Professional Electricians Wholesaler November/December 2020

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PROFESSIONAL

ELECTRICIANS WHOLESALER THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR ELECTRICAL WHOLESALERS

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020

HAVE YOU SWITCHED ON TO SOCIAL MEDIA?

EDA INSIGHT

CIRCUIT PROTECTION Your role in protecting lives

Wiring devices and controls – test yourself with the latest quiz from the EDA

NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Stand out from the crowd with the latest products

Plus: News, business advice, sales support, display solutions and more

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CONTENTS

This issue

PEW OCTOBER 2020 VOLUME 3 NUMBER 7

Regulars 5

VIEWPOINT

6

NEWS

7

WHOLESALER NEWS

8

IN PROFILE

11

DISTRIBUTION SEEKERS

32 EDA INSIGHT A quick quiz to test your wiring devices and controls knowledge

Special Report

12 MOVERS & SHAKERS

14 GET ‘SELF’ AWARE Growth in self-test emergency lighting

35 TRAINING 37 PRODUCTS

16 RIGHT LIGHT, RIGHT TIME The latest LED lighting trends

42 GIVEAWAY Cover image: AdobeStock_djvstock

CIRCUIT PROTECTION 19 TRIED AND TESTED Your role in providing safe products 22 POWER PROTECTION The modular approach for home and office workers 24 CURRENT TRENDS Demand increasing for energy storage protection ©AdobeStock_Sikov

NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

19 Wholesaler responsibility to supplying tested products

26 THE SOCIAL EXPERIMENT Are you utilising social media?

28 COMMISSION POSSIBLE Commission service an attractive package for wholesalers 30 TO THE MAX How to maximise sales in a crowded market

26 Social Media and its business benefits

16

Find out the latest LED trends PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIANS WHOLESALER NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 3

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VIEWPOINT

JUST BREATHE Editor Michael Connolly mconnolly@hamerville.co.uk Group Editor Richard Bowler pe@hamerville.co.uk Advertising Manager Anthony Scott ascott@hamerville.co.uk Assistant Advertising Manager Ian Turner Ianturner@hamerville.co.uk Designer Gemma Watson Group Production Manager Carol Padgett Production Assistant Claire Swendell Circulation Manager Kirstie Day Managing Editor Terry Smith Publisher Bryan Shannon Professional Electricians Wholesaler is an essential business magazine for those with decision-making responsibilities within electrical wholesalers To be removed from this magazine’s circulation please call 01923 237799 or email: circulation@hamerville.co.uk Printed by Walstead Roche Ltd Published by

HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF. Tel: (01923) 237799 Fax: (01923) 246901 Copyright © 2020

A

s we get to the end of a turbulent and stressful year, it’s important we all take a minute out from our hectic lives to take a breath. To say that things have been difficult over the last 12 months would be an understatement and like many industries, the electrotechnical and construction industry as a whole has suffered to varying degrees. At times like these it’s important to keep an eye on those closest around you and ask them how they are doing, as money, family issues, job security and feelings of isolation and loneliness are becoming more and more common.

Seasonal depression tends to creep in at this time of the year with the days getting shorter, colder and darker many can find it hard to get any kind of happiness from their life.

With the on-going consequences of Covid-19 still having an impact on the lives of so many people, the feeling of depression, anxiety and loneliness is only being exacerbated further.

The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) is doing some fantastic work in the electrical industry to support a huge number of people. The EIC is well equipped to help anyone working within the industry with issues surrounding: family or relationship problems, financial or legal worries, emotional or mental health problems and ill health or disability. I urge you to reach out to the people at EIC should you need help with any of these issues or if you know anyone who could benefit from talking with them.

A great campaign to bear in mind is one from a social movement that aims to change the attitude towards people’s mental health called ‘time for change’. The idea is to ‘ask twice’ meaning that if you ask someone if they are ok and they say yes, ask again as research shows that 1 in 4 people are experiencing a mental health problem and may not be ok, so ask again and maybe that will give them the opportunity to open up. With suicide being the number one killer of men aged under 42, it is important now more than ever that we look out for one another as we make it through the other end of this, quite frankly, awful year.

Looking forward to next year, with a potential Covid vaccination in the pipeline, a small glimmer of light is beginning to appear at the end of the tunnel. I hope you and your nearest and dearest can enjoy what’s left of this year in any way you can and hopefully we will be back to normal soon.

Have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year, we all deserve it!

Michael Connolly Michael Connolly Editor

TONY CABLE 1942-2020 It is with great sadness that PEW has to report the death of industry legend, Tony Cable, following a long battle with illness. A 60-year veteran of the electrical industry, there's very little that Tony didn't know about being an electrician. Born with the initials AC (Anthony Cable), Tony's versatility as a professional saw him turn his hand to many roles, including as a maintenance man, company director, helpline engineer, author and presenter. Indeed, his entertaining and always informative presentations as part of the Certsure team with partner-in-crime Darren Staniforth helped countless sparks to gain a better understanding of crucial technical subjects. Tony also produced the long-running 'Final Fix' series of articles for our sister magazine PE, detailing the many stories from his life as a working apprentice and electrician. A devoted family man, Tony was a friend to all that he met and he will be sorely missed by all those who were privileged to know him. PEW would like to extend its best wishes and condolences to Tony's family, friends and colleagues.

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NEWS & VIEWS COVID-19 RESPONSE RECOGNISED

MARSHALL-TUFFLEX BUSINESS HERO AWARD Marshall-Tufflex has been recognised by the British Chambers of Commerce as a ‘UK Business Hero’ for its immediate response to meet demand for its antimicrobial trunking for the emergency NHS Nightingale Hospitals.

Launched in early October by the British Chambers of Commerce, the UK Business Heroes campaign recognises the incredible work that UK businesses have undertaken to combat the challenges presented by COVID-19. Marshall-Tufflex was nominated by Ana Christie, CEO of Sussex Chamber of Commerce, for its work on the emergency NHS Nightingale Hospitals, which were created in response to the pandemic breakout.

The Hastings based manufacturer was approached to supply its anti-microbial cable trunking for the facilities, which uses a silver ion solution that disrupts key cell functions of bacteria and prevents them from reproducing – meaning 99.9% of harmful bacteria will not survive on the surface.

To meet the immense volumes and urgency, Marshall-Tufflex completely changed its manufacturing and distribution operation, with the factory running 24 hours a day, seven days a

week, and factory teams working additional hours and over weekends to deliver the required quantities.

The logistics team also transformed its procedures, with multiple drops required per day to meet demand for flexible and urgent deliveries with many the same day.

Paul Mitchell, Managing Director at Marshall-Tufflex, comments: "I'm extremely proud of the team at Marshall-Tufflex and key suppliers

involved with meeting demand for such an exceptional project.

“In these unprecedented times, the emergency NHS Nightingale Hospitals required an extraordinary volume of our antimicrobial trunking to be manufactured and delivered in a very short amount of time. To be recognised as a Business Hero for our teams outstanding work and innovative new processes is absolutely brilliant, and we are honoured.”

TAMLITE JOINS ‘MADE IN BRITIAN’ Tamlite Lighting, one of the UK’s largest privately-owned lighting companies, is celebrating its British origins having been granted membership to the Made in Britain organisation.

Made in Britain supports and promotes British manufacturing, enabling buyers and consumers at home and abroad to identify British-made products.

Founded in 1967, Tamlite has continued to build on its success which, alongside supplying high quality lighting solutions, believes is due to having its extensive research and development, testing and manufacturing facilities based in the heart of Britain.

With Brexit looming, the Midlands

based company says there has never been a better time to buy British products and be part of an organisation which brings together the British manufacturing community, promoting members to businesses and consumers in the UK and overseas.

With 24% of construction products used in the UK being imported, new customs rules could have an impact on supplies from January 1st 2021, and buying British products will lessen the impact of any disruption within the supply chain, says Tamlite’s Managing Director John Allden.

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John comments: “We are delighted to receive accreditation as a member of Made in Britain. Every part of our business is underpinned with the British culture of quality, unparalleled service and value, and as we have grown, we have stayed committed to these pillars. They provide the foundations on which we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of lighting technology and development.

Our aim is to deliver excellence at every level of the supply chain and the Made in Britain mark will help our customers identify Tamlite as a company that they can trust.”

