now feels like we have drenched the place in light,” Mike says

“We had a site visit from one of the Ovia lighting designers to assess our requirements and then a scheme was worked up with the correct positions and spacing for the lights to deliver the best possible light output. The highbays are very adaptable and we used brackets to secure them directly to the concrete They worked really well like that with the way the ceiling is pitched and its much easier than fiddling with hooks and a jack chain to secure them”

Showroom security

Showcasing some of the products he supplies is the new showroom, which also incorporates a studio area where Mike films videos for the business Featuring CCTV cameras for security, the system used to protect all aspects of the premises, inside and out, is ESP’s Rekor IP CCTV system A total of six cameras have been installed, covering the office area, the warehouse and showroom and

the exterior

Mike explains: “I haven’t done a lot of CCTV to be honest, but this was just so easy to install You literally just crimp the ends and plug them in The cameras all go back to the Rekor HDView NVR which has 4TB of storage and, again, is very easy to use.”

Inceptor Slate LED panels have been installed in the showroom and Mike chose to have these suspended rather than surface mounted, as it worked better with the structure of the building and the positioning of the rafters “They’re really adaptable, and I like the floating aspect they create,” he says

“The diffuser spreads the light which works well in this showroom and studio environment. We do filming here for YouTube and Instagram and needed it to be bright but not flooded with light and these are also dimmable which gives us more control ”

Commenting on the overall job, Mike says: “I’m really happy with how everything has turned out With the help of the design teams at Ovia and ESP we have the best products and solutions for all aspects of the business here – power, lighting and security. We wanted to create a military aesthetic throughout the unit and all the products work well to help achieve this ”

“IT’S ALMOST LIKE THEY’RE NOT THERE”

One of the biggest revolutions that we’ve seen in ‘installed’ products over the last few years has been the various metal cable/containment supports that have appeared on the market in order to help our work to comply with the latest regulations – especially around fire safety

I’ve personally tried a number of products from different manufacturers in recent times and one of the best solutions I’ve found that will fulfil this regulation change is LINIAN’s range of cable clips.

I’ll admit that, at first, I thought the clips might be a bit of a ‘gimmick’ product After using them in multiple different installations and scenarios, I’ve realised just how very wrong I was! This is a product that is here to stay, making the lives of electricians and data/CCTV/alarm installers much easier at the same time

The hidden gem

The clips are so unobtrusive that I’ve had clients asking where the supports on the conduit/cable are after I’ve used these clips on the installation It’s at this point that they realise that the clips actually blend in perfectly with the cable/containment – a welcome change from the client complaining that the conduit looks rough and stands out like a

sore thumb Instead, they have the impression that the installer takes pride in their work, and cares about the end result for the client.

As I’ve gained more experience with using the clips, I’ve found a real time-saving application that will be a huge bonus for most electricians: you simply drill a row of holes into the item you’re looking to fix and then place the clips one-by-one into the pre-drilled holes

This provides you with a consistent, neatly finished installation without having to go through the tedious task of unscrewing (and potentially losing) the little screws from a conduit saddle, or having to install red plugs and then counting out screws for the number of fixings required With these LINIAN clips, all you need is the bag of fixings and an appropriately sized drill bit and the world is your oyster

I would recommend that you wear a pair of gloves when installing or removing the clips from cable/conduit, as they have spiked prongs that hold them in place once installed and will provide an even stronger fixing

Another nice feature with the LINIAN clips is that they’re currently produced and available to match all the popular colours and sizes of cable and conduit They’re also coated with a salt-spray tested and UV stable finish to minimise the sort of

discolouration that can occur over time in harsh environments

Overall, I’ve been really impressed with the LINIAN fire-rated cable clips Their design has clearly been thought out with the electrician at the forefront of the process, and they’ll provide you and your client with the added piece of mind that your installations will be compliant with the latest regulations

Steve Hewish, Approved Electrician at Turrell Electrical Contractors, reviews the LINIAN fire-rated cable clips.

