Connections - Winter 2017/18

THE MAGAZINE FOR NICEIC AND ELECSA REGISTERED CONTRACTORS WINTER 2017-18 | ISSUE 204 | £5.00

"Am I smart enough?"

'You can be... Advances in home automation are changing the remit of electrical contractors. Find out how you could benefit'

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EASIER. SAFER. FASTER. You’d be amazed what a little RCBO can do.

The Starbreaker Miniature RCBO can save you space, time and money.

It can make installation easy, plugging right into the fully insulated busbar. It can cut testing time by removing the need to disconnect the circuit. But best of all, it makes the safe…safer. By switching off the live and neutral, it totally isolates faulty circuits and appliances – meaning you can reach the highest safety standards, all with one clever little RCBO.

Discover how Starbreaker Miniature RCBOs make safe homes safer at www.electrium.co.uk/products/crabtree

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WINTER 2017-18 | ISSUE 204

20

CASE STUDY 18 David Adams explores a Grade I listed Tudor country house undergoing a five-year, £1 million electrical services renewal

HOME AUTOMATION ON 2 0 Smart audiovisual, heating and security systems are no longer the preserve of the rich and famous

‘We’re seeing demand grow for the connected ecosystem that smart home products create’ 69

ELECTRIC VEHICLES 2 6 The phasing out of diesel and the growing accessibility of charging points means it makes sense to switch to driving electric

15

CONTRACTOR PROFILE 30 In the middle of a recession, two former apprentices took the risk of starting up Imperial Engineering and Construction. Now they’re reaping the rewards

7 HELLO 4 Change is on the horizon

30 TRAINING 1 0 Find out what NICEIC will be doing for the upcoming 18th edition

INDUSTRY UPDATE 6 Staying up to date with the forthcoming 18th edition

TECHNICAL 35 Technical information 36 Ask the experts 38 Prospective fault current 41 New BS 5839-1 46 Co-ordination for RCDs 51 CPR 54 Arc Fault Detection Devices 59 Apprentice Corner 64 Snags and Solutions

CAUGHT ON CAMERA 1 3 Exposed: your pictures of half-witted installations and DIY bungles

7 Overcoming hurdles with Kriss Akabusi; the Hackitt interim report

ADVICE 1 5 Are you correctly handling your

8 Campaigning for Alzheimer’s sufferers; Apprentice of the Year 2018

customers’ personal data?

9 The dangers of socket covers;

OPINION 1 6 Richard Brown sees Lot 20 legislation

dismay over rental checks decision

as a breath of fresh air for the industry

PRODUCT FOCUS 67 The latest products on the market OFF THE TOOLS 69 ‘I’m a professional boxer’ CURRENT AFFAIRS 70 White van man goes pink

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hello

TE I CAL E MC MHN A C LANC Y

Emma Clancy is chief executive officer, Certsure

Facing the future 2018 is shaping up to be a busy one for the electrical industry, with the 18th edition and regulatory changes on the horizon

W

elcome to the first edition of Connections in 2018. Hopefully, you all found some time to relax and recharge the batteries over the Christmas and new year period before returning to work.

This is already set to be an important year for the electrical industry. In July we will welcome the 18th edition of the IET Wiring Regulations. Our technical, publishing and training teams are busy planning what changes this will entail to ensure we can help you make a smooth transition to the new regulations from 1 January 2019.

Elsewhere, we await details of the public inquiry into the tragic events that occurred at Grenfell Tower last year. A comprehensive investigation into the circumstances around the fire is still underway and will be for some time.

But the disaster has highlighted a number of areas of concern and has triggered a series of reviews and consultations from government looking at fire safety and, more broadly, the whole building regulations system.

Certsure has contributed to all these reviews, outlining the need to focus on competence and to ensure a better enforcement regime.

Regulatory changes should, if done right, enhance the reputation of the legitimate, professional tradespeople and help tackle rogue traders that can bring our industry into disrepute.

Certsure has helped lay the groundwork for a better understanding of the need for a qualified, competent workforce, and we are well prepared for what lies ahead. We will work hard to ensure that the views of our industry are put across to government and keep you informed.

‘Regulatory changes should enhance the reputation of the legitimate, professional tradespeople’

C O N T A C T S / C O N N E C T I O NS

Level 5, 78 Chamber Street, London E1 8BL EDITORIAL General 020 7880 6200 Editor Nick Martindale nick.martindale@redactive.co.uk Technical editor Timothy Benstead Sub editor James Hundleby Senior designer Craig Bowyer Technical designer Adrian Taylor Picture researcher Akin Falope Publishing and business development director Aaron Nicholls ADVERTISING/MARKETING Gary Pavey gary.pavey@redactive.co.uk 020 7324 2726

PRODUCTION General production enquiries 020 7880 6240 Production manager Jane Easterman Production executive Rachel Young rachel.young@redactive.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS Should you require your own copy of Connections or multiple copies for your staff, subscriptions are available by calling 020 8950 9117 CONTRIBUTIONS Connections welcomes ideas for contributions.

Please email nick.martindale@ redactive.co.uk

© Redactive Publishing Ltd 2018 Level 5, 78 Chamber Street, London E1 8BL Registered No. 3156216. All rights reserved. This publication (and any part thereof) may not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in any print or electronic format (including but not limited to any online service, any database or any part of the internet) or in any other format in any media whatsoever, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Redactive Publishing Ltd accepts no liability for the accuracy of the contents or any opinions expressed herein.

Printed by Precision Colour Printing Limited

WWW.NICEIC.COM WWW.ELECSA.CO.UK ENQUIRIES Certsure 01582 539000 Communications manager Paul Collins 01582 539148 paul.s.collins@certsure.com NICEIC Direct Paul Elcock 01582 539709 paul.elcock@certsure.com Twitter @officialNICEIC or @officialELECSA Customer services 0333 015 6625 Sales 0333 015 6626 Training 0333 015 6627 Technical helpline 0333 015 6628 Insurance 0333 015 6629 Legal/tax 24-hour helpline 0117 934 2111 (provided by DAS Business Law)

ISSN 2042-5732

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INDUSTRY UPDATE

Tick, tock... get ready for 18th edition at new website With less than six months to go until the 18th edition of the IET Wiring Regulations is published, NICEIC and ELECSA have set up an information hub with everything an electrician will need to know.

Website www.18edition.com contains all the latest news and information relating to the new standard.

“The introduction of a new standard is obviously a very important time for all electricians,” said Mark Smith, marketing and communications director at NICEIC and ELECSA. “Everyone in the industry will need to be aware of the changes and the implications it has on the work they carry out.

“NICEIC and ELECSA will be at the forefront of providing electrical contractors with everything they need to know, from updates on the latest developments and opportunities to purchase the new book, to training packages to suit all contractors’ needs.”

The new standard is expected to be available on or around 1 July 2018, with electricians given a six-month transition period to get up to speed with the changes.

From 1 January 2019, it will then be a requirement

that all electrical installations designed after this date comply with BS 7671: 2018, 18th edition (2018).

An ability to show a level of understanding and awareness of the changes should be a priority for everyone involved in the electrotechnical industry.

To find out more and stay up to date with the 18th edition, log on to www.18edition.com

Certsure goes back to the future with new apprentices Certsure is helping shape the future of the electrical industry with the creation of three new apprenticeship roles.

For the first time, Certsure has set up an apprenticeship scheme that will see it personally develop and nurture the talent of the future. Three recruits will embark on a two-year programme that will teach them every facet of life at Certsure.

Emma Clancy, CEO of Certsure, explained: “We have a history of supporting new talent in the electrical industry through our Jobs for the Girls campaign and Apprentice of the Year competition.

“This year, we have gone one step further. Our own apprenticeship scheme will create two new area

engineers ready to go out into the field, and a new events engineer, who will work alongside Darren Staniforth.”

The three apprentices have already taken up their training, and there is a familiar look to two of the new recruits. Back in 2010, Jake Green and Jack Howells were in a group of students who took part in a pilot apprenticeship scheme sponsored

by NICEIC in conjunction with Bedford College.

Since then Jake and Jack, both 25, have gone on to enjoy a successful career in the industry as fully trained electricians. They have now returned, with Jake taking up the events engineer role and Jack becoming an area engineer.

Trained electrician trician i i Darren Walker, 33 33, is the third member of the group and will become an area engineer.

Traditionally, Certsure’s engineers have always been recruited from the wider electrical industry. They have an abundance of experience gathered over several years working in various aspects of the sector.

The new apprenticeship route is designed to modernise that process and develop the talent of the future.

“We have a responsibility to ensure we are doing all we can to work with, encourage and promote apprentices,” added Clancy.

Jake Green, Jack Howells and Darren Walker

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KRISS AKABUSI LIGHTS UP LIVE NORTH EVENT Former Olympic athlete Kriss Akabusi MBE inspired a crowd of more than 400 electricians at November’s Live North event.

Akabusi famously anchored the final leg of the 4 x 400m relay at the World Championships in Tokyo in 1991 to win gold for Great Britain.

Now a motivational speaker and businessman, he energised the audience at Aintree Racecourse with his notes on what it takes to get to the top.

“A career as an electrician is very similar to that of an athlete,” he said. “One day you could be working on your own and competing against others in your area, and then suddenly a big job comes up and you all have to work together in collaboration to get the job done.

“You have to adapt. You need to motivate yourself to achieve the best and then change that attitude to work as part of a team.”

Akabusi highlighted the influence that the then 19-year-old Roger Black had on the relay team when he first joined.

“Roger came in with new ideas and new goals,” he said. “Suddenly, just reaching the final was not good enough and we had to win.

It was a new way of thinking.

DIARY DATES > February 7 TechTalk Newcastle Newcastle Racecourse

“I always say to any business owner that it is important to listen to the young guys. They might have something different to bring to the table which will help your business grow.”

Live North also featured a presentation from one of the leading voices on physics: scientist and broadcaster Professor Jim Al-Khalili, who spoke about the battle between Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla to determine which electrical system (AC or DC) would power the modern world.

Attendees also took advantage of some great deals in a lively exhibition hall from some of the biggest names in the industry, including headline sponsors Bosch Power Tools, Elite Security Products, Scolmore and TradePoint.

Live South will be held on 17 May.

20 TechTalk Newmarket Newmarket Racecourse 22 TechTalk Wolverhampton Wolverhampton Racecourse

> March 15-16 Elex Manchester EventCity

> April 19-20 Elex Exeter Westpoint

> May 17 Live South Epsom Downs

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.niceic-elecsalive.com

FREE CONSUMER LAW BOOKLET

Hackitt report focuses on safety

NICEIC and ELECSA have produced a free publication for ELECTRICAL electrical contractors designed CONTRACTORS AND to keep them on the right side of CONSUMER LAW consumer law.

Electrical Contractors and Consumer Law was developed in partnership with the Dispute Resolution Ombudsman (DRO).

The booklet provides contractors with clear guidance about their obligations under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

Author Judith Turner, senior ombudsman at DRO, said: “When any tradesperson offers a professional service to a customer they are automatically entering into a contract covered by the act.

“It is important contractors are aware of their own responsibilities to avoid any unwanted disputes with customers.”

Certsure has welcomed the interim report from Dame Judith Hackitt’s review on building regulations and fire safety.

The review was set up in the wake of the Grenfell Tower fire last June.

“Dame Hackitt’s interim report delivers a number of key points for the building services sector to consider and act upon in 2018 and beyond,” said Emma Clancy, CEO of Certsure.

“We welcome her focus on the ‘safety critical’ elements of building, including the recommendation to clarify

the power behind your business

IMAGE: CARMEN VALINO

9 TechTalk Leeds Royal Armouries International

Copies of the booklet can be found on the NICEIC and ELECSA customer portal, or request an electronic version by emailing paul.s.collins@certsure.com

roles and responsibilities and raise the level of competence.

“NICEIC and ELECSA remain committed to ensuring that our registrants uphold the high standards expected by certifications bodies.

“We will work with government, local authorities and other bodies from across the sector to deliver any changes that will ensure that people feel even safer in their homes and workplaces, secure in the knowledge that work undertaken meets required standards now and in the future.”

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INDUSTRY UPDATE

CHARITY DONATION LEADS TO REGISTRATION REWARD

NEWS IN NUMBERS

10% The fall in the number of construction projects in October 2017, according to Barbour ABI. Despite this, the total value increased slightly to £7.1 billion, on the back of a number of HS2 contract awards

17% The expected increase in the number of electrical fires in rented properties by 2025, according to research carried out for Electrical Safety First by Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service

32% The amount of businesses that say between 3 and 10 per cent of their turnover is held in retentions, according to a survey by the Building Engineering Services Association and the ECA

57% The proportion of tradespeople who say they struggle to recruit. Some 31 per cent believe school leavers are put off by a poor perception of trade careers, Electricfix research finds

63% The amount of power that will be generated by renewable sources by 2040, according to research by Eaton and the Renewable Energy Association

Oxfordshire-based contractor Martin Ewins had a pleasant surprise and won himself a year’s free registration with NICEIC after helping support its campaign for Alzheimer’s Research UK (ARUK).

NICEIC and ELECSA have committed to raise £20,000 for ARUK over the next three years. As part of its fundraising activity, they asked registered contractors to donate 15 minutes’ pay to ARUK. All those who donated were then put into a prize draw to win a year’s free registration.

“It was a very pleasant surprise,” said Martin. “I never really expected to

win, to be honest, and I generally don’t bother with competitions. However, I lost an aunt not too long ago because of Alzheimer’s – so this one just caught my eye.”

Martin, who runs MJE Electrical Services in Bicester, has been with NICEIC for almost four years as an Approved Contractor. His prize sees him win his annual registration fee.

More than 40 electrical contractors donated to the cause, helping raise more than £1,000 in the process. NICEIC and ELECSA staff have already raised more than £5,000 through a series of fundraising events.

Record number enter apprentice competition More than 650 budding electricians entered stage one of the 2018 NICEIC and ELECSA Apprentice of the Year competition, sponsored by Scolmore. This is a staggering 60 per cent increase in entries from last year.

Now in its third year, the competition is open to all Level 3 students and will once again seek to test the skills and knowledge of those candidates who put themselves forward.

With stage one – the online assessment to test levels of electrical knowledge – now closed, the top 20 per cent will qualify for the next round – a 90-minute practical exam to be held at a number of locations across the UK and marked by industry experts.

Eight students with the highest scores from stage two will go through to the final, which will take place at Scolmore Group’s head offices in Tamworth, Staffordshire, on Tuesday 5 June. The

Apprentice of the Year will be crowned at a special awards ceremony at The Belfry Hotel & Resort that evening.

The brightest talents will be rewarded with a range of prizes, including holiday vouchers worth £2,000 for the winner, £750 for the runnerup and £250 for third place. The eight finalists will also receive an engraved trophy, an iPad and a van pack of Scolmore products, while the college of the overall winner will receive £1,000 worth of Scolmore products.

