Connections - Summer 2020 by Redactive Media Group

THE MAGAZINE FOR NICEIC AND ELECSA REGISTERED CONTRACTORS SUMMER 2020 | ISSUE 214 | Â£5.00

Brighter future How changes in the way we generate and use electricity will impact contractors

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SUMMER 2020 | ISSUE 214

CASE STUDY 20 David Adams shares the work that went into the revamped Bobby Moore Bridge’s impressive lighting

APPRENTICES 22 With the 2020 Apprentice of the Year curtailed by Covid-19, we spotlight our would-be ﬁnalists

COVID-19 24 How to safely build business back up as lockdown eases

FUTURE OF ENERGY 28 What will energy generation look like in future?

CONTRACTOR PROFILE 34 County Durham’s ITS Limited has made a name for itself servicing niche markets

TECHNICAL 38 Ask the experts 40 Requirements relating to protection against overload. Part 1 44 Requirements relating to protection against overload. Part 2 48 Retroﬁtting for a smart home 52 Apprentice Corner 56 Driving and controlling LEDs 62 The ‘good old days’

PRODUCT FOCUS 64 The latest products on the market

OFF THE TOOLS 65 ‘I set up a cinema in my back

1 2 Experienced Worker Assessment to HELLO 4 What does the world have in store

accredit occupational competence

for us, post-Covid-19?

TRAINING 1 4 The Covid-19 lockdown has accelerated

INDUSTRY UPDATE 6 The WIRE webinar programme;

NICEIC and ELECSA’s online training provision, says Neil Vincent

garden during lockdown’

CURRENT AFFAIRS 66 The most irritating email habits, new graphic novel stars electrician – and we’re not lion about this contractor’s unfortunate big cat encounter

improving EV charging installation

7 Work Safe. Safe Work campaign; the importance of a green recovery

CAUGHT ON CAMERA 1 7 This quarter’s dodgiest discoveries – from a poorly-thought-out paint job to an unfortunate rodent’s untimely end

COVER: IKON

8 Answering your questions on the Private Rented Sector Regulation

OPINION 1 8 Andy Speake on the dangers of carbon

11 New EAS on the way; government

monoxide poisoning, and the importance of ﬁtting alarms and detectors

to spend on construction

With developments around Covid-19 moving at a rapid pace, all information in this issue and elsewhere is correct as of Monday 13 July. Due to our printing and distribution processes, it has not been possible to factor in developments since that date. Many thanks for your understanding.

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T E C HN CAL KEVA N I PA RKER

Back to business We may be some way oﬀ how things used to be, but the electrical sector is slowly starting to adapt to a new reality

s I sat down to pen my article for the Spring issue, we were apprehensively adjusting to lockdown. Now, as we welcome summer, I am delighted to see we are beginning to emerge into what can best be described as a ‘new’ type of ‘normality’. At Certsure I am pleased to say we have taken steps to reintroduce face-to-face assessments in a safe and controlled manner. Working closely with you, we will continue to identify the assessment process best suited to your needs. This could be a remote assessment, a site visit or a combination of the two. Rest assured, safety is our priority and we will be operating ﬂexibly during this time. If you are due an assessment, your area engineer will be in touch to discuss your options. We are also closely monitoring the impacts of this crisis and other factors that will inﬂuence our industry to ensure we are best positioned to assist you, moving forward. To this end, two articles in particular caught my eye as I read this issue.

The ﬁrst is on page 24, discussing business continuity planning and the lessons we can learn from this pandemic. Few were prepared when Covid-19 struck; however, businesses with established crisis protocols in place did fare better in dealing with the fallout. The second is the article on page 28, which looks at the low-carbon agenda – something we all hear about daily. While I appreciate that the immediate priority for us all is getting through this challenging period, we must keep our eye on the ball in terms of what is ahead. Please take the time to read this feature; it covers a wealth of information and provides a rounded overview of this important topic. Before I leave you to enjoy the magazine, I would like to take a moment to personally thank those of you who worked during this crisis to keep the nation safe. I, along with everyone at Certsure, applaud you. Until next time, please keep safe and alert.

‘I would like to thank those of you who continued to work during this crisis to keep the nation safe’

Kevan Parker is managing director of Certsure

CO N TAC TS / CO NNE C T IO NS

Level 5, 78 Chamber Street, London E1 8BL EDITORIAL General 020 7880 6200 Editor Nick Martindale nick.martindale@redactive.co.uk Technical editor Timothy Benstead Sub editor Kate Bennett Designers Craig Bowyer Technical designer Adrian Taylor Picture researcher Akin Falope Publishing and business development director Aaron Nicholls ADVERTISING/MARKETING connections@redactive.co.uk 020 7880 6206

PRODUCTION General production enquiries 020 7880 6209 Senior production executive Rachel Young rachel.young@redactive.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS Should you require your own copy of Connections or multiple copies for your staff, subscriptions are available by calling 01580 883844 CONTRIBUTIONS Connections welcomes ideas for contributions. Please email nick.martindale@ redactive.co.uk

© Redactive Publishing Ltd 2020 Level 5, 78 Chamber Street, London E1 8BL Registered No. 3156216. All rights reserved. This publication (and any part thereof) may not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in any print or electronic format (including but not limited to any online service, any database or any part of the internet) or in any other format in any media whatsoever, without the prior written permission of the publisher. Redactive Publishing Ltd accepts no liability for the accuracy of the contents or any opinions expressed herein.

Printed by Precision Colour Printing Limited

ISSN 2042-5732

Recycle your magazine’s plastic wrap – check your local LDPE facilities to find out how.

WWW.NICEIC.COM WWW.ELECSA.CO.UK ENQUIRIES Certsure 01582 539000 Communications executive Debbie Shields 01582 539100 debbie.shields@certsure.com NICEIC Direct Paul Elcock 01582 539709 paul.elcock@certsure.com Twitter @officialNICEIC or @officialELECSA Customer services 0333 015 6625 Sales 0333 015 6626 Training 0333 015 6627 Technical helpline 0333 015 6628 Insurance 0333 015 6629

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INDUSTRY UPDATE

INDUSTRY COMES TOGETHER TO FOCUS ON COMPETENCE IN ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING

Webinars boost skills during lockdown During lockdown, NICEIC and ELECSA hosted 10 webinars reaching more than 10,000 people through its webinar programme the WIRE. Free and exclusive to NICEIC and ELECSA contractors, the programme covered topics such as RCD types and testing, EICR coding and SPDs, and delivered seven-and-a-half hours of CPD training. “We are delighted with the response,” said John O’Neill, NICEIC’S technical director. “When face-to-face training has had to pause momentarily, it is vital that we keep our registrants at the forefront of technical insight and developments, and the WIRE is proving to be the right tool for the job. “We are pleased with the viewing numbers but, for me, what is more encouraging is the feedback we are receiving from our customers,” he added. “Some 95 per cent rated the sessions as excellent, with 97 per cent conﬁrming they were extremely likely to tune in again. Reactions such as this prove to me that we are on the right

track and are providing the tools our registrants truly need.” In response to feedback, the WIRE is now running from its new regular slot of 8pm every other Wednesday. Moving forward, the WIRE will also introduce an all-new monthly feature, the ‘coding clinic’. Kicking oﬀ on 12 August, this new segment will analyse contractors’ images of electrical installations and discuss the appropriate EICR coding. Stay tuned to NICEIC and ELECSA’s social media to learn how to submit your images. Previous episodes of the WIRE are available to NICEIC and ELECSA contractors via the customer portal

