Professional Electrician & Installer September 2023

YOU

Regulars

Products & Business Solutions

85 Why Fergus’ business management software now has a ‘plan’ for every size of organisation

86 What process is involved with bringing new products to the market which specifically serve the needs of commercial installations?

88 Could Guardian really be an industry angel?

22 The Selectric brand continues to grow with the times

Special Reports

25 Why it’s crucial for fire safety businesses to upskill their staff and actively consider apprenticeships

29 We find out more about one electrician’s quest to increase the number of candidates that are moving from the coalface of the industry and into teaching

33 What’s behind the growing importance of EV charging qualifications?

The CPD Zone

38 NAPIT’s Richard Townsend ‘codebreaks’ more of the latest reader submissions

41 Recommendations around the use of insulation piercing connectors on meter tails

44 The requirements that apply to the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency lighting systems

47 Which cable management system do you need to select to avoid corrosion in certain environments?

50 Understanding the detail behind the May 2023 Corrigendum

52 What does the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) mean for EV installations?

54 The implications of voltage imbalance on the electrical supply of an installation

Why are ‘smart’ lighting systems trending?

Lighting

59 What impact does sleep deprivation and the quality of light really have on an individual’s health?

62 Why Aurora Lighting’s products have recently been selected for two high profile projects in Northern Ireland

64 Introducing Luceco Lighting’s new FType family of LED fire-rated downlights

67 How the use of ROBUS products has helped one of Ireland’s top universities to further enhance its green credentials

68 Putting the spotlight on commercial floodlight products that are proving a hit with installers

70 Finding out more about what the revamped Brackenheath portfolio has to offer

72 Taking a look at the top five most innovative products from the All LED stable

75 The importance of keeping joint boxes accessible in garden lighting installations

76 Exploring the reasons behind the recent surge in interest for ‘smart’ lighting systems

80 The environmental issues you need to consider ahead of your next outdoor lighting project

90 Why the use of remote video guidance can give your electrical business a competitive edge over others

93 Jeff Jones puts the Chauvin Arnoux PEL 104 Power Energy Logger through its paces

94 Steve Hewish dives into the latest version of the NAPIT Codebreakers publication

98 Which products have been specified, and where?

100 Rounding-up the newest products, tools and equipment to help you in your work

Competitions & Giveaways

35 WIN! Get your hands on a Draper XP1000 VDE 4-in-1 Combination Cutter

65 WIN! We have a 12 set of FType downlights to be won

69 WIN! A £200 multi-store voucher could be yours

83 WIN! Bag a Ring MAGflex Mini LED Inspection Lamp

Reviewing the Chauvin Arnoux PEL 104

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

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PCP TELFORD

Published by: HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP

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Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF

Tel: 01923 237799

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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

Subscriptions to PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN are available Please contact us for rates

The counter is still productive

If the pandemic taught us anything it’s that we are social creatures, and when basic levels of human interaction are denied us it can have a serious impact on our well-being

That’s not to say that digital channels of communication are not of equally vital importance either – and covid-19 certainly accelerated their adoption –but there is a balance to be struck, and it’s becoming increasingly apparent that electricians are finding it.

A recent report from NBG, a major buying group for independent merchants, included the results of a survey of UK tradespeople The research found that 92 per cent of trade sales continue to be made over the counter

Not only that, but digital tools are more often than not used to support and complement those in-person sales rather than replace them Research on new products, price checking, videos, reviews and business administration are the online activities of choice, but buying is still primarily undertaken at the electrical wholesaler

There are a whole range of factors that still draw tradespeople to their local wholesaler, and those who ply their trade in the sector will be all too aware of them.

Levels of customer service, product knowledge and advice are at much higher levels than you’ll find in other retail environments, and the best wholesalers work hard to ensure that their staff are well-informed when it comes to the available product ranges

Moreover, many electricians may well be on-site all day alone and in that context a trip to the wholesaler has a social element. Personal relationships can be forged, and electricians can feel part of a wider community

often overridden by other factors

The local electrician who generates new work on the basis of recommendation – and, as a consequence, is only as good as their last job – is far more concerned with quality, and suppliers that can provide solutions that won’t let them down are championed.

Trust becomes a real issue, and that’s more likely to be established with faceto-face contact, not just with individuals but with a hands-on experience of construction materials

As it has been for close to forty years PE is, of course, still available at your local electrical wholesaler trade counters. Like manufacturers and suppliers, however, we’ve worked hard to ensure that all the information, advice and support available in this and every other issue is available online and via email

Indeed, our publication is now available in any format or via any platform that our readers care to engage with, be it print or digital. Similarly, it is a hybrid blend of physical and non-physical which distinguishes the electrical wholesale sector and satisfies the unique needs of trade buyers

The spike in e-commerce that the pandemic precipitated is now well documented, and certainly saved many retail outlets from ruin. What is more intriguing in the construction industry is that almost as soon as tradespeople could get back to the wholesaler they did because, try as we might, there are some experiences that just can’t be replicated online.

Have a good month and enjoy the issue. We’ll see some of you at ELEX Coventry in a few weeks’ time

Image References (Adobe Stock):

Pg 11 Cash © Gourmetphotography

Pg 33 Electric Vehicle © Naypong Studio

Pg 44 Fire Escape © Ambrozinio

Pg 70 Circular Economy © Parradee

The primary motivating factors for consumer shopping online are convenience and price Whilst the latter will, of course, always be an important consideration for the trades as well, it is

New wage agreement for industry to start in 2024

The ECA and Unite the Union have agreed on a new two-year wage deal from January 2024 for the electrical contracting industry under the JIB collective agreement

Some of the key changes to be implemented include:

Year 1 – from 1 January 2024

l 7% increase to rates

l £20 increase to weekly sick pay for all grades during weeks 3 to 24, therefore providing:

l £210 per week for a Technician

l £200 per week for an Approved Electrician

l £190 per week for an Electrician

l £180 per week for others as defined in clause 1 3 note(a) of Section 9 of the JIB Handbook

l £10 increase to weekly sick pay for all grades (as above) during weeks 25 to 52.

Year 2 – from 6 January 2025

l 5% increase to rates

l £10,000 increase to death in service

benefit –up from £30,000 to £40,000

l A ‘recoupment’ arrangement for sick

pay – an arrangement to reimburse the second week of absence after an employee has been off sick for eight weeks

l 50p - £2 responsibility money – increased from 10p - £1

Other points agreed include:

l Lodging allowance will be increased on the anniversary dates in line with the usual process between JIB and HMRC using a formula set out by HMRC

l Agreement to review the level of remuneration payable to electrical installation apprentices and the position of electrical contracting wage levels

l There is an agreement to include wording in the handbooks to outline the current statutory pension arrangement

l There is also an agreement to amend the current wording in Section 4, clause 6 of the JIB Handbook to reflect a broader range of training courses

Domestic Electrician EWA now available

Domestic electricians who need to formally recognise their skills and experience now have a dedicated Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) route available to them.

The Domestic Electrician EWA is based on the same content as the Domestic Electrician apprenticeship standard, so both new entrants and existing workers are assessed and accredited to the same industry standard

To be eligible for the assessment, candidates need to be currently working as a domestic electrician with over 3 years’ experience They must also hold at least a Level 2 electrical technical qualification listed in the EWA ‘Skills Scan’, a document that has to be completed during the application

process for training providers to verify if the candidate has the relevant skills and knowledge to successfully complete the process

Once enrolled on the EWA, learners will have to achieve the Domestic Electrician Experienced Worker Qualification, which comprises five practical performance units, plus the BS 7671:2018 and full Inspection & Testing qualification A key benefit of the EWA is that existing qualifications can count towards the assessment and don’t need to be repeated.

After the qualification is gained, learners must undertake the AM2ED assessment, which mirrors the AM2D End Point Assessment taken by Domestic Electrician apprentices at the end of their training

ECA Chief Negotiator, Andrew Hutchins, said: “I’m pleased with the outcome of the negotiations This agreement gives us an opportunity to work with Unite on longer-term ambitions to update and modernise the industry to improve skills for a low carbon economy ”

The Joint Industry Board facilitated discussions between the two parties and has published full details of the agreement

The Domestic Electrician Experienced Worker Assessment follows in the footsteps of the EWA for Installation & Maintenance Electricians that was launched in 2020.

Achievement of the qualification, along with the AM2ED assessment, meets the qualification criteria for an ECS Domestic Electrician gold card application

GET MORE DETAILS ON THE DOMESTIC ELECTRICIAN EWA BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU002

New partner programme launched by Schneider

Schneider Electric has announced the launch of a new partner programme in the UK and Ireland

The Contractor Programme offers online resources and digital tools via the mySchneider portal to help contractors quickly and efficiently meet customer demands. It also offers opportunities to generate more business as well as training to support sales activities, and advice on sustainable solutions.

In addition to the above, it includes the following benefits, depending on whether the contractor is a Registered, Premier or Premier Plus customer:

l Personalised news, information and promotions

l Advanced commercial and technical support

l Digital platforms and tools

l Training and education resources

l Invitations to Schneider Electric local partner events

l Partner Locator listing

l EcoXpert badge eligibility

l Hands-on training

challenges: firstly, demands for more electrification to reduce the usage of fossil fuels; secondly, an increase in cybersecurity; and thirdly, demands from the market for multi-directional energy supplies

GET MORE DETAILS ON THE MYSCHNEIDER CONTRACTOR PROGRAMME AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU003

Earn 6 x CPD credits with PE’s new CPD Book launch

Professional Electrician & Installer has launched a brand new, online-only publication, which offers electrical industry professionals the opportunity to earn 6 x CPD credits, or the equivalent of six hours’ learning time.

Introduced at the beginning of this year, the regular PE ‘CPD Zone’ section (starts on page 37 in this issue) contains content and articles from leading industry authorities and contributors that are collectively deemed worthy of CPD recognition. Accredited by The CPD Group, The ‘CPD Zone’ has so far proved a big hit, with hundreds of readers downloading a bespoke, personalised certificate of proof in every issue

Recent changes to the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) have introduced a requirement for individuals to undertake CPD (although there are currently no set minimum hours of CPD

listed for individuals under the EAS yet), while some professional bodies may also have set requirements The need for CPD is expected to develop over the years and there will likely be additional requirements introduced in future versions of the EAS

To help electrical professionals with proof of CPD towards their annual record, PE has wrapped up each of the first six ‘CPD Zone’ sections from this year’s editions (January through to June) into one handy 120-page publication, providing readers with a ‘must-have’ technical resource A second edition will arrive later this year

The CPD Book: Volume One is free to access and available now on the PE website

Daniel to represent UK electrical industry at EuroSkills

Apprentice electrician Daniel Knox of GP Electrical & Security, Enniskillen and South West College, Northern Ireland, has been selected to represent the UK at the EuroSkills 2023 competition which takes place in Poland this month.

Past-SkillELECTRIC competitor Daniel, will be part of a 20-strong ‘Team UK’ with fellow competitors from different skills and specialisms, from engineering to creative.

EuroSkills, Europe’s largest vocational education and skills excellence event, will welcome 600 skilled young professionals under the age of 25 from 32 countries, to participate in competitions and demonstrations in 43 different skills and trades Around 100,000 visitors from across Poland and Europe are expected to attend the event between 5th and 9th September.

E x p l a i n i n g m o r e a b o u t t h e t a s k D a n i e l w i l l h a v e t o t a c k l e d u r i n g t h e c o m p e t i t i o n , G e o f f S h a w, Wo r l d S k i l l s U K Tr a i n i n g M a n a g e r s a i d : “ S o f a r w e ’ v e c o v e r e d a v a r i e t y o f a c t i v i t i e s i n c l u d i n g t e c h n i c a l a n d t i m e m a n a g e m e n t , w h i c h a r e b o t h c r u c i a l c o m p o n e n t s o f t h e c o m p e t i t i o n C u r r e n t l y o u r m a i n f o c u s i s l o o k i n g a t c o n t r o l c i r c u i t s a n d t h e i n t e r w o r k i n g s o f d i f f e r e n t b u i l d i n g a u t o m a t i o n d e v i c e s D a n i e l h a s s e t t l e d w e l l i n t o S q u a d U K a n d h a s e m b r a c e d t h e c h a l l e n g e s a n d o p p o r t u n i t y t h i s o f f e r s . ”

Speaking about his involvement in the competition, Daniel said: “My training with Geoff has been very enjoyable so far and the amount I’ve learnt has helped me improve in my career as an electrician Outside of the face-to-face and remote training sessions, I’ve been refreshing my memory by drawing and wiring control circuits at home and looking over paperwork from previous jobs completed in training weeks ”

“I'm delighted and proud that Daniel has been selected to represent the UK at EuroSkills Gdańsk 2023,” said Gary Phair, Managing Director of GP Electrical & Security “This is a wonderful achievement for Daniel, and we’re so pleased by the recognition of the effort he has put into both his studies and on-the-job training

“National and international training and competition events such as this are a great way to support classroom and practical training It's great to see the skills of regional students and apprentices showcased on an international level, and we wish Daniel and Team UK the very best of luck!”

NET will be reporting on Daniel's progress throughout his training programme and during the competition in September

SkillELECTRIC 2023 UK finalists announced

SkillELECTRIC has revealed the eight competitors that have progressed through to this year’s UK finals

The delegates who scored most highly across the recent national qualifying heats and have, therefore, been named as this year’s UK finalists are:

l Ben Gillin – Lloyd Morris Electrical / JTL Training

l Conor McDonnell – Nesbitt

Electrical / Southern Regional College

l Danny McBean – Grants of Dufftown / SECTT

l Demi Mae Whitehead – William Davis Homes / JTL Training

l Jason Robinson – Neil Whicker

Electrical Services / College of West Anglia

l Kevin Boone – Darke & Taylor /

Training in Electrical

l Thomas Magee –Belfast Met College / SM Electrical

l Thomas Turner – Parker Technical Services / JTL Training

All will now take part in the UK Grand Final being held at Oldham College across the week of 13th November

SkillELECTRIC, the annual search for the UK’s best student electrician, is part of the WorldSkills UK competition framework To be crowned SkillELECTRIC champion, competitors will have to excel in a complicated two-day practical installation task set to a strict timescale and against a rigorous marking criteria.

In a first for this year, the event will also include a solar PV-related task to reflect the fact that the core competence of a qualified electrician is the foundation from which to upskill and train in solar installation

GET

Prolectric wins Carbon Reduction Champion award

Prolectric, the off-grid, renewable lighting and power specialist, has won the highly coveted Carbon Reduction Champion award at the Construction News Awards.

Hosted by veteran broadcaster Claudia Winkleman, the awards were attended by over 1,200 clients, contractors and suppliers to celebrate outstanding work across the construction sector The ceremony was the culmination of work from more than 100 judges, including big-name directors from across the industry, who whittled down more than 400 entries.

Beating off strong competition from nine other leading brands, Prolectric impressed judges through clear demonstration of how its systems provide practical and commercially viable ways for businesses to stop using polluting fossil fuels to reduce carbon emissions and achieve carbon reduction commitments

Serving a wide range of industries from construction, housebuilding and rail to major infrastructure, Prolectric’s sustainable technology is easily accessible, providing a direct replacement for diesel systems Since launching its first solar lighting tower in 2017 Prolectric estimates that its clients have saved 26 million kg of CO2 (January 2017 - February 2023) and reduced diesel usage by more than 10 million litres As a result, the firm estimates it has saved customers more than £9 million

Rachel Preen, Managing Director at Prolectric, commented: “Our range of environmentally friendly, advanced performance products have been designed as direct like-for-like diesel replacements, making them a simple switch I’m hugely proud of our talented

team It’s wonderful for everyone to receive such fantastic recognition ”

GET MORE DETAILS ON THE PROLECTRIC RANGE OF SOLAR LIGHTING AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU006

Sevadis partners with Devitech to create ‘Charge n Care’ package

Sevadis has recently revealed an exciting collaboration with installation and aftercare provider Devitech

The partnership will provide a complete turnkey solution for EV charging by introducing a maintenance and aftercare service for Sevadis' full range of AC fast and DC rapid EV charge points. In addition, it will provide consumers with an extra layer of security and confidence when making an investment in a Sevadis chargepoint and ensure drivers are always charged, ready for their next electrified journey.

Alongside the MaxiCharger’s leading reliability rate, users will now benefit from further peace of mind with Devitech’s team of experts when it comes to maintenance and aftercare for the MaxiCharger range. From installation, commissioning to troubleshooting, the services will guarantee satisfaction and

charge point accessibility for all Sevadis consumers across the UK

Whether it’s a swift repair or full replacement, this partnership will ensure efficient EV charge point maintenance servicing for CPOs and EV drivers

Ensuring the maintenance of EV chargepoints is essential, not only for safety, performance, and preventative measures but also to continue the growth of EV adoption

a d i s , s a i d : “ D e v i t e c h p r o v i d e s a n u n r i v a l l e d c u s t o m e r e x p e r i e n c e, w h i c h m i r r o r s o u r c o r e v a l u e s i n e n s u r i n g t h a t c u s t o m e r s a r e l e f t f e e l i n g c o n f i d e n t i n t h e i r E V c h a r g e p o i n t i n v e s t m e n t We

l o o k f o r w a r d t o w o r k i n g w i t h D e v i t e c h f o r o u r E V c h a r g e p o i n t p r o j e c t s a n d a r e d e l i g h t e d t o b e a d d i n g t o o u r c o m p l e t e E V c h a r g i n g t u r n ke y s o l u t i o n s w i t h t h e i r c o m m i s s i o n i n g a n d m a i n t e n a n c e s e r v i c e s ”

CPD launch will improve understanding of PVC-U systems

Marshall-Tufflex has launched a new CPD course that details the recycling and sustainability properties of PVC-U cable management systems

Aimed at contractors, specifiers, and consultants, the one-hour seminar will explain how these systems can benefit projects and best practices for specification.

The launch of this CPD, which will ultimately form part of a series, highlights the company’s commitment to supporting continued professional development at specifier- and industry-level

The new CPD also forms part of the Hastings-based manufacturer’s campaign to emphasise the need to reduce the estimated 120 million tonnes of waste produced by the construction industry each year, and instead, re-use PVC-U

material for manufacturing rather than going to landfill

Delivered in person at a preferred site or customer premises, the one-hour Sustainable PVC-U Cable Management Systems CPD provides an overview of how recycled material is used within PVC-U cable management systems and how its use can aid sustainability and the circular economy

Martin Russell, Group Product Manager at Marshall-Tufflex, commented: “After completing the CPD seminar, delegates will understand more about the different types of PVC-U, as well as their properties, and how they can be recycled and used to manufacture new products The course will also provide guidance on the best practices for specifying PVC-U cable management systems, increasing

their understanding and confidence for future projects.”

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST IN THE CPD COURSE BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU007

NET launches new AM2 certificate checker

To help tackle the growing issue of fake industry credentials and paid-for qualifications, NET has launched a new online service that allows users to check the validity of an AM2 certificate.

Unfortunately it’s now common place when browsing social media and industry chat to see adverts offering forged ECS cards, qualifications and other certificates.

Any certificate issued by NET already incorporates multiple security measures to combat counterfeits, but to make it even easier for employers and others to check the validity of a certificate, the online search function now offers a further means of verification

Users are asked to enter the certificate’s issue number and the holder’s National Insurance number on the NET website The results then show if NET holds a certificate that matches those details, or if further investigation is needed

Stepping up to ladder safety

A year on from the launch of its work at height safety campaign, Stepping Up to Ladder Safety, Werner is celebrating the campaign’s success and reminding professionals that best practice while working at height is still as essential as ever.