All LED is fighting ‘Fit’ for modern gym

In the latter half of 2022, All LED was approached by a local wholesaler to supply strip lighting and profile for a project at The Fit Factory, a brand new ultra-modern boxing and fitness facility in Cockfosters

The Fit Factory was an idea hatched by Chris and Andreas Evangelou Chris and Andreas both trained as boxers and have competed across the world at an Olympic standard, winning many gold medals Having trained at some of the most prestigious gyms around the world with elite coaches, their ideas grew. The brothers were inspired to create a family run boxing-based fitness gym that would offer something unique for customers to use

The facility was originally designed to be a clean looking, modern, inviting space that also used lighting at its core to provide as much sensory motivation as possible – the idea that much like sound and motivating music, the lighting should also play its part in creating an environment ideally suited to the gym’s concept

A huge challenge was set by the owners as the business’ grand opening was relatively close to the renovation date and the owners demanded that all parties meet their strict deadline of opening the gym in time for the grand opening

All LED, The Evangelou brothers, and the electrical contractors, Senna Izzit and Neil Chapple of NAC Electrical Services, all got together to assist in creating a superb look and, more importantly, an organised and concise execution of a large product The lighting concept was created by Tim Dorow who, along with All LED, decided the ideal look would be to have beams of light emanating from the ceilings and walls of the fitness studio, by using a combination of All LED’s Stealth Profile and 10-Watt 4000K Pro-Range LED Strip A key challenge was to keep the modern look and not detract from the overall boxing theme

Whole walls were covered with different lengths of recessed plaster in LED strip profiles to create a striking and modern look, whilst keeping the minimalist and functional look of a modern gym The space can only described as ‘electric’ – the lighting coupled with the superb sound system really creates an energetic, enthusiastic and motivating environment for people

to make the most of each visit The lighting effect across the walls and ceiling of the fitness studio is created using a combination of All LED’s Stealth Profile and 10 Watt/M 24V 4000K Pro-Range LED Strip The Stealth profile is recessed and plaster-in, creating a dot-less effect of light, and with this angular design it creates a striking effect without being blinding – even at eye-level.

Using All LED’s next day delivery service, the goods were delivered to site labelled and organised by area By taking advantage of the LED strip bespoke service, the installers were able to have each length of LED strip individually tailored to suit the installation The bespoke service is undertaken here in the UK by expert technicians where each strip length is measured, cut, soldered, quality controlled and individually packed/labelled for a smooth install This really helped the contractors to organise themselves and minimise labour on-site prior to and during the installation

ALL LED

Caterham GU10 Lamp w/ OptiDim Technology

The brand-new Caterham GU10 lamp – All LED’s newest eco-friendly, low consumption, high output, retrofittable GU10 lamp –benefits additionally from OptiDim Technology, an advanced and highly engineered dimming technology that allows the lamp to smoothly dim to zero with no flicker or strobing The product boasts 99 1% compatibility with dimmer switches and, better still, the lamps are prepacked in boxes of 10, saving the countless hours wasted unpacking lamps on jobsites, whilst making clean-up practically non-existent Its patented low waste, labour saving, recycled and plastic free packaging which itself doubles up as its own display unit, ensures major issues revolving around climate change can be addressed The Caterham lamp at its core is a 4 7W GU10 LED lamp and comes available in four different colour temperatures; 2700K, 3000K, 4000K and 6500K, saving over 90% on energy when compared to a standard GU10 For every 1,000,000 units, All LED has calculated a CO2 reduction of 3200kg in carbon emissions, a 33% reduction in shipping volume and transportation carbon footprint, a 33% reduction in shelf space for users and 35% less packaging waste created as a result of this revolutionary new product.