Following an audit of installations done under the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS), which provides grant funding of up to £350 towards the cost of installing electric vehicle (EV) charge points at domestic properties across the UK, the leading certification bodies for the electrical sector have come together to ensure lessons learnt are used proactively to increase trust and confidence in the installation of EV charge points. The Electric Vehicle Homecharge schemes, which have funded the installation of more than 130,000 EV charge points, have been hugely influential in readying the UK electrical industry for the transition to electrification of the transport industry. It is vital that consumers have confidence in the quality of electrical installation work for EV charge points. A number of steps are being taken to improve the levels of competency of members of electrical competent person schemes undertaking this work, including embarking on a free, EV charge point-specific training programme that includes webinars and technical articles, and ensuring that any members who undertake this work have an EV charge point installation reviewed during their regular on-site technical assessments. John O’Neill, technical director of NICEIC and ELECSA, said: “Registered electricians clearly have a major role to play in supporting the electrification of transport, our homes and places of work. As an industry we fully support and align with the government’s position and want to work with contractors to ensure that consumer safety and trust in EV installation is retained. “That is why, as on-site assessments resume, we will increase our surveillance of EV charging installations where it is clear that contractors are undertaking such work. “We will continue to be both supportive and vigilant in the ongoing electrification of vehicles, working together with government to nurture and strengthen this important part of the low carbon strategy.”

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Covid-19 guidance issued to householders as work resumes NICEIC and ELECSA are backing new guidance issued to people who have tradespeople carrying out work in and around their homes. The Work Safe. Safe Work campaign has been developed ed by TrustMark with the Department tment for Business, Energy and Industrial ustrial Strategy. The booklet, which can be downloaded or given to the householder before visiting the property, gives practical advice about what Covid-19 safety measures should be discussed and carried out before, during and after work is done in and around their home. It sets out the need for conversations to be had with the tradesperson, and identiﬁes what types of tasks are the responsibility of the householder – such as disinfecting door handles before and after the tradesperson comes into the home.

The Work Safe. Safe Work campaign provides advice to people who have contractors working in their home

It also iden identifies which responsibilities lie with the responsibi tradesperson, such as providing tradespe own PPE, and gives simple their o and clear information on tasks that should be completed th and a list of helpful questions for customers to ask. Kevan Parker, managing director oof Certsure, said: “In post-lockdown days, it is really these post-lo important that our contractors and their clients feel safe and confident to continue to work. We fully support the Work Safe. Safe Work campaign and would encourage all our businesses to give the booklet to any of their customers before a job is started. We hope the campaign brings clarity and confidence to people when they have work done in their homes.” For more information and a copy of the booklet visit worksafesafework.info

IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK

SHOOTS OF GREEN RECOVERY MCS, the national certiﬁcation scheme for renewable technology, has warned of the need for investment in the green economy to boost economic and environmental resilience post-Covid-19. Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, believes the market is starting to recover, with the average number of installations for May increasing by 37 per cent compared to the previous month. “Currently this positivity shows a consistently improving picture,” he said. “As we emerge from the Covid-19 crisis and the global economic shutdown, there is no better time to ensure that

government policy enables our greener future. I think we have now hit recovery mode and have, I believe, a unique opportunity to refocus our eﬀorts and begin to reap beneﬁts in accelerating investment in the low carbon economy.”

VITAL INFORMATION DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC NICEIC and ELECSA have partnered with multiple organisations to help ensure contractors stay informed during the coronavirus pandemic. Five webinars oﬀered advice on a range of business topics, including guidance for small businesses and sole traders, the government’s furlough scheme, health and safety, and insurance. In early April, as lockdown began to bite, NICEIC and ELECSA teamed up with the Federation of Small Businesses and the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) to deliver a webinar looking at the Covid-19related support available to small businesses and the selfemployed. This was followed by a second one, run with ECA, that outlined how the furlough programme worked. Another session in May focused on best practice health and safety and how contractors could go about undertaking work in the current conditions. Darren Staniforth, NICEIC and ELECSA senior technical presenter, said: “We understand the angst many electrical contractors are facing as we adapt to a new type of normal. We hope that by raising topics which are pertinent to both our registrants and the wider industry we can oﬀer some guidance and clarity during in this uncertain period.” All NICEIC and ELECSA

MCS has called for a green recovery postCovid-19

business guidance webinars can be watched post-event via the NICEIC and ELECSA websites

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INDUSTRY UPDATE UPDATE INDUSTRY

Rental potential Following the introduction of the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Regulation for electrical safety checks, which came into effect on 1 July, we speak to NICEIC and ELECSA technical services manager Paul Collins to get his stance on your commonly asked questions CAN YOU GIVE US A QUICK OVERVIEW OF THE PRS LAW? Passed on 1 June 2020, the new PRS regulation requires that private rental sector landlords in England must ensure their properties are subjected to electrical safety checks (ESC) at least every five years. These must be undertaken by a competent person. If the company carrying out the ESC is not on the PRS register, the landlord must ensure the inspector signs a checklist certifying their competence and providing evidence of qualifications and relevant insurances. The regulations apply to new tenancies from 1 July 2020 and existing tenancies from 1 April 2021. If a rental is already underway on 1 July 2020, the property must have an ESC before 1 April 2021. For new or fully rewired properties with an electrical installation certificate (EIC), or properties with a valid EICR, an ESC will be needed within five years of issue. Landlords must also supply copies of the report to tenants and local authorities within specified time frames. For existing tenants, a copy of the report must be supplied within 28 days of the inspection and test. For new tenants, a copy must be supplied before they occupy the premises. Prospective tenants should receive a copy within 28 days of the request, and local authority requests must be satisfied within seven days. If the report shows remedial or further work is necessary, the landlord must ensure this is completed within 28 days, or sooner. When complete, written confirmation from the electrician must be supplied to the tenant and local authority within 28 days by the landlord.

DO CONTRACTORS NEED TO BE ON THE PRS REGISTER TO CARRY OUT CHECKS? The PRS register is a governmentendorsed database listing contractors who are approved to undertake safetycritical periodic inspections. Contractors appearing on this list are registered with a certification body such as NICEIC. As such, they will meet the relevant requirements and will have completed assessments to prove competency. All those on the list have declared they hold the required levels of professional indemnity insurance (£250,000) and that they operate in compliance with industry best practice guidelines, for example as set out by Electrical Safety First Best Practice Guide No4. The government is signposting this database as the ‘go-to’ directory for PRS checks in England, and all landlords and agents operating within the private rental sector in England will be directed to this register. It is not a legal requirement for landlords to use contractors on the register, but it is the easiest route to compliance. Should landlords wish to use an inspector not on the register, they will need to verify competency using a checklist as laid out by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). This will require the landlord to confirm the inspector’s experience, whether they have adequate insurance and if they hold a qualification covering current Wiring Regulations and the periodic inspection, testing and certification of electrical installations. Further guidance is available via MHCLG’s website.

