PHE Journal Sept/Oct 2018 by PHE

Helping you maintain and prove your competence

12/26

Underfloor heating training and installation

September/October 2018

For plumbing & heating engineering professionals

Putting the case for copper pipework

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www.ciphe.org.uk

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CONTENTS 11

Helping you maintain and prove your competence

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04 08

For plumbing & heating engineering professionals

10 11

Putting the case for copper pipework

CIPHE

Underfloor heating training and installation

September/October 2018

Message from the CEO CIPHE Member Services – promoting your professional skills CIPHE National President − pride in our profession Qualifications and learning – how the CIPHE recognises your competence

REGULARS Page 16

www.ciphe.org.uk

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06 12 14 27 28 30

News techtalk − underfloor heating smarttalk − expanding your business through franchising Training Matters – questioning the quality of apprenticeships External affairs reports What’s new

18 FEATURES 16 18 20 23 24 26

In this issue: The CIPHE thanks the following Industrial Associates for their contributions to this issue: Rinnai UK Xylem UK JG Speedfit

PUBLISHING EDITOR: Juliet Loiselle

SUBSCRIPTIONS: p&he is free to members of the CIPHE. Non-members – £120.00 per year (six issues). Overseas – £145.00 per year

Warners Group Publications EDITOR: Nicky Rogers Warners Group Publications MULTIMEDIA ACCOUNT MANAGER: Jordan Paylor Warners Group Publications PRODUCTION: Sue Ward Warners Group Publications DESIGN: Amanda Clare HEAD OFFICE EXECUTIVE TEAM CEO: Kevin Wellman T: +44 (0) 1708 463115 E: kevinw@ciphe.org.uk

www.facebook.com/ CIPHE.UK

HEAD OF FINANCE: Natasha Fallows T: +44 (0) 1708 463109 E: natashaf@ciphe.org.uk MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR: Tim Sainty

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

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CIPHE technical advice The email address for any technical advice is technical@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

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

COVER STORY − putting the case for copper pipework Modular ground source heat pump systems Continuous flow hot water heating units versus stored hot water systems Working towards greater water supply safety The smart approach to fire prevention The three key phases to a UFH project

READERSHIP: There are over 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. © 2018 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.

T: +44 (0) 1708 463102 E: tims@ciphe.org.uk LEAD TECHNICAL CONSULTANT: Paul Harmer E: paulh@ciphe.org.uk

PRINTED BY WARNERS 01778 395111

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MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

LICENSE TO PRACTICE

Kevin Wellman, CIPHE CEO, suggests that mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD) could be the way to guarantee competency and a highly skilled workforce.

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

n recent weeks, there have been increasing discussions about the virtues of licensing. Understandably, such discussions have emanated from the growing concerns regarding skills shortages and questions about competency, or more importantly, the lack of it! I have reported previously on the skills shortage, in fact I have been voicing my concerns regarding this for some years now. As part of the ongoing support for action post-Grenfell, there are 12 working groups reviewing all manner of competencies and they are working tirelessly to produce procedures that will raise and maintain skillsets in the future. The involvement of professional engineering institutes, such as the CIPHE, will be pivotal in supporting individual engineers through career progression and Continuing Professional Development. Indeed, this was one of the recommendations within Dame Hackitt’s report: ‘Building a Safer Future’. Because of the support available to individual members, now is a particularly important time to belong to the CIPHE. Professions that deal directly with the safety and health of the public are, quite justifiably, regulated. However, it comes as a surprise to some people that it is illegal for individuals, other than registered farriers, to call themselves a farrier or to carry out any farriery work (Farriers (Registration) Act 1975). The primary aim of the Act is to ‘prevent and avoid suffering by and cruelty to horses arising from the shoeing of horses by unskilled persons’. It seems somewhat disingenuous that unskilled individuals are not permitted to shoe a horse, but incompetent plumbing and heating installers can wreak havoc on the public within their homes and places of work!

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PROACTIVE APPROACH TO LICENSING The counter-argument over many years has been that a license to practice or statutory registration would be costly, bureaucratic, anti-competitive and against fair trade. However, what cannot be argued is that the consequences of poorly installed and badly maintained plumbing and heating systems can be detrimental to the safety, welfare and health of the public and in extreme circumstances can be fatal. Other countries have a proactive approach to licensing including New Zealand, USA, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong. Enforcement is, of course, a key issue with fines ranging from thousands of pounds to imprisonment, now that is what I call an incentive to comply! In Germany, it is the actual training that is regulated, which results in individuals attaining Master (Meister) Craftsman recognition. In view of these stringent controls there is not a perceived need for a license to practice.

MANDATORY CPD In the UK there is a clear need for change. Solutions could include developing a single new simple, coherent and centralised registration system for plumbing/heating businesses and individual installers. This is achievable through protection of title, embracing minimum competences enforced by scheme operators. Integral to the scheme should be ongoing Continuing Professional Development, which is mandatory rather than voluntary. A level playing field means such training should be widespread across the entire industry. Much needs to be done to convince civil servants and Government about the benefits of regulation, especially now with the focus on Brexit. In building a case for mandatory licensing it is essential to build a portfolio of evidence. Your assistance in developing the case is vital, so if you have seen examples of badly installed, poorly maintained or unsafe plumbing and heating systems, please contact me.

Unskilled individuals are not permitted to shoe a horse, but incompetent plumbing and heating installers can wreak havoc on the public

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NEWS

TheNEWS WATER FIRMS MUST IMPROVE PERFORMANCE ON TACKLING LEAKS At a meeting in July, water companies were ordered by Environment Secretary, Michael Gove, to “raise the bar” on tackling leaks. Industry body, Water UK, said that firms are using satellite technology, drones and underground listening equipment to identify leaks, many firms have doubled the number of teams dedicated to tackling the problems and they are also planning “ambitious” targets for tackling leaks. The meeting was called following low levels in some reservoirs. The hot, dry summer has been blamed by the industry for causing some of the problems as the ground dries out and moves, weakening joints and cracking pipes. Water UK Chief Executive, Michael Roberts, said: “Leakage is a big priority for the industry and since the mid-1990s companies have reduced leakage levels by a third. “But we also know there is more to do, which is why water companies are developing ambitious plans to cut leakage even further. After the meeting, Mr Gove said: “I met the heads of a range water companies, specifically those where leakage has been an issue. “While extreme weather events do pose a challenge to the industry, they are a consequence of climate change with which we all have to deal. We all agreed water companies must do more to adapt and prepare for changing weather patterns. “I have asked the companies to raise the bar on tackling leaks and agree ambitious new targets when they submit their business plans to Ofwat in September. “The Government, Ofwat and customers expect water companies to improve their performance.” Water firms present at the meeting were South Staffordshire (also representing their subsidiary Cambridge water), Bristol, Severn Trent, Thames, Yorkshire, Essex and Suffolk (via their parent company Northumbrian), Portsmouth and United Utilities.

ALL THAT’S HAPPENING IN THE PLUMBING & HEATING WORLD

PRISON FOR ROGUE TRADER A rogue trader has been sentenced to 16 months in prison after he carried out unsafe gas work while falsely claiming to be Gas Safe Registered. Nottingham Crown Court heard that Richard Trezise was prosecuted following investigations by Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors at seven different locations where the Gas Safe Register had been alerted to unsafe work. Mr Trezise had produced Landlord’s Gas Safety Certificates and falsely claimed to be Gas Safe Registered by using the registration number of another business who had never heard of him. He left customers with faulty installations that presented risks of gas leaks and dangerous accumulations of the products of combustion. A HSE investigation found that, between May 2015 and July 2016, Richard Trezise had carried out work whilst unregistered and whilst falsely pretending to be Gas Safe Registered in Nottinghamshire, Mid Glamorgan, Gwent and Yorkshire. This was contrary to the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 and in breach of a prohibition notice previously served on Mr Trezise. Richard Trezise had previously pleaded guilty to 21 offences under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 in Nottingham Magistrates Court. He was today sentenced to a 16 months prison and a concurrent 28 day sentence for not attending the court hearing.

VIESSMANN’S CHRISTIAN ENGELKE ELECTED TO CHAIRMAN OF THE MCS MCHP WORKING GROUP Viessmann Technical Director, Christian Engelke, has been elected to the position of Chairman of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) Micro CHP (MCHP) Working Group.

He said: “I am looking forward to raising awareness of the opportunities presented by the wider deployment of micro CHP products in the UK. I will address the low uptake of MCS certification by installers and work towards improving the process for introducing innovative micro CHP products to the market, such as small scale fuel cells. I will lead the MCS’s efforts to put micro CHP back on the Government agenda and raise its profile in Christian Engelke, Viessmann Technical Director

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the policy areas of housebuilding and air quality. Micro CHP should be on par with renewables as an alternative low carbon, low NOx solution and as an improvement on traditional gas heating products.” Viessmann has driven its Vitovalor 300-P domestic fuel cell system through the MCS process over the past few years and even became MCS-registered itself in order to undertake early product installations. The now MCS-listed product is supported by European PACE funding and is covered by the Government’s feedin-tariff.

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NEWS

XYLEM MAKES IT MARK WITH WATER INITIATIVES Xylem teams across the UK & Ireland have had a successful few months of awareness and fundraising activity as part of the company’s corporate citizenship and social investment programme, Watermark. Kieran Gagg, Watermark Ambassador for UK & Ireland, said: “Our team is doing an amazing job this year. It is truly uplifting to see so many people getting behind such a good cause, while also making a difference in their own communities.” In Scotland, a 12-strong team of volunteers cleaned the area surrounding the Kelpies, the world’s largest equine structures at The Helix, an eco-park that stretches between Falkirk and Grangemouth. Other initiatives have included the construction of a roadway at Ash Lock on the Basingstoke Canal, and lock painting and canal clean-up on the Banbury Canal. Watermark was launched by Xylem to provide safe water and education to communities around the world. It undertakes projects and charitable initiatives each year to raise money for, and awareness of, a range of waterCleaning up the Kelpies based issues.