Focusing on how to stay safe when working at height, the campaign launched in July 2022 and offers professionals a series of downloadable safety guides and practical advice

Having been viewed by thousands of professionals over the past year and generating hundreds of web visits, the campaign’s online guides cover best practice topics to help users feel more confident when using working at height equipment, such as how to use equipment safely, how to choose the right equipment for the job, and how to inspect ladders correctly

ACCESS THE ONLINE CERTIFICATE CHECKING SERVICE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU008

The most popular guide to be downloaded has been the Work at Height Guide, exploring the risks of working at height and how to mitigate these, as well as outlining do’s and don’ts for working on ladders safely

VIEW WERNER’S LADDER SAFETY GUIDES BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU009

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

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

At Selectric, we’re committed to innovation that anticipates the needs of our clients We understand that new products are vital for the growth and success of any business and believe that it is this proactive mindset that helps set us apart from other manufacturers in the electrical industry

With the strategic appointment of new key personnel and the development of cutting-edge product ranges, backed by compelling new literature and marketing endeavours, our company is firmly positioned for future growth

As we forge ahead, we maintain focus on continuous development, regularly listening to the electrical marketplace and collaborating with industry stakeholders to develop new products that align with their ever-changing needs

Recent feedback has driven us to invest significantly in our smart accessory range and other new and exciting products, coming throughout 2023 and 2024

Elevating standards with the 5M and 5M-PLUS ranges

The 5M and 5M-PLUS ranges have long been a staple in the success of Selectric’s wiring accessories ranges, and new finishes are always being explored in line with current market trends Among them, is an exclusive new handcrafted dark bronze finish for a classic heritage look Bringing added warmth and depth to the overall interior style you’re seeking to achieve, this luxurious metal adds a feeling of class and elegance to the

overall aesthetic of any room

Its remarkable durability and timeless quality withstand the test of time, ensuring an elegant and stylish appearance for decades after installation The dark bronze is a durable finish which is worth considering if you have a busy family environment at home as it will not dull over time From modern to industrial or traditional settings, this finish adds a touch of sophistication, making it a versatile choice for both residential and commercial spaces

Empowering accessibility and hygiene with Part M series

In response to the growing popularity of our Part M series, we will be expanding the range with additional USB outboard rocker options With a keen eye on inclusivity, the contrasting colours of the Selectric Part M plates and inserts help assist the visually impaired and allow easy location of the wiring accessories against the surrounding environment

Furthermore, the entire range boasts full antimicrobial certification, so you can rest assured with peace of mind that using these ranges will not assist in the progression of these kinds of bacteria

Unveiling state-of-the-art Selectric GRID360 Kinetic

Significant time and capital have been invested in the research and development of an innovative range of state-of-the-art wireless products, set to be released as Selectric GRID360 Kinetic

Powered by cutting-edge technology, the wireless Kinetic switches remove the

need for batteries or hardwired power cables without detriment to the dependability of traditional wired switches There is no need for any complicated cable runs within walls and they can be installed on any surface to provide a clean, convenient, and safe system that is simple to install and easy to use

The Selectric GRID360 Kinetic wall switches have been proven to be reliable in quality, stable in signal transmission, and well-designed in appearance which will fit

The team at Selectric tell us more about why the brand continues to grow with the times.

into our ever-popular GRID360 range of products Furthermore, the Selectric GRID360 Kinetic system uses a very small amount of energy and so reduces overall power consumption, which will result in economic savings and contribute towards an improved carbon footprint.

There is a wide range of kinetic receivers to choose from to solve real-life controlling requirements and we’ll be offering a range of non-dimmable, dimmable, and smart receivers, suitable for wide input voltage from AC85-240V 50/60Hz

The lowest and highest brightness level can be set by an App on the smart dimmer. This helps the performance and compatibility of the dimmer to suit more dimmable light fittings whilst avoiding flicker and slow response issues often found with smart dimmers A 30 - 150m transmission range (depending on context) ensures the switches will perform steadily under complex indoor or outdoor installations

Investment in tooling and certification has also led to the development of additional new products, including:

l USB modules

l Illuminated grid modules

l Medical sockets

l Isolator grid modules

l Spacers

l Hotel key cards

l Outboard rockers/sockets – clean earth & USB

l Lockable euro modules

l Emergency red accessories

l Decorative pendants

l Decorative ceiling switches

l DC solar isolators

l ATOM CCT ranges

l Integrated fire-rated LED CCT downlights with plug-and-play connectors

A commitment to ensuring we're all future ready

Selectric's steadfast commitment to innovation also extends beyond product offerings. With a refreshed brochure set to inspire in the coming year and an expanded digital presence through our website and on social network channels, there is serious investment being made in the future of the company

Our wholesalers and their valued clients remain the cornerstone of our success, and we pledge to continue providing them with an unparalleled experience as we future-proof their position in the market

GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES FROM SELECTRIC AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU010

Tom Brookes, Chairman of the FSA and MD of Zzeus Training, highlights the growing imperative for businesses to upskill their staff – and actively consider apprenticeships a vital investment for the future.

‘THE’ YEAR FOR TRAINING

The FSA membership is in the grip of a pincer movement caused by circumstances largely (but not entirely) out of its control Firstly, we’re facing a significant skills shortage, particularly in the fire engineering sector And, secondly, the outcomes of the Grenfell inquiry and other changes to Standards and legislation are putting the spotlight on skills and competency in our sector

The result is that the industry is experiencing high demand for engineers who can demonstrate the right level of skills and experience. That, in turn, is driving up remuneration and creating an environment where it's harder than ever to hang on to qualified staff who can be tempted away by significant increases in pay

Factors that were largely out of our sector’s control include the outcomes of the Grenfell Enquiry For instance, industry Working Group Two, set up following the Enquiry, requires that fire

operatives must be qualified to Level 3 (and Level 2 for security)

We’re also facing an update to the Dutyholders’ Regulations in 2023, where we expect that anyone who is the building 'dutyholder' where design or building work is undertaken must use 'competent' operatives to carry out the work

Going for Gold

The result of these changes, understandably, is that main contractors and building owners only want to work with fire alarm sub-contractors who can supply skilled staff with the necessary qualifications – and who can provide evidence, such as a Gold Card.

In addition to these changes, a current rewrite of BS 5839 (Fire detection and fire alarms for buildings) Part 1, which focuses on fire alarm installation and maintenance, will include a new section on 'competence'

This will add a requirement for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for operatives The industry Working Group

requested this change, so it is not surprising, but it’s not yet clear what CPD might look like for our sector For example, will it mean training every six months? Or yearly?

Another area of uncertainty is the update of Part B of the Building Regulations (Fire Safety). Again, we don't know precisely what will be included, but we should certainly expect more focus on skills and competence

While these changes were largely out of our control, our sector of the industry must take some responsibility The fact is, we have enough people to carry out fire safety work, but many of them don't have the newly required qualifications. Unlike our colleagues in the electrical sector, we’re still playing catch-up on formal qualifications

But we can’t afford to lag behind – this is the year for fire safety professionals to put training and competence at the top of their business agenda

The FSA is looking to make this more achievable and cost-effective for employers, without reducing the quality of

the assessment As a business owner, I know that ensuring all employed operatives have an ECS Gold Card has been expensive but it’s also an investment It’s also imperative for businesses to look at how they bring new people to the industry.

Invest in the future

With our skills and knowledge in demand, it's an excellent time to consider taking on apprentices, and the framework is already in place We have the excellent FESS (Fire

Emergency and Security Systems) Apprenticeship Standard and we

currently have around 1,500 apprentices on this scheme.

Anyone passing the assessment achieves Level 3 and is eligible for the Gold Card They can also apply for ‘Eng Tech’ status with the IET (Institute of Engineering and Technology) It’s an attractive proposition for a young person looking for a long-term career in our industry

The course takes around three years (depending on a candidate’s prior learning) and is offered by several colleges around the UK Moreover, government funding can provide £18,000 for employers taking on apprentices

We’ve already seen a number of electricians taking courses to add fire alarms to their range of skills It not only generates additional business for them

but also means that main contractors can use a single qualified and competent operative to install and commission the alarm system

The FSA membership should benefit from these growing requirements for higher standards of training in our sector The new requirements should also make it harder for less scrupulous operators to undercut reputable businesses, who are working to ensure safety and quality

All this means it is crucial for fire safety professionals to take a proactive approach when developing in-company skills and competence, so that we can benefit from the opportunities, and meet the challenges, that lie ahead

“IF YOU WANT TO TEACH, IT’S WITHIN YOUR REACH”

We put the questions to Alex Tranter, electrician and founder of Trades Education Recruitment, as she details her quest to increase the number of candidates that are moving from the coalface of the electrical industry and into teaching.

QHow

and why did you first get into teaching?

I had come back from fitting Photovoltaic cells in Tanzania and it was winter in Wales (where I was based) and just so cold that I could barely feel my fingers to second fix

At that point I also had a new apprentice and was frustrated that they weren't learning much at college, so I started to look at ways to help them on-site. I found an on-site assessor role in the West Midlands and the department head called me for a chat He explained that I could go on-site and teach as well as assess

This made a lot of sense to me as I wanted to bring the general quality in our industry up as well as help people to get their full qualifications Some of the guys I’d been in college with during my electrical apprenticeship were starting families and still hadn't completed their AM2 – it just seemed like they would never get there without the right people in place to help push them

long as you take time to help them understand things, when it all comes together at testing and fault finding in their final year it is a lovely thing to see

QWhat

is it that you enjoy about teaching and was it a big learning curve?

I enjoy having a class that actually learn and can put the principles together As

I’d originally thought that on-site assessing would be a gentle step into teaching, however there were still lots of different computer systems and policies that I had no idea about I found it to be a massive learning curve and, although the college team were supportive, they only had so much time available to help. This meant a lot of learning by trial and error on my part

Over time I became a qualified assessor and I’m now an Internal Quality

Assurance (IQA) for lots of different colleges where I support tutors and assessors One of my aims is to help make the process a little less scary for others who might be considering coming off the tools full time in the same way that I did

QTell us more about Trades Education Recruitment and what it is designed to do

We’re a recruitment business that focuses on the placement of electrical tutors and IQAs at college and training providers, supporting individuals to gain the skills required to be successful in securing a new career in teaching and helping them through that initial transition.

One of the reasons that I believe we’re in a more advantageous position than other companies is that I have a deeper understanding of what colleges need (based on the staff they already have) and how to interpret an individual’s electrical qualifications and experiences to help them get the best wage and package for their level of on-site qualifications – not just teaching or assessing.

That’s one myth that’s important to dispel – you DO NOT need to be a qualified teacher beforehand Colleges will fund all of that for you and give you paid time to do your assignments (as well as lots of support) What they can’t recreate or teach is 20 years’ experience on the tools – that’s invaluable!

One of the other things that my experience allows me to do is provide individuals with an understanding of what is expected of them in terms of handling and managing a class and general expected behaviours This can be very daunting when you’ve come off the tools so I tell individuals that they can call at any point and I will have an answer that will hopefully help them feel reassured

QWhydo you think it is that more electricians don't take the route into teaching?

I think some are nervous that they don't know enough – not necessarily about electrics but maybe the theory behind it or the way to teach If you’re a time served electrician with the right qualifications behind you, the class will sit up and listen

On the surface it may seem as if you’re earning less by teaching than being on

the tools, but it is a permanent contract with a lot of paid annual leave in most colleges

You’re also open to a teacher’s pension and all of the associated health packages and sick pay you would expect Additionally, there is free training available so that you can become a qualified teacher and assessor. I’ve known some people go as far as a full degree, or stay as the first rung of qualified teacher, but it won't hold your career back whichever route you chose.

QWhat benefits do you think the electrical industry will achieve from more 'time served' sparkies getting into teaching?

I undertook my apprenticeship with electricians who had so many years of experience that no amount reading or studying can replace that I found them all to be glad to pass on their knowledge and I would do my best to take everything in.

Now imagine if the tutors in colleges across the country also had this level of understanding and experience to give genuine real life examples to the text books In a text book I can say what you should do in any situation We all know that real life isn't like this and it is always good to have some examples of what you could do This stops it being purely academic and starts to give real depth of understanding.

I also think that as time served electricians we care about our industry more We want it to be well respected as this ensures that the next generation of electricians are adequately trained It’s simply not enough to have the skills or knowledge without the experience

QWhat would you recommend as a next step for a reader that might be interested in finding out more about teaching?

Colleges will need a clear enhanced DBS check, which they’ll complete for you, but if you have any unspent convictions this may be something to consider before applying You can apply to colleges directly or through an agency like ourselves, but please don’t be drawn into paying any fees for this as the college will generally pay the agency direct

Also look for REC membership, as I know several individuals who’ve been burned by agencies who aren’t registered putting them forward for lower wages or tying them into contracts without anyone to complain to

I’m always happy to have a chat with interested parties, so anyone looking for more advice please email me at:

info@tradeseducationrecruitment co uk

EMPOWERING ELECTRICIANS

The demand for electric vehicles isn’t slowing down any time soon, so how do we ensure we have the infrastructure to keep up? In this article the team at City & Guilds take a look at the growing importance of EV charging qualifications.

In recent years, we’ve witnessed a significant surge in the uptake of electric vehicles, revolutionising the way we think about transportation and energy consumption. The UK, with a 2035 zero-emission vehicle mandate in place, is no exception

As a result, the demand for electricians with specialised knowledge and skills in EV charging point (EVCP) design, installation, and maintenance is skyrocketing But why should electricians explore this market, and how can an EV charging qualification help?

EVCP demand presents an opportunity for electricians

While EVs are on the rise, insufficient EVCP infrastructure is hindering progress

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), there was one charge point installed for every 53 cars sold in 2022 Figures from the Department for Transport (Df T) in early 2023 revealed that meeting the government's target of 300,000 chargers by 2030 requires a 288% increase in monthly installations

There’s a lot of work to do and there is investment to match This March, the government committed almost £400 million to EVCP infrastructure, launching its £381 million Local EV Infrastructure (LEVI) fund and adding £15 million to the On-Street Residential Charging Scheme (ORCS). Installing these new chargers is a task that will require upskilled electricians and electrical installers

standards and address the complexities of charging installations

Luke Osborne, Energy & Emerging Technologies Solutions Advisor at the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA), is keen to highlight the importance of robust training, stating: “Maintaining the quality standard of upskilling training ensures that qualified electricians are up-to-date with the knowledge and ability to deliver quality charge point installations Incorrect installation risks not only creating an unsafe situation, but also failing to deliver the optimum low-carbon, energy and financial savings intended.”

Stand out from the crowd

Qualifications built according to industry standards help electricians stand out from the crowd as well as showing potential

VDE COMBINATION CUTTERS TO BE WON!

Draper Tools is giving five readers the chance to get their hands on an XP1000 VDE 4-in-1 Combination Cutter – worth £60.

These great-looking pliers will make quick work of cutting, bending and stripping wires and shearing screws The new 4-in-1 Combination Cutters are a super-convenient all-in-one side cutter, pattress screw shear, wire bending anvil and 1 5 and 2 5mm wire strippers. The 180mm pliers also shear 4mm conduit cover shears. Value for money, safety and efficiency is central to their design, but there has been no compromise on quality.

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l VDE tested to 10,000 V and suitable for use on AC circuits up to 1,000 V and DC circuits up to 1,500 V

l Fully compliant with EN60900 standards

The extensive range of XP1000 VDE tools include screwdrivers, interchangeable blade screwdrivers, slimline screwdrivers, pliers and tethered pliers All are available as singles and sets

The five lucky winners in this month’s prize draw will be able to choose a 4-in-1 Combination Cutter in 160mm and 180mm, including tethered options from the XP1000 VDE tool range.

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UNDERSTANDING POWER FACTOR

FAC FA ROWE P STANDING TA RUNDE

CHAUVIN ARNOUX - your guide to navigating the subject of Power Quality and Energy E iciency.

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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 FIVE STEPS

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

PREVIOUS USERS – ACCESS YOUR CPD CERTIFICATE IN FOUR STEPS

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All certificates are valid for one year from the issue date If you’re having any issues with downloading your certificate or using the system, please email us at:

pe@hamerville.co.uk

Well, what can I say? This is absolutely horrendous and in a special location as well This is exactly the reason the Client should always use a competent and registered electrician.

I can’t pass comment on why the fan doesn’t work; it may be damaged and need replacing, or it may have a circuit fault which has meant there is no longer a live feed to it Both of these things are easy fixes for a competent electrician

I can only guess that the circuit has developed a fault, and the person called to repair it either couldn’t carr y out fault finding or didn’t k now how to I’m going to take the route that they didn’t k now how to on this occasion.

I could say the cable is at risk from premature collapse, but it seems to have beaten me to it! There is some merit, however, for suggesting this could be an entanglement issue for fire safety ser vices entering the building in the event of a fire

By rigging a power feed from a light fitting, using an unsuppor ted cable is ver y dangerous I t won’t take much for the twin and ear th cable to become detached from a terminal securing a conductor, potentially initiating a shock risk scenario. There is a potential for an IP infringement, but we can’t determine that from this photo.

This is a ver y dangerous and foolhardy repair/modification that is only going one way from a coding perspective

NICK JAMES: A FRIEND OF MINE HAS A LANDLORD WHO TOLD HIS MATE TO COME ROUND AND FIX A FAULT Y FAN THIS IS THE RESULT!

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

We often consider it wrong when we see something we aren’t used to seeing. Sometimes it is, sometimes it isn’t, and sometimes it ’s a subjective take on a new practice This could well be one of those occasions

The BS 7671 take on this is that connections should be of sound mechanical strength and electrical conductance; Regulation 134 1 4 is the one to look at The use of nut and bolt fixings on SWA ear thing tabs, or ‘banjos’, has long been the go -to method. That said, the type of self-taper used in metal enclosures probably wasn’t around or too prevalent when SWA cables were first used.

This doesn’t make them unusable, but there are some questions you need to ask yourself :

1. Does it afford the same mechanical and conductance proper ties?

2 Does it present a damage risk to other cables?

3 Is it really any less effective?

4. What does the SWA gland manufacturer say?

The first one can be checked by measuring for continuity and possibly an IR test. After that, if we look at the possible damage to other circuits, the cable is distanced quite well from the self-tapper, and to be completely fair, there are just as many sharp edges on some nut and bolt screw threads, so I don’t see that as an issue in this case. Additionally, we can see that the enclosure manufacturer has used something similar to fix the top access panel in place.

Something to consider also is that the self-tapper will dig into the bare metal of the enclosure and may have more effective contact and continuity proper ties, as opposed to the nut and bolt, although both should have some of the enclosure paint removed to ensure good electrical contact.

After all of those things are looked at, we need to see what the SWA gland manufacturer says This can be tricky as there are many, and pinpointing the actual one could prove fruitless

For me, this is an inspector ’s engineering judgement call as to whether this is coded at all, and if it is, it may only be a C3 rising to something more if there is visible damage to a cable, which there doesn’t seem to be here. So, in this case, I wouldn’t code this at all, but I may note on the obser vations that it should be monitored at its next EICR to confirm that the contact sur face is adequate

The A2:2022 18th Edition Codebreakers publication is priced at £22.00 (members) and £24.00 (non-members). It is available in both hard

STEVE BRENNAN: OVER RECENT MONTHS I’M FINDING MORE AND MORE ‘BANJOS’ BEING EARTHED USING SELF-TAPPERS. I WAS WONDERING IF THIS IS ACCEPTABLE OR IS THERE A PROHIBITIVE REGULATION?

THE USE OF INSULATION PIERCING CONNECTORS ON METER TAILS

It has come to the attention of the NICEIC that some contractors installing EVCPs are using insulation piercing connectors (IPC) in order to provide a branch from the meter tails to supply an EVCP. This article looks into the use of such types of connectors for this purpose and strongly recommends that they’re not used.

When an electrical supply is laid on to domestic or similar premises, the host Distribution License Holder (DLH) will require the provision of a suitable meter cabinet at the service position to house the intake and metering equipment.

Although this meter cabinet is provided with the property, the distributor will specify that only equipment belonging to the distributor and meter operator (MOP) should be installed therein

The space within such cabinets is limited and therefore allocated for specific

usages by the distributor and energy supplier, and therefore should not be used to house other equipment relating to the consumers installation

IPCs are not designed for use on insulated and sheathed meter tails If encountered by Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) or MOPs when attending to carry out work, some will, with the customer’s permission, remove the IPC and remake the connection with a more suitable method In the event that the customer will not allow this replacement work to be carried out, the DNO or MOP may refuse to carry out their planned updating or improvement works.