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WHOLESALER NEWS

In association with Scolmore

eda member selected for etim role

SIMON BARKES ELECTED ETIM INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT Simon Barkes has been elected as the fourth President of ETIM International and, following a formal handover in November 2020, will lead the organisation for the next three years. A long-time champion of digitalisation for the UK’s electrotechnical sector, it was in 2017 during the second of his two EDA Presidencies, that Simon led the introduction of the ETIM global data standard to this country.

ETIM is the international data model for the standardisation and classification of technical product data and is managed by ETIM International from its Belgium HQ. As ETIM International President Simon succeeds Jan Janse, formerly of Sonepar, to lead an Executive Board of five representatives drawn from ETIM Member countries: North America, Norway, Finland, the Netherlands and Germany. There are currently 22 country members of ETIM International, including the UK. Simon, MD at EDA Member BEMCO (British Electrical and Manufacturing Company), says: “It is an honour to be part of the team leading the strategic direction of ETIM. Since the EDA

launched its digitalisation drive in 2017 the UK has made huge progress: the standard has been Anglicised for our market; the EDA has established a data team led by Margaret Fitzsimons, EDA CEO and Richard Appleton, General Manger at EDA Data Services; we’ve launched the EDATA data pool which contains ETIM-ready data; and the BMF has seen the benefit of ETIM for their members and has come on board as champion for the HVAC & Plumbing and Building Materials sectors.

“The pandemic has shown how much we all depend upon ecommerce in our business and personal lives. Access to high quality product data is key to the wholesalers’ online sales success and the pressure is on to keep pace with customers who want the knowledge that trade counter teams have but backed by the convenience of ecommerce.”

CED & SPELSBERG PARTNERSHIP The CED Electrical Group, in its 26th year has partnered with Spelsberg, a market leader in the German electrical industry with 116 years’ experience in electrical installation and enclosure technology.

For CED, Ravi Sood and Jayanti Velani began the business in 1994 and both maintain that same drive for success as hands on Directors today. As for Spelsberg, the company began in 1904 as Kaiser & Co with joint owners Walther Kaiser and Gunther Spelsberg, but in 1956 it became simply Spelsberg as the families went their separate ways.

Both the CED Electrical Group and Spelsberg have a very similar philosophy regarding value for money with the former offering high quality products at affordable prices whilst Spelsberg offer Innovative, quality products at fair prices.

Proud to be its biggest distributor of contractor type junction boxes in the UK, CED stock and supply six series of

Spelsberg junction boxes – all displaying the value for money, innovation and ease of installation characteristics of both companies. These include the renowned A-Box range of outdoor boxes, the Mini 25 series designed for confined spaces, the HP-Box series, the Q-Box range with top cable entry for quick installation, the B-Box series with self-inlet membranes plus the SD-Box range with a safe opening and closing mechanism.

This CED Electrical Group partnership with Spelsberg is still in its early stages but similar business philosophies on product benefits and value for money offer both Companies a real development opportunity.

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IN PROFILE

HEATING UP Electrorad has been supplying electric radiators since the year 2000. 20 successful years later and the company is still growing rapidly in both size and reputation.

B

eing the company that first brought German electric radiators to the UK marketplace 18 years ago, the company has grown to hold several ranges of radiators, panel heaters, towel rails and water heaters.

There have been so many changes to legislation within the industry, the largest being the Eco Design Lot20 compliance in 2018. Electrorad took that opportunity to not only ensure its compliance to the new regulations, but to exceed it. Adding features such as Geo-Location functions, Alexa/Google Home compatibility and some of the most accurate thermostats available to its radiators. It now boasts a

suite of radiators and heaters that are technologically some of the most sophisticated in the market.

Product pride Electrorad prides itself on being able to offer styles and electric radiators and heaters to most budget requirements. In the last five years the company has not only expanded its product range, it also expanded the premises and has a team of Sales Managers across the country who work closely with wholesalers, contractors and developers to ensure that they receive the very best service and, more importantly, the right products for their

needs. Working from both architects plans and simple drawings the team can provide concise heating plans with quick turnarounds.

Making it easy Electrorad is constantly working with R&D teams to ensure its products are the first with any new technological advancements, the Vanguard+ range for example was the first to have Alexa compatibility. The company is always listening to what its customers need and constantly striving to ensure the radiators tick all the boxes.

Electrorad’s products offer genuine fit and forget electric central heating solutions for both contractors and specifiers, and bring a high degree of comfort and heat efficiency for the end user. Available in a wide range of heat outputs and styles, they are slimline and modern in design and some can even be RAL colour matched.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

To learn more about Electrorad and its range of electric heating solutions, visit: www.rdr.link/wu001

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DISTRIBUTION SEEKERS

TIME IS MONEY With a growing reputation for innovative, time-saving products, Cattano explains what the company can offer the forward-thinking distributor.

Background Cattano specialises in developing and marketing award-winning innovative products for electricians and other trades.

We work with inventors, designers, manufacturers, branding experts and IP attorneys to develop and market new products for tradespeople. Our BoxMate and SocketMate products are now available to electrical distributors. Other practical inventions — designed to reduce time on the job in two key areas — are in the pipeline.

Two of the most recent products that are making waves in the electrical industry are the BoxMate and SocketMate. Both of these products are aimed at reducing the time it takes fixing sockets on site for your customer, whilst offering a simple, cost effective solution. Below you can see the reasons why so many electricians are already saving time and effort with these new innovations.

SocketMate When fitting sockets to back boxes, repeated adjustments are often needed to ensure the socket is level. SocketMate

overcomes the problem and saves time on the job. SocketMate is, in effect, a plug-in spirit level that enables electricians to level the socket first time, every time. Its thoughtful design includes features which ensure good screwdriver access, eliminate the need to crouch down, and make the tool easy to remove. SocketMate is Cattano’s latest offering, and was launched at ELEX earlier this year to an enthusiastic reception from trade visitors.

FACT FILE: Company address: 1 Cavendish Court South Parade Doncaster DN1 2DJ Telephone: 01302 591850 Website: wholesale.cattano.com Company vision: Cattano develops and markets innovative products for electricians and other trades. Our aim is simple: to save tradespeople time on site.

and adapts to fit variations in box size. In 2019, BoxMate won a coveted Top Product award from Professional Electrician and Installer magazine.

BoxMate BoxMate is a new answer to an old problem — plaster ingress into back boxes.

When electricians return to site for second fix, they often find that wet plaster has spread into open back boxes and solidified into a mass. This means they have to waste time digging out solid plaster before they can complete the wiring. BoxMate is a temporary cover which solves the problem.

The electrician simply pushes a BoxMate into each box after first fix to keep plaster out, and removes it when returning to site for second fix. The product can be re-used

Marketing support Cattano believes in working flexibly with individual distributors to support their specific needs, and has a dedicated distributor website for direct ordering. To help distributors launch products in-store and get sales underway, the company offers Distributor Starter Packs, comprising an eye-catching countertop display unit with a small initial stock.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

For further information on becoming a Cattano distributor, visit: www.rdr.link/wu002, or call: 01302 590815.

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS It’s been a busy few months in the electrical industry, with new appointments and shake-ups across different sectors. Keep up to date with the latest movements here, as we detail who has gone where.

Jeremy Palmer Drayton Drayton has appointed Jeremy Palmer as UK Sales Director for Residential Temperature Control (RTC) – Connected Living, helping to bolster its team responsible for the ever-growing smart home market.

Jeremy re-joins Schneider Electric as part of the Drayton team, having started his professional career in the Schneider Graduate scheme in 2006.

Over the past three years, Jeremy has acquired a wealth of experience within the connected technologies sector in his role as European Sales Director for Connected Buildings at Honeywell. Prior to this, Jeremy also worked for six years at Phillips, where he held several sales and service leadership roles.

In his new role as UK Sales Director for Residential Temperature Controls, Jeremy will be focussed on developing targeted, data-driven sales strategies, particularly for Drayton’s smart offering, Wiser.

Dan Grainger and James Maiden LEW LEW Electrical Distributors has announced two new appointments for its Sheffield branch. Dan Grainger (left) has joined as Sales Account Manager and James Maiden has joined as Trade Counter Manager.

They will be tasked with continuing a quality and value service for both public and trade customers for all their electrical requirements. Customers will benefit from having expertise and product knowledge all in one place on major brands such as Hager, KSR and Schneider. James Hancock, LEW Sheffield Unit Manager, explains why this appointment is a great chance for LEW to further strengthen its customer base in Sheffield and the south Yorkshire area: “I’m delighted to welcome both Dan and James to the Sheffield branch of LEW. We used to work together when we started out so I know how strong these individuals are.”