WHY HAS NICEIC TAKEN THE DECISION NOT TO ENROLL ALL APPROVED CONTRACTORS AUTOMATICALLY? We have implemented an ‘opt-in’ process, to respect our contractors’ right to choose whether they wish to be considered for this type of work. The process to opt in is straightforward: visit our PRS registration page, which can be found within the ‘join us’ section of our website. Here they will complete a declaration conﬁrming they meet all requirements and from this point, once processed, they will be uploaded onto the PRS register, which can be found at electricalcompetentperson.co.uk WHAT IS THE SITUATION FOR CONTRACTORS OPERATING UNDER THE DOMESTIC INSTALLER AND ELECSA PART P SCHEMES? Contractors under these schemes will need to take additional steps to qualify for inclusion. Full details can be found on our website. In short, these customers will need to provide additional evidence and undergo an extra half-day annual assessment to verify their competence within this ﬁeld, as current NICEIC Domestic Installer and ELECSA scheme assessments do not cover periodic inspection. IS THERE A FEE FOR APPEARING ON THE REGISTER? For NICEIC Approved Contractors there is no additional fee. Contractors operating under the NICEIC Domestic Installer and ELECSA schemes will be required to undergo an extra half-day annual assessment, which will have an associated cost. HOW BIG IS THE POTENTIAL OPPORTUNITY HERE? There were 4.8 million homes in the rental sector in England in 2017-18, and this is forecast to grow to 7.2 million by 2025. MHCLG data suggests 78 per cent of landlords already have ESCs in place, which means around 22 per cent of properties could still need to be inspected. These properties may also require remedial works to bring them up to the required standard.

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13/07/2020 29/06/2020 17:39 09:32

INDUSTRY INDUSTRY UPDATE UPDATE

ELECTROTECHNICAL ASSESSMENT SPECIFICATION CHANGES FROM SEPTEMBER

NEWS IN NUMBERS

1 in 4 The amount of serious injuries occurring in the workplace, according to Fletchers Serious Injury. This includes spinal injuries, burns and damage from slips, trips and falls

15% The proportion of businesses expecting to grow in the third quarter of 2020, according to ECA research

The January 2020 edition of the industry Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) comes into effect on 1 September 2020. The document sets out the minimum requirements for an enterprise to be recognised by a certification or registration body (such as NICEIC and ELECSA) as technically competent to undertake design, construction, maintenance, verification and/or inspection and testing of electrical installations. Paul Collins, head of technical services, welcomed this move, saying: “The changes to the EAS place greater

42%

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The proportion of UK consumers who plan to invest this year’s holiday budget in home improvements instead, a Caribbean Blinds study ﬁnds

63% The proportion of engineering services businesses reporting difﬁculty in obtaining face masks in June, an ECA survey ﬁnds

£2.4bn IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK

focus on the enterprises’ requirements for ensuring employee competence when undertaking electrotechnical work, as well as requiring continuous professional development as part of the scheme requirements, among other enhancements outlined in the revised speciﬁcation. “We fully support the new measures and will ensure that new applicants will be required to meet the new requirements, as well as working on a programme to support and enhance the assessment of current registrants against a framework of technical excellence and competence.”

The value of construction contracts awards made in May, down 45.9 per cent on April and 52.3 per cent on May 2019, Barbour ABI ﬁnds

INFRASTRUCTURE BOOST FOR CONSTRUCTION Prime minister Boris Johnson has announced an infrastructure investment programme worth £5 billion, on top of existing commitments worth hundreds of billions of pounds. Mr Johnson has said that the government intends to “build our way back to health” following the coronavirus pandemic. The plans include major government spending on enhancing the UK’s built environment, including houses, schools, roads, railways, broadband, prisons and hospitals. A taskforce will be set up by the prime minister in order to fasttrack the government’s infrastructure plans.

The Electrical Industries Charity has reported an increase in people seeking emergency assistance or financial advice since the coronavirus pandemic hit. The organisation’s research suggests that 22 per cent of the electrical and energy sector lives week-to-week, and has seen more people struggling to make ends meet during lockdown. Its welfare team has been on hand to answer helpline calls and offer advice, signposting and financial services. One example was Steve, who the charity was able to help with deferring mortgage payments and creating a budget for his remaining outgoings. Others have received advice around paying off debts and accessing the government’s bounceback loan scheme, while some have been granted access to a small emergency fund. The Electrical Industries Charity is NICEIC and ELECSA’s official charity partner. If you are struggling with your finances or would like some support, please contact the charity welfare team on 0800 652 1618 or email support @electricalcharity.org

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INDUSTRY UPDATE UPDATE INDUSTRY

NEW EXPERIENCED WORKER ASSESSMENT A new assessment process to recognise electricians’ existing skills and experience has been launched by the industry. The Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA), which will replace the JIB Mature Candidate Assessment, accredits occupational competence for people who have been working as an electrician for, typically, more than five years but haven’t been able to complete an apprenticeship or achieve an equivalent Level 3 vocational qualification. Available from City & Guilds and EAL training centres, the new EWA is based on the same content as the current electrotechnical apprenticeship, so both new entrants and existing workers are assessed and accredited to the same industry standard. Before embarking on the EWA, candidates have to complete a detailed self-assessment ‘skills scan’ to help them consider if the route is right for them, before working with a training provider to complete the qualification via a combination of assessments and portfolio building. To complete the whole assessment process, learners will have to gain the

updated Experienced Worker Qualification, which comprises six practical performance units, plus units for BS 7671:2018 and Initial Verification. A key benefit of the EWA is that an electrician’s existing qualifications, skills and experience can count towards the experienced worker qualification criteria, so they will only need to provide evidence against any gaps. Once the qualification is gained, learners must undertake the AM2E assessment, which mirrors the AM2S End Point Assessment taken by apprentices at the end of their training. The EWA has been developed via an industry group comprising The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP), ECA, JIB, NET and Unite, Certsure (NICEIC & ELECSA), ECS, NAPIT, City and Guilds and EAL. It is recognised in the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification as equivalent to an industry apprenticeship, and achievement of the qualification, along with the AM2E assessment, meets the qualification criteria

for an ECS gold card application. “At a time when there is acute focus on competence and skills across the whole sector, the Electrotechnical Experienced Worker Assessment is a truly inclusive cross-industry eﬀort, providing clear leadership on how we accredit and recognise individuals to the same standard as our highly-regarded apprenticeship,” said Ruth Devine, managing director of SJD Electrical and chair of TESP and the EWA working group. “This will increase opportunities for individuals working in the sector. “By working together to improve how existing workers demonstrate occupational competence, we collectively drive standards and quality with this standardised and transparent process.” To ﬁnd out more about the Experienced Worker Assessment, visit www.the-esp. org.uk/ewa

Living through this period and having to manage the realities that come with it has been unsettling and challenging. Many have lost loved ones, and all of us have struggled to keep ourselves and our families safe. Add to this the enormous economic impact that has reached every sector of society, and it is fair to say that life changed considerably. However, new opportunities are opening up within our sector – key examples being legislation relating to the private rental sector and a renewed emphasis on the low-carbon/ net-zero agenda. We believe that, as we emerge from this crisis, the world will once again turn its attention to dealing with the issue of CO2 reduction and meeting the targets set out by our government and others around the world. We will see an increased demand for renewable energy generation, such as solar, wind and hydro (see p28). New technology introductions will play a more signiﬁcant role in how we heat and use energy in our homes. We will see a shift towards electric heat pumps, which are around three times more eﬃcient

than gas boilers. Home-based renewable power will also play a part as will smart technologies which control how energy and appliances are used within the home. When it comes to transport, the revolution is already underway, with all vehicle manufacturers citing electric vehicles in their current and future plans. Of course, the success of this change will be dependent on the provision of a ﬁt-for-purpose public and home charging infrastructure – something our industry will be instrumental in providing. It is wise to prepare and arm ourselves with the knowledge needed to ensure this shift happens seamlessly and safely. We must build upon this and upskill in areas such as renewable technologies, smart installations and EV charging to ensure we futureproof our industry and our nation.

