P&he Journal May/June17

08

Key membership benefits

24

Track your professional development with mycareerpath®

May/June 2017

CPD

− The importance of the water trap seal

For plumbing & heating engineering professionals

20

NEW CIPHE publication, ‘Safe Water Guide: Scald Prevention and Legionella’ Page 10

www.ciphe.org.uk

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25/04/2017 14:22

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07/04/2017 10:54:14 23/03/2017 12:26

CONTENTS

CIPHE 04 08 10 10 25

Message from the CEO NEW − CIPHE member benefits CIPHE National President COVER STORY: NEW CIPHE publication, 'Safe Water Guide: Scald Prevention and Legionella' CIPHE AGM

10

REGULARS 08

Key membership benefits

24

Track your professional development with mycareerpath®

May/June 2017

CPD

− The importance of the water trap seal

20

For plumbing & heating engineering professionals

06 11 16 26 27 27

NEW CIPHE publication, ‘Safe Water Guide: Scald Prevention and Legionella’ Page 10

28 30

News smarttalk – directors’ duties techtalk – discharge from unvented hot water storage cylinders into plastic pipework Training Matters – The Government’s Industrial Strategy CIPHE External Affairs – The Bonfield Review CIPHE Industrial Associates − Training and development Branch news What’s new

www.ciphe.org.uk

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06

FEATURES 12 13 14 18 20 24

CIPHE Industrial Associates Development Group Press fitting for all applications Fitting an arthritis-friendly bathroom The copper vs plastic debate CPD − venting external drainage systems with active carbon filters NEW − Track your professional development with mycareerpath® CIPHE technical advice The email address for any technical advice is technical@ciphe.org.uk

ciphe.org.uk PUBLISHER: Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE) 64 Station Lane Hornchurch Essex RM12 6NB T: +44 (0) 1708 472791

PUBLISHING EDITOR: Juliet Loiselle Warners Group Publications T: 01778 391067 E: julietl@warnersgroup.co.uk EDITOR: Nicky Rogers Warners Group Publications T: 01778 391128 E: nickyr@warnersgroup.co.uk MULTIMEDIA ACCOUNT MANAGER: James Knight Warners Group Publications T: 01778 395029 E: jamesk@warnersgroup.co.uk PRODUCTION: Sue Ward Warners Group Publications T: 01778 392405 E: production@warnersgroup.co.uk DESIGN: Amanda Clare

www.facebook.com/ CIPHE.UK

@CIPHE www.linkedin.com/ groups?home= &gid=7467910

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HEAD OFFICE EXECUTIVE TEAM CEO: Kevin Wellman T: +44 (0) 1708 463115 E: kevinw@ciphe.org.uk HEAD OF FINANCE: Natasha Fallows T: +44 (0) 1708 463109 E: natashaf@ciphe.org.uk MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR: Tim Sainty T: +44 (0) 1708 463102 E: tims@ciphe.org.uk TECHNICAL DIRECTOR: Paul Harmer (Consultant) E: paulh@ciphe.org.uk

Please make sure we have your up-to-date email address. Send your details, including your membership number, to admin@ciphe.org.uk

SUBSCRIPTIONS: p&he is free to members of the CIPHE. Non-members – £115.00 per year (six issues). Overseas – £115.00 by surface mail or £170.00 by airmail.

READERSHIP: There are around 7,200 members of the CIPHE. The membership is made up of plumbing and heating professionals, specifiers, college lecturers, plumbing designers, manufacturers, engineers and consultants. © 2017 The Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering.

Rights of translation and reproduction are reserved.

Copyright notice No article may be reproduced in full or part without the written permission of the editor. In some instances, there may be a reproduction fee.

Disclaimer Publication of an article or inclusion of an advertisement does not necessarily imply that the Institute is in agreement with the views expressed or represents endorsement of products, materials or techniques, nor does the Institute accept responsibility for errors or omissions.

PRINTED BY WARNERS 01778 395111

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MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

NEW CIPHE TECHNICAL PROGRAMME

How the CIPHE Technical Strategy Group supports our industry.

Kevin Wellman, CIPHE CEO kevinw@ciphe.org.uk

L

ast year, the CIPHE restructured its technical programme and launched its Technical Strategy Group (TSG).

The purpose of the TSG is to operate as an independent technical and professional focal point and be an authority to the plumbing and heating industry by providing technical standards, guidance, expertise and educational and technical innovation.

It will do this through a series of Technical Working Groups (TWGs) which will be focused on the following areas: • Water safety • Heating • Controls • Hot and cold water • Drainage • Renewables and • Non-technical (legal and compliance).

SAFE WATER GUIDE The first outcome from the revised structure has been the publication of the ‘Safe Water Guide’, which has guidance on minimising Legionnaires’ Disease and hot water scalding. All too often, poor plumbing and heating systems, or insufficient maintenance can be contributory factors in creating problems that can have disastrous and sometimes fatal consequences for the public.

My thanks go to all those who have given their time and provided their expertise in furthering CIPHE’s technical objectives.

HOW TO FIND OUT MORE The above working groups (and indeed, other CIPHE meetings and groups) provide a great opportunity to put something back into the plumbing and heating industry and also to be associated with authoritative publications and information produced

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by the CIPHE. If you would like to learn more about the technical activities, please email paulh@ciphe.org,uk and for details on our other working groups promoting membership activities, please email me kevinw@ciphe.org.uk.

REVIEW OF BYE-LAWS AND REGULATIONS The Board of Trustees are undertaking their periodic review of the Bye-laws and Regulations, which are the constitutional documents of the CIPHE. It provides an opportunity to include a number of administrative updates which the Board believe are beneficial to the CIPHE and our members.

The main areas that have been reviewed are: 1. The Board of Trustees to have greater flexibility in the timing and setting of the annual membership subscriptions and will be able to offer subscription payments by direct debit instalments.

2. A review of the Governance of the Board of Trustees will enable Voting Members to have greater representation.

2.1 The Immediate Past President should no longer be a Voting Member of the Board of Trustees.

2.2 A fourth Voting Member should be appointed to the Board of Trustees.

2.3 Board members should serve a four-year term instead of three.

2.4 The term ‘independent’ has been clearly defined.

2.5 The Honorary Treasurer should hold office for four years, extendable for up to a total of 12 years.

3. Approved Training Centres should be recognised as a separate entity and no longer a sub-set of Industrial Associates.

4. A description for Registered Heating Companies will be available for nominated Registered Heating Professionals who are engaged in heating work.

5. An Apprentice category of membership should replace Trainees and Affiliates.

6. Recognising the importance of those involved in education and training, a new description, Registered Trainer, should be introduced for eligible and qualified members.

All changes to CIPHE Bye-laws and Regulations have to be voted upon at a General Meeting, i.e. AGM or EGM. Once the Board’s recommendations have been finalised and also after they have received the necessary support from the Privy Council Governance Panel, the draft documents will be posted on the CIPHE’s website.

TRAILBLAZER In my last editorial, I referred to the Trailblazer Apprenticeship scheme and I am pleased to confirm that the Plumbing and Domestic Heating Apprenticeship Board, having been established at the beginning of the year, is making good progress. The Trailblazer Apprenticeship is supported by employer organisations with meetings convened by the APHC. Awarding organisations are actively involved in producing the necessary units to ensure the new apprenticeship is ‘fit for purpose’. If you have an interest in the new Trailblazer, whether it be as an individual, an employer, lecturer/trainer or training centre and wish to receive updates on progress, please let me know.

CIPHE AGM Turn to page 25 of this issue for important CIPHE AGM information.

May/June 2017

27/04/2017 16:11

With our technical support, you can be face to face with an expert in seconds.

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To find out more visit worcester-bosch.co.uk/techsupport

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07/04/2017 10:49:46

NEWS

TheNEWS

ALL THAT’S HAPPENING IN THE PLUMBING & HEATING WORLD

OFTEC AND FPS LAUNCH MINIATURE LPG GRID SAFETY CAMPAIGN OFTEC (Oil Firing Technical Association) and the FPS (Federation of Petroleum Suppliers) have joined forces to launch a new ‘Tank Safe’ campaign, urging the 920,000 oil-heated homes in England, Wales and Scotland to make sure their storage tanks are fit for purpose.

Feedback from OFTEC registered oil heating technicians and the oil distribution sector, indicates that some tanks in use today, may be close to or at the end of their serviceable design life of 20 years and should be replaced in order to minimise the risk of leaks. These aging tanks should be replaced with bunded models, which comply with national environmental standards.

Homeowners are responsible for the installation and condition of their tank, but there is concern that consumers may try to put off tank inspections in an attempt to avoid the cost of replacement and that unregistered technicians may not be including oil tank checks as part of annual servicing work, to keep their costs competitive.

British Standard Code of Practice for oil firing, BS 5410-1 requires that tanks are inspected by a competent person, such as an OFTEC registered technician, at least once a year or at the time of an appliance visit (for example, the boiler service). Further information can be found at www.oftec.co.uk or www.oilsave.org.uk

Bloor Homes specified a centralised LPG supply from Flogas to power its new off-grid housing development in Suffolk. The new miniature LPG Bloor Homes specify miniature LPG grid grid delivers gas to residents and helps to ensure the development meets the minimum new-build efficiency requirements outlined in Building Regulations.

Bloor Homes engineer, Jason Evans, said: “Mains gas wasn’t a viable option, but we still wanted people to benefit from an uninterrupted central supply. The Flogas LPG grid enables us to have a communal system that feeds directly into individual homes, providing each one with their own, metered supply."

The development has four, two-tonne LPG bulk tanks, which are buried underground. Each tank is fitted with a telemetry system, which automatically alerts Flogas when a top-up is required. Each property is fitted with its own gas meter, so homeowners are billed based on actual readings.

CLEAN WATER FOR CAMBODIA Xylem recently took 14 customers and employees to Cambodia on the inaugural volunteer trip of its Waterdrop initiative – a loyalty programme that enables consulting engineers to bring safe, clean water to communities in need by learning about, selecting or specifying Xylem products and services.

The winners, along with five Xylem employees, embarked on the trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia in November. In the following two days, the volunteers built three water towers at the elementary schools of Roka Village and Chhouk Sar Village. The towers are designed for quick construction, one-day installation and easy manual maintenance. They operate without power, last up to 10 years and use an ultra-filtration filter system to produce 10,000 litres of water each day – enough to provide 1,000 people with sustainable access to clean water.

Some 3,000 Cambodian people now have access to clean water through the Waterdrop effort.