CCC RECOMMENDATIONS ON DECARBONISING OFF-GRID HEAT FAIL TO ADDRESS REALITY OFTEC has written to the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) expressing major disappointment that, despite clear evidence showing heat pumps are not providing a viable route to decarbonising heat from off-grid homes, the Government’s advisory body has still endorsed this approach in its latest report. The recently published ‘Reducing UK emissions: 2018 Progress Report to Parliament’ states that ‘cost-effective and low-regret opportunities exist for heat pumps to be installed in homes and businesses that are off the gas grid’, even though the report later admits that ‘the domestic heat pump market remains stagnant, accounting for under one percent of annual heating’. OFTEC’s letter sets out the now widely accepted reasons for the low take up of heat pumps across the off-grid sector, including the inherent poor energy efficiency of the large majority of rural housing stock, the high upfront installation costs of heat pumps, and the impracticality of installing these systems in a retrofit and often ‘distress purchase’ situation. These concerns have been further substantiated in reports over the last few months from the Public Accounts Committee and National Audit Office into the failings of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme. OFTEC CEO Paul Rose said: “Heat pumps in certain circumstances such as highly insulated new build properties, can work well, but in the off-grid sector these opportunities are few and far between. We firmly believe the best solution for these homes is to migrate to a reduced carbon liquid fuel. However to make this a reality, industry needs to know government is behind us. “OFTEC burner manufacturer members have already successfully tested the second generation sustainable fuel Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) in various blends up to 100 percent with no equipment modifications required. This fuel is currently in volume production. “Government and industry’s efforts should now be aligned and focused on developing solutions which have the potential to deliver tangible, sustainable results towards the UK’s carbon reduction targets.”

MP SEES GAS APPRENTICES IN ACTION

Steve Willis Training Centres welcomed Havant MP, Alan Mak, to their Portchester Training Centre in August. He was there to find out about apprenticeship training and was met by MD Steve Willis and Gary Robinson from local heating company, Aura Gas. Aura have three gas apprentices about to complete the first year of their apprenticeships and Alan was keen to find out about the training programme. He toured the centre, watched the gas class in action and then chatted to two of the apprentices over coffee. Billy Simmonds, 17, and Frankie Small, 20, both from Havant, told the MP about why they chose to start their careers in the gas industry with an apprenticeship and how they are enjoying their training. Alan said: “I’m committed to boosting apprenticeships, as they give young people the opportunity to learn a valuable skill while earning at the same time and raise the productivity of businesses. Our apprentices are the future of our economy.” Havant MP, Alan Mak, chats to apprentices at the Steve Willis Portchester Training Centre

PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE

The Engineering Council is the UK regulatory body for the engineering profession. The CIPHE is licensed to provide Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and Engineering Technician (EngTech) registration. The following members have met the internationally recognised standards of professional competence and are now registered with the Engineering Council. EngTech Matthew Stonehouse MCIPHE, Halesowen Paul Alan Jones MCIPHE, Wrexham Paul Dodds MCIPHE, Bedford James Douglas MCIPHE, London

Paul Rose, OFTEC CEO

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MEMBER SERVICES

PROMOTE YOUR PROFESSIONAL SKILLS Tim Sainty, CIPHE Membership Director tims@ciphe.org.uk +44 (0) 1708 463102

Tim Sainty, CIPHE Membership Director, explains how the CIPHE is helping its members prove and promote their skills and competency.

REGISTERED PLUMBERS AND REGISTERED HEATING PROFESSIONALS

ou may have recently read articles from the CIPHE on the subject of licensing for members of the UK plumbing and heating industry. (See page 4 of this issue for example). The CIPHE has long believed that a statutory licensing scheme in the UK would raise professional standards, reduce the number of public health issues arising from plumbing and increase protection for consumers, while also delivering benefits for the qualified and registered professionals working in the industry. In fact, the CIPHE already has stewardship of the longest established Register of Plumbers in the UK and it is coming up to a milestone that we intend to celebrate. Originally established in 1886 by the Worshipful Company of Plumbers and then cared for by the CIPHE since 1970, a grand total of 69,963 Registered Plumbers have been recorded, meaning there are just 37 more required until we reach 70,000. As the professional lives of those working in the plumbing and heating trades converged, the CIPHE also introduced recognition for Registered Heating Professionals in 2010 and 826 individuals have been rewarded with this in the period since.

CAN YOU REGISTER? Becoming a Registered Plumber or a Registered Heating Professional is completely free of charge to any member of CIPHE who is suitably qualified and experienced. The requirements to become a Registered Plumber are as follows: • City & Guilds Craft or Advanced Craft Certificates in Plumbing (or equivalent);

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• NVQ Levels 2 or 3 Plumbing Mechanical Engineering Services (or equivalent); • Relevant sanitary domestic plumbing experience (minimum of five years with no formal qualification, but endorsed by trade references); or • Water Regulations Certificate. To become a Registered Heating Professional requires: • City & Guilds Advanced Craft certificate; • NVQ Level 3 Plumbing Mechanical Engineering Services; or • NVQ Heating/Heating and Ventilation.

If you are not yet an RP or RHP but believe you are eligible, or would just like to know more, then please contact the CIPHE Membership Department on membership@ciphe.org.uk or +44 (0) 1708 463 116. If you are already recognised as RP or RHP and would like to do some promotional work about your professional life, then you can call me directly on +44 (0) 1708 463 102.

Depending on heating specialities, it also requires registration with recognised bodies such as Gas Safe for working with gas, OFTEC for oil and HETAS for solid fuels. Both registrations also require an ongoing commitment to relevant Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

WHAT WILL IT MEAN? Becoming a Registered Plumber entitles the individual to use the designatory letters ‘RP’ after their name and a Registered Heating Professional can use ‘RHP’. Both titles provide further information to the general public about the advanced skills and knowledge that you possess and can lead to further opportunities for you and your business. Today, there are 4,360 active members recognised as Registered Plumbers and there are 502 Registered Heating Professionals. CIPHE can support you to make either qualification part of your own CPD programme.

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MEMBER SERVICES

PROMOTING THE CIPHE MEMBERS’ BRAND AND ELIMINATING POOR PRACTICE

ll too often, the plumbing and heating profession gets a bad name and it’s frequently down to poor workmanship or overcharging by people not qualified to call themselves a plumber. This month has already seen research by the Water Regulation Advisory Scheme (WRAS) reveal the counties with the most complaints made to Trading Standards departments about plumbers. Although the CIPHE has complaints and disciplinary procedures in place, complaints from members of the public against CIPHE members are, thankfully, rare. But it seems that the public is not quite getting the message when it comes to using properly qualified and experienced professionals and only find out the risk when it’s too late.

Being able to use the CIPHE logo and the designatory letters shows that you have been assessed and are competent to a high standard and by being members of the CIPHE, you agree to abide by a Code of Professional Standards by way of commitment to good working practices. This means that you will: • Perform professionally, competently and responsibly; • Safeguard the environment and public health and safety; • Comply with all relevant laws, regulations, standards and codes; • Broaden, improve and maintain your skills, knowledge and personal qualities; and • Uphold the dignity, standing and reputation of the Institute and the plumbing mechanical engineering services industry.

That’s quite a lot to expect the public to take on board but collectively, by promoting your membership of the CIPHE, members of the public will recognise the CIPHE logo as the benchmark for professionalism. So members, use your logo with pride. Updated copies are available by using the merchandise order form, emailing info@ciphe.org.uk or by calling +44 (0) 1708 472 791. And non-members, why not join us today and take your own stand against unprofessionalism? For further details on membership, email membership@ciphe.org.uk or call the Membership Department on +44 (0) 1708 463 116.

RAISE THE PROFILE OF YOUR BUSINESS AND REACH MORE CUSTOMERS – CIPHE MEMBERS CAN JOIN WATERSAFE TODAY

aving just run a Facebook campaign to raise its profile with thousands of consumers nationwide, there has never been a better time for CIPHE members to take advantage of the membership benefit that means they can join WaterSafe and be listed on the national register of WaterSafe approved plumbers.

Backed by all the UK water companies and the drinking water regulators, WaterSafe provides an online search facility for customers who are looking for a qualified, professional plumber anywhere in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you’re registered as an ACP (Water Regulations Approved Contractor Person)

with the CIPHE you can also be registered with WaterSafe free of charge (an application form is required). Find out more about registering with WaterSafe through your CIPHE membership at https://www.ciphe. org.uk/professional-members/professionalsupport/watersafe/. To become an Approved Contractor Person, members of the Institute must be enrolled as a Registered Plumber (see page 8) and also: • Pass a recognised test of knowledge competence in the Water Regulations; • Possess public liability insurance cover to the value of £2m; and • Undertake five hours Water Regulations (Water Byelaws in Scotland) Continuing Professional Development (CPD). For more information on WaterSafe visit watersafe.org.uk or call CIPHE on +44 (0) 1708 472 791 for further assistance. If you are on social media channels, then connect with WaterSafe on Facebook and Twitter for news and updates via @WaterSafeRegister/@WatersafeUK

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NATIONAL PRESIDENT

PRIDE IN THE PROFESSION Tracey Richardson, CIPHE National President, celebrates with award winning apprentices and applauds their pride in their chosen profession.

Tracey Richardson, CIPHE National President

lthough I only took over the role of CIPHE National President at the end of June, I had already been asked to represent the CIPHE as a judge at the Screwfix Apprentice of the Year award at the end of April, at the Google headquarters in London. It was very pleasing to see some apprentice plumbers that had made the final and it was a very close-fought contest, so much so that it saw the introduction of two highly commended awards; both of these were awarded to two Level 2 female plumbing students; Lauren Winter from Coventry and Jessica Middleton from Uxbridge. One of these young ladies, Lauren Winters, has been proudly showing off her CIPHE trainee certificate on Twitter, so she already is displaying pride in the profession, which is extremely encouraging. She is already becoming quite an ambassador for women in the trade.

SKILLPLUMB At the CIPHE AGM on 29th June, I took up the prestigious role of President of the CIPHE, which is an amazing honour. It was lovely to speak to so many of the members that attended the event and equally as nice to be invited to some of their events throughout the year. The first invitation

came from the Surrey Branch who invited me to their 60th anniversary dinner, this is a fantastic milestone and I very much look forward to joining them as they celebrate. The following day saw my first official occasion as President, when I was invited to join the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors’ (APHC) National President, Graham Beevers, for his President’s dinner in Nantwich. I have met Graham on several occasions previously through my work as a judge on the SkillPlumb competitions. Graham is a trustee of the BPEC charity, which organises the SkillPlumb events. Throughout July, I carried out interviews for various magazines and went to the last of the regional heats for SkillPlumb at Coleg Sir Gar, Ammanford Campus. This was also the Welsh final.

TOP TRADESPERSON JUDGING At the end of July, I was invited to attend the Screwfix Top Tradesperson as one of the judges, which again was another interesting competition. The winner was Stuart Roache, a carpenter/plumber from Northampton. Again, there were two highly commended awards given out; notably, one went to a young entrepreneur and gas engineer from Nuneaton called Ben Kutcha, who through his work in the gas industry, has invented

Stuart Roache, the Screwﬁx Top Tradesperson

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Jessica Middleton, highly commended in the Screwﬁx Apprentice of the Year awards a safety device to protect customers from the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning. The device was trialled in 2017 and won the H&V News Awards for Safety Initiative of the Year. He explained that during the trials, one of the devices was actually activated in the first week and showed readings above 900ppm. If this situation had been left undetected it could have had fatal consequences in around two to three hours. I have been invited to represent the CIPHE at several other events in the coming months, including ATC plaque presentations, all of which I will report in the next issue.