Every college that enters 20 students or more for the competition will receive a college pack containing a variety of Scolmore products.

As well as an overall increase in entries, there has also been a significant rise in the number of applications from older candidates, evidence of the growing number of people undertaking a career change.

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DIRECTORS FINED FOR LOGO MISUSE

Steve Palmer exposed the safety myths of electrical socket covers

Safety advice post goes viral An NICEIC-registered contractor has hit the headlines after his Facebook post went viral.

Steve Palmer, who runs JPS Electrical Services in Bristol, posted a video about the dangers of parents using electrical socket covers. The film has now been viewed more than 2.3 million times after the story was picked up by national newspapers and TV stations.

“It was an incredible few weeks really,” said Steve, who has been an electrician for just over seven years. “I put the clip on my own Facebook business page and thought I would just alert those in my local area. It then got picked up by a few sites and quickly went viral.

“The Daily Mirror covered the story and I was interviewed by my local ITV news team and BBC Radio Bristol. It has all been a bit surreal, but if it helps get the message across then it has to be a good thing.”

Steve, a father of five, said many parents were oblivious to the risk of using the plastic fittings to close up plug sockets. He said he has come across the covered sockets many times when working in homes and always advises parents to remove them.

In the video, Steve films his sons Preston and Jayden removing the plastic cover and using the device to poke around the socket and potentially expose live conductors.

He said: “I don’t blame parents for using them as they are simply unaware of the dangers.

However, we electricians know they are flawed, so I believe it is our duty to inform parents about the dangers they pose.”

A safety standard going back to 1947 means that the top hole in the classic British socket contains a ‘shutter’. Only by inserting a plug, with a top pin, can the shutter be opened, which in turn activates the live part of the socket.

For a child to get an electric shock, they need to stick their finger not only deep into the top hole, but also into one of the other holes.

While there are no cases of any children being harmed by socket covers, Electrical Safety First advised parents not to use covers back in 2009, highlighting the in-built mechanism designed to prevent access to live parts.

You can view Steve’s video by searching for JPS Electrical Services on Facebook and YouTube.

IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK

FRUSTRATION OVER PRIVATE RENTAL CHECKS DECISION Electrical Safety First has condemned the government’s decision not to commit to mandatory five-yearly checks on electrical installations in privately rented homes in England.

Phil Buckle, CEO of Electrical Safety First, said: “The tragic fire at Grenfell House made it clear that more has to be done to protect people who are living in rented accommodation. Electrical

Safety First has long been campaigning for the introduction of mandatory five-yearly checks on electrical installations in privately rented homes.

“Without regular mandatory checks, we believe the number of fires caused by electricity in the private rented sector will only get worse.”

There is currently no legal requirement for landlords in England to ensure that electrical installations are regularly checked.

Two directors of a Welsh company that falsely claimed to be NICEIC registered have been fined more than £12,000.

Jason Roberts, 36, and Carl Jenkins, 37, pleaded guilty to using the NICEIC logo on a vehicle and an advertisement without permission, after a joint investigation by NICEIC and local Trading Standards.

Both men were directors of A Grace Electrics in Abertillery when they breached the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations Act 2008.

The firm had originally been members of NICEIC but had its registration cancelled after ignoring a consumer complaint.

“These latest prosecutions show how seriously we take misuse of our logo,” said NICEIC CEO Emma Clancy. “It sends out the message that anyone thinking about misusing our logo will be caught and dealt with appropriately by the courts.”

Anyone suspicious of a contractor claiming to be NICEIC registered should check the full list of registered contractors available at www.niceic.com

QS FACEBOOK GROUP Did you know there is now a group on Facebook for all NICEIC Approved Contractor qualified supervisors?

The group was set up by David Simnett, an NICEIC QS, and is a community to chat and discuss technical and other matters. You can find it by searching for NICEIC qualified supervisors on Facebook.

ANDREW BRISTER Everyone at Connections and NICEIC was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Andrew Brister in November. Andrew was a highly respected journalist who specialised in the electrical and building services industry, and regularly wrote the case study articles and other features in Connections.

Our thoughts are with his partner, friends and family.

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18T H ED I T IO N

Ramping up With the 18th edition now just six months away, it’s vital contractors get up to speed with the new requirements, says Asad Majid

I

t is now just six months until the 18th edition of the IET Wiring Regulations is published. The new standard is expected to be available on or around 1 July 2018, with electrical contractors and electricians given a six-month transition period to get up to speed with the changes. From 1 January 2019, it will be a requirement that all electrical installations designed after this date comply with BS 7671: 2018, 18th edition (2018).

There has already been much speculation about what the changes to the standard will include, and you can find out more about some of the proposals and ideas being discussed at our dedicated website, www.18edition.com However, it is still early days, and anything could change between now and the expected publication date. One thing we do know is that contractors and electricians will have to be able to demonstrate a thorough knowledge and understanding of the updated regulations.

For some, this might mean upgrading from the 17th edition (or even earlier editions) by way of training and examinations, while for others it might involve demonstrating they are well versed in and conversant with the changes of the new standard.

However, an ability to show a level of understanding and awareness of the changes should be a priority for everyone involved in the electrotechnical industry.

To this end, NICEIC Training will be providing contractors and electricians with a wide range of options that means they can get the best training and advice possible. This will include:

Asad Majid is national training manager at NICEIC Training

The workshops – and associated exams if required – will be available at locations across the country.

Online learning NICEIC Training has been at the forefront of providing many of its courses online in recent years, and a recent survey revealed that 84 per cent of contractors would like any updated 18th edition training to be available online.

Online teaching means users can choose to learn at their own pace and do not need to take time off work to attend courses. Those who sign up for the online training can then take an exam (if

‘An ability to show a level of understanding and awareness of the changes should be a priority for everyone involved in the electrotechnical industry’ required) at a location and time of their choice.

Our online learning facility provides a practical solution to the demanding challenge of trying to fit in learning around work, and we will be developing the system to ensure the learning is clear, concise and easy to access.

18th edition workshops

Bespoke training

Classroom-based chalk-and-talk teaching is still one of the most popular methods of delivery for those who value the interaction of a group when it comes to learning.

NICEIC Training will be running a range of 18th edition workshops and training courses that will provide an overview of the changes and what contractors and electricians will need to do to ensure their work complies with the new regulations.

These workshops will be delivered by industry experts and will enable contractors to learn in an environment where topics can be discussed and debated with other professionals.

For larger organisations, there might be a need to get numerous operatives up to speed with the latest changes. This can be costly and timeconsuming, with large numbers of employees requiring time away from the business at the same time to get the appropriate training.

To meet this need, NICEIC Training can offer bespoke training to meet the specific needs of an organisation. Bespoke learning can be delivered at a time and place to suit you, saving on travel and accommodation costs. All the courses are developed and delivered by leading industry experts and mean all training needs can be met in one short timeframe.

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See u Elexsh s at ow Lon don 31st J an 1st Fe uary – bruary

The Way to Connect!

SAVING LIVES IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE

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COMING SOON...

NICEIC ELECSA LIVE SOUTH Technical Conference and Exhibition Don’t miss out on attending the multi award-winning NICEIC ELECSA Live!

Be a part of big debates, update your knowledge and be inspired by the latest innovations and technology for the electrical industry.

Save the date: 17 May 2018 | Epsom Downs Racecourse niceic-elecsalive.com /

#niceicelecsalive

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YO UR P I C T U R E S

2

Caught on camera

1

4

Trusty NICEIC and ELECSA contractors have been busy uncovering and rectifying dodgy installations and DIY botch jobs. Here are some of the worst offenders from the past quarter

3

6

A

wiring mess in a busy workshop (1); dodgy wiring with a carpet gripper rod in place of a back box (2); the aftermath of a home owner squirting expanding foam into a fluorescent light to tackle a wasps’ nest (3); dangerous electrics in the back of a double socket (4); and an unusual location in a loft hatch for a downlighter (5).

It continues with: a slapdash approach to kitchen wiring (6); a poorly sited consumer unit (7); burned-out electrics in a ceiling rose (8); shoddy workmanship in a kitchen (9); and substandard wiring found in a concealed area above a ceiling (10).

5

8

Thanks to... >Tony Hagger of AW Hagger Electrical in St Neots >Chris Smith of CD Smith in Leicester >David Allen of DPA Electrical in Stockton-on-Tees >Mark Carne of MC Electrics in Redcar >Mark Warrington of Electrical Solutions in Chichester >London-based Mihaita Leonard Bargaoanu >Mike Morey of B&M Installations in Ware >Jon Shelley from Pulse Electrical in North London >James Rowland of RD Electrical in Manchester >Stuart Burchett of Worthing firm Stuart James Electrical

7 9

10 Keep those shots coming in!

Email caughtoncamera@redactive.co.uk

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GDPR

Time to act Businesses of all sizes will need to review how they handle customer and supplier data in the light of new legislation coming into force in May, says Christine Jackson

T

he General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into effect on 25 May 2018, and applies to any business that has control over personal data, as well as those that process personal data on behalf of another business.

Under existing law, it is the organisation with control over data that is responsible for ensuring compliance with data protection law.

This will change considerably under GDPR, as some provisions will be directly applicable to processors.

GDPR continues to protect ‘personal data’, which identifies an individual (as under the Data Protection Act 1998), but the definition of ‘personal data’ now includes, for example, an IP address.

An EU regulation, GDPR applies to all EU member states and, as the UK will still be officially in the EU when it is enforced in May 2018, GDPR will automatically become law in the UK too.

Christine Jackson is a partner at law firm Wright Hassall

WHAT WILL GDPR BRING? GDPR will provide individuals with greater control over their personal data, which is why it is crucial for companies to introduce effective procedures and processes to safeguard themselves.

The first important step your business should take is to start recording the entire compliance process and making note of any significant changes to company procedures.

This ‘data register’ will help you meet the new accountability principles of GDPR, detailing the data your company currently holds and the reasons for processing it.

Ensure your existing digital and hard-copy format privacy notices and policies are concise, clear, easy to understand and easily found.

Assess how you communicate these notices and policies with data subjects, ensuring you explain your reason for processing the data, how long it’s retained and how individuals can complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office.

RIGHTS OF THE INDIVIDUAL Post-GDPR, individuals will have greater control over their personal data, so you must ensure your

‘Having transparent procedures will mitigate many potential future problems with the regulator’ procedures detail how you will provide data, how you would delete it and how you will correct any mistakes. You must also be able to prove you have a process to meet an individual’s request to have their information erased.

Perhaps one of the key drivers for the changes is the right for an individual to prevent their data being used for direct marketing purposes, as is the right to challenge and prevent automated decision-making and profiling.

Having transparent procedures will mitigate many potential future problems with the regulator.

If your organisation correctly handles personal data under the current Data Protection Act, the change to GDPR shouldn’t cause alarm.

You must comply within a month when an individual makes a subject access request to see what information you have about them. If you believe the request has no merit, you can refuse, but you must tell them why and how they can complain to the regulator.

BE RESPONSIBLE If you routinely monitor or process personal data on a large scale, it may be worth appointing a data protection officer to oversee procedures.

You must consider written records, also covered by the regulations, so ensure all your staff are trained on the correct handling of personal data.

The most important thing to remember is that recording the compliance process using a data register will help mitigate any potential claims.

Businesses that make no effort to meet the new requirements will suffer far worse punishment than those that do.

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E L E C T RI C H E A T ING

New era New rules on the installation of local space heaters will give contractors the chance to help customers with their heating requirements, says Richard Brown

O

nce in a while, new legislation comes along that can turn a market sector on its head. There’s no escaping the impact of Eco Design Lot 20 – and the positive difference it will make.

Effective from 1 January, the new regulation is intended to save energy and reduce carbon emissions, and it affects all local space heaters – including electric panel heaters and radiators – within residential and commercial buildings. Now, every model must feature 24/7 programming, electronic thermostatic control, adaptive start and open window functions to comply with a minimum efficiency standard.

Some leading manufacturers have used Lot 20 as an opportunity to develop pioneering control technologies.

For home owners, Lot 20 is a win-win. As well as having a greater choice of more sophisticated products, they will enjoy significant energy savings. Furthermore, they won’t be charged extra for this privilege, as manufacturers have been prohibited from passing on any increased costs when making existing models compliant.

For the electrician, Lot 20 presents opportunities to grow business through upselling and careful product selection. You will be able to instil trust in customers by demonstrating your knowledge of the technologies now compulsory in every heater.

In addition, you will be able to provide reliable recommendations for those models that exceed the new requirements and boast the very latest technologies. These include the intuitive GeoLocation – which activates radiators depending on the home owner’s direction of travel – and voice control compatibility with applications such as Amazon Alexa.

Lot 20 is a breath of fresh air for our industry.

Now we can all be proud of manufacturing, purchasing and installing energy-efficient products that not only save energy resources but reduce pollution too. This legislation will truly propel our industry forward.

Richard Brown is managing director of Electrorad

IN F O C US / S T E VE CO O K How long have you been working for yourself?

Whereabouts do you cover?

I’ve been self-employed for 12 years. I worked as a service engineer for six years, and when a family friend started winding down his electrical business it seemed the right time to join forces.

What work do you tend to undertake?

Steve Cook, Steve Cook Electrician, Mansfield

The majority is domestic, so anything from an extra socket to complete newbuilds, as well as CCTV installations, electric heating installations, energy saving advice and lighting designs.

I live near Mansfield, and 99 per cent of my work is within a 20-mile radius. Repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendations keep it a very simple set-up, and it’s easier to service my customers that way.

What’s the hardest thing about working for yourself?

There are some things about being employed that would be nice, like pensions and sick pay, but the earning potential, regular holidays and time off with the family can outweigh those.

Do you employ anyone?

What do you do outside work?

Not at present, but I’m considering taking on an apprentice. During the busy peaks I always regret having not done so when it was slightly quieter! It’s always a dilemma whether to chase more work just to keep an employee busy, or provide a high level of service.

I’m a keen amateur photographer and volunteer with my local bat conservation group in the summer months.

If you are a small business or sole trader and would like to feature in In Focus, email infocus@redactive.co.uk

16 W I NT E R 2 017- 18

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CASE STUDY

Not many electrical projects span a five-year period. But then not many involve working in an historic property dating back to the 1530s, as Steane is currently doing at Coughton Court

BY DAVID ADAMS

Rewiring history E

very electrician has had to do some difficult rewiring jobs. Not so many will have completely rewired a historic country house – but that is exactly what the special projects team at Warwick-based contractor Steane has been doing every week for the past five years.