For more information visit www.xylemwaterdrop.com Right: Xylem’s Waterdrop programme provides clean water to 3,000 people in Cambodia

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NEWS

£320K ENERGY SWITCHING PROJECT

An energy switching project by Kensa Heat Pumps and Hanover Housing Association, has won the title ‘Most Innovative Retrofit Scheme’ at the Housing Innovation Awards.

The two storey project for 22 flats in Ipswich, comprised the replacement of electric storage heaters with more efficient Kensa ground source heat pumps, which were connected to twelve shared ‘micro district’ ground arrays.

The scheme’s micro district design – where a Kensa Shoebox heat pump installed inside each flat was connected to one of 12 communal boreholes − suited the restricted site and also ensured eligibility for Energy Company Obligation (ECO) funding, provided by Kensa’s partnership with EDF Energy, along with twenty years of income through the Non Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).

The micro district design also avoided the need for a plant room and provides complete heating independence to the tenants who are free to switch energy providers. Each resident also received a new hot water cylinder and radiators in place of the old night storage units.

Left: Borehole drilling

FRESH WATER SUPPLY In the foothills of an arid Moroccan mountain range, a giant, spider-web-like contraption called the CloudFisher is supplying 800 people in a drought-strapped region with fresh water.

A series of mesh nets measuring around 17,000 square feet, strung between tall posts, act like a spider web trapping up to 36,000 litres of water a day, to supply 800 people with their drinking water.

The technology, called CloudFisher, pulls dew from the air and funnels the drops into collecting troughs at the base of the net. The Anti-Atlas mountain range in Morocco, where the nets are strung, "has the ideal conditions for fog water production," says Peter Trautwein, the CEO of Aqualonis, the Munich-based company that developed the CloudFisher technology. The area is one of the driest in Morocco, but the fog swirling around the mountains, Trautwein realized, could be used to combat the region’s drinking-water shortage.

NEW PIPE INSULATION APP The new WRAS Pipe Insulation Tool is a free app for installers to assess the effectiveness of insulation in delaying the freezing of water in pipes. Inputting a few pieces of information will reveal how many hours protection you can expect from the insulation.

By varying material thickness or type, you can calculate how much insulation is required for a given set of freezing conditions, aiming to get at least 12 hours protection as the answer at the bottom of the calculation sheet.

While the indicator is set for 12 hours, users can still use the tool for situations where greater protection is needed, such as where there will be no water demand for periods greater than 12 hours, or where there is not likely to be a positive change to the surrounding conditions after 12 hours (i.e. increase in the ambient temperature). However, users will need to decide the appropriate ‘total hours’ protection needed.

The tool is available as a mobile app for smart phones and tablets and is free to download by searching ‘Pipe Insulation Tool’.

WOLSELEY UK GRADUATE SCHEME Wolseley UK has opened its 2017 graduate scheme to fill 15 positions and is recruiting for a cohort of driven, talented and ambitious graduates to join three separate programmes; finance leadership, operations leadership and commercial leadership.

The graduate programme immerses individuals into the Wolseley UK business and its brands such as Plumb Center and Pipe Center.

Successful candidates will embark on a two-year scheme that will put them at the heart of the business. The scheme has been designed

to grow the next generation of leaders by giving the practical experience needed to take on a leadership role within the company.

From day one, graduates will be hands on working with customers and operations in busy branches to understand how Wolseley UK conducts its business. The graduates will spend time in the field or head office, developing professional skills alongside Wolseley UK employees.

For more information about Wolseley UK visit http://www.wolseley.co.uk/

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MEMBER BENEFITS

WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?

This is a question I often get asked when talking to people about why they should become CIPHE members.

After all, we are asking individuals and companies for hard-earned money in exchange for what we offer.

STRUCTURED LEARNING

CPD PROGRAMMES

PROFESSIONAL GUIDES

mycareerpath®

PROMOTING MEMBERS

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QUALIFICATIONS

May/June 2017

07/04/2017 14:53

MEMBER BENEFITS

F

ortunately, at the CIPHE, the answer is: “A lot more than you think”, and I will spend the coming months spotlighting key Tim Sainty, CIPHE membership Membership Director tims@ciphe.org.uk benefits, both old +44 (0) 1708 463102 and new.

As an introduction this month, I will tell you what is available and the CIPHE strategy behind providing it. We strive to provide professionally relevant services and benefits that will work for our members and their businesses and will, in turn, mean advances for wider society.

values and standards as a member of the plumbing and heating industry, so it is great to be launching the mycareerpath® tool to assist members with this process. (See page 24) Attaining recognised qualified educational standards means that the opportunity is there to reach the ACIPHE and MCIPHE categories of membership, so that you can promote yourself to the general public, highlighting the investment you have made into your career and proving yourself as a skilled professional.

PROFESSIONAL GUIDES AND ADVICE Every two months, members receive a copy of p&he with its wide range of CPD, industry updates, expert opinion and advice. However, we also provide in-depth guides on areas ranging from Water Regulations to the Safe Water Guide.

This month, we have added a new title to the collection, Scald Prevention & Legionella – Safe Water Guide, and work is now already underway on providing an updated comprehensive plumbing and heating industry design guide.

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE AND LEGAL SUPPORT HELPLINES

As displayed in the graphic here, members are at the centre of all that we do. Even in the aspect of our role that focuses on public health and safety, it is still through to the work of our members and the wider plumbing and heating engineering industry that we deliver this. After all, who is better placed to look after public health and safety than the CIPHE members who are working at jobs and contracts every day of the week?

Got a technical question that you need some 1-2-1 support with? Here at CIPHE we can provide you with exactly that.

Members can contact us on our technical support line +44 (0) 1708 463106 and we will make sure that we provide you with the answers you need.

We can also offer you a free legal advice line service on 0121 314 0000 that can point you in the right direction by giving expert and completely confidential, advice on issues ranging from personal to professional.

SAVING YOU MONEY Alongside all of the professional enhancement and assistance available, we also partner with companies that can provide our members with opportunities to save money on a range of relevant services. For example: • If you like the idea of registering as a Which?

Trusted Trader we can support you through the process and can reduce the fees payable for you to do so.

• We have launched a partnership with UIB to provide members with valuable, high-quality and a wide-ranging number of insurance services with fantastic average savings already being achieved by those who have used the facility.

• There’s even a discounted hotel booking service with Grange Hotels once you inform them that you are a member of CIPHE.

RECLAIM YOUR TAX As the CIPHE is recognised by HMRC as a professional subscription, you can reclaim the tax back on any membership fees paid to the Institute. You can even make back-dated claims if you haven’t yet taken advantage of this.

Finally, I would like to let you know that we are not standing still. We are well into plans to add further professional membership benefits in areas such as van leasing and purchasing, project management software, company marketing services, pension and financial advice, and also workwear in development.

So, not only “A lot more than you think”, but also, “A lot more to come.” Please get in touch if you would like further information regarding any of the benefits of membership already available, or if you would like to discuss possible future additions.

DEVELOPING YOUR CAREER As a registered educational charity, we support the improvement of standards in our industry. For individual members, we provide structured learning all the way through from apprenticeships at CIPHE Approved Training Centres, through to the newly-introduced techtalk and smarttalk CPD programmes (see pages 11 and 16) and all the way to a route where registration as Engineering Technician, Incorporated Engineer and Chartered Engineer can be achieved with the Engineering Council.

Participation in Continuing Professional Development is going to become an increasingly high-profile way of promoting

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28/04/2017 10:54

NATIONAL PRESIDENT

PRESIDENT’S DIARY

A

Paul Williams, CIPHE National President, looks at some of the recent highlights of his presidency.

Paul Williams

s an Approved Contractor Person and a member of WaterSafe, I regularly undertake renewal of cold water supplies to properties. Recently, I was working on a property that had four incoming mains that were all joined underground with the older connections being lead, which now must be replaced.

It is very easy to turn a cold water stop tap off and check that the supply has been turned off before cutting into another pipe that you believe is isolated, but mishaps

Paul Williams with Jonathan Edwards MP

can easily happen, and this is why you must always have appropriate liability insurance cover. I am therefore now one more person who has taken advantage of the excellent quotation that the new CIPHE insurance brokers, UIB, have given me and is available to all CIPHE members.

AWARDS It has been a busy year as National President and one of the highlights was to attend the Master Awards Ceremony. It was a pleasure to meet the members who have worked so hard to achieve these awards which were established by the CIPHE in 2001, in partnership with The Worshipful Company of Plumbers and the City & Guilds of London Institute. The scheme has now been adopted by many Livery Companies and continues to grow in momentum. This year’s ceremony, held at Merchant Taylors’ Hall, brought

back fantastic memories for me as that is the venue where I received my own Master Plumber Certificate.

I also attended the CIBSE Building Performance Awards and it was a pleasure to see such high standards being achieved and maintained by the nominees and winners.

My President’s Dinner was held at Founders’ Hall in London and was attended by leading industry guests. I would like to thank those who organised the event and all of the guests, especially Jonathan Edwards, Member of Parliament for Carmarthen East & Dinefwr who was an excellent after dinner speaker.

MASTER PLUMBER, JOURNEYMAN AND APPRENTICE CERTIFICATES Please contact Marie McCaffrey, Email: mariem@ciphe.org.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1708 463104 for details on the above awards. The intention of this scheme is to support national and public interest by encouraging students, trainees and apprentices to give of their best by recognising their achievements.

At the same time, these awards confer status on individuals that have been earned.

COVER STORY

CIPHE SAFE WATER GUIDE

T

he new CIPHE Safe Water Guide provides information on the requirements necessary for providing safe water – minimising Legionella and other harmful bacteria, the prevention of scalding and the associated duty of care.

It replaces the ‘Blue Book’, which was published in 1990 as ‘Legionnaires’ disease – Good Practice Guide for Plumbers’. This new guide therefore, incorporates new knowledge that has been determined by experts from the medical profession, bacteriologists, manufacturers and engineers.

It covers the definition of ‘safe water’ and the main issues which may threaten it, including the two additional risks; namely the growth of harmful bacteria such as Legionella, and poor temperature control, resulting in scalding.

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As well as protecting the general population, the guide also outlines additional risks potentially faced by engineers working on domestic water systems and how to minimise or avoid exposure.

It provides information on managing risk when working on renewable energy-heated hot water systems, hot tubs, spas and spa baths. Another section is dedicated to the maintenance of TMVs and the scalding risks posed by hot water drinks dispensers.

For larger systems, the design and good practice chapter of the Safe Water Guide is simplified, but thoroughly discussed. It is sensible to assume that precautions should be taken by any engineer coming into contact with water, but above all of course, it is vital to maintain a clean and safe system in the first place and a chapter provides comprehensive, easy to follow directions.