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Michael Dunn Scolmore Group Scolmore is delighted to have secured former BSI electrical testing engineer, Michael Dunn, to take up the role of Senior Testing Engineer for the Scolmore Group of companies.

Michael brings with him a wealth of experience garnered during an impressive career which includes working within electrical installation and maintenance with a number of contracting firms in the early years, and latterly as Electrical and Lighting Testing Engineer for BSI. He joins from his most recent role as Electrical Testing Team Leader with BSI. At Scolmore he will be working alongside the technical team, providing vital product testing services across the whole group – Scolmore, ESP, Ovia and Unicrimp. He will have overall responsibility for managing the testing requirements for effective delivery of compliant products.

Paul Constantine Marshall-Tufflex Attracted by the company’s strong recycling message, Sussex local Paul was also impressed by MarshallTufflex’s scale of operations and innovative production methods that includes intelligent robot and automation systems to improve efficiency and maintain the high quality of the products.

With a financial background spanning a range of sectors, Paul’s wealth of experience will be applied to the Financial Director role, building strong finance platforms that will enable Marshall-Tufflex to continue to meet its strategic growth objectives.

Paul comments: “Marshall-Tufflex has an excellent heritage here in the UK, with an incredibly forwardthinking recycling message that is upheld within the company but is also consistently promoted throughout the supply chain. The fact that so many employees have remained with the business for several years is testament to the positive company work culture and with these strong values in place I was immediately drawn to the role.”

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SPECIAL REPORT

GET ‘SELF’ AWARE

The growth in self-test emergency lighting has been well documented but primarily it has been seen as a way of keeping costs under control without sacrificing safety. Here Knightsbridge explains why there are more than just safety benefits for end users.

T

hough BS 5266 calls for a function test once a month and an annual full rated duration discharge is performed and logged for all emergency lighting installations, the costs of employing an engineer to come and do that can be prohibitive. Typically, a routine test would involve the following:

● Turn off the local mains supply ● Verify each luminaire is operating in

emergency mode and meets the rated duration ● Turn the mains supply back on and check that the luminaires are charging ● Record all results in an emergency test schedule report

facilities manager now only has to check the LED status indicators and record the results on the test schedule. This results in a less labour-intensive testing procedure, leading to a quicker payback on the initial cost of installation, especially in a large, complex building – a great selling point.

Additional benefits In addition to the reduced labour required to perform monthly checks, self-test luminaires also have the added benefits of: ● Reducing human error in tests ● Instant fault indication ● Self-diagnosis identifies any

component failure ● No more delays in testing as it can be

carried out within normal business hours And it’s not just the cost of an engineer but the hidden costs of downtime, loss of productivity and inconvenience to inhabitants or staff.

Building benefits Emergency lighting fitted with self-testing control gear that can perform some of these actions is clearly beneficial. As the name implies, an emergency light fitted with self-testing control gear can carry out the mandatory tests in accordance with national legislation, then report back the results via LED indicators, and in some cases, an audible alarm.

Importantly, all faults will continue to be indicated until they are rectified.

Therefore, the building owner or

These benefits really are the major selling points and are good reasons why self-test emergency lighting should be on everybody’s stocking inventory.

Knightsbridge solution At Knightsbridge, self-test emergency lighting products offer the same all-important considerations of convenience, compliance, cost savings, and ease of fault identification. It’s a comprehensive, LED-powered range, which is ideal for retail, commercial, industrial and HMO applications, and comprises of a robust bulkhead unit, a contemporary downlight, high lumen twin spotlights, and two lightweight exit signs.

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The self-test feature is built into each product and conducts routine functional and duration testing in accordance with the relevant standards, negating the need for costly manual testing and intervention other than to record and rectify faults.

After installation and an initial 24 hour charging period, each product conducts its own self-test operation. This comprises of a three hour duration test, after which a 30 second ‘monthly’ function test is carried out every 28 days, and then yearly another three hour duration test. Following every self-test sequence, the unit will revert to charging mode.

Lighting the way The unit’s status and any fault modes are shown by the bi-colour LED indicator. A green light is displayed in normal running mode, while a red light operates to indicate the following: one red flash indicates a battery fault, two red flashes a lamp fault, and three red flashes a duration test failure.

Manual initiation of the testing procedure is also possible should it be required.

Further peace of mind is ensured by the three year warranty that comes with every product. The self-test luminaires puts safety first while requiring minimum manual intervention post installation, therefore keeping costs down for the end user, whilst pushing your profits up.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

To learn more about the self-test emergency lighting products from Knightsbridge, visit: www.rdr.link/wu003

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SPECIAL REPORT

Office, hospitality and industrial facilities have been keen to get on board with the LED lighting revolution.

The much-improved quality of lighting, combined with the opportunity to save energy costs and improve employee productivity, has encouraged many facilities managers to ‘make the switch’ to LED installations.

RIGHT LIGHT, RIGHT TIME

W

ithin these three sectors, some key trends are emerging that will assist lighting designers and wholesalers in their recommendations to facilities managers on how lighting can be best refined for purpose in these valuable workspaces.

Powering industry Light can fulfil a wide range of different functions and purposes in industry. The wealth of applications stretches from illuminating entire assembly halls to lighting smaller units, and from production preparation through to rooms for product tests and quality assurance. Lighting in industrial facilities must meet the demanding requirements of dusty, damp, hot or vibrating environments. Instead of settling for ‘off-the-shelf’ solutions, lighting fixtures specifically designed for industrial use are now in high demand. One notable trend is the increased popularity for dampproof lighting solutions. These are a must-have for factories with high amounts of residues in the air, potentially due to equipment such as open milling machines.

LEDVANCE offers damp-proof luminaires which are manufactured from high-quality PMMA plastic in combination with stainless steel components. These are perfect for use in oily environments or uncovered outdoor

applications. Another industry lighting trend is an increasing interest in luminaires with integrated thermal management solutions, which are practical for illuminating high heat environments, such as factories that use furnaces. Luminaires fitted in these hot, sensitive areas must also be equipped with shatter protection film, and LEDVANCE offers LED tubes made of glass to avoid bending in heat.

Be our guest In the hospitality sector, lighting functions both as a design element and a crucial part of the wellbeing of guests and employees.

When used right, illumination contributes to creating a friendly, inviting atmosphere from the first moment a guest enters the building. At the moment, retro lighting designs are very much in fashion. These elegant products combine the historic shapes of lamps and luminaires with modern LED technology. Considering the

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importance of lighting to the creation of a cosy aesthetic, LEDVANCE has recently launched a range of LED spotlights, which evoke a minimalist style and provide great flexibility in lighting design by providing light accents in hotel rooms, restaurants, lobbies and ancillary areas like corridors, elevators and car parks. Furthermore, in the case of hospitality spaces with varied uses, such as hotel conference rooms, smart lighting solutions are ideal. Different light is required for focussed concentration during a meeting, compared to a warm, welcoming light for an exercise class.

Whether for general lighting or for colour effects, all requirements can be fulfilled with a smart light management system, which empowers managers to easily switch between different functions.

Office solutions Lighting office buildings appears at first glance to be a mere matter of course. On closer observation, however, there are a variety of different requirements and scenarios that have to be taken into account to create the ideal work-light balance. Modern office lighting should do more than just illuminate workplaces. It should create an atmosphere in which employees feel comfortable and focussed with ergonomically designed solutions that enhance concentration and reduce eye

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SPECIAL REPORT

strain. LED products achieve all of these aims with high quality illumination and a mix of direct and indirect lighting. The IndiviLED luminaire family from LEDVANCE, for example, is characterised by a special optical system, consisting of a large number of small â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;light squaresâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The fact that each individual LED has its own lens and reflector leads to excellent anti-glare properties of UGR <16 and a perfect distribution of light.

Additionally, there is a growing popularity for smart solutions in offices. When considering the benefits of automated lighting systems to their workplaces, office managers will generally note convenience and cost benefits. However, these systems can have an additional, positive impact on employee wellbeing and productivity.

Automated systems provide managers with the valuable opportunity to adapt workplace lighting to the circadian rhythm, a 24 hour body clock that governs our natural sleep cycle. Humanoriented lighting concepts, such as the LEDVANCE BIOLUX HCL Controller, simulate the characteristics of natural daylight to make workers happier, healthier and more productive, with proven impact in reducing staff sickness.

