Professional Electrician & Installer December 2023 by Hamerville Media Group

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TO EE FR DE RA ET TH

PROFESSIONAL

ELECTRICIAN THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR THE ELECTRICAL TRADE

& INSTALLER

DECEMBER 2023

LIGHTING THE WAY WE LEARN ABOUT THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS WITH THE SAXBY LIGHTING OFFERING

TOP PRODUCTS 2023 CROWNING THIS YEAR’S BEST SOLUTIONS AND INNOVATIONS

XMAS GIVEAWAYS A SACK FULL OF PRIZES TO BE WON

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: CPD ZONE l INDUSTRY NEWS l COMMENT l NEW PRODUCTS l AND MORE …

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Total Average Net Distribution: 81,413 Certification period: 1 January 2022 - 31 December 2022

December 2023 Volume 39 No. 11

Regulars 7

VIEWPOINT

Attracting new staﬀ: why you need to treat your employees as assets

11 NEWS 22 MADE 2 MEASURE 25 THE TRAINING GROUND 25 CHAUVIN ARNOUX’S GUIDE TO POWER QUALITY 81 CAUGHT ON CAMERA COVER STORY

18 Learning more about the latest developments with Saxby Lighting

Special Report

Top Products 2023

20 Why it’s vital that electrical businesses make their staff feel valued

51 We crown this year’s award-winning products, tools and solutions that have made a difference to the lives of electricians

The CPD Zone 34 The team at NAPIT ‘codebreak’ more of the latest reader submissions

Products & Business Solutions

70 Which products have been specified, and where?

57 How do evacuation alert systems work?

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

37 Key considerations when installing RCDs

60 Are lumens the definitive gauge for measuring light output?

41 What is lighting interoperability and why is it important?

62 Why the Rolec offering to EV installers extends much further than simply products

42 Dr Zzeus, Tom Brookes, answers another reader question related to fire safety 44 Earthing and Bonding: what are the differences? 46 Addressing some of the common queries around EV charge point installations 48 A look into the safety considerations installers should be aware of when dealing with Li-ion battery energy storage systems (BESSs)

64 Dispelling some of the common misconceptions behind year-round solar power and lighting

Christmas Prize Draws 27 WIN! Your chance to fill up your sack with some amazing prizes this Christmas

66 Can the adoption of smart heating controls lead to significant energy saving measures? 68 Delving deeper into PAT technology’s evolution and its use for general safety management applications

The beneﬁts of smart heating controls

PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN December 2023 3

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@proelectrician

professionalelectrician

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 Printed by: PCP TELFORD Published by: HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF Tel: 01923 237799 Fax: 01923 246901 Email: pe@hamerville.co.uk PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN is the business journal for the electrical contracting industry. It is available to the trade at leading electrical wholesalers throughout the UK. © 2023 Subscriptions to PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN are available. Please contact us for rates.

Image References (Adobe Stock): Pg 11 EV Charging © Bond_JP Pg 16 Winners © PohKim Pg 20 Golden assets © Olivier Le Moal Pg 33 CPD sign © TreenaBeena Pg 48 Battery storage © HN Works

pe@hamerville.co.uk

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

Editor’s Viewpoint

Christmas presence is the only gift some need When we consider the roller-coaster of the 12 months that have just passed, is it any wonder that mental health experts are clamouring to remind us all of the help and support that is available at this time of year? As we enter the end of another year that, at best, could be described as ‘turbulent’ it's fair to say that there is a lot of concern in the air for what the future might hold. Nonetheless the Christmas period provides many of us with the chance to be around those we cherish and love the most and to at least put any worries that lie ahead to the back of our minds for a few days at least. It should also be remembered that there are many individuals out there who might not be so lucky. For a growing number of those employed in construction this time of year is often shrouded in darkness and bleak thoughts from which there appears no respite or escape. Money worries, family issues, feelings of isolation and loneliness are just some of the issues that can all be heightened. Tragically, around 4,500 people take their own lives in England, and suicide is now firmly established as the leading cause of death for men under the age of 42. Right now, one in six workers in the UK is suffering from the effects of debilitating depression, anxiety or stress, but such is the stigma attached to this illness, that rather than actively seek help, some are choosing to take their own lives. Within our own sector, the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) has done a tremendous job at raising awareness and offering support, with its efforts recently expaning to the apprentice channel, while many selfless electrical professionals continue to fund-raise

“For a growing number of those employed in construction, this time of year is often shrouded in darkness and bleak thoughts from which there appears no respite or escape.” and offer a supportive ear to those who most need it. Clearly it's been another difficult year for everyone, but this period has also helped many to reflect upon the things in their lives that are most valuable – namely family, friends and loved ones. For those that aren't fortunate enough to have such pillars of stability available to them in what is likely to be an extremely testing time, please keep an eye out for them and make sure they seek help if you suspect they're suffering. Even giving someone the gift of your time for a couple of hours, or one afternoon/evening, could make all the difference to their wellbeing over the next few weeks. We’re looking to provide a bit of Christmas cheer in this month’s issue as we’ve got an absolute sack full of prizes to be won in our Xmas Giveaways section (starts on page 27, plus we take the time to crown the annual winners of PE's Top Product Awards (starts on page 51). Enjoy the issue, have a decent Christmas and New Year and we’ll see you all again in 2024!

Richard B owler PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN December 2023 7

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news @proelectrician

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

professionalelectrician

pe@hamerville.co.uk

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

New regulations to speed up EV charging The introduction of new regulations will ensure that prices across chargepoints are transparent and easy to compare and that a large proportion of new public chargepoints have contactless payment options. Providers will also be required to open up their data, so drivers can easily find an available chargepoint that meets their needs. It will open up data for Apps, online maps and in-vehicle software, making it easier for drivers to locate chargepoints, check their charging speeds and determine whether they are working and available for use. These measures come as the country reaches record levels of public charging infrastructure, with numbers growing 42% year on year. Technology and Decarbonisation Minister, Jesse Norman, said: “Over time, these new regulations will improve EV charging for millions of drivers, helping them find the chargepoints they want, providing price transparency so that they can compare the cost of different charging options, and updating payment methods. “They will make the switch to electric easier than ever for drivers, support the economy and help the UK reach its 2035 goals.”

Once the regulations come into force, drivers will also be able to contact free 24/7 helplines for any issues accessing charging on public roads. Chargepoint operators will also have to open up chargepoint data, making it easier to ﬁnd available chargers. James Court, CEO, Electric Vehicle Association England, said: “Better reliability, clearer pricing, easier payments, plus the potentially game-changing opportunities of open data are all a major step forward for EV drivers and should make the UK one of the best places to charge in the world. “As the rollout of charging infrastructure gathers momentum, these regulations will ensure quality and help put consumers’ needs at the heart of this transition.” The regulations follow the government’s recent announcement of a range of measures to speed up the installation of chargepoints through the

Plan for Drivers. This includes reviewing the grid connections process for installation and extending chargepoint grants for schools. ECA works closely with its Members, industry partners and government to help Britain transition to Net Zero Carbon, producing regular guidance notes, technical bulletins, and industry updates to keep Members at the forefront of the Net Zero transition. GET MORE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT FROM THE ECA AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX001

White paper launch aims to better understanding of cable specification How to address serious failures of vital building safety systems through enhanced understanding of cable specification, is at the heart of a new white paper from Wrexham Mineral Cables (WMC). Free to download from the company’s website, the white paper – Expecting the unexpected: specifying safety-critical circuit cables for fire survival – was written in response to a growing frustration at the lack of progress made on building safety as a result of the lessons learned from the Grenfell Tower ﬁre. The paper looks at the key role played by ﬁre survival circuit cables in improving building safety, and therefore saving lives. It sets out the current testing

standards for fire performance cables and highlights how cables – often a hidden part of a buildings system – have a direct impact on building safety. It also explains why mineral-insulated copper clad (MICC) cables are proven to perform to higher safety standards in 'real fire’ scenarios. The paper addresses: l The need for better understanding of how fire performance cables work and their role in building fire safety, l Fire performance cable testing, and issues with that testing,

l Why cables classified as fire-resistant might not perform in true fire scenarios. DOWNLOAD A COPY OF THE WHITE PAPER AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX002

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news @proelectrician

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

professionalelectrician

pe@hamerville.co.uk

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

Family firm set to light up the town this Christmas A family-run business which sparked to life in Halesowen has been chosen as the oﬃcial installers of the town’s Christmas lights for the seventh year running. Starkey Electrical has once again been entrusted to manage and complete the light installation by the Halesowen Business Improvement District (BID). Lisa Starkey, Director of Starkey Electrical, said: “We’re delighted to have been chosen as the oﬃcial installer of the Halesowen Christmas lights once again. The town holds a lot of history for us and

we feel honoured to be able to give back to the community there.” The team has been tasked with completing health and safety documentation for the BID, including PAT testing all of the lighting before it is installed. The Christmas lights will then be installed throughout the town centre, as per the layout requested by the BID.

The team at Starkey Electrical will also be at the switch-on event to assist with the countdown, plus will be on-call throughout the festive period in case of any issues that might arise. The team will also be responsible for the testing and inspection of the lights prior to the big event, as well as removal and storing of them afterwards.

Van owners urged to take control this winter

Seal of approval for Scolmore CPD

ARMD has warned the industry to be on alert for tool theft increases with the darker evenings now upon us. In fact, looking at the insurance claims made by the trade, the winter months are the busiest months for insurance claims by tradespeople who have fallen victim to tool theft. “Winter provides the veil of darkness thieves use to break into vans. The ARMD tool insurance and smart van alarm are a great ﬁrst line of defence, but there are other things you can do to make it tough for the bad guys. Don’t leave your van with the engine running when de-icing it, remember to lock your van and make sure you have some visible deterrent-like stickers to show the thieves the van is alarmed,” says Stephen Holland, co-Founder of ARMD. “It is really important hard-working tradespeople take control now and get their kit insured and their vans protected against these horrible thefts. When your livelihood is at stake, in just a few clicks you can have the peace of mind that should the worst happen, you’ll be back on the tools in days or even hours, rather than weeks.” With ARMD, you can quickly insure and protect your business. You can you register your tool inventory for free with the ARMD App and the ARMD Guard Smart Van Alarm and Tracker is engineered to safeguard your tools and equipment.

Scolmore Group has been awarded a certification of CPD course provision by CIBSE (Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers), meaning the company is now a CIBSE CPD approved training provider. Scolmore Group now features on CIBSE’s CPD Directory and the first courses to be made available cover a range of topics within circuit protection. These will include AFDDs and RCDs as well as content covering protected escape routes. Further courses will be added in the coming months. Candidates can access the course content either by attending in person or via digital platforms; the aim is to make the courses as easy and flexible to access as possible. To find out more about Scolmore Group’s CIBSE CPD approved presentations contact your local specification manager or go to the CPD Directory Listing on the CIBSE website.

GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE ARMD GUARD SMART VAN ALARM AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX003

12 December 2023 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

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news

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

JTL helps develop apprentice mental health awareness

Sparks in demand as vacancies rise

JTL has supported Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) to develop its new online learning platform, Mental Health for All; Training for mental health well-being. Recognising the impact that mental health concerns can have on those working in the electrical industry, EIC has launched a free online learning platform offering a wide variety of mental health training courses and live interactive webinars. All courses are designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively navigate mental health challenges, both personally and professionally. During the building of the platform, JTL has supported EIC with scripting some of the courses and resources and contributed towards the development costs. Staff and apprentices from JTL were also involved in the national pilot phase to provide invaluable feedback that has helped shape the platform. The new platform is accessible online, allowing convenient mobile access to resources that provide essential skills for managing stress and offer help to those in need.

Armorduct joins the EDA Armorduct, a manufacturer of standard and bespoke cable management systems, has joined the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) as an affiliate manufacturer. Alfie Rowe, Managing Director at Amorduct, said: “We pride ourselves on offering the wholesaler the best possible service by working closely with them to meet a contractor’s needs. Joining the EDA and EDATA is an important step for us in that drive by making as much information as easily available as possible. “Having the highest quality product information readily at hand is a vital part of that service, but we aim to go further than other manufacturers by offering a more flexible alternative in addition to our standard product offer. We will work as an extension of the wholesaler so that we can help them solve problems for the contractor, whether that’s to save time on-site or to meet a particularly tricky design brief for cable management.”