SkillPLUMB 2018 at Coleg Sir Gar, Ammanford Campus

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QUALIFICATIONS

COMPETENCE AND MEMBERSHIP Marie McCaffrey, Membership Manager

Marie McCaffrey, CIPHE Membership Manager, advises members on the various routes to professional qualifications.

n my columns over the past year, I have written about the importance of Continuing Professional Development, training and development, upgrading your membership (including guidance on the new criteria for becoming a Fellow of the CIPHE) and registration with the Engineering Council. I have also provided you with information about how to work towards the prestigious awards of Master Plumber, Journeyman and Apprentice, jointly awarded by the CIPHE, the Worshipful Company of Plumbers and City & Guilds. The common theme that cuts across all of these subjects is competence, or rather the recognition and celebration of it.

HOW IS COMPETENCE DEFINED? According to the HSE, competence can be described as ‘the combination of training, skills, experience and knowledge that a person has and their ability to apply them to perform a task safely.’ As far as the Engineering Council is concerned, its definition is ‘the ability to carry out a task to an effective standard. Its achievement requires the right level of knowledge, understanding and skill, as well as a professional attitude. It is part of the requirement (along with commitment) that must be demonstrated in order for an individual to be admitted to the Engineering Council’s Register at the relevant level.’ So how is competence determined and achieved? It is highly likely that most of our members have followed one of two routes to get where they are today; either by attending college or by learning ‘on the job’ (or probably a combination of the two), but that’s only the beginning.

In each case, some form of assessment or verification has to follow. • Assessment is undertaken by appropriately qualified assessors and verifiers associated with the relevant awarding bodies. • Verification relies on the voice of experience passed from one generation to another.

Level 3: Competence which involves the application of knowledge in a broad range of varied work activities performed in a wide variety of contexts, most of which are complex and non-routine. There is considerable responsibility and autonomy and control of guidance for the work of others is required.

CAREER PATH

Level 4: Competence which involves the

Nevertheless it is clear in both cases that an ‘apprentice’ requires sufficient theoretical knowledge and understanding to underpin the practical aspects of the task in hand. As with the engineering profession as a whole, throughout one’s career there are various certifications to work towards that demonstrate acquired knowledge and understanding, which underpins the competence to do the job. However, it is really only in doing the job where one can fully demonstrate competence and only in the workplace where one can demonstrate that competence is being maintained.

application of knowledge in a broad range of complex technical professional work activities performed in a wide variety of contexts and with a substantial degree of personal responsibility and autonomy. Responsibility for the work of others and the allocation of resources is often present.

LEVELS OF COMPETENCE There are different levels of competence, as highlighted in the CIPHE Regulations, largely differentiated by the depth and breadth of the engineering knowledge required and the level of responsibility, autonomy and management as follows: (No Level 1). Level 2: Competence which involves the application of knowledge in a significant range of varied work activities, performed in a variety of contexts. Some of the activities are complex or non-routine and there is some individual responsibility or autonomy. Collaboration with others, perhaps through membership of a work group or team, may often be a requirement.

Level 5: Competence which involves the application of a significant range of fundamental principles across a wide and often unpredictable variety of contexts. Very substantial personal autonomy and often significant responsibility for the work of others and for the allocation of substantial resources feature strongly, as does personal accountability for analysis and diagnosis design, planning, execution and evaluation. These levels, of course, relate to the categories of CIPHE membership. • Which level would you be at if you had to determine your own competence today? • Do you think that the category of membership originally awarded to you is still relevant or accurate? The CIPHE is currently contacting members who we have identified as being suitable to upgrade their membership category. If you think that you should upgrade your membership too then please contact me directly on mariem@ciphe.org.uk or +44 (0) 1708 463 104.

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with Paul Harmer Lead Technical Consultant CIPHE CEng MIET

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Discharge from unvented hot water storage cylinders into plastic pipework.

Underfloor heating training and installation that safeguards the consumer

One of the main purposes of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering is to protect the safety and health of the public by raising standards through Harmer,Technical CIPHE Lead Technical Consultant, explains how training can make a difference education. Paul Paul Harmer, to the qualityon and safety of underfloor heating (UFH) design and installation. Director of the CIPHE, comments the latest report issued by the British Plastic Federation (Pipe It is critical to supply the consumer with a fit-for-purpose and efficient Typically, a six-metre head pump is supplied as part the UFH group) on unvented hot water UFH system and installers can do this if they ensure the relationships pump station. However, the question is what can this pump discharge pipe termination. between each component of the system are understood.

actually deliver to the UFH system?

PRESSURE DROP(kPa) (kPa) Pressure DROP

“Plumbing and heating installers are regularly faced installers with the get their products from multiple However, as many There are various parts of the UFH system that restrict flow, temptation of terminating the sources, for example a heat pump from one manufacturer and including thermostatic mixing valves, manifolds and isolators, unvented hot water safety discharge the UFH system from another, the overall design can become as well as the UFH pipe loop within the floor. A mixing valve can pipe into a plastic soil stack for ease disconnected. By applying some basic knowledge when create a pressure loss across the valve as high as 55 kPa with a of installation. installing the system, installers can ensure that the end-user flow rate of 24 litres per minute (Figure 1). In addition to this, However, the recent tests carried out willon bebehalf happyof with the overall operation and effi ciency. the manifold and isolators could create a pressure loss of 11 kPa the BPF Pipe Group and the UFH pipe loop may have also been designed at 20 kPa. suggests that only D2 discharge Pipe sizing pipes installed using a plastic pipe material compliant withUFH theschemes BS EN are designed and There are instances where Doing the maths 1451-1:2000 standard canonly be used. supplied to the installer that cover the design of the UFH Once each of the main resistances to flow are added together, This may be achievable in a new and not the rest of the heating system. With this in mind, it is the total pressure loss in the example reaches 86 kPa: build situation whereby thethe correct important that installers select correct primary pipe size to soil stack waste pipework feed the UFHor manifold and pumpmaterial station from the boiler. Largest UFH circuit pressure loss = 20 kPa can be verified from the outset, UFH manifold and isolator pressure loss = 11 kPa however, it could be deemed a risk If an installer decided to install 22mm copper pipework for the Thermostatic mixing valve pressure loss = 55 kPa in retrofit applications due to the primary flow and return circuit of 30 metres to a 12 port manifold Total pressure loss = 86 kPa lack of knowledge of the existing The purpose of this short guide is installed toatsafely discharge the − which has been designed to deliver 24 litres per minute peak plastic pipe material”. draw attention thepoint imporwaterofin32the − then pressure loss could be experienced in excess kPaevent in of serious With this in mind, it istopossible to plot thetoduty onto a tance of good design and instalover-heating. As set out in BS EN theSituation primary pipework alone and cause problems down the line. Grundfos UPS2 15/50/60 (Figure 2) using the following data: when discharging into 1490: 2000 (Building pressure valves. loss 86 kPa,lation flow rate 24 l/min. plastic pipework systems. To comply with the Building Combined temperature and Generally, a UFH system will be supplied with a combined Regulations for England and Wales, pressure relief valves. Tests and thermostatic mixing valve and pump, which is designed to deliver What this means the Water Supply (Water Fittings) requirements), the nominal set The British Plastics Federation (BPF) the Regulations required headand of pressure to theWater UFH. This is in addition to Using the above example, it doesn't take long to realise the Scottish temperature range at which temperature Pipes Group and its members mixing the water to water the predefi nedwith and designed flow temperature. that a UFH system with larger manifolds, Byelaws, a hot system a and pressure relief valves arewhen set to designingstrongly advise that compliance a small temperature diff erence between the flowlisted and return operate is between 90°C to 95°C. storage vessel must incorporate with the product standards in Figure 1 and a UFH fl oor construction that requires a greater flow precautions to: (a) prevent the this guide is verified by a third Under these controlled conditions, temperature, the integral supplied with the temperature of the Full return ﬂow water stored in party pump certification scheme (forUFH pump safety relief discharge pipework from to boiler the vesselNoatreturn anyﬂow time exceeding station may not be capable of delivering enough heat to the example, the BSI Kitemark). unvented hot water storage systems up boilerensure that any 100°C; andto (b) heat emitter. to 410 litres (500 litres nominal) discharge from safety devices is Good plumbing design capacity can be drained to plastic safely conveyed to where it is As a result, sanitary pipework. Attention needs it tomay be difficult for the installer to diagnose if a visible, but will not cause a danger system is suffering a lack of available pump pressure, be paid to the plumbingUFH design. The from configuration of the safety to persons in or about the building. e.g. the consumer and installer may suspect that relief discharge pipework, forthe selection [Note: Uncontrolled temperature discharge To prevent the temperature of of the UFH system type was incorrect ratherfrom than arealising discharge of hot water valve it such as that from pressure relief valves stored water exceeding 100°C, a may sanitary be simply due to high pressure In certain through a metallosses. discharge pipe examples, should not be drained through temperature relief valve or a pipework as temperaturesthe could reach in (D1) to the DN22 into lack of available headofofdiameter pressure up from UFH pump is combined temperature and excess of 100°C but in anybeing case is not sanitary pipework, shown supported byplastic the primary heating pumpisthat may be pressure relief valve needs to be permitted under G3]. in the diagram on page 7. MIXED WATER FLOW RATE (l/min) acting in series. 12

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Figure 2 kPa

UPS2 15-50/60 130, 50Hz Pumped liquid = Water Liquid temperature during operation = 60OC Density = 983.2 kg/m3

eta (%)

Maximum available head pressure for 24 l/min or 1.44m3/h = 42.5 (kPa)

pecific points of good plumbing ractice are highlighted: Specific points of good plumbing practice are highlighted:

The use of tested and approved elf-sealing waterless valves for onnecting to internal sanitary Theyear, use the of tested and heat approved ipework is helpful when noting it is that throughout1)the It is worth building self-sealing waterless valves for mpractical to route the discharge demand varies and so does the required flow rate. Therefore, connecting to internal sanitary ipework directly to an external problems may only be noticed during the colder months pipework is helpful whenwhen it is oint in a visible location. Q[m3/h]

impractical route the the system requires the peak maximum flowto rate with alldischarge circuits pipework directly to an external running. Figure 3 shows that the pump may deliver a specific floor Self-sealing waterless valves point in a visible location. output of up to 46 W/m2 to the building during the majority hould be used heat as they prevent the year. However, once the heat rises beyondvalves this 2) demand Self-sealing waterless oul sewer gasesoffrom entering should be used as they prevent fi gure with colder temperatures, then in this instance, the duty he building. Water traps are not gases from entering point of the system falls outside offoul thesewer pump’s available head of uitable in this situation as they the building. Water traps are not ry out. pressure and the consumer will inevitably notice colder rooms. suitable in this situation as they

A new UFH design standard? On my travels around the UK meeting a wide variety of UFH suppliers, it has been refreshing to see some really professional companies designing accurate underfloor heating systems, however I have also seen UFH systems being sold without a proper fit-for-purpose design. As a result of this feedback, the CIPHE is exploring the development of a new design standard, which enables designers to sign up to a strict code of conduct and validated design procedures. This design standard will enable both the installer and the consumer to feel confident in what they are being supplied is correct.