ATC

Electric Heating Range

With energy costs rising and temperatures dropping, heating is a concern for all One way of keeping heating bills to a minimum is by choosing electric heating over gas or other fossil fuels The ATC heating range offers key energy saving features to ensure that users don’t consume more electricity than is needed – keeping bills low and spirits high! There’s a wide selection of products to choose from, including WiFi heaters, digital panel heaters, radiant heaters, bathroom heaters, commercial heaters, smart thermostats and controllers By pairing the products with one of ATC’s thermostats you can also offer simple, seamless control

If you need support with energy efficient heating designs, contact ATC’s Technical Team at: technical@atcelec co uk

CED ELECTRICAL Airmaster Bathroom Downflow Heater

The new Airmaster Bathroom Downflow Heater is a fan heater packed with in-use benefits, adding a new dimension to the established Airmaster fan heater range Finished in white with a durable plastic body, this highly attractive circular fan heater is for wall mounting and features two heat control levels at 1,400W or 2,000W. It’s a PTC self-regulating fan heater with automatic overheat control, boasting a 1 to 8 hour timer, 15 to 35˚ heat adjustability and a remote controller The product is IP24 rated, Lot 20 compliant, CE and UKCA approved and comes with a 12-month warranty With a diameter of 300mm and depth of just 130mm, this neat and compact heater is ideal for bath or shower rooms.

LUCECO

Lighting Controls & Solutions Guide

Luceco has recently launched a new publication demonstrating the range and diversity of its lighting control systems. As controls become standard in many new lighting installations, Luceco also provides solutions for refurbishments in existing infrastructure Lighting controls can often seem a daunting prospect with the emergence of convoluted control systems and ever-evolving terminology. With multiple platforms available, it can become perplexing to the client, who has a clear end goal in mind. Luceco understands the importance of allowing the end user to control their own space – whether a small office or multiple estates

Available from Switchtec are a range of flexible conduit, glands and accessories manufactured by DKC.

Flexible conduit is commonly used in general factory wiring for connections to machinery but also commonly used for protecting installations within the Oil & Gas, Marine, Aviation, Healthcare, Food Hygiene, Commercial Contracting, Security, Data, Machinery and Transport industries, or for general use where mechanical protection is required

DKC’s flexible galvanized steel conduit systems extensively protects electrical power, lighting and data cable from impact, vibration, movement, corrosion, and water ingress. The galvanised steel core is helically wound and manufactured using DKC’s reinforced internal locking mechanism, manufactured to tight tolerances to ensure a smooth core for easy pulling of cables

This unique mechanism gives the DKC flexible conduit excellent mechanical protection properties yet can be flexed past the splitting point of many other solutions available on the market The galvanized steel maintains electrical continuity and is vacuum coated in tough flame retardant black or grey PVC which is resistant to most common oils and greases.

The flexible conduit is also available in plain galvanised steel, with EVA or polyurethane coverings which are halogen free, low smoke and low toxicity. The DKC steel flexible conduit systems perform in a wide variety of harsh environmental conditions including extremes of temperature, dust, salinity, and UV

The flexible conduit provides high mechanical protection from impact and

water ingress It is rated to IP54 when used in conjunction with the DKC nickel plated brass straight fixed glands However, if coupled with DKC’s Max IP range of nickel plated brass glands, the IP rating can be increased to IP69

Connect more with ‘Rapid Fit’ Coupling

To complement this range is DKC’s patented ‘Rapid Fit’ Quick Connect Coupling which is an innovative jointing system allowing the fast, easy and reliable connection between flexible steel conduit and rigid steel pipe conduit The Rapid Fit Quick Connect Coupling uses a spring-loaded coupler which is attached to the flexible conduit and allows the pipe conduit to be quickly inserted with a simple ‘push & click’

The connection is made within seconds and the joint itself can guarantee an ingress protection of IP67 It removes the necessity to have to thread or bend pipe conduit, a time-consuming process in traditional installations, and allows the

installer to jump through or around obstacles quickly and connect again to another pipeline or connect into a terminal box Other accessories which also use the Rapid Fit Quick Connect Coupling include a box-pipe connector, box-flexible conduit connector, and pipe-to-pipe connector

Additionally, the DKC conduit saddles, used to support flexible or pipe conduit, are designed for fast installation They allow the installer to push the pipe in and with a ‘click’ will self-support the conduit without the need to tighten any screw.