14 December 2023 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

Electricians are the second most in demand professionals within the UK construction industry, according to new job data. There are over 135,000 active vacancies across the top tradespeople roles, with 8,293 electrician jobs alone currently being advertised. metals4U compiled the data by analysing job vacancies on Indeed, Total Jobs and LinkedIn to find the most in-demand trade roles in the country. London had the most electrician vacancies with 860, followed by Manchester (812) and Leicester (622). The top ten cities with the most vacancies are: 1. London: 860 vacancies 2. Manchester: 812 vacancies 3. Leicester: 622 vacancies 4. Birmingham: 601 vacancies 5. Sheffield: 555 vacancies 6. Leeds: 543 vacancies 7. Liverpool: 477 vacancies 8. Bristol: 440 vacancies 9. Glasgow: 374 vacancies 10. Edinburgh: 272 vacancies As demand soars, it is predicted that 100,000 new electricians will be needed in the UK by 2032, with this research indicating that there is already a considerable skills gap in the country’s trade workforce. Paul McFadyen, Chairman of metals4U, commented: “Construction, building, and metal materials have been in heavy demand in the UK over the last few years, with increased development in residential and commercial builds. “The growing demand for electricians and other tradespeople, combined with a shortage of the right qualifications is causing major issues. A recent FMB State of Trade survey revealed that 60% of jobs are stalled due to labour shortages, and this is something expected to continue in the construction industry as more houses need to be built.”

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@proelectrician

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pe@hamerville.co.uk

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

Aico to celebrate exceptional apprentices To honour the brightest talents within the electrical industry, Aico has launched the Apprentice of the Year Award for 2024. Explaining more, Aico’s National Sales Manager, Tony Boyle, said: “Our Apprentice of the Year award aims to recognise outstanding apprentices who not only have excellent technical skills but are role models for others in our industry. The electrical professionals of tomorrow are so important to our industry, and we aim to highlight and celebrate their continued success.” From the entries, 12 selected nominees will attend the JTL Training Centre Day in Birmingham to take part in the final assessment. All 12 apprentices reaching this stage will receive a fully loaded state-of-the-art toolkit. Following the assessment centre day, the top six

apprentices selected will receive an exclusive invitation to the Aico in The Community Awards, set to take place on April 18th 2024. The winner will be announced at the event and will also receive a top of the range multi-function tester to add to their toolkit (worth up to £1,200). The award is now open for entries, with a closing date of January 1st 2024. All apprentices are required to submit their application forms to: marketing@aico.co.uk

DOWNLOAD THE APPLICATION ENTRY FORM AND FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE AWARD AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX004

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news @proelectrician

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

professionalelectrician

pe@hamerville.co.uk

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

Wallbox and Octopus partnership is intelligent decision Wallbox has announced a strategic partnership with Octopus Energy Group, the energy and technology group delivering a customer-focused and affordable clean energy system across the globe. The collaboration and recent integration will enable all Wallbox customers to join the ‘Intelligent Octopus Go’ tariff by integrating through their Pulsar Max, the smart home charger designed to unlock time and money for EV drivers. ‘Intelligent Octopus Go’ is a smart EV charging tariff that unlocks significant savings for EV drivers – cars are charged when the grid is cheapest, and usually greenest. It offers an innovative solution for combating climate change and catering to eco-conscious energy consumers. Switching to this system can save EV drivers more than £600 annually with smart charging rates and home energy efficiency. The ‘Intelligent Octopus Go’ App allows users to schedule the time and amount of charge they need their car back with. Octopus’s tech platform, Kraken, then automates charging during peak renewable energy times, preventing millions of tons of CO2 emissions. It optimises the grid, enhancing energy system reliability and stability, while bringing down energy costs for everyone. Wallbox and Octopus will cooperate in reducing charging costs. ‘Intelligent Octopus Go’ manages the UK's largest virtual power plant, surpassing the grid's biggest battery, now at 500MW through electric vehicles.

The winners take it all PE is delighted to announce the winners of some of the magazine’s recent prize draws and giveaways. l Knightsbridge Silver Bar Competition – Robert Shaughnessy l Unicrimp Virgin Experience Voucher – Melvyn Knight l Rolec QUBEV Smart Charger – Richard West l Draper 4-in-1 Combination Cutters – George Robertson, Paul Cartridge, Laurence Wood, Mark Edwards, Katie O’Hara l Ring MAGﬂex Inspection Lamp – Phil Mortimer Fancy getting your hands on some great goodies? You’ve got more chances to win fabulous prizes with this issue’s Christmas Giveaways bonanza, which starts on page 27. 16 December 2023 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

Power up your tools with Makita promotion Makita has launched a new redemption promotion for its XGT Power Source Kit range. Running until December 31st, end users can claim a free 40VMax XGT 2.5Ah battery when they purchase a selected XGT Power Source Kit. Makita Power Source Kits are an ideal way for end users to start or expand a cordless system of XGT 40VMax tools. There are six qualifying Power Source Kits available in total as part of Makita’s latest promotion: four kits with two batteries (2.5Ah, 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, and 8.0Ah options) and fast charger, and two kits with four batteries (5.0Ah and 8.0Ah options) and a twin-port fast charger. All are supplied in a robust Makpac carry case. Purchasing a Makita Power Source Kit enables you to select your preferred battery options, and then select your XGT tools from a wide range of body only models as a cost-eﬀective option. The Power Source Kit and body only products enables customers to build their own kit of XGT products speciﬁc to their job requirements. With a high number of XGT models also available in Makpac cases, you can simply connect the Makpac tool cases to your Power Source Kits for improved storage and safe transport. Makita’s latest promotion allows end users to claim a free BL4025 2.5Ah XGT Battery (retail value of over £100) with qualifying XGT Power Source Kits. This Li-ion battery is a powerful general use battery with an LED charge level indicator for use with Makita’s range of 40VMax and 80VMax XGT tools. The heavy-duty battery can be charged in just 28 minutes with a rapid charger, for optimum performance and productivity on-site. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE MAKITA PROMOTION AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX005

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COVER STORY

SAXBY LIGHTING: ILLUMINATING THE FUTURE The team at Saxby Lighting tell us more about why the brand has become renowned for lighting excellence over the last 30 years, and beyond. or over three decades, Saxby Lighting has been at the forefront of the lighting industry, supporting electrical professionals and wholesalers with innovative and functional products. With a commitment to quality, performance, and customer satisfaction, Saxby Lighting has become a trusted name in the business. Over that time there have been many advances in lighting, so let’s take a look at some of our latest oﬀerings:

Lighting the way with innovation Since our inception, Saxby Lighting has consistently pushed the boundaries of lighting technology. Our dedicated team of experts combine their passion for

innovation with extensive industry knowledge, resulting in cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. We have continuously invested in research and development,

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allowing us to stay ahead of the curve and oﬀer a wide range of lighting solutions that are both energy-eﬃcient and aesthetically pleasing.

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retail store, or designing a residential interior, our expanded product range oﬀers a diverse selection of options to cater to your speciﬁc needs. With our commitment to quality craftsmanship and advanced technology, you can trust that every Saxby Lighting product delivers outstanding performance and durability.

Introducing Edition 15: the new catalogue We are thrilled to announce the release of our latest catalogue, Edition 15. This comprehensive catalogue showcases our extensive product range, featuring over 100 new lines that are designed to enhance and elevate any space. From stylish indoor fixtures to robust outdoor luminaires, our catalogue offers a vast array of options to suit various applications and design preferences. Expanding possibilities with over 100 new lines At Saxby Lighting, we understand that every space has its unique lighting requirements. That's why we have introduced over 100 new lines, allowing our customers to find the perfect lighting solutions for any project. Whether you are upgrading an office space, renovating a

Saxby Hero: lighting with a purpose As part of our commitment to making a positive impact, we are proud to introduce Saxby Hero – a special charity product that combines exceptional design with a noble cause. With Saxby Hero, a portion of the proceeds from every purchase goes towards supporting charitable organisations dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others. This initiative reflects our belief in using our success to give back to the community and create a brighter future for all. During the year of its launch over £10,000 was donated to NHS Charities Together, while this year will see the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) become the recipients of the donation. Experience the Saxby Lighting difference With our rich heritage and dedication to excellence, Saxby Lighting continues to be the

go-to choice for installers and wholesalers who seek top-quality lighting solutions. Our extensive product range, showcased in Edition 15 of our catalogue, offers a diverse selection of options to meet the unique needs of every project. Whether you're looking for innovative indoor fixtures, durable outdoor luminaires, or the opportunity to make a difference through Saxby Hero, we invite you to explore our offerings and experience the Saxby Lighting difference. Stars of the showroom Saxby’s brand new showroom provides a perfect space to showcase our range and service abilities. The space has also become a favourite for buying group or chain meetings; so if you would like to utilise the space in the heart of Leeds please speak to you ASM about how we can support you. Alternatively, we can bring Saxby to you, via our regional breakfast mornings and trade days all over the UK. You can see the latest event information on Instagram Stories as well as winning branded goods by tagging us in your Saxby installs! Visit our website or contact our dedicated sales team today to find out more about our products or request a copy of our latest catalogue. Together, let's illuminate the future with Saxby Lighting. BROWSE THE FULL SAXBY LIGHTING RANGE ONLINE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX006 BROWSE THE SAXBY EDITION 15 CATALOGUE ONLINE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX007

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SPECIAL REPORT

“TREAT YOUR STAFF AS ASSETS” In this interview Steve Bratt, ECA CEO, shares his thoughts on the electrical sector's greatest employment challenge: the search for – and retention of – skilled workers. What is the most significant employment challenge currently in the sector? The employment challenge most raised by the ECA Members I speak to is the diﬃculty ﬁnding and retaining good quality people to work in their business. While we haven’t brought new people into the industry in the numbers we’ve needed to, there are other contributory factors. For example, we’ve had good people leaving the industry as they’ve aged, while some have not just left the sector, they’ve left the country. Others have a ‘post-COVID mindset’ which can mean they’re not always available for work in the way that’s required by engineering

contractors. For these and other reasons, we’ve seen an overall reduction in the available workforce. All this creates a challenge for businesses who must ask themselves: how do we ﬁnd good people and then hold onto them? What do you think businesses can do to retain skilled people that doesn’t involve just paying them extra per hour? One of the problems that employers face is that they’re losing people to agencies. Usually, these workers are relatively young, and their primary focus is the hourly rate. So, when an agency says we

20 December 2023 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

have work on this project, the headline is usually “Come over and get more money”. But that isn’t the main attraction for everybody, and many employees are shrewd enough to think about benefits like pensions and healthcare. As a business, once you’ve got a really effective member of the workforce, you naturally look for staff retention. Key to retention is showing employees that you both value and care about them by treating them as an asset, not a commodity. It’s about a business demonstrating that it wants to safeguard its employees’ wellbeing and help them to be productive and happy. With skills shortages in mind, I think that’s where contractors should be

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focusing their attention. Businesses should provide infrastructure where employees can get the support to help themselves if they have any challenges. Through oﬀering Private Medical Insurance (PMI), for example, businesses can provide infrastructure that allows their employees to get that help quickly. Eﬀectively, the employer is saying “We’re here, and we want you to do a good job,

“... employers can gain an advantage by being a caring, supportive and professional employer with the underpinning benefits to further demonstrate that.”

so we’re going to provide the support you need to do a good job, and here it is.” And how about attracting new skilled employees? Pay can’t be ignored and employers must be conscious of that, however if you’re demonstrating that you’re a good employer and looking after your current people, you’re more naturally going to be an attractive employer as the message goes around the industry. So, whether it’s about retaining employees or attracting new people, employers can gain an advantage by being a caring, supportive and professional employer with the underpinning beneﬁts to further demonstrate that.

What other challenges does the sector face where employers could benefit from keeping employees engaged? Productivity is a major challenge.

Contracts are often very demanding and with the penalties they contain, there’s little room for error. Suppose then that you’ve got people oﬀ work or people on those sites not operating at full capacity. In that case, productivity is going to suﬀer.

How can ECIS help? ECIS, a chartered insurance intermediary owned by the ECA, can provide comprehensive employee beneﬁts packages, including Private Medical Insurance, that safeguard employee wellbeing and demonstrate practical commitment to employees. If you don’t have a PMI scheme or you have a PMI renewal approaching, ECIS can help you ﬁnd the right option for you. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE PACKAGES AND BENEFITS ON OFFER FROM ECIS BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX008

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

You ask: I WANT TO MOVE FROM HANDWRITTEN ELECTRICAL CERTIFICATES TO COMPLETING THEM DIGITALLY OR ONLINE. I HAVE SEVERAL EMPLOYEES WHO NEED TO COMPLETE THE CERTIFICATES, SO I AM LOOKING FOR SOMETHING THAT WE CAN ALL USE. CAN YOU HELP?