Be ready As more and more products arrive designed with industry, hospitality and office applications in mind, it will be fascinating to observe the future innovations in lighting for these three sectors. However, until then, wholesalers have plenty of outstanding products at their fingertips to recommend.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

To learn more about LEDVANCE and its range of lighting options for multiple applications, visit: www.rdr.link/wu004

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CIRCUIT PROTECTION

TRIED AND

TESTED

Families and employees are being left vulnerable due to untested electrical components being installed in their homes and workplaces. Here Paul Dawson, Commercial Director at Niglon, explains why the entire electrical industry, including wholesalers, needs to be responsible for product safety.

T

he claim comes from the Commercial Director of an independent supplier worried about the consequences when untested, or poorly tested, products fail.

Paul Dawson from fourth generation family firm Niglon, based in the Midlands, says they are seeing a worrying number of circuit protection products being sold which have not been independently tested by a reputable third party.

With potentially fatal consequences if this equipment fails, it’s not enough for wholesalers to assume everything they buy is of a high standard – and is calling on the entire industry to take responsibility for the safety of end users.

It would be easy for a wholesaler to assume the manufacturer is ultimately responsible for product safety, but the onus is on everyone within the supply chain. Put simply, this is life or death – and everyone involved in the sale or installation of a component has an obligation towards the end user, not just to follow the industry’s rules and regulations, but also from a moral standpoint. The safety of electrical circuits and the components within them isn’t something which should be left to chance, given the potential for harm if a product is faulty.

Certified safety Niglon has invested time and resources into ensuring its circuit protection products are certified, choosing only to partner with businesses that have matching high standards. So, when surge protection devices were introduced into the 18th edition wiring regulations (BS7671), and the team had a choice between sourcing an untested lower cost device or partnering with a European manufacturer who had more than seven decades of experience – the choice was easy.

The company opted for the latter because it knew the products were certified, something especially important when it comes to surge protection devices because of the limited ability installers have to test them once they’re installed in a home or place of business.

Do ask, do tell But it’s not only about firmly believing in third-party independent testing for these important devices, the Niglon team is also campaigning for total transparency around which products have been tested to this standard. To this end, Paul and his colleagues are calling on wholesalers to ask for proof of certification when they source a new product to stock.

Circuit protection devices in our catalogue and online are clearly marked as being accredited by SEMKO, VDE or TUV and naturally, if a customer asks us to produce proof of this certification then we are able to do so immediately. We believe that level of transparency is paramount to keep standards high in the electrical industry; wholesalers should have the utmost confidence in the components that they are selling, and the ability to reassure contractors and end users of their safety.

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CIRCUIT PROTECTION

Protecting lives It’s not something which can, or should, be left to chance given the huge risks to life and property where untested products are installed. There’s no way of knowing when or if these products will fail – and with any circuit protection device, there is a potentially fatal outcome should that occur. We don’t believe doing nothing until something goes wrong is an option – especially when this risk can be eliminated with proper testing. Knowing they could have intervened and stopped harm coming to another human being is not something anyone wants on their conscience, so we are calling on the industry to act now before disaster strikes.

This potential for loss of life is clearly the most important reason for better testing and more transparency, but raising standards so the entire industry is openly declaring certification would have other positive benefits too. Wholesalers able to

SEMKO is one of a range of accredited products

reassure customers of the safety of all of their products are bound to build trust and their reputation in doing so, for example.

Individuals and businesses rely on contractors to install electrical devices in their properties, and they place a great deal of trust in those contractors that those devices are safe. With so many products out there not carrying third-party certification we are sure it’s only a matter of time before there are devastating consequences.

We are calling on the industry to act now: to help us educate end users about why all of the products in their homes and

workplaces should have been thoroughly tested, to ensure asking for proof of certification becomes a routine question when contractors and wholesalers source a product, and to stop harm coming to anyone because of a faulty device.

Protection over price Wholesalers are an integral part of making this change – by making certification the primary reason to buy a product rather than a slightly better price point, they can help safeguard themselves, contractors and consumers against the terrible consequences associated with the ticking time-bomb of untested devices.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

To learn more about Niglon and its range of safety certified products, visit: www.rdr.link/wu005

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CIRCUIT PROTECTION

POWER

PROTECTION

F

lexibility has always been important in the commercial office sector. Occupiersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs change over time and the occupiers themselves can change too, bringing with them new working practices, sectors and hardware that require revised layouts and changes to the electrical fit-out.

The pandemic has escalated the pace of change and highlighted the need to futureproof commercial buildings to enable more agile work environments in the years ahead. Social distancing and flexible working are not just considerations for 2020/21, however; they are trends that will be an enduring influence on office design and electrical fit out.

Paul Allen, Sales Manager at CMD, the specialists in underfloor and under-desk power distribution systems, discusses the advantages of a modular approach to circuit protection at the workstation.

Against this backdrop, the amendment to BS 7671 for the requirements of electrical installations has made it advisory to include dedicated RCD or RCBO protection for each individual workstation, either via the floor box or as part of the under-desk power distribution. This can not only make the fitout more time-consuming for the electrical contractor, but also potentially less flexible for the building owner/manager and occupier. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why modular under-desk power distribution systems like Rotasoc are becoming such a hero solution for office fit-outs and offer significant ease of use benefits for incorporating compliant circuit protection installation into flexible, reconfigurable office layouts.

Increased demand Due to the amendments to 411.3.3 of BS 7671 to the Wiring Regulations calling for

22 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIANS WHOLESALER

socket-outlets up to a rating of 32A to be fitted with RCD to provide additional protection, the required protection from both faults and earth leakage was built into the switchboard, but this presented a risk of outages to all workstations if the supply was tripped at a single desk.

The requirement to install circuit protection specific to each workstation protects against unwanted tripping, which is a benefit to the occupier, but it does mean that any reconfiguration of workstations could be an onerous and time-consuming affair. A modular underdesk power distribution system, combined with a powertrack installation in the raised access floor, provides the ideal solution for a flexible, plug and play installation that can be installed and reconfigured quickly and easily while delivering individual circuit protection at each workstation,

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in compliance with wiring regulations requirements. This can be combined with plug and play RCD units at the floor boxes for areas of the office layout that do not contain workstations, such as break-out areas and tea/coffee points.

The benefits of modular under-desk distribution systems are also being felt in the office retrofit market. Any upgrade or fit-out work within an existing office environment must comply with current regulations, which means that circuit protection for each workstation must be added retrospectively. For office environments that already have a modular Rotasoc system, this is a straight forward process, requiring the plug and play addition of an RCD or RCBO residual current circuit breaker to the Rotasoc unit.

For offices that do not have an existing modular system, adding circuit protection can be a time-consuming business, unless the under-desk distribution is upgraded to a modular system.

The plug and play nature of circuit protection units for â&#x20AC;&#x153;modular Rotasoc workstation power systems means that there is a sizeable opportunity for wholesalers to achieve substantial sales volumes of these units, as both a retrofit solution and for new electrical fit out projects.

â&#x20AC;?

Tailored options Available for standard earth, clean earth and dual circuit installations, the modular circuit protection units supplied by CMD for use with Rotasoc installations provide a choice of RCD and RCBO protection, enabling the installation to be tailored to the specific environment and risk of residual current, overcurrent, fault and earth leakage.

All RCDs supplied by CMD are Type A, which are used for alternating sinusoidal residual current and for residual pulsating direct current up to 6mA, ideal for protecting the circuits that feed office IT equipment. The choice of RCD or RCBO

depends on the specific configuration and of the commercial environment and CMD can advise specifiers on the most appropriate solution for their needs. The plug and play nature of circuit protection units for modular Rotasoc workstation power systems means that there is a sizeable opportunity for wholesalers to achieve substantial sales volumes of these units, as both a retrofit solution and for new electrical fit out projects.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

To learn more about workstation power systems from CMD, visit: www.rdr.link/wu006

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CURRENT TRENDS

As demand for electricity becomes ever greater, so increases the need to store energy as well as produce it. Like all electrical installations, energy storage systems need application specific protection. PEW asked Switchtec’s Technical Director Jeremy Lester to explain the current situation.

E

nergy Storage Systems (ESS) are now a mature technology. ESS is installed at sites to improve energy management control, such as peak management or frequency regulation, or for renewable energy storage for photovoltaic or wind generated energy applications. The importance of such equipment makes interruption of their service unacceptable, so measures must be taken to limit damage due to external influences. One of the risks to be taken into account is possible damage due to transient overvoltages generated by lightning or by switching operations.