All of these features of the DKC flexible conduit, glands and accessories are designed to speed up the installation of conduit systems This in turn reduces overall installation time and therefore reduces labour costs

SNICKERS WORKWEAR

Winter Jackets

If you’re working outside in cold, wet or windy weather for long periods, work gets tough That’s when you’ll need to keep safe from the elements with your own protective shell, such as Snickers Workwear’s winter jackets This kind of product will deliver effective wind and water protection to keep you warm, dry and ensure the effectiveness of the clothing underneath You’ll want to avoid getting too warm, so insulation combined with ventilation features in your jackets are absolutely vital It’s also worth checking out the new FlexiWork quilted jacket, which is windproof, water-repellent and designed to be durable and weatherproof for great technical functionality

HELLERMANNTYTON

Vario Plate

Retrofits, repairs and maintenance can be completed easily and quickly with the HellermannTyton Vario Plate, designed to give customers working with control panels and enclosures a quicker and tidier method for installing cables With flexible mini frames and rubber grommets that can be changed to match different varieties of cables and applications, the product provides a professional alternative to conventional cable glands, ultimately making the task as simple as possible for electrical installers and panel builders to get the job done quickly and efficiently An ideal solution for cables with connectors due to its split system, the Vario Plate allows for up to 40 cables per frame and has easy reassembly along with cut-out sizes of the enclosure up to 54 x 115mm so that the user can dismantle and reassemble the frame to suit their specific needs The optional mounting aid and integrated seal protect the Vario Plates’ IP65 and IP66 ratings for protection against dust and water entering the enclosure, whilst the separate strain relief ensures that the cables can be secured into place using cable ties without the risk of strain or pulling

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Anthracite & Smoked Bronze Options

With matt black finishes on electrical accessories becoming increasingly popular in domestic and commercial installations, Knightsbridge is offering designers and contractors a wider range of darker shades with Anthracite and Smoked Bronze All Knightsbridge’s wiring devices and accessories are now available in these aesthetic finishes, from sockets, switches, media and communication outlets, combination and multimedia plates; plus modular gridplates, all including screwless options. To complement them, a curated collection of lighting accessories is also finished in both Anthracite and Smoked Bronze, including ceiling pendants, and LED wall lights, including up/down options Most Knightsbridge wiring devices and accessories are supported by a 25-year warranty, while the lighting products are warrantied for between two- and five-years, depending on model

CONSORT CLAUDGEN

Air Curtain Controller

Consort Claudgen has launched an optional touchscreen controller for its CA Screenzone air curtains. The Air Curtain Master Controller (ACMC) is designed with energy-saving features to help minimise heat loss from a building by creating an effective barrier between indoor and outdoor environments The ACMC has four different modes to suit commercial or retail applications Additionally, door contacts or occupancy sensors can be installed to further enhance the energy-saving function by enabling the air curtain only when the door is open and then disabling it when the door is closed. The ACMC provides 8 x heat settings, 8 x fan speeds and can control up to 7 x air curtains with the same settings It has a 7-day timer and displays energy usage of all connected air curtains With proper installation and heating control, a comfortable and consistent indoor climate can be maintained while minimising heat loss, which can lead to significant cost savings

Make light work of it with ROBUS

ROBUS is kicking off the new year with a bang by announcing a raft of great lighting solutions that are all featured in the latest product catalogue

Some of the highlights include:

SPEEDBEAM IP20 BATTEN

The SPEEDBEAM IP20 batten is a versatile, and discreet range of general purpose IP20 luminaires. Boasting lumen packages from 1250 to 9750, its ultra-slim design and clean white lines ensure that the SPEEDBEAM offers a contemporary and subtle lighting solution A plug-in emergency pack and microwave sensor is available

VEGAS LONG RUN

Joining ROBUS’s popular VEGAS range, the VEGAS LONG RUN comes ready to install up to 30m, only needing one power supply, reducing design time and complexity

BLADE DUAL TEST 4W SUSPENDED EXIT SIGN

Utilising highly efficient LiFePO4 batteries, this dual test exit sign allows selection between manual and self-test, giving customers flexibility and reliable illumination