Concerns relating to the use of insulation piercing connectors in meter cabinets

IPCs are a type of connector in which electrical contact with the conductor is made by metallic protrusions which pierce the insulation of an aerial bundled cable core. The relevant product standard for such connectors is BS EN 50483-4:2009 Test requirements for low voltage aerial bundled cable accessories - Part 4:

Connectors

The scope of BS EN 50483-4 states that the standard applies to connectors used for the electrical connection of aerial bundled cables (ABC) only.

A number of concerns have been raised in respect of the use of IPCs to provide a connection to types of cable other than ABC, and in particular meter tails

Effectiveness of connections

When an IPC of the type seen being used in meter cabinets is tightened down onto an XLPE insulated conductor of an ABC, the core behaves like a solid conductor However, when installed on a typical double insulated copper meter tail the individual circular shaped strands of the conductor spread under compression, reducing the effective contact area of the connection while increasing the termination resistance

Where installed in the meter cabinet neither the meter tails nor the IPCs are fixed, which may allow movement in the connection. This could result in heat build-up, which may lead to joint failure

Further, if the IPC is not correctly aligned with the conductor when installed, the IPC will not clamp down as intended, which may also contribute to a poor connection

These factors raise concerns as to whether the requirements of BS 7671 for effectiveness of joints and connections have been met (134 1 4, 134 1 5, 522 8 5 and Section 526)

The combined thickness of the insulation and sheath of a meter tail is noticeably thicker than the insulation on an ABC conductor As a result, it is unlikely that the ‘teeth’ of the connector will engage fully The IPCs are being employed outside of the scope of their product standard, but electrical contractors are not in a position to determine which IPCs might be suitable

for use to provide a connection that is no less safe than using other recognised means of connecting into meter tails, as required by BS 7671 (See regulations 120 3, 133 1 3 and 511 2)

The possibility of poor connections is a particular concern, given the high currents that may be drawn by an EV during certain periods of its charging cycle.

Protection against electric shock

BS 7671 states that a protective measure shall consist of:

l An appropriate combination of a provision for basic protection and an independent provision for fault protection, or

l An enhanced protective provision which provides both basic and fault protection (410 3 2)

Typically, the protective measure employed is automatic disconnection of supply (ADS), in which basic protection is provided by basic insulation, barriers or enclosures and fault protection is provided by protective earthing, protective equipotential bonding and automatic disconnection in the event of a fault (411 1)

However, this protective measure is not typically applied to the meter tails situated before the first fault protective device of the electrical installation (434 3)

More typically, the protective measure of double or reinforced insulation is used for the meter tails, and other equipment between the service fuse and the first protective device of the installation

Double or reinforced insulation is a protective measure in which:

l Basic protection is provided by basic insulation and fault protection is provided by supplementary insulation, or

l Basic and fault protection are both provided by reinforced insulation between live parts and accessible parts

Although the meter tails are insulated and

sheathed, so meeting the requirements of regulation 412 2 for basic and fault protection for double insulation (412 2 4 1), the IPC is not When IPCs are used in an aerial application the danger of inadvertent contact is minimal given the mounting height above ground effectively placing them out of reach

However, where IPCs are installed within a meter cabinet they are in a readily accessible enclosure to which it is not possible to prevent unauthorised access As a result, the conditions for protection by double insulation are not met.

Summary

Currently, there are no IPCs designed specifically for use on double insulated meter tails As it is not possible for a contractor to confirm that the use of IPCs in this manner is no less safe than using a recognised means of connecting to the meter tails, such use is a non-compliance with the requirements of BS 7671

Attitudes of Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) or Meter Operators (MOPs) on encountering IPCs used to connect to meter tails may vary

Some will advise the customer of their concerns regarding the use of this means of connection and, with the customer’s permission may remove the IPC and remake the connection using a means recognised as suitable for such use.

In the event that the customer refuses to allow this replacement work to be carried out, the DNO or MOP may issue an Electricity Deficiency Notice and decline to carry out their planned updating or improvement works

In either case, the customer may raise complaints in respect of the original use of IPCs on the meter tails, causing reputational damage for the contractor who installed them initially

As a result, NICEIC strongly recommends that electrical contractors do not use IPCs to provide a branch connection in meter tails.

Fig 1 Constructional differences between typical ABC and meter tail cables

The requirement for emergency lighting in non-domestic premises is laid out in legislation throughout the UK. Here Matt Tighe, Technical Service Manager with ESP, briefly considers the requirements of legislation and the British Standards and Codes of Practice that apply to the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency lighting systems.

EMERGENCY LIGHTING IN NON-DOMESTIC PREMISES

Legislation

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) in England and Wales, Fire (Scotland) Act 2005, Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006, Fire and Rescue Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 and the Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010 detail a series of legislative requirements for persons having responsibility for occupants of a building

The FSO uses the term ‘responsible person’ and ‘nominated person’ is used in Scotland and Northern Ireland

Under the FSO, the responsible person must take such general fire precautions as will ensure the safety of his employees and those persons who are not employees but who are using his premises (clause 8 FSO)

Amongst other things, clause 14 of the FSO requires that:

l Emergency routes and exits must be indicated by signs.

l Emergency routes and exits requiring illumination must be provided with emergency lighting of adequate intensity in the case of failure of their normal lighting

In addition to the requirements of the FSO and other legislation, Part B1 of the Building Regulations (England and Wales) requires that the building is designed to include, ‘ appropriate means of escape in case of fire ’ Similar requirements exist in Schedule 5, clause 2 10 of the Building (Scotland) Regulations

Legislation details the requirements for emergency escape lighting; however, it is the various British Standards and

codes of practice that provide the necessary guidance on how emergency escape lighting systems should be designed and installed

Guidance

The guidance available for those designing, installing and maintaining emergency lighting systems is varied However, the primary guidance is found in three related British Standards:

l BS 5266-1: 2016 Emergency lighting –

Part 1: Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises

l BS EN 50172: 2004/BS 5266-8: 2004

Emergency escape lighting systems

l BS EN 1838: 2013 Lighting applications

Emergency lighting

l Health Technical Memorandum 05-02: Firecode (HTM 05-02)

l Health Technical Memorandum 06-01

Electrical services: supply and distribution

l LG2: Lighting for healthcare premises (2019) – CIBSE

l LG12: Emergency lighting (2022) – CIBSE

BS 5266-1 – pre-design

BS 5266-1 is the principal code of practice for emergency lighting systems The scope of BS 5266-1 is threefold:

l To assist occupants to leave a building during an emergency – Escape route lighting

l To help protect occupants if they stay in a building during an emergency –Emergency safety lighting

l To help occupants to continue normal operations in the event of failure of the supply to normal lighting – Standby lighting

Figure 1 in BS 5266-1 highlights the types of emergency lighting systems and the associated activity(ies) It is important that the designer is aware of the specific nature of the emergency lighting system There are, for example, differences in lighting levels and times associated with each of the arrangements detailed in the table (pictured above, right)

Clause 4 of BS 5266-1 makes it clear about the need for consultation between the responsible person, the owner/developer (occupier), the architect, the lighting engineer, the installation contractor, the enforcing authorities, the

electricity supplier/distributor, and any other relevant persons at an early stage.

The purpose of the consultation stage is to define the way in which the system is intended to operate

Clause 4 of BS 5266-1 further recommends that plans of the premises are available early in the process to assist with the consultation stage Clause 5 1 of BS EN 50172 details the plans should include, escape routes, open areas, high risk task areas, safety equipment (e.g. fire safety equipment etc.), and details of normal lighting and its control systems.

Records of the emergency lighting system must be kept, including the location and type of system components, including luminaires, test devices, and any control power units (clause 4 3 BS 5266-1 and clause 6 1 BS EN 50172)

Conclusion

Legislation requires emergency lighting systems in non-domestic premises. The responsibility for such systems falls to the ‘responsible person’

The guidance issued under British

Standards, HTMs and CIBSE give designers, installers, commissioning engineers and maintenance personnel help in ensuring that a suitable and sufficient system can be selected, erected and maintained

ESP provides a design service for emergency lighting systems However, it is important that any designers are part of the early consultation process to align with the recommendations of BS 5266-1 and other associated standards

ESP can offer a team of dedicated design engineers who are trained and qualified in all relevant British Standards, including BS 5266 They can provide an in-depth solution to any challenges a building offers, through a combination of site visits and the study of site drawings All Computer Aided Design is carried out in-house, which enables amendments to designs as the job progresses

GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE EMERGENCY LIGHTING SYSTEM DESIGN SERVICE

AVAILABLE FROM ESP BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU016

IT’S A MATERIAL CHOICE

Before you install a cable management system you need to understand where you will install it and make sure that you select the right material to avoid corrosion. In this article Paul Nolan, Projects Director for the Hudson Group, takes a closer look at what factors you should consider.

We’ve all seen rusty or corroded cable management and containment systems due to someone selecting the wrong material But equally there is little point in choosing a more expensive corrosion resistant material if you’re installing the system in an office

And there are a lot of materials and treatments to choose from. So, when would you choose pregalvanised and what about powder coated, stainless steel or GRP? There are dozens of choices that you can make

Clearly the first step is to understand where you will be installing it Thankfully there is guidance and we can refer to EN ISO 12944-2 which classifies corrosion and gives examples of where you may find it (see the table in Fig 1).

The right material for the job

Looking at the table in Fig 1, let’s go through what materials you might use

Where there is a very low corrosivity, or C1, you will most likely be indoors in an office, school, hotel or perhaps a shop Here you would typically choose electro zinc plated or pregalvanised steel

Raising the stakes higher to a low to moderate, or C2 environment, you will be installing product in places such as industrial

premises, sports halls, warehouses or partially covered outdoor areas. Here we would suggest you install a pregalvanised

Fig 1

steel cable management system

For C3 and moderate corrosivity, think outdoors or in a light industrial area, then you need to go beyond a pregalvanised solution. For these applications you would use hot dip galvanised, CPC or powder coated steel or PVC systems

For seriously corrosive applications where there is a high humidity or significant pollution, such as in chemical plants, dockyards or swimming pools, you will need hot dip galvanised, powder coated steel, stainless steel, PVC or GRP systems This is a C4 environment from the table in Fig 1.

And when the going gets really tough, where there is almost constant condensation and/or high pollution such as you might see in chemical or water treatment plants, heavy industry and dockyards, then you need to install a material that will stand the test of time

Known as a C5I classification you should consider stainless steel, deep galvanised steel or GRP cable management systems for these jobs.

And finally, there are marine environments where high moisture salinity, or salt, will add to the corrosion Here you really do need to use 316L stainless or a GRP system.

Some additional pointers

Corrosion is only one factor to consider when selecting your cable management material We’ve already talked about balancing corrosion resistance against price, but there are some other things that you should think about

In projects where there are a lot of electronics, perhaps in a data centre or where there are lots of computers, you need to know about zinc whiskers. These are very thin zinc strands that form on the underside of galvanised products They grow over time and will eventually break off, causing problems for electronics

Also, not all galvanised products are the same Pregalvanised steel will typically have a coating of between 8 - 20 microns while hot dip galvanised will give a standard coating of between 45 - 65 microns, but this is an average and the product will not be coated equally

For greater protection manufacturers can provide deep galvanised solutions where different carbon steels attract more zinc when dipped to provide an even thicker coating of greater than 160 microns But if you hear the term “double dipping” then take no notice because someone is trying to fool you. Dipping steel a second time will make no difference to the thickness of the coating

Equally not all stainless steels are the same – 316L is more corrosion resistant than 304L The ‘L’ means that it is a low carbon version of the standard stainless so it is more easily weldable, but 316L, which is known as “marine grade”, has more Molybdenum which makes it more

corrosion resistant to chlorides and therefore salty environments

New materials and treatments

Remember also that material science does not stand still – new and better materials and treatments are constantly being developed A good example is a new finish called Magnelis This offers better corrosive resistance than galvanised options, it is self-healing for cut edge protection and is more cost-effective It’s certainly something you should consider in the future

And for really extreme environments many turn to GRP, or glass reinforced polymer, as a go-to material. Even here you need to be aware of what you’re installing since the mechanical properties of this material can vary

Delving deeper there are four main resin types of GRP cable management products which will suit different specific atmospheric environments, but that is a whole new subject

Getting the material right for your next cable management or containment installation is vital if you want to provide a long lasting and cost-effective solution for your customer

There is a huge range of materials available to choose from Remember that if you are in doubt, you can always phone the manufacturer to ask for advice, especially if they offer a wide range of different materials

This article is based on a CPD seminar run by the Hudson Group – ‘Selecting the Correct Environmental Material’

PARTING THE FOG

On 9th May 2023, IET and BSI announced the release of a Corrigendum to BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 The Corrigendum was published on 15th May 2023 and makes changes to six areas of BS 7671 that came into effect immediately

There is often a Corrigendum issued after BS 7671: Requirements for Electrical Installations, is published in a new edition or amendment.

What is a Corrigendum?

The word is derived from the Latin word corrigere, which means to correct

In this case, with regard to BS 7671, it refers to text or information that should be removed and/or alternative wording that should be added within the next release of the printed or electronic version of BS 7671 This will be the second Corrigendum since the publication of BS 7671:2018 in July 2018 The first Corrigendum was published in December 2018

The Corrigendum is available on the IET website and is free to download, but you’re not permitted to create further electronic copies without permission The reason for this is that the IET is the joint publisher of BS 7671 with BSI BSI is the

National Standards Body for the UK and is the copyright holder of standards emanating from IEC and CENELEC, where BS 7671 has its origins

What are the changes and additions?

The Corrigendum contains corrections to BS 7671:2018+A2:2022, and where appropriate, includes the new text in red Where text has been deleted, strikethroughs are included in red The Corrigendum changes have been brought together in Table 1, which lists each change and addition item and the page number in the current BS 7671 where it occurs A brief description of the content follows the regulation number

When do we have to use the Corrigendum?

It is intended for immediate implementation as of 15th May, and these changes will apply to any new installations designed after this date If you had an installation designed and in progress prior to 15th May, you can continue and certify to that design. However, if you wish to implement any changes, you must comply with BS 7671 and the Corrigendum in order to meet the initial certification requirements

Precautions where a particular risk of fire exists

Regulation 422 2 Protected escape routes (as shown in Fig 1), has the following addition to the wording:

Cables or other electrical equipment shall not be installed in a firefighting lobby, shaft or staircase of a protected escape route unless part of:

(i) An essential fire safety or related safety system

(ii) General needs lighting

(iii) Socket-outlets provided for cleaning or maintenance

NOTE 1: Guidance is provided in Appendix 13

NOTE 2: Generally, this means cables in a firefighting lobby, shaft or staircase of a protected escape route should be limited to lighting and associated accessories, emergency lighting and fire detection and alarm systems, although cables for other safety systems may be necessary

Hospitals may have special requirements as detailed in Section 710

This addition has been introduced to provide clarity where cables are installed, cross or otherwise impact a protected

Frank Bertie, Chief Technical Officer at NAPIT, introduces the May 2023 Corrigendum.

Fig 1: Restrictions to electrical equipment and cables installed inside firefighting lobbies, elevator shafts and stairwells has been introduced in the May 2023 Corrigendum

escape route It will require designers to leave clear areas where cables or equipment have to be excluded unless part of the three bullet points

Protection against transient overvoltages of atmospheric origin or due to switching

Regulation 443 4 1 Transient overvoltages due to the effects of indirect lightning strokes, has the following deletion to the text, not the bullet point, as to do so would impact indents (i) and (ii) which may be referenced elsewhere in BS 7671:

Protection against transient overvoltages shall be provided where the consequence caused by the overvoltage could result in:

(i) Serious injury to, or loss of, human life

(ii) Failure of a safety service, as defined in Part 2 Deleted by BS

7671:2018+A2:2022 Corrigendum (May 2023)

(iii) Significant financial or data loss

For all other cases, protection against transient overvoltages shall be provided unless the owner of the installation declares it is not required due to any loss or damage being tolerable and they accept the risk of damage to equipment and any consequential loss

The reason for the deletion was an unintended consequence, which may have prevented the upgrade of fire detection systems to LD2 specifications in accordance with surge protective device requirements

Although this wording has been removed, bullet (i) can be interpreted as indicating that a failure of a fire detection system to warn those present of a fire can lead to injury or loss of life

Notwithstanding bullet (i) a declaration will be required for all other installations should the owner accept the risk of damage The only area where this will create ambiguity is when the owner, such as a landlord, declares that they accept the risk the tenant would not have any means to be included in this declaration

The removal of examples in Table 443.2 and in Regulation 534.4.1.1 note are mostly

BS7671:2018+A2:2022CorrigendumMay2023

No.PageLocationIssue

186422.2Regulation 422.2 has been amended to clarify the scope of the provision.

2107443.4.1

Indent (ii) of Regulation 443.4.1 has been removed. The term safety service, formerly included in Regulation 443.4.1 (ii), encompassed a wide range of systems. The provision, therefore, had unintended consequences for improvements to fire safety systems within installations.

3108443.6.2Table 443.2 has been amended to remove examples of equipment.

4164534.4.1.1 Note to Regulation 534.4.1.1 has been amended to remove examples of equipment.

5242701.1Regulation 701.1 has been amended to remove the reference to birthing pools.

6279710.422.2.201 A new Regulation, 710.422.2.201, to be inserted after 710.421.1.7, has been included in order to modify requirements in Regulation group 422.2 for protected escape routes in healthcare facilities.

a housekeeping exercise in line with the removal of the wording in bullet (ii)

Locations containing a bath or a shower Regulation 701 1 scope has the following deletion:

The particular requirements of this section apply to the electrical installations in locations containing a fixed bath (bath tub, birthing pool) or shower and to the surrounding zones as described in these regulations This section does not apply to emergency facilities, such as emergency showers, used in industrial areas or laboratories

This has been carried out to alleviate an issue within medical environments where equipment is required to monitor mother and child throughout the birthing process This medical equipment requires socket-outlets, which were installed out of the 3m and subsequently, the 2 5m zone, and extension leads were used to supply power to it

Medical locations

The Corrigendum has introduced a new Regulation 710 422 2 201, which has the following wording:

Within a healthcare facility, cables or other electrical equipment may be installed in a protected escape route, where:

(i) The healthcare facility complies with Health Technical Memoranda (HTM) and healthcare fire safety guidance

(ii) The particulars of the electrical installation within the protected escape route are documented as part of a fire strategy

NOTE: Specific guidance on fire safety for healthcare premises can be found in relevant Health Technical Memoranda as published by the Department of Health/NHS England. There are equivalent guidance documents in other devolved administrations, e g Scotland (SHTM) and Wales (WHTM)

It is intended to provide assistance to healthcare facilities where they have particular difficulties with protected escape routes or moving patients between different departments in an emergency

Conclusion

When a Corrigendum is introduced, it is not a light decision, and is taken after much discussion, debate, and a thorough consideration of the effects such a change will have on the electrical industry

With any printed material, and especially with such a technical document of over 600 pages, there are occasions when minor corrections are required. It is important that any corrections to BS 7671 should be provided to the industry in order to maintain the safety requirements for electrical installations

Table 1: Individually listed Corrigendum changes and locations within BS 7671

IT’s ‘OPEN’ SEASON!

The Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) is an application protocol that enables communication between electric vehicle (EV) charge points and a smart back-office management system

Originally invented by Joury de Reuver and Franc Buve, the protocol has since been promoted globally by the Open Charge Alliance and become an industry-wide standard that allows seamless interoperability between the hardware, software, and electrified vehicles In addition to that, it means you can change the charging network without ever having to change the original infrastructure

Why is OCPP important to the EV industry?

Since the number of drivers making the switch has dramatically increased over the

last few years, it is crucial the charging infrastructure is always accessible and available Having an OCPP-compliant EV charge point will allow for future advancements and requirements in the industry to ensure an accessible charging experience.

As technology evolves and new features or capabilities emerge, the network will be able to complete over-the-air updates and create those changes This ensures scalability and futureproofing of the charging infrastructure, minimising the need for costly replacements or upgrades

What are the overall benefits of OCPP to EV drivers and CPOs?