The deployment of ESS has demonstrated the limited robustness of these equipments, including batteries systems. Specialists in this technology have ascertained that their low impulse voltage withstand (Uw) may lead to critical system failure.

Surge protector for ESS Surge Protection Device (SPD) technology is widely used in AC power networks to protect equipment connected to them against transient overvoltages. Test standards (IEC61643-11), and selection and installation guides (IEC61643-12, IEC603645-534) have been in existance for many years, they define reliable products as well as their selection and implementation.

However, regarding DC power networks, neither standardisation is available at the time of writing (late 2020). In fact, the standards for surge protection for DC power are ongoing at international level (IEC).

CITEL DDC50S-21Y ●

DC Power SPD Type 2 Short Circuit Withstand Voltage 100kA Isccr ● Discharge current: In 20kA / Imax 50kA ●

However it is expected by the end of 2021 that the following standards will be in place: ● IEC61643-41: Test methods for surge

protection for DC low voltage powerlines. ● IEC61643-42: Selection and installation of surge protection for DC low voltage powerlines.

This forthcoming standard IEC61643-41 will be extrapolated from existing standards of surge protection devices for AC networks (IEC61643-11) and the sizing parameters (In, Uc, Imax, Up…) and test procedures will be similar because they will be grouped in a new document common to the two documents. The IEC 61643 series is moving toward a new philosophy. A new document (IEC61643-01) will gather all the definitions and tests common to the various applications of SPDs (AC power,

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PV power, Dataline, DC power) and the dedicated standards (IEC61643-11, IEC6163-21, IEC61643-31, and coming IEC61643-41) will focus only on the specific tests for the application.

Regarding safety tests that simulate the end of life of the SPD such as thermal runaway or short circuit behavior, the procedures are therefore similar as well as the necessary means to achieve requirements, namely the use of internal disconnectors to withstand the thermal runaway tests, and associated fuses to withstand short-circuit tests.

2020 – The current situation Regarding the obligation of protection against transient overvoltage for ESS equipment, the current standard for electrical installation IEC60364 does not give information, requirement or recommendation on this point.

The reason for this is because IEC60364 addresses only low voltage installations connected in AC power applications (not DC current), and it enforces protection requirements against surge voltages solely at the entrance to the outside network. Which is not the case for the localisation of the DC part of ESS. Transient over-voltages Specialists in ESS equipment have noted a reduced robustness in impulse overvoltage of these equipments – particularly in battery systems – and due to the imperative need for continuity of service they recommend the use of surge

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protectors at their terminals. Surge protection on the AC part is also recommended. For the following reasons and consequences, the critical point is the protection of the battery storage system.

When the maximum DC operating voltage is very high (1000 Vdc and more), in such cases a specific SPD is necessary, it being compatible with these voltages and in conformity with the future IEC61643-41. In cases of potentially extremely high short circuit current (100kA and more), the surge protector must withstand the short-circuit test being associated with a fuse sized accordingly.

To manage the short-circuit test, it is imperative that the surge protector is used with an external fuse. The fuse must be rated high enough to conduct 5kA at 8/20Âľs impulse current without opening, but rated low enough to protect the surge protector during its failure on the short-circuit test. Regarding the breaking capacity, this is the likely short circuit current calculated at the time of installation. Provided by the surge protection manufacturer, these requirements can make fuse rating selection somewhat difficult in the case of very high power DC installations.

Existing upstream fuse It could be considered to use the existing AC power SPD overload protection fuse upstream (Figure 1 fuses in the diagram below) as protection of the SPD. This is only possible if its rating is equal to or less than the value declared by the manufacturer of the SPD. For high power installations, the figure 1 fuses have very high ratings, making this option a non-starter.

ESS surge protector selection In conclusion, the key criteria for the selection of DC SPDs, extrapolated from AC standards is: Type 2 Surge Protector (no proven risk of direct lightning discharge) Uc (max. operating voltage) is greater than Umax of the DC network + 10% In (Nominal discharge current) is greater than 5kA Isccr (admissible short-circuit current) with associated fuse is greater than Icc at the installation point.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

To learn more about Switchtec and its energy storage and protection systems, visit: www.rdr.link/wu007

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NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

THE SOCIAL EXPERIMENT Dave Tyler, Sales Manager (UK South) at Ideal Industries, a leader in electrical accessories, tools and equipment, discusses the value of using social media to understand customers and engage with them effectively.

I

f you look at any customer waiting to order or collect stock, the chances are they have their eyes fixed to their phone. It’s possible they’re sending a text, checking the headlines or catching up on last night’s TV, but it’s more likely their social media feeds are holding their attention.

Instagram, Twitter and Facebook are compelling sources of interest and information that electricians carry round with them and catch up with several times a day; often throughout the evening too. Particularly for the younger electricians, who have entered the profession as digital natives, social media platforms are increasingly the space to look for product information, technical tips and new ideas. As a result, social media platforms provide a golden opportunity to engage with customers and build relationships online.

If it’s ‘Social’ Media, why does it work for work?

Although many electricians use social media platforms for their social life and personal interests, just as they might use their phone for both personal and work calls, there is usually some cross-over between life and work. After all, most of us spend a huge amount of our time at work, so it’s an integral part of who we are and what we’re interested in.

It is clear that those working in the electrical trade are using social media platforms to network with fellow professionals, extend their knowledge and find out about products that could improve the quality of installations, help them save time or reduce their costs.

We know this is happening because the team at Ideal Industries has been using various social media platforms to engage with the electricians and heating engineers

that use our products. It provides a quick and easy tool for explaining the features and benefits of our products and introducing potential users to solutions from within our range that they may not know about.

Not only does social media enable us to engage with the people who use our products in real time, but, because our interaction with existing contacts is visible to their networks, it also allows us to keep increasing the number of people who see our posts. The more we use social media, therefore, the more effective it becomes in building awareness of our brand and generating sales of our products. It also allows us to drive sales enquiries through the wholesale channel, enabling us to support our wholesale customers while ensuring that electricians request Ideal Industries products by name.

Set to receive, not just broadcast It is clear that wholesalers can use Instagram, Twitter and Facebook to communicate with their customers in the same way as the Ideal Industries team. Just like face to face conversations, however, the dialogue online should never be a one-way street.

At Ideal Industries, we know that the time we invest in understanding what electricians are saying – to us and to each other – is just as valuable to our long-term marketing plan and business strategy as what we say to them.

26 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIANS WHOLESALER

Many of the electrical professionals we follow use social media to tap into the hive mind of colleagues within the industry and ask technical questions, share information about jobs they’re working on or talk about products they have been using. By being part of that conversation, we can take advantage of any opportunities to provide advice, suggest a product or signpost customers to information, videos or organisations they might find helpful. This kind of interaction builds trust and ensures the people who use our products know us as experts in what we do.

Perhaps more importantly, paying attention to what others are saying on social media also helps us learn. It has become a tool for understanding the challenges electricians face on site, which is market intelligence that feeds into our new product development, customer service and marketing support for the wholesale channel.

Changing communication for a changing world We all know that the world has changed dramatically this year but, the reality is, it was already changing. Social media is now integral to the way that many electricians find out about products, learn about their benefits and decide who they want to do business with. As part of a wide-ranging sales and marketing strategy, our activities on social media are helping to drive sales through the wholesale channel and, by adopting the same approach, wholesalers can engage with customers and understand their needs to inform their own business development strategy too.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

To learn more about Ideal Industries, visit: www.rdr.link/wu008

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NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES ©AdobeStock_WrightStudio

COMMISSION POSSIBLE

T

he process of commissioning involves thorough testing of the installed system to ensure that it operates correctly in accordance with the recommendations of this standard and with the purchasing specification. At completion of commissioning, it also needs to be confirmed that all relevant documentation has been handed over to the user. The organisation responsible for commissioning the system might, or might not, be the same organisation that designed and/or installed the system, but the responsibility for commissioning needs to be clearly defined prior to the start of the installation work and offering your customer a commissioning service is a great selling point that will make their job that little bit easier.

Verified It is not, in general, the responsibility of the commissioning engineer to verify conformity of the design, or of the installation work, to this part of BS 5839 (i.e. with Section 2 and Section 4 of the standard). In general, the responsibility of the commissioning engineer is to verify that the system operates correctly in the manner designed and that the installation workmanship is generally of an adequate standard.