CARINA 2W EMERGENCY DOWNLIGHT

This versatile emergency downlight comes complete with two lenses and an extension ring to suit different cut outs It is dual test, uses a LiFePO4 battery and has a wide beam angle

SPEEDBEAM PLUS IP20 BATTEN

The SPEEDBEAM PLUS IP20 batten has all the great features and design of the SPEEDBEAM, but with the added benefit of a CCT3 selectable feature and dual wattage, making this a configurable batten option. A plug-in emergency pack and microwave sensor is also available

VEGAS

EXPRESS

The VEGAS Express flexi strips are now available in 1m, 3m and 5m pre-cut, pre-wired lengths This hassle free and easy solution is a go-to for any strip project.

MACAU COB 7W LED FLEXI STRIP

The leading flexible LED strip from ROBUS is perfect for ambient lighting The chip-on-board strip offers the same dot less effect with softer illumination

MACAU COB 14W RGB LED FLEXI STRIP

The renowned MACAU COB has a new addition to the range and comes in a beautiful RGB strip, providing a constant stream of colourful light

AVIOR 3W SURFACE EMERGENCY DOWNLIGHT

This energy efficient emergency downlight is the ideal solution for public and commercial use Complete with a LiFePO4 battery, this surface mounted emergency downlight will earn its keep

WEBRO

Norden Brand Partnership

Webro Cables & Connectors has been appointed as the Pan-European distribution partner for Norden connectivity and security solutions whose impressive brand portfolio includes NCS, Eyenor, Secnor and NVS With its team of dedicated experts that have over 350 years of combined industry experience, Webro will work in partnership with Norden to drive value-engineered solutions into the UK & Europe Webro is fully stocked with the latest network and surveillance product offering across Norden’s multiple brands, that include cabling infrastructure, video surveillance systems and access controls Ahead of the official market launch, the Webro team has undergone extensive training with Norden to ensure outstanding customer service

SCOLMORE

Equipotential Bonding Busbars

Scolmore continues to build its portfolio of products and solutions dedicated to healthcare settings, with the introduction of a range of Equipotential Bonding Busbars (EBBs) In accordance with the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671:2018 AMD2 Section 710 (Medical Locations) and the Health Technical Memorandum HTM06 01:2017, all Group 1 and 2 Medical Locations are to have an Equipotential Bonding Busbar (EBB) and associated supplementary protective equipotential bonding installed The EBB plays a major role in ensuring patient and clinician safety, as a key component of the supplementary protective equipotential bonding system which is designed to substantially reduce touch voltages between exposed and extraneous conductive parts located within or that may be moved into the patient environment of Group 1 and 2 medical locations EBBs are installed within or immediately outside the medical locations they serve The product development team at Scolmore identified the need for an EBB that offered a simple design, with an easy to terminate layout and featured the right number of terminations for their applications within different medical locations The result is the launch of an 18 connection Type 1 EBB and 40 connection Type 2 EBB. The EEBs are supplied with a smooth, flat, one-piece lid with semi recessed cover screws and rounded corners that provides an easy to clean surface Scolmore has also added Supplementary Equipotential Bonding Connection Points to the range They’re supplied in the Click Mode antimicrobial plate and are available in 1- and 2-gang plates

RF SOLUTIONS

LoRa Version BOGEYBOX

The RF Solutions BOGEYBOX allows the electrical installer to turn any volt-free/no-volt input into a remote control transmitter, capable of wirelessly switching a paired receiver output over a huge distance away The new LoRa version of BOGEYBOX means any volt-free buttons, switches or other inputs can achieve a wireless switching range of up to 5KM line of sight Installers can now choose whether to power the box from 3 x AAA batteries, allowing for deployment anywhere, or via a 5 - 15V permanent power supply, meaning minimum maintenance is required. Finally, BOGEYBOX now has an optional ‘Acknowledgement’ feature When enabled, this will alert the end user if the transmitter inputs have successfully operated its paired relay outputs; perfect when switching relays over a long distance and applications you cannot see

C AM E RA CAUGHT ON

SOCIAL SNAPS!