FIND OUT MORE AND SIGN UP FOR A FREE CERTSUITE TRIAL AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX009

22 December 2023 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

Megger says: There’s a number of digital certification solutions currently available, saving you time when completing your certificates and enabling you to complete jobs faster. Megger has CertSuite. Not all programs are the same, so be sure to look and see which suits your needs. CertSuite is a Cloud-based solution that works on all platforms: Android, iOS, smartphones and tablets, PCs and Macs, ensuring a wide range of useable assets, no matter what you use. It is quick, easy, reliable and flexible, with unlimited certificate generation and cloud storage for your certification records. A key advantage is that it can be used online or offline, allowing certificate completion – even when no internet connection is available – automatically synchronising your work as soon as you’re back online. In addition, if working on a large job, multiple users can complete a certificate simultaneously (licence required per user). It can also be used with Megger’s new MFT-X1 multifunction tester, downloading results directly into the certificate as you complete the tests on-site. CertSuite offers unlimited distribution boards and circuit designs as well as the import of your company and accreditation logos. It will even save your digital signatures. A large range of certificates are available, including Minor Works, EICR, EIC, electric vehicle, solar/PV, fire alarms and emergency lighting. CertSuite is a subscription-only software, with both annual and monthly payment options. It even comes with a 30-day free trial period before you purchase, to see if it works for you without any commitment.

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THE TRAINING GROUND

UNDERSTANDING PHAS PHASEE & LOAD LOAD BALANC BALANCEE CCHAUVIN HAUVIN AARNOUX RNOUX - you yourr guide ttoo navigating navigating the

Q. I’m told my new apprentice is now on a different version of the electrical apprenticeship – what does this mean and will they still do the AM2? To bring it fully up-to-date with current employer needs, technology and industry practice, the Installation & Electrician apprenticeship was recently reviewed and an updated apprenticeship standard was launched in September. For apprentices enrolled on or after this date, they’ll be learning foundation skills and knowledge they can apply to new technologies such as electric vehicle charging, heating controls and solar PV panels, once they’re qualified. The apprenticeship focuses clearly on commercial installation and maintenance now we have the new, separate, Domestic Electrician apprenticeship. The End Point Assessment that is taken by apprentices before they qualify – in our industry’s case, the ‘AM2S’ – must reflect what is being taught throughout the apprenticeship training programme. Because the content of the apprenticeship standard has now changed, there needs to be a different version of AM2S so we’re assessing against everything covered in the new standard. The second version of the AM2S will incorporate new areas within the practical assessment, and will also now include a scenario-based discussion where candidates will be assessed against the behaviours that have been mapped out in the apprenticeship. The detail of everything that will be assessed is in the assessment plan on the IfATE website, and NET will be producing updated support materials for candidates. The revised version will be taken by apprentices who have enrolled from September. Anyone enrolled on an apprenticeship prior to September will still sit the original AM2S that is currently in operation. The NET website will have full information on both versions to ensure candidates are accessing the correct preparation material when the time comes. GET MORE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT FROM NET BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX010

stem is said to to be be balanced balanced when the phase phase three-phase system A thr ee-phase ppower ower sy tude and are are separated separated by by a phase phase angle amplitude vvoltages oltages have have the same ampli degrees. ooff 1120 20 de grees. LLoad oad balance balance is achieved achieved when the phase phase currents currents have have the same amplitude ampli tud and are separated by a phase angle of 120 degrees..

Voltage imbalance wheree the vvoltage Voltage imb alance describes describes the situation situation wher o tage ol magnitudes, or the phase phase angle differences differences between between them, or bboth, oth, magnitudes, are not not equal. equal. are Voltage imbalances imbalances are are caused caused by by large large differences differences between between the 3 Voltage tribution of of phase aree ca caused distribution ph ase ccurrents, urrents, which in tturn urn ar used bbyy the ppoor oor dis llarge arge single single phase phase loads. loads a

Having phase s vvoltages important industrial trial H aving bbalanced alanced ph ase oltages is imp or tant ffor or indus installations phase motors. ins tallations ccontaining ontaining 3 ph ase mo tors. UUnbalanced nbalanced vvoltages oltages can cause phase imbalance ercentage ca use a ph ase ccurrent urrent imb alance uupp ttoo 1100 ttimes imes the ppercentage imbalance. vvoltage oltage imb alance. separate circuits loads close Use sep arate cir cuits ffor or llarge arge ssingle-phase ingle-phase lo ads cconnected onnected aass clo se incoming drop ttoo the inc oming ssupply upply aass ppossible ossible ttoo rreduce educe the vvoltage oltage dr op on wiring w iring uutilised tilised bbyy oother ther eequipment. quipment. EEnsure nsure that that all single-phase single-phase loads, loads, large large and small, small, are are bbalanced alanced evenly across evenly acr oss all three three phases. phases. Let us know about any topics you want covered at: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX011 Visit our media channel for more information: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX012 www www.chauvin-arnoux.co.uk .chauvin-arnoux .co.uk 001924 1924 4460494 60494 inf info@chauvin-arnoux.co.uk o@chauvin-arnoux .co.uk

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SEVADIS

MAXICHARGER AC 7.4KW EV CHARGER

Award-winning for its sophisticated aesthetics and optimal functionality, the MaxiCharger provides installers with an easy-to-install experience, whilst also providing end customers with a seamless EV charging journey. The MaxiCharger AC 7.4kW is equipped with built-in PME fault detection, eliminating the requirement for an earth rod/electrode, thus making installation quicker and, most importantly, safer for both the installer and the customer. Complete with static load management and dynamic load balancing capabilities, the unit oﬀers a solution that meets the requirements of all electrical supply requirements, whether that be for a domestic or commercial application. Operating the

MaxiCharger is a breeze – it can be controlled via smartphone or with an RFID card/fob. Plus, it boasts an impressive 99% reliability rate, ensuring smooth and dependable charging every time.

to win

ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX013

KNIPEX

LINIAN

SPECIAL EDITION COBRA XMAS SET

CHRISTMAS PRODUCT BUNDLES

KNIPEX is giving 10 lucky readers the chance to win an 87 00 100 XMAS Cobra XS tucked inside a festive ornament. White stars on a red background adorn the festive decorative packaging, and hidden inside is a mini version of the popular water pump pliers, measuring just 100 mm! The Limited Edition set contains the popular 100 mm (4”) KNIPEX Cobra XS Water Pump Pliers (87 00 100), a tool that features 11 adjustment positions, 24 mm (1”) jaw capacity and one-handed quick adjustment. Its slim profile means it is perfect for use in tight spaces, while a pinch guard prevents operators’ fingers being injured. The high-quality, metal decorative bauble has a diameter of 120 mm and is delivered in an equally festive gift box. The Cobra XS was launched in 2020 and has proved a huge success with professional tradespeople. With a gripping capacity of 24 mm, this ‘everyday carry’ tool really does fit into the palm of your hand. Like all products in the KNIPEX Cobra family, it is self-locking to pipes and nuts: this results in no slipping from the workpiece and all work is considerably less strenuous. Look out for the KNIPEX advent calendar promotion this festive season too!

Make more time for mince pies and a cuppa this Christmas, with a bundle of LINIAN presents. Creators of the world’s first single-component, BS7671 18th Edition compliant fire-rated cable fixing, LINIAN has prepared some great gifts for you this month. LINIAN clips are a safe and versatile alternative to cleats, p-clips, conduit saddles and other traditional cable fixings. There’s no need for plugs, screws, washers, or to win nails – try them out and see for yourself! Win one of the three LINIAN bundles on offer and you can enjoy safer, simpler, and easier cable installations using:

l l l l

ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX014

10 to win

FireClip for round cables and PVC trunking SuperClip for SWA cables and conduits T&E clips for twin, cpc cables PVC trunking Coaxial to suit RG59 coaxial ‘shotgun’ cabling

You’ll also be able to keep comfortable in a one-of- a-kind cosy Christmas T-shirt, designed by the LINIAN team. This gift set is perfect to brighten up any electrician's Christmas! ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX015

PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN December 2023 27

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OLYMPIC FIXINGS

HEXAGON SHANK SETS

Elevate your electrical work this holiday season with Olympic Fixings. Crafted with precision and engineered for excellence, this 6-piece tool roll, made from heavy-duty nylon, ensures your tools stay organised and accessible at all times. The elasticated strap and carabiner-style belt clip provide convenience on the go. But it's not just about the packaging; it's what's inside that truly counts. Each tool in this set is manufactured from high-quality carbon steel, boasting ground and sharpened combination cutting edges for exceptional performance. The precision tapered double threads eﬀortlessly pull the bit into wood without exerting force, allowing you to withdraw the bit at any depth of penetration. Plus, the solid,

accurately centred screw point guarantees pinpoint accuracy. What sets these tools apart is the hexagon shank design, preventing slipping in the chuck and ensuring your work is fast, clean, and accurate every time. With an overall length of 235 mm for each bit, you'll be well-equipped to tackle any electrical project with conﬁdence. In the spirit of giving, we’re oﬀering six lucky readers the opportunity to win an Olympic Hexagon Shank Set this month.

n to wi

ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX016

LITHE AUDIO

C.K TOOLS

WIRELESS CEILING SPEAKERS

NECK LIGHTS

These all-in-one wireless Bluetooth 5.0 ceiling speakers combine an ampliﬁer, Bluetooth receiver, and a high-quality speaker all in one unit, delivering the ideal all-in-one solution for streaming Apple Music, Amazon Music, Spotify or any other audio streaming service from your mobile device. The speakers can be ﬁtted without any complicated wiring or messy installation work. They have everything built-in and simply connect to the lighting circuit. Tucked discreetly into the ceiling with a 3 mm deep magnetic grille, the Bluetooth 5.0 ceiling speakers promise perfectly uninterrupted low latency quality audio projection, giving complete sound coverage for your room. We have a pair of wireless Bluetooth ceiling speakers to be won this Christmas!

C.K Tools has been at the forefront of innovation for over 100 years, and the brand’s all-new lighting range, designed in collaboration with trade professionals and featuring the best of LED technology, is no exception. Featuring six new, top-of-the range products, the lighting range is designed to tackle everyday issues whilst on the job site. Three new inspection lights boast durable bodies, supreme battery life and the latest charging technology as well as the ultimate flexibility – whether held, magnetised, hooked onto an object or standing tall on a swivel base. Two new site lights will flood any area with light and, with waterproof and dustproof properties, it will be sure to function in the toughest of environments. With long lasting battery life and colour rendering index ensuring safety when working with coloured electric wire, this product is destined to be an essential piece of kit for busy worksites. Finally, C.K Tools’ new T9429USB Neck Light (of which five are up for grabs this month) features game changing technology to offer a steadier alternative to a head light. The Neck Light features an ergonomic comfort band and drapes lightly over the shoulders, allowing freedom of movement and steady, targeted lighting without placing undue pressure on the head and neck.

1 ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX017

28 December 2023

to win

PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX018

5 to win

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The deadline for all of this issue’s Christmas Giveaways is: 10/01/2024. Usual T&Cs apply.

CATTANO BOXMATE/SOCKETMATE PRIZE PACKS To celebrate the 12 days of Christmas, Cattano is giving away 12 gift sets for electricians. Each set contains a SocketMate bundled with two packs of BoxMates (single gang and double gang). The SocketMate is a simple plug-in device which allows electricians to ensure that sockets are fitted level first time, every time. SocketMate incorporates design features which ensure that the level is easy to read and quick to remove. BoxMate – a former PE Top Product winner – solves an age-old problem for electricians. When wet plaster gets into back boxes, electricians suffer the consequences, and have to spend time removing dried plaster at second fix. BoxMate prevents plaster ingress in the first place. By eliminating the need to dig out dried plaster, the unit saves electrical contractors valuable skilled time on-site. BoxMate has been adopted by independent electricians and large electrical contractors, and is now being specified by construction fit-out specialists and to win housebuilders.

ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX019

HIKOKI POWER TOOLS 18 V COMBI DRILL AND IMPACT DRIVER KIT

PE has teamed up with HiKOKI Power Tools to offer four lucky to win readers the chance to get their hands on a KC18DCJAZ 2 Piece Cordless Kit, which includes the DV18DC combi drill and the WH18DC impact driver. It’s a prize worthy of any professional’s Xmas list, with an RRP of almost £300 and comes with 2 x 5.0Ah Multi Volt batteries. This kit is perfect for all your drilling, driving, and fastening needs, whether you're working on wood, metal, or masonry. Let's start with the DV18DCX combi drill. This tool is a real powerhouse, with a maximum torque of a massive 140 Nm, one of the most powerful in the industry, and has a 22 stage torque selector for ultimate control. The DV18DCX is powered by a super-efficient brushless motor and features Reactive Force Control technology and a Gyro sensor that detects when the tool bit is overburdened, stopping the motor and reducing the twisting of the main body of the tool. Moving on to the WH18DC impact driver, this tool also features a brushless motor and is designed for fastening tasks. It has a maximum torque of 210 Nm in power mode, which means it can handle even the toughest jobs. The impact driver has a variable speed and reverse function, which gives you more control over the tool. Both tools are powered by Multi Volt 36 V Li-ion batteries.

ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX020

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ARMD

SMART VAN ALARM AND TRACKER

CARHARTT K87 POCKET T-SHIRTS The relaxed fit heavyweight short-sleeve K87 pocket t-shirt (103296) is one of Carhartt’s true legends. It is over 30 years since it was launched and it remains an enduring classic to this day. Now five lucky PE readers will get to experience what makes this tee so well loved. Made from a heavyweight cotton, this t-shirt is the perfect companion for the most demanding days on the job. Its slightly relaxed fit guarantees comfort from dawn to dusk, allowing you to tackle tasks with ease and with a spectrum of colours to choose from, from traditional shades like black, olive and navy, to contemporary tones including Alpine Blue Heather and Oiled Walnut Heather, there's a shade for every taste. Workwear just got a whole lot more colourful and comfortable! to win

At the heart of every successful trade business lies a dependable van and toolbox, but tool theft remains an unfortunate reality and a blight on the industry. The ARMD GUARD Smart Van Alarm oﬀers an exceptional level of protection for to win every van. Its 'plug and play' design ensures easy set-up without the need for any technical expertise. ARMD GUARD vigilantly safeguards your tools, and in the event of a break-in, it immediately triggers a phone call notiﬁcation, so you can quickly contact the police. Should your van be stolen, the integrated GPS tracker locates and tracks its whereabouts. The ARMD GUARD seamlessly integrates with the user-friendly ARMD App, which can be easily downloaded onto any mobile device. One winner can rest easy this winter knowing their van and tools will be watched over by the ARMD GUARD.

ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX022

MK ELECTRIC JUST EAT VOUCHER + SOCKET BUNDLES The festive period is all about togetherness, so why spend more time than necessary on-site installing wiring devices or fault finding? Deliver your best work as efficiently as possible with MK Electric’s Rapid Fix switchsockets. With innovative tool-less and spring-loaded cable clamps, MK’s Rapid Fix sockets can help ensure a safe and secure install, up to 45 percent faster than conventional screw terminal switchsockets (based on independent tests). The clamps prevent over- and under-tightening by keeping wires in place with the right amount of pressure. The socket is certified to British Standard BS1363 – which contains provisions for screwless terminals – to ensure a reliable connection that can withstand a pull force of 30N in a single direction for 60 seconds. For installs that need extra protection from knocks or the elements, MK’s Masterseal Plus Rapid Fix sockets offer IP66 ingress and IK07 impact resistance rated enclosures. We’re giving away five Masterseal Plus RapidFix sockets and 20 Logic Plus Rapid Fix sockets to help you get home for Christmas faster. To help you get more into the holiday spirit, we’re also giving away a £50 Just Eat e-voucher so you can enjoy the extra time with family and friends.

ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX021

ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX023

30 December 2023 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

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THE CPD ZONE

ENTER THE CPD ZONE AND EARN 1 CPD CREDIT TOWARDS YOUR PROFESSIONAL RECORD! ontinuing 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 1. Read ALL of the content and articles included within this month’s CPD Zone. 2. Find the QR code with the last article in this section and scan. 3. Enter your email address. 4. Fill out your details on the contact form. 5. Download your certificate for use as part of your annual CPD record. PREVIOUS USERS – ACCESS YOUR CPD CERTIFICATE IN FOUR STEPS 1. Read ALL of the content and articles included within this month’s CPD Zone. 2. Find the QR code with the last article in this section and scan. 3. Enter your name and email address. 4. Download your certificate for use as part of your annual CPD record. 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

PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN December 2023 33

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THE

CODEBREAKERS GARETH VICKERS: I FOUND THIS WHILE CARRYING OUT AN EICR. CLEARLY THERE HAS BEEN CONTACT ON THE EARTH BAR FROM THE LIVES, AND SOMEONE HAS ALSO REPLACED THE ORIGINAL SOCKETS WITH THESE. IT MUST HAVE BEEN A PLUMBER! Every electrician will have come across this kind of issue at some point – new faceplates where the existing conductors won’t reach the new terminals. To the competent, it’s a simple fix: extend the conductors in a safe way that doesn’t compromise the current carrying capacity of the circuit conductors or cause damage from improper termination. It would appear the installer has failed on all counts here. The Neutral conductor extension may not have an adequate current carrying capacity for the circuit, and too much of the un-insulated bare conductor is accessible. Although long enough for the new terminal positions, the Line conductors haven’t been terminated adequately, and again too much un-insulated conductor is accessible. In this case, the un-insulated Line conductors are touching the socket-outlet earthing bar G when the accessory is pushed back into position, causing arcing and a potential risk of fire.

The Observations, Regulation infringements and Codes applicable to this observation would be: Current carrying capacity of Neutral conductor extension may not be adequate

132.2.2, 134.1.1, 134.1.4, 526

Excessive un-insulated conductors accessible on both Line and Neutral conductors, causing Line conductors to contact Socket-outlet earth bar, showing signs of arcing and thermal damage

131.3.1 134.1.1, 134.1.4, 421.1.7, 526, 651.2(ii)

GET THE BOOK AND CRACK THOSE CODES! Updated for BS 7671:2018+A2:2022, NAPIT’s EICR Codebreakers publication is purpose-written to aid contractors, inspectors and clients, and now includes updates to align with Amendment 2 of the IET 18th Edition Wiring Regulations. The book is the perfect technical aid for electrical professionals and their customers.

34 December 2023 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

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

DANNY: THIS SOLAR INSTALLER TAPPED OFF THE POWER FROM THE MAIN SWITCH (80 A RCD RCCB 100 MILLIAMP) USING 2.5MM TWIN AND EARTH PVC CABLE STRAIGHT OFF THE MAIN 16MM TAILS! Regardless of cost, it is never acceptable to connect to a CU in this way, through lack of spare ways. There should have been a CU upgrade, to ensure the PV array could be correctly connected. Even though the PV circuit feeds into the outgoing side of a device, in a properly installed system, it is also considered a circuit and needs to be adequately protected against overcurrent and requires adequate isolation for maintenance. Overcurrent protective devices are usually sized in accordance with the instructions provided by the inverter manufacturer. In this case, the PV array is connected to the incoming supply side of the ELCB isolator (see image 1) so there may not be any overcurrent, or fault protection, as the photos we have are limiting the information we can use. If used as an isolator (as the label suggests), the ELCB won’t isolate the PV array circuit. The cables between the PV isolator (see image 2) Dand the ELCB incoming terminals, will be constantly Live with no way to isolate, or make safe for maintenance. There is a potential for both shock and fire damage in this

��

installation as it stands and can only be coded one way. Without further information on the complete install, its difficult to see just how poor this workmanship is. That’s the rub though, it’s a poorly installed system, with a likely potential for danger, and needs to be remedied before it causes harm.

The Observations, Regulation infringements and Codes applicable to this observation would be:

No apparent overcurrent or fault protection for PV array circuit

131.2.2, 131.4, 712.434.1

No apparent method of isolation for the PV circuit

132.15.201, 132.10, 134.1.1, 712.513.1

Incorrect and misleading labelling, with the potential to lead to harm (Fig 1)

514.11.1

Installation may not take account of inverter manufacturers instructions

134.1.1, 510.3

The A2:2022 18th Edition Codebreakers publication is priced at £22.00 (members) and £24.00 (non-members). It is available in both hard copy and digital versions * Price is VAT exempt and excludes postage and packaging.

ORDER YOUR COPY OF NAPIT CODEBREAKERS BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX024

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THE CPD ZONE

INSTALLING RCDS Depending on the particular characteristics of the ‘electronic’ loads and controls connected to an electrical installation, an RCD could be exposed to a range of residual current waveforms and frequencies. Unless RCDs are selected that are compatible with the loads and other devices connected, the protection intended may be compromised, as the experts at NICEIC explain. Introduction Electronic components are to be found in most electrical products installed in modern electrical installations. These include, for example: l l l l l

LED lights, Variable speed drives, UPS systems, Lighting and heating controllers, Appliances such as washing machines, induction hobs, dishwashers and fridges.

Such ‘electronic’ products can, in normal operation, generate DC as well as residual current waveforms of high or mixed frequencies, as shown in Fig 1(a). Furthermore, in the event of a fault, the current flowing is likely, depending on where the fault occurs, to be complex in shape rather than the sinusoidal waveform as shown in Fig 1(b). Therefore, an RCD exposed to such waveforms needs to be of a suitable type, otherwise a distorted waveform (or DC) could affect the time/current operation of an RCD and cause it to operate outside its correct operating characteristics – or, at worst, the RCD could fail to operate at all. It should be recognised that the term RCD covers a range of residual current devices. While the selection of an RCD is primarily based on the 1

residual current sensitivity required, other factors also need to be taken into account, including: l l l

Type A RCD cannot be assured where it is likely to be exposed to certain waveforms of mixed frequencies. For these reasons, regulation 531.3.3 of BS 7671 requires that an appropriate ‘Type’ of RCD is selected based on the frequencies and DC component likely to be present. When used to describe the operating characteristics of an RCD, the term ‘Type’ relates to the frequency and shape of current waveform for which operation is assured. A summary of the Types of RCDs detailed in regulation 531.3.3 and the particular current waveforms for which they are designed is provided in Table 1. In addition, the recommendations given in Figure A53.1 of Annex A53 of BS 7671, for protection against possible fault currents in systems with semiconductors should also be taken

the compatibility of the device with the type of loads connected, co-ordination between Types of RCDs, and selectivity between RCDs and other protective devices that may be connected in series.

Classification of RCDs The operating characteristics of a general purpose RCD (Type AC) is designed for sinusoidal waveforms of 50 Hz. Exposure to high frequency waveforms or DC can saturate the core of the RCD, and may render the device unable to correctly detect residual currents, 1 and as such, fail to operate under fault conditions. Similarly, the correct operation of a

Fig 1. Effects of electronic loads on the sinusoidal waveform

This is known as ‘blinding’ PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN December 2023 37

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THE CPD ZONE

Table 1. Classification of RCDs

into account. As such, regulation 531.3.3 details the diﬀerent types of RCD that exist and may be selected for use. Note: An RCD intended for operation by ordinary persons should conform to the relevant product standard listed in regulation 531.3.4.1, whereas an RCD for use by skilled or instructed persons should conform to regulation 531.3.4.2. Co-ordination between RCD Types Where RCDs are connected in series within an installation, the selection of one Type of RCD should not impair the operation of another device. Therefore, with reference to Table 1, RCDs should be co-ordinated such that: l

Type AC RCD should not be installed upstream of any other type of RCD, Type A RCD should not be installed upstream of a Type F or B RCDs, and Type B RCDs should not be installed downstream of any other type of RCD.

Selectivity between RCDs Given the RCD Types are compatible, selectivity between RCDs connected in series based on the residual current is achieved where: l

with appropriate time delay setting), and the ratio between the rated residual operating current (IΔn) of the upstream RCD and the downstream RCD is at least 3:1 (536.4.1.4).

A residual current protective device connected upstream of an RCD providing additional protection (rated residual current ≤ 30 mA), should be a Type S device, incorporating a time-delay for selectivity purposes. Note: A Type S RCD is not suitable for providing additional protection and where this device is installed it shall satisfy the disconnection requirements of Chapter 41 of BS 7671. Requirements for selectivity between overcurrent protective devices and RCDs are contained in regulation Group 536.4.1.5. It should be noted that a Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB) is not designed to provide overload or short-circuit

Compatibility with SPDs Regulation 534.4.7 requires an RCD installed upstream of a Surge Protective Device to be a transient resistant type having an immunity to surge currents (8/20) of up to 3 kA. Both Type S RCCBs to BS EN 61008-1 and RCBOs to the BS EN 61009-1 satisfy this requirement. However, the installation of a Type 1 SPD downstream of an RCD is not recommended (534.4.7). Considerations for electrical testing Irrespective of the function of an RCD, whether it is installed to provide fault protection, additional protection or protection against fire, its operation must be verified by testing (regulation Group 643.7).

Fig 2. Correct co-ordination between upstream and downstream type RCDs

Type S RCDs are covered by the BS EN 61008 series (RCCBs) and BS EN 61009 (RCBOs)

the upstream RCD is of selective type (Type S2 or time-delayed type3

protection and so suitable devices providing such protection must be installed. In the case of RCCBs housed within a typical consumer unit to BS EN 61439-3, short-circuit protection is provided by an upstream device, generally the supplier’s intake fuse, while overload protection is provided by the protective devices installed within the consumer unit. Therefore, the loads connected to a single RCCB must not cause the device to be subjected to a continuous overload exceeding its rating. Additionally, the short-circuit withstand capability of the RCCB should have a rating higher than the highest prospective fault current that could occur at its point of installation (536.4.2.4).

Circuit-breakers incorporating residual current protection (CBRs) with time delay settings and Modular residual current devices (MRCDs) with time delay settings are covered by BS EN 60947-2:2017+A1:2020. These RCDs should also be type S.