However, in practice, it might be difficult to

Having recently launched its own fire systems commissioning service, ESP’s Managing Director Neil Baldwin, provides a more detailed look at the area of commissioning, as outlined in the BS5839 standard documentation.

ensure that the system complies in full with all recommendations of Section 2 until the time of commissioning. For example, commissioning might represent the first (and only) opportunity to determine whether the number and distribution of fire alarm sounders is sufficient to enable compliance with ‘clause 16.2’ in respect of sound pressure levels. Similarly, commissioning presents an opportunity to ensure that structural features of the building, of which the designer might have been unaware, do not compromise the effectiveness of the system as it was originally designed.

Accordingly, it is necessary for anyone responsible for commissioning a fire detection and fire alarm system to possess at least a basic knowledge of fire alarm design

28 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIANS WHOLESALER

practices and of the recommendations of Section 2 and Section 4 of the standard. It is also necessary for the commissioning engineer to be provided with the specification for the system. In view of the importance now attached to the avoidance of false alarms, it is also essential that the commissioning engineer is able to verify compliance with, at least, the principles discussed in Section 3 of the standard.

ESP solution Already offering a comprehensive range of fire protection systems for the professional electrical contract market, the launch of ESP’s new commissioning service means that all installed ESP systems operate correctly and are fully compliant with the latest BS 5839 regulations.

This latest development means that ESP now offers a full fire alarms systems package, with access to a free design service, a vast choice of products including the latest two-wire systems, the new commissioning service, plus technical support from a team of qualified and experienced engineers. As a wholesaler, this gives you the opportunity to sell a whole package solution to your customer that complies with the latest regulations, giving the installer peace of mind. Providing this complete package is a great opportunity to

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make you stand out from the crowd too.

There is much more to commissioning a fire protection system than simply turning it on and setting detector addresses. It involves going through a comprehensive step-by-step checklist to ensure full compliance with the correct British Standard and carrying out a range of tests to ensure reliable and trouble-free operation.

ESP’s new commissioning service will ensure that a qualified engineer will confirm that the system has reached the relevant British Standard, and they will issue a certificate on completion of the project prior to system handover.

Dedicated ESP commissioning engineers are located throughout the UK to provide access to this new service to a widereaching audience.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

For further information, contact ESP: 01527 515150 or visit: www.rdr.link/wu009

Company focus: ESP has been developing and supplying fire and security related products to the UK electrical industry via the wholesale channel for more than 20 years. The company has continued to grow its MAGfire Fire Protection category and today offers a range of products and systems that covers conventional, addressable and the latest two-wire fire alarm system range.

ESP’s extensive fire protection product range is divided into three categories – the Magduo two-wire fire alarm system, which is aimed at small to medium contractors, offering them a highly flexible and adaptable system; the MAGfire conventional, or four-wire, fire alarm systems – traditionally used in smaller properties such as shops and restaurants and the MAGfire addressable systems – suitable for large, commercial premises and more complex networked systems.

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NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

With so many different products on the market and limited space available in store, how do wholesalers make a decision on what to stock to maximise their own sales? In such a highly competitive space with wholesalers in direct competition for counter sales and project business how do you make sure you get the order? PEW spoke with Super Rod to find out how to stand out in a crowd.

LISTEN, KEEP INFORMED AND ADD VALUE ● LISTEN to the needs of your

customers and understand the problems they face every day. We believe the most successful products are the ones that are going to solve a problem. Look for products and solutions allowing your customers to work smarter, not harder.

TO THE

MAX

CASE STUDY:

How the Ferret WiFi inspection camera ticked all the boxes mentioned.

LISTEN Being an electrician is a demanding job, not only physically but also mentally as they have to be able to think quickly and provide solutions for problems as well as making sure everything is compliant to the regulations. By offering time saving solutions that will make them their job easier and more efficient they will reward you by staying loyal to you. In this time of crisis this could not be more relevant.

From day one Super Rod has been offering time saving solutions which make electrical work safer and more efficient. One of the latest additions to the Super Rod range, the Ferret WiFi inspection camera is no exception. The wireless camera uses the latest electronic technology to stream high resolution video to a smart device in real time, making it an ideal tool for fast and accurate close up visual inspections and troubleshooting in places which are too confined or hard to reach. The camera has six adjustable bright white LEDs on the front to provide crisp, clear 720p images, even in complete darkness.

● KEEP INFORMED on the latest

legislations, trends and needs of the electrical industry to be one of the first to offer solutions to overcome changes in legislation. ● ADD VALUE by committing to deliver

the highest levels of quality in both products and service. One of the best ways to capture market share in a competitive arena is to offer more value and differentiate your company from its competitors.

30 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIANS WHOLESALER

KEEP INFORMED The latest Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations 2020 (England) came into force on July 1st 2020 for landlords offering new tenancies and will be enforced for existing tenancies on April 1st 2021. The Regulations state that every electrical installation in the residential premises is to be inspected and tested at regular interval (no more than five years) in line with the BS 7671:2018 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations to ensure it is safe. It’s about checking the underlying electrical system – the wiring, the fuse

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board, earth bonding and all the other bits you can’t see that could be a risk.

Limited access to certain areas can make these tests particularly painful and lengthy for electricians. Furthermore, limited access can lead to incomplete inspection and deficiencies may not be discovered as a result. With the Ferret WiFi free app for Android and iOS, users can record in real time high definition photos and videos direct to a smart device, making it a powerful tool for inspection. It also allows users to take photos of what they are viewing at any time while recording video. This means they can capture anything interesting or important and include any images/videos as part of their inspection report or EICR.

Nigel Tinker, from Barwick Electrical Services, describes using the Ferret WiFi on the completion of an EICR: “It was easy and straight forward to set up the ferret and to connect up to my iPhone – I was able to use it within five minutes of opening the box and the picture is very clear. I have only been able to try the ferret out on the completion of an EICR, I was able to look through the spot light opening and check the wiring & connections without pulling the whole fitting out.

“I also had to hook a wire that had come loose, it was very easy to direct the Ferret with the cameras help to easily gain access to the wire and re-connect. The Ferret is very well made.”

ADD VALUE With new Electrical Safety Regulations, competitiveness will be one of the biggest challenges for electrical contractors as some landlords will undoubtedly look for the cheaper option. By offering a versatile solution with unmatched image quality and overall functionality that can help these qualified electricians conduct these tests and inspections in a faster, easier and more accurate way, you can help them stay competitive. Ultimately, this approach ensures your customers walk out with a product that will pay for itself in a few uses and will last them for many years.

In a crowded marketplace, finding the right product to stock in store can be very challenging. Get it right and you can ensure that installers come to you first for all their electrical product needs.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

For more information about the Ferret WiFi, please visit: www.rdr.link/wu010

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EDA INSIGHT An update from the Electrical Distributors’ Association

HARD WIRED Wiring devices and controls are a big part of your world and probably account for a high proportion of your sales, but could you generate more business? It is all about having the confidence to cross-sell and up-sell, and it helps to know as much if not more than your customers.

Professional know-how to drive sales Improving your team’s technical know-how through the EDA’s training could unlock additional revenue for your business.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Have a go at this quiz sampled from these modules. Check your answers at the end – but no peeking. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today.

Q1: What is the most common type of lamp cap for general service lighting in the UK? Q2: What is the lowest IP rating for industrial plugs and socket-outlets?

Q3: What do we call the type of backbox that allows the accessory to be fitted flush to a plasterboard wall?

Q4: What special locations might use blue-coloured socket-outlets?

Q5: What features might a smart socket outlet have?

Q6: What are double-pole switches often used for?

B22 IP44 Plasterboard backbox or dry-lining backbox Medical locations, such as hospitals or health centres Remote control, time control, energy monitoring or metering Control of power to appliances like showers

Training in Wiring Devices and Controls includes: ● Introduction to

wiring devices and controls

ANSWERS

● Switches ● Styles, mounting arrangements and backboxes for

Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4: Q5: Q6:

Wiring Devices and Controls is one of 12 training courses in the EDA’s Product Knowledge Programme: a suite of high-quality distance-learning professional training modules created specifically for EDA businesses. You choose only the training that your business needs, it’s completely flexible.

wall mounted socket-outlets and switches and associated products Plugs and socket-outlets Fixed wiring to free wiring connection devices Modular wiring accessories Other overhead lighting accessories Ancillaries Smart controls

HOW DID YOU DO? Full marks: fantastic, you’re entitled to call yourself Professor for the rest of the day.