John O’Neill is technical director of NICEIC and ELECSA

IMAGE: ISTOCK

Viewpoint: Renewed focus

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VIRTUAL LEARNING

Home education One of the side eﬀects of lockdown is how it’s forced people of all ages to embrace remote working and online learning. Those in the electrical sector can take advantage

Neil Vincent is head of training at NICEIC and ELECSA

e have witnessed enormous change since ‘Covid-19’, ‘coronavirus’, ‘social distancing’ and ‘furlough’ became common terms. And language isn’t the only thing that’s diﬀerent – we have also been forced apart from family and friends. With remote working the ‘new normal’, society has rapidly become more dependent on technology. Almost overnight, the world switched to communicating via screens. Tools such as WhatsApp and FaceTime are no longer reserved for the young; all generations are relying on them to connect. The face of business has also changed, with meetings once conducted around desks now taking place on desktops via online platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams. It is no surprise, then, that the companies behind these tools are thriving in an otherwise struggling economy. Microsoft recently saw 75 million use its Teams platform in a single day, while Zoom is averaging daily usage ﬁgures of 300 million. Why am I telling you this, and what does it have to do with NICEIC and ELECSA training? The answer is simple: it is proof that Covid-19 has accelerated our acceptance of technology, highlighting the need for organisations such as ours to embrace this cultural shift. Back in the Spring, I announced work was underway to deliver a new ‘virtual’ extension to our comprehensive training portfolio. Phase one of

this introduction is now live and operational following its launch in May. A suite of virtual courses is now offered alongside face-toface training, which will return as soon as restrictions are removed. Designed to deliver a compromise-free solution for individuals and businesses wishing to train remotely, the virtual classroom product is initially available across four of our most popular topics: electric vehicle charging, 18th Edition, emergency lighting fundamentals, and fire detection and fire alarm systems.

has been excellent. Attendees have praised the professional execution, quality of the technical content, and reusable reference materials, which we are told are very transferable to real-life scenarios. Moving forward, we will continue to develop both arms of our training portfolio. The virtual side will expand to include more topics, while the face-to-face portfolio will broaden in areas such as low-carbon technologies and installations. Both will continue to cater for individual contractors

‘Covid-19 has accelerated our acceptance of technology, highlighting the need for organisations such as ours to embrace this cultural shift’ Mirroring the findings and outcomes of NICEIC and ELECSA face-to-face training, virtual courses will be delivered live by expert tutors who will be able to communicate directly with delegates, answering questions throughout. Attendees will also benefit from detailed downloadable course materials and aids, which can be saved and stored for future reference. Extensively tested to ensure it is fit for purpose, the platform offers seamless, intuitive operation across PC, laptop, tablet and smartphone devices. To date, we have delivered 20 virtual courses to more than 150 delegates, and feedback

and organisations requiring a more bespoke package. Change is coming – not just in how we communicate, but also in the services we will be expected to provide moving forward. I urge you to arm yourself with the skills you need to take advantage of the opportunities that will arise as we exit this crisis. The tools are available in a variety of forms; please make use of them. Until next time, please take care and keep safe. To take advantage of our range of virtual learning options, visit www.shop. niceic.com/training/virtualcourses

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YO UR P I C T U R E S

Caught on camera

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

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he latest batch of shoddy work uncovered by NICEIC and ELECSA contractors features: dangerous electrics in a shared house (1); a mouse who had a fatal shock (2); a loose connection causing a car chargepoint to cut out (3); an unwanted paint job as the result of a fallout between a customer and a builder (4); and the cause of an intermittent fault in PVC trunking (5). It continues with: a plumber’s visit causes havoc before the second-ﬁx (6); an overcrowded and burnt-out consumer unit (7); a lost isolator hidden behind tiles in a kitchen (8); a taped joint buried in the ground with live cable ends exposed (9); and dodgy electrics on a shower installation (10).

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Thanks to... > Martin Jenner of MVJ Electrics in Whitstable > Timothy Greenaway of Greenaway Electrical in Birchington > Brian Palmer of My Favourite Electrician in Beaminster > Mahmood Yazdan of London-based Rad Property Solutions > Ben Staunton from Camberley in Surrey > Paul Bromley of AP Electrical in Nantwich > James Neill of Hull ﬁrm JNE Electrical Contracts > Phil Holman of Holman Electrical Services in Colchester > Alan Palmer of Ipswich-based Palmer Electrical > Paul Mills of P&S Electrical Services in Derby.

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Keep those shots coming in! Email caughtoncamera@redactive.co.uk

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CARBON MONOXIDE

Clampdown on CO There is a clear need to raise awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide and the importance of CO detection in the home, says Andy Speake

ften referred to as the silent killer, the issue of carbon monoxide (CO) needs bringing to the fore across the electrical industry. According to NHS figures, it is responsible for 60 deaths each year in England and Wales, with a further 4,000 people suffering symptoms of CO poisoning. Despite this, 2018 government figures showed that only 8 million homes had CO alarms. With the variety of mains-powered and battery detectors now available, there really is no reason not to fit one. As professionals, we have a duty to inform the general public on the importance of adequate protection for their homes and their families. Although there is some discrepancy in standards, regulations and legislation across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, raising awareness of CO and the need for adequate detection within properties is paramount across the entire nation. In Scotland it is a requirement for a CO alarm to be installed in every property with a fuel-burning appliance, and there are expectations for England and Wales to introduce further protective measures for CO in the future.

CO is a waste by-product produced by fuelburning appliances when there is incomplete fuel combustion. Common appliances that can give off CO are gas and open fires, stoves, boilers, central heating systems, water heaters and cookers. CO can be produced as a result of incorrectly fitted or poorly serviced appliances and is highly dangerous, as it is colourless, odourless and tasteless. Appliances with yellow or orange flames instead of blue flames, soot or staining around appliances, pilot lights that frequently extinguish, and an increase in condensation inside windows could all signal the production of CO. Early poisoning symptoms include headaches, dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, collapse and loss of consciousness. They are often confused with symptoms of other conditions such as flu or a hangover, which is why detection is imperative within the home. By increasing public awareness and understanding, the risk could be dramatically reduced and, ultimately, save lives. Andy Speake is national technical manager at Aico

IN FO C U S / JIM PIK E How did you come to set up?

I started my apprenticeship in the 1960s. I did my Approved Electricians course and a bit of industrial work, and then I went into the merchant navy for four years to get some DC experience. I did 47,000 sea miles and visited 27 diﬀerent countries. When I came out I worked for the Milk Marketing Board as a creamery engineer. In 1984 I started on my own in Harlow, and I haven’t looked back since. What kind of work have you undertaken? Jim Pike, Jim Pike Electrical Contractor

Pretty much everything. I did a lot of industrial, so fault-ﬁnding

on machines and industrial installations. I moved to the Forest of Dean and carried on there, and then did 14 years in Gloucestershire as a maintenance engineer. I lived in Torquay for a while and did some commercial and industrial work, and now I live in Taunton. I moved towards the domestic market because there’s not a great deal of commercial work in Taunton. How has the Covid-19 situation affected you?

I have to be a bit careful because of my health but I’ve done a few jobs. There’s not been much work around.

I believe you’re retiring at the end of the year?

Yes, I’m 69 this year and I don’t need the money. The commercial work is where the money is but then you worry about getting paid. I’d like to step back while I have time to enjoy life. How will you spend your retirement?