38 December 2023 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

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“An RCD intended for operation by ordinary persons should conform to the relevant product standard listed in regulation 531.3.4.1, whereas an RCD for use by skilled or instructed persons should conform to regulation 531.3.4.2”

In some circumstances, due to the compatibility of the RCD and the test instrument used, it may not be possible to obtain a measured value of earth fault loop impedance. Historically, some earth fault loop impedance test instruments injected a DC current to saturate the core of the RCD prior to testing so that the actual test current is undetected by the RCD. This technique of applying a DC bias eﬀectively ‘blinded’ the RCD and prevented it tripping during the test. Such a test was only suitable for certain devices such as Type AC and A RCDs. For other Types of RCD either a test instrument having a low current no trip facility or similar is required or the impedance value can be obtained by measuring the earth fault loop impedance on the supply side of the RCD and adding this to the value of the combined resistance (R1+R2) on the load side of the RCD.

Alternatively, automatic disconnection of supply (ADS) may be confirmed by verifying the effectiveness of the RCD and confirmation of the continuity of protective conductors downstream of the RCD (643.7.1). Summary In addition to providing the correct level of residual current protection required, an RCD should be selected so that it is compatible with the operating characteristics of the loads it protects and other devices connected in series. As the nature of loads and their operating characteristics become more complex, then confirming the suitability of existing RCDs should not be overlooked. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT NICEIC REGISTRATION AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX025

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THE CPD ZONE

In this article, the experts at Ansell Lighting look at how interoperability lighting works and advise on how to create an interoperable environment.

INTEROPERABILITY LIGHTING s the demand for smart lighting control solutions in the built environment continues to intensify, the need for educational buildings to run as safely and cost-eﬀectively as possible is greater than ever. Building operators can now safely monitor and control energy, lighting, use of space, emergency system maintenance and much more. However, for smart lighting to truly fulﬁl its potential, the most critical challenge to overcome is achieving interoperability.

How can you create an interoperable environment that delivers truly smart lighting to projects? Smart lighting systems have delivered huge benefits to organisations since their creation and are, importantly, having a huge impact on the reduction of energy bills and carbon emissions across all sectors. With budgets tightening and operating costs continuing to rise, making the move to smart lighting is something many businesses and organisations must consider in order to conserve funds and improve operational efficiencies. What benefits does smart lighting offer? l Suitable for both internal and external lighting circuits, it can be used to control illumination in all spaces. l

Responsive and adjustable, the automated technology ensures that lighting is used only where and when it is needed, reducing wasted energy use and its associated ﬁnancial and environmental costs. Lighting hues can be pre-set, providing a huge impact on safety and wellbeing.

Smart technology is measurable. Recent advances in equipment mean that many smart lighting solutions now come with dashboard controls which can accurately measure lighting energy usage in real time, giving a clear view of lighting-based energy consumption data across one building or an entire portfolio. This allows usage to be accurately evaluated and opportunities to reduce unnecessary use to be identiﬁed.

To unlock these benefits you first need to achieve interoperability. What is interoperability? It means creating an environment where systems and devices, produced by different manufacturers, use common communication protocols to work together seamlessly to deliver a truly smart lighting scheme. What solutions are out there? Zigbee: Widely used in smart home and building automation systems, Zigbee is a low-power wireless protocol that is designed to be interoperable across different devices and systems. It operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency band and can support up to 65,000 devices on a single network. Bluetooth mesh: Designed specifically for the Internet of Things (IoT), Bluetooth mesh operates on the same 2.4 GHz frequency band as Zigbee and can support up to 32,000 devices on a single network. Bluetooth mesh is particularly well-suited for lighting applications, as it offers low latency and high reliability.

Sensors: In addition to wireless protocols, smart lighting systems can also use sensors and triggers to achieve interoperability. Sensors can detect changes in the environment, such as occupancy or ambient light levels, and trigger actions such as turning lights on or off. Triggers can be used to initiate actions based on specific events, such as a door opening, or a motion sensor being triggered. The Cloud: Using cloud-based services is another approach that can be considered to help manage and control different devices and systems. Cloud-based services can provide a central point of control for multiple devices and systems, making it easier to achieve interoperability. Is there any other advice for installers? Whatever technology is selected, achieving interoperability in smart lighting requires a collaborative approach between all stakeholders involved in the design and use of the building. Specifying a truly interoperable system from the start will ensure that its benefits are harnessed for the long-term future. GET MORE DETAILS ON ANSELL’S CPD COURSES AND FUTURE DATES AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX026

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Dr. Zzeus ‘DR. ZZEUS’ TOM BROOKES, md of zzeus training and CHAIRMAN OF THE FSA, ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS RELATED TO FIRE SAFETY COMPLIANCE. This month I’m going to answer two questions relating to the skills of fire alarm and security installers: 1. How do you measure the resistance of a cable? 2. How do you calculate the resistance of a 1.5 mm standard fire alarm cable? Continuity BS 5839-1 clause 38.1 states that all installed cables with a manufacturer’s voltage rating suitable for mains use should be subject to insulation testing at 500 V d.c. Insulation resistance should be measured between each conductor and earth and achieve no less than 2 MΩ. It continues to say that on completion of the installation work,

where maximum circuit resistance for any circuit is speciﬁed by the manufacturer or supplier, measurement of the resistance of every such circuit must be documented. At ZZEUS Training, this is standard day three practical electrical testing, but it may appear that some training providers are not doing this. The standard is very clear: if you install a ﬁre cable, you must test it. Both should be done without devices attached. Firstly, you need to know what the expected resistance of a cable is in set

parameters; there are tables for the types of metal, and the temperature of the cable standard copper 1.5 mm fire cable at 20°C is 12.10 ohms per km. Resistance determines how difficult it is for current to flow and is measured in ohms (Ω).

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For this example, we are working out 85 m of 1.5 mm ﬁre cable. Step 1) Calculate the ohms per metre – 12.10/1,000 = 0.001210 ohms per metre. Step 2) Multiply the ohms per metre by the length of the cable – 85 m x 0.001210 = 0.1028 ohms expected. Next, you need to measure the cable's resistance physically. For this step, you will need a calibrated multifunction tester or multi-meter to measure in ohms. A word of caution: some multi-meters are inaccurate, so I prefer to use a multifunction tester. Zero or null the leads. All good meters have this function; that way, you are taking a true reading from the cable only. Next, attach your positive lead to one end of the core and the negative to the other end, select ‘continuity’ and press ‘test’. You should get a reading close to the expected 0.1028 ohms; I would expect it to be within 5% on the new undamaged cable. Ensure you attach the clips ﬁrmly, as loose clips can give a poor reading. In the next column we’ll look at how you take an insulation reading on a fire cable. DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION YOU'D LIKE ANSWERED? EMAIL YOUR QUERIES TO: TOM@ZZEUS.ORG.UK

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THE CPD ZONE

EARTHING OR BONDING? The technical experts at NAPIT examine the differences between Earthing and Bonding. hat’s in a name? These two principles are often confused, either by name or purpose. Let’s be clear, they both have vital roles to play in an electrical installation, but they’re both very different in the way they achieve their requirements. The only real similarity they have is the green and yellow cable we use to denote them, which is where the confusion between the roles they fulfil is likely to stem from.

Earthing conductors Earth, or the greater mass of Earth, is where we consider the fault path for current to ﬂow to in the event of a fault. That ﬂow is channelled via earthing conductors. Where the supply is a transformer, the earth point is usually the star point or neutral of the windings. As earthing conductors carry fault current, they have to be designed to withstand enough current to initiate the operation of

an overcurrent protective device (OCPD) within the times stated in BS 7671, Table 41.1. Depending on the OCPD, the required fault current can be many times the magnitude of a device’s normal operating current. So, when we look at the circuit earthing conductor, or circuit protective conductor (cpc) as we refer to them, for a ﬁnal circuit in a TN-C-S system, protected by a 32 A B curve MCB, it needs to be capable of handling 160 A for 0.4 seconds. In reality, a B curve MCB will operate almost instantaneously at 160 A. We can see from this requirement that we have to size our cpc or earthing conductor with the current ﬂow they’re expected to see in the event of a fault. There are a couple of ways we can do this: use Table 54.7 in BS 7671 or calculate the size we need. In order to calculate the size we need, we use the adiabatic equation given in Regulation 543.1.3 and shown in Fig 1. Earthing conductor re-cap So, to put that all together, earthing conductors used for cpcs must meet the following criteria: l l

They need to carry large currents for a short duration They can be sized in accordance with Table 54.7 in BS 7671 or They can be sized using the adiabatic equation in Regulation 543.1.3.

Using the adiabatic equation allows the use of smaller cross-sectional diameters of conductors than complying with Table 54.7. By doing this, the designer can use smaller, more cost-eﬀective cable sizes. Inspectors need to be aware of this

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when carrying out EICRs as an undersized cpc may have been calculated using the adiabatic equation and therefore will be more than adequate. Protective bonding conductors Bonding conductors, or more accurately, protective bonding conductors, can be either: l l

Main protective bonding conductors or Supplementary bonding conductors.

They’re both similar in their principles, but as the name suggests, one is very much larger than the other. Main protective bonding conductors Main protective bonding conductors are used to connect extraneous metallic parts to the main earth terminal (MET). We use the word ‘bonding’ because we’re bonding or connecting two parts together to create a zone of equal potential, or an equipotential zone – as it is known. Where extraneous metallic services or parts enter a building and are in contact with the general mass of Earth, it is

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conductor (MEC), where the main protective bonding conductors must be not less than half of the cross-sectional area of the MEC and no less than 6 mm2. Conductors sized in this way need not exceed 25 mm2 copper or its equivalent. For PME earthing systems, the main protective bonding conductors Fig 2: Examples of main earthing, main bonding and circuit protective conductors must be sized in accordance with BS 7671 Table 54.8. possible that they can introduce a voltage This Table gives varying sizes a bonding which can be different from that of the conductor can be, based on the installation’s MET or, indeed, other cross-sectional area of the incoming extraneous metallic parts. supply’s protective earthed neutral (PEN) When this happens, there is a potential conductor, but they can be no less than 10 for current to flow, dependent on the mm2 and need not be bigger than 50 mm2 voltage magnitude and resistance of any conductor – we call this a potential copper or its equivalent. difference. If the potential difference has enough magnitude, it can cause a fatal Main protective bonding conductor electric shock. re-cap By bonding any extraneous metallic Quite different to earthing conductors, parts and the MET together, all of the bonding conductors meet the following different services and parts are at the criteria: same potential difference, and current l They’re not designed or required to cannot flow between them. Main protective bonding conductors are sized carry large currents; they only balance in two ways depending on the earthing the potential difference between system being used. extraneous parts, l For PME installations, they must be All installations, except protective multiple earthing (PME), are sized in sized in accordance with Table 54.8 in relation to the installation’s main earthing BS 7671,

For non-PME installations, they can be no less than half the cross sectional area (csa) of the MEC and no less than 6 mm2.

Main protective bonding conductors cannot be calculated using an adiabatic equation; they must be sized in accordance with Regulation 544.1.1 or Table 54.8. Supplementary bonding conductors These carry out a similar role to main protective bonding but at a smaller scale, usually on an individual circuit, in an area that may beneﬁt from a more localised equipotential zone. Areas currently requiring supplementary protective bonding are Part 7 special installations or locations: l

l l l l l

701: Locations containing a bath or shower (this is usually relaxed where indents iv, v and vi of 701.415.2 have been met), 702: Swimming pools and other basins, 705: Agricultural and horticultural premises, 706: Conducting locations with restricted movement, 710: Medical locations, 740: Temporary electrical installations for structures, amusement devices and booths at fairgrounds, amusement parks and circuses.

Supplementary bonding conductors are generally much smaller in csa than main protective bonding conductors but must be no less than 2.5 mm2 for mechanically protected conductors and 4 mm2 for non-mechanically protected conductors. Conclusion Earthing and bonding are two very diﬀerent principles – one relies on carrying a high current to clear a fault, and the other relies on equalising any potential diﬀerence of voltage, so it isn’t likely to carry much current at all.

Fig 3: Examples of circuit protective and supplementary bonding conductors

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON NAPIT SCHEME REGISTRATION, VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX027

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THE CPD ZONE

EV QUESTION TIME: PART 1 In this first of a two-part article, Viktors Nikolajevs, CTEK’s Skillbase Manager in the UK, answers some of the key questions that installers are commonly raising around EV charge point installations. nstallers at our UK training sessions will ask a lot of questions when they’re learning how to best install EV charge points. But, there are certain topics that will crop up time and again at training events up and down the country.