There are several benefits that both EV drivers and charge point operators can take advantage of due to the standardisation of OCPP Drivers will gain access to a wider charging network and be able to use EV charge points from different manufacturers and service providers This means they will not be tied down to just one manufacturer or service provider and can even choose a preference when it comes to charging at home or in public Communication between the charge

point and vehicle will also ensure drivers benefit from a smooth and reliable charging experience

Charge point operators will also benefit from the freedom to choose from a range of hardware and software providers Again, this will be futureproofed due to the open protocol having the ability to update as/when new features or regulations are introduced which will maximise the initial investment

The standardised communication provided by OCPP simplifies the management and control of EV charge points, meaning CPOs can benefit from remotely monitoring every charging activity which will reduce maintenance costs and improve the overall operational efficiency.

What are the benefits of OCPP to installers?

Installers aren’t limited to a certain brand or supplier thanks to OCPPs compatibility This means they can offer customers a wider range of EV charging solutions, increasing profits and customer satisfaction Benefits for installers also include scalability, remote management capabilities, data access and future-proofing. These benefits contribute to more efficient installation processes and the ability to build and manage charging infrastructure networks effectively

The team at Sevadis provide more detail on the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP), its standardisation and what this means for EV charge point installations.

VOLTAGE IMBALANCE ON 3-PHASE SUPPLIES

Athree-phase power system is said to be balanced when the phase voltages have the same amplitude and are separated by a phase angle of 120˚

Accordingly, voltage imbalance describes a variation in a power system in which the voltage magnitudes, or the phase angle differences between them, or both, are not equal

Voltage imbalances are caused by big single-phase loads, such as induction furnaces, traction systems, and other large inductive machines, either drawing a current between one phase and neutral that does not appear on the other two phases, or between two phases such that current is only drawn on two out of the three. Either way this causes the higher loaded phases to experience a greater voltage drop, reducing the voltage on those phases for all the other equipment connected to the same supply

The uneven distribution of lower power, more general, single-phase loads across a 3-phase system can also sometimes be bad enough to cause a slight voltage

imbalance This often occurs over time as an installation, originally balanced during its construction, has additional circuits and equipment added to it

Getting the balance right

In rarer cases, voltage imbalance can be caused by the unequal degradation or failure of one or more PFC capacitor units in a bank, and temporary voltage imbalances can be produced by a fault on any one of the phases either within the facility or further back up the supply network

Having balanced phase voltages is arguably one of the most important requirements for an industrial installation, particularly if it contains 3-phase motors Unbalanced voltages at motor terminals

can cause a phase current imbalance of up to 10 times the percentage voltage imbalance for a fully loaded motor Accordingly, motors operating on imbalanced supplies need to be de-rated with significant reductions in available loading for relatively minor voltage imbalances Imbalances can also require the necessary de-rating of power cables due to increased I2R losses in the cable.

According to the IEC, voltage unbalance is defined as the ratio of negative sequence voltage to the positive sequence voltage Basically, the 3-phase voltages can be mathematically expressed as a sum of positive, negative and zero sequence components Positive sequence voltage creates flux in the direction that

Chauvin-Arnoux UK’s

Julian Grant

discusses the implications of voltage imbalance on the electrical supply of an installation, why it could be of critical importance, and how to avoid it.

the motor is intended to rotate, and negative sequence voltages rotate in the opposite direction. This creates flux in the opposite direction, however, since the positive sequence voltages are always much larger when the direction of motor rotation is not affected

The counter rotating negative sequence flux caused by negative sequence voltages creates additional heating in the motor windings that will eventually lead to insulation breakdown and premature motor failure. A continuous operation at 10°C above the normal recommended operating temperature can reduce rotating machine life by a factor of two

IEC 60034-1 imposes a 1% negative phase sequence voltage limit on the supply feeding machines However, EN 50160 states that imbalances of up to 3% can be expected Apart from the motors themselves, many solid-state motor controllers and inverters include components that are especially sensitive to voltage imbalances. Some will protect themselves and the motor in the event of voltage imbalance and refuse to operate For less sophisticated devices reduced life

of Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) front end diodes and bus capacitors are a common result of voltage imbalance. UPS, polyphase converters, and inverter supplies also perform with reduced efficiency in the face of voltage imbalances on the supply, creating unwanted ripple on their DC side and, in many cases, also creating increased harmonic currents on the supply

The case for energy logging

Fortunately, the measurement of voltage and load (current) balance, and therefore the identification of imbalance, is easily achieved using a power and energy logger (PEL) Connected at the incoming supply, the loading across the phases for the whole installation can be monitored over time to see how it might vary during the normal operating day or week

PELs can be quickly moved around the installation, non-intrusively connected, and utilised to measure individual equipment or circuit loads and voltages to achieve balance throughout the installation, and then reconnected to the incoming supply for ongoing monitoring As well as voltage

and load balance this will enable measurement and monitoring of other power quality parameters including power factor and harmonics.

There are two obvious precautions or actions to reduce voltage imbalance and its effects Firstly, use separate circuits for large single-phase loads and connect them as close to the point of the incoming supply as possible This will ensure that the load does not cause a voltage drop on any wiring utilised by other equipment that would then be subjected to that voltage drop. Secondly, ensure that all single-phase loads, large and small, are balanced evenly across all three phases These two simple steps could save a lot of headaches and expense

CPD ZONE

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

You ask:

WHEN I’M WORKING ON AN ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION, TESTING THE LIGHTING CIRCUITS CAN BE A REAL HASSLE. OFTEN, I HAVE TO DISMANTLE THE FITTING OR AT LEAST THE LAMP HOLDER TO GET TO THE TERMINALS. CAN YOU SUGGEST A BETTER SOLUTION?

Megger says:

Yes we can You need the new Megger LA-KIT lamp adaptor set, which can be used with almost any type of installation tester to carry out insulation, continuity and loop impedance tests The kit includes five adaptors, each matching one of the most common types of lamp holder: B22 and B14 bayonet fittings, E27 and E14 screw fittings and GU10 To connect to the lighting circuit all you do is take the lamp out and plug in the adaptor in its place The adaptors have two sockets that accept standard 4mm test plugs and the kit even comes with a standard 4mm to 4mm set of test leads The sockets for the E27 and E14 adaptors are colour-coded to show polarity, but this isn’t possible with the other adaptors as they can be reversed in the lamp holder The items in the kit are supplied in a durable carrying case, ensuring storage is a breeze The kit will save you a lot of time and trouble and, when you ’ re working at height (with only two hands) it will allow you to work safely

BROWSE THE MEGGER LA-KIT LAMP ADAPTOR SET PRODUCT DATA SHEET AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU021

THE BEST MEDICINE

Regular readers of PE will know that we’ve previously written and talked about healthy lighting and why it matters

Throughout the years, more studies have shown how light largely affects people’s health –specifically their circadian rhythm, quality of sleep, and ultimately their day-to-day lives

I n a v e r y i n f o r m a t i v e e p i s o d e o f t h e p o d c a s t O n Ro a d t o Re s i l i e n c e e n t i t l e d ‘ B r i g h t D a y s , D a r k N i g h t s’, D r. M a r i a n a F i g u e i r o – t h e D i r e c t o r o f t h e L i g h t a n d H e a l t h Re s e a r c h C e n t r e a t t h e I c a h n S c h o o l o f M e d i c i n e – t a l k s a b o u t h o w t h e a m o u n t a n d c o l o u r o f l i g h t w e g e t e x p o s e d t o t h r o u g h o u t t h e d a y c a n i m p a c t o u r o v e r a l l h e a l t h a n d q u a l i t y o f l i f e C u r r e n t l y, s h e s t u d i e s h o w t o u s e l i g h t t o i m p r o v e h u m a n h e a l t h , i n c l u d i n g f o r p a t i e n t s w i t h A l z h e i m e r ’s , c a n c e r, a n d Pa r k i n s o n ’s .

Lighting and general health

On the podcast, when discussing the correlation between lighting and the general health of individuals, Mariana states: “Entrainment is the synchronisation of your biological clock to the external watch So if you don't get that regular morning light, you lose that entrainment and that will lead to circadian disruption.

“Circadian disruption has been linked to diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer The first thing you'll often see is disruption in your sleep and it’s from there that you can start to see long-term consequences and more serious health effects ”

Speaking about her work with

Alzheimer’s patients, Mariana continued:

“In the case of Alzheimer's disease, sleep disruption can be both a cause and symptom of the disease itself One of the main issues with these patients is that they're as likely to be awake as they are to be asleep, so they don't have a consolidated eight hours of sleep at night

“Instead, they may be sleeping for three hours, awake for four hours, and sleeping again for two hours. That's obviously very hard on carers, who may be trying to lead a normal life but have to deal with a spouse or parent who is up at night

“One experiment we carried out in this area was in nursing homes Generally, a nursing home environment will consist of a constant dim light, which is the same 24 hours per day – you don’t turn the lights off at night and you don’t turn them

up during the day. This, however, can cause even greater sleep disruption for patients To counter this, we added more lights during the day and increased the overall light-dark pattern, so the set-up was more robust

“The results have been incredible! We've seen a significant improvement in patients’ sleep so they're staying asleep much longer, and this is helping to reduce agitation and depressive symptoms they may experience.

“Over a six-month research period we saw a continuous decline in sleep disruption, which in turn had a positive impact on depression and agitation The carers also observed that patients were calmer, they were eating better, and were easier to deal with – all because they were sleeping better ”

What impact does sleep deprivation and the quality of light really have on an individual’s health? The experts at V-TAC provide us with more details.

These comments from Dr Figueiro support the notion that light has been instrumental in the betterment of the quality of life, be it in hospitals, homes, schools or offices

T h i s i s o n e o f t h e r e a s o n s w h y t h e V- TAC b r a n d h a s a l s o ke p t u p w i t h t h e t e c h n o l o g i e s t h a t w i l l m a ke l i g h t i n g n o t j u s t a n e c e s s i t y b u t a f u l l y c u s t o m i s a b l e e x p e r i e n c e T h r o u g h o u r c o n t i n u o u s

c o m m i t m e n t t o t h e u t i l i s a t i o n o f l i g h t t o i m p r o v e q u a l i t y o f l i f e, w e’ v e i n v e s t e d o u r R& D e f f o r t s t o l a u n c h t h r e e m o r e

L E D l i g h t i n g c a t e g o r i e s w i t h t u n e a b l e w h i t e l i g h t :

1. LED Batten Fittings T h e n e w r a n g e o f c o l o u r t u n e a b l e T 8 s t y l e i n t e g r a t e d f i t t i n g s a r e m a d e o f P C + I r o n a n d c o m e i n f o u r v a r i a t i o n s –St a n d a r d , M S ( M i c r o w a v e S e n s o r ) , E M ( E m e r g e n c y ) , a n d M S + E M ( M i c r o w a v e S e n s o r + E m e r g e n c y ) – t o m e e t v a r i o u s f u n c t i o n a l i t i e s f o r e v e r y p r o j e c t A l l m o d e l s c o m e w i t h a b u i l t - i n t o g g l e s w i t c h b e t w e e n c o l o u r t e m p e r a t u r e s a n d w a t t a g e s .

2 LED Mini Panels

Ideal for general indoor lighting purposes, the new range of colour-changeable mini panels come with a non-dimmable driver Designed with clips for easy and quick installation they’re available in 6, 9, 12 and

18W variations with corresponding sizes for various lighting requirements

3. LED Big Panels

Besides the new colour tuning feature via a DIP switch, these new big panels also have an impressive lumen-per-watt rating for maximum efficiency Built with TP(a) rated thermoplastic, it means that they can be used without restrictions and are fully certified and compliant with the UK Building Regulations

BROWSE V-TAC’S COMPLETE RANGE OF TUNEABLE LIGHTING SOLUTIONS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU022

THE L AP OF LUXURY

Aurora Lighting’s products have recently been selected for two high profile projects in Northern Ireland. Here we find out more about how and why they were used.

CLAYTON HOTEL, BELFAST

The Clayton Hotel Belfast is a four-star hotel located within the Linen Quarter of Belfast city centre

Host to 170 rooms, ranging from deluxe rooms to executive rooms and suites, the hotel is ideal for visiting the sights of Belfast in luxury It also boasts luxurious amenities such as a health club, gym, dance studio, pool, and spa complete with sauna and steam room

Aurora conducted energy audits and agreed on a proposal with hotel management As the hotel was open during fit-out, Harcon took this into consideration and installed fixtures in sections to accommodate guests.

A range of Aurora products were utilised, including the LinearPac, the R6 Fixed 6W Fire Rated Downlight, the BackLite Panel, EDLM Fixed Wite Baffled IP65 Downlight, Uni-Fit Downlight, Lumi-Fit Downlight, OrbitalCWS, BatPac, Proxima Adjustable IP65 LED Floodlight, LEDLine LED Strip and a range of emergency lighting.

each area of the project – from the lighting quality to the aesthetic finish –with a proven guarantee of energy saving Aurora even went above and beyond

Four-star dining takes place at the Avenue22 restaurant and bar, with floor-to-ceiling windows which offer a view of the heart of Belfast. 13 state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces offer the ideal location for training, meetings and networking

Aurora Lighting’s products were selected by Harcon Electrical so as to create an elegant atmosphere throughout the hotel while reducing energy costs Aurora solutions were used throughout the hotel to improve the overall aesthetics and consistency of fittings and colour temperature, as well as replacing the mixture of fittings from years of maintenance with one sleek, seamless design

The aim of the upgraded lighting was also to raise light levels in certain areas such as the back of the house and plant rooms and to increase the amount of emergency lighting to ensure the building is kept up to requirements

The fittings achieved the desired effect of enhancing the lighting throughout the hotel, creating a uniform ambience and stylish aesthetic that promotes the elegant interiors The new lighting scheme also met the key goal of reducing energy costs for the hotel Significant energy savings of 426,220kw were achieved compared to the original consumption of the building

Harry Kennedy, Director at Harcon Electrical, said: “Aurora’s wide range of products helped us to meet the brief for

where the specified downlights would not fit in certain areas of the ceiling void, these were swapped for suitable alternatives and adaptor plates were provided for larger cut-out sizes The end result is elegant, luxurious, and will meet the needs of the client in terms of look

and sustainability for years to come ”

Ed Denny of Aurora Lighting

added:

“We were delighted that our products were selected for this luxury hotel project, meeting the brief and exceeding the client’s expectations Our range of products allowed various applications and requirements to be met, illuminating this elegant building for guests ”

BELLAGHY'S TAPHOUSE

The Taphouse Bar and Restaurant has been a welcome addition to the County Londonderry village of Bellaghy, Northern Ireland, having opened in 2018 With a family friendly atmosphere and a welcoming space to dine and enjoy a drink, the Taphouse also caters for larger celebrations and private functions

The venue recently expanded its premises, building a brand new function room to accommodate its events To ensure the appeal of the space and therefore its success, it was important to create a functional yet relaxed atmosphere with the right ambience. The lighting also needed to be customisable, so the needs of the space and the clientele could be catered for

After a meeting with the Taphouse’s owner, a range of solutions from Aurora Lighting were selected Aurora’s Bluetooth RGBCX LED strip has been installed, alongside a number of Bluetooth RGBCX

GU10s Thanks to the flexibility of these solutions, and ease of control through a simple Bluetooth connection, staff at the venue can easily control colour and brightness This is achieved through a remote control or the Aone BLE App

The LED strip and GU10 luminaires both offer control over colour temperature between 2700 - 5000K. This delivers a huge range of what the light can be used for, from daytime events that require more light, to evening gatherings where warm, inviting light is preferable The solutions are sold with a three-year warranty and a L70 of 25,000 hours, ensuring they can remain in place for many years while

providing peace of mind

Aurora Lighting’s solutions combine modern technology with simple installation, making them the ideal choice for projects that need high quality results in a timely and cost-effective manner

WHAT’S YOUR FTYPE?

our revolutionary new family of FType fire-rated downlights has recently been launched, consisting of the FType Essence, FType Mk2 and FType Ultra.

These cutting-edge downlights are designed and engineered in the UK to set a new standard of lighting performance and functionality, with the latest advancements in LED technology

We’re proud to be the first to market with what we believe will become new, trend-setting, innovative features, including the new Dim2Warm CCT, QuickView Cable Window, and the Easy Access ClipFit connector.

Key features across the range

At the core of every product in the FType family lies a set of standard features that immediately levels up this range

QuickView Cable Window

This feature enables easy inspection of wire connections, even after cables are secured in place. This provides the contractor with added safety and reassurance that the connection is secure

Trade-rated toolless SpeedFit Connector Say goodbye to complicated installations

Innovative loop-in/out piano key terminals allow effortless connection with both solid and stranded cables, minimising installation time

Super slim flat or regressed removable bezels

The new FType boasts a super slim bezel design, offering a refined and discreet finish, that seamlessly blends into ceilings and complements any interior décor.

Three modes, one range

The full FType family consists of the following options:

FType Essence

If the project budget is a priority, FType Essence is the perfect choice for fire-rated LED downlights These low-profile downlights strike the ideal balance between functionality, design, and performance. With LENLEN terminals and trade-rated SpeedFit housing design, installation becomes a breeze and upgrading to downlights becomes affordable

Available in 3000K or 4000K light outputs and a range of bezel colours, Essence downlights deliver maximum performance at a cost-effective price, making them ideal for applications that include bathrooms and shallow ceiling voids And with a three-year warranty, you can trust in their quality and durability

FType Mk2

The Mk2 range includes all the exceptional features of Essence and adds even more value to your lighting experience Mk2 incorporates only the very latest technology and designs,

Shyel Stark, Senior Product Manager at Luceco Lighting, introduces the new FType family of LED fire-rated downlights.

ensuring leading performance and truly innovative lighting features. Power selectable functionality between 4W and 6W is standard, which allows lighting spaces to be customised based on the end user’s needs Choose between the new-to-market Dim2Warm CCT and 4Colour CCT versions.

Dim2Warm CCT

Completely new to the global lighting market, Dim2Warm CCT versions are colour selectable via a switch between 3000K and 4000K However, when set to 3000K and installed on a dimmer switch, Dim2Warm mode is unlocked Dim2Warm technology allows the downlight to adjust to a warmer colour temperature output when dimmed, creating that cosy, ambient effect delivered by filament and halogen, but often lost with LED technology.

4CCT Colour Change

Alternatively, opt for the 4 colour CCT version, which offers a choice of 2700K, 3000K, 4000K, and 6000K with a flick of a switch, enabling rooms to be fully customised based on lighting preferences and preferred colour temperature These downlights are perfect for all applications, including bathrooms They come with a five-year warranty

FType Ultra

Designed for and with contractors in mind, the low-profile FType Ultra range represents the pinnacle of downlight technology Not only do they incorporate all the features and benefits of the Mk2 range, but they’re also available in both the Dim2Warm and 4Colour CCT options and include the new, ground-breaking Easy Access ClipFit connector

With its patent-pending design, the Easy Access ClipFit connector is designed to facilitate and revolutionise easy installation, by providing 360˚ access for wiring cables Say goodbye to bending and fiddling with cables around outer housings, with the removable VDE-approved terminal block. Ideal for stiff cables, you simply wire directly to the terminal connector and push-fit into the housing before clamping cables shut The connector also features the QuickView Cable Window for easy inspection and a VDE-certified terminal block, compatible with 18th Edition 500V insulation resistance testing Additionally, it comes with a seven-year warranty

WIN A SET OF FTYPE DOWNLIGHTS!

Recently launched, the range brings new and innovative features not seen in the LED downlight market, including the new Dim2Warm CCT, a QuickView Cable Window and an Easy Access ClipFit Connector

Uniquely, when set to 3000K and installed on a dimmer switch, Dim2Warm mode is unlocked on the Dim2Warm CCT models This allows the downlight to adjust to a warmer colour temperature when dimmed, offering a warmer and cosier feel

The Quick View Cable Window enables easy inspection of wire connections even after cables are secured in place This provides reassurance the connection is secure, adding convenience and saving time on installation.

The Easy Access Clip Fit Connector on the Ultra model includes a 500V insulation resistance compatible connector, with a removable VDE-certified terminal block This provides easy 360˚ access when wiring, eliminating the need to bend cables around bulky housings

The FType range consists of three models:

l Essence – budget-friendly, retrofit downlight with excellent functionality

l MK2 – high-performance, feature-rich, retrofit downlight .

l Ultra – the ultimate 1st fix, 2nd fix downlight for new projects.