The company has grown from a small family firm to a multi-million-pound electrical and mechanical services provider, and the special projects team has worked on some of the most notable historic buildings in the Midlands, including Warwick Castle, Coventry Cathedral, Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon (Shakespeare’s burial place), and 11 National Trust properties.

For the past five years, its staff have been working on the largest of all these projects: a full £1 million rewiring and renewal of the electrical services at the National Trust property Coughton Court, near Alcester in Warwickshire.

The house is a 2,500-squaremetre Grade I listed building, the oldest part of which dates from the 1530s. As well as being open to the public five days each week between March and November, the house is the home of the Throckmorton family, whose ancestors have owned

the Coughton estate for more than 600 years.

This has meant the work has had to be planned around visitor requirements and the needs of the family. It has been completed without compromising the historic fabric of the building, while also meeting all compliance requirements, and in accordance with a strict programme of works, because the Trust advertises exactly when each part of the house will be open to the public.

STEEPED IN HISTORY Steane is a family-owned business, set up in 1971 by James G Steane, since retired, whose son Darren is now managing director. The Trust has been a client since the 1980s.

The project at Coughton Court began in 2012 and has been completed in partnership with the building surveyor and consultancy SE Fowler Associates, with Sarah Fowler herself acting as principal co-ordinator and contract administrator for the project.

There have been five phases, each corresponding to a different part of the building. Each phase began with the paintings, carpets, furniture and other contents being removed, catalogued and stored, before specialist carpenters removed the oak panelling and lifted the floorboards.

Steve Utley (far right), pictured with (left to right) colleagues Malcolm Taylor and Daniel Stayt, and Sarah Fowler of SE Fowler Associates

What makes this process unpredictable and interesting is that no one really knows what will be revealed when the panelling and floorboards are removed. Houses like Coughton have evolved over centuries, and have been extended and altered on many occasions.

When rooms are stripped back it can lead to unexpected discoveries, such as voids or old doorways within the walls and floors.

“Once the panelling and floorboards have been removed, the conservator and historical buildings

‘Sometimes, unknown aspects of the house have been discovered, which can mean a temporary stoppage of the works’

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The copper cable fittings will become less visible over time (left and below right), while some have been decorated to match the wallpaper (bottom)

The team also often finds interesting objects after panels and boards have been removed – although Steve admits they have yet to find anything of any great historical significance. “No skeletons!” he jokes. “It’s things like old newspapers. I’d love to tell you we’ve found some kind of ancient parchment, but not yet.”

What they do find, of course, is the old cabling and electrical equipment.

At Coughton, much of this had been badly damaged. It has now been replaced by fire-resistant MICC cabling. At the time of writing, the team had installed 9.2km of cabling at Coughton, alongside 1,800 brass glands and earth tail pots along

that alerts the Trust’s employees of any possible leaks from the heating system, pipe work or internal rain water guttering.

But the main challenge Steane has faced is balancing electrical requirements with the fixtures and fabric of the building. “Everything has to be meticulously planned, but sometimes you can’t get cables to go where they were supposed to go,” says Steve.

“We’re also not allowed to drill into the oak panelling or floorboards. We have sometimes had to manufacture new bespoke switches to fit apertures already in the oak. We’ve also rewired existing light fittings, like

‘Everything has to be meticulously planned, but sometimes you can’t get cables to go where they’re supposed to go’ with new distribution systems, with RCD protection.

experts come in,” says Steane’s special projects manager Steve Utley.

“Sometimes, unknown aspects of the house have been discovered, which can mean a temporary stoppage of the works.”

One interesting feature at Coughton is the house’s ‘priest hole’; the Throckmorton family continued to follow the Catholic faith in secret after the Reformation in the 16th century, and a secret hiding place – the priest hole – was built into the house. It remained hidden until the 19th century and was only opened up fully in 1910, when a rope ladder, tapestry, bedding and a small folding altar made of leather were found inside.

The Steane team had the unique experience of being lowered into the priest hole on a cradle to install new lighting. “That was a great privilege,” says Steve. “There were a lot of engravings of initials in the stonework.”

9.2KM: THE AMOUNT OF CABLING THE TEAM HAS INSTALLED AT COUGHTON COURT

EXTRA PRECAUTIONS In 2015, while the project was underway, another National Trust property, Clandon Park House in Surrey (not one of those where Steane works), was almost completely destroyed by fire, possibly caused by an electrical fault in the basement. Unsurprisingly, this disaster led the Trust to review its fire protection policies. Steane has since supervised the installation of new fire protection measures by specialist installers: an L1 P1 fire alarm and detection system, four 60-minute fire compartments and 30-minute protected escape routes using horizontal and vertical fire barriers and automatic door closers.

New protections against flooding have also been added: the River Arrow is close to the property and parts of the house were badly flooded in 2007. New pumps have now been installed in the cellar in case there is another flood, while Steane has also installed a comprehensive leak detection system

chandeliers, to bring them up to current regulations.”

The team also works closely with the plasterers and decorators. At Coughton, some cables have been camouflaged to hide them against the wallpaper behind them. In other places, copper cable fittings, such as those leading to lighting above paintings, should become less visible over time as their exterior naturally oxidises.

It will feel strange to leave the house when the project is complete in April, says Steve. This has been the largest project the team has completed for the Trust and over the years they have become friends with many Trust employees and volunteers working there.

“It’s been a huge undertaking, but the Trust is a wonderful client to work for,” says Steve. “They expect the highest standards but we have been able to build up a very good relationship over the years. And it’s wonderful to be able to work in buildings like Coughton.”

David Adams is a freelance business journalist

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HOME AUTOMATION

After years of being the preserve of the rich and famous, home automation technology is finally starting to enter the mainstream market

BY DAVID ADAMS

T

he smart home, or home automation, industry has been claiming for years that its products are gradually becoming more suitable for the mass market. While high-end customers may still pay huge amounts of money for state-of-the-art technology to control heating, lighting, home entertainment, security and other domestic functions in luxury homes, at least some elements of home

automation are now available to those of us who live in perfectly normal houses and flats, rather than penthouse apartments.

In large part, that’s because almost everyone now carries a little piece of technology around with them that probably has greater computing capabilities than all the technology in your house did 15 years ago. “People are used to smartphones with lots of apps on them which they can

Award-winning smart home designed

by London-based NV Integration

HEATING UP But other technology trends are also encouraging consumers to want a smarter home, such as the growing popularity of ‘smart’ heating systems like the Nest learning thermostat, or security technologies that can be controlled via smartphone apps.

“This is something that is gathering momentum, whether we’re talking about lighting, heating, door entry systems or other smart home products,” says Electrical Direct managing director Wayne LysaghtMason. “It’s being led by electricians’ customers.” He points to a survey of Electrical Direct customers that suggests half of them have been asked about at least one form of smart technology by their own customers.

Simon Buddle, a home automation technologies consultant and education director at CEDIA, thinks the growing popularity of streaming TV services has played an important role, because more consumers demand good wireless coverage throughout their home and the ability to watch TV wherever they want.

A growing number of consumers and house builders are coming to the conclusion that a single wireless router may not always be able to handle this task, so there is a need for a cabling infrastructure within a building that will be able to manage

IMAGES: CEDIA, HONEYWELL AND NEST

Gathering pace

use to control things,” says Peter Aylett, technical director at home automation specialist Archimedia Middle East and a member of the Technology Council at the Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association (CEDIA). “It’s a natural extension for people to ask: ‘Why doesn’t my phone integrate into my house?’”

That question is particularly likely to be asked if the home owner has other devices that communicate with each other using Bluetooth or can access the internet through a wireless connection, such as tablets, smart TVs, speakers and digital assistant technologies such as Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri or the Google Home system.

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The Honeywell Lyric T6 smart thermostat

Home security can be monitored remotely via apps

Installing intelligent heating systems is increasingly popular

THE THERMOSTAT ‘KNOWS’ TO TURN DOWN THE HEAT WHEN SOMEONE IS LEAVING THE BUILDING AND HAS ACTIVATED THE SECURITY SYSTEM

the demands of whatever smart devices might be used there in the future.

Electrical contractors are ideally positioned to design and install these cabling infrastructures, says Buddle.

“Then the next step is testing and commissioning devices, routers or access points – maybe intelligent thermostats or intelligent locks,” he says. “Historically, everything was compartmentalised by trade, but the lines between trades are very blurred now.

“If I’m a plumber, I need to be able to put in a Nest thermostat, so I need to be able to understand the wireless network and the data network.

There’s a new breed of person now, effectively a smart home technician,

The Nest thermostat doesn’t need programming – it learns your schedule

who understands all the electrical services and data networks.”

Electricians are also perfectly placed to carry out installation and maintenance of burglar alarms, security cameras and door entry, access control and CCTV systems, including those that can be integrated and controlled by IP technology; and controlled and monitored remotely via smartphone apps.

INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGIES Andy Mansfield, marketing communications manager at technology provider Honeywell, extols the virtues of a complete security system – incorporating smoke and fire detection, movement detection, window-opening detection and security cameras – integrated with other smart home technologies.

Integration between security

‘There’s a new breed of person now, effectively a smart home technician, who understands all the electrical services and data networks’ 21 W I NT E R 2 017- 18

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‘Electricians can definitely up their game by becoming more proficient in lighting design’

Integrated home automation touchscreens aim at simplicity of use

Smart audiovisual systems are percolating through the market

and heating control systems, for example, means Honeywell’s Z-Wave thermostat ‘knows’ to turn down the heat when someone is leaving the building and has activated the security system.

“In our market, the heating system is the driver, but in a lot of cases you need to be qualified to wire these systems,” says Mansfield.

“In a lot of cases, we’re finding electricians are coming in and fitting heating controls, then getting plumbers to commission it to the

boiler afterwards.”

Other intelligent heating control products being installed by contractors include those produced by Hive, Heatmiser and Nest. The latter has also developed complementary smart products: smoke/CO2 alarms, indoor and outdoor cameras and the Nest Hello doorbell, which adds a camera to the front door.

“Designed one at a time, solving important problems in the home, together these products build a smart home,” says Paul Haynes, head of Nest Pro – Nest’s programme for authorised installers – in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. “The ability to provide examples of tangible benefits, whether it’s energy savings or ease of use, means the case for these devices is stronger than ever before.”

In with the new Lighting can be linked to an Ethernet network

Customers now want to stream TV anywhere in the house

Fenman House is a new development of apartments in London’s King’s Cross district that has been designed with intelligent building technology throughout. Powered by the Gira HomeServer system, occupants will be able to control their lighting, blinds, heating, ventilation, multimedia entertainment, access entry and security systems and more from a wall-mounted control and their smartphones. This type of technology is likely to become commonplace in new developments as customer expectations increase, creating further opportunities for electrical contractors.

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HOME AUTOMATION

‘The technology landscape is becoming less interoperable. The skill will be to make these systems work together’ One Nest Pro partner is Anark Electrical, based in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire. Its core business is now installing smart heating systems for domestic clients in the south-east of England, although the company also installs fire detection and security systems. “We have been working with Nest since their products first became available, installing them in homes of all kinds,” says director Andy Currie. “We’re seeing demand grow for the connected ecosystem that the products create. This is a key part of the success of our business.”

OUTSIDE THE HOME Smart heating has clear commercial applications, as does another product area that can act as a route into installing smart home technologies: lighting. Philips is among the companies leading the development

of more efficient, highly controllable lighting systems, including systems based on Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology that links each luminaire to a building’s IT network via Ethernet cabling. Each luminaire has its own IP address, so can be monitored and managed individually, with data fed back to help fine-tune energy usage.

Lysaght-Mason believes the growing availability of technologies that can deliver significant energy saving through closer control of heating, cooling and lighting will drive more facilities managers in charge of buildings of all kinds to look at ways to use these technologies.

“All these things give electricians the opportunity to be at the forefront of getting and installing the products which enable that to happen,” he says.

Case study: Smart LX Hassan Ahmet runs Smart LX, an electrical contracting and audiovisual equipment specialist based in Bromley, Kent, which serves clients in Kent and south-east London

Before qualifying as an electrician in 2011, Hassan Ahmet worked as an audiovisual installer, which has helped him move into working on home automation projects. “The good thing is that there are now so many options, whereas 10 years ago it was much more limited,” he says.

“Most of our work is still electrical, but we integrate a lot of technology into electrical rewirings. We can do all the lighting and all the power, but we can also install a full home network, with wired Ethernet and WiFi distribution.”

Other technologies he installs

for customers include Vera smart home and Samsung SmartThings home automation controllers. “It’s all relatively low cost, but it’s quite flexible, so you can start off small then build up the system,” he says.

He has also seen more demand for Nest, Hive and Heatmiser heating control systems, and for appcontrolled CCTV. “It is all becoming a lot more mainstream – a lot more of my customers are asking for it now,” he says. “I’m investing more money in it at the moment, going on more training courses and trying to advance my knowledge.”

In the domestic sphere, Philips Hue lighting is designed to enable home owners to control their lighting from any location using an app. Aylett believes the move to PoE lighting will have a big impact on the way electricians install lighting.

“It won’t be long before you can do whole-house systems using low voltage cabling for power and data, so the only thing needed is a single twisted pair cable for power and communications,” he says. “That’s a profound change.”

But he also thinks electricians should make greater efforts to adapt to customers’ demands for beautiful, functional technology solutions.

“Electricians can definitely up their game by becoming more proficient in lighting design, advising customers and architects on using technology to make an area more beautiful,” he says.

He believes many electrical contractors will benefit from the fact that while there will be many more smart home technologies in future, they will not necessarily be compatible with each other. “A lot of people think things are going to be more interoperable – but the reality is that the technology landscape is becoming less interoperable,” he says. “The sought-after skill will be the ability to take all these different systems and make them work together.”

Buddle agrees that these products now have a much broader potential user base than has ever been the case in the past. “Historically, I’ve been working in the top 2 to 3 per cent of the marketplace, but the technologies have percolated down through the market,” he says. “There are electricians in all these newbuilds.

With the right training, they can deliver cabling infrastructures into these places and then they can be the people who can look after those customers in the longer term on service and maintenance contracts.

There are lots of opportunities.”

David Adams is a freelance business journalist

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EL E C T R IC V E H I C L E S

125,000

The number of electric cars sold in the first 11 months of 2017

One for the road

By Rob Shepherd

The surge in the use of electric vehicles is giving contractors the opportunities and confidence to install charging points, as well as creating other spin-off benefits

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O

nce something of a rarity, electric vehicles (EVs) are now an increasingly common sight on the nation’s roads. This bodes well for the electrical contracting sector, which stands to benefit from the installation of the network of charging points that will be necessary to make the successful transition to electric motoring.

Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show

that new registrations of plug-in cars increased from 3,500 in 2013 to 125,000 in November 2017, and there are now in excess of 4,200 plug-in vans. EVs now represent around 1.8 per cent of the total new car market in the UK. Much of the uptake of EVs can be attributed to the plug-in car grant, launched in 2011, with the plug-in van grant following in 2012.