In my experience, installers are keen to find out all about EV charging, how the charging units work and the steps to effective installations. They’re an inquisitive lot and ask some very good questions at each session. Here I’ll cover three of them, with further

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questions to come in the next issue: What RCD protection is there in EV charge points? BS (IEC) EN 61851-1 Section 8.5 stipulates that all charging points must have RCD protection. Where the EV supply equipment (EVSE) has only one connection point to the vehicle, or multiple connection points but only one can be active at any point, a single RCD can be used. The RCD device can be integrated into the EVSE or external. If multiple connection points are available on a single piece of EVSE, then each connection point must have its own RCD protection incorporated into the EVSE. The RCD used must be compliant with either BS (IEC) EN 61008-1 (RCCBs), BS (IEC) EN 61009-1 (RCBOs), BS (IEC) EN 60947-2 (Modular RCD) or BS (IEC) EN 62423 (Type B RCCBs/RCBOs) standards. The RCD must have AC rating not exceeding 30mA. Additionally, protection against smooth DC currents must be provided. The standard states that a Type B device can be used or Type A if explicit

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protection against smooth DC greater than 6mA is integrated into the EVSE, such as Residual Direct Current Detection Device (RDC-DD) as defined by BS (IEC) EN 62955:2018. What is the minimum IK impact rating a charging unit must have? According to BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 Section 722.512.2.203, charging points installed in public areas or car parks should have AG3 – impact of high severity rating. In practice that means that the charging points should be installed at heights and in positions where they’re least likely to be damaged in day-to-day use, adequate mechanical protection should be provided where there is risk of direct impact (such as bollards or barriers), and the charging equipment itself should have minimum IK08 rating. The IK rating indicates the degree of physical protection that applies to the complete enclosure of equipment. In

simple terms, it indicates how hard the equipment can be hit before the enclosure can be expected to break. IK rating is described in BS (IEC) EN 62262:2002+A1:2021, where 12 ratings are defined – from IK00 having no protection to IK11 being able to withstand 50 Joules of force applied. IK08 requires the equipment to be able to withstand five Joules of force. In what situations are AC chargers best and when are DC chargers more suitable? DC chargers are great where the dwell time is shorter, such as motorway services and other roadside facilities on highways, where the driver only wants to pause their journey for half an hour or so. If the installation site host expects its visitors to stay for longer, such as shopping centres, car parks, workplaces or cinemas, AC destination charging is better as each charge can be for more than a couple of hours. You can also install

several AC chargers for the price of one DC charger. Tap into training The appetite for EV installation training is growing all the time as more installers want to expand their knowledge of what is a huge growth market. A City & Guilds survey of installers found 45% of employers only recruit electricians who are already qualified or competent to install EV chargers. So, here at CTEK we’re committed to providing our Skillbase training to many more installers. Installers are invited to free online CTEK training events to learn more about installing EV charging infrastructure. The sessions will run at 9am and 1pm with the next one due to take place on December 7th. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT CTEK’S TRAINING EVENTS AND SECURE A PLACE BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX028

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THE CPD ZONE

THE GUIDE TO LI-ION BESS SAFETY Paul Reeve, ECA Director of CSR, looks into the safety considerations installers should be aware of when dealing with Li-ion battery energy storage systems (BESSs). n June, the Construction Leadership Council launched an industry initiative to drastically reduce the use of diesel on construction sites. Part of the initiative, headed by ECA, highlights safety considerations for the main alternatives to on-site diesel, including Li-ion battery energy storage systems. Li-ion BESS does not routinely fail to danger but, as many social media viewers can conﬁrm, when Li-ion goes into ‘thermal runaway’ the result can be dramatic, damaging and dangerous. A new information note from CONIAC* on the safety issues surrounding on-site Li-ion BESS cites the main operational hazards as:

I l

l l l

Mechanical damage Heat stress – ambient overheating Charging stress – overcharging/poor charging practice.

Pent up electrical energy Li-ion batteries, by their very nature, can hold signiﬁcant electrical potential and if the terminals short-circuit (e.g. with an uninsulated object or due to mechanical damage) that electrical energy can be released rapidly. As a result, and in addition to all the general electrical safety precautions such as keeping unauthorized personnel away, on-site Li-ion batteries need: l

Electrical failure or contact

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protection against electric shock that aligns with BS 7671/IET Electrical Energy Storage Systems CoP, including

adequate fault protection and proper consideration of the risk of DC arc flash; a clearly communicated safe system of work for battery fault-finding, O&M, replacement, commissioning and decommissioning; and clear communication of the electrical isolation procedures to competent staff/contractors, including regard for any battery-reliant critical systems.

Thermal runaway In addition, faulty Li-ion batteries have become infamous for spectacular and dangerous thermal runaway. This can produce profuse toxic and ﬂammable gases, energetic ﬂame and even explosion, and it can cascade quickly in adjacent battery cells. To help prevent dangerous runaway,

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Li-ion batteries typically require electrical management systems to ensure operation within controlled parameters e.g. voltages, temperature and charge states (which adjusts as battery cells age). But if the cells are stressed or damaged, degradation leading to runaway can be fairly immediate or (perhaps worse) develop some weeks later. By the time a Li-ion battery produces detectable smoke, dangerous runaway may have already begun. However, earlier intervention after detecting initial ‘off gas’ as cell temperature and pressure rises can prevent dangerous runaway if there is a prompt shut down (even if it can’t prevent expensive battery damage). This makes effective BESS temperature monitoring a valuable precaution, whether by thermal imaging or thermometers or probes. The hazards described here mean that only suitably trained and competent personnel should work with BESS or engage in BESS emergency measures. In particular, anyone involved in testing, connection, isolation and/or charging/discharging, should know safe operational practice and be sufficiently competent and trained (e.g. Level 3 Award in Design, Installation and Commissioning of Electrical Energy Storage Systems). Planning for operational safety In general, installing an on-site BESS needs a pre-site risk assessment (RA) which considers design and planning, transportation, installation and commissioning, operation and maintenance (O&M), emergency situations and end-of-service life. It will also need to consider additional measures for any BESS housed in a container.

Quality equipment required An additional root of operational Li-ion battery failure is poor BESS design and/or manufacture. A BESS should be designed, manufactured and tested in line with UK-accepted product safety standards and component compatibility. Crucially, it should enable safe routine and emergency isolation. A BESS should also be tested promptly when it arrives on-site – cycling (charging/discharging) the battery cells as prescribed by a reputable supplier. These and other safety measures highlighted in the CONIAC information note are essential when looking to bring BESS on-site, not just for safety and continuity reasons but, increasingly, to meet industry insurance requirements. In a panel Emergency planning An on-site emergency control plan for Li-ion BESS should include: l

a battery damage plan to include how to safely move batteries (which may include damaged batteries) a fire emergency plan to include: n equipment isolation/contained battery venting/personnel separation/evacuation – enabling a rapid call to the fire services (noting the risk of fire continuation or even escalation) n essential information for the fire services n initial cooling/flame fighting measures – avoiding/protecting against combustion products/fume inhalation. a clear-up plan to include how electrolyte leakage will be safely

cleared up and reported. The CONIAC information notes add that it “may take tens of thousands of litres of water, applied directly to a battery, to fully extinguish and cool down a sizable Li-ion battery ﬁre” adding “BEWARE POSSIBLE RE-IGNITION.” Sources of further information The CONIAC* (HSE-supported Construction Industry Advisory Council) ‘Safety issues and alternatives to diesel’ group is chaired by ECA. Its current information notes are at: www.coniac.org.uk/working-groups/man aging-risk-well Further reading l IET Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems l Need to Know RE1 BESS: commercial Li-ion installations v1 l Need to Know RE2 Li-ion Battery Use and Storage v1 l National Operational Guidance at: www.ukfrs.com/guidance/search/rech argeable-batteries GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT ECA MEMBERSHIP AND BENEFITS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX029

CPD ZONE ENDS! SCAN THE QR CODE TO CLAIM YOUR CPD CREDIT FOR THIS EDITION OR VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/ EAX030

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THE HANDS-ON TRADESHOW FOR PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIANS

ELEX2024 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

TOP PRODUCTS 2023

IDEAL INDUSTRIES 33-856 VDV Tester

MATT-E Guardian Incorporating patented O-PEN technology, the Guardian device is simply installed next to your existing distribution boards, allowing it to constantly monitor the electricity supply to, and the electrical infrastructure of, a building. The unit helps to detect faults and can safely isolate or warn the building owner of any potential issues, including: l l l l l

Loss of Neutral Broken PEN conductor, TN-C-S supply Voltage on protective earth/ground conductors High and low line voltages High and low frequency

The 33-856 VDV Tester is an LCD based all-in-one Voice-Data-Video tester for verifying proper wiring of low-voltage and data communications cables. The primary function of the VDV is the wiremap test. This test visually shows, pin-by-pin, whether a cable is terminated properly at both ends and if there is continuity from end to end. The VDV can test Data/Ethernet RJ-45 (8P8C), Voice/Phone RJ-11/12(6P6C/6P4C), and Video/coax cables. The LCD visually displays “PASS” or “ERROR” after each test to verify if the cable is terminated correctly. In Data mode, the RJ-45 port tests RJ-45 connector cables terminated to Cat 3/5/5e/6/6a twisted pair cables. When the test is activated, VDV checks each conductor of the cable for any opens (terminated or cut conductors), shorts (cut or nicked conductors that come into contact), miswires (wires out of order – not consistent at both ends), reversals, or split pairs (wired correctly but using wrong conductor order and grouping). The tester can accurately identify and alert the user to uplink/crossover cables. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX041

AICO Ei3030 Multi-Sensor Alarm The flagship alarm in Aico’s 3000 Series, the Ei3030 Multi-Sensor Fire and Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm combines individual Optical, Heat and CO sensors for the ultimate fire and CO response. Product specs include: l

l l

The Guardian can also connect to a cloud-based portal where building owners and maintenance companies can remotely view the device.

Fire response – The device contains a Thermistor Heat Sensor and high-performance Optical Sensor that intelligently work together, but will also operate independently. CO response – The proven electrochemical CO Sensor provides an accurate CO response. The CO response is in line with BS EN 50291-1:2018. Visual indicators – The relevant Fire and CO indicator flashes depending on what has triggered the alarm. Kitemarks – The device holds Kitemarks for various British Standards.

The Ei3030 also has a range of additional benefits, including built-in dust compensation technology, which reduces the risk of false alarms.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX040

BROWSE THE PRODUCT DATA SHEET AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX042

MARTINDALE ELECTRIC Advanced Socket Testers If further proof was required that Martindale continues to improve, adapt and innovate to meet the demands of modern day applications, two new advanced socket and non-trip earth loop testers – the EZ165 and EZ365 – have recently arrived, providing electricians or engineers who need to check mains sockets with a ‘must-have’ companion. These conveniently compact but powerful testers detect 28 fault conditions, check the mains voltage level and show how safe the earth wiring is by carrying out a non-trip earth loop test and indicating its value in six discrete ranges. This test is critical for ensuring the safety of an electrical system, as a low earth resistance is essential for safety disconnection devices to work properly and prevent electrocution when faults occur. The EZ165 and EZ365 testers have a variety of features to make fault diagnosis fast and easy. The combination of red and green LEDs quickly identifies neutral, earth, and live connections, and makes it easy to spot common faults. A look-up chart provides further fault diagnosis. GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX043

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STAY ALERT! New legislation, the recent revision to BS 8629 and the HSE’s ‘Be Ready’ campaign are set to accelerate demand for evacuation alert systems. Here C-TEC’s Business Development Manager, Andy Turner, examines the current climate and focuses on a cluster of projects where evacuation alert systems are being used to protect people should stay-put fail. n the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower disaster, the Scottish government quickly brought in a law requiring manual evacuation systems to be installed in new residential buildings taller than 18 metres. This meant a standard was needed to ensure these systems would be effective, so BS 8629 was written so it would be available when the law came into effect. Following this, the Grenfell Tower Inquiry phase 1 report was published, which recommended that evacuation systems should be installed in all new and existing high-rise residential buildings. Demand has also been fuelled by the new amended Part B of the Building Regulations which came into force on 1 December 2022. This states that evacuation alert systems must be fitted in all new high-rise residential buildings over 18 m in England.