3 - 5 out of 6: not bad. Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge?

Less than 3: the EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales.

Double accreditation for your peace of mind The EDA Product Knowledge modules are both CPD and City & Guilds Accredited.

DOWNLOAD THE COURSE DIRECTORY

● ● ● ● ● ●

ELECTRICALDA

There’s plenty of information available at: www.rdr.link/w011 including a downloadable Course Directory, giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules. The EDA team is ready to help. Call: 020 3141 7350 or email: training@eda.org.uk

www.eda.org.uk

D

Electrical Distributors’ Association

@eda_uk

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TRAINING

POWERFUL PARTNERSHIPS Mastering knowledge about the products that you sell is the key to sales success and repeat business, that’s according to Cecilia Routledge, Global Director, Energy & Facilities at CTEK, a leading global brand in the care and maintenance of vehicle batteries.

T

o help support wholesalers specifying the right CTEK solution and their customers install products in a timely and efficient way, CTEK has recently launched its SKILLBASE E-mobility training programme.

A full programme This new, comprehensive and flexible training programme has been developed to educate CTEK’s Electrical Vehicle partners on CTEK EV charging products and associated services. A dedicated SKILLBASE E-mobility training team is set to deliver sales and technical training sessions, as well as an advanced Installer courses to CTEK partners.

Delivered by qualified and experienced trainers, the programme combines classroom-based presentations and practical demos to ensure a complete understanding of how CTEK products and solutions can meet customer need, helping CTEK partners to build their business and increase sales.

Cecilia Routledge, Global Director, Energy & Facilities at CTEK comments: “Mastering knowledge about our products and their applications is the key to success.

Our SKILLBASE E-mobility training programme will help our partners gain

comprehensive CTEK product knowledge and develop essential skills and understanding to maximise sales performance and customer satisfaction. We take a modular approach to planning and delivery of the programme, so we can tailor modules and topics to the needs of partners and their teams.”

A fresh approach Rather than the ‘death by PowerPoint’ approach to training, the SKILLBASE Emobility training team use a whole host of training materials and styles. Sessions combine classroom-based training as well as practical, hands-on demonstrations so that attendees can experience the quality, features and versatility of CTEK’s products.

The SKILLBASE E-mobility launch also marks the introduction of the SKILLBASE Emobility Installer training, launched to ensure that CTEK is working with the best installers, so that customers receive installations that meet the highest standards, every time. The training is completely free of charge. This full-day session, that takes place at a dedicated training centre, blends a perfect mix of technical knowledge and hands-on practical training about installation, testing and fault-finding. Towards the end of the

day, once training is complete, there will be short practical & online assessments.

Feedback Cecilia continues: “We are committed to ensuring that anybody using our products is 100% satisfied. The quality of installation is critical to the operation of our market-leading E-mobility products and solutions, which is why we see installers as key partners in creating that 100% customer satisfaction.”

CTEK also views SKILLBASE as a great opportunity to gather important feedback from people attending the sessions. Cecilia adds: “By offering people attending our SKILLBASE sessions the opportunity to increase knowledge and understanding through training and education, we also get a window into their customers’ thoughts, wants and needs. This information is invaluable to us in terms of future product development. For our SKILLBASE colleagues, training will never be a one-way conversation, we use it to gather as well as deliver information.”

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

For more information about the SKILLBASE E-mobility training programme, please visit: www.rdr.link/wu012

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PRODUCTS & EQUIPMENT

ALL THE RIGHT

COMPONENTS Europa Components has introduced a new range of Consumer Units under the Sentinel brand.

T

o help guide the wholesaler, Europa’s technical team of expert engineers are on hand to help and can assist with anything from product selection advice, to installation queries. Sentinel products have been designed to deliver quality, High Integrity and Main Switch Consumer Units with solutions including:

RCCB with MCBs (including surge protected options) 100A Main Switch (suitable for compact type A RCBOs) 100A Main Switch + Dual 80A Type A RCCB Double Stacked Split Load Options Compact Garage Units (63A Type A RCCB + 6A & 16A MCB)

The Consumer Units come with a useful accessory pack containing circuit labels, grommet strip and metal blanks – everything needed to complete the job.

Split load boards offer a flexible busbar solution providing convenient adaptability across different installation requirements.

The flexible busbar also helps to significantly reduce the number of stock lines required.

For example a Sentinel Consumer Unit with 10 usable ways could be configured as 5 + 5 or 2 + 4 + 4 or 6 + 4 and so on.

Making it easy Sentinel provides useful and convenient features to make installation quick, safe and easy. The enclosure is robust and well finished. The hinged lid comes complete with a fly lead to provide safety of earth continuity, protecting the lid and outer casing. The lid includes handy spring retained screws to prevent them from being lost during installation.

Inside the board there is generous wiring space. Cable entry knockouts are positioned top, bottom and side offering multiple installation options. The enlarged rear entry knockouts make it easier for pulling multiple cables through. Earth & Neutral bars are positioned at the top, clearly labelled. Busbars with integrated covers ensure fingertip protection.

Wholesale help With large stock holdings at the Luton and Manchester warehouses, Europa can facilitate collection orders and next day deliveries (including direct to site) for urgent requirements. The significant stocks lower the burden on wholesalers of having to place large stocking orders.

Generous discounts are available on smaller carton sizes rather than pallet rates, enabling stockists to have the confidence to stock Sentinel while also balancing their cash-flow and stock levels.

Sentinel boxes have an eye catching, aesthetically pleasing design ideal for trade counter point of sale display. Like the product, the packaging has been robustly designed to ensure that the product is protected before final installation.

● 100A Main Switch + Dual 80A Type A

● ● ● ●

Populated options come complete with the MCBs packed in their own separate box inside the packaging. This not only provides the MCBs with added protection but saves installation time as they do not have to be removed from the board prior to mounting.

Sentinel SPD The Sentinel SPD is designed to be isolated on a MCB circuit, reducing the potential impact on the consumer unit and incomer if hit by a surge.

A full range of supportive accessories and devices is available including: ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

B and C Curve 6kA MCBs Compact Type A RCBOs Type A RCCB incomers Busbar SPDs Blanks Labelling kits

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

The team are based in Luton and can offer remote product training sessions on request. Visit: www.rdr.link/wu013 to find out more. Contact directly on the dedicated line: 01582 692 444 or email: technical@europacomponents.com

PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIANS WHOLESALER NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 37

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PRODUCTS & EQUIPMENT

FIRE-DOCS LOGBOOKS The high quality, durable logbooks from Trade Docs comply with the British Standards for fire alarms and emergency lighting and contain recommendations for making record of various activities as prescribed by the British Standards. These standards include: investigations, faults, routine testing, inspection & servicing, along with other useful information such as details of relevant parties such as premises management, maintenance organisations and organisations responsible for design, install and commission.

The logbooks also provide a level of end-user guidance relating to the system installed and its ongoing maintenance. Each logbook is supplied in a branded packaging including a hard cover euro slot for trade counter display. These logbooks are a compliance requirement and add value to the sale to the contractor. www.rdr.link/wu014

MERIDIAN FIRE RATED DOWNLIGHTS WITH QUICK FIX CONNECTORS The Meridian Fire Rated Downlight range is getting a whole new suite of products over the next few months, starting with fittings for GU10 lamps.

The existing range of both IP65 fixed downlights plus IP20 fixed and adjustable fittings are retained, but made more contractor friendly with the addition of new Quick Fix tool-less connectors. In addition, there are new Open Body fittings designed for improved performance and ease of installation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; again via the Quick Fix loop in/loop out terminal block. This range features ultra-thin bezels and is designed for LED lamps only. Available in white, chrome and satin chrome finishes, these ranges, built with all steel bodies, are resistant to 30, 60 and 90 minute tests and approved to BS476 pt21 Standards. www.rdr.link/wu015

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PRODUCTS & EQUIPMENT

CARL KAMMERLING SITE LIGHTS AND HEAD TORCHES CK has extended its torches and lighting range, the new range includes: C.K T9613 LED Head Torch & T9613USB Rechargeable Head Torch available in either a rechargeable or battery operated version, features a 270 Lumen output, has a choice of seven lighting modes and a run time of up to nine hours. Other features include: An 80° tilt ability, a 90m beam distance and a motion sensor that allows for a quick and convenient way to turn the head torch on and off, with just the wave of a hand.