ORDER YOUR COPIES NOW To order your copy of the CIPHE Safe Water Guide: • See the order form on the back of this issue’s address sheet • Email: info@ciphe.org.uk • Tel: : +44 (0) 1708 472791 The Safe Water Guide costs £20.00 for members (including p&p) and £35.00 for non-members (including p&p)

May/June 2017

28/04/2017 10:29

with Peter PeterAdkins Adkins with Solicitor, Emms GilmoreLiberson LibersonSolicitors Solicitors icitors Solicitor, Emms Gilmore icitors

smarttalk-ciphe.org.uk

A director's Don’t loseduty yourcalls! cool with the consumer!

You may have seen last last year about no doubt you already feel a strong duty to do what is best for your IfYou you arehave a director ofyear a company, may seen about business.

What you may not be aware of, is the extent of your legal responsibilities and duties and the the extension to Consumer ‘cooling the extension to consumer ‘cooling consequences that result if you fail to comply with those responsibilities. off’ periods from 7 tomay 14 days. off’ periods from seven to 14 days.

What may not have been obvious We have written previously about the What may not have been obvious to to those in the trade is how important possible personal risks to directors those in the trade is how importantfor this breach of health and safetyislegislation this piece of legislation to you.it at piece of legislation is to you. Ignore and the ultimate risk of corporate Ignore it –atdo your peril – do so your peril so and itgo could costand youit manslaughter if things very wrong. could cost you money (and money reputation)!

But what(and other duties do you have? reputation)!

Director’s dutiesifare in the In a nutshell, youcontained do not comply In a nutshell, if youActs, do but not comply relevant in brief, with theCompanies requirements of the new with the requirements of the new directors have a duty to: act you risk not getting paid for the Act you paid for the work yourisk donot andgetting also prosecution

work you dotheir andpowers: alsoStandards. prosecution 1.by Act within You must your local Trading comply with theTrading company’s articles of by your local Standards.

Many think that theconstitutional cooling off association and other Many think that theto cooling off period only applies goods.

It also documents and to exercise any powers period only applies to goods.

It also. only for the reasons they were given. applies to ‘the provision of services’

applies to ‘theplumbing, provision building of services’.

This includes This includes plumbing, building 2.and Actelectrical in a way which works.is most likely to and electrical works.of the company promote the success Consumers have 14members days from for the benefihave t of its asthe a Consumers 14 order days from date they placed an by the whole: So have regard to the interests date they placed an order by phone, internet, by mail order orthe at of employees, suppliers, customers, phone, internet, by mail order their home, to cancel with you.or at environment, the company’s reputation their home, to cancel with you. and its shareholders andthis make informed If they cancel within period, If they cancel within period, and balanced decisions accordingly. they have a right to athis refund of they have a right to a refund of monies paid.

3.monies Exercise independent judgment: paid.

Assubordinating the business your supplying No power the to the will As the business supplying the service, are still required provide of others. you You can rely onto advice, but service you are required to you to decide yourself whether theneed customer withfordetails ofprovide your the with details your or notcustomer to follow it. business including address,ofphone business including address, phone numbers, their cancellation rights numbers, their cancellation rights 4.and Exercise reasonable care, skill and how to cancel. and how Be to well cancel. diligence: informed of your If you do not, then cooling company’s aff airs andthe make careful,off If you do not, then the cooling off period is extended to 14 days from diligent decisions. You are expected period is extended to 14 days from the daythe the information is supplied. to have skill and knowledge the day the information is supplied. reasonably expected of someone in Well worded terms of business and Well worded terms of business and your industry. order forms are an absolute must here. order forms are an absolute about 5.What Avoid conflemergency icts betweenrepair your own must here. work? You contacted by a interests andare those of the company: What the about emergency repair Unless company consents of course! homeowner by telephone to carry work?

You work are contacted by a out urgent to stop flooding, homeowner byheating telephone to carry 6.sort Notout accept benefi ts from third faulty or clear a out urgent work to stop flooding, parties in your capacity as a director: drain. The work is carried out sort out faulty heating orconsents clear a Again, unless theday company within the 14 period.

The repair –drain. for example, to allow you to out benefit The work is carried work having been completed, the from reasonable corporate hospitality. within themay 14 day period. repair consumer then try to The cancel work having been completed, contract.

What doinyou do? the 7.the Declare any interest atoproposed consumer may then try cancel Maybe the or work isn’t urgentThe but the transaction arrangement: the contract.

What do youwithin do? consumer wants started declaration must beitmade before the Maybe the work isn’t urgent but the the 14 days? transaction is entered into. consumer wants it started within Article14 provided the days?by PHPL on behalf of the CIPHE.

All of these duties are owed by you to the company and only the company can enforce them. It is important to be aware of them because the consequences of breaching your duties are potentially very serious.

Possible consequences of a breach include an injunction to prevent further breaches, cancelling an affected transaction, or compensation. A breach could even be grounds for a termination of your service contract, if you have one.

Financial obligations

Directors should beware of thinking that they can simply trade on with a company even though it can’t pay its debts as they fall due. Company directors who are They may may want want you you to to fit fit in in with with They found to be continuing to trade when the other tradesmen, or have the work company is insolvent or (and thisthe can work include other tradesmen, have

finished before before aa deadline deadline they they finished have?

Or perhaps another job have? Or perhaps another job cancels and you arrange with the cancels and you arrange with the customer to start work earlier than customer to start work earlier than you expected? you expected?

What do do you you do? do? Ideally Ideally you you wait wait What until the 14 days period has expired until the 14 days period has expired but that that isis often often impractical. impractical. but Work safety In all all of of these these cases cases you you should should In ensure that before you start work, ensure that before you start work, the consumer has been given all the the the consumer has been given all relevant information about your relevant information about your business, and and notice notice of of their their rights rights business, to cancel and signed authority to to cancel and signed authority to carry out the work within the 14 carry out the work within the days period.

14 days period.

taking deposits for work) can be held personally liable for the company debts.

The corporate veil disappears quickly in these circumstances.

As a director, you may also be held personally liable if your company is found to be failing in any of its own legal duties, such as keeping proper accounts, or complying with tax, employment and health and safety laws. We have written before about the possible personal consequences where your actions (or inactions) lead to injury or worse.

This is only a general overview of the duties you have as a director and is not intended to be legal advice. If you have any doubts as to your position you should The consumer consumer should should sign sign an an order order The always seek professional advice.

form confirming confirming the the work work to to be be form carried out and the price.

The form carried out and the price. The form should also contain your terms and should also contain your terms and conditions and give the details of conditions and give the details of cancellation rights. rights. cancellation they need need the the work work carrying carrying out out IfIf they urgently, then signing the form will urgently, then signing the form will confirm they have been given the confirm they have been given the notice, and, and, despite despite that, that, they they want want notice, REGULATIONS you to start work. you to start work.

This will will make make itit far far easier easier to to deal deal This with attempted cancellation and with attempted cancellation and you should normally recover the full full you should normally recover the amount agreed for emergency amount agreed for emergency works, or or otherwise otherwise aa sum sum works, dependent upon how much of of the the dependent upon how much works were carried out before works were carried out before cancellation. cancellation.

How? Start Start by by reviewing reviewing your your order order How? forms urgently. forms urgently.

Peter Adkins Adkins isis aa Solicitor Solicitor with with Emms Emms Gilmore Gilmore Liberson Liberson Solicitors Solicitors based based in in Peter Birmingham.

Peter has been involved with the CIPHE for many years and Birmingham. Peter has been involved with the CIPHE for many years and regularly advises advises CIPHE CIPHE members members of of all all types types of of legal legal issues. issues. He He can can be be regularly contacted at padkins@egl-law.com 0121 314 0000 contacted at padkins@egl-law.com 0121 314 0000

Proud to be a Professional with knowledgefrom fromsmarttalk smarttalk with knowledge

TM TM

November/December May/June 2017 2016

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27/04/2017 16:36

INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATES

SUSTAINED SUPPORT FOR THE CIPHE

The CIPHE hosted its first Industrial Associates Development Group (IADG) meeting of the year in February at Wolseley UK’s Sustainable Building Centre.

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he event was well-attended by representatives from the plumbing, heating and bathroom industries, including leading manufacturers and members of the trade press who were keen to learn more about the Institute’s progress.

Tim Pollard, Head of Sustainability at Wolseley welcomed delegates then handed over to Paul Massey, Chair of the IADG, who outlined what the future has in store for the CIPHE. Paul reported that the Institute’s IA membership comprises more than 200 organisations, including Approved Training Centres (ATCs), who work closely with the next generation of UK plumbing and heating engineers.

During the last quarter, the CIPHE has strengthened links with other trade and professional bodies that are highly supportive of the Institute’s aims. These include the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) and the Builders Merchant Federation (BMF).

While significant progress is being made, Paul was keen to point out that by the end of 2018 the CIPHE aims to be working closely with around 300 IA members.

Reaching this target is vital to ensure industry-wide promotion of best-practice, continued learning, sector careers and achieving the ultimate goal of protecting the health and wellbeing of the general public.

Richard Soper, Director of International Development, provided updates on various CIPHE initiatives. Links with UIB for insurances and other membership services have already been completed while a car/van leasing scheme, pensions advice and workwear are on the agenda for the next quarter, offering additional benefits for members.

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PROUD TO BE A PROFESSIONAL An overview of high levels of continuing media support for the Institute’s ‘Proud to be a Professional’ campaign was also presented, with press coverage secured across a variety of installer and merchant publications. With the appointment of new Membership Director, Tim Sainty, plans to formulate a social media strategy for the CIPHE were also discussed.

Richard demonstrated progress being made to increase the number of CIPHE Approved Training Centres (ATCs). While IA members with their own training facilities are encouraged to sign up for ATC status.

The Institute is encouraging manufacturers to get involved with technical colleges in their local area via the scheme as well.

For example, the CIPHE’s College Support Programme means IA members can support individual colleges through training material – e-learning, technical guidance and 3D animation – offer company visits and contribute to technical talks. Beyond this, there is scope to provide materials for students’ working booths to improve their practical skills.

MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT Under the ATC scheme, the CIPHE offers free membership for all students and apprentices for the first year, with access to all membership programmes i.e. the p&he Journal and e-learning modules. This also includes admission to the BMA’s Academy Training Programme plus assessment, which is being trialled during 2017/18 with the Heart of Worcestershire College.