Research As an educational charity with the purpose of protecting the safety and health of the public, the CIPHE will be engaging in some exciting new research projects to support the professional plumbing and heating engineer. The CIPHE will be carrying out a series of discussion groups with its newly-formed ‘installer focus group’ to try and feedback some customer insights into the potential design standard.

dry out.

A tundish adaptor the The ensures solution 3) A tundish adaptor ensures the minimum 300mm below the There are several ways that installers can ensure an UFH system Figure 3 minimum 300mm below the undish before any elbows or is fit for purpose: tundish before any elbows or 76W/m 86 kPa ends in the pipework Additional Installation Considerations 1. Supply accurate information to the designer, for example, bends in the pipework ecommended in Approved Additional Installation Considerations in Approved Additional Installation Considerations building element U-values andrecommended final floor coverings. As the heat demand ocument1) G can be achieved. increases the available Given the high temperatures Document G can be achieved. The soil stack should be vented to pump head decreases The designer can only work withthe thehigh information provided. 1) Given temperatures The soilatmosphere stack should be vented to constructed 1) Given the high temperatures The soil stack should be vented to reached during valve operation, it is the and 2. Ensure that the designerreached has accurate information about theittype during valve operation, is reached during valve operation, it is the atmosphere and constructed thepipe atmosphere and constructed also recommended that the from a suitable plastic (such as of heat source you will be using, heat pump orthe gas boiler. also recommended that the 4)e.g. Theawaterless valve needs to be also recommended that The waterless valve needs toof be from a suitable plastic pipe (such as from a suitable plastic pipe (such as connection pipework to the soil PVC-U to BS EN 1329-1 or PE to connection of pipework to the soil installed vertically, adjacent the PVC-U to BS EN 1329-1 or PE to 3. Specify any specific requirements ofofthe heat source, connection pipework to the soil stalled vertically, adjacent the PVC-U to BS1519-1). EN 1329-1 or In PE toaddition, stack is achieved using an BS PVC-U storage cylinder; and be visible stack EN is achieved using an orage cylinder; and be visible stack is achieved using an e.g. the heat pump may require a minimum rate and a BS EN541519-1). In addition, PVC-U BS EN 1519-1). In addition, PVC-U appropriately sized boss pipeflow fitting, kPa to pipes BS EN and accessible. appropriately sized boss pipe1453-1 fitting, Thepipes underfloor heating to BS EN 1453-1 46W/m nd accessible. appropriately sized boss pipe fitting, system fails to deliver the T (ΔT), which canasignifi cantly impact the design. pipes BS EN 1453-1 fixedlow indelta place with bracket. This fixed intoplace with a bracket. by This BPF manufactured Pipes manufactured by BPF Pipes Group required heat outside Group fixed in place with bracket. This of members the pumps curve manufactured by(having BPF Pipes Group arrangement is preferable to strap, 4. Always ask the designer to ensure that the being arrangement is preferable toapump strap, (having two solid PVC members two solid PVC is preferable strap, clip or patch bosses two typically used in 5)the A suitable plastic pipe (such members (having solid PVC layers or two solid PVC layers clip or patch typically used in as supplied is suffibosses cient toarrangement deliver required head oftopressure layers or two solid PVC layers with a with a polypropylene with in the retro-fit of standard appliances. clip or patch bosses complying typically used A suitable plastic pipe (such as non-foamed PVC intermediate layers or two solid PVC layers with a the retro-fit of standard appliances. for the UFH system alone. non-foamed PVC intermediate layer) layer) BS EN of 1451-1:2000) supported at An acceptablePVC alternative would be olypropylene with the retro-fit standard appliances. may be used for this application. non-foamed intermediate layer)application. Ancomplying acceptable alternative would be may be for this 5. Ensure the primary pipework size from the boiler to the may maximum 300mm intervals, to connect to aused soil pipe manifold. S EN 1451-1:2000) supported at An acceptable alternative would be may be used for this application. to connect to a soil to pipe manifold. be used for downstream sized correctly take into all pipe D2. maximum 300mm manifold intervals,ismay to connect to aaccount soil pipeofmanifold. Where a waterless valve and plastic It is critical that safety devices on components and fittings within the pipe run. A 28mm e used forWhere downstream pipe D2. a waterless valve and plastic pipework (pipe D2) arethat used, thesafetythedevices unvented hot water It is critical on storage pipework would be a better alternative 22mm with Where valve and plastic The BPF to Pipes Group andlarger its connecting pipework should not be on It is critical that safety devices pipework (pipe D2) area6)waterless used, the systemstorage are subject to annual safety the unvented hot water manifolds, however validation is (pipe required. members strongly advise that pipework D2) are used, the connected to a stack itstorage can be the unvented hotunless water to prevent any risk of failure connecting pipework should not be system are subject tochecks annual safety pipes manufactured to BS 7291: demonstrated that the stack is capable The BPF connected Pipes6.Group and its Double check the UFH system type specifi ed is suitable for the connecting pipework should not be and potential property damage. system are subject to annual safety to a stack unless it can be checks prevent any risk of failure 1 tounless 3) are used for of withstandingto temperatures ofBased the upon members strongly advise thatand isthat to(Parts ato stack itpeak can be a UFH system designed with a Delta T of 5 application verificonnected edthe and2006 tested deliver thenot heat checks to prevent any risk of failure demonstrated stack is capable degrees centigrade to illustrate the relationship between the downstream pipe D2. and potential property damage. water discharged. pressure loss, flow rate and the floor specific heat output ipes manufactured to BS 7291: demonstrated that the stack is capable demand of the room. and potential property damage. of withstanding temperatures of the 006 (Partswater 1 to 7. 3) are not used for of withstanding temperatures of the If installing a system that requires an intermediate layer discharged. he downstream pipe D2. water discharged. between the UFH floating floor panel and the floor covering, 2

H (m)

UPS2 15-50/60 130, 50Hz

eta (%)

Eta pump+motor = 28.5%

Q[m3/h]

ensure that this added thermal resistance layer is accounted for in the UFH floor heat output calculation. 8. Join the CIPHE as a registered heating professional and Report supplied by you access the technical support helpline to support Report supplied by pre- and post-installation.

Report supplied by

Proud to be a Professional Proud to be a Professional with knowledge from techtalk with knowledge from techtalk

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Proud to be a Professional with knowledge from techtalk

journal

14/09/2018 12:08

COVER STORY – CPD

Expanding your business through franchising Successful plumbing businesses may think about expanding but not be sure how to do so. There are various methods to consider but many require significant resources so have you considered franchising instead? have operated a pilot operation and have sufficient resources in place so that it is able to provide continued support and assistance.

Gurmeet Jakhu, Director at Emms Gilmore Liberson Solicitors Gurmeet Jakhu, Director at Emms Gilmore Liberson Solicitors, advises how business owners can expand using the franchising model. Franchising allows faster growth because the investment comes from prospective franchisees thus minimising the need for the franchisor to over-stretch their financial resources. In addition, as a business owner, a franchisee is likely to be more driven to make a success of the business, when compared to an employed manager. The franchisor will licence a franchisee to replicate its business model using its trademark or trade name. The franchisor is there throughout to offer a guiding hand to the franchisee. The franchisor will have a tried and tested business and its products or services and brand should be well known. This is the appeal to a prospective franchisee.

How the franchising model works While a franchisor cannot guarantee success, it should demonstrate that it has a tried and tested system, an established brand and a proven income stream before offering it to would-be franchisees. This requires the business owner to have invested time and money in developing the business and investigating its suitability beforehand. Ideally, it will

smarttalk.indd 14

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Cons

Although the relationship involves a binding contract, a franchisor loses an element of operational control over its business and there could be a risk of The business has to be something which brand contamination if the franchisee can be easily replicated by and transferable does not run the business appropriately. to a new franchisee and have longevity. Franchisors make money by collecting There should be a transfer of know-how a percentage of sales as a royalty fee from the franchisor to its franchisees withwith a Peter Adkins and franchisees make money from the Solicitor, Emms Gilmore Liberson Solicitors icitors commitment from the franchisor to provide outlet’s profits so anything that boosts initial and on-going support. The franchisor sales, but not profit could create conflict. smarttalk-ciphe.org.uk will at some point, have to allocate, or recruit new resources so that there is an appropriate Why are there failures infrastructure to support the franchisees. in franchising? You may have seen last year about Some of the reasons why franchises the extension to consumer ‘cooling periods from seven to 14 days. The British off’ Franchise Association (BFA) is a don’t work will be because the What may not have been obvious to representative body of the industry and acts franchisor (a) did not have a tried and those in the trade is how important this piece legislation is to you. it at as the unoffi cialof watchdog of Ignore standards. tested system in place; (b) lacked the your peril – do so and it could cost you Members need to adhere to its Code of financial resources to provide the money (and reputation)! In a nutshell, if youprovides do not comply Ethics (the Code), which (among level of support required; (c) was not with the requirements of the new other things) that the franchisor shall have prepared to continue to develop the act you risk not getting paid for the you do and also prosecution operated awork business concept with success, system; (d) was unable to survive in a by your local Trading Standards. for a reasonable time and in at least one pilot competitive market place; or (e) had a Many think that the cooling off only applies to goods. Itnetwork. also unit, beforeperiod starting its franchise poor franchise agreement in place.