C.K T9735USB 10W Rechargeable LED Site Light is a rechargeable site light offering a 700 Lumen output, two lighting modes and a run time of up to four hours. This premium quality site light can be focused at any angle, thanks to its full 360° tilt mechanism, with the option to mount on a tripod, or a variety of metallic surfaces via a magnetic base. The site light can also act as a power bank for charging mobile phones etc. www.rdr.link/wu016

SNICKERS WORKWEAR GORE WINDSTOPPER JACKETS Sharp, stylish looks and market-leading Gore Windstopper and stretch Cordura fabric technology make this jacket a must for winter on site or as outdoor leisurewear.

This great-looking jacket has a fleece-lined interior for warmth and climate control fabric to keep your body warm or comfortably cool when you most need it. With a water-repellent fabric, it can be worn on its own or combined with Snickers’ mid and base Layer garments.

Fashionable and functional, this jacket has long arm cuffs with thumb grips for warm comfort and a high collar that delivers extra wind protection. It’s also got stretchable side panels for comfort and flexibility with stretch Cordura-reinforced elbows for durability. www.rdr.link/wu017

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PRODUCTS & EQUIPMENT

KNIGHTSBRIDGE ROUNDED EDGE POLISHED CHROME Knightsbridge is launching a comprehensive range of rounded edge products with a polished chrome finish. The portfolio of accessories provides huge flexibility, allowing matching switches, sockets and other ancillaries to provide a consistent look and feel in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and living rooms.

Several products have been further accessorised with black, grey or white inserts to provide subtle design cues.

Switches and sockets in a variety of formats and configurations comprise a large proportion of the line-up but these are complemented by grid and modular faceplates, dimmers, TV, telephone and network outlets, and blanking plates. www.rdr.link/wu018

MAKITA BELTS AND POUCHES The range benefits from AntiSlip Technology, which is used on all friction points and pocket edges, to tightly grip tools, stopping them from sliding around and keeping them securely in place to help prevent accidental falls. This is also ideal for those working in awkward positions where they need both hands free. Due to its rigidity, Anti-Slip Technology also helps to extend the lifespan of the item by allowing it to retain its shape. All belts and pouches are inclusive of 3L Technology, a unique three layer combination of polyesters and foam, to provide additional cushioning and improve user comfort.

For ease of use, Makita’s innovative Strap Belt System allows users to effortlessly connect Makita belts or shoulder straps to pouches, holders, bags and cases for trouble free carrying. The belt loop holders (which are compatible with all Makita work belts) can also be used to hang anything with a carabiner. www.rdr.link/wu020

LINIAN EARTH ROD PRO Linian’s new Earth Rod Pro range has been designed to make earth rod installation faster, safer, and simpler, boring through hard top layers and underground rock to achieve a secure earth rod connection in less than two minutes.

The Earth Rod Pro has two components – a reusable Standard SDS+ driver or max driver and a sacrificial tip BIT. Simply attach the Earth Rod Pro – Driver to one end of a standard 5/8” copper earth rod and attach the Earth Rod Pro-BIT directly to the other end of the earth rod. Using an SDS+/SDS Max Drill, the rod can then be rapidly installed directly into the ground. The carbide tipped BIT will chew through any rock and debris, remaining in the ground after installation. Earth rod installation made rapid. www.rdr.link/wu019

SCHNEIDER EASY UPS SERIES The Easy UPS series is available in a number of new specifications, offering diverse and resilient back-up power for electrical installers and contractors. They include: ● Easy UPS SMVS – single-phase line-interactive UPS from

750 to 3000 VA, featuring pseudo-sinusoidal signalling, LCD display, USB port and optional SNMP card. ● Easy UPS SRVS – single-phase online double

conversion UPS available in tower and rack-mounted versions of 1 to 10 kVA. This range features manual and automatic bypass, LCD display and two year warranty with extended runtime via external batteries. ● Easy UPS 3S – three-phase,

online double conversion UPS, up to 96% efficiency in double conversion mode and 99% efficiency in ECO mode.

Compatible with VRLA or Lithium-ion batteries Easy UPS 3S comes complete with conformal-coated printed circuit boards, replaceable dust filters and overload protection. www.rdr.link/wu021

PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIANS WHOLESALER NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 40

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Giv e a w ays EVE RYO NE LO VES A FR EE BIE , DO N’T THE Y? HE RE ’S SO M E GR EA T YO UR CH AN CE TO GE T YO UR HA ND S ON S. PR IZE S FR OM SO ME OF TH E TOP IND US TRY NA ME 1 x Eltako wireless control blister pack

T

he well-established EnOcean wireless standard is geared to wireless sensors and wireless sensor networks with ultra-low power consumption. It also offers energy harvesting technology to use ‘free’ energy from the surroundings, generated by motion, light or temperature differential.

This principle enables electronic control systems that work independently of an external power supply. With a radio range of 30m indoors, EnOcean networks are ideal for use in new and refurbished homes and buildings The EnOcean protocol offers the ideal solution for installers put off by the perceived complexity of smart control and, because it is an open standard, it gives them freedom to choose devices from many manufacturers. This creates a profitable revenue stream for wholesalers.

The Eltako Universal Dimmer Actuator with Wireless Pushbutton Switch First the wireless pushbutton generates power and wireless telegrams itself when the retractive switch is pressed. So, there is no need for connecting wires or a battery. The signal is transmitted to the dimmer, which is wired to the luminaire. By pressing the rocker up or down the desired brightness can be set or pre-set and light scenes can be recalled. The switch can be screwed onto a suitable flat surface, on glass or on furniture using the enclosed adhesive foil.

It will fit on to a standard back box (no wiring required) so an existing location can be used again if desired.

As well as the dimmer pack a switch or a blind control pack is also available.

HOW TO GET YOUR CUSTOMERS STARTED The largest range of EnOcean devices comes from Eltako and we are offering an example of their blister-packed universal dimmer to three wholesalers, so they can see how the products work and how easy the packaging and support makes them to sell. As installers develop their skills, they will look to installing more varied and sophisticated devices and setting them up through an app. Eltako has 100’s of devices to control lighting, HVAC, and other specialised control functions.

Visit: www.rdr.link/wu022

HOW TO ENTER: In order to be one of three lucky winners of the blister-packed universal dimmer, visit: www.rdr.link/wu023

IBC_PEW_NOVDEC20_Layout 1 24/11/2020 11:34 Page 1

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Carl Kammerling Int ............................................ (page 17)

Manrose ................................................................ (page 41)

CEE Norm UK ...................................................... (page 10)

Metrel UK ............................................................. (page 29)

CEE Norm UK ..................................................... (page 39)

ML Accessories Ltd ............................................ (page 21)

Countrywide/CED ............................................... (page 31)

National Ventilation ........................................... (page 42)

C-Tec ....................................................................... (page 8)

Niglon Ltd ............................................................. (page 13)

Deta Electrical Co Ltd ........................................ (page 15)

Ovia Ltd ................................................................ (page 20)

Digital Direct Seurity ......................................... (page 25)

Power Quality Expert ......................................... (page 41)

Ecostrad Ltd ........................................................ (page 27)

Scolmore ................................................................ (page 4)

Elite Security/ESP .............................................. (page 36)

Scolmore ................................................................ (page 7)

ERA Home Security Ltd ............... (outside back cover)

Switchtec ............................................................. (page 38)

Europa Components ......................................... (page 18)

Timeguard Ltd ....................................................... (page 9)

Forum Lighting .................................. (inside front cover)

Trade-Docs.com Ltd .......................................... (page 33)

Lasnek .................................................................. (page 23)

Unicrimp Ltd ......................................................... (page 15)

Ledvance UK Ltd ................................................ (page 34)

Wiska UK Ltd ....................................................... (page 36)

Linian Supply Co Ltd .......................................... (page 41)

PROFESSIONAL

ELECTRICIANS WHOLESALER In the next issue of Professional Electricians Wholesaler...

■ ELECTRICAL ACCESSORIES

PLUS! Competitions, giveaways, product launches, special reports and much more!

■ FIRE & SAFETY PROFESSIONAL

ELECTRICIANS WHOLESALER THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR ELECTRICAL WHOLESALERS

SEPTEMBER 2020

LIGHTING Keeping it simple with lighting controls

TOOLS Top trends to look out for

EDA INSIGHT The principles of electricity – the monthly quiz from the EDA

Plus: News, business advice, sales support, display solutions and more

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