Paul Harmer, Technical Director for the CIPHE, presented an outline of how the CIPHE is continuing to build its new smarttalk and techtalk series into a valuable resource for plumbing and heating engineers, making it easier to invest time in Continuing Professional Development.

Yvonne Orgill, CEO of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, provided an update on the European Water Label and outlined concerns surrounding the lack of policing of CE marking in the UK. She stressed the importance of CIPHE members helping to protect the public by making merchants, retailers and installers aware of the consequences of supplying and fitting sub-standard products in UK homes.

BONFIELD REVIEW The meeting was brought to a close with a presentation by Roger Webb, Director of External Affairs, who reflected on the recent publication of the Bonfield Review and the implications of this for plumbing and heating professionals. While the CIPHE welcomes the report and its intention to help stamp out instances of illegal work, it was agreed there should be a resistance to adding more red tape in favour of supporting the industry and those institutions, manufacturers and individuals already endeavouring to deliver customer service at its best.

Since the launch of the ‘Proud to be a Professional’ campaign in early 2016, support for the IA Development Group meetings has been enthusiastic, with more and more members making time to join together, network with other like-minded individuals and offer support.

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TECHNICAL

PRESS-FITTING FOR ALL APPLICATIONS Press-fitting is fast becoming the preferred method of connecting pipework, with installers looking for a solution that is simple to work with, increases efficiency, improves quality and results in a safe, secure connection.

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he many advantages that press fitting offers, coupled with the diversity of applications it can be used for, are Antony Corbett, Product Manager resulting in installers - Piping Systems, Geberit. increasingly turning their backs on soldering and screw-threads.

The main driver for this switch is speed and ease – pressing systems are much easier to install and therefore save time on the job, which in turn, saves money for the end user.

Simple to use and offering a much safer alternative to conventional pipework connection methods, according to a BSRIA report, press fitting can save approximately 30 percent in costs, compared with traditional systems, thanks to its ease of installation.

For example, the Geberit Mapress requires no adhesives, solvents or hot works and with the press-fit connections easily rotated into tight spaces it makes the system ideal for use on retrofit projects and complex installations. The only tools needed are a cutter, deburrer and pressing tool − just cut, deburr and press connections together.

Pressing a mapress joint

Rotated mapress

REPAIRS Repair work is easier with this pipework connection method too, with no downtime as it can be installed while the system is still wet and no cooling times are required, making it ideal for fast turnaround jobs. The process of pressing also creates less mess, with no need to cut compounds, eradicating the swarf and filings usually caused by joint making and less risk of damage to existing fixtures and fittings. Hardly any flushing is required as a consequence of the clean installation process.

Putting safety first, Geberit Mapress fittings are designed so that any connections not pressed during installation, can be visibly detected during testing. The pressing indicator consists of a thin plastic foil encasing the pressing shoulder, which gives a visible indication of a pressed joint when the foil is removed during the pressing operation.

Clearly marked with the fitting’s size, each indicator is colour coded according to material to further aid installation, with blue representing stainless steel, red for carbon steel, white for copper and black for CuNiFe. These press fittings are available in a range of materials including stainless steel, carbon steel and copper, making it suitable for use on systems including heating, compressed air, cooling, gas and potable water.

WATER AND HEATING APPLICATIONS For water applications, Geberit Mapress is the ideal choice, with solutions such as caps on drinking water pipes, fittings and system

valves ensuring that no dirt particles enter the piping, from its production right through to arrival on site and installation. With WRAS approval for potable water, Geberit Mapress Copper and Stainless Steel come in a wide range of sizes so can be used to install entire water systems, creating a reliable, safe connection with ease.

The benefits of working with Geberit Mapress are similar for heating applications too, with the ideal scenario being the transportation of hot water from the heating system to radiators and panel heaters with the maximum heat resistance and the lowest possible flow resistance. The solution is to use Geberit Mapress Copper, Stainless Steel or Carbon Steel, which combine high safety characteristics with optimised hydraulics.

Geberit Mapress Carbon Steel and Geberit Stainless Steel can also be used for closed circuit heating systems and for large jobs, offering installers versatility when it is needed most.

For safety, reliability and efficiency on gas installs too, Geberit Mapress stainless steel and copper fittings are approved for use by BSi, meaning they can be used for gas pipes so long as the manufacturers’ instructions are followed.

Geberit is a CIPHE Industrial Associate.

For more information visit www.geberit.co.uk

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27/04/2017 16:39

VULNERABILITY

THE SECRETS TO FITTING AN ARTHRITIS-FRIENDLY BATHROOM Careful thought must go into designing bathrooms for those living with arthritis, one of the most common types of musculoskeletal complaints in the UK. James Dadd, Marketing Director at AKW, discusses the requirements and associated benefits of a bathroom or wet room designed to be arthritis-friendly.

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ore than a third of all over-45 year olds in the UK suffer the painful effects of osteoarthritis. On James Dadd, top of this, cases of Marketing Director rheumatoid arthritis at AKW are rocketing with a staggering 400,000 sufferers and around 20,000 new cases each year.

Arthritis Research UK has warned that the nation is set to be hit by an epidemic of arthritis, with one in 10 people expected to be affected within 20 years as the population ages and becomes less active. That’s why being mindful of the specific needs of those with restricted mobility caused by conditions such as arthritis has never been more important to installers.

GRAB RAILS An inclusively-designed bathroom or wet room, with appropriately specified equipment helps to promote independence, improve dexterity, safeguard against falls and ease the symptoms and the misery experienced by those with arthritis. But what options do installers have?

The most obvious additions to a bathroom to improve accessibility are products that aid mobility and stability such as grab rails and bars. Arthritis Research UK recommends installing these beside baths, toilets and basins as well as in and around showers.

Grab rails should, ideally, be made from high quality uPVC for easy cleaning.

Some feature a fluted surface that provides additional grip for users that struggle fully to close their hands around a bar.

WET ROOMS Walk in baths are an option for independent living, but they can be expensive. Level access wet rooms are a more cost-effective alternative that remove any trip hazards for users and make the most of the space in a bathroom.

These are quick and easy to install with a high quality, watertight wet room former.

Put simply, a wet room former is a shower tray that sits under the tiling or the type of floor that you have in your wet room. Its purpose is to create enough of a fall for water to drain out of the wet room while ensuring that the wet room floor is a level surface with no trip hazards.

Whether part of an adaptation or for a luxury wet room in the home, the secret of installation success is to select the right wet room former, so the key questions to consider are: • What weight does the former need to support?

• Will you be tiling or using vinyl flooring?

• How much water will you need to drain from the shower?

• What are the needs of the user?

• What is your customer’s budget?

However, remember that accessibility is relative to each user – what may be accessible to one may not be for another.

So, when offering wet room solutions, carry

The secret of installation success is to select the right wet room former

Grab rails should, ideally, be made from high quality uPVC

out a full evaluation to establish the exact constraints of the user and their home, to enable the best possible solution.

LIFE-CHANGING These types of adaptations can be quick and inexpensive to complete, yet the difference they make to users with arthritis can be life-changing.

Indeed, these principles will help to create a welcoming and safe bathroom that encourages independent living for people with arthritis.

Nevertheless, there is no one size fits all solution for all users with musculoskeletal complaints and it is vital to assess individual needs in order to design the optimum space.

Also, to get the most from the business opportunities that a growing trend for accessible bathrooms presents, it makes sense for installers to seek advice from adaptation specialists like ourselves. This will enable you to offer expert guidance on specific solutions that promote independence, safeguard against falls, improve dexterity and dramatically ease the symptoms for many arthritis sufferers.

AKW can offer tailored guidance in terms of design and accessory options for each project being worked on so that you achieve the best, most cost-effective result possible.

Accessible wet room products can have a huge positive impact on people’s lives. However, the planning, design and implementation of the adaptation is vital.

AKW Ltd is a CIPHE Industrial Associate.

For more information visit www.akw-ltd.co.uk

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Prestigious brands like Ferrari, Heineken and BT have trusted us for decades.

Why? Because the same precision engineering, extensive research and rigorous testing go into all of our fittings including push-fit plumbing and heating.

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Grip & Seal on plastic or copper pipe

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Superseal Inserts secondary seal

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Twist & Lock compression

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Safe, flame-free installation

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Install & demount in seconds, with no tools

TRUSTED BY THE BEST

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SEE THE EVIDENCE speedfit-tech.co.uk

07/04/2017 10:57:05

with Paul Harmer Technical Director, CIPHE

TT/D/002

Discharge from unvented hot water into plastic Discharge from unvented hot water storagestorage cylinderscylinders into plastic pipework. sanitary One of the mainpipework purposes of the systems Chartered Institute of Plumbing and

Heating Engineering is to protect One of the main purposes of the CIPHE safety and of the public the is tohealth protect the by raising through safety andstandards health of the public education.

Paul Harmer, Technical by raising standards through Director of the CIPHE, comments on education. Paul Harmer the latest report issued by the Technical Director of the CIPHE British Plastic Federation (Pipe comments on the latest report group) on unvented hot water issued by the British Plastic discharge pipe termination..

Federation (Pipes Group) on “Plumbing and heating installers are unvented hot water discharge regularly faced with the pipe termination. temptation of terminating the unvented hot water safety discharge

Plumbing heating pipe into and a plastic soilinstallers stack forare ease regularly faced with the temptation of of installation. terminating therecent unvented waterout However, the testshot carried safety discharge pipe into a plastic soil on behalf of the BPF Pipe Group stack for ease of installation.

suggests that only D2 discharge pipes installed using a plastic However, the recent tests carriedpipe material compliant with theGroup BS EN out on behalf of the BPF Pipe 1451-1:2000 standard can be pipes used. suggests that only D2 discharge This may be achievable inmaterial, a new installed using a plastic pipe compliant with the BS EN 1451-1:2000 build situation whereby the correct standard, be used.

This maymaterial be soil stackcan or waste pipework achievable in a new build can be verified from thesituation outset, whereby the soildeemed stack or waste however, it correct could be a risk pipework material can be verifitoedthe in retrofit applications due from the outset, however, it could be lack of knowledge of the existing deemed a risk in retrofit applications plastic pipe due to the lackmaterial”. of knowledge of the existing plastic pipe material.