Don’t lose your cool with the consumer!

applies to ‘the provision of services’. This includes plumbing, building and electrical works. Potential franchisees will be advised to

What makes a

Consumers have 14 days from the undertake thorough commercial, financial successful franchise? date they placed an order by They may want you to fit in with The consumer should sign an order and legal due diligence therefore, What have in phone, internet, by mail order oritatis other tradesmen, or successful have the work franchises form confirming the work to be their home, to cancel with you. finished before a deadlineisthey carried out and the price. The form important that the franchisor has established common that the franchisor has have? Or perhaps another job should also contain your terms and If they cancel within this period, a robust business to develop and and perfect cancels and worked you arrangehard with the conditions give the details of they havemodel. a right to a refund of customer to start work earlier than cancellation rights. monies paid. its business model and continues to you expected? If they need the work carrying out As the business supplying the develop the system. Pros What do you do? Ideally you wait urgently, then signing the form will service, you are required to provide customer with details of your Franchisingtheallows the business owner tountil the 14 days period has expired confirm they have been given the but that is often impractical. notice, and, despite that, they want business including address, phone Franchising requires you a diff set expand without over-borrowing, facilitating to erent start work. numbers, their cancellation rights In all of these cases you should and howgrowth. to cancel. It provides for ensure that before youwhen start work, This will it far easier to deal of skills compared tomake ownerfaster, controlled the consumer has been given all the with attempted cancellation and If you do not, then the cooling off managed Franchisees will recover the full increased market penetration while relevant information aboutoutlets. your you should normally period is extended to 14 days fromusing notice ofthat their the rightsfranchisor amounthas agreed for emergency the information is supplied. the fewer staff the anddaythere is no diluting of business, andexpect to cancel and signed authority to works, or otherwise a sum Well worded terms of business and necessary resources to provide the the brand because of the level of control carry out the work within the dependent upon how much of the order forms are an absolute must here. works and were carried requisite level of support is out before provided byWhat a well-drafted and detailed 14 days period. about emergency repair cancellation. How? Start by reviewing your order work? You are contacted by a continually working to improve the franchise agreement. forms urgently. homeowner by telephone to carry systems so that it remains relevant out urgent work to stop flooding, Peter Adkins is a Solicitor with Emms Gilmore Liberson Solicitors based in sort out faulty heating or clear a Peter has been involved for many years and throughout the termwith of the theCIPHE franchise. The franchisor will expand into a territory Birmingham. drain. The work is carried out regularly advises CIPHE members of all types of legal issues. He can be within the 14 day period. The repair Acontacted thorough and well-drafted franchise which is already known to a local franchisee. at padkins@egl-law.com 0121 314 0000 work having been completed, the agreement is also crucial to the success In return, the franchisor will consumer may then tryreceive to cancel an initial the contract. Whatroyalty do you do? and longevity of the franchise. payment and on-going payments Maybe the work isn’t urgent but the based on the franchisee’s turnover. The more consumer wants it started within Proud to be a Professional the 14 days? successful the franchisee, the more both TM parties prosper. with knowledge from smarttalk

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p15_phesept18.indd 1

05/09/2018 12:09:15

FEATURE

A HEALTHY FUTURE WITH COPPER

An article published in the January/February 2018 issue of the p&he Journal may have appeared to cast doubt on the ability of some long-established copper pipework systems (pre-1980s) to deliver safe drinking water and also on the environmental credentials of copper.

Nick Hay, Project Manager for Copper Initiative

n this article, Nick Hay, Project Manager for Copper Initiative, puts the case for copper pipework. Professional plumbers will know that copper provides a quality pipework installation that delivers fresh drinking water to the customer’s tap. Copper tube, copper fittings (end-feed or integral solder ring) and lead-free solder for the capillary joints, all make for a healthy installation. The use of leaded solder for any new work done on drinking water pipework is illegal and has been since the 1980s. In the UK, there are still some longestablished drinking water installations (pre-1980s) which may incorporate lead pipes and perhaps copper pipework jointed with leaded solder. This in itself does not mean that the drinking water will have levels of lead that exceed the regulatory limit. We know that under regular flow conditions, most waters would be expected to lay down a uniform, adherent, protective scale (patina), fixed chemically, to the inside surfaces of pipework. Long-established pipework has had plenty of time for this to take place. The scale, produced in hard water areas,

Copper tube, copper ﬁttings and lead-free solder for capillary joints make for a healthy installation which forms on the inside of pipework reduces the likelihood of lead dissolving into the water. In addition, water companies treat the water that is delivered to the customer’s tap with small amounts of phosphates, which further minimise the levels of lead in the tap water. This is to ensure that levels of lead in the drinking water at point of use are kept below the limits set by the Regulators. In recent months, some industry bodies issued a call for the plumbing and heating industry to completely boycott leaded solder. One spokesperson said: “If we as an industry stop using lead solder, or ideally if it can’t be purchased, then this would go a long way in protecting public health from DIY enthusiasts or unqualified plumbers who don’t know the regulations or understand the health risks

associated with lead solder.” If you find yourself working on a drinking water installation in an older property, it is worth checking to see if there are lead pipes in the system. WaterSafe have a very useful video; ‘How to check for lead water pipes’ on their website https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=pNDJz4mw4ys It is also worth reading the Drinking Water Inspectorate leaflet on ‘Lead in drinking water’ http://dwi.defra.gov.uk/consumers/ advice-leaflets/lead.pdf Water companies produce their own advice for their customers on lead in drinking water, explaining how it happens, their policy for addressing the issue, their responsibilities and the options for customers in replacing lead pipes in their homes.

ENVIRONMENT In 2000, the copper industry initiated a voluntary risk assessment for copper. The assessment process was agreed with the Italian Government’s Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Italy, acting as the review country on behalf of the European Commission and the EU Member States. The copper risk assessment has been completed and extensively reviewed by the European Commission and EU Member States. Copper for recycling

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FEATURE Copper is 100 percent recyclable, with no loss in properties

The 1,800-page dossier comprehensively assesses the health and environmental impact of copper during its production, use, recycling and disposal. Information from the producers of anodes, cathodes, copper powders and copper chemicals, as well as from many semi-fabricators, cable companies and other downstream users, was collected from over 100 sites across the EU. This comprehensive assessment, covering the production, use and end-of-life aspects of the copper value chain, shows that the existing legislative framework safeguards Europe’s environment, the health of industry workers and the general public. With this risk assessment, the copper industry is meeting its duty of care to all stakeholders by demonstrating the safe use of its products for the environment and for human health.

In Europe around 50 percent of the copper demand is satisfied by recycled material

and is an increasingly important concern in modern buildings. The copper industry has worked hard to produce information on the environmental performance of its products and the results are very positive. The recycling of copper is well established and plumbers have always sold off-cuts and decommissioned pipework and cylinders that have reached the end of their lives into the recycling chain. • Copper is 100 percent recyclable, with no loss in properties. Recycled copper can be used for exactly the same applications as newly mined copper. • Recycling helps to meet the growing demand for copper, helping to preserve natural resources. • In Europe, around 50 percent of the copper demand is satisfied by recycled material.

LIFECYCLE ASSESSMENT The embodied energy of a material (in J/kg) is a measure of the total energy consumed during every phase of the lifecycle of a product, from cradle to grave, so for copper, this includes energy used during mining and extraction, recycling and manufacture. The long life and recyclability of copper products have a positive impact on their embodied energy. The copper industry has developed up-to-date lifecycle data for its tube, sheet and wire products. The information has been prepared in co-operation with recognised lifecycle practitioners, using international methodologies (ISO standards) and proprietary production data collected from across the copper industry. www.copper-life-cycle.org

CONSERVING OUR RESOURCES Sustainability of materials is something that impacts all parts of the construction sector

The Copper Voluntary Risk Assessment

• Copper tube manufacturers use, on average, more than 50 percent recycled materials in their tubes. • Recycling uses up to 85 percent less energy than would be used to mine and produce the same copper, while helping to conserve fossil fuels and reduce CO2 emissions. Copper has been recycled for at least 10,000 years and today, is the most recycled plumbing material. As professional plumbers, you play your part in ensuring that no copper scrap goes to landfill.

HEALTH Copper is well known for being essential for human health. • For centuries, copper pipes and vessels have been used to convey clean drinking water. • We all need a daily intake of copper in our diets to maintain good health. (Chocolate and nuts are two good sources of copper). • Copper is a micro-nutrient, vital for all forms of plant and animal life, ensuring soil fertility and productivity. Copper is important for delivering fresh, clean, wholesome drinking water, for generating and supplying electricity and for our health. Recyclability increases copper’s value to society in that it helps to conserve natural resources. Use of recycled copper also reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Recycled copper is totally comparable to new copper, therefore no copper need ever go to waste. With so many positive attributes, copper will play a key role in the development of sustainable buildings and one of its main applications will continue to be in plumbing and heating systems.

For more information on copper and its uses visit: www.copperplumbing.org.uk

September/October 2018

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FEATURE

MODULAR GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS: THE CASCADED EFFECT Ground source heat pumps aren’t a one size fits all technology – they can be used in a wide variety of different scenarios.

f a commercial premises has a high demand for heating and hot water, then an effective solution is to link a number of ground source heat pumps in a modular cascaded system to meet the heat load of the property. Paul Dennison, Sales Manager at UK heat pump manufacturer, Kensa, explains: “Any high heating load can be matched with a cascaded system as the central ground array, whether it be coiled slinky pipe, boreholes or pond mats. “This solution is becoming popular in commercial applications such as in golf clubs, care homes and garden centres, where multiple heat pumps housed in a central plantroom can satisfy demand for large volumes of heat and hot water.”

FLEXIBILITY AND EFFICIENCY Cascaded ground source heat pump systems are designed to adjust between minimum and maximum heat demand as needed. This

means that the system is highly efficient as it always produces the required amount of heat and hot water. For example, in winter, a project might need 100kW of heat to satisfy demand, however, during the spring and summer the need for heat may be more like 40kW. In order to avoid inefficiencies, a cascaded ground source heat pump system comprising two 50kW units might be installed. When a load greater than 50kW is needed, then both heat pumps will operate to fulfil demand, while only one need operate in the summer. Cascaded systems can also be designed to satisfy both space heating and domestic hot water demands at the same time. These types of systems feature multiple ground source heat pumps with one or more dedicated to the production of domestic hot water only and the remaining units dedicated to the space heating load. Specialist high temperature ground source heat pumps can Hornsea slinky trench

Cascaded slinky system

Hot water cylinder

Hot water to house

Diverter valve

Heating flow to underfloor and radiators

Buffer vessel

Slinky array

Manifold

Heating return from underfloor and radiators Slinky array

Hornsea subterranean manifold

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FEATURE maintaining the on-site indoor planting facility and specialist aquatic centre. With kitchen and customer toilet facilities located in the restaurant area, it was also crucial that the building had ample supplies of hot water. Kensa specified two 45kW plantroom ground source heat pump units to cover the heating and one 25kW high temperature twin compact ground source heat pump to provide hot water.