HOW TO ENTER

WIN A 12 SET OF THE NEW FTYPE DOWNLIGHTS, BY FILLING

OUT THE CONTACT FORM AT: W WW. RDR .LINK /EAU02 5

Deadline for entries: 10/10/2023 Usual T&Cs apply

Luceco Lighting is offering one reader the chance to win 12 of the brand-new FType fire-rated downlights.

We learn more about how the use of ROBUS products has helped one of Ireland’s top universities to further enhance its green credentials.

Dublin City University (DCU), a campus located in the heart of Dublin, strives for a sustainable campus A registered participant of the national Green Campus programme, run by An Taisce and The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), DCU consistently demonstrates innovative schemes on campus to embed sustainable solutions that will result in financial savings while also reducing its carbon footprint

Auditorium

Having made the decision to retrofit the existing auditorium, DCU needed to replace the old PLs double light fittings as they were dark, unsustainable, and expensive. Instead, the university required a more sustainable, energy saving lighting solution

Working in conjunction with Emma Carter, ROBUS Area Sales Manager, DCU opted to use ROBUS LED MORPH downlights because their aesthetic matched the look and feel of the auditorium, giving it a professional and elegant interior Additionally, DCU needed the option to dim the light fittings as the auditorium is used for lectures with PowerPoint presentations, videos etc The auditorium is also fitted with a DALI command centre for the fittings which controls the lighting

Because the standard ROBUS LED MORPH downlight isn’t dimmable, the ROBUS Customised Conversions department worked on this project to enhance its functionality, producing 97 x Dali Dimmable MORPH downlights for the auditorium. The team also converted 10 x Dali Dimmable MORPHs to work as emergency fittings

Converted units connected to a DALI bus were immediately visible to the DALI command centre in the auditorium and it now has the option for eight different lighting scene settings

The new fit out has given the

GREEN MACHINE

auditorium a modern update and the light fittings are also more energy efficient and sustainable than those previously employed The feedback so far from lecturers and students has been positive, with improvements in the brightness and lighting quality very noticeable

Sports Arena

At the same time as the retrofit to the auditorium, DCU also decided to renovate its Sports Arena. The Sports Arena hosts a variety of important events, such as Karate tournaments, basketball games, and badminton tournaments, so very bright, energy efficient light fittings that would sufficiently light all areas were required

Once again, ROBUS was able to provide a solution with 36 x SONIC Highbays installed in the Sports Arena These products are strong and durable with a high impact rating that means they aren’t easily damaged if knocked by sports equipment

The Highbays can be switched by PIR element so they only turn on when the Sports Arena is in use, ensuring high energy saving costs due to the fact that light fittings aren’t left switched on unnecessarily

ROBUS continually invests in the creation and development of practical low energy

lighting solutions, making the products ideal for establishments that want to improve their carbon footprint and realise significant energy savings at the same time

WIN A CRATE OF GUINNESS AN SNICKERS

JACKET!

To celebrate the success of this recent project, ROBUS is very kindly offering one PE reader the chance to wi a crate of Guinne and a customise Snickers jacket

HOW TO ENTER

ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW BY FILLING OUT THE CONTACT FORM AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU082

Deadline for entries: 10/10/2023.

Usual T&Cs apply

BROWSE THE 2023 ROBUS LIGHTING CATALOGUE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU026

IN FULL FLOOD

Now in its fourth year of trading as an independent lighting company, Ovia continues to go from strength to strength One area where the company continues to make big gains is in exterior floodlighting, with an offering that comprises an extensive range of powerful and efficient flood, wall pack and street lighting.

Inceptor Ace

Inceptor Ace is a range of adjustable, LED asymmetric floodlights which provides high quality indoor and outdoor lighting solutions Asymmetric floodlights are superior in concentrating light where it is needed by using reflectors to direct light in front of the fixture where illuminance is required. With symmetric floodlights, on the other hand, the light is distributed evenly in all directions

Asymmetric floodlights can achieve up to a 50% better output utilisation into the intended illuminated area With the benefit of a lower light pollution, they’re best suited in areas where light distribution and its effect on neighbours is a consideration This

makes them ideal for installation in built-up areas, towns and cities, for use in sports grounds, warehouses and loading bays

All Ovia Inceptor Ace floodlights are IP65 rated and come with a five-year warranty They’re available in a black finish, in 50, 100, 150, 200 and 300W versions, with 4000K cool white LEDs They are supplied with a 2M pre-wired cable flex for quick and easy installation, and a fully adjustable aluminium mounting bracket, which allows full control of the projection angle

The Inceptor Ace floodlights are also available in photocell versions (100, 150, 200 and 300W) With all the features and benefits of the standard fitting previously described, the photocell option allows for use with remote PIRs or microwave sensors. The photocell versions turn the light on when the light level drops under 10-20 lux and turns the light off once the light level is over 30-60 lux

Gator LED Street Lighting

Ovia’s portfolio of floodlight solutions also includes the Gator range of LED Street Lighting with CTA Switch With an IK10

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

There are three size/wattage options to choose from – large (135W), medium (65-100W) and small (20-40W) – and they offer 50,000 hour lifetime and 85⁰ x 150⁰ beam angle They’re available in a grey finish and come with a five-year warranty

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

Inceptor Murus

Inceptor Murus is an LED Wall Pack with CTA Switch and a robust IK10 rated housing that makes it ideal in outdoor settings The IP66 rated fitting is designed to be fast and simple to install and is

Katie Plumstead, Group Marketing Manager, Scolmore Group, puts the spotlight on some of the Ovia commercial floodlight products that are proving a hit with installers.

available in 15W and 25W options and in a choice of standard, photocell and emergency versions The photocell version can assist with energy saving by allowing the light to turn on and off at set lux levels. Inceptor Murus will turn on when the lux level is below 10-30 lux.

Installation of the Murus is quick and easy, thanks to the Push Fit/Piano Key Terminal Block and the floodlight can be Besa box or trunking mounted All models include a CTA Switch, allowing the product to change colour temperature between Warm White 3000K, Cool White 4000K and Daylight 6000K It is available in anthracite grey or light grey and comes with a five-year warranty

DALI compatibility

Ovia also offers the Murus with a DALI driver. This means that the luminaire can be connected to any system which uses the DALI protocol, making it fully programmable The advantages of this are that the luminaires have the capability of automatic control from a central hub As DALI information is bi-directional this means that as well as sending commands, each individual luminaire on the DALI line can be monitored for energy

efficiency and status

With the addition of DALI compatible sensors or programming to the system the Murus, through use of Presence, Absence and daylight dimming, can maximise the efficiency of all luminaires Through programming, DALI also offers the option of grouping luminaires, setting scenes and timed overrides, making the Murus suitable for all external applications

WIN A £200 MULTISTORE VOUCHER!

Proving popular with installers working on projects within the education sector is the range of LED linear battens from Ovia

Inceptor A-Lite is a range of 4ft and 5ft College LED linear battens available in standard, microwave sensor and emergency versions and in a choice of wattages – 17, 25, 32, 50 and 60W. All models include a CTA (colour temperature adjustable) switch – a built-in, three position switch which allows for instant change of the colour temperature, from warm white (3000k), to cool white (4000k) to daylight (6000k)

Inceptor A-Lite is a high performance fitting that is safe, quick and easy to install It features a hinged diffuser with a quarter turn locking mechanism and push fit/piano key terminals, which all combine to allow for quick and easy access into the internals, speeding up the installation time. It comes with an IP20 and a TP(b) rating.

Inceptor B-Lite is a range of 4ft, 5ft and 6ft linear batten multi-current LED fittings, available in standard, microwave sensor, emergency sensor and microwave & emergency sensor versions They’re a direct replacement for conventional battens and boast many features

A security wire, pre-attached to the base of the product, allows the diffuser to be hung from the base and means the installer doesn’t have to remove the cover and place it aside during installation. The diffuser can be easily pulled apart from the steel base with the help of spring clips, allowing for quicker and easier installation

We’ve got a fantastic prize up for grabs this month, courtesy of Ovia.

Following a review of its product portfolio and the technologies that would benefit both contractors and end users, Brackenheath has undertaken a considerable revamp that sees multiple new and upgraded ranges being launched this month.

From power selectable and colour changing fire rated downlights to bulkheads, highbays and floodlights, the brand is most definitely back!

Introducing Spectra II bulkheads

With advanced features, exceptional performance, and unwavering commitment to sustainability, the Spectra II bulkheads provide versatility and reliability for both commercial and residential applications.

Considering the circular economy

In the wake of an increasing focus on sustainability and the circular economy, Brackenheath acknowledges the significance of creating luminaires that minimise waste and maximise resource efficiency The Spectra II bulkheads exemplify this commitment by providing a plug-and-play LED lighting solution that fosters a circular economy

The serviceability of the bulkheads allows for the replacement of individual components, such as the LED tray module or driver, rather than discarding the entire luminaire This not only reduces waste but also offers a cost-effective solution for maintenance and repairs

RETURN OF THE ‘BRACK’

sustainable products, technology and design, we find out more about what the revamped Brackenheath portfolio has to offer.

By promoting the re-use of functional components, Brackenheath empowers customers to minimise their environmental footprint and actively participate in a circular economy

Adaptable and flexible

The serviceability of the Spectra II bulkheads brings long-term benefits for both commercial and residential applications.

In commercial settings, where lighting requirements may evolve over time, the ability to upgrade or modify luminaires without replacing the entire fixture ensures adaptability and flexibility This feature holds significant value in dynamic environments such as offices, retail spaces, and hospitality venues

As standard, these LED bulkheads are equipped with CCT3 (Correlated Colour Temperature), ensuring consistent and precise colour rendering for optimal lighting performance Customers can choose from three standard colour temperatures – 3000K (100Lm/W), 4000K (120Lm/W), and 6000K (100Lm/W) – ensuring the perfect ambiance for any space

Four selectable power options

Flexibility is another hallmark of the bulkheads With four selectable wattages as standard – 12W (1200-1440Lm), 15W (1500-1800Lm), 18W (1800-2160Lm), and 22W (2200-2640Lm) – customers have the freedom to tailor the brightness level according to their specific requirements

For residential applications, serviceable luminaires provide homeowners with the

opportunity to upgrade their lighting systems as their needs and preferences change Whether it's adjusting the colour temperature, increasing brightness, or integrating smart lighting capabilities, the Spectra II Bulkheads can be easily customised to create the desired ambiance and functionality

By choosing these products, customers not only reap the benefits of exceptional performance and versatility but also actively contribute to a more sustainable future The circular economy principles embedded in the design of the luminaires align with global efforts to reduce waste, conserve resources, and mitigate environmental impact

Setting a new benchmark

With their advanced features, easy maintenance, and competitive pricing, the Spectra II bulkheads set a new benchmark for LED lighting in both commercial and residential applications

GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE BRACKENHEATH SPECTRA II BULKHEAD RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU029

LIGHTING THE WAY

2. ATOM DOWNLIGHT

The Atom downlight is a highly versatile lighting solution that offers a range of impressive features Its CCT selectable feature allows users to choose the desired colour temperature, providing flexibility to create the desired ambiance

With All LED’s advanced proprietary OptiDim dimming technology, it enables smooth and precise dimming control The IP65 rating ensures its durability and suitability for both indoor and outdoor applications

1. iCAN DOWNLIGHT RANGE

The iCan downlight range consists of the iCan65, award winning iCan75 and iCan75 Platinum, offering a versatile lighting solution that excels in both form and function

With its fire rating of 30, 60, and 90 minutes, I-joist and metal web joist rating, it ensures safety and peace of mind. The ultra-slim twist and lock bezel design not only adds a sleek touch to any space but also makes installation a breeze with minimal tools required

Equipped with push terminals, wiring becomes hassle-free and efficient Additionally, the downlight is acoustic rated, reducing noise transmission for a more tranquil environment, making it ideal for homes and apartments.

For those seeking insulation compliance, an insulation cover is available It's worth noting that the bezels and GU10 lamp can be purchased separately, offering customisation options

The iCan75 downlight seamlessly combines functionality and aesthetics for an exceptional lighting experience

Available in fixed and adjustable versions, it caters to different lighting requirements. The adjustable version offers a maximum tilt of 20° for targeted illumination With fire ratings of 30, 60, and 90 minutes for timber joists, Staircraft I-joists, and metal web joists, it ensures compliance with fire safety regulations It is also compliant with moisture, acoustic and air leakage standards

The Atom features an ultra-slim low-profile bezel, a DiamondTec lens, and insulation coverable for added convenience. The loop-in loop-out terminals simplify installation, making it a practical choice for various lighting projects

3. CATERHAM GU10 LAMPS

The Caterham GU10 is an exceptional lighting solution that offers a multitude of benefits

Equipped with Advanced OptiDim Technology, it provides precise and smooth dimming control, allowing users to create the desired ambiance. Despite its compact size, it delivers a high lumen output, ensuring bright and efficient illumination

With energy-saving capabilities of up to 92%, it significantly reduces energy consumption and lowers utility costs The Caterham GU10 is a direct replacement for standard GU10 lamps, making it easy to upgrade existing lighting fixtures

Its retrofit size ensures compatibility with a wide range of applications. Moreover, it offers labour-saving and low waste packaging, helping simplifying installation and maintenance

All LED demonstrates its commitment to sustainability with low waste eco-packaging, promoting environmental consciousness

Here we take a look at the top five most

innovative products from the All LED stable.

4. ALL-DIM DIMMING MODULE

The All-Dim Dimming Module is a versatile dimmer specifically designed for use with LEDs It offers both leading-edge and trailing-edge dimming modes, providing compatibility with a wide range of LED lighting fixtures.

With an adjustable minimum brightness setting, it allows users to fine-tune the desired lighting levels The module incorporates Advanced OptiDim Technology, ensuring smooth and flicker-free dimming performance Its slim, slightly off-centre spindle design adds convenience during installation and operation where, despite its compact size, it features an earth lug void, enabling easy and secure wiring connections.

The All-Dim is suitable for both retrofitting existing setups and new installations, offering flexibility and adaptability for various lighting projects

5. iQ INTELLIGENT LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM

The winner of a PE ‘Top Product award in 2022, the iQ Intelligent Lighting Control range offers a comprehensive lighting control system for all installs Centred around Alexa App Control, users can

easily manage their lighting through voice commands and App The smart functions of the system work seamlessly, whether the switch is on or off, ensuring consistent functionality regardless of switch position.

Users have the option to retain their existing light switch, allowing for a familiar and convenient set-up The range is designed as a retrofit solution, making it compatible with existing lighting installations

Advanced Dimming Technology provides smooth and precise dimming control. It also integrates with any third-party Alexa compatible devices, expanding its functionality with items such as smart doorbells and cameras With global technical support, effortless commissioning and programming, and the ability to program without accessing modules, the iQ Intelligent Lighting Control range offers a user-friendly and versatile solution.

Further new additions

Two recent additions to the iQ range include the new rotary Zigbee dimming module as well as a smart thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) with built-in temperature display

The Smart-T Rotary Zigbee Dimmer Module is an innovative device with several noteworthy features It utilises LiLo technology, enabling both live-in and live-out wiring, providing flexibility and compatibility with existing wiring set-ups It is designed as a retrofit solution, making it easy to upgrade existing lighting systems

The module is 2-way wiring compatible, allowing users to control the lights from multiple switches using a retractive switch. With user-friendly reset and programming options, it offers simplicity and convenience in operation

The Smart-V thermostatic radiator valve is a game-changer in heating control and will reduce energy bills and consumption by avoiding unnecessary heat being wasted in empty rooms

With its retrofit simple installation, it seamlessly replaces existing valves, making it easy to upgrade radiators. This innovative device not only reduces energy consumption and heating bills but also allows individual control of radiators via the Alexa App Its minimalist design features a hidden temperature display for a sleek aesthetic look

The Smart-V thermostatic radiator valve combines convenience, energy efficiency, and modern design to make an extremely useful product.

A JOINT EFFORT

When it comes to garden lighting installations, joint boxes play a crucial role in ensuring that the lighting system operates smoothly and remains easy to maintain However, their placement often becomes an overlooked aspect of the installation process. Ideally, joint boxes should always be kept accessible and should never be buried This accessibility is key for several reasons Firstly, accessibility facilitates easy maintenance and troubleshooting If a lighting issue arises, readily accessible joint boxes make diagnosing and rectifying the problem much more straightforward Buried joint boxes, on the other hand, require unnecessary effort and time to locate and unearth, hindering efficient maintenance and potentially resulting in avoidable damage to the garden

Secondly, keeping joint boxes accessible significantly reduces the risk of water

ingress, a common issue with buried boxes

Even if a joint box is rated for direct burial, moisture in the soil can eventually penetrate the box, leading to electrical failures

Where should they be placed?

Optimal placement for joint boxes often involves mounting them on walls or fences However, when these options aren't viable, mounting spikes, such as the WISKA spike designed for WISKA branded boxes, offer an excellent alternative These spikes secure the joint box above ground level, keeping it visible and easy to access while shielding it from standing water

Regardless of the mounting method, sealing joint boxes is crucial to prevent moisture ingress Applying gel inside boxes is essential when they’re mounted at ground level, as this offers robust protection against moisture. However, for wall-mounted boxes, vent glands or even a small hole in the bottom of the box can be sufficient, providing no irrigation

systems spray up into the box

Prioritising the accessibility of joint boxes is a simple step that can save you and your customers a great deal of future hassle and potential maintenance issues

BROWSE THE FULL RANGE OF LIGHTING SOLUTIONS AVAILABLE FROM HUDSON LIGHTING AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU031

Chris Hudson, Managing Director of Hudson Lighting, discusses the importance of keeping joint boxes accessible in garden lighting installations.

SMART MOVES

As the UK grapples with rising energy costs and a growing emphasis on sustainable lighting, the demand for smart lighting and control systems is skyrocketing The allure of environmentally friendly solutions has led businesses of all sizes to turn to their electrical contractors and installers for guidance

Companies are seeking energy-efficient lighting systems, and this is where brands like NVC Lighting are here to help Our lighting solutions not only minimise energy consumption but also come with a seven-year warranty and highly competitive pricing

Trending upwards

The rise of smart lighting systems has been noticeable, integrating cutting-edge sensors, connectivity, and control mechanisms While these systems offer a myriad of advantages, they also pose challenges for electricians

Creating robust and scalable solutions that facilitate effective lighting control,

automation, and seamless integration with other building management systems is no easy feat Additionally, ensuring data security and privacy is of utmost importance Fortunately, NVC Lighting can provide expert site visits to determine how energy efficiency can be improved while enhancing the overall effectiveness of lighting at the same time.

Scalable solutions

Simple yet impactful changes can be made, such as installing sensors in existing lighting set-ups These sensors automatically switch lights off when no one is present or dim them when ample daylight is available, leading to substantial reductions of 50-75% in lighting electricity costs. This approach is especially fitting for spaces like corridors, toilets, and warehouses, where lighting is often left on unnecessarily for extended periods

For more complex scenarios, NVC Lighting offers combined lighting controls and addressable self-test emergency lighting systems These scalable solutions can be adapted to projects of nearly any

size, complete with a user-friendly graphical interface and a head-end PC for convenient addressing and identification of fittings Such comprehensive systems will prove ideal for large projects and intricate estates

However, energy and cost savings aren't the only rewards. Effective lighting controls can significantly enhance the work environment, contributing to improved physical and mental well-being, as well as increased productivity

NVC Lighting prides itself on providing flexible lighting controls tailored to various needs The systems can adjust light levels to suit different activities, offering end-user controls so individuals and teams can personalise their lighting preferences.

Moreover, they offer circadian lighting, which subtly adjusts intensity and colour temperature throughout the day to emulate natural outdoor changes

Philip Brown, Director of Product & Marketing at NVC Lighting, looks at some of the reasons behind the recent surge in interest for energy-efficient ‘smart’ lighting systems.

LED IS LEDVANCE

LEDVANCE is to offer its professional range of LED lamps under its own name, making it easier for wholesalers, installers, electrical planners and professional users to make the transition to future-proof LED technology.