The HSE’s ‘Be Ready’ campaign calls on the 12,500 high-rise residential buildings across England to register with the Building Safety Regulator and appoint a ‘responsible person’. The move to increase resident safety in tower blocks by informing owners and managers of their legal duties and the recent revision of BS 8629 are likely to intensify interest in the evacuation of tall buildings. What is an evacuation alert system? Evacuation alert systems are manually controlled alarms that allow the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) to set off sounders in groups of flats, usually a floor at a time, to alert residents to evacuate. However, the FRS will only use the system if it lacks resources to fight a fire effectively or if a fire is getting out of control, so it’s a system of last resort that may only be used hours after a fire first

starts. This is in contrast to a normal fire alarm system, which incorporates automatic fire detectors and operates as soon as a fire is detected. As one of the first manufacturers to design an evacuation alert system, C-TEC has been at the forefront of the new technology’s roll out in the UK. We specifically designed EVAC-ALERT so it can easily be customised to create a cost-effective BS 8629-compliant solution in any high-rise building. Case study: London calling An excellent example of how the system is currently being utilised is a seven high-rise residential tower block project in the heart of London. Guinness Square in Southwark and the Houses of Aubin, Clemoes, Maitland, Sherratt, Southgate and Sweeting in Brixton’s Loughborough Park are all managed by The Guinness

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PRODUCTS & BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

Partnership. The upgrading of the life safety systems was deemed vital to ensure the protection of residents living in the properties. Orestone Controls, the BAFE SP203 and SP207-accredited specialist systems integrator, was tasked with equipping the blocks with fully BS 8629 compliant evacuation alert systems to assist the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) in evacuating part, or all, of a building in an emergency. Ryan Mullen, Orestone’s CCO, said: “Demand for evacuation systems is at an all-time high due to a combination of improved fire safety standards and new legislation. We’ve noticed an increase in enquiries and orders since the new Part B of the Building Regs came in last year while the HSE ‘Be Ready’ campaign will also no doubt trigger new contracts with local councils and private companies over the next six months.” He added: “We chose to specialise in EVAC-ALERT primarily for the ‘handholding’ service C-TEC provides, namely the first-class technical support that is so important on life-safety system projects. From the first demonstration of EVAC-ALERT at our offices, to where we are today, C-TEC has supported us and our relationship has gone from strength-to-strength. “We’re experts at installation, highly conversant with the standards, and because of this we’ve had to expand our

fire division again with additional dedicated engineers to deal with growing demand. We’ve also started to work for other Housing Associations including GreenSquare Accord on some of their high-rise buildings.” As BS 8629 is a relatively new standard, C-TEC is very keen to ensure we educate people about its requirements. Throughout a project, we’re there to make life easier for the client – be that the consultant, the installer, the owner or building management company – and we can assist with plans, technical drawings and the loop calculations required. System design By using the unique evacuation alert system software created by our R&D team and undertaking an assessment of a building, we can calculate exactly which devices are required. Special requirements for elderly, vulnerable and disabled residents are also taken into consideration. We also provide completely free advice and training on commissioning, cause and effects and any other issues the customer may have. Ryan added: “Our engineers are constantly expressing how simple and intuitive EVAC ALERT is to install. The wiring is very straightforward and the flat interface units give you confidence that any short circuits will be isolated, protecting the integrity of the loops. There’s no doubt that the system’s simplicity has allowed us to achieve minimal disruption to residents and work around their busy lives, as we can be in and out of each flat in under an hour. “Customer satisfaction is very important to Orestone and we consistently score five out of five on reviews. We take time to engage with residents and explain how the systems we’re installing are designed to protect them. At Guinness Square we even held a joint open day with The Guinness Partnership to

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showcase the technology to residents, which the London Fire Brigade also attended.” Peace of mind The systems in each high-rise typically consist of 2-loop control panels connected to a host of single and multi-way interface units, self-testing sounders and visual indicators. Simple and intuitive, with manual controls to allow firefighters to easily operate the evacuation alert devices located inside flats on a floor-by-floor basis, the panel is stored in a secure vandal resistant cabinet which can only be accessed by the FRS using a special copy-protected key. Peace of mind that there is a ‘Plan B’ if everything else goes wrong is crucial in the current climate, not just for owners and residents, but also for the fire service. By installing an evacuation alert system, building management can be confident that every precaution possible has been taken to protect the people residing in the property. Certified to all relevant EN 54 product standards, EVAC-ALERT is powered by C-TEC’s CAST protocol and fully compatible with ENVISION, our powerful new Cloud-based fire alarm remote access, service and site management software package which can be used to provide duty holders with a verifiable audit trail of system activity and device testing.

WATCH A VIDEO DEMO OF THE EVAC ALERT SYSTEM FROM C-TEC AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX044

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PRODUCTS & BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

WHY LUMENS OUTSHINE WATTS For decades, the electrical industry has leaned heavily on wattage as a principal metric for evaluating and deploying lighting solutions. Today, the pressing need is to transition the industry's attention from watts to lumens as the definitive gauge for light output, as Russell Parr, CEO at PowerLed, explains. istorically, wattage, a measure of energy consumption, has been a reliable, albeit rudimentary, indicator of a bulb's brightness: a 60 W bulb almost always shined brighter than its 40 W counterpart. However, with the advent of new lighting technologies, like LEDs, and the drive towards energy eﬃciency, such a generalised relationship between power consumption and brightness will no longer suﬃce. Lumens, in contrast, quantify the total visible light emitted by a source and thus are the more apt metric in today's context.

LEDs – a beacon of sustainability and eﬃciency LEDs represent the future of sustainable lighting. Compared to other forms of

lighting, their energy efficiency is unparalleled, requiring significantly less energy (up to 80% less) to produce the same, if not better, brightness than incandescent or halogen bulbs. Over time, this delivers considerable reductions in energy consumption and, consequently, smaller electricity bills and CO2 emissions. Furthermore, LEDs don’t contain the toxic element mercury, often found in CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lamps). Indeed, because they release mercury into the environment, since 1st September, T5 and T8 fluorescent tubes are being phased out. Manufacturers can no longer produce mercury-containing bulbs and to comply with the RoHS Directive, all companies must find alternative lighting solutions and discard their fluorescents as hazardous waste or via structured recycling.

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Lumens: the optimal metric When considering lumens versus watts, it is evident that wattage, as a measure, doesn’t showcase the full potential of LEDs. Given their high luminous efficacy, LEDs produce more light (lumens) per unit of power consumed (watts) than traditional forms of lighting. Thus, lumen output is a more accurate representation of an LED's performance. At PowerLed, our view is that focusing on lumens rather than watts empowers consumers to make better-informed decisions regarding light quality and energy efficiency. For instance, choosing a 10 W 800 lumens LED over a 60 W incandescent bulb with the same luminosity provides the desired illumination levels but with lower energy costs and reduced environmental impact. Lumens are equally useful when comparing LEDs. For example, while both basic 9.6 W LED flexible tape and 9.6 W PowerLed +Flex use the same amount of energy, basic flexitape only produces 90 lumens per watt, whereas PowerLed +Flex produces 138 lumens per watt. Using watts, it is easy to believe both products provide identical brightness, however, PowerLed +Flex provides 466 lumens more brightness for the same power output. As LED technology improves and the focus shifts to reducing the power needed to achieve the same lumen output, adopting lumens as a metric for brightness

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will become even more important. With ﬂoodlighting, for instance, purchasing products based on their wattage is no longer reliable as a modern 100 W LED ﬂoodlight can achieve the same brightness as an older 150 W model. An additional advantage of reducing the wattage that LEDs need is that it will reduce driver sizes, lowering the cost of the product. Another consideration is the longevity of LED products. High-quality LED lights often have a lifespan of 50,000 hours or more, substantially longer than other forms of lighting. This provides a better ROI and minimises environmental waste

as fewer LEDs go to landfills. However, it is not unheard of for some companies to manipulate test conditions, like temperature, to exaggerate their product's lifespan. PowerLed takes a different approach, conducting tests at medium temperatures to offer a genuine 50,000-hour solution. Besides being more honest about lifespan, this practice enables the company to focus on warranty rather than on operational hours. It is important to note that customers commonly confuse the 50,000 hours lifetime of the LED with the product warranty, however, this is not the case.

Overall, the shift from wattage to lumens as the primary metric for evaluating lighting solutions is a significant step forward that offers the electrical contracting industry and consumers a more accurate, efficient and sustainable approach. Committed to delivering quality and efficiency, PowerLed offers high quality LED drivers and lighting solutions for residential, commercial and industrial projects. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE POWERLED RANGE OF LED DRIVERS AND LIGHTING SOLUTIONS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX045

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TRIED AND TESTED We catch up with the team at Rolec to ﬁnd out why the brand’s oﬀering to EV installers extends much further than simply products.

Back to basics One of the UK’s favourite and most aﬀordable EV charging pedestals – BasicCharge has proven itself time and again as a smart choice for reliable charging facilities. Chosen by many major developments, workplaces, and commercial spaces as the ideal charging solution for meeting Part S regulations, BasicCharge is more than your average EV chargepoint. It's a comprehensive and trusted

solution that empowers electrical contractors with the groundwork to expand their portfolio into both domestic and commercial projects. Designed with simplicity and cost-efficiency in mind, it comes with built-in LED amenity lighting as standard, fully OCPP 1.6 compliant and offers either a plug & charge experience or convenient pay-to-charge option via Monta or any chosen back-office management system. BasicCharge is a breeze to install. From unboxing to fully installed, Rolec provides step-by-step guides which walk electrical contractors through each simple step, ensuring the safe and efficient installation of the chargepoints. Fully funded solutions Rolec’s collaboration with Wattif EV means that you can now provide a variety of

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funding options to your customers. Fully funded, part funded, and subscription solutions are available for businesses, local authorities, and land owners, enabling you to oﬀer them free EV chargepoints, installation and management. Proven partners As the demand for EV charging infrastructure continues to grow, what knowledge can empower you to deliver a seamless EV charging experience to your customers? One of the strongest connections Rolec has made in the industry is with its electrical contractors. When the company first built its custom training academy it was to show them just how integral they are to the overall business. Now Rolec welcomes contractors to its premises regularly to keep them up-to-date with its latest product ranges and training. To add a ﬁnal touch, the courses are CPD accredited, with the new Installer CPD Training now available. Charge your knowledge, improve your skills, and keep up-to-date with the latest developments in EV charging while earning 4 CPD Credits at the same time.

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The training is led by Rolec’s Contractor Relations & Training Manager, Allan Ross, who is here to assist installers throughout the entire journey of preparing their business and customers for net-zero, providing guidance from the initial stages to ongoing support once a project is underway. Allan became a member of the Rolec team with two primary focuses: contractor relations and training, whilst strengthening connections with existing Rolec Approved Installer Partners. Rolec and Monta: making EV charging a whole lot better In a significant recent development, Rolec is now able to offer pre-onboarding to Monta. One of the biggest benefits of this, for larger projects, is that the installer would receive an invite to the ‘Installer Job’ on the Monta portal once units were dispatched to them, and here the entire network of chargepoints would be uploaded and waiting. There’s no need to manually enter the serial number for each unit, so the process can be more about installing and less about admin. Monta offers real-time status and analytics, helping you optimise chargepoints, spot trends, and understand

WHY WORK WITH ROLEC? l l l l l

Over 30 years’ experience in manufacturing Over 15 years in the EV industry UK manufacturer and supplier Three-years product warranty Specialist support team

user behaviour. As an installer, you also gain access to Monta's lead generator, which provides timely information on nearby chargepoint projects, allowing you to expand your business. Rolec EV Powered by Monta allows you to offer your customers cost-effective socket pricing, paired with Monta’s feature-packed Enterprise Plan, 24/7 support, reduced transaction fees and subscription costs. Once the installation is complete, you can ensure customer peace of mind by offering access to Monta's 24/7 support system. This efficiently handles customer services, reducing late-night call-outs, enhancing satisfaction, and lowering maintenance costs. Assured availability Rolec EV remains one of the largest manufacturers and suppliers of smart OCPP compliant AC fast and DC rapid chargers. The brand has been building relationships with a prestigious portfolio of blue-chip customers with a strong national wholesale network for over 12 years, which has grown to include over 3,500 distributors and stockists. An extensive stock holding enables Rolec to offer next-day delivery across its AC range and approximately five-day delivery on the DC range.

Buy with confidence For over three decades, Rolec has been creating bespoke and advanced outdoor electrical technology to help people power their journeys nationwide. The brand’s commitment to excellence is evident in all of its products, whether hardware or software, which are designed to high standards, ensuring that customers are at the centre of all services. Customer support Rolec’s team of account managers are on hand to support you and your customers throughout the entire journey; from oﬀering guidance to streamlining grant applications. Allan Ross focuses on enhancing contractor relations and training, while the onboarding team is dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition to the new back-oﬃce platform. Additionally, Rolec’s technical support team is available to assist contractors with any questions or installation needs. GET MORE DETAILS ON ROLEC’S FULL PRODUCT RANGE AND OFFERING AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX046

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NEVER A DULL DAY Rachel Preen, Managing Director at Prolectric, dispels a few common misconceptions and illuminates the truth behind year-round solar power and lighting. ore and more qualified electricians are now taking advantage of the growing market for renewable energy, which is increasing rapidly year-on-year. The opportunity to be part of a highly profitable industry appeals to many as the UK transitions towards Net Zero, with both private and public sectors looking to embrace alternative power and energy solutions. As renewable energy actively permeates into all aspects of our lives, whether you’re working in domestic, commercial or industrial settings, it will soon become difficult to ignore. Naturally, residential buildings are prime sites for solar panels, with PV installers in high demand. Some larger-scale electrical subcontracting businesses are increasingly working in renewable energy infrastructure systems, maintaining and installing solar and hybrid generators for example, or working with large machinery and three-phase systems, as well as being involved in temporary and permanent lighting installation schemes. In this climate of growth and diversification, as with all new and emerging technologies, it is crucial for clear and factual information to be made available to everyone working in and across the industry.