Situation

Situation To comply with the Building

Regulations for England and Wales,

To comply with the Building the Water for Supply (Water Regulations England and Fittings) Wales, Regulations and the Scottish the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Water Byelaws, aand hotthe water system with a Regulations Scottish Water storage vessel must incorporate Bye-laws, a hot water system with (a) prevent the aprecautions storage vesselto: must incorporate precautions to: of the water stored in temperature

the vessel at any time exceeding

(a) prevent the(b) temperature ofany the 100°C; and ensure that water storedfrom in thesafety vessel devices at any time discharge is exceeding 100°C; and safely conveyed to where it is

visible, but will not cause a danger

(b) ensure that any discharge from safety to persons in conveyed or about to the building. devices is safely where it isTo visible but will cause a danger prevent thenot temperature of to persons or about the building. storedin water exceeding 100°C, a

temperature relief valve or a combined temperature and pressure relief valve needs to be

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To prevent the temperature of

installed to safely discharge the stored water exceeding 100°C, a temperature reliefofvalve, or a water in the event serious combined temperature pressure over-heating.

As set outand in BS EN relief valve, needs to be installed 1490: 2000 (Building valves. to safely discharge the water in the Combined temperature and event of serious over-heating. As set pressure relief valves.

Tests and out in BS EN 1490: 2000 (Building

requirements), the temperature nominal set valves. Combined temperature range which temperature and pressure reliefatvalves.

Tests and relief valves are set to andpressure requirements), the nominal operate is betweenrange 90°C at to which 95°C. set temperature

temperature and pressure relief Under these controlled conditions, valves are set to operate is between safety relief discharge pipework from 90°C to 95°C. unvented hot water storage systems up to 410 litres (500 litres nominal) Under these controlled conditions, capacity can be drained pipework to plastic from safety relief discharge sanitary pipework.

Attention to unvented hot water storageneeds systems be to the plumbing design. uppaid to 410 litres (500 litres nominal) capacity can be drained to plastic [Note: Uncontrolled temperature discharge sanitary pipework.

Attention needs such as that from pressure relief valves to be paid to the plumbing design. should not be drained through sanitary pipework as temperatures could reach in excess of 100°C but in any case is not permitted under G3].

[Note: Uncontrolled temperature

The purpose guide is discharge suchof asthis thatshort from pressure to draw attention to the imporrelief valves should not be drained tance ofsanitary good design and through pipework asinstaltemperatures could reach ininto excess of lation when discharging 100°C but in any case is not permitted plastic pipework systems. under G3].

The British Plastics Federation (BPF) The purpose of this short guide Pipes Group and its members is to draw attention to the strongly advise that compliance importance of good design and with the product listed in installation whenstandards discharging into this guide is verified by a third plastic pipework systems. party certification scheme (for The Britishthe Plastics Federation example, BSI Kitemark).

(BPF) Pipes Group and its members strongly advise that compliance Good plumbing design with the product standards listed in this guide is verified by a third party certifi cation scheme The configuration of (for the example, safety the BSI Kitemark). relief discharge pipework, for

discharge of hot water from a valve through a metal discharge pipe (D1) of diameter up to DN22 into plastic sanitary pipework, is shown in the diagram on page 7.

May/June 2017

27/04/2017 16:43

Good plumbing design

Specific points of good plumbing practice are highlighted:

pipework is helpful when it is

Specifi c points of good impractical to route theplumbing discharge practice are highlighted: pipework directly to an external

point in a visible location.

Visible point of discharge Tundish adaptor Straight adaptor

Waste typically discharged to soil stack through boss adaptor Pipe clip positioned close to valve to provide additional support 300mm bewteen pipe clips

dry out.

recommended in Approved G can be achieved.

•Document A tundish adaptor ensures the

minimum 300mm below the tundish before any elbows or bends in the 4)pipework The waterless valve needs to be recommended in Approved installed vertically, Document G can beadjacent achieved.the

storage cylinder; and be visible

•and Theaccessible. waterless valve needs to be installed vertically, adjacent to the storage cylinder and be visible 5)and accessible.

A suitable plastic pipe (such as

polypropylene complying with

•BSA EN suitable plastic pipe (such as at 1451-1:2000) supported polypropylene complying withmay BS EN maximum 300mm intervals, 1451-1:2000) supported atpipe maximum be used for downstream D2.

300mm intervals, may be used for downstream pipe D2.

6) The BPF Pipes Group and its

•members The BPF Pipes Group and itsthat strongly advise members strongly advise that pipes pipes manufactured to BS 7291: manufactured to BS 7291: 2006 2006 (Parts 1 to 3) are not used for (Parts 1 to 3) are not used the downstream pipe D2.for the downstream pipe D2.

Waste alternatively discharged through soil manifold Pipe manufactured to BS 7291: 2006 (Parts 1 to 3) are not recommended for the downstream pipe D2

32 mm nominal / 34 mm OD polypropylene discharge pipe to BS EN 1451. Pipe run to the soil stack connection to be suppoerted with pipe clips.

See approved Document G to the Building Regulations for pipe sizing

Additional Installation Considerations Additional installation considerations 1) Given the high temperatures

reached during valve operation, it is •also Given the high temperatures recommended that thereached during valve operation, it is also connection of pipework to the soil recommended that the connection stack is achieved using an of pipework to the soil stack is appropriately boss pipe fitting, achieved usingsized an appropriately fixed in place with a This sized boss pipe fitting,bracket. fixed in place arrangement preferable to strap, with a bracket.isThis arrangement clip or patch to bosses used in is preferable strap; typically clip or patch the retro-fit of standard appliances. bosses typically used in the retro-fit of An acceptable alternative would be standard appliances.

An acceptable toalternative connect would to a soil pipe manifold. be to connect to a soil pipe manifold.

Where a waterless valve and plastic •pipework Where a waterless and plastic (pipe D2)valve are used, the pipework (pipe D2) areshould used, the connecting pipework not be connectingtopipework shoulditnot connected a stack unless canbebe connected to athat stackthe unless can be demonstrated stackit is capable demonstrated that the stack is capable of withstanding temperatures of the of withstanding temperatures of the water discharged.

* PVC-U Pipes to BS EN 1453 manufactured with two solid PVC layers or two Solid PVC layers with a non-foamed PVC intermediate layer may be used for this application.

The soil stack should be vented to the atmosphere and constructed • The soil stack should be vented to the from a suitable plastic pipe (such as atmosphere and constructed from a PVC-U to BS EN 1329-1 or PE to suitable plastic pipe (such as PVC-U to BS EN 1519-1).

In or addition, BS EN 1329-1 PE to BS PVC-U EN 1519-1). In pipesaddition, to BS EN 1453-1 PVC-U pipes to BS EN 1453-1 manufactured

by BPF Pipes Group manufactured

by BPF Pipes Group members (having twotwo solid PVC members (having solid PVC layers two solid PVC layers withwith a nonlayersoror two solid PVC layers a foamed PVC layer) may non-foamed PVCintermediate intermediate layer) may be be used usedfor forthis thisapplication. application.

• It is critical that safety devices on the unvented hot water storage system It is critical that safety devices on are subject to annual safety checks to the unvented hot storage prevent any riskwater of failure and potential system are subject to annual safety property damage.

checks to prevent any risk of failure and potential property damage.

water discharged.

Report supplied by

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May/June 2017

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Soil stack PVC-U to BS EN 1329 or BS EN 1453*, or PE to BS EN 1519

Self-sealing waterless valve

• The use of tested and approved waterless valves for 2)self-sealing Self-sealing waterless valves connecting to internal sanitary should be used as they prevent pipework helpful when it is foul sewerisgases from entering impractical to route the discharge the building. Water traps are not pipework directly to an external point suitable in this situation as they in a visible location.

• Self-sealing waterless valves should 3) A tundish adaptor ensures the be used as they prevent foul sewer minimum the gases from300mm enteringbelow the building. tundish before any elbows orthis Water traps are not suitable in bends in the pipework situation as they dry out.

Vent to atmosphere

Discharge pipe

300mm Minimum

The configuration of the safety relief discharge pipework, for discharge of hot water from a valve through a metal discharge (D1) of and diameter up to 1) The usepipe of tested approved DN22 into plastic sanitary pipework, self-sealing waterless valves for is shown in the to diagram. connecting internal sanitary

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TECHNICAL

DISPELLING COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS SURROUNDING THE COPPER VS PLASTIC DEBATE Press-fitting is becoming the preferred method of connecting pipework, with installers looking for a solution that is simple to work with, increases efficiency, improves quality and results in a safe, secure connection.

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raditional first-fix plumbing methods have long used copper, but with convenience, speed and cost increasingly a Toby Howard-Willis, Technical Engineer priority, plastic is at JG SpeedďŹ t rapidly becoming the material of choice. However, complete industry adoption of plastic has not yet happened and this is largely due to some common misconceptions that many installers still have about plastic. Toby Howard-Willis, Technical Engineer at JG Speedfit, answers some of the most common questions surrounding plastic pipes and fittings.

Copper has long been a reliable and effective material for first-fix plumbing, but it is a finite resource. As demand starts to outstrip supply, plumbers are going to be faced with higher prices for pipes and fittings and this is going to prevent them from offering a cost-effective service.

Plastic on the other hand, has a much longer lifespan and will be widely available and affordable for many years.

These days, professionals often have a maximum of three days to install a system and then they need to get out so that other trades can get on site. Plastic is faster and more convenient to install than copper and can help plumbers meet these challenging timescales.

WHAT MAKES PLASTIC FASTER TO INSTALL THAN COPPER? When using plastic push-fit technology, plumbers do not need to carry any specialist tools. Whereas copper pipes have to be soldered together, the fast and effective push and twist, push-fit mechanism can securely connect any pipe in about five seconds. With copper, you need to factor in the time it takes to solder the fitting, as well as the time it takes the solder to heat up.

IS PLASTIC PRONE TO LEAKS? No. You’d be surprised at the volume of water pressure that Speedfit pipes can take.

We pressure test our fittings up to 60-bar to ensure a leak-proof seal. In contrast, the amount of pressure a copper pipe can

Fitting

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TECHNICAL

SpeedďŹ t technology

O-ring seal Ensure a permanent leak-proof connection.

Superseal Pipe insert Creates a secondary seal.

Stainless Steel Teeth High quality stainless steel teeth grip the pipe when fully inserted.

Collet Advanced gripping mechanism utilise stainless steel teeth for a strong connection.

sustain invariably depends on how well the fitting has been soldered on. It’s important to understand that when we refer to plastic, we are actually talking about crosslinked polypropylene, and polybutylene, a specially-engineered material which has been specifically designed to ensure robustness over extended periods. The technology we use in Speedfit fittings, such as O-rings, is also used in vehicle braking and fuel injection systems, so you can be assured of its durability and reliability.