I’m looking forward to spending more time carp ﬁshing – and with my family. If you are a small business or sole trader and would like to feature in In Focus, email infocus@redactive.co.uk

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CASE STUDY

Lighting the way

The new lighting installation creates a ﬂuid display of colour that appears to move along the bridge

BY DAVID ADAMS

Since 1993, the Bobby Moore Bridge has been part of the Wembley Way without ever really catching the eye. Now a new lighting scheme makes it a much more ﬁtting tribute for a national treasure

undreds of thousands of people from all over the world have walked out of Wembley Park underground station in northwest London, then marched along Wembley Way to the present or the old Wembley Stadium, on their way to watch major football internationals, cup ﬁnals, or any of the other sports or music events staged at the stadium each year. If you have made this journey in the past 27 years you will have walked under the Bobby Moore Bridge, a pedestrian underpass that passes beneath the main road outside the station; named after the man who captained England to victory in the 1966 World Cup and died the year the bridge was built, in 1993.

The walk up Wembley Way can be exciting, but it is probably fair to say that walking under the bridge was not the highlight of the experience. The walls of the underpass were decorated with tiled murals depicting sporting and cultural ﬁgures who have performed at Wembley, but the space itself usually felt like a dark, cold, squashed-chips–and-litterstrewn holding pen – particularly for crowds of unhappy football fans returning slowly to the tube station after watching their team lose. LIGHTENING THE MOOD Today, thanks in part to specialist electrical contractor Wishbone Exterior Lighting, this is no longer the case. The underside of the bridge is now ﬁlled with almost 800 lights,

forming a bright, beautiful, fluid display of colour that moves across the walls and ceiling. This electrical art has turned the underpass into a calming, uplifting space, in keeping with the spectacular stadium at the far end of the Way – now one of the finest sports venues in the world. Wishbone’s director Branton Bamford founded the company as Wishbone Electrical just over 20 years ago, and during the past decade he and his small team have focused entirely on large-scale, artistic exterior lighting projects: in public spaces, outside commercial buildings, and at the homes and in the gardens of some lucky residential customers. The company name was changed in 2010 to reflect its dedication to the design, installation and maintenance of these projects. Branton has a background in the creative side of electrical work. Before setting up Wishbone he worked as an electrical consultant on the BBC’s interior/exterior design TV show Home Front; he has also advised the BBC on lighting for other programmes and events, including the Chelsea Flower Show, where Wishbone has also created some

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fantastic lighting displays during the past two decades. Many of the larger projects the company has worked on during the past 15 years have been completed in partnership with the consultancy The Light Lab, which brings designers and installers together, and this was the case for the Bobby Moore Bridge. The lighting concept and design were developed by Dixon Jones Architects and lighting design company Speirs + Major, with Wishbone then given responsibility for turning their designs and some sophisticated bespoke lighting components into the completed installation. The lighting installation is based on advanced SPI technology, which enables it to act as a blank canvas for complex artistic lighting designs. A Pharos LPC-X system controls the lights on the walls and ceiling of the bridge via Ethernet and DMX512 (eDMX) converters. The SPI Pixel Panels on the walls comprise 6,850 pixels and 27,400 channels of control, while SPI Linear Glowlines on the ceiling contain 1,652 zones and 6,608 channels of control. The Glowlines link the walls of the bridge across the ceiling, allowing patterns of lights to appear to travel across the bridge. The football section of the tiled mural behind the lights, which includes a memorial plaque dedicating the bridge to Bobby Moore, has also been renovated and relit within a window through the lighting installation. All the lights are protected behind toughened, laminated glass. Wishbone was not responsible for erecting the electronic advertising display boards erected on the bridge parapets over the entrances to the subway, but these have been designed to blend in with the installation. In recent months they have often displayed messages of support for the

NHS and other key workers during the coronavirus crisis. COLOURFUL CELEBRATION The installation itself has showcased the work of architectural design collective miriamandtom, which created a crossover display of angular coloured lights designed to reflect the local area and to inspire feelings of celebration. “You’ll see colourful patterns rise up the east wall, then flow over the ceiling and down the other wall,” says Branton. “So you have a circulating effect of colour.” Wishbone’s team of eight staff and specialist sub-contractors started work on the project in June 2019, immediately after the last major events of the football season, but their work was interrupted repeatedly by six music events that took place at the stadium during the summer, including concerts by Fleetwood Mac and the K-pop boyband BTS. Each time one of these events took place, Wishbone had to

800: THE NUMBER OF LIGHTS INVOLVED IN THE DISPLAY

The lights are protected behind toughened, laminated glass

the fact that the bridge was open to the public throughout the process. “Once we started working on the ceiling and we had mobile scaﬀolding towers, that was quite a challenge, putting us right in the middle of the general public,” says Branton. Nonetheless, the project was completed at the end of October. Branton is delighted that the company has been able to work on a bridge that is known to and used by so many people from all over the world. It is also a familiar landmark to local people – including him. “Having lived locally to the stadium all my life, it meant a lot to be involved in a project that breathed new life into what was essentially a tired underpass,” he says. “I have queued under it after FA Cup ﬁnals when my team has won and lost, and I hope that this art installation brings comfort to either set of fans on such momentous days.” In truth, of course, fans of the losing team probably won’t take much comfort from it – but they would have to admit that the lights look fantastic. David Adams is a freelance business journalist

pack everything away and leave the area completely before 1pm the day before the event, for security and safety inspections, and were then unable to start work again until 11am the day after the event. When the team were on site, Branton says the biggest technical challenge was installing the wiring between the Pharos controller, Ethernet switch and the eDMX converters, which create multiple ‘universes’ to control the lighting. The biggest practical challenge, aside from the regular stoppages, was

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A P P RE N T IC E S

Top talent

CAMERON MOSS, SCOTTS, BELFAST,

The 2020 NICEIC and ELECSA Apprentice of the Year competition, supported by partners Scolmore Group and Voltimum, was curtailed as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, eight bright sparks did make it to the ﬁnal, and represent the best of a new generation of electrical talent. Here we learn more about them, and how they found the competition

Cameron knew he didn’t want to go to university, but wasn’t sure what he did want to do. “At school my strongest subjects were maths and physics, which tie in closely with being an electrician,” he says. “So when someone told me about an apprenticeship in electrical engineering my interest piqued.” His college, SERC Newtownards, encouraged all electrical apprentices to enter the competition, but he was the only one to make it beyond the ﬁrst round. Getting to the ﬁnal has made him even more keen to learn. “It was a great feeling because it felt like I was getting recognition in a positive way,” he concludes. “Since joining, Cameron has continued to show skill and enthusiasm in all aspects,” says Scotts contracts manager Graham Willis. “We are delighted to have him on our team.”

BLAIR MANDERSON, FIFE COUNCIL, FIFE

ARCHY OLIVER, LOWE ELECTRICAL, LEICESTERSHIRE

Archy started a Level 2 electrical installation qualification at Leicester College as soon as he left school, and set out looking for opportunities with a local firm. “After two weeks’ work experience, I was offered to work the remaining days of the week that I was not at college. Once that year was over and I had gained a level 2 qualification, Lowe Electrical offered me the apprenticeship,” he says. He was encouraged to enter the competition by Leicester College, and thought he had nothing to lose by applying. “Everyone I came into contact with was very helpful and always had a great positive attitude,” he says. He’s justifiably proud of making the final and is optimistic that this will help him develop his career in future. “It’s very encouraging that the hard work I have put in is being rewarded,” he adds. Jon Lowe, managing director of Lowe Electrical, says: “Archy has shown a willingness to learn and improve from very start of his apprenticeship with us. We were delighted to hear about him becoming a finalist and this clearly demonstrates his skill, ambition and talent.”