Purchasers are able to save 35 per cent of the cost of a car, up to a maximum of £4,500, and 20 per cent of the cost of a van, up to a maximum of £8,000. Sales have also been boosted by EVs’ exemptions from vehicle excise duty, the London congestion charge and the ultra low emission zone, due to come into force in London from 2020.

The government recently announced that it is to ban all new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2040 because of the effect of poor air quality on health. This commitment has also given the market a boost (the Scottish government has declared it wants to phase out such vehicles sooner, by 2030).

2040 The date by which the sale of purely petrol or diesel new vehicles will be banned

Despite any ban being more than 20 years away, it is already having an impact. “Businesses currently operating substantial fleets of combustion-engine vehicles are bringing forward their policy of converting to EVs much earlier than they had initially considered,” says Kieron Alsop, managing director of Rolec EV. “The announcement has also focused the minds of councils around the country, and many of them are looking to introduce combustion-engine-free zones in towns and cities before the government’s 2040 deadline.”

In the early days of EVs, something of a catch-22 situation existed, where the initial slow take-up was blamed on an inadequate charging infrastructure. This particular stalemate appears to have been broken, and the UK network of EV charging points has increased from a few hundred in 2011 to over 14,600 in October 2017, according to Zap-Map. Sunderland-based Elmtronics specialises in supplying and installing charging points to businesses and the public sector in the UK, and the company’s technical director Anthony Piggott believes the roll-out of EV charging points is proving to be increasingly successful. “If you purchase an EV, you will primarily use two charging points – the one you have at home on your drive and the other at your workplace,” he says.

“If you are travelling longer distances, you will use the 50kW DC rapid-chargers. These are available in almost every motorway service station across the country, with

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EL E C T R IC V E H I C L E S

drivers to pay annual fees, monthly membership fees and vehicle connection fees before they have received even a single kWh of electric.”

The market is expected to develop in other ways, too. EVs, renewable energy generation and energy storage might not initially appear to have much in common, but an interesting development is underway that is helping to connect them. “Future developments towards grid-supporting services, such as the vehicle-to-grid (V2G) concept, will further yield benefits, not burdens, and provide economic opportunities for businesses and homes while decarbonising transport,” says Matthew Trevaskis, head of EVs at the Renewable Energy Association.

the new Automated and Electric Vehicles Bill making it mandatory to have one in every filling station.”

Yet, although progress has been good, the charging network is rapidly becoming overburdened.

In fact, in the US there have been reports of arguments between drivers at charging points as they compete for access – what has become known as charge rage.

DRIVING FORCE As an NICEIC Approved Contractor, APi Electrical’s APi EV division specialises in charging point installation and maintenance. The company’s business development manager, Tim Scrafton, believes the UK’s charging infrastructure needs to be more in line with other leading EV adopting countries in Europe, such as Norway and Holland.

“With the oil companies now prospectively creating even more charging networks, we will need to see a common agreement between network operators so that drivers can simply use one app or credit card to charge at any destination,” he says.

Things are moving quickly, however, and BMW Group, Daimler, Ford Motor Company and the Volkswagen Group with Audi and Porsche recently announced a joint venture called IONITY that will develop and implement a high-power charging (HPC) network for EVs across Europe. Launching approximately 400 HPC stations by 2020, IONITY aims to make long-distance journeys

by EV easier.

Rolec’s Alsop has a word of warning, however: “Some of the current EV charging networks are having a negative impact on the savings drivers thought they could make,” he says. “Subscriptionbased networks are forcing EV

CHARGING AHEAD There are opportunities for electrical contractors in the installation and maintenance of charging points.

Many large EV charging companies are concentrating on commercial and public sector installations that can take anywhere from three to six months to turn around, so there is a large gap in the market for domestic installers.

Before taking the plunge, contractors need to familiarise themselves with the growing range of charging technology. APi Electrical’s Scrafton, for one, is positive about what this offers. “This is a growing market and there is a lot of scope within it for specialised contractors,” he says.

Eaton’s Shaffer also points to the installation of energy storage

‘Businesses currently operating fleets of combustion-engine vehicles are converting to EVs much earlier’ As EVs contain rechargeable batteries that spend most of their time unused, V2G means that they can store excess power when demand is low and feed it back to the grid when demand is high.

“With an increasing proportion of EVs, their impact on the grid is higher,” explains Louis Shaffer, distributed energy management segment manager EMEA at Eaton.

“But the energy stored in an EV can be used to power houses at peak time or reduce grid congestion when supply outstrips load.”

In 2016 Nissan revealed its plans for the UK’s first V2G pilot scheme and the launch of a new domestic energy storage system for the European market; 100 Nissan Leaf owners in the UK now use special bi-directional charging points to sell stored power from their vehicles back to the grid at peak times.

solutions as a way to diversify.

“Energy storage could be sold as a stand-alone offer or attached to other offers or applications like solar PV installation,” he says. “Electrical contractors who are already experts in power distribution will gain work by becoming knowledgeable on how to integrate energy storage and EV charging technology.”

The next few years promise to be exciting times for the EV sector, with demand being driven by increased production helping to lower vehicle prices, a greater choice of EVs, improved battery technology, a better charging infrastructure and more incentives for drivers to purchase these vehicles. Electrical contractors will be a vital part of the mix.

Rob Shepherd is a freelance business journalist who specialises in the building services industry

14,600

The number of EV charging points in October 2017

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12/01/2018 12:10

BUCKING

the trend

BY NICK MARTINDALE

R

ecessions are not generally regarded as being good for business, but there is an argument that each downturn helps the emergence of a number of new companies, set up on a leaner basis and looking to do things differently. This was certainly the case for St Helens-based Imperial Engineering and Construction, established by two electricians back in 2013.

“It was a tough time to start up, but we felt there had been a turn in the market and that it was only going to get better over the next few years, and that has proved to be the case,” says

Joe Lowton. “Many of the contractors that were around when we first started in the industry at 16 were no longer there, and the industry had also become more technically advanced. Some of the more established firms weren’t really keen on taking on voice and data or getting into LED lighting or more advanced control systems. It was an evolving market, and we could see that. There was no reason why we couldn’t make a success of it.”

Joe set the business up with Matthew Davies, the pair having met at college just a few years earlier while undertaking their

IMAGES: CHRIS BULL/UNP

Two former apprentices starting an electrical business back in 2013 seemed a brave move, given the wider climate. But a fresh approach and willingness to move into new areas has paid off

30 W I NT E R 2 017- 18

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retirement and his son wasn’t interested in taking on the company,” recalls Joe. “That happened quite abruptly, so some of the customers let us carry on with a couple of the jobs which were already underway. We finished them off to a good standard and from there we started to get repeat business.”

Today, around 90 per cent of the work is commercial, and much of it comes from working with two interior fit-out firms. “They operate as

‘You might see a quiet patch coming and then in a few weeks that will have turned on its head’

Joe Lowton (left) and Matthew Davies lead the Imperial team from their St Helens base

apprenticeships. “We both worked for different contractors, and I had a spell around 2008 when I worked as a subcontractor,” he says. “I did that for a few years, and Matthew stayed with the same contractor he’d worked for since he started, and he became a contracts manager. But we’d constantly been doing work casually, and we decided that we could make a business out of it.” Joe started to focus on the business full-time, with Matthew helping out with estimating in the evenings and weekends, before leaving his job six months later.

EARLY DAYS Initially, the new business started out taking on whatever it could get – mainly high-end private domestic work and subcontracting for more established firms – before it received something of an unexpected lucky break. “A local contractor who we worked for took early

30-34 Contractor profile.indd 31

Company Imperial Engineering and Construction Established 2013 Major projects Abney Hall, Cheadle; Workspace Design and Build/Bruntwood Estates, Manchester

4 The number of apprentices the business has trained to date

the main contractor, and we undertake all the electrical and data as a subcontractor,” he says.

“We also have a number of quite large clients where we work directly for them, including a large commercial landlord who owns a considerable amount of buildings in Manchester and the surrounding areas. Then we have a couple of chemical companies, which we do small installations and testing and maintenance for. About 75 per cent is with contractors and the remaining 25 per cent is direct to client.”

Voice and data installations are also becoming an increasingly important part of the firm’s work, and now account for around 30 per cent of jobs, says Joe. One project the business picked up early on was a refurbishment of Grade II listed building Abney Hall in Cheadle, which was being converted into offices. “That was challenging because there was conservation involved and we had to be sympathetic to the building structure,” he says.

“It came through one of the fit-out contractors that we have built up quite a strong relationship with now, but that was one of the first few jobs we did for them. They recommended us to the main contractor when it was at the tender stage, and we were awarded the contract.”

Most of the company’s work is in and around Manchester, says Joe, although it also takes on jobs in Liverpool and Preston and has even worked as far afield as Cornwall. “I’d say our comfort zone was around £250,000,” he says. “Anything above that is new to us and we’d be quite cautious about it.”

16/01/2018 14:16

CONTRACTOR PROFILE

Co-founders Matthew Davies and Joe Lowton (right) are on course to hit £1 million turnover this year

GROWING PAINS The business today has some 15 operatives, and three in the office, comprising Joe and Matthew as well as a full-time book-keeper. “My role has completely changed; when we first started I was hands-on, on the tools and I’m now a full-time estimator and project manager, as is Matthew,” says Joe.

THE COMPANY CURRENTLY EMPLOYS 18 PEOPLE, INCLUDING THE FOUNDERS

‘It was a tough time to start up but we felt there had been a turn in the market’

In the early days, though, the fledgling firm struggled to cope with its own growth.

“For the first year there was myself and a few subcontractors and an apprentice, and we turned over about £250,000,” says Joe. “Then in the second year, when Matthew came onboard, that went up to £850,000 and we literally couldn’t manage the cash flow.

“We had so much work but we didn’t have back-end processes in place. We were pushing our luck with the wholesalers, because we were a new company and yet we were taking out £25,000 worth of materials every month.” A school rewire which overran provided another steep learning curve, requiring all staff to work 12-hour days and seven days a week in a job that ended up costing the business £20,000.

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The two founders realised they needed a more professional structure in place to help run the business more efficiently. “We outsourced all our book-keeping, originally to someone who came in one afternoon a week, and then looked after everything remotely. So that freed up more time to concentrate on the project management and the estimating side of things,” says Joe. “We also made a conscious effort to evaluate the jobs before we took them on, rather than just taking on everything that came through the door.”

The company prefers to employ people directly, says Joe, as it means they have greater control over availability, but it will supplement its workforce with trusted subcontractors when needed. “Most of our employees are people who we have known for a while, so people myself or Matthew have worked with in the past or where there’s some link, so we’re quite confident in the skill set of the people that we’re putting out in our name,” he says. “But it is a tight balancing act because you might see a quiet patch coming and then in a

‘I don’t think we’d like to hit £10 million turnover as a purely electrical company’

‘In any difficult times, it’s good to have someone else in exactly the same position, so you can put your heads together’ few weeks that will have turned on its head. It’s a case of keeping a core team going and recruiting temporarily when the need occurs.”

Apprentices are also an important part of the company’s recruitment strategy. “We’ve been trading for four years and we’ve trained, or are in the process of training, four apprentices. That’s something we feel quite strongly about because it got us started,” says Joe. “There’s a lack of numbers coming through and that’s something that needs to be addressed. The big benefit for the company early on is having another person on-site, but as they progress you start to get the benefit of their knowledge. They’ve all been successful so far.”

PLANNING AHEAD The business is currently on course to hit £1 million turnover in the current financial year, and it moved into new premises in 2017 to better position itself for future growth. It’s also planning to take on a full-time contracts manager this year, to help Joe and Matthew focus on winning new

30-34 Contractor profile.indd 33

£2m The amount the business hopes to be turning over in five years’ time

contracts and developing the business, as well as ensuring they’re both able to achieve a sensible balance between work and home life.

The firm’s founders, though, are already eyeing up the next target. “In the next five years I would hope we have maybe 20 staff on-site and consistently turn over £2 million with a 20 per cent net profit,” he says. “We’re not looking to double in size overnight because I don’t think that is sustainable.”

Further down the line, it’s likely the business will look to develop a mechanical side in addition to its bread-and-butter electrical work. “I don’t think we’d like to hit £10 million turnover as a purely electrical company because it leaves you too exposed,” he says. “You only need a bad month and you could be finished; it is a volatile industry.”

There’s also potential to create a dedicated general domestic services arm covering electrical, plumbing and heating works, as well as callouts and repairs, he adds.

Joe admits the journey he and Matthew have been on has not always been easy. “The hardest part is consistently servicing the clients,” he says.

“It’s quite unpredictable in terms of workload and we tender a lot but obviously you don’t know, if you win the job, when it will start. You can be ticking along quite nicely and then on a Thursday find out that you’ve won and that it requires two staff there on the Monday. You’re constantly juggling and spreading the staff across projects, and trying to stay ahead of the other trades.”

Having a business partner is vital to staying on top of everything. “I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Joe says. “You share in the good times, and in any difficult times it’s good to have someone else in exactly the same position, so you can put your heads together and work a solution. I imagine it can be quite lonely when it’s just yourself that’s responsible for every single decision and there’s no-one to talk it through with. We don’t really have any issues and hopefully we’ll continue in that way and that will be good for the growth of the business.”

Nick Martindale is editor of Connections.

Could your business feature in our contractor profile slot? Email contractorprofile@redactive.co.uk

16/01/2018 14:16

UFHS Connections 210x280.ai

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1

04/07/2017

11:45

12/01/2018 12:11

technical

Your industry-leading reference guide to technical information 36

Ask the experts Answers to some of the more frequently asked questions put to our Technical Helpline

38

Prospective fault current in domestic and similar premises Looking at the determination of earth fault loop impedance in domestic and similar premises and demonstrating that under certain conditions, the external earth fault loop impedance should be determined by means other than testing

41

New BS 5839-1 Considering some of the significant changes that have arisen with BSI’s publication of BS 5839-1 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings: Part 1

46

Co-ordination and selectivity for Residual Current Devices Investigating co-ordination of, and selectivity between, two or more RCDs in series with each other

51

The Construction Products Regulation Summarising the main requirements of the Construction Products Regulation, which replaced the Construction Product Directive in 2013

54

Arc Fault Detection Devices Introducing the type of faults AFDDs are designed to detect, how they might be able to reduce electrical fires and the type of locations they are recommended for

64

Snags & Solutions A practical guide to everyday electrical problems

THE NICEIC AND ELECSA PUBLISHING TEAM Tim Benstead principal technical author Jonathan Elliott senior technical author Terry Bratley technical author Derek Cooney technical author Chris Long technical engineer Alex Whitworth technical illustrator

HELPLINE John O’Neill technical engineering manager Sam Donaghy technical helpline engineer Stuart McHugh technical helpline engineer Duncan McFarlane technical helpline engineer Norman Bradshaw technical helpline engineer Mark Cooper technical helpline engineer Richard Atkins technical standards engineer Mark Barnes-Rider technical helpline engineer Craig Kemp technical helpline engineer Craig Cunningham technical helpline engineer

35 W I NT E R 2 017- 18

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17/01/2018 10:52

T E C HN I CAL

Ask the experts

QU E S T I ON

What restrictions are placed on the installation of electrical equipment under a bath or shower basin where the space can be accessed without the use of tools?