Hornsea Garden Centre be used to produce the domestic hot water, removing the reliance on immersion heaters. It is possible to have these types of cascade systems comprising three, four or even more heat pumps, where the domestic hot water and space heating loads are split again.

design are eligible for the Government’s Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), which provides a guaranteed quarterly income for 20 years based on the actual heat output of the system.

SEAMLESS OPERATION

CASE STUDY: HORNSEA GARDEN CENTRE

Having more than one heat pump in the system offers a degree of redundancy; in the event that one breaks down, the system will continue to operate. Although the full heat load cannot be met, a degree of heat can be maintained until the faulty unit can be replaced. It also means that engineers can work on each individual heat pump separately, while the rest of the system remains operational. Projects using a cascaded system

Hornsea Garden Centre near Hull has three Kensa Plantroom ground source heat pumps installed in a cascaded system to provide heating and hot water to a large, extension comprising 30,000 sq ft of retail space and a café kitchen. The owners wanted to fit underfloor heating to maximise available floor space. Maintaining a constant, controllable temperature was not only important for customer comfort, but imperative for

Hornsea modular cascaded system

Key facts: • new-build 30,000 sq ft extension; • main building upgraded to underfloor heating; • cascaded plantroom system; • two 45kW plantroom ground source heat pumps providing space heating; • one 25kW high temperature twin compact ground source heat pump providing hot water; • 24 x 50m slinkies located under a nearby field; and • the system contains 7,250 litres of water and 1,450 litres of antifreeze. Owner, Charles Stubbs, said: “The building warms up to 22-23 degrees very quickly and is easily maintained. As well as being energy-efficient, the technology makes perfect business sense compared to radiators or air source heat pumps.”

To see which application of ground source technology would be the best fit for your project visit www. kensaheatpumps.com/solution-centre/ business/commercial-building/

Hornsea modular ground source heat pumps

September/October 2018

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RESEARCH

COMPARING CONTINUOUS FLOW HOT WATER HEATING UNITS WITH STORED HOT WATER SYSTEMS Building engineering services consultancy, AECOM, has concluded a report showing that continuous flow water heating systems have an advantage in terms of initial capital costs and lifecycle costs over 20 years, when compared with stored hot water systems.

hris Goggin, Associate Director Operations of Rinnai UK, reports that the study* shows that continuous Chris Goggin, flow water heating Associate Director systems can be up Operations of to seven percent Rinnai UK more economical than equivalent ‘traditional’ stored hot water systems. AECOM was commissioned to carry out a lifecycle study on continuous flow water heating systems and to provide a comparison with conventional storage systems. Two case studies were provided that are based on projects using continuous flow water heating systems. AECOM then determined an equivalent storage-based system for each case study and compared operational and capital costs. For the lifecycle comparison, the analysis period was 20 years, based on the expected service life. The net present value (NPV) calculation is based on a discount rate of 3.5 percent (The Green Book − HM Treasury), an inflation rate of two percent for servicing costs and projected retail fuel costs from DECC1.

costs over 20 years, with the continuous flow system consistently lower in energy use than the two storage systems.

CASE STUDY 1 This was a system for a typical, small, pre-fabricated fast food restaurant. It is assumed the system only serves the hot water demand. The lifecycle analysis includes the initial capital costs, projected annual fuel costs, and estimated annual servicing costs which are assumed to increase by two percent each year. The annual fuel cost assumes the same daily fuel consumption over the whole year.

The servicing cost is based on £130/year per boiler and £160/year for a boiler and cylinder. The resulting net present values of the three showed that the continuous flow system is six to seven percent lower than the two storage systems based on that 20-year analysis period.

CASE STUDY 2 This was a system for a shower block in a holiday camp, with six showers and four basin taps. For the continuous flow option, the analysis is based on a configuration of four continuous flow water heaters that each

Case study 2

In both case studies, the continuous flow system showed a clear advantage in terms of initial capital costs, as well as lifecycle

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RESEARCH

have a nominal output of 48kW, which, for this application, because there is a very short run of pipe work between the water heaters and the fixtures, it is possible for the water heaters to generate water at 40°C. The risk of Legionella is overcome by regular flushing of the system. For the energy required to deal with the instantaneous hot water demand, the analysis assumes that the bulk of the hot water demand would be due to the showers. Each shower would typically have a flow rate of around nine litres per minute, which if mixed to 40ºC would equate to an instantaneous load of around 19kW each, so even if there was only one shower running, the load on a single continuous flow water heater would equate to an efficiency of 95 percent based on the performance curve. As the hot water demand increases, the modular nature of this particular configuration would allow the 95 percent efficiency to be maintained for the bulk of the demand. The difference in daily fuel costs between the three systems is around seven percent. The usage profile for this case study is particularly suited to continuous flow systems (i.e. high but infrequent demand over the day), which is why there is an advantage in fuel consumption over the storage systems.

HOT WATER HEATING SYSTEMS EMPLOYED IN THE STUDY Indirect fired storage systems This consists of separate heat source and storage cylinders, where for this study, the heat source will be gas fired boilers running on 80ºC flow and 60ºC return with gross efficiency of 89 percent. As the hot water is stored at 60ºC in insulated cylinders, there will be standing heat losses. The standby electricity is assumed to be 15W per boiler and 60W when operating to cover fan and controls. Direct fired storage systems This is where the hot water storage cylinder has an integral gas burner to directly heat the water. The key difference with indirect fired storage systems is that they are

designed to operate in condensing mode and generally achieve gross efficiency up to 96 percent. A disadvantage of direct fired storage systems is that the standing losses are around three times higher than indirect storage cylinders.

CONTINUOUS FLOW SYSTEMS This is essentially a gas boiler that is designed to instantaneously heat mains water for supply directly to water fixtures without any storage. The key advantages with this type of hot water heating, is firstly saving in space needed for hot water cylinders and the associated standing heat losses. The challenge is that instantaneous hot water demand can vary hugely for most systems and therefore the continuous flow heating system needs to have a wide modulation range as well as maintaining efficiency over that range. Footnotes *The AECOM ‘Life cycle study of continuous flow water heating systems’ 1 https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/ energy-and-emissions-projections Rinnai UK is a CIPHE Industrial Associate. For more information visit www.rinnaiuk.com

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11/12/2017 12:22 29/08/2018 10:10:16

RESEARCH

WORKING TOWARDS GREATER WATER SUPPLY SAFETY Double check valves are designed to protect water supplies from contamination and are used to safeguard the water supply to millions of domestic and non-domestic properties.

K water regulations classify the range of domestic and nondomestic uses of water into five Fluid Categories. These Categories are graded from 1 to 5; from the cleanest potable water rated Fluid Category 1, to water classed as posing a significant risk to health graded as Fluid Category 5. (See the CPD on page 20 of the July/ August 2018 issue for more information on these classifications). Engineers working in the water industry find a variety of contraventions especially in Fluid Category 3 areas, often where unsuitable valves and fittings are found in domestic settings – for example outside taps. Also, many WC inlet valves present back flow problems and therefore compromise the safety of the water supply. Daniel Littlewood ACIPHE, Senior Water Regulations Technician at Severn Trent Water, said: “At Severn Trent, as is the case across many other water companies, our team of water fittings technicians visit both domestic and non-domestic properties to ensure plumbing systems are in accordance with the Water Supply Regulations. Fluid Categories not only define the potential level of contamination risk, but also define the recommended rectification method to the affected plumbing system, in order to allay the risk. In relation to Fluid Category 3, where water presents a slight risk to health, our

Double check valves are designed to protect water supplies from contamination

inspectors often specify the installation of a WRAS-approved double check valve immediately upstream of the at-risk process or fitting.” David Keys, Managing Director at Albion Valves Ltd, commented: “At Albion we work closely with water companies like Severn Trent to identify the common problem areas in water contamination. “We are committed to helping the water industry ensure that the supply remains clean and uncontaminated due to waste by backflow from third party plumbing systems.

Therefore, we believe it is crucial that WRAS approved products are fitted in these Fluid Category 3 situations. The WRAS approval goes a long way to ensuring the functionality of the valves, and guaranteeing peace of mind that continued protection is given in these applications.”

For further information visit: www.albionvalvesuk.com

Severn Trent Water’s Carsington Reservoir

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FEATURE

THE SMART APPROACH TO FIRE PREVENTION Mark Bradley, Northern Regional Manager for Business Services & Industry at Xylem UK

Every building should have some form of fire prevention in place, but sprinkler systems are by far the most effective in almost 100 percent of cases.¹ Despite these credentials, their implementation across England remains limited. Mark Bradley, Northern Regional Manager for Business Services & Industry at Xylem UK, explains why this needs to change.

hether accidental or intentional, fires damage more than just the structure of a building. They can wipe out millions of pounds worth of stock, destroy homes and the treasured possessions within them, damage hard-earned reputations, pollute the surrounding environment and, in the most serious of cases, cost lives. Since 2016, more than 80 people have died as the result of a fire-related incident in the West Midlands alone.² The costs to local businesses can be devastating. From April 2017 to May 2018, over 250 fire-related incidents in commercial or industrial buildings were recorded by the West Midlands Fire Service. Reasons for these fires were varied, but around 110 were due to ‘system faults’, particularly those relating to wiring or electrical supply. Perhaps more alarmingly, more than 200 of these incidents were discovered by a person, rather than an automatic fire detector. The data also shows that 97 of the buildings involved had no fire alarm system installed, while 13 had an alarm system that was not functional.³

STOPPING THE SPREAD Fire can spread very quickly, particularly when it has the perfect combination of fuel, oxygen and heat. Having said that, it is actually the smoke caused by a fire that can kill and this can pose a threat even before the fire has started to spread. It is therefore imperative that counter-measures are taken before the fire can harm people or property. With the right measures in place, a fire can be contained quickly, thus stopping it from reaching the temperature and gas emission levels at which it becomes lethal to humans. The ‘right measure’ in this case, is a sprinkler system.

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According to the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), sprinklers are the most effective way to ensure that fires are suppressed or even extinguished before the fire service can arrive. Using a specialised suction and discharge pumping system, sprinklers deliver a concentrated burst of water to prevent flames spreading. A report conducted by the NFCC and the National Fire Sprinkler Network found that, over a 12-month period, sprinkler systems responded effectively in 94 percent of incidents and that, when activated, successfully extinguished or contained the fire in 99 percent of cases. The research also revealed that sprinkler systems were 100 percent effective in controlling fires in both converted and purpose-built flats. With such an impressive track record, surely every flat, school and warehouse will be lining up to commission and install a sprinkler system?