Blair joined the industry straight from school, taking on an apprenticeship with Fife Council Building Services division. “I was looking into university options when the opportunity came, and I took it,” he says. He took part in the 2019 competition, when he also made it to the final. “I wanted to give a better attempt and try to win the competition this time,” he says. “We were delighted to be notified by NICEIC that Blair had again progressed to the final,” says Neil MacGregor, Fife Council team manager. “Competitions such as this not only highlight the individual’s commitment and success, but also reflect on our own apprentice programme.”

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JAMIE GOULDER, AW ELECTRICAL, DEVON

OLIVER JORDAN, LOWE & OLIVER, EASTLEIGH

Jamie came into the industry after his GCSEs, starting an apprenticeship with AW Electrical, based in Exmouth. “I wanted to learn a trade and I saw an advertisement for an electrical apprentice,” he recalls. He was encouraged to apply for the competition by his college tutor. “He said it would be a good opportunity,” says Jamie. “I’m happy to have made the ﬁnal and have shown myself I know more than I think I do.” “Everyone at AW Electrical is immensely proud of Jamie’s achievements,” says Adam Wheatley, managing director. “Reaching the ﬁnal is a clear indication of his skill and ambition and we are delighted to have him on board.”

After initially working as a gardener, Oliver took on an apprenticeship at the age of 21, initially working with a domestic business before moving to Lowe & Oliver to focus more on commercial work. He was told about the competition by his electrical tutor at Eastleigh College, and says it felt amazing to reach the ﬁnal. “My family and friends are really proud of me,” he says. “Hopefully I can enter next year and have a shot at the title then!” “Oliver has worked very hard over the last two years and it’s this and an excellent attitude that enabled him to reach the ﬁnal of such a prestigious competition,” says John Barrett, Lowe & Oliver contracts director.

SEAN MCNAMEE, CAPITOL ENGINEERING SERVICES, SURREY

Sean has always wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and work in a trade. “He advised me to go into the electrical industry as it’s very sought-after,” he says. Sean took on his apprenticeship with Surrey-based The Capitol Group after taking his GCSEs, and found out about the competition through NICEIC’s website. “I saw it as another training tool to test my knowledge,” he says. Getting to the ﬁnal has given him a conﬁdence boost. “It’s a very good feeling knowing I am able to put what I’ve learnt into practice,” he says. “Sean is very hard working and shows a great aptitude in his work,” says Adam Trevenna, service director at The Capitol Group. “He is a very talented and skilful individual.”

KATIE HARVEY, DARKE & TAYLOR, OXFORD

Katie Harvey started exploring apprenticeships after her GCSEs, and accepted an offer with Darke & Taylor. After learning about the competition through her apprenticeship provider JTL, Katie first entered in 2019, when she reached the second round. “I learnt from my mistakes and entered again this year,” she says. “I was more prepared and knew what to expect. “I’m really happy that I got through to the final,” she adds. “Last year I didn’t make it, so that meant I wanted to really prove myself this year.” Darke & Taylor has a long history of taking on apprentices, which currently account for 48 of its 200-strong workforce. “Katie has made brilliant progress with her apprenticeship, is hard working and a fantastic ambassador for young people and women in our industry,” says Simon Newton, Darke & Taylor managing director.

JAMES WHITE, FARADAYS, EASTLEIGH

James decided to retrain as an electrician after spending 15 years working as a plant mechanic, and took on a mature apprenticeship with Hampshire firm Faradays Ltd. He was made aware of the competition by his tutor at Eastleigh College. “I felt I was off to a strong start at Faradays and doing well at college, and with the support of my employer, tutors and colleagues I had the confidence to apply,” he says. “I am very proud to have made the final eight.” “Since joining in 2018, James has been a real positive member of the team and we are all immensely proud of him for reaching the finals of this competition,” says John Hilferty, sales director at Faradays Ltd.

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COV I D -19

Proceed with caution BY PENELOPE RANCE

Electrical contractors are slowly starting to return to work after many were forced to cease during the pandemic. But things are looking very diﬀerent and future lockdowns remain a real threat

COVID-19 HAS BEEN HARD ON

the electrical industry. Contractors have been unable to take on jobs, and with revenues cut, businesses have been forced to downscale, furlough staﬀ or cease trading. Emergency and essential work has continued, but with new restrictions. A survey of the electrical community carried out by Super Rod in late March found that 99 per cent of respondents had changed their overall day-to-day activities in response to the Covid-19 threat, with 70 per cent having jobs cancelled or delayed. Only 47 per cent were conﬁdent their business would come through the crisis, with 64 per cent expecting to see a long-term impact. As lockdown is lifted, the sector is starting to rebuild, and contractors can start picking up stalled jobs and exploring new opportunities. But they also need to be prepared for future crises. “The exit from lockdown will be precarious, with uneasy consumers, the potential for further pandemic waves, and new health protocols,” warns Dr Sandra Bell, fellow of the Business Continuity Institute (BCI). “Contractors should make sure they have a plan in case the government needs to close workplaces again.”

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BACK IN TOUCH Reconnecting with clients is the first step. Up your marketing to let them know you’re working again. “Focus on social media and your website, ensure all channels are updated and that opening hours are changed to reflect your current operations,” advises Riki Neill, director of RNN Communications. “By spending a couple of hours creating business profiles across various platforms, you could reach hundreds of new customers that will help your business rebuild.” Be mindful of how customers may have been affected by the pandemic. “Everyone will have been affected in some way,” points out Matt Darville, head of field performance at Certsure. “That could include domestic customers who are unwilling to let people into their homes through to commercial customers who may face a less-than-certain future.” Let furloughed workers know you’re moving forward. “It’s good practice to keep in touch with employees, checking how they’re getting on and updating them on where the business is,” says Andrew Eldred, director of employment and skills at the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA). “Keep them

updated about opportunities to restart work, and measures you’re taking to ensure their safety.” Larger organisations could consider moving into new markets that may be less aﬀected by the virus. OF Concentrate on those with the best CONTRACTORS returns, advises Rob Driscoll, the HAVE HAD ECA’s director of legal and business. WORK CANCELLED OR “Sub-contracting on commercial DELAYED AS construction may present a greater A RESULT OF COVID-19 proﬁt margin or volume, but it can be contractually brutal,” he warns. “The public sector has historically seen spending rise during recessions, so the post-Covid recession may provide opportunities.” Domestic work tends to involve more customer contact, so needs increased communication between contractor and client. “We have seen contractors amending behaviour and adapting to customers’ needs,” says Darville. “Discussing protocols before, during and after is key.”

70%

MINIMISE RISK Whatever sector you work in, you need to keep clients and staﬀ safe. Put Covid-19 controls in place, says Duncan Spencer, head of advice and practice at the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). “Vulnerable employees must

continue to isolate, but don’t forget clients if you work in homes. Check if anyone is vulnerable. If it’s emergency work, you may have to ask them to isolate elsewhere in the house.” Establish how jobs can be designed so employees can social distance. “Don’t double-crew vehicles,” says Spencer. “Inform customers about your social distancing rules and what you need them to do.” Hygiene saves lives, so clean vehicle cabs and shared equipment regularly. “Take anti-virus surface cleaner to wipe down surfaces before and after your work. Keep movement through the property at a minimum,” adds Spencer. “Work in a well-ventilated space if possible. Repeatedly wash your hands, especially before you get up from and return to a workspace.” If any staﬀ contract Covid-19, deepclean their vehicle and workspace. Insurance is also needed to protect staﬀ and clients. Whether you’re currently trading or not, you must have cover in place, including property, tools and vehicle insurance. “If you don’t have cover in place, an incident now, such as a theft, could mean it takes longer to get back to normal once restrictions ease,” warns Paul Buckle, NICEIC and ELECSA Insurance Services managing director.