We continue with our series of answers to some of the more frequently asked questions put to our Technical Helpline Q UE STIO N

Can I fit low voltage (230 V) current-using equipment such as a booster pump underneath a bath where the side panel requires the use of tools to remove it?

A N SW E R

Yes. Regulation 701.32.3 states that where the area below a bath tub or shower basin can only be accessed by the use of tools that space is considered to be outside of the zones.

Under what circumstances is it NOT necessary to provide local supplementary bonding within a location containing a bath or shower?

Q

Regulation 701.415.2 states that local supplementary bonding is not required where the location is in a building having a protective equipotential (main) bonding system which meets the requirements of Regulation 411.3.1.2 and ALL three of the following conditions are also met:

A

ANS WE R

A space under the bath or shower which is accessible without the use of tools is classified as being in Zone 1 (Regulation 701.32.3).

Any low voltage currentusing equipment (such as a shower booster pump) installed in zone 1, must be installed as fixed equipment and permanently connected and must be deemed suitable for installation in that zone by the manufacturer’s instructions (Regulation 701.55).

Any electrical equipment installed in zone 1 must provide a minimum degree of protection of IPX4 (Regulation 701.512.2).

QU E S T I ON

Q UE STIO N

With reference to the question above, does BS 7671 permit the equipment to be connected by means of a plug and socketoutlet installed in that space?

A N SW E R

Yes. As the space under the bath or shower is deemed to be outside the zones (Regulation 701.32.3 refers) a socket-outlet can be installed.

Connection by means of a plug and socket-outlet will simplify the repair and/or replacement of the pump and will also provide an unambiguous means of providing isolation of the equipment when such is carried out.

• All final circuits serving the location must comply with the relevant requirements of Regulation 411.3.2 for automatic disconnection, and • All final circuits serving the location must be provided with additional protection by an RCD as required by Regulation 701.411.3.3, and • All extraneous-conductiveparts of the location must be effectively connected to the protective equipotential bonding of the installation in accordance with the requirements of Regulation 411.3.1.2.

Do you have a technical query? Call our helpline on 0333 015 6628

Is supplementary bonding required where an electrically heated radiator or towel rail is to be installed in a location containing a bath or shower and all three conditions required by Regulation 701.415.2 for omission of such bonding are not met?

ANS WE R

Where one or more of the conditions required by Regulation 701.415.2 are not met, supplementary bonding will be required.

The circuit protective conductor connected to the earthing terminal of an electrically heated towel rail or radiator can also act as the supplementary bonding connection and so an additional conductor will not need to be installed (see Regulation 544.2.5).

36 W I NT E R 2 017- 18

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16/01/2018 14:17

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15/01/2018 12:45

T E C HN I CAL

Prospective fault current in domestic and similar premises O B JE C TIVE

This article looks at the determination of earth fault loop impedance in domestic and similar premises and demonstrates that where particular conditions relating to the consumer unit and associated electrical equipment installed therein are applicable, the external earth fault loop impedance should be determined by means other than testing.

This article refers to regulations that appear in the DPC which may be amended by the final version to be issued in 2018.

BS 7671 requirements Within the proposed standard BS 7671: 2018, Regulations 132.2 and 313.2 require that, amongst other characteristics of the supply or supplies to an electrical installation, the prospective short-circuit current should be determined by calculation, measurement, enquiry or inspection.

Similarly, Regulation 434.1 requires prospective fault current to be determined at every relevant point of the installation. ‘Relevant points’ would include the points at which items of switchgear and protective devices that may have to operate and possibly disconnect a fault current are installed.

This determination allows for the correct selection of equipment at the design stage and so, with the exception of additions and alterations to an existing installation, is most likely based on calculation and/or enquiry to the relevant Distribution Network Operator; who is required by Regulation 28 of the Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations 2002 to provide details of the maximum prospective short-circuit current at the supply terminals.

During initial verification, prospective fault current has to be determined in order to confirm that the electrical installation meets the requirements of BS 7671 with respect to the fault current rating of installed equipment. The person(s) carrying out the initial verification will be able to compare the results of their determination, required

by Regulation 643.8.201, against relevant criteria such as the design of the installation to confirm that the relevant requirements of the Regulations have been met (Regulations 641.1 and 641.3). It is likely this determination will be made by testing, in many cases at the initial verification stage (refer to Fig 1).

In general, the fault current (short-circuit) rating of such equipment should be equal to, or exceed, the maximum prospective fault current at its point of connection within the installation and the equipment should remain functional such that downstream equipment is protected from damage in the event of a fault (Regulation 536.4.201).

Conditional rating However, for an installation with a 230 V singlephase supply rated up to 100 A that is under the control of ordinary persons, switchgear and controlgear assemblies must either: • comply with BS EN 61439-3 with an appropriate short-circuit rating, or • be a consumer unit fitted out with components and protective devices complying with BS EN 61439-3 specified as suitable for such use by the manufacturer.

Where a consumer unit to BS EN 61439-3 is installed in domestic or similar premises, as a result of product testing, the arrangement of the devices and the outer enclosure (of the consumer unit) will be adequate to safely 38 W I NT E R 2 017- 18

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installed in a consumer unit to BS EN 61439-3.

It should be noted however that this conditional rating is only applicable where all devices and components have been declared suitable according to the assembly manufacturer’s instructions or literature. This is because only such arrangements will have been verified by the manufacturer’s product testing for fault current withstand.

In view of the above, and where the conditional rating is applicable, carrying out testing to determine prospective fault current at either the origin or for final circuits is not essential.

withstand a prospective fault current of up to 16 kA. The conditional testing assumes the following: • the consumer unit is fed from a single-phase supply at a voltage not exceeding 250 V via a service cut-out containing an HBC fuse to BS 1361 Type II of rating not exceeding 100 A, and • the maximum prospective fault current declared by the Distribution Network Operator (DNO), suitably corrected to take account of service cable length, does not exceed 16 kA. This is why circuit-breakers and other equipment having a fault current withstand significantly lower than that declared by the DNO may be used without back-up protection when

Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and live working No live testing, or other live work, is without risk.

To restrict live working to where it is essential or unavoidable, Regulation 14 (Work on or near live conductors) of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 states that: No person shall be engaged in any work activity on or so near any live conductor (other than one suitably covered with insulating material so as to prevent danger) that danger may arise unless – a) it is unreasonable in all the circumstances for it to be dead; and b) it is reasonable in all the circumstances for him to be at work on or near it while it is live; and c) suitable precautions (including where necessary the provision of suitable protective equipment) are taken to prevent injury.

Paragraph 210 of Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Guidance on Regulations (HSR25) Third edition published by the Health and Safety Executive states that: “People whose presence near the live conductors is not necessary should not be so near the conductors that they are at risk of injury.”

Fig 1 Measuring prospective fault current

a.) Line-Neutral

OFF

OFF

Note: Refer to manufacturer’s instructions for correct connection

b.) Line-Earth

Conclusions

OFF

Following on from the above description of the testing procedures, and where conditional rating is applicable, it follows that carrying out an unnecessary test to determine the prospective fault current at the origin, or indeed elsewhere within the installation, is unjustifiable live working and hence could be seen as a breach of Regulation 14 of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

Avoiding unnecessary live testing reduces exposure to danger. It also reduces somewhat the time necessary to carry out the initial verification of new work, additions and alterations and the periodic inspection and testing of existing premises.

OFF

Note: Refer to manufacturer’s instructions for correct connection

39 W I NT E R 2 017- 18

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T E C HN I CA L

New BS 5839-1 O B JE C TIVE

BSI have published a new version of BS 5839-1 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings: Part 1: Code of practice for design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of systems in non-domestic premises.

This article will consider some of the significant changes that have been introduced. This article should be read in conjunction with the new standard.

Introduction The new version of the code of practice, BS 5839-1: 2017, came into effect on 31st August 2017 and after this date BS 5839-1: 2013 will be withdrawn.

BS 5839-1 has provided guidance and recommendations on fire detection and fire alarm systems since 1988, when it replaced CP 1019: 1972 Installation and servicing of electrical fire alarm systems. However, the standard must not be confused with fire prevention or other fire precautions.

Clause 2: Normative references Clause 2 of BS 5839-1 details the normative references: these are referenced within the standard in such a way that they constitute requirements.

BS 5979: 2007 Remote centres receiving signals from fire and security systems – Code of practice has been withdrawn and replaced by BS 8591: 2014 Remote centres receiving signals from alarm systems – Code of practice.

Furthermore, references have been added to the following: • BS EN 54-21 Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Part 21: Alarm transmission and fault warning routing equipment; • BS EN 54-29 Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Multi-sensor fire detectors – Point detectors using a combination of smoke and heat sensors;

The new BS 5839-1: 2017 standard addresses fire detection and alarm systems

• BS EN 54-30 Fire detection and fire alarm systems – Multi-sensor fire detectors – Point detectors using a combination of carbon monoxide and heat sensors; and • BS EN 54-31 Fire detection and fire alarm system – Part 31: Multi-sensor fire detectors – Point detectors using a combination of smoke, carbon monoxide and optionally heat sensors.

Clause 3: Terms and definitions Clause 3 details the terms and definitions that are used within the standard. It is important that any reader notes any specific definition. For example, the definition of ‘circuit’ is slightly different from that given in BS 7671 as is shown below.

Standard

Definition

BS 7671

An assembly of electrical equipment supplied from the same origin and protected against overcurrent by the same protective device(s)

BS 5839-1

Assembly of fire alarm components supplied from the same control equipment and protected against overcurrent by the same protective device(s) or current limitation arrangements.

The definition of ‘critical signal path’ has been expanded to include transmission equipment for the routing of signals to alarm receiving centres (ARC).

Critical signal path – components and interconnections between every fire alarm initiation point (manual call point or automatic fire detector) and the input terminals on, or within, each fire alarm device and (where provided) transmission equipment within the premises for routing of signals to an ARC. Additionally, the definition of 'false alarm' has been changed to include amongst other things, a reference to 'environmental false alarms' within the note attached to the definition.

False alarm – fire signal resulting from a cause(s) other than fire.

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12/01/2018 12:14

T E C HN I CA L

Note: False alarms can be subdivided into four categories: a) unwanted alarms, in which a system has responded, either as designed or as the technology might reasonably be expected to respond, to any of the following: 1) a fire-like phenomenon or environmental influence (e.g. smoke from a nearby bonfire, dust or insects, processes that produce smoke or flame, or environmental effects that can render certain types of detector unstable, such as rapid air flow)1; A fire alarm signal that has been passed on to the fire and rescue service by an automatic fire detection and alarm system is now called an ‘unwanted fire alarm signal – UFAS’.

Clause 8: Relationship between system category and areas protected There have been a number of changes to clause 8 detailing the design considerations for fire detection and fire alarm systems.

• In 8.2c), Category L3 and L4 systems,2 multisensory detectors have now been included alongside smoke detectors and a mixture of smoke and combustion gas detectors.

• In 8.2e), an informative note has been added to explain the process of designing a Category L2 system3.

1 BS 5839-1 details the full range of false alarm categories.

2 Category L3: system designed to give warning of fire at an early enough stage to enable all occupants, other than possibly those in the room of fire origin, to escape safely, before the escape routes are impassable owing to the presence of fire, smoke or toxic gases.

Category L4: system installed within those parts of the escape routes comprising circulation areas and circulation spaces, such as corridors and stairways.

3 Category L2: system identical to a Category L3 system with additional objective of affording early warning of fire in specified areas of high fire risk or hazard level.

4 Category L1: system installed throughout all areas of the building.

• In 8.2g), Category L1 systems4, multisensory detectors have now been included alongside, smoke detectors and a mixture of smoke and combustion gas detectors. An informative note has also been added.

Clause 11: System components In clause 11.2a), a note has been added recommending that a protective cover is fitted to Type A manual call points (refer to Fig 1).

This recommendation has also been included in clause 20.2b) rather than as a note. The intent of this change is to limit the risk of false alarms.

Clause 15: Communication with the fire and rescue service Clause 15.2 has added three additional clauses, n, o and p and a note.

• 15.2n) recommends that where fire alarm signals are routed via the routing equipment of an intruder control system, the standby power supplies for the routing equipment should conform to clause 25.4 within BS 5839-1.

• 15.2o) recommends that where the control and indicating equipment (CIE) is to signal a fault from the fire alarm system to an ARC, the CIE should have a suitably monitored means of interfacing with the relevant fault routing equipment.

• 15.2p) recommends that faults in either the alarm transmission equipment or in the alarm transmission path are displayed at the CIE.

Fig 1 Manual call point with cover

Clause 19: Staged fire alarms Note 2 in clause 19.2.2e) of the 2013 version of BS 5839-1 has now been converted into a full clause – clause 19.2.2g).

Clause 19.2.2h) recommends that where there is a staff alarm, smoke detectors in access rooms that form the only means of escape from an inner room should give an immediate local warning of fire to occupants in inner rooms, even where the alarm signal is delayed in other areas.

The standard also refers to a diagram (Figure 5) which shows a typical staff alarm arrangement.

Clause 21: Types of fire detector and their selection Clause 21.1.7 is a new clause detailing the provision of video fire detectors, and the old clause 21.1.7 (Choice of fire detection principles) has now become clause 21.1.8.

Further detail has been added to the commentary in clause 21.1.8 dealing with single sensor detectors and multi-sensor detectors.

Clause 21.1j) has been reworded to recognise that video fire detectors can be used as the sole means of detection and refers the reader to the recommendations of the product manufacturer.

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T E C HN I CAL

Clause 21.2k) is a new clause recommending that where detection can be set to a range of different operating modes, the basis of such selection should be recorded in the operating and maintenance manual for the system.

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Clause 22: Spacing and siting of automatic fire detectors The commentary to this clause highlights a possible need at the design stage to carry out some sort of field testing for hard-to-access detection equipment, particularly with regard to testing and maintenance.

Clause 22.3b) has been added to inform the designer that the recommendations of BS 7273-4 Code of practice for the operation of fire protection measures. Actuation of release mechanisms for doors take precedence over the recommendations of clause 22.3a) where there is a conflict.

A new Figure 14 has been added detailing spacing and siting of detectors on honeycomb and similar ceilings. Table 1 has been simplified.