SURELY TEMPERATURE MAKES A DIFFERENCE? It does, but in a more favourable way for plastic than it does for copper. During the transfer of water in a copper pipe, heat is typically wasted by heating up the pipe but this does not happen with plastic. Furthermore, because of constant fluctuations in temperature, both materials are liable to expand but this is also more of an issue with copper pipes. Expanding

Spacer Washer Provide additional support to the O-ring Seal.

copper results in unwanted noise and vibration, which can become a nuisance to the homeowner. Plastic on the other hand, expands without these undesirable side effects.

WHAT ELSE MAKES PLASTIC A MORE CONVENIENT OPTION THAN COPPER? The flexibility of plastic pipes has helped to win over the plumbing industry. Plumbers can thread plastic pipes through joists in continuous lengths like cabling systems, which cannot be achieved with copper. This means that you can often hide complex plastic pipework systems out of sight, whereas copper is more rigid and easier to leave on show.

ARE THERE ANY INSTANCES WHERE COPPER SIMPLY CANNOT BE USED? Yes. Some sites will not allow blowtorches on site because they pose a fire risk. This

makes it impossible to solder together copper pipes, making plastic the more suitable option.

DO YOU FORESEE A TIME WHEN THE ENTIRE PLUMBING INDUSTRY WILL BE USING PLASTIC? All plumbers have their preferred methods for first-fix plumbing, but there is no doubt that the popularity of plastic is growing. Not only are plastic pipes and fittings safer, easier, more convenient and in some cases, more reliable than copper, but they can also offer additional reassurance for homeowners.

JG Speedfit is a CIPHE Industrial Associate.

For more information visit www.speedfit-tech.co.uk

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CPD

HIGH RISE

DRAINAGE VENTILATION The importance of the water trap seal.

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eing the only barrier between the drainage system and the living and/or working space, it is critical Steve White, Technical Director at that the water trap Studor Ltd seal is maintained at all times. This protects the occupants of the building from the potentially harmful gases and pathogens within the drainage system. All buildings, regardless of whether they are low rise or high rise, need correct drainage ventilation to allow the essential water trap seals to be maintained.

In high rise and complex drainage systems, there is additional stress placed on the water trap seals due to the increased loads into the system and the distances of the relief of the pressure regime is greater in time and distance in taller buildings.

NEGATIVE PRESSURE Conventional thinking in drainage venting is to deal with the negative pressure. This originates from the studies carried out by Hunter in 1920 (Hunter’s Curve), which only looked at steady state systems. The established thinking is that water trap seals are depleted due to siphonic action. The most common causes are self siphonage and induced siphonage.

Self siphonage A negative pressure transient occurs when there is a discharge of fixtures to which the water trap seal is connected. This can have the effect of reducing the trap seal (or pulling the trap). This occurs as the momentum acquired by the waste passes through the fixture and down the trap seal.

This momentum is transferred directly into the trap seal and trap seal loss occurs – commonly known as self siphonage.

Water seal diagram

Induced siphonage Other fixtures discharging in the building can also affect the trap seal. This occurs when there is a pressure fluctuation caused by a discharge of another fixture in the system, other than the fixture to which the trap is connected. This is commonly known as induced siphonage, which is very common in multi-storey buildings.

Defective water trap seal: RISKS HEALTH

require penetrations through the roof to allow the atmospheric air to balance the pressure transients within the sanitary drainage system, as well as the requirement for the pipe to carry this air. Research is proving that the current practice of using a 50 percent smaller vent pipe network is unsafe as this can lead to water trap seal depletion. The only correct and safe way to install a passive pipe vent system is where all vent pipes must be larger than the waste carrying pipes.

Alternatively, Air Admittance Valves (AAVs) can be installed at the point of need near the water trap seals that require protection.

This has the benefit of eliminating the vent pipe network, the space required, the roof penetrations and greatly simplifies the design of a large plumbing drainage system.

POSITIVE PRESSURE Whilst AAVs are very suitable to vent the negative pressures that are generated in the system (particularly with regard to branch venting), special consideration must also be given to positive pressure which occurs typically in high rise buildings. Traditional standards call for relief vents and open stack vents to provide positive pressure relief.

Active ventilation is an alternative solution which uses a combination of AAVs and the P.A.P.A. (Positive Air Pressure Attenuator).

Mini Vent group installation diagram

MAINTAINING THE WATER TRAP SEAL

Perfectly functional water trap seal: PROTECTS HEALTH

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Plumbing regulations call for the water trap seal on sanitary fixtures to be maintained at all times.

This is accomplished by the introduction of atmospheric air into the plumbing drainage system.

Venting with pipes has limitations, as open vents

May/June 2017

24/04/2017 16:28:19

CPD The Studor active ventilation system

Northampton Seeing is Believing test tower

• The removal of long, and possibly, convoluted vent connections to atmosphere reduces the time taken before local relief can be applied – allowing the pressures to be balanced quicker with active venting.

• Local suppression prevents transient propagation throughout the network prior to relief – removing the risk of the siphonage of multiple traps.

With traditional passive venting, reliance on roof penetrating open terminations allows transients to travel the whole system prior to any remedial action. The fundamental issue being that a transient should be dealt with between its source and the first appliance trap seal in order to prevent trap seal depletion.

SCIENTIFICALLY AND EMPIRICALLY PROVEN Only the blue drainage pipes remain –– saving space, materials and labour.

ACTIVE DRAINAGE VENTILATION The active drainage ventilation principle works by local intervention to remove or attenuate an incoming transient that, if left, would lead to trap seal depletion. This is achieved by placing AAVs and the P.A.P.A onto the standard pipes of the system to limit the surge pressures adjacent to the traps by reducing the rate of local changes in flow conditions. The placement of the AAVs and the P.A.P.A must be positioned between the source of the transient and the base of the stack; offsets are typical points to generate positive transients. The pipe calculations for loadings and gradients do not change when installing active drainage ventilation, so BS EN 12056 can still be used for the sizing of the system.

Active drainage ventilation reduces the effects of the negative and positive transients, balancing the pressure within the drainage

system – if the system pressure exceeds +/40mm WG (400Pa) the water trap seals can be lost by induced or self siphonage: • Negative pressure (transients) are dealt with through the introduction of local airflow using AAVs on the branches. Air is allowed in through the AAV as required, which then seals tight to prevent sewer gases from leaking out into the habitable space.

• Positive pressure (transients) are absorbed by the P.A.P.A., slowing them down from the speed of sound (320m/s) to a harmless 12m/s, which is then released back into the system to naturally dissipate.

ACTIVE VENTING VERSUS TRADITIONAL PASSIVE VENTING Active venting should be considered as functionally superior over traditional passive venting:

Extensive research by leading industry academics has repeatedly proven that active drainage ventilation (utilising the combination of AAVs and the P.A.P.A.) protects the water trap seals of high rise buildings without any of the limitations of the passive vent pipe solution.

Anyone wishing to see first-hand both systems operating is invited to attend a ‘Seeing is Believing’ test tower demonstration. Located at Studor’s Northampton facility, the test rig replicates the drainage system of a 40 storey building and incorporates valves to switch between an active vented system and a traditional passive vented system. More information and to register: www.studor.net/test-tower

Studor Ltd is a CIPHE Industrial Associate.

For more information visit www.studor.net

May/June 2017

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24/04/2017 16:28:49

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07/04/2017 11:15:38

CPD

HIGH RISE DRAINAGE VENTILATION QUESTIONS 1.

What is the purpose of the water trap seal?

2.

Why do water trap seals have more stress put on them in a high rise building?

3.

What is the principle behind maintaining a water trap seal?

4.

What is self siphonage?

5.

What is induced siphonage?

CIPHE members are expected to complete 30 hours of CPD each year. Completion of these assessments will count towards this requirement and CPD. To participate, simply return this assessment using any method you wish, such as fax, scan, email, photocopy, etc, (attach an additional A4 sheet if necessary).

Your name: __________________________________

6.

__________________________________

What is the principle of traditional passive ventilation?

CIPHE membership number: 7.

What is the principle of active ventilation?

__________________________________

Email: ___________________________ 8.

What are the limitations of a traditional passive vent system? __________________________________ __________________________________

9.

What are the benefits of an active vented system?

10. According to current research, in a traditional passive vent system how big should the vent pipes be to ensure a safe system?

Return to: CIPHE, 64 Station Lane, Hornchurch, Essex RM12 6NB Fax to: + 44 (0) 1708 448987 Email: info@ciphe.org.uk or please visit the members only area of the CIPHE website.

www.ciphe.org.uk/cpd

CPD certificates are awarded annually.

What’s in it for you?

As part of our work to improve your Journal, the CIPHE Communications Group wants to know how you view our CPDs. Email us with your comments to: kevinw@ciphe.org.uk

May/June 2017

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24/04/2017 16:38:01

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Proud to be a Professional CIPHE Membership Manager, Marie McCaffrey, offers guidance on how to plan and record your professional development.

M

any of you responded to a recent article/email calling on volunteers to submit details of their Continuing Professional Development (CPD), for review on an informal basis – thank you to those of you who made a submission.

However, many also wrote to me and asked for guidance on CPD and how to record it. In writing to you all, I mentioned the forthcoming launch of ‘mycareerpath®’; an online tool to help you plan and record your own CPD. Whether you attend an exhibition, seminar or read up on the latest changes in legislation or technology, it all constitutes CPD and can be recorded on mycareerpath®.

mycareerpath® can be used by anyone wishing to measure and track their own professional development. It can be used to upload and store supporting documents. It can also be used to help in tracking for progress towards registration with the Engineering Council as either an Engineering Technician, Incorporated Engineer or Chartered Engineer. mycareerpath® is ‘mobile friendly’ and adapts its display to the device being used.

Members can use smartphones, tablets and other devices to plan and record their Professional Development.

But please don’t worry if you prefer to use your own method of recording on paper or if you use another on-line tool from another professional body. These will all be accepted for assessment when the time comes for you to submit your evidence.

To access mycareerpath®, members can go to http://www.ciphe.org.uk/membersarea/members/mycareerpath/ . If visiting for the first time, there is a short registration section to complete in order to create your account, after which it is simply a case of selecting the category of a profile that you are using to record information against. That can be recording evidence of your continuing professional development, or for a grade of registration that you are working towards with the Engineering Council.

In order to work towards registration with the Engineering Council, click on EngTech,

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IEng or CEng to see the related competence and commitment criteria. You will be able to track your progress against each criterion.

ACTION PLANS The Action Plan Wizard will help you set up an action plan for your CPD. You don’t have to have an action plan but it is helpful when tracking your progress, whether it is working towards registration, a monthly plan or an outline for the coming year.

Keeping evidence is key to CPD and the Evidence Wizard is another useful tool.