IMAGE: GETTY

CASE STUDY: SHARESKILL with PPE to ensure safe working practices. “Both vans have medical masks for all staff, as well as gloves and hand sanitiser,” he says. As restrictions ease, the company is looking to pick up with existing clients and expand into new areas. “We’re starting to book some EICRs, and have work in two churches that are in lockdown,” Winch adds. “If there’s another lockdown, one idea we’ve had is to offer our services to companies with empty offices, where it would normally be hard to carry out EICRs or maintenance.”

Barnet-based electrical services company Shareskill has been directly aﬀected by the coronavirus restrictions. “Our main customer is a large letting company in St Albans, carrying out small repairs and EICRs every week,” says managing director David Winch. “Since the lockdown, tenants are refusing to let us in, so we’ve not been able to carry out the EICRs.” When lockdown began, the company applied for the government’s job retention scheme. “We took furlough for three workers,” says Winch. “It was easy to do, and payment was quick.” Employees not on furlough have been equipped

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COV I D -19

Public liability is essential to protect you if a customer or member of the public makes a claim against your business. “If you’re providing emergency services during the outbreak, your public liability insurance will only be valid if you’re following government advice – such as social distancing, wearing a mask and gloves, and disinfecting surfaces,” says Buckle. “You’ll also need employers’ liability to cover any staﬀ.” Don’t let professional indemnity lapse if you’re not trading, as it covers past jobs. “If someone puts in a claim for work you did previously, you need the correct cover in place at the time a claim is made,” says Buckle. He also has advice for anyone looking at opportunities in the private rental and electrical vehicle charger installation sectors. “It’s important your insurance keeps up with the services you oﬀer, so please speak with your insurance provider to make sure you have the right cover,” he says. “Anyone installing electrical vehicle chargers is covered under the NICEIC and ELECSA insurance policies.”*

packages and visitors in a safe manner should be drafted and enforced,” says Bell. Technology will also help. “Digital access and remote working were already the norm in our industry,” says Driscoll. “Cloud storage is the most resilient foundation on which to build fit-for-purpose IT systems. Even if you’re only on Dropbox, it means remote access is not problematic.” Make sure staff are set up to work remotely, and have the tools and connectivity they need. The best defence against lockdowns is a business continuity plan. “Start by identifying all of the constituent parts that make your business work,” says David Perry, managing director of the Federation of Small Businesses Insurance Service. “This will include key people, kit, supply chain, cashflow, premises and transport. “Give each component a score out of 10 for the likelihood of it being wiped out, and the severity to the business if it was. Then multiply the two numbers to create a priority score – with the highest being top of your list of issues to plan for.” Establish how you will manage each stage of lockdown, including immediate emergency response, crisis management and the recovery process – because your best chance of riding out future restrictions is preparation. Says Driscoll: “Proper planning is the key to successfully surviving the pandemic.”

‘Contractors should make sure they have a plan in case the government needs to close workplaces again’

CONTINUITY PLANNING With no vaccine or cure yet available, future lockdowns are a real possibility – put measures in place that will allow you to keep working. While a major outlay on electrical supplies may not be practical for sole traders and small businesses, it may be worth acquiring hard-to-source items and basic supplies to help futureproof against business interruption. Broaden your range of sources for important equipment. The Super Rod survey revealed that in the early days of lockdown, electrical workers spent 22 per cent more on online sourcing as they looked to new supply lines. If you are receiving more deliveries, take appropriate precautions. “Protocols for receiving

Penelope Rance is a freelance business journalist

*As with all insurance policies, terms and conditions apply. Please contact NICEIC and ELECSA Insurance Services for details or visit niceic-and-elecsainsurance.com

GOVERNMENT CORONAVIRUS SUPPORT • Self-Employment Income Support Scheme: Available to self-employed individuals and members of partnerships meeting certain conditions. Offers a taxable grant worth 80 per cent of trading profits up to £2,500 per month for three months, paid in a lump sum. A second and final grant claim can be made in August. gov.uk/guidance/claim-a-grant-throughthe-self-employment-income-supportscheme • Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: A grant covering 80 per cent of furloughed employees’ wage costs, up to £2,500 per month, plus employer NI and pension contributions, up to October. From July, employers can bring furloughed staff back part-time, paying a percentage of salaries. gov.uk/guidance/claim-for-wage-coststhrough-the-coronavirus-job-retentionscheme • Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS): SMEs can borrow £2,000-£50,000, up to 25 per cent of turnover. The government guarantees the loan and there are no fees or interest to pay for 12 months. Subsequently, the annual interest rate is 2.5 per cent. gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-a-coronavirusbounce-back-loan • Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS): For SMEs with annual turnover of under £45 million, no personal guarantees are required for loans up to £250,000. The government covers fees and interest for 12 months. british-business-bank.co.uk/ourpartners/ coronavirus-business-interruption-loanscheme-cbils-2

GETTING BACK TO BUSINESS • Government guidelines: gov.uk/coronavirus • NICEIC advice for contractors: niceic.com/covid-19 • FSB guidance for small businesses: fsb.org.uk/campaign/covid19 • ECA’s business recovery advice: eca.co.uk/business-industry-support/ coronavirus-back-to-work • BCI resources: thebci.org/knowledge/coronavirus • IOSH workplace safety advice: iosh.com/more/news-listing/coronaviruscovid-19-iosh-information-and-links • Coronavirus and insurance: niceic-and-elecsa-insurance.com/covid-19

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BECOME AN APPROVED INSTALLER Widen your portfolio by installing Rolec EV’s vast range of charging points. Get in touch with Head of Technical & Contractor Relations, Gary Frost for more: gary.frost@rolecserv.co.uk

@RolecEV / Rolec-Services www.rolecserv.com

13/07/2020 17:51

F UT URE O F E N E R GY

ONE OF THE UNEXPECTED

consequences of lockdown has been its positive environmental impact. It’s no wonder that many policymakers, scientists, activists and ordinary citizens believe that the post-Covid period of economic recovery represents a unique opportunity to tackle climate change. Public policy and an acceleration of existing trends will surely increase the use of renewables and other green technologies, while boosting sales of electric vehicles (EVs). All these things will create opportunities for electrical contractors. The UK’s electrical infrastructure has been in transition for some years, as electricity generation based on fossil fuels is phased out. The most recent UK government statistics show that renewable sources generated 36.9 per cent of the UK’s electricity in 2019, while coal, the source of 70 per cent of the

Brighter future BY DAVID ADAMS

The way we generate power is changing rapidly, and in a few years is expected to look very diﬀerent from how it does today. Contractors, too, will have to learn to adapt 28 S U MME R 2 02 0

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ZERO

ILLUSTRATION: IKON

UK’s power 30 years ago, generated less than 4 per cent. Between April 9 and June 10 2020, when lockdown cut demand for energy, the grid carried no coalgenerated electricity at all. The three coal-fired power stations still in use in the UK are now only used when other energy sources are operating at capacity, and are all scheduled to stop burning coal altogether within the next five years. Gas accounted for 39 per cent of electricity generation in 2019, but its use for power generation is also in slow decline. In some ways, where electricity comes from is neither here nor there to contractors. But the shift towards renewables, and possibly other energy sources such as hydrogen will have implications for this industry. As Paul Collins, technical services manager at Certsure, puts it: “Electrical contractors need to appreciate that what they do today will not be what they’re doing in five or 10 years’ time. Energy production, distribution and storage are all changing.” RENEWABLE REVOLUTION Many contractors already work with renewables as MCS installers, usually installing and maintaining solar PV and solar thermal equipment, but a growing number also now install heat pumps, and energy storage technologies that make renewables more operationally and financially efficient. Use of renewables by some commercial and industrial companies is well-established, in part because the numbers often stack up very well for heat pumps or larger solar PV installations. One major change we are likely to see during the next few years is a further increase in the use of renewables for powering and heating homes.