Whether the need is for LED lamps, LED luminaires, LED strips, light management systems or human centric lighting, industry professionals all over the world rely on LEDVANCE’s combination of experience, know-how and focus on the future

Under its slogan of “Advancing Light”, LEDVANCE offers LED replacement solutions Europe-wide for almost every application – from retrofits and conversions to new luminaire installations

The LEDVANCE brand will offer lighting products in the SUPERIOR, PERFORMANCE and VALUE classes, which are familiar from LEDVANCE luminaires. Clear naming makes it easy to find all the important product information, including the segmentation, at a glance

Although the names and EANs of the lamps are new and they’re clearly linked to the previous products, making them easy to find in the online product catalogue

The new clearly laid-out packaging shows that many of the professional LED lamps have become even more powerful to coincide with the change of brand

LEDVANCE also supports the sustainability targets of its partners, not only with future-proof efficiency but also, for example, with products made from recycled materials and with luminaires with replaceable components to help support the circular economy

The company’s holistic commitment to sustainability has been recognised with the Silver Medal award from EcoVadis, one of the world’s most prestigious sustainability rating agencies

The column where you get to put your lighting questions to the head of the Ovia lighting business, Mike Collins, and his team of technical experts.

QIS THERE A REQUIREMENT TO INSTALL ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FOR LED PANELS IN A GRID CEILING?

We believe that the load bear ing capacity would be in the requirement of the suspended ceiling as opposed to the luminaires themselves

This requirement is detailed in BS EN 13964 – Suspended Ceilings, Requirements and Test Methods – which was last revised in 2014

Safety restraints may be added to the luminaires on a r isk assessment basis For example, if the ceiling is of a great height, or if the panel is close to the tolerance of the weight restr ictions of the ceiling, then a suppor t wire may be considered for install to reduce the r isk

The most common requirement with panel lighting in suspended ceilings is the Ther moplastic rating (TP(a) and TP(b)). This relates to the flammability of the mater ial from which a lighting diffuser is made, and how quickly it can self-extinguish to avoid fire spread when it is par t of a ceiling lining

The Ovia Inceptor Slate Backlit is our premium range of TP(a) rated backlit LED panel lights with a low, <19 UGR diffuser They’re suitable for a range of installations and wor king environments and come with pre-wired push-fit 3-pole Flow connector, helping quick and easy installation on-site

Thanks to Chris Rice of EVR Electrical for this month’s question. A special edition Ovia travel mug is on its way!

PUT YOUR QUESTION TO THE ASK

OVIA TEAM AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU034

DESIGN OF THE TIMES

With the daylight hours of summer coming to an end, building owners and operators are set to turn their attention to outdoor lighting schemes Whether that’s repairing or upgrading existing systems or undertaking brand new installations, many choose autumn as the time to ensure everything is in place and operative ahead of the dark, winter months

Often an insurance or legal health and safety requirement, external lighting is

essential for enhancing visibility, safety and security after dark But with sky high energy bills to contend with more building owners are seeking ways to cut their lighting use and improve energy efficiency As a result, installers must focus on creating efficient lighting systems that are controllable, responsive and economical to run.

First things first

The first port of call must be replacing any existing lamps with LED light sources An essential element of any energy efficient lighting installation, LEDs use about 85% less electricity than incandescent bulbs and will help to significantly reduce bills by optimising energy use

Switching existing fittings to products with either photocell or motion sensor detection technology is also a must They ensure lighting is only present when the space is in use and can also be used to automate systems so luminaires turn on and off as daylight comes and goes

But for the ultimate in outdoor lighting efficiency, smart lighting technology offers it all Whether you opt for

replacement lamps which feature the technology or install a fully connected new system, an effective smart lighting installation can reduce lighting energy use by up to two thirds

One of the key reasons for this is that smart lighting is highly controllable; it allows users to create different scenes, groups and schedules whilst also offering automatic control over factors such as operation times, output levels and colour temperature, all of which impact energy use This detailed level of automation helps users to achieve optimum levels of energy use and ensure power is only consumed where and when it is needed

Smart lighting has become much more measurable in recent months, which is another real benefit for users. Utilising dashboard controls, consumption can be viewed in real time, allowing areas in which energy can be saved to be easily identified

If smart lighting is installed, remember to check that WiFi coverage is sufficient for it to operate fully; if it isn’t, adding a WiFi extender will increase its reach

Another factor installers should keep in

Outdoor lighting is an essential element of any lighting project but with environmental issues such as light pollution and energy use to consider, effective design requires thorough planning and attention.

Chris Anderson, Technical Manager at Ansell Lighting explores some of the issues.

mind when specifying a new smart lighting system is that the products chosen must be interoperable and work together seamlessly with other brands and systems

Previously this has been difficult to achieve as different lighting systems and devices used different communication protocols, but there are now a handful of options such as Zigbee and Bluetooth Mesh that are widely adopted across the industry and can communicate with each other

Reducing pollution

Aside from energy efficiency, light pollution is another factor impacting outdoor lighting projects Light pollution is a huge problem in today’s world and unfortunately, much of the lighting we use at night is contributing readily to climate change. Throughout the world, night time lighting is too bright and poorly directed which has led to natural starlight being washed out This has had an adverse effect on the global ecosystem, disrupting the natural patterns of wildlife and harming human health

To avoid this, there are now a number of

best practice design principles that should be followed to prevent light pollution from occurring. These include ensuring that the light fittings installed are useful, targeted, low level, easy to control and of the right colour Products that reduce glare and light pollution are also a must

To make the avoidance of light pollution easier, DarkSky (formerly the International Dark Sky Association) has launched its Fixture Seal of Approval accreditation

Awarded only to products that feature advanced lens technology and enhanced glare control design, it acknowledges those luminaires that will produce minimal levels of light pollution Where possible, these products should be specified in an outdoor lighting project to ensure compliance

BROWSE THE LATEST ANSELL LIGHTING CATALOGUE ONLINE

AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU036

A ‘STEP’ CHANGE IN LED POWER SUPPLY

With the Step Power power supply from Phoenix Contact, which was specifically developed for LED applications, modern lighting scenarios are supplied directly from the control cabinet.

The power supply for LED applications is approved in accordance with LED standards EN 61437-2-13 and EN 55015. Through regulation to a constant voltage, it enables the safe operation of LED lights in combination with current-regulated ballasts or, for example, LED strips with a resistance circuit

It offers an improved performance class for each horizontal pitch This means more space in the control cabinet combined with increased performance The power supply features a particularly flat housing With its special design, standardised to DIN 43880, the power supply unit is particularly suitable for use in distribution boards.

It offers flexible mounting and can either be snapped onto the DIN rail or screwed onto a level surface With the base latches integrated in the housing, this eliminates the need for additional mounting material when mounting on level surfaces

The tool-free push-in connection technology also simplifies handling Using the same installation space, the connection terminal block provides double the number of terminal points for easy potential distribution and loop through The 45˚ angle facilitates ergonomic wiring during installation. In addition, low no-load losses (0.21 W) and a high degree of efficiency ensure optimum energy efficiency in buildings

The power supply units convert less electrical energy into undesired heat energy This not only saves energy, but also extends the service life of all components in the control cabinet

WIN

WIN A NEW INSPECTION LAMP!

To celebrate the launch of its new product, the MAGflex Mini LED Inspection Lamp (RIL6100), Ring is giving one away to a lucky reader PE reader.

The RIL6100 from Ring is a popular lamp for electricians due to its small size and magnetic base, and is designed with the professional in mind

It projects 250 lumens, is robust to withstand tough working conditions and has multi-angle positioning, so that users can rotate the lamp to point it at the exact spot needed –all of which are necessities for electricians, especially when working in small or cramped conditions where light is vital to carry out the job

It also operates for six hours from a single charge with an integrated charge level indicator that shows the status of the battery during operation or charge mode, meaning electricians do not have to guess how charged it is!

As well as coming in the existing classic black, the RIL6100 is now available in blue and yellow, so electricians can easily and quickly find it Indeed, the lucky winner of this month’s prize draw will also be able to pick which new colour they would like

blue or yellow.

HOW TO ENTER

TO ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW TO WIN A RING MAGFLEX MINI LED INSPECTION LAMP, SIMPLY FILL OUT THE CONTACT FORM AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU038

Deadline for entries: 10/10/2023 Usual T&Cs apply

Fergus has announced the launch of two new, simpler, plans designed to help all trade businesses, from start-ups, to sole traders, all the way through to growing businesses with multiple subbies on the tools

The introduction of the new ‘Fergus Essentials’ and ‘Fergus Pro’ options for the job management software offers simple, cost effective and tailored features, ensuring that, no matter the size or stage of the business, Fergus is there to support them on their journey

Remember the Essentials

Fergus Essentials, available from just £19 per user per month, is the ideal solution for sole traders or teams with one to five members, providing a simplified and cost-effective option

This easy-to-use plan ensures that nothing falls through the cracks for electricians and other trades professionals, freeing up valuable time typically spent on administrative tasks such as invoicing and quoting, allowing them to focus on what they love – family, friends, or even just the work out on-site

“For those just starting out or running small businesses, Fergus Essentials is the perfect choice It offers the essential tools necessary for an individual to efficiently manage their company and make their

lives better,” says James Chillman, UK Country Manager at Fergus

“With Essentials, you can access a range of features, including job tracking, quoting and estimating, invoicing, calendar, timesheets, job cards and more – all accessible on desktop or mobile You don’t need to be digitally savvy to use it – just download the App to get started ”

Comprehensive support

To ensure that every user gets the most out of Fergus Essentials, the company provides comprehensive support. Helpful onboarding and how-to-use videos, live chat and email support are available to assist with any queries or concerns Fergus also invites users to participate in ‘Tools Down’ sessions, where they can interact directly with experts to get their questions answered and learn how to maximise the potential of the software

James adds: “Fergus grows with your business. We believe in providing quality services that cater to our customers at every stage As your business expands, Fergus Essentials allows for a seamless upgrade to the full Fergus Pro package of job management services, providing access to the complete suite of Fergus products ”

Go with the Pro

F o r t h o s e s e e k i n g a t o o l t o d r i v e g r o w t h

a n d b o o s t t h e i r b o t t o m l i n e, F e r g u s P r o i s t h e p e r f e c t c h o i c e T h i s p l a n p r o v i d e s u s e r s w i t h a c c e s s t o a c o m p r e h e n s i v e r a n g e o f f e a t u r e s , a l l o w i n g t h e m t o m a n a g e a n d s t r e a m l i n e e v e r y a s p e c t o f t h e i r t r a d e s b u s i n e s s

“Fergus Pro is designed to cater to the specific needs of larger companies, providing a full suite of powerful job management services,” says James “With features like advanced project management, team collaboration tools, real-time reporting and enhanced customisation options, Fergus Pro becomes an indispensable asset in driving business success ”

Features galore

The changes don’t stop there either, as the Fergus team looks to make life even easier for trade professionals More features have been added to Fergus, including the ability to issue gas certificates from your mobile, and integrated CIS tax compliance too.

No matter what challenges you may face out on-site, Fergus has got your admin covered

p , launch of the ‘Essentials’ and ‘Pro’ plans as part of the Fergus job management software offering.

A COMMERCIAL SUCCESS

The team at Hager UK talk us through the process involved with bringing new products and solutions to the market which specifically serve the needs of commercial installations.

With a UK market value of £25 5bn in 2022, the electrical industry is booming It’s not a sector known to stand still, striving to keep pace with increasing customer expectations and our ever-evolving world

Creating and adopting these new products and processes means that manufacturers must be forward-thinking to embrace the advancements within this area

At the forefront of this is a company that prides itself on its unwavering commitment to supporting electrical contractors and installers complete tasks simply, safely and swiftly At Hager UK we continually adapt and enhance our range of products to ensure our community of customers is provided with the best products and service at all times.

While Hager is rightly known as a leader in domestic electrical distribution solutions, powering countless homes with innovative products, the commercial market differs significantly, requiring higher power protection for building applications As a manufacturer, it’s essential that we fully understand the

users and purposes of our products in order to better aid creation and development

Building relationships

Over the past 30 years, Hager has dedicated significant time and resources to establishing and maintaining collaborative relationships with a community of over 20,000 electrical professionals, eager to provide the very best products and services

These relationships are invaluable, bringing user insight to inspire and influence product innovation and evolution As the needs of consumers have changed over the years, so have our products We look to produce items that our customers actually need, and they’re designed to make their jobs as streamlined as possible.

Through regular consultation with customers, we’ve discovered the factors that must be taken into account during any product evolution and/or development:

Safety

While keeping up with changing demand is essential for business progression and

stability, safety should always remain the top priority in any innovation Customers want to be able to fit and forget, knowing that the best quality product has been installed and that it meets all expectations Trusting that products are robust, built to last and compliant with the latest building regulations allows for total peace of mind and consumer confidence

Flexibility

Providing products that can be versatile and adaptable for a variety of purposes not only helps to keep waste to a minimum, but ensures that each item can be tailored to be perfectly compatible with any existing system and/or other individual components

Simple

As a manufacturer, everything we do has the user in mind Designing products that are simple – to install, manage, update and replace (if necessary) – should always be a key consideration

Energy saving

Across almost all industries there is a growing focus and awareness surrounding

sustainability and energy consumption, with many customers opting for offers and services that align with their own values

Dedicated to preserving the world for future generations, we’ve pledged a Blue Planet Commitment, aiming to halve our carbon footprint company-wide by 2030

Working within the commercial sector means customers are often faced with tight budgets and deadlines, as well as governmental or business objectives to enhance sustainability efforts Being able to identify where energy is being consumed

and wasted

can help identify the potential for both cost savings and a more environmentally-friendly solution.

Choice

No two jobs are ever the same – and why would they be? Customers should have a choice when it comes to selecting a product, allowing for the purchase of the best item in relation to budgets, purpose and preferences Not only does it empower the customer, it can also help to appease the end-user too

Communication

Metering helps building occupiers understand how energy is being used and allows them to spot patterns and trends

Communication between manufacturer and customer works in a similar way – whether via social media, dedicated Apps, or through email contact This is something we’ve worked tirelessly to implement over the past 30 years Feedback can help to iron out any issues and influence product development

The result

As a result of this collaborative process, earlier this year we launched Quadro Evo – a bespoke full-power solution for the market Taking into account all of the core factors highlighted in this article, it’s committed to excellence, safety, and efficiency, and is set to shape the future of electrical installations in commercial buildings

BROWSE THE LATEST HAGER COMMERCIAL DISTRIBUTION PRODUCT CATALOGUE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU040

GUARDIAN’S AN ANGEL

Following the launch of a brand new product, designed to help overcome some of the safety risks associated with neutral current diversion, we put the questions to Richard Winter, Director at matt:e, to discover why Guardian really could be an industry angel.

Q. How common are faults on the electricity supply network, and what issues/dangers can arise from such a fault?

In an article published by Engineering & Technology earlier this year (https://eandt theiet org/content/articles/ 2023/02/industry-must-acknowledgedangerous-network-fault-warn-experts/) it was stated that electrical experts, including a former employee of one the UK’s major power networks, have said that there is a real risk of deadly gas explosions and fires in the UK due to an increasingly common fault on the electricity network.

The experts in question argue that the Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) must acknowledge the risks of neutral current diversion (NCD) so that a programme of testing can be implemented and lifesaving upgrades be made to the grid

An NCD can occur on the network when the combined protective earthing and neutral (PEN) conductor fails. The current is then diverted by making a circuit via exposed metalwork on buildings including gas, water and oil pipes This can lead to a significant build-up of heat, leading to fires and gas explosions

Last year, Engineering & Technology revealed that the reports of broken PEN conductors had increased by more than eight times over the last 18 years in the UK –from 57 in 2003 to 474 reports in 2021.

Q Tell us more about your own solution –Guardian – and what it is designed to do We all rely on electricity to power our homes and businesses but what happens if there is a fault on the electricity network that supplies a property?

Bad connections or breakages in the

supply Neutral conductor in a TN or TT system can cause excessive voltages in the electricity supply which can lead to the premature aging or even destruction of equipment, increasing electrical consumption and creating a potential fire risk

A fault on the electricity network could lead to one or more of the following:

l Overheating of electrical installations and appliances

l Premature equipment failure

l Serious damage or destruction of appliances

l Potential fire hazard

l Danger of electrocution

Furthermore, a broken Neutral on a TN system can lead to an electric shock if any

metallic parts, including gas pipework and any bonded appliances, are touched by a person in simultaneous contact with general mass of Earth

Unfortunately, MCBs and RCDs currently used do not detect this fault and will not offer any protection.

Incorporating the patented O-PEN technology, the Guardian is simply installed next to existing distribution boards, constantly monitoring the electricity supply to, and the electrical infrastructure of, a building

It will help to detect faults and safely isolate or warn the building owner of any

GUARDIAN FEATURES & BENEFITS

l Simple installation and commissioning

l Visual display of alerts and status

l Ethernet connection to cloud based platform

l Modbus connection for 3rd party building management systems

l Standard one-year parts warranty

potential fault before catastrophic failure occurs, including:

l Loss of Neutral

l Broken PEN conductor, TN-C-S supply

l Voltage on protective earth/ground conductors

l High and low line voltages

l High and low frequency

Q. How does an electrical installer fit the product?

The Guardian is designed to be installed next to the existing distribution boards, so is very simply connected to the 3-phase supply

Q. Does the product only notify the end user that there may be an issue with the electricity supply, or is it able to inform multiple parties?

The device will show visual alerts on the screen and can connect to the cloud-based platform (subscription required), allowing you to remotely view the device From here, alerts can be sent to the user or maintenance company via email and SMS. You can, therefore, have multiple users per device.

Q Are there certain types of installation where this product will prove particularly useful?

The product is useful for any installation where the customer and/or installer wants to add additional protection from faults

that can occur (and are on the rise) on the Network For those working in the EV industry and involved in charge point installations, the product will also resonate significantly

Depending on the required function, the earthing/grounding terminal can be connected as usual from the supply circuit being protected or alternatively can be used as a separate sensing circuit to measure voltage on any conductive part, metallic fencing etc , which under normal circumstances would not be live

Q. Is the product a ‘one size fits all’ solution?

Yes. As it is parallel connected, it can be installed on a 400V 3-phase installation of any size

BROWSE THE GUARDIAN PRODUCT SPECIFICATION SHEET BY VISITING:

WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU041

REMOTE CONTROL

Across the home improvement sector, disputes with customers are unfortunately always a possibility Customers may be disappointed with the quality of a job, or there may be an issue after work is completed that requires attention.

Historically, issues like this would have required an electrical business to send out an employee or an independent inspector to scope out the problems in person, but this is now an outdated practice With remote video guidance now at our fingertips, this can be utilised to an electrical business’ advantage in a number of ways.