A new Figure 15 has been added detailing spacing and siting of detectors on ceilings with closely spaced beams or joists. Table 2 has been simplified.

Clause 22.5d) (Recommendations for siting of optical beam smoke detectors at a distance exceeding 600 mm below ceiling level or 600 mm below the apex of the pitched roof) has now included more detail: • supplementary detection of a rising smoke plume within a high space • installed at an angle from the horizontal • positioned close to the apex of a pitched roof • where the physical features in the roof space prevent the optical beam detector being installed within 600 mm of a horizontal ceiling.

Clause 22.9 (Recommendations for limits of ceiling height) now states that the limits listed in Table 3 are intended for ceilings over large open areas. Where there are vertical or flue-like structures, such as lift wells and the like, the limits should be used as guidance.

Clause 26: Cables, wiring and other interconnections Clause 26.2 has been updated to reflect the currently available standards; furthermore, references to PH classes found in BS EN 50200 previously existing in clauses have now been made into Notes (for example refer clause 26.2d)).

Clause 29: Electrical earthing Clause 29 has been renamed ‘Electrical earthing’ where previously it was ‘Electrical safety’.

The commentary has been significantly altered to reflect the impact of such a title change.

Reference to the requirements for separated extra-low voltage (SELV) is now more clearly aligned with the requirements of BS 7671.

Section 3: Limitation of false alarms and unwanted fire alarm signals Section 3 introduces the concept of ‘unwanted fire alarm signals’. Clause 30 considers who is responsible for limiting false alarms and unwanted fire alarm signals and includes recommendations in clauses 30.2i) and j) for: • a check that the number of unwanted fire alarm signals during the previous 12 months is recorded, and • a preliminary investigation is performed if there have been more than two unwanted fire alarm signals in the previous 12 months.

Clause 45: Inspection and servicing Additional recommendations have been added in clause 45 with regard to measuring the battery voltage (45.3d)); testing of multi-sensor fire detectors (45.4j)); the use of different types of devices when carrying out system tests (45.4o)); suitable zone plan having been provided (45.4q)); and video fire detectors have been subjected to manufacturer’s guidance with regard to relevant maintenance and testing regime(s).

Annex E: The selection and application of fire detectors Annex E is a new informative annex giving guidance on the selection and erection of fire detectors. Figure E.1 is a helpful flow chart aiding the reader with the choices that are available and relevant.

Clause 25: Power supplies Clause 25.2c) no longer requires the installation of a means of double-pole isolation, and states that reference should be made to BS 7671 to determine the suitability of a device to provide isolation. Furthermore, Note 2 to this clause reminds readers of the requirements for safe isolation detailed in the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

Because of this new emphasis, readers are reminded of the need to be adequately trained in carrying out safe isolation.

Annex F The informative annex F found in the 2013 version of BS 5839-1 has now been deleted as the data listed exists in the referenced code: LPS CoP 0001.

The new Annex F is the model format for a system logbook5.

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T E C HN I CAL

Co-ordination and selectivity for Residual Current Devices O B JE C TIVE

The aim of this article is to investigate co-ordination of, and selectivity between, two or more Residual Current Devices (RCDs) in series with each other.

This article follows on from articles published in Issues 202 and 203 of Connections that summarised the associated terminology, and the methodology used, when looking at selectivity and co-ordination between various types of overcurrent protective device.

This article refers to regulations that appear in the draft for public comment (DPC) of BS 7671: 2018, which may be amended by the final version to be issued in July 2018.

Introduction RCDs operate at any value of residual current in excess of 50 % of their rated residual current.

For example, a 30 mA RCD will not operate at a residual current of 15 mA but will operate at a value not exceeding 30 mA. Regulation 531.3.2 of BS 7671: 2018 requires measures to be taken to minimise the likelihood of unwanted tripping of RCDs within an installation, consideration being given to the following: • Subdividing circuits such that any protective conductor current likely to occur during normal operation of the connected load will not cause unwanted tripping.

• Ensuring that the accumulated protective conductor current and/or earth leakage current downstream of an RCD does not exceed 30 % of its rated residual operating current.

• Using short time-delayed RCDs subject to the applicable requirements of Chapter 41 being met.

• Co-ordinating between general type RCDs, selective type RCDs and time-delayed RCDs. • Co-ordinating RCDs with surge protective devices (SPDs).

General requirements Where selectivity is required, verification of the chosen design should be made by either: • a desk study, taking into account the relevant product standard and the manufacturer’s literature, or • the use of appropriate software with reference to manufacturers’ data specific to this use, or • testing in accordance with the applicable product standard, or • a manufacturer’s declaration of compliance.

Typically, manufacturers will provide information specifying selectivity between RCDs (536.4.1.4).

Selectivity with respect to residual currents In order to comply with the requirements of Regulation 314.1 to minimise inconvenience in the event of a fault, and to reduce the possibility of unwanted tripping of RCDs due to protective conductor (PE) currents, only the RCD nearest to, but upstream of, a source of protective current – whatever its cause – should operate.

Where RCDs are connected in series, as shown in Fig 1, selectivity will be achieved where: • the upstream RCD is of selective type Fig 1 RCDs in series

Fault

Supply end

Type S or timedelayed RCD

RCD

Load end

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Fig 2 Symbol denoting that an RCD incorporates a time-delay for selectivity purposes

Fig 3 Identification of the time-delay setting on a CBR

(LOGO) CP 284U 176159 4 100 A

S I∆ 0,3A

LOGO

S

TEST 0 - OFF

Earth fault indicator

RCC8 230 V ~ Im 1500 A IEC 1008-1

0.3

1

3

0.1 0.03 On

25 % I∆n

10

50 % I∆n

I∆n (A) 0.15 0.06 Inst

0.3

0.5 1

RESET

TEST ∆t (s)

(Type S1 or time-delayed type2 with appropriate time delay setting), and • the ratio between the rated residual operating current (I∆n) of the upstream RCD and the downstream RCD is at least 3:1.

For RCDs having an adjustable rated residual operating current and time delay, such as circuit-breakers incorporating residual current protection (CBRs), manufacturer’s instructions relating to selectivity should be taken into consideration (536.4.1.4).

Both Type S residual current circuit-breakers (RCCBs) to the BS EN 61008 series and residual current operated circuit-breakers with integral overcurrent protection (RCBOs) to the BS EN 61009 series incorporating a time-delay for selectivity purposes must be marked with the symbol shown in Fig 2, in a position that is visible

1 Type S RCDs are covered by the BS EN 61008 series (RCCBs) and BS EN 61009 (RCBOs) 2 Circuit-breakers incorporating residual current protection (CBRs) are covered by BS EN 60947-2: 2006 3 Such modular devices may be fitted to, or mounted in a position remote from, their associated circuit-breaker

Fig 4 Selectivity between an upstream overcurrent protective device and an RCBO

Selectivity between an upstream overcurrent protective device and an RCD

Fault

OCPD

Supply end

RCBO

Load end

Fig 5 Selectivity between an upstream RCD and an overcurrent protective device Fault

Supply end

Type S or timedelayed RCD

RCBO

when the device is installed in a distribution board (See Clause 6Z2 of both standards): For circuit-breakers incorporating residual current protection (CBRs), having a time-delay facility, Clause B5 in Annex B of BS EN 60947-2: 2006 states that they must be marked, in a position that remains visible after installation, with either: • the symbol ∆t adjacent to the indication of the set value of limiting non-actuating time at 2 I∆n, as shown in Fig 3, or • where the limiting non-actuating time is 0.06 s, the S in a square symbol used for RCCBs and RCBOs. Annex M of BS EN 60947 requires marking identical to that for CBRs to be applied to modular residual current devices (without integral current breaking device) designed for use with circuit-breakers covered by that standard3.

Load end

In the event of an earth fault occurring, the resultant current may exceed the instantaneous tripping current of an overcurrent protective device (OCPD) upstream of an RCD causing the upstream device to operate first. This situation is more likely for devices having low rated currents (In) and, in the case of circuit-breakers, having a Type B time/current characteristic.

In such cases, where selectivity between an upstream OCPD and a downstream RCD is required, the downstream device should be an RCBO or CBR and the requirements for selectivity according to Regulation to 536.4.1.5.1, as

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Fig 6 ‘Split board’ arrangement that offers partial selectivity in the event of earth fault – For installations forming part of a TN system or TT system

TN system

TT system

Shower Immersion heater

30 mA RCCB

30 mA RCCB

Socker-outlet cct 2 1st floor lights S-type 100 mA RCCB Main Switch

DP main switch

Garage Cooker

30 mA RCCB

Socker-outlet cct 1 30 mA RCCB

Ground floor lights

Non-RCD protected way where required Cct way not protected by the 30 mA RCD (where required)

downstream OCPD causing the upstream RCD to operate first.

In such cases, where selectivity between an upstream RCD and a downstream OCPD is required, the downstream device should be an RCBO and the requirements for selectivity according to Regulation 536.4.1.4, as described earlier in this article should be applied (see 536.4.1.6). Where such an arrangement is installed, the upstream RCD will need to be a Type S or time-delay type as described earlier in this article.

Fig 7 Consumer unit arrangement that offers total selectivity between final circuits in the event of earth fault

RCBO protected ways Main Switch

(Circuit-breaker or fuse may be installed for any circuit where RCD protection would be inappropriate)

described in Issue 203 of Connections, should be applied (see Fig 4).

Selectivity between an RCD and a downstream overcurrent protective device In the event of an earth fault occurring, the resultant current may be lower than the instantaneous tripping current of the

Total selectivity is not always required It should be borne in mind that such selectivity between upstream and downstream devices is not essential in all cases. Partial selectivity between devices is acceptable where this does not adversely affect the safety of the installation (see 536.3).

To clarify using the example of installations in typical domestic premises, it is acceptable to ‘split’ the circuits connected to a consumer unit over, say, two RCDs; each of which protects a number of final circuits (see Fig 6). It should of course be understood by the designer, and made clear to the customer that operation of one of the RCDs in such a ‘split board’ arrangement would cause the loss of all circuits downstream of it.

Where total selectivity was necessary, or requested by the client, all final circuits could be protected by individual RCBOs as shown in Fig 7.

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T E C HN I CA L

The Construction Products Regulation O B JE C TIVE

Many products used in construction works carried out within Europe (EU), including cables used in fixed installations, are now required to comply with the Construction Products Regulation (CPR). The aim of this article is to summarise the main requirements of the CPR, which replaced the Construction Product Directive (CPD) in 2013.

System of harmonised technical specifications

The safety performance of construction works must not be compromised by the products installed. Therefore, irrespective of where construction products such as, for example, cable, conduit, luminaires and smoke detectors are sourced, they must satisfy the minimum technical performance requirements applicable for the particular country of installation.

Modern technology provides the benefit of easy access to a broad selection of products from a range of EU countries, and elsewhere. However, where differences exist in the technical standards, testing and labelling used by the manufacturers of such products it can prove difficult and time-consuming to compare similar products and make an informed selection that also achieves compliance with the minimum performance

The systems of assessment and ‘essential characteristics’ applicable to a product, or a family of products are established by the technical committees of CEN and CENELEC and set out in Annex ZA of the Harmonised European Norms (hENs).

For a product covered by a hEN, the harmonised standard outlines the criteria and methods that the manufacturer must apply to assess the performance of the product in relation to the characteristics relevant to its particular use. As shown in Fig 1, if a product is not covered by a hEN, the manufacturer would need to obtain a European Technical Assessment (ETA) in order to be permitted to apply CE marking.

The type and level of assessment required for a particular product is dependent on its use. For example, tests may need to be performed to assess the product’s ability to resist fire, water penetration or impact, and for some products, particularly safety products, the testing may need to be performed by a Notified Body, appointed by the national authorities.

The Assessment and Verification of Constancy of Performance (AVCP) sets out the route to conformity and defines the degree of involvement of third parties in assessing the conformity of a particular product.

When the CPR was introduced in July 2013, cables used in construction work were not covered by a harmonised standard, but this has since been addressed by the introduction of BS EN 505751. As a result, cables within the scope of this standard that are used in fixed installations within the EU must have a declaration of performance (DoP) for Reaction to Fire.

The CPR does NOT apply to cable assemblies (cables manufactured with a termination on

Fig 1 Summary of the key elements of the CPR

hEN Establish the route to conformity For a product not covered by a hEN

DoP Compile declaration of performance

requirements of national building regulations or similar.

For the purposes of standardisation, the CPR requires the technical performance of products marketed in the EU to be assessed and labelled using common methods and all the details relevant to the particular use of the product or kit to be made available. This article reviews the process and main requirements of the CPR, summarised in Fig 1.

ETA European Technical Assesment may be used

CE Product can now be legally sold in the EU

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one or both ends), and it currently does not apply to cables with a declared fire resistance (circuit integrity).

Note: The essential characteristics are based on the seven ‘Basic Requirements for Construction Works’ identified in Annex 1 of the CPR.

The Declaration of Performance (DoP) For a product covered by a hEN, the manufacturer has a legal obligation2 to compile and make available to purchasers a ‘Declaration of Performance’ (DoP). This is the manufacturer’s declaration that the characteristics and performance of the product will meet the technical performance specification of the harmonised standard, on condition that the product is correctly installed. In view of this, it is essential that the all the relevant safety and installation information is provided so that products can be installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Although manufacturers were responsible for providing such documentation under the CPD, generally their products were placed into a supply chain so they were unaware whether, or not, the end user received all the information required. Consequently, as well as placing obligations on manufacturers the CPR also places duties on importers and distributors.

In particular, they are required to check that the correct information is supplied by the manufacturer, and take corrective action when products do not conform to the DoP, such as withdrawing or recalling products and informing the relevant enforcing authority of safety risks3.

Where an importer or distributor modifies a product or markets it under their own name or trademark they become subject to the same requirements as for a manufacturer.

The performance details of the product may be expressed by description, level or class and for any characteristic that is not assessed, the manufacturer should record ‘No Performance Determined’ (NPD). The documentation may be supplied in a paper or a digital format and cannot be changed after it has been issued. If a change occurs to the harmonised standard which alters the declared performance of a product, a new version of the DoP must be issued and stored alongside the original version. Technical documentation, Declarations of Performance and the CE marking information must be retained for a period of 10 years.

CE (European Conformity) marking CE marking was introduced under the CPD, but in some countries, including the UK, the application of CE marking was interpreted as being voluntary rather than mandatory. This has since been

Identification number of the product certification body

Name and the registered address of the manufacturer, or identifying mark Last 2 digits of the year in which the marking was first affixed Reference number of the DoP

Number of European standard applied Unique identification code for the product-type Intended use of the product as laid down in the European standard applied Class of performance

Fig 2 CE (European Conformity) marking

(a)

clarified by the CPR, and it is now a mandatory requirement for the manufacturer of a product covered by a hEN4 to provide CE marking. As shown in Fig 2, CE marking consists of more than a logo; it is a summary of the information contained in the DoP, including details of the product and manufacturer and identification of the standard and the levels of classes of performance being declared.