You can upload photos, certificates, project reports or just write a few simple sentences to explain what you did and the benefits gained. Your evidence can also be linked to the relevant competence and commitment criteria for registration to help generate your Professional Review report.

You can use the Report Wizard to generate a report for your Institute, for a client or for your employer. Simply type in your given dates and mycareerpath® will compile a

report based on the evidence you have submitted for that period. You can then save the report as a pdf and send it to whoever has requested it.

Please note that all registrants of the Engineering Council are now obliged to submit details of their CPD to their Institute for assessment. The CIPHE is proposing to call members who are also registrants at random over the summer period. This means that when contacted, you should submit details of your CPD for 2016 for assessment. You will be given feedback on your submission.

MORE ADVICE If you require any further advice or guidance on mycareerpath® or CPD in general, please contact CIPHE Membership Manager, Marie McCaffrey at mariem@ciphe.org.uk If you would be willing to share your experiences of recording CPD and collecting evidence, please get in touch.

May/June 2017

28/04/2017 10:32

CIPHE

PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE

AGM

Proud to be a Professional The Engineering Council is the UK regulatory body for the engineering profession. The CIPHE is licensed to provide Chartered Engineer (CEng), Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and Engineering Technician (Eng Tech) registration.

Friday 30th June 2017 UIB Offices 69 Mansell Street London E1 8AN

T

he following members have met the internationally recognised standards of professional competence and are now registered with the Engineering Council as Engineering Technicians.

Jack James Boorman, Kent Austin Joseph Brady, Ireland Adam John Chapman, Hampshire Lik Tin Chan, Hong Kong Paul Robert Clohessy, West Midlands Neil Cook, South Yorkshire David Gammage, Kent Tsz Ho Lee, Hong Kong Richard Leeming, West Yorkshire Tyrone Tash, London Christopher J Snowden, Yorkshire Chung Yuen Wong, Hong Kong Yin Wai Jerry Wong, Hong Kong Yiu Chung Yiu, Hong Kong

ERROR In the January/February 2017 issue of p&he, the following members were noted as being successful in achieving registration with the Engineering Council at CEng. Please note that this was an error and that each member has been awarded Engineering Technician status.

Hong Ting Chan EngTech, New Territories, Hong Kong Jonathan Edward Miller EngTech, Ipswich Chi Hang Angus Mok EngTech, New Territories, Hong Kong Tsz Tat Wong EngTech, North Point, Hong Kong

Draft Programme 10.30 am Registration 11.00 am Annual General Meeting Presentations/seminars will follow, including: Trailblazer Apprenticeship – Kevin McCallister Legionella – David Harper Educational Program and Technical Activities – Paul Harmer Insurance Services − UIB Please contact Lesley Challis to register your intention to attend.

Email: lesleyc@ciphe.org.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1708 463115

BOARD OF TRUSTEE EXPENSE CLAIMS 2016 Name N Gale M Rooze N Jones C Stainer D Brindley T Stephenson E Wilson T Kite K McCallister

7,446.88

PRESIDENTS’ EXPENSE CLAIMS 2016 Name T Stephenson P Williams

Total 0.00 2,899.22 2,899.22

We apologise for any confusion this may have caused.

May/June 2017

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Total 3,966.87 1,635.34 0.00 467.15 471.99 117.60 0.00 248.80 539.13

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28/04/2017 12:44

TRAINING MATTERS

TRAINING MATTERS ALL THAT MATTERS IN THE TRAINING WORLD

WHAT DOES THE INDUSTRIAL STRATEGY REALLY MEAN FOR EDUCATION AND TRAINING? With Article 50 triggered, the countdown is on to bolster Britain’s manufacturing, engineering and technology (MET) sectors.

Jenni Preston

T

he Government’s Industrial Strategy is aiming to put the foundations in place for a strong and self-sufficient economy, in an area that has been long neglected by a succession of governments.

Not surprisingly, education is one of the pillars of the strategy.

In regard to developing skills, the government at least acknowledges the elephant in the room. The Industrial Strategy Green Paper states: ‘The United Kingdom has some of the top universities in the world and a larger proportion of our population have degree level qualifications than most of our competitors. However, technical education has been relatively neglected. A bewilderingly complex array of qualifications, some of which are poor quality, makes the system hard to use for students and employers.’

Many people won’t be surprised to hear that the UK ranks 16th out of 20 OECD* countries for the proportion of people with technical qualifications. The UK has long had skills shortages in sectors that depend on STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects. The plumbing and heating sector is just one of those feeling the pinch.

The Government is proposing a number of changes to create a new technical education system including: • Simplifying the range of qualifications on offer • Creating an easier means of finding and applying for technical courses (system similar to the UCAS system for universities) • Creating new Institutes of Technology to deliver higher level technical education throughout the UK

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• Encouraging people to take up STEM skills at all levels including university • Expanding the number of maths schools across the country • Ensuring universal basic numeracy • Identifying and addressing sector-specific skills gaps • Embedding the concept of lifelong learning • Creating wider opportunities for re-training throughout a person’s career • Involvement from industry and employers to shape what technical qualifications and curriculum should deliver • Improving the quality of the offering for lower level technical qualifications • Improving provision for higher level technical qualifications • Helping students make informed choices about career paths.

To achieve this, the Government proposes a number of interventions. First, looking to countries that are benchmarking excellence in technical education, such as Germany and Norway. They seem to have nailed a system whereby technical and academic routes sit side by side and produce quality qualifications and career paths for all. Let’s face it; why reinvent the wheel if we can copy something that is already tried and tested?

PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE Next, the Government proposes creating ‘clear, high quality routes for technical education’. In particular, the Government will establish 15 core technical routes.

The Green Paper goes on to say ‘Each route will start with high quality two-year programmes for 16 to 19-year olds and extend to the highest skills levels, leading to full professional competence in a number of

defined occupations. Students will be able to progress on the routes either through an apprenticeship or college-based provision.’

It is envisaged the first routes will be developed for September 2019.

We also need to make sure that our existing FE colleges are outstanding places to learn, driven forward by teachers who have a passion and aptitude to teach. Especially as their new bigger brother, the ‘Institutes of Technology’ will be stepping onto the scene, to deliver higher levels of training to undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

HIGHER SKILL LEVELS The Government is ploughing £170 million of funding into the new Institutes of Technology.

The hope is that they will take education forward within a clear single framework of approved technical qualifications at (NVQ) Levels 4 and above. This will allow young people who have studied technical qualifications while in full-time education, to progress to higher skill levels. Routes on offer will be at (NVQ) level 3, 4 and 5 (i.e. the equivalent of A-level to just below degree); and will favour qualifications that meet the skills needs of local employers.

In many ways this all sounds pretty common sense − technical education needs a serious overhaul and a lot of investment if we are to reinvigorate the MET industries.

However, saying you want to build a new system of technical education and implementing it to a good standard, with quality courses and curriculum can be two different things.

* Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

May/June 2017

27/04/2017 16:59

CIPHE INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATES

CIPHE EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

BONFIELD REVIEW – EACH HOME COUNTS

Paul Massey, Chairman of the Institute’s Industrial Associates Development Group (IADG), recaps on ways the CIPHE is working to deliver better training, development and opportunity throughout the year ahead.

Published in December 2016, the Bonfield Review reported on consumer advice, protection, standards and enforcement for energy efficiency and renewable energy. Roger Webb, Director of External Affairs for the CIPHE, discusses the story so far.

F

or the CIPHE and its members, this year has been successful. Largely, this is down to the continued investment being ploughed into our excellent Approved Training Centres (ATCs), mobile training Paul Massey, Chairman of facilities and online resources. Similarly, we the Industrial have built on relationships with other leading Associates Development Group bodies, such as the BMA and HHIC, providing better visibility and recognition for the Institute and its members.

This year has also been an exciting time for the industry to share thoughts and opinions with the CIPHE. This has been instrumental in the development of our own set of standards and principles – a recent example of this being the CIPHE-led ‘Consumer Compliance Health Check’ which will be formed using the views and feedback of the wider industry, to offer a relevant and helpful set of checks to provide a complete ‘MOT’ for the home’s plumbing, water, heating and renewables systems.

T

he main proposal is the establishment of a quality mark for all domestic energy efficiency and renewable energy measures, including all companies operating in the sector. It proposes a new framework which comprises: Roger Webb, CIPHE Director of • A Consumer Charter, to ensure that all External Affairs customers receive excellent service • A Code of Conduct, to set out how companies behave • Codes of Practice, which are relevant to the installation of individual measures.

The report also plans the creation of a new Information Hub, which will act as the collection point for best practice on standards, guidance, statistics and information approved under the new framework.

THE BARRIERS OF BONFIELD CONSUMER CONTACT There are more exciting developments on the horizon, including an expansion plan to team up with more consumer bodies, in addition to our current work with ‘Which?’, to facilitate the 360 degree communication the Institute has with the industry and protecting the end-user. For installers and apprentices, there will be more resource invested into our distance learning support and our college support programmes.To do this we are committed to working with IA members and leading manufacturers, as well as supporting educators and businesses to invest in apprentices with the help of the CIPHE.

PROMOTING OUR INDUSTRY Everything we do is on the behalf of all plumbing and heating engineers in the UK − to promote our industry and the people behind it in a positive and professional way. To move forward we ask IA members to join our development programme, encourage new members to take advantage of the resources and give feedback wherever possible.

For more information on how to join the ATC programme or to be a part of the college support programme, please contact Marie McCaffrey, Membership Manager at mariem@ciphe.org.uk

Proud to be a Professional As a group of companies and individuals, Industrial Associates (IAs) and members of the External Affairs Group (EAG), are committed to: • Supporting the CIPHE’s vision and values in our ever-changing industry.

• To promote professional products and services to the end user.

Richard Soper Director of International Development Email: richardsoper@ciphe.org.uk Tel: 07767 432522

Whilst the review had admirable objectives, the report does not address the barriers which had prevented previous, similar initiatives from being successful. It also does not consider what incentives would need to be introduced to encourage the industry and installers to participate. Additionally, there are serious concerns about who would pay for the new framework, as well as the impact it would have on installers by adding yet another layer of bureaucracy.

CIPHE’s ROLE Much of the heating industry is already well regulated. For example, the CIPHE works with a growing number of members to put training, development and consumer safety first. It is essential that these educational resources, held by the Institute and like-organisations, aim to support heating installers be aware of best practice principles, without making it harder for the already time-pressed professionals.