In-person vs remote video technology W h e n d e a l i n g w i t h d i s p u t e s , d i s p a t c h i n g e m p l o y e e s o r i n s p e c t o r s t o v a r i o u s l o c a t i o n s h a s a s i g n i f i c a n t i m p a c t o n a b u s i n e s s f i n a n c i a l l y E v e r y i n s p e c t i o n t a ke s a h u g e c h u n k o u t o f t h e w o r k i n g d a y t h a t c o u l d b e s p e n t o n o t h e r j o b s , s u b s e q u e n t l y l o s i n g a

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

Through remote video guidance, electrical professionals can be ‘in the room’ without having to leave their business premises or homes Live video and augmented reality guidance can provide clear visuals of the electrical works, and it can also be used to document any issues for future reference

Some software may also optimise AI to help identify problems and recommend solutions to fix the problem This technology can usually be used via any device, including smartphones, making it incredibly easy to access too

Being able to provide remote video guidance to customers may contribute to enhanced customer service, as prospective clients may see this offering as a business’ commitment to providing quality workmanship Electricians can nip issues in the bud before they escalate by

quickly viewing issues remotely rather than leaving customers waiting for resolution

Optimising remote video technology throughout a project lifecycle

Remote video technology doesn’t need to be used purely in the case of a dispute. It can be used throughout a project, from the very initial assessments through to completion and aftercare

Documenting work throughout the lifecycle can improve efficiencies and minimise costs Remote video technology can be used to clearly document a site before electrical work begins, to assist with providing quotes or drawing up plans Some video software can scan a whole room to capture a property or site’s interior, which can then be converted into a 3D model which can be used to assist with the job going forward

This type of technology can also capture the works throughout the installation period, to provide reference points that can be analysed later on And if disputes do arise, it can be used to

Ciarán Harkin, Managing Director at Dispute Assist, looks at the reasons why the use of remote video guidance can give your electrical business a competitive edge.

diagnose the problem and assist with finding a resolution For more complicated disputes, this technology can also be used to ensure damage limitation before an expert can assess the issue

In the unfortunate event that disputes do arise, many electrical businesses may turn to alternative dispute resolution (ADR) for resolution over the traditional lengthy, and expensive, court route ADR methods include mediation and conciliation at the softer end, which aims for parties to reach a resolution on their own through facilitated conversations

But there is also arbitration and expert determination if further assistance is required to reach a resolution As both of these methods are legally binding processes, evidence obtained through remote video guidance could prove to be enormously helpful to settle a dispute. It can also help to protect businesses against inaccurate claims a customer may make further down the line

Adapting to business challenges

The impact of Covid-19, the fuel crisis, skills shortages and backlogs of work

has made the last few years very difficult for organisations operating within the home improvement sector Combined with the cost of living crisis and other economic factors that continue to put the strain on businesses, electricians need to ensure they’re maximising opportunities to make money at every turn

Back-and-forth visits to sites only impede a business financially, so now it is more important than ever to adapt business operations for greater profitability Optimising remote video guidance can streamline a business’ processes, and ensure they stay ahead of the competition by offering the latest technology services to their customer base

“THE IDEAL SOLUTION FOR REMOTE MONITORING”

As a company, The Technical Department has been at the forefront of sustainable power delivery in the live event industry for many years

We regularly provide power and energy electrical surveys to the live event industry, enabling our clients to make decisions on the type, quantity and size of generator they require for their event, saving them fuel and making their event as sustainable as possible

Over the years, we’ve used Chauvin Arnoux power analysers and energy monitors to help us achieve this with the products proving to be reliable and accurate at recording data in some very remote, unforgiving locations globally, enabling us to provide very detailed

power and energy survey reports.

O n e p r o d u c t t h a t I h a d n’ t t r i e d b e f o r e, b u t h a d h e a r d g r e a t t h i n g s a b o u t , w a s t h e P E L 1 0 4 Po w e r E n e r g y Lo g g e r, s o I w a s r e a l l y ke e n t o g e t t o g r i p s w i t h t h e f u n c t i o n a l i t y o f t h e i n s t r u m e n t u p o n b e i n g g i v e n t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o r e v i e w i t f o r t h i s m a g a z i n e

C o m p a c t a n d c o m f o r t a b l e

Firstly, the PEL 104 is a compact size for a three-phase instrument, which is great when deploying in locations with limited space It also has a minimal screen layout and control buttons along with a rubberised case enclosing the unit and allowing a comfortable grip

The instrument comes included with a generously sized quality canvas bag that

easily stores all the various crocodile clips and CT coils required for the monitoring set-up

A very innovative design feature is the magnets on the back of the unit which allow you to stick it to the distribution board you’re monitoring or any metallic surface Also, the voltage probes come on a magnetic reel, which I’ve not seen before, allowing you to deploy just enough leads for your voltage set-up.

As we all know, it pays to keep things neat when deploying this type of equipment If you’re leaving the unit at a location remotely for a while, it is essential that your set-up is tidy so no disruption to the leads can occur after you’ve left, negatively affecting the monitoring

The CT coils are the Rogowski type, so

Jeff Jones from The Technical Department is back in the hot-seat this month as he reviews the Chauvin Arnoux PEL 104 Power Energy Logger.

they’re flexible and easy to retrofit to most installations without having to disturb the wiring too much in the distribution board Some electrical installations can be very tricky to monitor due to the fixed rigid layout of the conductors or busbar, so the flexible coils make attaching the CTs nice and easy

Also included is a plug-in power adapter which self-powers the PEL 104 off your voltage monitoring connections, i t l l i

KVAR and KVA One thing I found particularly interesting was viewing the phasor diagram in real time and seeing how it was immediately affected by the type of connected load, linear or nonlinear.

Connectivity options

I was particularly interested to see how straightforward the rest of the connectivity options were All the

The range of options this feature allows you to explore is particularly useful if you’re trying to pinpoint a specific issue with an electrical system or perhaps you just want it to email you when the current demand has reached a particular limit.

I first deployed the PEL 104 at an event where I was looking to remotely survey the electrical demand of a temporary kitchen These kitchen set-ups have a very high-power demand at specific times of the d I fi t l lated the total power allowing for diversity from the electrical specifications of the catering equipment. Based on this information I then set a current threshold on the PEL 104 using ‘alarm conditions’ to notify me via mail when the current demand my preset limit

rison

I found the PEL 104 extremely easy to set up and get to grips with Initially I only had my mobile to hand so decided to connect wirelessly via Bluetooth After downloading the PEL mobile App I was quickly able to connect via Bluetooth and set up the unit for my first scheduled recording

I should say that Chauvin Arnoux has developed an App that really compliments the instrument and allows you to effectively set everything up for your first recording session without requiring a laptop This is great, as it allows you to set everything up in the field with your mobile, really cutting down on the amount of kit you need to carry to the job site

The layout of the App is excellent and allowed me to quickly adjust all the required settings on the PEL 104 and begin my scheduled recording Simply swiping right on the App gives you several screens of real time data such as a phasor diagram, current voltage frequency as well as KW,

is an ethernet port for the hardwired option, which is great where interference can be a problem, and a sim card slot for mobile data There is also an option to connect to Wi-Fi.

The PEL transfer software on my laptop was easy to navigate with a familiar layout that gives you all the options provided by the mobile App, plus more There were a couple of configuration settings that certainly require a special mention, with one of the options – ‘alarm conditions’ –proving very worthwhile

This option allows the instrument to contact you via email if the PEL 104 records anything out of the ordinary with the pre-programmed parameters you’ve set Essentially you can set the PEL 104 up to email you when any preset electrical thresholds, such as current, voltage and frequency, are triggered I used this option when remotely monitoring a generator and had it set up to notify me when the voltage dipped below a certain value

orthy feature is the L452 is requires an additional unit Arnoux which allows you to monitoring items into your s temperature, humidity and n see this being very useful and remotely monitoring a el supply at the same time as the electrical statistics, giving a useful comparison of the two

The PEL 104 can also record DC current with a different set of CT coils that are an optional extra. This is a feature I’d have liked to explore more, especially when monitoring hybrid generators with both battery and combustion engines combined

After putting the unit through its paces, I’d highly recommend that other professionals take a look at the PEL 104 Its wireless remote connectivity options make it so useful when remotely surveying electrical systems and it is extremely simple to set up and use. Any electrician working on a three-phase or single-phase system would find this product very useful for remote monitoring and surveying

Eager to enhance his knowledge of EICR coding recommendations, Steve Hewish, Approved Electrician at Turrell (Electrical Contractors), dives into the latest version of the NAPIT Codebreakers publication.

Many of you reading this will understand the scenario where you’re chatting with your colleagues or even your QS and disagree over coding or how to describe faults and potentially dangerous findings on EICRs.

Updated so its content is in line with Amendment 2 to BS 7671, the Codebreakers book is a ‘go to’ guide of almost everything you could find on an electrical inspection If you come across something that’s not installed to the Regulations or a ‘DIY’er’ has had a crack at it, the publication provides you with a recommendation and explanation of what code you should use, and it even goes as far as telling you the regulation number it relates to in BS 7671

I’ve had a number of conversations with other electricians in the last few months over what code I should be assigning to items and how severe that coding should be Having originally acquired the first edition of Codebreakers when it was released, my feeling was that some of the coding recommendations

ALL CODES WELL

were a tad over-cautious

This second edition version really seems to have gone back to the drawing board and liaised with college lecturers and industry professionals to produce a much more in-depth guide that provides great information and support

One thing I’ve learned and accepted over the years is that not everybody knows everything, and it’s always healthy to see other professionals’ perspectives of the reports that you’re carrying out and what they would personally have done

As we all know, some clients don’t seem to want to listen, especially when they carried out the installation themselves or cut corners to save money. Another brilliant feature of the updated Codebreakers publication, therefore, is that you can use the wording provided in the book as a guide or template to explain to the landlord or occupant why you’ve deemed the installation unsafe If they disagree, then you have the backing of a written guide rather than just your opinion

An improvement on the original

They say that most sequels end up as a disappointment, but the second edition of the Codebreakers publication goes a long way to dispelling that myth It’s an excellent resource hat improves the original ersion and is a ‘must-have’ addition to your daily arsenal of tools

Farnborough International puts Rolec EV on a pedestal

Farnborough International was the venue of choice for EV and home energy show Fully Charged LIVE (FCL) South, which took place earlier this year

As the venue prepared to host this year’s event again, it wanted to create a charging network for the use of the 26,279 visitors to the show, and all future events

Rolec EV’s 15 years’ experience and extensive industry knowledge meant that it was no surprise when it was approached to become the official charging partner for the venue

Farnborough International’s primary concern was providing a charging network with the capacity to support charging for the large number of visitors it takes in annually The exhibition centre contains six private car parks, with the capacity to provide parking for 3,500 vehicles

Rolec EV liaised with Rob Pidgen, Carlo Zoccali and Ben Gleeson at Farnborough International, who provided the team with site plans and highlighted areas that would be best suited to chargepoint installation

During planning and installation stages, the specialist EV team worked closely with the client team to coordinate, plan and manage the installation of the nine new Rolec Quantum EV chargers to bring into service within very tight timescales

Of the six car parks on-site, Car Park 4

where the initial install was projected to take place – needed chargepoints installed without digging cable routes. Rolec EV would have to find a solution to

this, ensuring that the units could have adequate access to power.

In preparation for the installation, Rolec's experienced in-house design team produced designs and 3D renders of the bespoke chargers, incorporating the company's brand guidelines meticulously. These designs were then showcased to the Farnborough team, and production promptly commenced the following day

To enable the units in Car Park 4 to have access to power without the need to dig cable trenches, considerations were made for the inclusion of an M40 compression gland to the rear of the pedestal This would allow for the unit to receive an individual electrical supply without the need for subterranean cable routes.

Rolec EV provided all nine fully branded Quantum pedestals prior to the initial Fully Charged LIVE event The first five pedestals were installed in time for the show, followed by the remaining four pedestals in time for Farnborough International’s ITT Hub event two weeks later The initial chargepoint rollout at Fully Charged LIVE successfully provided visitors with access to 10 chargepoints.

The Rolec EV units, powered by Monta, provide visitors with unrivalled visibility of Farnborough International’s charging network, allowing individuals to book charging in advance of their visit

Rolec EV has provided Farnborough International’s visitors with permanent access to 18 super-fast chargepoints for

the purpose of charging their vehicles when visiting any of the venue’s extensive program of events

Over the course of the Fully Charged LIVE event, 84 vehicles received charge and 1 115kWh of electricity was supplied to visitors via Rolec EV chargepoints, generating a total of £666 of additional revenue Chargepoint access has been provided over two car parks – Car Park 1 and Car Park 4

C-TEC PEMBROKE HOUSE

Hush Pro, C-TEC’s BS 5839-6 Grade C domestic fire alarm system, is protecting a radically renovated historic building in Pembrokeshire, Wales

Built in 1839 by local architect, William Owen, and located in the ancient county town of Haverfordwest, Pembroke House is a Grade II listed building which has been transformed from a derelict hotel into 32 high-quality affordable housing apartments

Each studio features an easily accessible low-level Hush Pro Controller, connected to a series of Hush Pro smoke detectors, base sounders, multi-sensors and heat detectors all seamlessly interfaced to a powerful C-TEC XFP 2-loop addressable fire alarm panel to provide fire and fault monitoring and the highest levels of fire protection

Andrew Davies, MD of Ocon Fire and Security, the life-safety specialists who completed the installation, said: “A key factor in our client’s specification of Hush Pro was the system’s ability to notify building management immediately in the event of a real fire and, at the same time, its potential to virtually eliminate false alarms

“Hush Pro’s unique capacity to differentiate

AICO PICKERING CASTLE

English Heritage cares for over 400 historic buildings, monuments and sites – from world famous prehistoric sites to medieval castles

Across these 400 sites are thousands of buildings and spaces which need to be covered by a reliable fire and (CO) system as well as being easy to manage from a repairs and maintenance perspective

To h e l p o v e r c o m e t h e g e o g r a p h i c a l c h a l l e n g e s o f m a n a g i n g l a r g e e s t a t e s , E n g l i s h H e r i t a g e o p t e d t o t r i a l A i c o’s H o m e L I N K C o n n e c t e d H o m e S o l u t i o n w h i c h c o n s i s t s o f A i c o’s E i 1 0 0 0 G G a t e w a y, s m o k e a l a r m s a n d E i 1 0 2 5 E n v i r o n m e n t a l S e n s o r s a t o n e o f i t s s i t e s i n Yo r k s h i r e – P i c k e r i n g C a s t l e T h i s 1 3 t h c e n t u r y c a s t l e h a s b e e n u s e d t h r o u g h t h e c e n t u r i e s a n d n o w c o n t a i n s a v a r i e t y o f b u i l d i n g s i n c l u d i n g a t i c k e t o f f i c e, c h a p e l , c l a s s r o o m a n d t o i l e t b l o c k T h e s y s t e m i n s t a l l e d p r o v i d e s f i r e d e t e c t i o n i n t h e v a r i o u s b u i l d i n g s c o n n e c t e d t o t h e E i 1 0 0 0 G G a t e w a y w h i c h t r a c k s w h e n e v e n t s a r e t r i g g e r e d w i t h i n t h e a l a r m s y s t e m . D e v i c e e v e n t s a r e p r o c e s s e d b y t h e G a t e w a y a s t h e y o c c u r a n d a r e r e p o r t e d t o t h e H o m e L I N K Po r t a l v i a i t s G S M c o n n e c t i o n

between Fire Level 1, usually a false alarm reported locally in the dwelling, and Fire Level 2, almost always a real alarm activated outside of the dwelling, reduces false fire alarms, unnecessary call-outs and the risk of a real fire alarm being ignored As our client required immediate notification in the event of a fire but also first-class false alarm management, Hush Pro proved ideal ”

GET MORE DETAILS ON C-TEC’S HUSH PRO SYSTEM AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU046

Events such as fire alarms, button tests, mains absence, faults, removal of the alarm head and end of life are all reported to the HomeLINK Portal English Heritage can also set up notifications when events are triggered via email or text message. This information is valuable to those managing a dispersed estate as it ensures they’re informed of any events in the system.

GET MORE DETAILS ON AICO’S FIRE SAFETY RANGE BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAU047

CLICK SCOLMORE Antique Brass Finish

Click Scolmore’s Definity Complete range which incorporates screwless, push-fit face plates has now been extended to include the stylish Antique Brass finish Definity Complete has evolved from the well-established Definity flat plate accessory range and features all of the same attributes including modular switching but without the visible fixing screws Because the face plates are supplied independently of the electrical inserts it means that the initial installation of the product can be carried out and any subsequent maintenance or decoration completed before the final fixing of the face plate The inserts are available in black, white and grey and the addition of Antique Brass to the range of cover plate finishes brings the total number of finishes to eight As well as Antique Brass the popular range includes Brushed Steel, Stainless Steel, Polished Chrome, White, Metal White, Matt Black and Metal Black

UNICRIMP

Expanded Q-Crimp Range

XCITE SCOOP Downlight Range

The new adjustable downlight from xcite, SCOOP is fully adjustable up to 350° rotation and has a tilt angle of 45° – providing the trade with a flexible solution to suit many different projects The downlight also comes in two different outputs to accommodate different power outlets, but both help towards providing a more energy efficient lighting system in retail or display applications Other features and benefits include: suitable for retail and display areas; available in two different outputs; fully adjustable up to 350° rotation and 45° tilt; supplied with polished aluminium reflector – 35° beam angle; die-cast aluminium body finished in white; remote driver, supplied as standard with neutral white (4000K) LED; up to 100 lumens per Watt efficacy

KNIGHTSBRIDGE BATSC LED Battens

The new BATSC range of LED battens from Knightsbridge provide energy-efficient, cost-effective and technologically-advanced replacement alternatives to outdated legacy fluorescent lighting in industrial, commercial or office environments The BATSC (batten, self-contained) units are colour temperature and wattage adjustable, offering ultra-high efficiency and contain the latest control chip technology Highly durable owing to their steel and polycarbonate construction, the battens are low maintenance and long-lived in operation, with an estimated lamp life of nearly seven years or 60,000 hours of continuous use Three variants of the battens are available, all offered in 4”, 5” and 6” lengths and in standard or emergency versions All the BATSC LED battens are IP20 rated and feature push-fit loop in-loop out terminals, combined with hinged gear trays, to ensure simple and fast fitting

Unicrimp continues to expand its Q-Crimp range of cable accessories with the addition of a green earth inspection box and hexagon plain driller screws

Designed to house and help protect the connection to an earth point, the new green earth inspection box forms part of the company’s growing earthing rods and components range which was first introduced in 2019 Measuring 100mm x 100mm x 50mm, it is constructed from PA66 to provide high mechanical strength and it is supplied complete with lid, fixings and a safety label Joining the Q-Crimp range of fixings are the new hexagon head plain driller screws These robust screws are designed to save valuable installation time with no need for pre-drilling Because they’re self-drilling this eliminates the need for a pre-drilled pilot hole as the screw performs the drilling, tapping and fastening in one action They’re available in a large range of sizes from 4 8mm x 13mm to 6 3mm x 50mm

A ‘racking’ idea from Rhino Products

Products takes design principles of quality, innovation, and stunning aesthetics to a whole new level, providing van users with the perfect system for organising their tools and equipment.

Each strong yet lightweight van racking system comes with a bespoke fitting kit for every vehicle This means that not only are the length and height of every configuration custom-measured to maximise the storage potential of each van, but the bespoke fitting kit provides the easiest and quickest fitting process possible

Each kit utilises innovative blind-bolts and self-fixing tek screws and is provided with easy-to-follow instructions that show the user how to assemble, fit and exactly where to drill. The new range is built to last with leg panels and shelves made from powder coated high-tensile steel Sleek, modern drawer units with aluminium fronts will also be added to the range later this year

Several optional accessories will also be made available at launch, including Linbins, rubber matting, and shelf dividers A wealth of stylised additional accessories including drop fronts, kick plates, drop doors and storage containers will also be added to the range in the coming months

Shipping of the MR4 range is incredibly quick, thanks to the standard range of shelving and drawer units being flat-packed, in stock and available on a 1 - 3 day delivery service for most locations, with bespoke configurations available for more specific customer requirements

Wall Charger upgrade is 2 good

BG SyncEV has recently introduced its latest range of EV charger, the Wall Charger 2.

Designed with electricians in mind, these Mode 3 chargers offer a multitude of features, ease of installation, and a seamless charging experience The new range builds on the popular EVS and EVT charger, introducing several enhancements

BG SyncEV has made significant improvements to ensure that Wall Charger 2 is easier to install than before. Featuring base and rear entry points, these chargers accommodate various cable types, including SWA and grommeted cables

The electronics have been cleverly positioned in the front part of the charger, making the base section lightweight and simple to install against the wall Furthermore, a single, easy-to-use connector makes the connection, streamlining the installation process and saving valuable time

Wall Charger 2 retains PEN-fault detection and eliminates the need for an earth rod, further simplifying installation requirements Once the unit has been installed, configuration is performed using the BG SyncEV Installer App on smart phone, allow you to easily configure electrical parameters and connect the charger to the Internet

An exciting new feature has been introduced with Wall Charger 2: the ability to change the front-cover colour Now, users can effortlessly match their charger to the surrounding decor, create a visual statement, or even coordinate with the colour of their EV.