Whatever your area of specialism or involvement with solar to-date, a range of misconceptions continue to cast a shadow over the eﬀectiveness, especially during the colder months:

you to harness solar power, even when the sky is overcast. Prolectric has provided over 8,000 solar streetlights across the UK, brightening up car parks, walkways and streets.

Solar works 365 days a year One of the most common myths surrounding solar power is that it becomes less efficient during winter. Contrary to this belief, solar panels are designed to work efficiently, even in colder climates. Solar panels are often more efficient at converting sunlight into electricity when operating at cooler temperatures. While shorter daylight hours might slightly affect the overall energy generation, advancements in solar technology, such as improved panel efficiency and energy storage systems, have minimised this impact. Solar panels can also generate energy, even in less sunny locations. While regions with more sunlight may generate more electricity, Prolectric’s solar technology has been engineered to work in the harshest of UK winters, where cloudy days make up 43% of the year. Even on overcast days solar panels can still capture diffuse sunlight and convert it into usable energy. Additionally, modern solar panels are designed to work efficiently in low-light conditions, allowing

Dusk until dawn Solar lighting has come a long way from its early days. Thanks to technological advancements, solar-powered lighting systems are now equipped with high-efficiency LED lights and sensors that provide bright and effective lighting. The energy generated from the sun during the day is stored in batteries, allowing them to shine throughout the night. Prolectric’s specially developed smart light controller and PIR sensor work to ensure the solar LED light lasts from dusk until dawn, even on the darkest days. Solar lights offer a reliable and eco-friendly solution without compromising on brightness.

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Low maintenance Solar street lights and bollards are simple, quick and economical to install. With no need to dig trenches or install trunking for cables, installation time is minimal compared to conventional mains power alternatives. They’re also low maintenance, with no need for PAT testing, and a long operating life.

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Solar systems are often perceived as high-maintenance due to concerns about cleaning panels and maintaining batteries. However, modern solar panels are designed with self-cleaning technology. Battery maintenance is also minimal, with many solar systems featuring smart battery management systems that require little to no manual intervention. Routine checks and occasional cleaning are usually suﬃcient to keep a solar system running smoothly year-round.

Prolectric’s oﬀering When it comes to solar lighting, we’re very proud of our heritage. We’ve been championing quieter, safer and more environmentally friendly work sites over the past 13 years and were the first brand to introduce all-in-one solar street lighting to the UK in 2011. Prolectric’s solar technology provides a practical way for businesses to achieve their carbon-reduction commitments, enabling them to move away from fossil-fuelled or mains powered

systems. Our solar lighting and hybrid generators provide high-performance temporary and permanent site lighting and power – with minimal environmental impact and low running costs. In particular, our lighting systems produce no carbon, no noise, need little maintenance, and require no fuel. GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE PROLECTRIC SOLAR LIGHTING RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX047

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PRODUCTS & BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

THE HEAT IS ON! Matt Parton, Product Development Manager with ESP and Sangamo, answers some key questions relating to smart heating controls and energy saving measures. With homeowners looking to minimise energy costs, how can modern controls help get the best energy efficiency possible from a domestic heating system? Modern controls include features which reduce the amount of time a boiler is firing, which in turn will lead to reduced energy usage and costs. Having the heating on when the property is vacant or having no control over the set point temperature will result in an inefficient system. Features such as seven-day scheduling and thermostat control ensure that the boiler is firing when the property is most likely to be occupied and doesn’t exceed the desired temperature. In essence, modern heating controls offer automation to a heating system and work to avoid energy wastage by setting a logical pattern of heating. This is in comparison to relying on an end user to manually control the system, which can be time-consuming and costly if they forget to switch the heating off. There are advanced features available such as optimum start/stop which analyses the warm up and cool down periods of the heating system. Due to this analysis the firing time of the boiler is reduced, thus saving energy. In addition, the feature ensures that the set

temperature is reached by the system at the programmed time, thus preventing the need for the user to change the set point temperature which accelerates the firing of the boiler and leads to energy wastage. What benefits do the latest smart controls provide? Smart controls allow an end user to have full access to the operation of the control remotely via an App platform, which allows for settings and different modes to be adjusted remotely. This is particularly useful if there’s a sudden change in the weather or in the user’s routine when settings can be modified accordingly. An App platform also provides the user with historic heating patterns and a current live view of the heating system status. This provides an understanding of which times of the day the boiler is firing and enables a user to analyse and fine tune the programming of the heating control. One of the most noted advances in recent years is the popularity of voice control through virtual assistance. For convenience, or for users with restricted mobility, voice activated features enable a user to verbally change the set temperature or programming to assist with heating comfort. In addition, smart features such as open window/door

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detection will cancel a boiler ﬁring until the temperature stabilises or other conditions are met. How important are the aesthetics of smart heating controls? Due to the increase in smart phones and Apps, smart heating controls have become a popular consumer product in recent years. Function, operation and design are essential elements to be considered when it comes to the development and creation of desirable product solutions. As well as general demand from consumers, there is an increasing requirement for design-conscious heating controls for more commercial projects such as new builds and refurbishment projects. It is commonplace today to have a choice of wiring accessories and furniture and there is no reason why heating controls shouldn’t follow suit. Where once heating controls were considered a very functional product area, we’re now seeing a trend towards more aesthetically designed solutions.

BROWSE THE FULL SANGAMO HEATING CONTROLS PRODUCT RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX048

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A COMMON SENSE APPROACH Nathan Barwell of Seaward considers how PAT technology continues to evolve and it’s use for general safety management applications. here’s little doubt periodic inspection and testing of portable electrical equipment saves lives and prevents ﬁres that may otherwise have caused injuries, loss of life and serious damage to business premises and workplaces. In this respect, the Electricity At Work Regulations 1989, along with the HSE Memorandum of Guidance, IET Codes of Practice, and most recently British Standards have consistently provided sound advice based on industry experience and the electrical safety needs of the business community. Although nowhere in the EAWR 1989 is there a speciﬁc requirement for the testing of electrical equipment, there is an onus on the duty holder to ensure that equipment in the workplace is maintained so as to prevent danger. It is this requirement that has introduced the implied need for periodic inspection and testing – without such actions, the inference is that the duty holder will be

unable to establish the potential dangers posed by faulty or unsafe equipment. Planned and proactive safety measures must therefore be capable of detecting potential problems with appliances before they occur and this is the role of preventative maintenance programmes. As a result, in the event of electrical accidents, property damage or personal injury occurring, portable appliance testing can demonstrate a responsible and diligent approach towards safety that may subsequently be required by the HSE, employers, insurance companies and other interested parties. A proportionate response Clearly, combined inspection and testing measures should be appropriate to the particular risk posed by the equipment and its environment. For example, smaller oﬃces or workplaces with only a few electrical appliances, and a staﬀ of limited technical ability, might be regarded as relatively low risk environments. Here a responsible attitude might be regarded as

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a regular process of formal user checks and visual inspection, combined with some limited periodic testing. A different view, however, might need to be taken by a large organisation, with different departments having varying types of electrical equipment used by staff. In this case, ensuring the safety of appliances may not only be a matter of ensuring the correct test equipment is available, but also having the ability to show that the right tests have been performed at the right time in the correct sequence – with records of test levels and results. To meet this need, continuous technical innovation has ensured that portable appliance test instrumentation has kept pace with the changing demands of the workplace to meet the needs of everyone who has a responsibility for ensuring the safe use of electrical equipment. Over the years, electrical safety test instrumentation has evolved to make testing faster, more efficient and cost-effective for those involved – and all

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of this has been achieved without any compromise to the integrity of the testing being undertaken. The broad distinctions between manual and automatic testers have also remained, but the obvious differentiation between the two continues to close. All portable appliance testers now have much greater functionality with remote download of results and the ability to link to specialist accessories for more comprehensive testing. Changing technical demands Also, as successive IET Codes of Practice have highlighted the benefits of different types of electrical test, PAT manufacturers have responded by including, for example, the necessary technology to test fixed appliances and 3 phase equipment, test RCD trip times, provide different options for insulation test voltages and utilise specialist test currents for earth continuity testing. Alongside these changing technical demands, recognition of the growing maturity of the PAT market has also been the driver of innovation. For the modern PAT tester, time is money and competitive pressures mean that tests must be undertaken quickly and efficiently, but without affecting the accuracy and reliability of the test results. To meet the need to be efficient, a host of special features and accessories have been introduced. The introduction of

barcode labelling of products with automatic recognition of test protocols by the test instrument was an early development, and this was followed by the introduction of Bluetooth connectivity with test accessories such as label printers to speed up the test process. More recently remote download to mobile devices has allowed the modern tester to quickly send test data back to the oﬃce for processing. Lightweight, battery powered testers have further improved portability factors, reducing the downtime between tests. Improvements in test management software have allowed records to be updated automatically, reports and certiﬁcates to be produced and advance test schedules to be generated. All round safety management With developments such as these, the versatility of modern testing technology is increasingly being used as part of more general health and safety inspections and assessments. As well as comprehensive electrical test functions, the most advanced multi-purpose PAT tester is now equipped with an on-board risk management tool to help determine re-test intervals. This feature is included alongside a built-in digital camera to enable high quality images to be tagged against appliance records for completely traceable record keeping.

These advances mean that visual evidence of all workplace health and safety equipment can be recorded and tagged against inspection records. In addition, the built-in risk assessment capability allows the consideration of a variety of different workplace hazards and corrective actions to be planned and documented easily. In this way, modern testers with electrical safety as their core function also have the ability to create and store health and safety inspections outside of portable appliance testing, including fire safety and emergency lighting systems. It's clear that continuous PAT test innovation combined with a common sense approach at the centre of technology improvements bears fruit. Put simply, it means that important safety measures can be effectively maintained and applied in all workplaces without the imposition of an overly excessive test regime. The Apollo 600+ and PATGuard 3 test results management software forms part of a comprehensive range of Seaward PAT instruments, accessories and software that have been specifically designed to meet the needs of electrical safety duty holders in all workplaces. BROWSE THE SEAWARD APOLLO+ SERIES PRODUCT DATA SHEET AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX049

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Products IN PRACTICE

LEDline installation is just the job for Claridges The famous Claridges Hotel, set in the heart of Mayfair, London, is known for its sophistication and glamour. Guests over the years have included royalty, heads of state and celebrities, who enjoy the luxury of the hotel as well as the impeccable service. The hotel dates back to 1812, becoming known as Claridges in 1854. It was rebuilt entirely in the 1890s, with a significant refurbishment bringing an Art Deco feel to the hotel in the 1920s. The modern interiors reflect this heritage, which is continued throughout the reception area, the restaurants, cocktail bar and bedrooms. A programme of improvement works is currently ongoing at the hotel to upgrade the aesthetics of the public areas. This includes the bedrooms, corridors, stairwells, and bar/restaurant areas. The contractor for the project is McCorley M&E. As part of the upgrade to the lighting, McCorley M&E specified more than 3000 m of LED strip lighting from LED lighting specialist Aurora Lighting. This is a blend of the LEDline single colour flexible strip, and the same solution in an IP67 rating. All of the strip lighting needed to be in 2700K, which meant the single colour option was the ideal choice. LEDline is a flexible LED strip with a beam angle of 120° and 9 mm between LEDs and 120 LEDs/m. A cut point every 50 mm offers maximum flexibility, with a voltage drop of 4.5 V per 5 m and

maximum run of 10 m. Runs over 10 m lengths can be achieved by connecting the LEDline strip in parallel. Backed by a three-year warranty, LEDline is high-quality that blends durability with aesthetics, making it an ideal choice for luxury hospitality venues. A range of drivers encompassing IP-rated versions, non-IP rated, and DALI dimmable variants were also supplied. These allowed the project’s lighting control element to be fulfilled. LEDline corner profiles were also specified for the project. These aluminium profiles enable mounting of flexible or solid LED strips, up to 11.2 mm wide. Eoghan Harkin of McCorley M&E said: “The sheer amount of strip lighting required, with the specification of single colour 2700K and the option for a higher IP rating made Aurora Lighting the clear choice for us. LEDLine is a fantastic solution, offering reliability with high-quality output, and the variants we needed to meet the brief. The results are stunning and we’re looking forward to working with Aurora again in the future.” The LEDLine strip lighting, drivers and the profiles were supplied in shipment

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throughout the duration of the works, to ensure the contractor schedule could be adhered to. By shipping in batches, it also meant huge levels of stock were not on-site at any one time, which can be a health and safety hazard as well as risk damage to the luminaires. BROWSE THE LATEST EDITION AURORA LIGHTING CATALOGUE BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EAX050

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