The CE logo is used to identify that the product is consistent with its DoP and must be placed visibly and legibly on the product or, if not possible due to the nature of the product, be affixed to the packaging and the accompanying document. The construction of the CE symbol is derived from circles as shown in Fig 3a and these proportions must be maintained if the logo is reduced or enlarged. While other marks (voluntary) are also permitted, the CE symbol is the only mark permitted to be used to show compliance with the CPR. Therefore, marks that may cause confusion with the CE mark such as the one shown in Fig 3b are prohibited.

Euroclasses

✓ (b)

✗ Fig 3 CE marking (European Conformity)

1 BS EN 50575: 2014 + A1: 2016 – Power, control and communication cables – Cables for general applications in construction works subject to reaction to fire requirements.

2 A derogation may apply to a particular product in specific circumstances, such as a product used in a heritage or conservation project, making it exempt from the requirements of the CPR. 3 In the UK the enforcing authority is ‘Trading Standards’.

4 If a product is not covered by a hEN the manufacturer may apply for a European Technical Assessment (ETA) which on successful completion would, as shown in Fig 1, allow the product to be CE marked.

As part of the CE marking criteria, reaction to fire (which relates to how a cable will perform during the early stages of fire) must be declared for cables within the scope of standard BS EN 50575, such as power, control, communication and optical fibre cables. To achieve compliance with the CPR, cable manufacturers must use Euroclasses as the common method for providing the performance details.

An article on the cable Euroclasses and their applications may be covered in a future edition of Connections.

Summary The CPR does not harmonise building regulations or specify performance classes for construction product; such matters are the individual responsibilities of EU countries. The aim of the CPR is to remove barriers to trade by ensuring that products designed for the same purposes are assessed by common methods, and the performance details are provided in a standard format.

For these purposes, the CPR clarified the roles and obligations of all those involved in the product supply chain, manufacturers, importers and distributors, and made both the provision of a Declaration of Performance (DoP) and CE marking mandatory requirements.

Nevertheless, it remains the responsibility of designers, specifiers and contractors to ensure that products used in construction works satisfy the relevant national regulatory requirements.

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T E C HN I CAL

Arc Fault Detection Devices O B JE C TIVE

In the draft for public comment (DPC) version of the 18th Edition, reference is made to Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) under Regulation 421.7 under Section 421: Protection against fire caused by electrical equipment. The aim of this article is to introduce what an arc fault detection device is, what type of faults it is designed to detect, how it might be able to reduce electrical fires and the type of locations it is recommended for.

This article refers to regulations that appear in the DPC of BS 7671: 2018, which may be amended by the final version to be issued in July 2018.

Introduction

are a supplementary device that are designed to differentiate between the types of arcing that occurs normally within an installation such as that produced during switching, and those dangerous electric arcs generated under fault conditions.

Typically, AFDDs are available in three formats: a) consisting of an arc fault detection unit (AFD unit) designed for being mechanically assembled on site in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions to one or more declared protective device(s) such as a circuit-breaker, RCBO or RCCB as shown in Fig 2a, The manufacturer shall declare which types of AFD units and protective device(s) are suitable to be assembled together, or b) as one single device, comprising an AFD unit integrated with a protective device such as a circuit-breaker, RCBO or RCCB as shown in Fig 2b, or

Fig 1 Severe overheating caused by a loose connection on a line conductor

BS 7671 contains the rules for the design and erection of electrical installations so as to provide for safety and proper functioning for the intended use.

However, loose connections, stress and strain on cables or cable penetrations by foreign objects do occur and the outcome is often hazardous. Fig 1 shows the effect on a conductor caused by a loose connection. This amount of damage and obvious fire risk may have been prevented by the installation of an Arc Fault Detection Device (AFDD).

Note: AFDDs will detect arcing within terminations but will not detect high resistance connections which lead to overheating.

What is an arc fault detection device?

AFDDs are designed specifically to provide protection against arc faults, and are not a replacement for overcurrent protective devices or Residual Current Devices (RCDs). AFDDs 54 W I NT E R 2 017- 18

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Fig 2b AFD unit integrated with a protective device

Fig 2a AFD unit designed for being mechanically assembled on site

Fig 2c ‘Standalone’ device comprising an AFD unit and opening means

Each AFDD is designed to protect one circuit only or one item of current using equipment.

They are not designed to be placed immediately after the main switch for full installation arc fault protection (Regulation 532.6 refers).

Type of arc faults Fig 3 shows two types of arc faults – series and parallel. The top illustration indicates a series arc resulting from a break in a conductor with the middle and bottom illustrations showing the path a parallel arc can take.

LOGO

40 A 230 V

In 25A Un 230V~ 50Hz Im 630A IEC62606 -25

606 N 62 BS E

N BS E

O-O O OFF FF

6 6260

c) as a ‘standalone’ device comprising an AFD unit and opening means; as shown in Fig 2c. Standalone AFDDs must be connected in series with an appropriate overcurrent protective device as declared by the AFDD manufacturer such as a circuit breaker, RCBO or fuse.

Fig 3 Cable faults leading to series and parallel arcing

L N

L

N

L

E N

Action during arcing When an arc develops, which can only happen if the gap between the conductors is very small, the surrounding conductor insulation heats and starts to carbonise. As the insulation carbonises, hydrocarbon vapours are released that allow the conduction of current more readily than the air/metal interface. This further supports the process of arcing until a chain reaction develops when ultimately the insulation combusts. Tests carried out on conductors indicate that arcing faults can generate temperatures in excess of 1 000 °C with as little as 1 A of current flowing.

That level of current is too low to cause say, the 16 A circuit-breaker of Fig 4 to operate.

This will be considered in more detail further in the article. Furthermore, a series arc fault or a parallel L-N arc fault would not cause an RCD to trip.

With either series or parallel arc faults, the current flowing may not always be sufficient to operate, or be detected by, the circuit protective device. Indeed, for a series arc fault, the arc current cannot exceed the load current (ILoad = IArc), and is therefore within the range of the rated current of the fuse or circuit-breaker. Fig 41 shows the time/current characteristic curves for a B16 circuit-breaker to BS EN 60898.

Considering Fig 4, a series arc fault can have a current value significantly lower than the rating of the circuit-breaker. In such circumstances the use of an AFDD would ‘sense’ inappropriate arcing before there was a risk of fire and before the circuit-breaker would operate. It is likely that the 18th Edition of BS 7671 will recommend the use of AFDDs for locations that pose a significant fire risk such as for heritage buildings, sleeping accommodation, museums or where there are large concentrations of the general public, but not medical locations.

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supply to the load. Where the AFDD detects a random non-predictable waveform in contrast to say, the regular effect of poor commutation from a drill or inductive switching, the AFDD will trip.

Fig 4 Time/current characteristics of a typical 16 A circuit-breaker to BS EN 60898

Limitations of AFDDs

10 000

B16 circuit-breaker to BS EN 60898

Time (s)

1 000 100 10

Above 5 In the circuit-breaker is expected to operate within 0.1 s.

An AFDD may also operate.

AFDD suited for protection against series arc faults in this region

1 0.1 0.01

An AFDD will not detect a series arc fault in one ‘leg’ of a ring final circuit because of the dual path the load current takes – that is, if a series break were to exist in the ring final circuit the current would flow down the ‘good’ leg not permitting arcing to exist. However, an AFDD will detect a series or parallel arc fault on spurs connected to a ring final circuit An AFDD will detect series or parallel arcing in leads or cord sets of equipment/appliances plugged into the ring final circuit.

0.001 0.1

1

3 In

5 In

10

100

Multiple of rated current (In)

The characteristics of a parallel arc fault differ from that of a series arc fault in as much as the level of fault current is not constrained by the load impedance but by the impedance of the circuit cables, any connecting leads of appliances depending upon the location of the fault, and the impedance of the arc fault itself. The level of current expected in the early stages of a parallel arc fault, such as with a Line-Line condition, will not result in a timely operation of the protective device, whether it is a circuit-breaker or a fuse.

It could take some time for the fault to fully develop whereby the conductor’s insulation degrades sufficiently for a level of short-circuit or earth-fault current to operate the overcurrent device. In such circumstances an AFDD will operate before the overcurrent device.

If the parallel arc fault was instead Line-Earth, then it would be expected that an RCBO or RCCB would operate before an AFDD. This is due to the lower current limit at which an AFDD is generally able to detect and protect against arc faults being equal to or greater than about 2.5 A (see manufacturers’ data sheets).

1 Use Fig 3A4 of Appendix 3 of BS 7671 for more accuracy

Testing AFDDs are provided with: • a manual test button. When tested manually, the AFDD should trip, and/or • an automatic test function that checks the arc detection circuit. The automatic test function consists of a test at switch-on and at intervals not exceeding at least once a day. During this automatic testing, the AFDD does not trip unless a malfunction is detected. In case a malfunction is detected the AFDD will trip and indicate a malfunction.

AFDDs integrated with an RCCB or RCBO will at least include a test button for the RCD element of the device.

To date no testers are available for installed testing.

Summary AFDDs are an additional form of protection specifically designed to detect series and parallel arc faults.

AFDDs will need to be used in conjunction with an appropriate overcurrent protective device.

Depending upon design parameters, an AFDD can: be mechanically assembled on site with a particular protective device, be integrated with a protective device in one unit or be a standalone unit.

The AFDD provides arc fault protection not only for final circuit conductors but also the leads or cord sets of equipment/appliances.

Should an AFDD trip due to an arc fault, it may be necessary to verify that the final circuit conductors and any cables/equipment/ appliances supplied by the AFDD have not experienced any thermal damage and that they remain fit for service.

Potential ‘nuisance tripping’ of an AFDD If nuisance tripping of AFDDs is to be avoided, they must be able to differentiate between arcing generated in normal service such as from power tools and light switches, and potentially hazardous arc faults. This is achieved by the AFDD constantly monitoring and analysing voltage and current waveform patterns in the 56 W I NT E R 2 017- 18

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T E C HN I CA L

• Band II – installations which contain the voltages for supplies to household and most commercial and industrial installations, such as low voltage circuits for power and lighting. Low voltage is defined as a voltage exceeding extralow voltage but not exceeding 1000 V AC or 1500 V DC between conductors (or 600 V AC or 900 V DC between conductors and Earth).

Apprentice Corner

Requirements of Regulation 528.1

The focus of Apprentice Corner in this issue of Connections is the installation of Voltage band I and band II circuits. Electrical installation work, particularly in commercial and industrial premises, can often include a range of circuits having different voltages. This article will consider the requirements of BS 7671 for circuit segregation with the aid of a scenario.

Voltage bands In Part 2 of BS 7671, the voltage bands are described as: • Band I – installations which typically cover circuits such as telecommunications, alarm installations, extra-low voltage and voice and data systems. Extra-low voltage is defined as a voltage not exceeding 50 V AC or 120 V ripple-free DC (whether between conductors or to Earth).

Fig 1a A mixture of Band I and Band II circuits contained within the same enclosure

1 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings – Part 1: Code of practice for design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of systems in non-domestic premises.

2 Emergency lighting – Part 1: Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises.

Unless the segregation requirements of Regulation 528.1 are satisfied, circuits of voltage band I and voltage band II should not be contained within the same wiring system as a circuit exceeding low voltage. Furthermore, a Band I circuit should not be contained with the same wiring system as a Band II circuit (refer to Fig 1).

To minimise the potential for electromagnetic interference between conductors of differing voltage levels, one of the following measures should be applied: • Every cable or conductor should be insulated for the highest voltage present • Where a multicore cable contains circuits at different voltage levels, all conductors should be insulated for the highest voltage carried by a core within the cable • The cores of a Band I circuit are separated from the cores of a Band II circuit by an earthed metal screen of equivalent current-carrying capacity to that of the largest core of a Band II circuit.

Fig 2 shows a composite multicore cable combining different types of signals in the one cable. The cable shown is made up of twisted

Fig 1b One approved arrangement using two separate boxes to house Band I and Band II connections

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pairs for data, screened cores for control functions and low voltage cores for mains power.

• Conductors insulated for their system voltage are installed in a separate compartment of a cable ducting or cable trunking system, see Fig 3; for example where twisted pair cables supply telecommunications equipment and single insulated cables to BS 6004 supply low voltage circuits, such as socket-outlets.

• Cables of each voltage level are installed in separate conduit, trunking or ducting systems.

Regulation 560.7.7 permits metallic screened fire-resistant cables, such as MI and the like, to be run with the cables of other circuits. However, Clause 26.2 of BS 5839-11: 2017 and Clause 8.2.6 of BS 5266-12: 2016 state that to avoid the risk of mechanical damage to fire alarm or emergency lighting cables, they should not be installed within the same conduit or trunking as the cables of other services. The recommendations of BS 5839-1 and BS 5266-1 would typically take precedence over BS 7671 where reference is made to fire alarm and emergency lighting system recommendations.

It is normally found that cabling for fire alarm, security and emergency lighting systems is better placed in its own wiring systems as the cable routes required by these services may be significantly different to those of the general installation wiring.

Fig 2 Composite multicore cable

Fig 3 Segregation of circuits using multi-compartment trunking

Multi-compartment trunking Band II circuits

Band I circuits

Data and ELV circuits LV circuits

Fire alarm or emergency

Band I circuits may be added to Band II circuits if every conductor

Fig 4 Layout diagram of the arrangement in the wet room IP45 Transformer

Scenario Your company has been asked to design the installation of an automatic water drainage pump in a wet room. The pump is to be used in conjunction with an electric shower. The cabling for the water flow sensor which operates the waste water pump is pre-wired into the shower unit. The waste water pump is a sealed unit with the 230 V (mains supply) cable being pre-wired.

The 230 V to 12 V transformer also provides the control functions for the pump.

To aid the installation, the client has produced a layout diagram (see Fig 4) showing the arrangement of the pump, shower and supply positions for the 230 V and 12 V circuits.

Contractor’s considerations 1. Is the shower unit the client has selected appropriate for the user, for example by those who may have limited mobility?

2. As both the shower and pump are pre-wired with relatively short lengths of cable, it will be necessary to use junction boxes for the water flow sensor and the mains connections in the wet room. Ones having suitable IP rating will be required.

3. Additional protection using an RCD or an RCBO will need to be installed.

Supply Existing shower unit

Sensor cable (12 V)

Flow sensor switch

Sensor cable

Pump supply (230 V)

Surface mounted connection box

Pump supply

Cold water feed

4. Whether the position of the junction boxes will need to be accessible for testing and maintenance purposes.

5. Whether a local means of isolation will be needed for the waste water pump.

6. Both the general requirements of Parts 1 to 6 of BS 7671 will apply as will Section 701.

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T E C HN I CAL

The answers to the questions below are given on page 65 of this issue, along with some additional explanations where necessary.