Understanding the importance of convenience and versatility, the product includes the popular 7 5m cable length found in the previous product Furthermore, BG SyncEV has done away with the need for a separate wall-mounted charging gun holster, as one is built right into the front of the charger!

The Wall Charger 2 series offers a diverse range of charging options, including the 22kW three phase socketed charger Ideal for sites requiring multiple chargers or demanding higher charging capacities, this model caters to the needs of the growing number of EVs capable of charging at 11kW, even taking full

advantage of the 22kW charging rate on some models.

The unit also boasts intelligent features that allow businesses and commercial premises to exercise control over charger usage The product is powered by Monta and allows site-owners to set up customised access and charging rates, empowering businesses to generate revenue from visitors and the public

In addition, Wall Charger 2 offers compatibility with a wide range of OCPP compliant management solutions, providing flexibility and adaptability during commissioning

To further enhance the installation options of its chargers, BG SyncEV provides a range of charger stands, compatible with all Wall Charger 2 models, as well as the current 7 4kW socketed chargers The stands, available in single and twin configurations, feature an anthracite grey powder-coated anodized steel finish for maximum durability

Smart heating? Look no further than ATC

The key to reducing your heating bills this winter is controllability Thanks to advancements in heating technology, smart options are now available to heat homes, offices and businesses

ATC has two smart heating ranges to choose from:

Smart RF range

The Smart RF family operates through radio-frequency technology. This is set up through an RF Gateway, and works in tandem with the WiFi router for full controllability on-the-go Simply download the Tevolve App to control the heating from anywhere

The range encompasses four electric heating products: radiator, panel heater, low level radiator and heated towel radiator All four work in tandem with one another, and can be controlled in groups or individually.

The Smart RF range is ideal for use in hotels, restaurants, residential developments and healthcare buildings Each model is available in multiple sizes, from 350W through to 2000W

iLifestyle range

The iLifestyle is ATC’s first WiFi electric thermal radiator This high spec radiator can be fully controlled on-the-go via the ATC Cala App

Easy to install, and once fitted, the iLifestyle is free of any ongoing maintenance This WiFi radiator is perfect for use in kitchens, living rooms, dining rooms and office settings Popular applications include home refurbishments, holiday lets, offices and student accommodation

The iLifestyle is available in a range of sizes, from 500W through to 1800W

Indoor and outdoor wireless speaker is ‘the iO1 and only’

Lithe Audio has launched its new iO1 all-in-one wireless speaker that can be used indoors and outdoors in six different mounting configurations

With a powerful amplifier and connectivity all built in, this active surface-mount speaker is easy to install and only requires power from a standard or outdoor electrical outlet or existing lighting circuit to deliver premium audio quality

This versatile weather-resistant IPX6-rated unit offers the option of wireless or data cable connection, with an optical input and two Ethernet ports It features dual full-range woofers, titanium tweeters, and 100W RMS Power (2 x 50W) Class D Amplifiers, delivering full high-resolution audio at 192 kHz, 24 bits

Embedded with Airplay 2, Chromecast and Spotify Connect, it couldn’t be easier to create quality distributed audio It’s also compatible with any other Airplay 2 or Chromecast speaker for multi-room or multi-area set-ups The iO1 also features the latest Bluetooth technology and offers

voice control with Google Home and Alexa. Designed for areas hat require high-end audio quality but can’t accommodate a raditional ceiling speaker, he iO1 can easily be nstalled in six different orientations on-wall, n-corner, on-corner, ground spike, countertop, and pendent. The built-in high-efficiency amplifier and high quality components are covered by an attractive aluminium grille in a choice of white or black finish

“We’re excited to be launching this speaker as there’s nothing like it currently on the market,” says Amit Ravat, MD and co-founder of Lithe Audio

“It’s an active, all-in-one solution that’s configured for all the wireless protocols, easy to use and install in a choice of six configurations – and of course it’s weatherproof It couldn’t be simpler – or more sophisticated!

“We’re particularly excited about the versatility of the speaker for different

markets

from consumers who love the latest smarthome and home entertainment tech, to the hospitality and catering, retail and outdoor audio markets.”

Rapid Fix gets the Masterseal of approval

Installers can now cut the time of their outdoor and indoor projects with MK Electric’s new Masterseal Plus Rapid Fix switchsocket outlet.

Marrying the robust enclosures of MK’s renowned Masterseal Plus range with innovative Rapid Fix tool-less and spring-loaded cable clamps, the new sockets can reduce installation times by up to 45% whilst providing a safe, secure connection that won’t degrade over time

The product is IP66 rated for protection against dust ingress and high-pressure water jets from any direction, as well as IK07 impact rated to withstand the potential knocks and scrapes of commercial and residential environments It is made from high quality materials, won’t discolour, crack or fade in UV light or extreme weather, making it ideally suited for outdoor power needs

Its spring-loaded clamps can accommodate all cable types for small power circuits, including up to 4mm stranded cable Individual cable entry and incorporated colour-coded terminals help make installation more efficient without compromising on product performance

The product is well suited for any job and helps to simplify challenging install locations such as corners and enclosed areas The clamps prevent over- or under-tightening by keeping wires in place with the right amount of pressure

British Standard BS1363 contains provisions for screwless terminals, including a requirement for cables to be subjected to a pull force of 30N in a single direction for 60 seconds, during which time, they should not come loose. The Masterseal Plus Rapid Fix’s screwless terminals have been tested to exceed this requirement to provide a safe and secure install connection.

Supernova explodes on to the EV charging scene

Wallbox is supporting significant advances in the development of EV public charging infrastructure, as evidenced by the fact it has sold more than 1,000 Supernova DC rapid chargers in 30 countries over the course of the last year

This is an important milestone that proves how crucial reliable chargers are to building adequate public charging networks

Supernova was a product designed to provide a seamless integration between hardware and software, to reduce wear and increase the lifetime of the charger. Customers of the first 1,000 units, which include Iberdrola, BeCharge, and Atlante, reflect the quality of the charger, the technological expertise provided by Wallbox and overall customer satisfaction The product has been produced in-house, which allowed for short lead times and rapid deployment

Wallbox’s DC rapid charger Supernova, which can charge up to 100 km in just seven minutes, has been designed to offer a seamless and user-centric charging experience The charger has an interactive lighting system to offer clear guidance to the user during the charging session. The charger also allows for a number of payment options to streamline transactions, including a credit card reader, and has a 10” touchscreen to simplify the process for users To ensure broad accessibility Supernova has been made available with CCS or CHAdeMO connectors

Aware that the market can struggle with reliability, Wallbox

designed Supernova with a six-module design to improve uptime by ensuring that users can continue to charge, even in the unlikely event that a single power module fails In addition, its design enables easy access for in-person maintenance and remote troubleshooting to reduce the need for on-site visits Customisable service packages are also on offer, such as preventive and corrective maintenance, tailored to actual operating conditions.

Each Supernova has two charging dispensers that allow for simultaneous charging The charger has in-built dynamic allocation which allows for between 60 and 90 kW per outlet when a second car plugs in This means that each unit can charge two cars at a time by enabling dynamic energy distribution to provide the maximum possible power to both EVs

The charger is suitable for locations with limited energy, such as petrol stations, high power charge hubs, car dealers, and shopping centres and its reduced physical footprint makes it adaptable for numerous locations, opening more potential sites to scale a network faster, while enabling an easier implementation and better ROI

SNICKERS WORKWEAR Work Trousers

The sustainable, street-smart, body-mapping features of Snickers

Workwear work trousers make them the clothes of choice for those who want to work at their best The AllroundWork trousers suit any kind of work in any trade FlexiWork trousers deliver superior freedom of movement, while LiteWork trousers keep you cool, dry and ventilated Then there’s Ruff Work trousers, reinforced and tough for the toughest work on-site. Snickers Workwear trousers also deliver certified protection with the patented KneeGuard system and CORDURA reinforcement for greater flexibility, comfort and durability

HAMILTON LITESTAT GRID LEDITB250 Dimmer

Featuring 14 new on-trend finishes, the Grid-Fix inlay plate can now match your chosen face plate and/or rocker finish, resulting in a more coordinated look

No more plastic finish inlays and no more lock nut – just one stylish push on/off rotary 2-way switching 250W grid plate dimmer

Features and benefits include:

l Control up to 250W of mains dimmable LEDs

l 1-way or 2-way push on/off switching – perfect for retrofit

l Manually select dimmer mode (leading or trailing edge)

l A choice of 14 metallic inlay plate finishes

l White, black and quartz grey trim options

l Soft start up and down feature helps extend lamp life

l User settings for minimum dim level and mode setting

l Built-in thermal circuit protection against overheating

l LEDITB100 – 100W version also available.

ROBUS

MACAU COB RGB

Featuring chip-on-board (COB) technology, the new MACAU COB RGB is now available in RGB, offering a continuous light effect in colour options It provides a smooth dot-less effect, without the need for extrusions as it utilises COB technology Available in both IP20 and IP67 it’s ideal for standard indoor applications such as bars, clubs and restaurants, along with higher water ingress areas such as bathrooms and kitchens There’s a range of clear, clip connectors available, which will make joining your strips an easy task

CED ELECTRICAL Axiom Detector Alarms

Axiom is upgrading is range of smoke, heat and Carbon Monoxide alarms with up-to-date technology and modern attractive designs – all CE and UK/CA approved Smoke and heat alarms comprise 10-year Lithium battery versions and mains power options complete with 9V alkaline battery back-up Supplied with mounting brackets, this RF range pair seamlessly with each other and can link with up to 40 alarms The Carbon Monoxide Alarm is a stand-alone sensor that detects CO from any combustion source Powered by a 10-year lithium battery and supplied with a wall mount, this alarm features an LED indicator and test/hush button Finally, a wireless remote controller with test, silence and location functions has been introduced, ideal for convenient control of triggered smoke or heat alarms. Fitted with a three-year replaceable Cr2450 battery, it’s tamper-proof and simple to install

You’re looking at a bright future with PowerLed

With continuous technological advancement in the lighting industry, LEDs have become an increasingly popular alternative for conventional systems One trusted and expert designer and manufacturer of unique LED lighting products is PowerLed.

The company, which has been trading for nearly three decades, offers an extensive range of intelligent commercial LED lighting options and prides itself on the manufacture of dependable ‘fit and forget’ products, bringing several advantages, from energy savings and reduced maintenance to an overall reduction in the cost of ownership when compared with traditional fixtures, to lighting applications.

PowerLed’s products feature premium components and leading-edge technologies which enable its solutions to be utilised across a wide spectrum of applications, from retail and industrial to offices, marine, and beyond

The company incorporates Tier 1 LED driver technology and chipsets which, coupled with its long history in finished product production, has resulted in a range of high-quality fixtures with an extended life, offering dependable minimum 50,000-hour lighting solutions

Its range of LED power supplies is suited to both indoor and outdoor applications and in

addition to standard features such as power factor correction and high efficiency, offer multiple control options including DALI and Casambi

All PowerLed LED drivers meet UK, European and US certification requirements as detailed by UK European and International safety agencies, and offer a warranty of up to five years PowerLed is also the only tier 1 MEAN WELL partner in the UK, providing access to more than 10,000 products from one of the largest switch mode power supply manufacturers in the world

PowerLed is committed to customer service excellence and its products are supported by a professional range of services, including professional lighting design at no extra cost, with the company’s expert team available to assist with the selection of the most appropriate and effective options, as well as technical support by phone or online

The brand’s expertise in both lighting and power technology plus mass production translates well into innovative, constantly evolving LED products with continuously improving efficiency and reliability

Based in Berkshire, PowerLed offers a UK-wide support network which offers expert advice, bespoke technical design support, and premium LED drivers and lighting solutions for a wide range of commercial and industrial applications All products meet both environmental and performance criteria while offering value for money.

CHAUVIN ARNOUX Updated Range of Clamp Multimeters

The F400 and F600 range of clamp multimeters from Chauvin Arnoux just got an upgrade! The new F402, F404, F406, F604 and F606 clamp multimeter models extend the operating range beyond that of the existing F400 and F600 Series and adapts them for use with modern large scale photovoltaic applications. In compliance with all the applicable standards, the new F series clamps now have a test voltage measurement range from 1000 V to 1200 V for AC and from 1000 V to 1700 V for DC or AC+DC (depending on model) and benefit from a fast 12-bit TRMS digital acquisition system, offering a high level of accuracy for a varying range of signals Ideal for low-power or medium-power low-voltage applications such as maintenance in tertiary or industrial installations, the F series models are designed to produce accurate measurements in all types of installations while providing maximum safety The backlit LCD screen makes it easy to read measurements and offer both contrast and viewing angles on the instrument up to 10,000 counts With varied clamping diameters up to 60mm and a shockproof band to protect against falls, the F clamp range always ensures clear and reliable measurements

LUCECO Platform App

Luceco Lighting has announced an exciting strategic partnership with Silvair, a pioneer in wireless lighting control technology Luceco Platform transforms existing lighting installations and creates a simple and efficient wireless communication system offering dimming, scene-setting, presence, and daylight control, all helping to reduce energy consumption and operating costs, whilst creating a comfortable lit environment Based on the advanced technology developed by Silvair, the now available to download Luceco Platform App offers a new range of tools for lighting system commissioning, radically enhancing user convenience and operational efficiency, to provide seamless integration with the existing Luceco Lighting portfolio Platform aligns with Luceco's core sustainability commitment to reducing its own, and its customers' carbon footprint Recognising the crucial role of energy efficiency in protecting the environment, Luceco Platform incorporates an innovative energy monitoring feature This tool allows users to keep a close eye on energy consumption, making it much simpler to monitor and manage resources responsibly and effectively

MAKITA

Cordless Microwave Oven

Makita has launched its eagerly anticipated cordless microwave oven Driven by the company’s powerful 40VMax XGT battery, the new MW001GZ is designed for portability, allowing users to enjoy hot, microwaved meals in minutes, whether on-site, on the road, or at leisure The 8-litre capacity MW001GZ is powered by one or two 40VMax XGT batteries and is designed to utilise the power sequentially for continuous power when it’s needed With two output settings – 500W or 350W – the inner heating area is large enough to fit most microwave containers and provides a continuous heating time of up to 37 minutes (when used with two BL4080F batteries at 500W output) To withstand tough conditions such as building sites, this compact and durable microwave has been manufactured with a tempered door glass and is dust and water resistant The appliance also features large carry handles for easy transportation and is also supplied with a carry strap A USB port is also built-in for charging devices such as mobile phones As part of Makita’s XGT battery platform, this exciting product fits in seamlessly with Makita’s expanding XGT power tool collection, enabling users to swap batteries between tasks and switch to the microwave when required

Remodel your EV experience with premium charge points

premium charge points for electric vehicles (EVs), supplying its minimalist A2 charging unit for domestic installation since 2018

Each customisable unit is handmade to order at the company’s production facility in the UK, using quality components and highly durable materials for the stylish exterior. Combining smart technology with genuine craftsmanship, the Andersen A2 is a unique proposition in the home charging market – a key reason why it is recommended by both Porsche and Jaguar Land Rover

From the outset, Andersen offers a different experience to customers In April of this year, it launched an AR tool to help the user envisage the appearance of the A2 unit in different positions on the exterior of their home, as well as tailor the colour and finish of the unit’s outer panel in digital 3D renders to best suit their taste and the specific location

love their home as much as their car

When specifying their own A2, customers can choose from one of the most extensive colour palettes available with any EV charge point There are over 120 customisable finishes – including four durable natural wood options – to match modern or period homes, or even the colour of the user’s car. Earlier this year, Andersen launched a hydrographic carbon fascia to bring a high-tech edge to the home EV charging experience

The A2 is the only home charger where the tethered cable and plug are completely hidden inside the minimalist casing when not in use, eliminating unwanted visual clutter. The unit provides a wealth of technological features to facilitate charging with minimum fuss, making it compatible with homes of the future Solar integration allows users to charge their EV using locally generated electricity, while integrated

users to select their energy provider and specific tariff

Installers are seen as an extension of the Andersen team, delivering next-level customer care and acting as representatives of the brand and its values Andersen has its own team of in-house installers who work alongside a network of affiliate partners located across the UK.

Members of Andersen’s affiliate scheme have access to exclusive volume-related discounts, as well as market-leading support directly from the head office Following dedicated Andersen training led by the company’s install manager, affiliates are furnished with comprehensive technical materials and ready access to in-house experts for ongoing support.

LINIAN Increased Stockists

LINIAN has announced that its network of stockists has grown to over 500 stores Regular upgrading of compliance regulations, including the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, has intensified a universal need for more efficient, higher quality fire-rated cable clips and other time-saving and compliant products for the fire and security, electrical, and fibre markets. The situation has driven significant interest in LINIAN clips not only in the UK but in many countries around the world In meeting the demand, and in establishing new markets, LINIAN has secured a network of dedicated wholesale stockists in the UK and Ireland So, if you love LINIAN cable management or earthing fast fit products or you would like to try them out, you can find your nearest stockist on the LINIAN webpage

ETERNA LIGHTING

ELUCIAN CU Accessories Expansion

The latest additions to the Elucian by Click consumer unit accessories range include three recessed frames and two cable entry plates The recessed frames are designed to fit around 16, 18 and 22 way consumer units, allowing the consumer units to be recess mounted The installer simply needs to drill holes in the consumer unit and attach the frame using four screws, eight serrated washers and four nuts. The consumer unit cable entry plates will provide protection against sharp edges for cables and offer a greater rigidity when pulling cables through the rear of any Elucian CU The breakaway sections located in the centre of the cable entry plate can be removed as required for the preferred installation method. The nylon cable entry plates are designed to clip into the aperture left by the removal of the rear knockouts on the consumer unit They’re available in two size widths – small, 69mm and large, 109mm

KNIPEX

185mm Needle-Nose Combination Pliers

KNIPEX Needle-Nose Pliers, which are now also available in a length of 185mm, are high leverage combination pliers with pointed jaws, offering a further development of the classic combination pliers from the famous KNIPEX Wuppertal tool forge With these versatile pliers, tasks on electrical installations can be carried out effortlessly as they can cope perfectly with tight, hard-to-reach work areas The flexible pliers are twist-proof and full of power with a high lever transmission power joint that makes it easier to cut soft, medium-hard and hard wire, making the pliers a high leverage diagonal cutter

Colour Selectable Under Cabinet Light Fitting

The new LINKCS range is the latest product launch from Eterna Lighting A linkable under cabinet light fixture with three colour temperatures and five years’ warranty as standard, the LINKCS range does as its name implies; linking together quickly and easily to create simple and energy efficient lines of light for kitchens and workbenches With an on-board driver, and connection cables and fixings supplied in the box as standard, it is easy to stock, easy to install, and easy to use

an excellent choice to support residential, hospitality and commercial under cabinet applications Choose to control from the mains connection, or individually with the integral rocker switch, and select between warm white, cool white or daylight white to suit the use area or preference via a sliding switch on the back The LINKCS range comes in three lengths which can be connected in a continuous run of 12 fittings, and the additional link lead accessory offers further flexibility for tricky corners or changes in direction

CONTINUE YO UR P ROF E S SION A L DEVELOPMENT AT ELE X SHOW!

Taking place across two days, at three remaining regional venues, the ELEX 2023 calendar is in full swing. Furthermore, we’ve got great news for visitors that are serious about their CPD!

Recent 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

YOUR S H OW, NEA R YO U. . .

l At a venue near you

l Across two days

l Free parking (van friendly)

l Free entry

l Free T-Shirt & a free bacon roll* (*limited to first 1,000 visitors)

l Show bargains

l Hands-on demos

l Meet manufacturers

l Networking opportunities

l CPD accredited seminars and certificates

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

ELEX returns later this month with a visit to the CBS Arena in Coventry (14th/15th), with stops at Exeter and Surrey later on in the year

C AM E RA

SOCIAL SNAPS!

TOM

A microwave and a small water heater were plugged into this 32A ring circuit The customer was suspicious after some other dodgy work was carried out by this ‘electrician’ Maybe the link is for an earth loop test

ADVERTISER INDEX

Here is a useful summary of all the adverts that appear in this issue of Professional Electrician. Each is listed with its page number and a direct URL that will get you straight to the relevant online information.