MYTH-BUSTING Figures released by BBC Breakfast under the Freedom of Information Act have stated that only two percent of UK social housing blocks have a full sprinkler system, while a separate report by the National Fire Chiefs Council revealed that only five percent of schools in England had sprinklers fitted. According to Julian Parsons, an Executive Member of the National Fire Sprinkler Network, uptake is slowly increasing as a result of recent national tragedies. He said: “Tragedies like the Grenfell disaster have raised public awareness of sprinkler systems, leading to several demonstrations and protests from tenants demanding their installation. Landlords are starting to see the benefits of installing sprinklers; this is particularly true of local authorities who are responsible for high-rise residential blocks.

“Nevertheless, general adoption still remains lower than we would like.” The reason for these small percentages boils down to a lack of legislation on the use of sprinklers in England. In its current form, the law only requires residential properties of more than 30m in height and warehouses of more than 20,000m2 to be fitted with sprinkler systems, although loopholes do exist. In Scotland, sprinklers are a legal requirement for residential buildings, including care homes, sheltered housing, school accommodation and high rises of more than 18m – something the National Fire Sprinkler Network is eager to imitate. “At the NFSN, we are continually lobbying the Government to legislate in England in the same way as Scotland and Wales,” Julian says. “Progress has been made, but more needs to be done to make everyone aware that sprinklers are the right way to protect people, property and the environment.” There is very little data to help us understand why general sprinkler uptake remains low, but a few lingering myths and persistent misconceptions about sprinklers and how they work, may not be helping. For facilities managers, particularly those managing existing buildings and older structures, the cost and ease of installing a sprinkler system will be the most pressing concern. In fact, most modern automatic sprinkler systems are designed to be commissioned and installed quickly and easily – this includes retrofits to existing buildings. Pipe connections for the suction and discharge of water can be fitted to existing water mains, although written consent will need to be obtained. An electrical supply can be provided by the mains, or by an independent power source, such as a diesel engine. The installation of such a system could even improve the value of a property.

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FEATURE Most modern automatic sprinkler systems are designed to be commissioned and installed quickly and easily – this includes retroﬁts to existing buildings

“Developers could start to see sprinklers as a demonstration of their properties’ modernity and safety,” Julian said. Another barrier to widespread sprinkler implementation may be the misconception that sprinklers are easily activated and that they actually cause more damage when they discharge. As Julian explained: “There is a perception that sprinkler systems are unpredictable and unreliable when, in fact, the opposite is true.” In reality, sprinkler systems are activated only when the smoke from a fire reaches a certain level and they only discharge from the sprinkler heads actually in the vicinity of the fire. They also cause considerably less water damage than a firefighter’s hose, which discharges water at a much higher rate.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS The water industry as a whole is enjoying a number of impressive innovations and developments and the sprinkler market is no different. Xylem’s Lowara Hydroquench 3000 MK2, for example, undertakes an automatic self-test cycle in order to gauge pump condition, as well as frequent pressure and flow monitoring to prevent premature manual shutdown. This makes it a reliable and low maintenance sprinkler system. Once installed, the system can provide a number of benefits to a building, such as potential insurance savings and more flexibility in building design and planning.

¹ Efficiency and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the United Kingdom: An analysis from fire service data, NFSN, NFCC, May 2017 ² Data source: https://data.birmingham.gov. uk/dataset/wmfs-incident-data-since-2009, courtesy of the West Midlands Fire Service ³ As above

Xylem UK is a CIPHE Industrial Associate. For more information visit www.xylem.com/en-uk

For more information on the National Fire Sprinkler Network visit www.nfsn.co.uk

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TECHNICAL

HOW TO AVOID COMMON UNDER FLOOR HEATING ISSUES Underfloor Heating (UFH) is taking the plumbing and heating market by storm. As with all storms though, it’s important to be aware of potential hazards and be vigilant, explains Toby Howard-Willis, Technical Engineer at JG Speedfit.

Toby Howard-Willis, Technical Engineer at JG Speedﬁt

or plumbing and heating engineers the new opportunity is underfloor heating (UFH) − a lot of this opportunity is down to installations in new housing developments. However, installers should tread carefully. There are three key phases to a UFH project: planning, installing and commissioning. Not taking the care and time needed in any one of these three areas can result in ineffective system performance, project delays, inefficient heating, lost time and money.

BEST LAID PLANS UFH is a precise heating solution and any mistakes made at the beginning of a project will have profound and damaging effects later. This is why planning is of utmost importance, and installers must understand the exact project requirements before starting. Different types of floor construction will determine the type of UFH system required. To ensure the best method of installation is

chosen, architects, project managers and installers must communicate effectively at the specification stage to create a project plan. If undertaking a full-scale fit out of UFH in a retrofit house or extension, be conscious that floor constructions can vary from room to room. Make sure to plan for different floor constructions within the same building, as they will transmit heat differently. Wooden joisted systems require spreader plates or an underfit system, while screed floors need staple or cliprail systems, for example.

INSTALLATION Firstly, always put the UFH pipes in conduit where they rise from the screed floor up to the manifold, as well as where pipes travel through an expansion strip. It is easily overlooked, especially when installers are working to tight deadlines, but sacrificing the conduit has massive post-installation implications. The conduit also helps to insulate the pipe and prevent an excessive build-up of heat in one area, which can often cause cracks in the floor screed. They also protect the pipe by acting as a sleeve. Secondly, once the system is installed, UFH must be pressure tested. When testing, valves on the manifold and the decorator caps on the manifold’s isolation points on each circuit need to be opened. It is advisable to carry out a pressure test at 6 bar before flooring or screed is laid. This will allow you to check for leaks and ensure the pipes reach maximum expansion. Make sure you maintain this pressure until the screed has been fully applied, as this prevents the screed from cracking later. Thirdly, always carry out a pressure test with water instead of air. Air will not allow the pipes to hydraulically expand, simply because it can be compressed, while water cannot be. It is important to make sure there aren’t any traces of air in the system, as air loops in the pipe wouldn’t let the system run properly.

JG Speedﬁt Underﬂoor Panel System However, never assume that a UFH system will work perfectly − each component of the system has to be set accordingly. The first of the final few steps are to set the flow rate for each circuit, as well as the overall blended temperature. If this is not done, the system will operate inefficiently, or even not at all. It’s also important to talk with the electrician at this point. Every UFH system will have its own unique wiring system. Likewise, the first fix wiring will be different for all thermostats as they have different functionality. Thermostats may require re-wiring if not installed correctly at this point. Finally, programme the thermostats for homeowners, including setting the correct date and time. It is good practice to label every circuit on the manifold and leave all design drawings and instructions in a folder for the homeowner. This will come handy should there be any issues in the future.

JG Speedfit is a CIPHE Industrial Associate. For more information visit www.johnguest.com

NEVER ASSUME It might be easy to think that once the pressure test is done, that’s the end of the job.

Label every circuit on the manifold

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TRAINING MATTERS

TRAINING MATTERS ALL THAT MATTERS IN THE TRAINING WORLD

BACK TO SCHOOL FOR THE DfE? Jenni Preston, Editor of CIPHE’s Education and Training Matters (ETM)

or those tutors and trainers returning to work, they do so in a changing and challenging landscape. Many will have had the summer off to recuperate after another exhausting year, but this has not stopped debate surrounding training, education and qualifications from raging. The House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee report; ‘Treating Students Fairly: the economics of post-school education’ was published on 11th June 2018. It was a catalyst for debate over the summer, as the Government issued a number of defensive statements via the Department for Education (DfE) regarding criticisms in the report. We catch up with some of the big topics here:

1. APPRENTICESHIP TARGET SHOULD BE SCRAPPED The report savaged the current three million apprenticeships by 2020 target, stating: ‘The Government’s target of three million apprenticeships has prioritised quantity over quality, and should be scrapped. The lack of clear accountability for the delivery and quality of apprenticeships is unacceptable.’ The quality of apprenticeships has been a long-term issue, with many think tanks publishing white papers touching on the subject. A House of Lords report may hold some sway when it comes to Government policy, though a U-turn on the three million figure would be an embarrassment.

The 2018/19 academic year has swooped in and across the land, colleges are full to the brim with new students, ready to take their first steps into a new career.

2. THE APPRENTICESHIP LEVY IS NOT BEING USED APPROPRIATELY OR WITH QUALITY TRAINING PROVIDERS The report also criticised several aspects of the Apprenticeship Levy, pointing out that, ‘Despite the introduction of the Apprenticeship Levy, the UK is still a long way away from the effective apprenticeship system needed. The levy has encouraged the rebadging of training activity, most notably MBAs that should not be funded or described as an apprenticeship. It is also concerning that over half of training providers for apprenticeships were recently rated inadequate or requiring improvement in a recent Ofsted inspection.’ To add to the issues above, it has since been announced that the rollout of the online apprenticeship service to all employers has been pushed back a year. Originally, all employers would have been able to use the online apprenticeship service from April 2019. The Government has now said it will provide further details this autumn.

3. RENEW THE APPRENTICESHIP VISION The House of Lords report went further, saying: ‘The Government must renew its vision for apprenticeships, concentrating on the skills and choices that employers and individuals really need. An apprenticeship should be a method by which a young

person, or new entrant to an industry, develops skills whilst working.’

4. THE INSTITUTE FOR APPRENTICESHIPS (IFA) SHOULD BE ABOLISHED Despite being introduced 3rd April 2017, the report has called for The Institute for Apprenticeships to be abolished and goes on to say: ‘The quality and outcomes of Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships should be the responsibility of the new further education regulator; the quality and outcomes of Level 4 and above apprenticeships should be the responsibility of the Office for Students.’ In August the Government said it would not abolish the IfA: ‘We do not need to abolish the Institute for Apprenticeships. The institute has made good progress during its first year of operation.’ So it seems that for the time being at least, the IfA is safe and will continue to develop apprenticeship standards and assessment plans. Reform was never going to be easy and once again, the Government is receiving a barrage of criticism over its apprenticeship and funding plans. It’s pretty clear that when it comes to apprenticeships, the current upheaval is not just affecting this year’s intake of students, it is deeply affecting the returning tutors who are doing their best to deliver an education. You can download the full report at https://tinyurl.com/yboh6sk9

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EXTERNAL AFFAIRS GROUP

UPDATES FROM THE EXTERNAL AFFAIRS GROUP TRAINING IS NOT A COST IT’S AN INVESTMENT Yvonne Orgill, voluntary member of the External Affairs Group at the CIPHE and Director at European Water Label, shares how you can benefit from training via the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) Bathroom Academy.

s the voice of the bathroom industry, the BMA actively supports education within the sector and offers learning opportunities and skills development for individuals and organisations via the web-based Bathroom Academy. For members of the CIPHE who are proud to be a professional, you already know the importance of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and training. The Bathroom Academy is designed with professionals like you in mind and offers a means of gaining accredited training.