Area Engineer / Daniel Smith How did you become an area engineer?

I was recommended to Certsure by an area engineer. It was the best decision I have ever made; I am a self-confessed engineering geek.

Multiple-choice questions 1. What is the minimum IP rating required for the junction boxes mounted in the wet room? a) IPX7 b) IP2X c) IP4X d) IPX4 2. What is the minimum distance from the shower water outlet the junction boxes can be mounted? a) 1.2 m b) 3.0 m c) 0.60 m d) 2.25 m 3. Which of the following would not be classed as Voltage band I? a) The 12 V sensor circuit b) Data cabling c) The 230 V pump circuit d) Signalling circuitry

How has the job changed in that time?

Having only been in the job a year, I can’t really say it has changed dramatically. However, what I have done is made this job my own, developing my own style of assessment that is informative and uplifting, and places the contractor at ease.

Daniel Smith, Essex and Hertfordshire NICEIC and ELECSA employ 80 field team staff across the country to assess contractors’ work and provide up-to-date technical advice. Here we turn the tables and put them in the spotlight

What are some of the biggest changes within the industry?

The advance of technology. This includes the changes in residual current devices and new equipment such as arc fault detection devices.

What’s the strangest thing you have come across on an assessment?

Seeing a pet snake moving across the kitchen floor.

What’s the strangest request you've had?

To drive a contractor’s brand-new Harley Davidson motorbike to site. Much as I would have loved to, I didn’t think it was wise.

4. Voltage band II relates to which of the following? a) Separated extra-low voltage b) Protective extra-low voltage c) Extra-low voltage d) Low voltage

What interesting jobs have your contractors been involved with?

I have seen the refurbishment works at Westminster Abbey, Flat L at 57 Green Street where the Beatles once resided, the Emirates Stadium and Harrods.

5. Where circuits of Voltage band I and II are to be run together in a trunking, which of the following is not permitted? a) All cables are insulated to Band I b) All cables are insulated to Band II c) All cables are insulated as for the highest voltage present d) The cables are installed in a separate compartment within the trunking

What are your interests outside work?

I like to cycle (in the warmer months) and enter charity events such as the London to Southend or the Essex 100.

6. What is the reason for the segregation of different voltage bands and safety circuits? a) To keep the different circuits conductors together to aid identification during testing b) To enable a cost saving to be made on conductor insulation for the different voltage bands c) To minimise the risk of a voltage being induced which might cause a false signal appearing d) To minimise the risk of thermally overloading the conductors of Band I circuits

Favourite book, film and TV programme?

My favourite books are all based around electrical and mechanical engineering. My favourite films are Anchorman and Kill Bill, and my favourite TV programmes include Game of Thrones and Luther.

If you had a day off tomorrow, what would you do?

If it was warm, I’d have a cycle, do some shopping and then prepare something nice for dinner.

What’s the best bit of advice you have received in your career?

I have a saying: “We shouldn’t work to BS 7671 but from BS 7671.” BS 7671 should be the minimum standard that we want to achieve, so I always encourage the use of best practices. It’s your name on the certification representing your company.

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T E C HN I CAL

Snags & Solutions A practical guide to everyday electrical problems Now updated to Amendment No 3 of BS 7671 ‘Snags & Solutions’, NICEIC’s problem solving books, are now available in five parts, and cover many commonly encountered electrical installation problems. All parts have been updated, where appropriate, to take account of the requirements of Amendment No 3 to BS 7671: 2008 ( 17th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations), which was published on 1st January 2015.

Part 1 of Snags & Solutions addresses 53 problems relating to earthing and bonding. Part 2 covers 55 problems relating to wiring systems. Part 3 covers 52 problems relating to inspection and testing. Parts 4 and 5, which have recently been introduced, cover 50 problems relating emergency lighting and 48 problems relating to fire detection and alarm systems, respectively.

The books are available from NICEIC Direct.

To give an indication of the value of these books, a snag and solution is being covered in each issue of Connections.

This issue addresses a snag from Part 2 – Wiring Systems, relating to the condensation in steel conduit systems.

snags and solutions

snags and solutions

snags and solutions

A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EVERYDAY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS

A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EVERYDAY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS

A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EVERYDAY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS

Condensation in steel conduit systems Drainage points may be needed in steel conduit systems.

snags and solutions

snags snags and and solutions solutions

Emergency Lighting

Fire Detection and Alarm Systems

A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EVERYDAY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS

Part 1

earthing and bonding 5th Edition

Amd 3: 2015

A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EVERYDAY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EVERYDAY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS

Part 2

wiring systems

3rd Edition

3rd Edition

4th Edition

Amd 3: 2015

Amd 3: 2015

to BS 5266 series BS 5266-1: 3rd Edition 2016

Amd 3: 2015

Updated to BS 5839-1 2017 3rd Edition

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Snag 22 Internal corrosion can occur even in nominally dry situations, causing rapid deterioration and seriously affecting the function of the conduit as a protective conductor and as a means of mechanical protection.

Damp can affect steel conduit systems internally and externally and there are certain aspects of corrosion prevention which are sometimes overlooked.

Apprentice Corner answers 1.

Correct option is (d) Regulation 701.512.2 recommends a minimum rating of IPX4 for installed equipment in zone 1.

2. Correct option is (a)

Solution

As there is no shower basin

To deal with this problem the Regulations require the provision of drainage points for condensed moisture in conduit systems not intended to be gas-tight (Regulations 522.3.1 and 522.3.2 refer).

Suitable drainage outlets are often provided by drilling 5 mm diameter holes at the lowest point in the underside of drawin boxes, switch boxes, enclosed luminaires etc. Not only will this normally permit the condensation to run out of the conduit system, but it will also usually allow circulation of air within the conduit, to permit drying out.

Conduit runs most susceptible to internal condensation are those subject to rapid temperature fluctuations, but it is good practice to provide suitable ventilation for all conduit systems whatever their location except for gas-tight or flameproof installations where no ventilation is permitted.

present within the wet room, zone 2 no longer applies and is replaced with an extended zone 1. Therefore, the termination boxes should be located at least 1.2 m from the water outlet.

Regulation 701.32.3 (ii) (b) refers.

3. Correct option is (c) 4. Correct option is (d) See Part 2 Definitions: Voltage bands and Voltage, nominal. Options (a) to (c) all operate at a voltage not exceeding 50 V AC or 120 V ripple-free DC, whether between conductors or to Earth. Whereas option (d) operates at a voltage exceeding low-voltage but not exceeding 1000 V AC or 1500 V DC between conductors, or 600 V AC or 900 V DC between conductors and Earth.

5. Correct option is (a) See Regulation 528.1 parts (i) and (iii)

6. Correct option is (c) To avoid risk of mechanical damage and to avoid any possibility of electrical inference creating noise and unwanted signals on data cables and the like, segregation between voltages of Bands I and II and between safety circuits must take place.

Regulation 522.3.1 wiring systems liable to frequent splashing, immersion or submersion.

A wiring system shall be selected and erected so that no damage is caused by condensation or ingress of water during installation, use and maintenance. The completed wiring system shall comply with the IP degree of protection relevant to the particular location.

Note: Special considerations apply to

Regulation 522.3.2 Where water may collect or condensation may form in a wiring system, provision shall be made for its escape.

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Ideal The Ideal FT-45 Feed-Thru modular plugs and crimp tool are now available in Europe, to make assembly and termination of Cat 5e and Cat 6 modular plugs simpler and more successful. These ‘next-generation’ plugs and crimp tool offer a new take on the traditional, time-consuming RJ45 assembly and crimping process.

The FT-45 plugs are single-piece connectors, removing the need to assemble a three-piece connector, even when working with Cat 6 cable. This makes terminations faster and more consistent, and makes the process for working with Cat 5e and Cat 6 identical. www.idealindustries.net / 01925 444446

Loxone Loxone is a flexible, convenient, 360° smart home solution for lighting, heating, security, AV, blinds and intelligent energy management. We offer a dedicated installer program with training courses, free technical support, a dedicated project consulting and demonstration service, free software and apps, and much more. As a Loxone installation partner you’ll be able to offer your customers a complete home automation solution that is feature-rich and future-proof. Loxone also runs regular free information sessions for companies interested in joining the Loxone Partner Program. www.loxone.com/become-partner / 01183 130140

Wiska With 99 years of experience in cable management, Wiska is an expert in cable entries and protection. Its range includes the iconic Sprint system, comprising polyamide, brass and stainless-steel cable glands that offer a solution for any type of cable. Thanks to the unique design and variety of product accessories, Wiska can offer superior cable gland flexibility, as well as such features as a wide clamping range (e.g. M20 clamping range 6.2mm to 14mm), various insert options (flat cable, multiple cable insert combinations and reduction inserts), EMC inserts options, IP68 protection, fast installation, halogen-free/LSF and vibration proof. www.wiska.co.uk / 01208 816062

Cable Drum Jacks Cable Drum Jacks offer a range of products, including: manual screw-type cable drum jacks from 3t to 8t, coming on their own as a pair or with spindle bar; hydraulic range from 3t up to 30t; small cable dispensers and cable drum stands; SWA cable rollers, narrow, heavy duty, triple corner, manhole and lead rollers; Cobra and Duct rods from 4mm up to 11mm offered in lengths from 100m to 500m; electric cable pullers; and cable trailers. We offer 95 per cent ex stock availablity on a next-day service (UK mainland only) and you can ask technical questions via phone or email. www.cabledrumjacks.co.uk / 0800 988 0112

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O F F T HE T O O L S

What’s your typical day?

When I’m in training camp for a fight, I get up about 5.30am and I’ll either do a run or a weightlifting session in the gym before work. I start work at 8am and finish at 5pm, then I go to the gym for another hour and a half and then back home. That’s my life for six weeks leading up to a fight.

How does it work financially?

German formwork company MEVA sponsor me and look after my medical bills. A couple of local gyms also sponsor me, which means I don’t have to pay for a gym membership, so it all helps.

How does it fit in with the day job?

Sometimes when I’m trying to make the weight for a fight it’s hard work. But I love what I do at work and I try and separate the two. Work is the main priority as I have a young family to support.

Tommy Carter has notched up six professional fights to date

Work hard, play hard

IMAGES: KAREN PRIESTLEY/SHUTTERSTOCK

When Tommy Carter isn’t working for Derbyshire-based Stanway & Hallows Electrical, there’s a good chance the professional boxer will be training for his next fight How did you get into boxing?

When I was about 10, I wanted to be able to stick up for myself. My dad took me to a boxing club and it went from there. Now I’m a professional and I’m managed by Matthew Hatton, Ricky Hatton’s brother. My dad actually trains me and Matthew is my co-coach and manager.

How much time does that take up?

Quite a lot! It’s on the back burner at the moment because I’ve got a baby, but it

usually involves training before and after work five or six days a week.

When and how did you turn professional?

I turned professional in 2016. You have to be an established amateur first, a bit like an electrician needing to have the experience to go on-site!

How supportive is the business of your boxing?

My boss is brilliant about it. All the lads come to my fights as well.

What kind of work does the business undertake?

It’s mainly commercial and domestic work, so anything from rewiring a house to putting light fittings in. We do a lot of testing and inspection too.

What’s your proudest moment?

When I boxed Ryan Kelly it was a warm-up for a televised fight, so to be in an arena of that magnitude and fight in front of all those people was special. Even though I didn’t win, it was a real ‘wow’ moment because it was what I’d always dreamed of doing. That and winning my first professional fight!

What are your future plans?

How have you got on so far?

I’ve had six professional fights so far, but I’ve only won one. But I’ve boxed a lot of people who were more experienced. I lost my first fight by a point and won my second one, and they’ve been fairly even fights since then. I’ll be back boxing again soon.

I’m not sure I can make boxing pay as a full-time job, although if I ever got the opportunity I’d take it. If you get injured you don’t get paid, so having a family restricts you a bit. But I’ll see where it takes me.

What do you get up to in your spare time?

Email offthetools@ redactive.co.uk

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CURRENT AFFAIRS

#SPARKSLIFE We’ve been asking you to send in pictures of the jobs you are working on via social media – and you haven’t disappointed. Keep sending them in via Twitter @officialNICEIC or @officialELECSA or via Instagram using the hashtag #sparkslife.

Tickled pink for charity Evesham contractor Buzz Electrical has raised £795 for Breast Cancer Care by turning one of its vans – and its staff – pink.

The van invited people to donate to the cause if they saw it out and about in the local area, Hit the road: prompting a great response the Buzz from the public. team sport “The whole team at a daring new look Buzz have been behind our

campaign,” said Steve Owens, managing director. “The pink van captured the town’s imagination and it has been a really positive way to do our bit to raise awareness for Breast Cancer Care. We’ve been delighted by the donations and positive comments we have received.”

The firm hopes to top the £1,000 mark with a five-a-side football tournament between Buzz staff and local businesses.

This issue’s prize for the best shot, a £25 voucher, goes to Athena Electrical (@AthenaElectric).

Elly White of Kelly Electrics tackling an EV charging point installation (via Instagram)

A team shot from @AthenaElectric (via Twitter)

CERTSURE ON TOUR

EMPLOYEE ETIQUETTE Spending so much time with work colleagues means the odd fallout is perhaps inevitable. But new research suggests the biggest cause of disagreements is not over important issues such as pay or prospects but more seemingly trivial matters.

The survey by Brother found the biggest cause of arguments is people gossiping about colleagues or management, highlighted by 34 per cent of staff as an irritant.

Other gripes include people being too loud (31 per cent), messiness (27 per cent) and colleagues stealing items such as

Eagle-eyed fans of TV show The Grand Tour might have spotted a familiar sign recently.

Episode three of the second series went out on air just before Christmas and featured a racing scene filmed outside Certsure’s Dunstable offices.

The scenes were filmed in the summer of 2017 and observant viewers would have clocked the Certsure signs in various scenes.

Certsure employees formed part of the crowd that watched the racers whizz by.

Fortunately, the NICEIC van was off the road that day – although we think it may have given the cars some stiff competition!

A festive lighting display from Eco Home Electrics (via Instagram)

Some nice laser work for downlights by Lapsley Electrical (via Instagram)

stationery or cups (26 per cent).

So it seems that if you want to stay on the right side of your colleagues at work, keep your mouth closed, tidy up your mess and don’t steal their stuff ! Simple!

Larking around on ladders from @HutchinsonElec (via Twitter)

Tell us about any hidden talents or charity initiatives. Email currentaffairs@redactive.co.uk

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Tag us at...

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