The CIPHE now has an important role to play with the immediate challenge of being seen to engage with the report’s follow up, which is being undertaken by the work streams that represent the various sectors covered by the review. The CIPHE will also continue to pursue its own initiatives to help overcome the barriers faced in delivering improved consumer service – a factor which led to the Bonfield Review being initiated and is at the heart of everything we do.

If you have any comments on the report, which can be accessed through www.gov.uk, please contact the CEO of the CIPHE, Kevin Wellman at kevinw@ciphe.org.uk

May/June 2017

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28/04/2017 10:47

BRANCH NEWS

Branch NEWS SUFFOLK

SUFFOLK PD EVENING

The Suffolk Branch held their Branch AGM and their first professional development evening of 2017 in March, at Westgate Ward Social Club.

Paul Brown and Toby Howard-Willis from J G Speedfit, gave a presentation of a wide range of plumbing fittings.

The AGM was held after the presentation; committee members including Chairman, Martin Wharmsby, were all re-elected and they are; Jack Baker, Ray Cantwell, Jane Cantwell, Micky Hunt, Chris Chapman and Nick Allen. Martin, Chris and Nick were presented with bronze badges for services to the Suffolk Branch.

Paul Brown (standing) and Toby Howard-Willis (sitting), J G Speedfit representatives

NORFOLK

NORFOLK BRANCH TECHNICAL WORKSHOP

For its first technical presentation of the year, Norfolk Branch members were introduced to the new range of controls designed and produced by J G Speedfit, by Paul Brown, Area Sales Manager and Toby Howard-Willis, the Technical Support Engineer for East Anglia.

Members enjoyed the presentation, enriching it with their questions and comments.

The Branch is also seeking a new secretary. If you are interested, please contact Chairman, Peter Ryland.

Toby Howard-Willis and Paul Brown at the Norfolk branch technical workshop

OBITUARY

Harold Glover, Past President of the IoP, 31st January 1919 to 12th February 2017 Harold started his working life in 1933 as an apprentice plumber in Warrington. When his training was complete he was conscripted into the Royal Engineers in 1939 and served throughout the Second World War; first with the British Expeditionary Force in France and then with the 8th and 1st Armies in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France again and finally, Germany.

He was wounded in action, earned four campaign medals and was recently awarded the Legion d'Honneur for his part in the liberation of France. After war service, Harold and his wife, May, moved to the south east where he pursued his career

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in the plumbing and building industry, as a technical college lecturer, consultant heating engineer and finally, as chief building engineer for the Copper Development Association where, among other projects, he helped develop the use of micro bore pipes in central heating systems.

Harold joined the Institute in 1940 and became President in 1966.

Upon retirement in 1977, he moved to Tenerife before returning to the town of his birth in the north west in early 2000. May, his wife of 76 years, passed away on Christmas Eve 2016. He is survived by his three children, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

May/June 2017

27/04/2017 17:02

17 & 18 May 2017 Alexandra Palace, London

Showcasing new technologies and best practice for over 23 years THE BEST PLACE TO FIND:  The largest dedicated installer series in the UK  Over 100 exhibitors from both the domestic & commercial sectors  Free seminars & training  Latest products & innovations  Expert installation advice  Show offers and discounts

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p29_phemay17.indd 1

07/04/2017 11:06:15

WHAT'S NEW

What’sNEW STUDOR MAXI-FILTRA The Maxi-Filtra is the innovative solution to eliminate noxious smells from external vent pipes.

Manufactured by Studor, expert in drainage ventilation, it is ideal for a wide range of applications, including septic tanks, grease separators, rainwater tanks, STPs, lifting equipment and building drainage open vents etc. It can be installed quickly both vertically or horizontally, using the push-fit connector provided. The integral two-way activated carbon filter is easily replaceable when required, by simply removing the cap of the MaxiFiltra. As air moves in both directions, the Maxi-Filtra eliminates all smells without compromising the operation of the drainage system.

0844 809 44 59

COMPREHENSIVE GRAB RAIL RANGE CAN’T BE BEATEN

The ultra-flexible, lightweight and easy to handle 10mm Layflat pipe by JG Speedfit is now available in 25-metre coil length along with the existing 50-metre coil. 10 mm Layflat pipe is extremely popular for household plumbing and is used extensively for joist cabling and central heating systems, particularly due to the ease of installation it offers in tight spaces and complex structures.

More often than ever, the new build trades are opting for JG Layflat pipe to carry out first fix plumbing installations for a quick and reliable job, completed in time.

Inclusive bathroom solutions supplier, AKW, offers a comprehensive range of grab rails in many configurations for installation as a mobility support in bathrooms, particularly for the elderly and disabled. The grab rails include fixed and fold-up steel and plastic versions, some fluted for additional grip and others with a smooth grip. All the grab rails can support loads up to 15.5 stone (100kg) with heavy duty versions rated to a maximum load of 30 stone (190kg). AKW is market leader in designing and manufacturing showers for those with disabilities, wet rooms, accessible bathrooms and kitchens. The company offers free surveying services and advice for grab rail installation.

www.akw-ltd.co.uk

www.speedfit-tech.co.uk

NEW ‘HOW TO POWERFLUSH’ SENTINEL VIDEO Dirty central heating systems are more likely to break down and cost homeowners more on their energy bills. To avoid this, Sentinel has created a step-by-step powerflushing video for installers. The video goes through all the essential stages of a best practice powerflush – making it the go-to technical resource for powerflushing – but also shows installers how to demonstrate the benefits of powerflushing to homeowners. The video features Sentinel’s new high performance and easy to operate JetFlush Rapid® machine, which is designed to help installers save time and hassle.

Installers can watch the new video by visiting Sentinel’s You Tube channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/sentinelperform

CHESTER CITY PLUMBING SUPPLIES PACKS IN SALES WITH SENTINEL The Chester branch of City Plumbing Supplies, has taken a proactive approach to heating system protection, customer service and sales by offering a best practice Sentinel water treatment pack with every boiler sold. With everything an installer needs to clean, protect and maintain a heating system in one box, the City Plumbing Supplies’ Sentinel pack makes achieving best practice water treatment straightforward. The pack includes Sentinel X800 Fast Acting Cleaner to remove installation debris or sludge build-up Sentinel X100 Inhibitor to prevent corrosion and limescale and X100 Quick Test Kit to check for adequate inhibitor levels. Sentinel’s filter, the Eliminator 22mm Quadra-Cyclone Filter, which removes both magnetic and non-magnetic debris from circulating water, is also included to provide added insurance against corrosion and limescale.

01928 704330

01928 704330

customer.services@sentinel-solutions.net

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Polypipe Ventilation’s Silavent HRX-aQ Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) appliance is a finalist in the H&V News Awards, in the Domestic Ventilation Product of the Year category. Polypipe Ventilation believes its Silavent HRX-aQ MVHR appliance cut through the competition because of its ability to intelligently manage air conditions, for maximum homeowner comfort. There are eight HRX-aQ models available to suit a wide range of residential properties, including units with a specialist heat exchanger technology to further improve air quality and provide comfortable humidity levels.

www.polypipe.com/ventilation

JG SPEEDFIT 10MM LAYFLAT PIPE NOW AVAILABLE IN 25-METRE COIL

|

POLYPIPE VENTILATION’S HRX-AQ MVHR SYSTEM, AWARD FINALIST

03443 715523

www.bystudor.com/maxi-filtra

30

This guide features the latest product launches and the most recent applications of plumbing and heating technology.

To advertise your product or project please contact Theresa Geeson on 01778 392046 or email theresag@warnersgroup.co.uk

journal

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customer.services@sentinel-solutions.net www.sentinelprotects.com

May/June 2017

28/04/2017 10:48

WHAT'S NEW DOMUS VENTILATION MVHR WALL UNITS WITH ‘BLUEBRAIN’ CONTROL Domus Ventilation, part of Polypipe, has introduced advanced ‘Bluebrain’ control to its wall mounted MVHR units. The new Domus HRX-D and HRX-2D units intelligently match ventilation rates to the internal environment and occupants’ requirements. This is achieved through advanced AMIE (Air Management for Indoor Environments) technology including digital humidity control, automated summer bypass and accurate system balancing. By measuring air humidity, the HRX-D’s extract speed automatically changes from background to boost as the level of humidity increases. The thermal (summer) bypass feature operates in a similar manner, allowing in cooler, fresh, filtered air, instead of distributing air which has been warmed from the waste energy extracted from the kitchen and wet rooms.

03443 715523

www.bluebrain.co.uk

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DUDLEY - the market leading bathroom and washroom product range includes Turbo 88™, the UK’s favourite syphon as well as the Hydroflo

COMBINATION BOILERS-FAULT FINDING & REPAIR John Reginald, author of the highly successful Central Heating - Fault Finding & Repair, has now released Combination Boilers - Fault Finding & Repair. The 150-page, A4 spiral-bound book with laminated front and back cover, is written in an easy-toread, easy-to-understand format, which takes the reader through the background and operation of each major component within combination boilers past and present.

Hydroflo Side Inlet Valve

 User-friendly design  Proven reliability

  Call 0121 530 7000 or visit

The comprehensive fault-finding logic guides provide professional solutions allowing you to repair and service combi boilers with a greater understanding and with more confidence.

Priced at £26.00, incl. P&P. To order your copy visit any leading online retailer, highstreet bookshop or order from the publisher at: www.combiboilerrepair.co.uk

 Trusted by the trade for over 40 years

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Reassuring warranty*

Made in the UK

Easy to fit and service

*To qualify for warranty, register the purchase of products within 14 days of purchase at: www.dudleybathroomproducts.co.uk

CENTRAL HEATING-FAULT FINDING & REPAIR From simple to more complex faults, author John Reginald, takes the reader on a journey through central heating and domestic hot water sysytems. The manual’s aim is to instil a better understanding of the systems to achieve professional solutions to professional standards.

Central Heating-Fault Finding & Repair consists of logical stepby-step guides that take the reader through the fault finding and repair process.

The fault logic guides are easy to read and indicate which section of the manual deals with the background and repair of that fault.

Priced at £26.00, incl. P&P. To order your copy visit any leading online retailer, highstreet bookshop or order from the publisher at: www.centralheatingrepair.co.uk

May/June 2017

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07/04/2017 12:19

Advance solution Advance Electric Combination Boiler for wet electric central heating and mains hot water in one pre-plumbed and pre-wired package.

Run up to five radiators plus one bath and one shower. Wireless programmer fitted.

YEAR

GUARANTEE

10

ONLY

ÂŁ1390 PLUS VAT

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

01543 377723 www.advanceappliances.co.uk p32_phemay17.indd 1

07/04/2017 11:05:14