OPEN TO ALL The Academy is open to all and there is something for everyone, whatever time or training budget you have available. There is a series of essential guides, which are mostly free to download. These cover all the basics; products such as baths, water systems, showers, shower controls, everything that an installer or retailer will encounter. They provide an invaluable overview that covers the right choice of product for end user needs, generic industry design, industry installation, frequently asked questions and industry terminology. They should be considered essential reading for all new entrants and are also relevant to more experienced professionals.

The guides form the basis of the ‘Certificate in Bathroom Studies’; this is awarded on completion of a workbook, an online test and a written submission.

WHY IT IS IMPORTANT We believe that we have an important role in promoting the message that training is not an added cost that has to be funded, but is an opportunity to invest in a person or a company. It is vital that everyone has access to and takes on board the most up-to-date information on water efficiency, enabling them to understand how to provide consumers with products that offer efficiency features, but no loss in performance. We must all work together to raise awareness and promote the tangible benefits for those that engage in training. Training can improve processes and customer service, add value to an organisation and, above all, raise industry standards. The more we as an industry can do to improve customer experience, the better it will be for businesses and the wider market. For more information about the Bathroom Academy and other training opportunities, including business courses held at the BMA headquarters in Newcastle-under- Lyme, please call 01782 631619 or email info@bathroom-academy.co.uk

LOVE YOUR LOCAL LAV Did you know that 673 public toilets have stopped being maintained by major councils across the UK since 2010? Or that a lack of loos affects some of the most vulnerable people in society? Any plumber worth their salt will know how vital toilets are to the health of the nation and so the CIPHE and the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) are calling on Government and councils across the nation to recognise the importance of public

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toilets. Join with us to spread the word on our ‘Love your local lav’ campaign on the run up to World Toilet Day on 19th November. For more information visit www.ciphe.org.uk/loveyourlav #LoveYourLocalLav #SaveTheLoo

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14/09/2018 09:58

EXTERNAL AFFAIRS GROUP

TIME TO TALK ‘CONSUMER’

CREATING OPPORTUNITY

Paul Massey, Chairman of the Institute’s Industrial Associates (IA) Development Group, discusses the importance of working with consumer bodies to reach the public and protect the vulnerable.

Richard Soper, Director of Development at the CIPHE, shares how the Institute is creating more opportunities for those involved with the CIPHE.

he CIPHE’s focus remains firmly on raising standards and the promotion of best practice, with a view to protecting consumers at all times. Our relationships with IAs and like-minded partnering industry bodies, such as the BMA, HHIC and BMF, help to unite us as an industry and makes our voice stronger, but the next step in this crusade against poor and dangerous workmanship is to bolster our relationships with the consumer. This forms part of our plan to have a cohesive 360 degree relationship between plumbing and heating manufacturers, consumer bodies, insurers and the installer.

TALKING TO THE CONSUMER There are many organisations, charities and associations set up to protect consumer interests. The CIPHE, with its core values of protection of the vulnerable and championing the service offered by only qualified and professional plumbing and heating engineers, aligns well with the cornerstones of many of the consumer bodies. In the coming months and years, our plan is to work more closely with the likes of Trading Standards, Age UK, Energy Saving Trust and the Citizen Advice Bureau – to name a few. At the CIPHE, we can offer sound advice and be one of the first ports of call for many of these organisations who, no doubt, receive many plumbing and heating-related queries. As the outside temperature plummets in the autumn and winter, these calls will only increase so we need to be there to help the many consumers who are at risk of, or who have experienced, poor workmanship in the UK.

OUR VISION The CIPHE’s vision of improving the safety and health of consumers through the provision of correctly installed, commissioned, maintained and decommissioned plumbing and heating systems, can only happen if consumer and trade bodies work together. We therefore need to work together to create real change within the heating and plumbing industry. At the CIPHE, we’d like to know your thoughts, so please get in touch by visiting our social channels: Facebook.com/CIPHE.UK Twitter.com/CIPHE Linkedin.com/company/chartered-institute-of-plumbing-andheating-engineering

t’s an exciting time to be part of the CIPHE and I want to tell you why. Across the board, membership is on the rise, which means that more of us are standing up for professionalism. As a reader of the p&he Journal, you too are likely to be one of those valued members and I want to thank you for your continued support. In this article, I want to urge members, both new and existing, to take advantage of all the Institute has to offer. Read on to find out more.

INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATES The Institute works with a number of Industrial Associate (IA) members. These members include many of the leading manufacturers, merchants, consultants and educational bodies in the plumbing and heating industry. Baxi, Geberit, Ideal Standard and Worcester Bosch are just a few of the IAs supporting the Institute’s aims. Our work with IAs passes on a number of benefits to all members. This year for instance, the CIPHE has worked with IAs to increase the number of Approved Training Centres (ATCs), to develop several Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Continuing Professional Development (CPD) resources, in addition to using the influence and expertise of our IA membership to create the potential for policy change and better working practices. Members can access all of the above-mentioned educational resources and are also welcome to feedback on ways you would like to see our IAs working to benefit you and the plumbing and heating industry.

PROUD TO BE A PROFESSIONAL Now in its third year, the CIPHE’s ‘Proud to be a Professional’ campaign is still going strong. This year we have given the campaign an extra push by creating a number of visual aids, including badges and high-quality vinyl stickers, for members to display with pride. We firmly believe that the more vocal members are about being part of the professional body for the UK plumbing and heating industry, the bigger the difference we can make. Together, we really are a force for change and can stamp out unscrupulous individuals who tarnish the reputation of the industry and put the public in danger. You can find out more about what your CIPHE membership entitles you to by visiting the ciphe.org.uk website, or for any queries please email our Membership Director, Tim Sainty, tims@ciphe.org.uk

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WHAT’S NEW

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

MAKITA’S NEW OMNIBOHRER MULTI-PURPOSE DRILL BITS The new OmniBohrer range of drill bits joins Makita’s extensive range of high performance accessories. Bits in this multi-purpose collection are suitable for use with materials including concrete, tile, brick, slate, limestone, wood, composite materials, aluminium and plastics, eliminating the need to switch between bit types. The collection of 25 drill bits, ranging from 3 – 14mm diameter and lengths of 60 – 400mm, feature a tungsten carbide tip that can be used for different applications across various industries. Tungsten carbide is more durable than many other materials because of its exceptional levels of toughness and hardness. The wide flutes of the OmniBohrer bits deliver quick and efficient material extraction.

www.makitauk.com Twitter: @MakitaUK Facebook.com/makitauk and google.com/+makitauk

COMBICLEAN − MONARCH WATER’S ‘POINT OF USE’ SCALE PREVENTION AND CORROSION SYSTEM Part L compliant, Combiclean, provides protection for hot water systems, boilers and appliances against scale formation and corrosion. The new system’s compact design, ease of installation and use make it an efficient solution to help households become more energy efficient and extend the life of their appliances. Suitable for both 15mm and 22mm pipework, its 360° rotating connector allows installers to fit it at varying angles, being particularly suited for hard-to-reach locations. The system’s revolutionary acoustic alarm signals when the cartridge needs replacing.

FERNOX SPONSORS WIT CONFERENCE After the success of last year’s Women Installers Together (WIT) Conference, Fernox, manufacturer of chemical water treatment products, was delighted to support the 2018 event. This year’s conference welcomed 126 attendees to discuss the theme of independence – with guest speakers Anna Hemmings MBE, Olympian Marathon kayaker; and Hattie Hasan, founder of Stopcocks Women Plumbers. This unique event brings female plumbers, heating engineers and trainees together with industry representatives to celebrate their journey through the profession. In addition to this, the WIT Conference is also designed to inspire and raise awareness of this industry as an exciting career path for women.

https://fernox.com/

INDUSTRY-FIRST PROTECTION SOLUTION FOR HVAC SYSTEMS Two industrial and commercial water treatment companies have joined forces to create a ground-breaking product for the cleaning, treatment and protection of commercial heating and cooling systems. DosaFil-Duo® is the only device on the market to combine the safe dosing of solid or liquid chemical treatments into hot or cold closed recirculating water systems with constant side stream filtration and continuous air removal. Uniquely, the unit features smart monitoring technology as standard to ensure optimal filter bag replacement. Now field trialed for over 12 months, this proven technology protects commercial and industrial systems from the damaging effects of corrosion, limescale and fouling, thereby optimising the energy efficiency, performance and longevity of equipment.

01986 784759

sales@monarchwater.co.uk www.monarchwater.co.uk

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www.dosafil.co.uk

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CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS YOUR INSTITUTE NEEDS YOU! • Introductory Gas Training Courses (Commercial, Domestic & LPG) • ACS Domestic Core & Appliances and CPA • ACS Non-Domestic Core & Appliances • ACS Commercial Catering, Mobile Catering & Appliances • Swimming Pool Boilers • ACS LPG Core & Appliances (incl Boats, RPH, LAV, PD, Caravans) • LPG Generators • OFTEC Oil Assessment & Training (OFT 50, 101, 102, 201, 105e, 600a) & Solid Fuel • Un-vented & Vented Domestic Hot Water, Legionella and Water Regulations • Gas Supervisor Courses and courses designed for your specific needs • EAL Electrical Courses and Electrical Part P • Fire Alarm BS5839 and Security Lighting BS 5266 • Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Courses (Solar, Photovoltaic) • BESA F Gas Courses SOUTH WEST PENINSULAR TRAINING LTD Westover Trading Estate, Langport, Somerset TA10 9RB Tel: 01458 253493 Fax: 01458 253445 Email:info@swptraining.co.uk www.swptraining.co.uk

The CIPHE appreciates the sterling work done on behalf of the Institute by its volunteers. If you would like to take an active role in one or more of its working groups and committees, we would love to hear from you. Alternatively, you may wish to consider becoming a CIPHE Membership Ambassador – helping to promote the professional Chartered status and the many benefits and services CIPHE membership can provide. We welcome the opportunity to discuss the requirements further with you. Please contact Marie McCaffrey for details of our current voluntary positions. Marie McCaffrey, Membership Manager Direct Line Tel: +44 (0) 1708 463104 Email: mariem@ciphe.org.uk

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. 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, high street bookshop or order from the publisher at: www.combiboilerrepair.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

July/August 2018 September/October

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THERMAL STORES | ELECTRIC BOILERS | HEAT PUMP CYLINDERS | BUFFER STORES

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