ANDREW STAINES: When the previous homeowner decided they wanted the TV just that little bit more flush

WMG ELECTRICAL: This will probably explain the car park lights tripping out!

AC ELECTRICS: Customer’s downlights weren’t working after a ‘friend’ had changed them We checked the new transformer to find this inside

TIME ELECTRICAL SERVICES: We found this beauty in an attic that was about to be renovated

DANNY HARMSWORTH: We came across this on a recent job: a solar installer took the power for the solar consumer unit distribution board straight off the mains tails RCD RCCB with no overcurrent fusing, using 2 5mm pvc twin and earth cable – very dangerous I think!

PETE KING: This is an extension lead plug that the customer had been using for the last ten years! No Earth and the conductors were pulled/twisted so all current was on a single strand Did someone say ‘fire/death trap’?

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.

ALL LED Ltd ....................................inside front cover www.rdr.link/EAN100

ATC Electrical ...................................................page 41 www.rdr.link/EAN101

British Antarctic Survey ...............................page 55 www.rdr.link/EAN102

Castline Systems ............................................page 58 www.rdr.link/EAN103

Consort Equipment Products Ltd .............page 58 www.rdr.link/EAN104

C-TEC Ltd ..........................................................page 27 www.rdr.link/EAN105

Di-LOG Test Equipment ...............................page 20 www.rdr.link/EAN106

D-Line (Europe) Ltd ........................................page 57 www.rdr.link/EAN107

Electrorad U.K. Ltd ...........................................page 9 www.rdr.link/EAN108

ELEX ....................................................................page 47 www.rdr.link/EAN109

Elite Security Products Ltd ..........................page 57 www.rdr.link/EAN110

Hydra EVC Ltd.................................................page 35 www.rdr.link/EAN111

LED Group ...........................................................page 6 www.rdr.link/EAN112

Live Electrical Distribution UK Ltd ..............page 4 www.rdr.link/EAN113

Megger Ltd ........................................................page 13 www.rdr.link/EAN114

Metrel UK Ltd ..................................................page 32 www.rdr.link/EAN115

NICEIC .................................................................page 41 www.rdr.link/EAN116

Ovia Lighting ...................................................page 55 www.rdr.link/EAN117

Prefect Controls Ltd ......................................page 57 www.rdr.link/EAN118

Quickwire Ltd ...................................................page 10 www.rdr.link/EAN119 rdr.link ..............................................inside back cover www.rdr.link/EAN120

Rointe ..................................................................page 19 www.rdr.link/EAN121

Rolec Services Ltd ..........................................page 16 www.rdr.link/EAN122

Scolmore International Ltd..........................page 44 www.rdr.link/EAN123

S.E.C Solutions Ltd ........................................page 63 www.rdr.link/EAN124

Selectric .............................................................page 27 www.rdr.link/EAN125

Sevadis ..............................................................page 23 www.rdr.link/EAN126

Switchtec Ltd ...................................................page 44 www.rdr.link/EAN127

The Electrical Academy ...............................page 55 www.rdr.link/EAN128

UNICRIMP Ltd .................................................page 58 www.rdr.link/EAN129

V-TAC UK Ltd ..............................outside back cover www.rdr.link/EAN130

Wise Controls ..................................................page 63 www.rdr.link/EAN131

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(even if y down) and I was pleased to rece certificate on completion once I’d finished.

if he as xam to or this online l have update take the round. to be rised at owing me

In my opinion, this type of online training is a far less intense experience than the pressure of the classroom, and allows you to fit the training around your day job, rather than the other way around. One slight drawback is that you have to book the follow-up C&G exam through a separate training provider (which can sometimes be a few months after, depending on the availability that particular provider has), so it would be nice if you could complete the exam as part of this online training so that everything is fresh in your mind.

I certainly feel much more confident about the requirements of the Regulations now and am pleased to say that I also