Although today few electrical contractors oﬀer heating system installation or maintenance services, Dan Caesar, managing director of the Fully Charged Show, which promotes low-emission vehicles, renewables and smart technologies, is among those who think this will change. “It could be electrical contractors that inherit the market for things like heat pumps, PV and solar thermal,” he says. “There’s quite a lot of other heating technologies as well, with things like underﬂoor heating coming to the fore. It’s an exciting time for that market.” In 2019 the government announced that no gas boilers currently manufactured will be installed in newbuild homes after 2025. It also launched a consultation on the planned Future Homes Standard within the Building Regulations. The results of that consultation have not been published at the time of writing, but it is reasonable to suppose that in the near future, unless hydrogen becomes a reality, new housing estates will be built without any connection to the gas network. Homes could instead be heated by electrical heaters and/or heat pumps, complemented by solar PV, solar thermal and energy storage devices that help to optimise energy use and costs. One contractor that already works with all of these technologies

‘Contractors need to appreciate that what they do today will not be what they’re doing in ﬁve or 10 years’ time’

THE PERCENTAGE OF THE UK’S ENERGY THAT CAME FROM COAL BETWEEN APRIL AND JUNE 2020

36.9 THE PERCENTAGE OF THE UK’S ELECTRICITY GENERATED BY RENEWABLE SOURCES IN 2019

£46.7BN THE TOTAL VALUE OF THE UK’S LOW CARBON AND RENEWABLE ENERGY ECONOMY

is Cambridgeshire-based Huttie Building Services, which offers building, electrical, plumbing, heating and renewables services. Managing director Michael Lowther says the company has been working with solar PV as an MCS installer since before the first solar PV market bubble burst 2012, and that in recent years demand has been growing at a healthy rate again. He explains that Huttie has benefited from retaining its MCS status, and is now installing and maintaining renewable electrical and heating equipment in newbuild housing and non-residential settings, including University of Cambridge colleges and department buildings. HEATING UP Installation of heat pumps makes most sense in very well-insulated buildings. The pumps are eligible for tariff payments via the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), which, while not as generous as the solar feed-in tariffs of a decade ago, adds a useful financial sweetener. The domestic RHI is due to close in 2022 and it is not clear at time of writing exactly what will replace it, but some form of additional support seems almost certain to be provided. Caesar thinks air source heat pumps “should be

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F UT URE O F E N E R GY

an absolute given” on well-insulated newbuild housing, although he admits it may be harder to make the numbers add up for less wellinsulated older homes. Martin Haley, external verifier and centre manager at NICEIC, suggestss one group of domestic customers that could benefit from heat pumps: householders who are off the gas grid and currently use oil-burning or standard electrical heating systems. “The problem is, boiler replacements tend to be a panic purchase,” he says. “But if you were to plan a change it would make sense to replace your boiler with a heat pump.” Huttie has installed heat pumps for a number of residential clients in new homes. All but one have been air source heat pumps; Lowther says the one ground source heat pump installed for a newbuild was “a very expensive choice, although I appreciate it is also the most efficient”. “Retro-fitting is also being talked about, but generally the costs put people off,” he continues. “But we are also now seeing more people not worrying as much about the

‘The struggle is not finding people who will buy. It’s communicating with them and finding contractors who will take that work on’

cost as they are worrying about the environment. To me, that’s a huge change in mindset.” SAVING IT UP Whatever the energy source, many electrical contractors will also be working with energy storage technologies in future. Some energy companies are helping to boost this market. For example, OVO is working with heat battery company Sunamp, with a heat battery eﬀectively replacing the water heating function of a hot water cylinder or gas-ﬁred boiler.

HYDROGEN – ENERGY SOURCE OF THE FUTURE? In February 2020 the UK government announced funding for Europe’s first low carbon hydrogen energy production plants, in Cheshire and near Aberdeen. Hydrogen could be used alongside or instead of natural gas within a modified gas grid. Much of the existing gas infrastructure and many gas appliances can already use a mix of 80 per cent natural gas and 20 per cent hydrogen. A pilot project is in use at Keele University, supplying about 100 homes and 30 faculty buildings. But it is difficult to imagine hydrogen replacing natural gas completely, because hydrogen is much less dense than natural gas, so more energy is needed to move it through the grid. There is also the need for carbon capture and storage facilities to

reduce the carbon emissions associated with hydrogen production. We may eventually see more vehicles on the roads that are powered by hydrogen fuel cells. Hydrogen-powered vehicles can be recharged more quickly than EVs, and the fuel cells and the tank storing the hydrogen are lighter than an EV battery, making hydrogen an attractive option for buses or trucks. Some business users are buying hydrogen vehicles: a London taxi ﬁrm now runs 50 hydrogen-powered cars. However, the vehicles are currently very expensive, and mass use of hydrogen vehicles would require major infrastructure changes. All the while, EV infrastructure will be attracting more investment as EVs become cheaper to buy and run.

Customers of energy service provider Boxergy combine smart energy tariffs with air source heat pumps and Sunamp batteries; or use solar PV with Soltaro electric heat batteries. Sunamp CEO Andrew Bissell believes thermal energy storage solutions have a bright future, in part because of their flexibility: they can be used with gas boilers, solar systems and heat pumps. “They’re cheaper to run than a gas boiler,” he says. “You can have space heating for 2p to 3p per kilowatt hour.” He cites a project for Gentoo Housing in Sunderland, which used Sunamp batteries and Kensa heat pumps to replace gas boilers in a 364-apartment tower block. As well as cutting costs, the project has reduced the block’s carbon emissions by 70 per cent, he claims. ON THE ROAD Meanwhile, increased use of EVs will also create work for contractors that install and maintain the charging infrastructure for them, at homes and workplaces and in public spaces. Caesar thinks mass adoption of electrical vehicles could happen much faster than most people expect. He points at how Tesla has transformed the EV into an aspirational status symbol within the space of just a few years. Lithium-ion batteries have improved performance, and Caesar thinks Tesla’s much-trailed ‘million mile’ lifetime battery for EVs, which industry analysts expect will be commercially available at some point during 2021, will give EVs a further, significant boost. The UK government is already committed to banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2035. Increased use of renewables, electrical heating systems, energy storage and EVs may also be combined in a scenario where electricity becomes a completely dominant power source: the socalled ‘electrify everything’ concept.

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LOW-CARBON FIX The UK is the ﬁrst major economy in the world to set a legally binding target to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. As a result, we are likely to see an increased focus on policies that can help deliver this goal. NICEIC is committed to guiding contractors and the industry through current and future challenges. That is why we are introducing a new series of short two-minute snippets to keep our contractors up to date on developments in the low carbon agenda. The series can be found by searching your favourite podcast platform for NICEIC Low Carbon Fix.

“Your new housing estate will have PV and you will have an electric car, so why wouldn’t you have a battery to store energy too?” says Haley. The battery may not necessarily be a state-of-the-art piece of kit – Haley thinks old car batteries could be used to store renewable energy in homes – or your EV may act as an energy store.

IMAGE: GETTY

SMART DEVICES Bissell says the other important elements of these systems will be smart meters and electrical devices

‘We are now seeing more people not worrying as much about the cost as they are worrying about the environment’

that can communicate with each other to optimise energy use in the home. Contractors may meet this need either by expanding the range of services they offer, or by working more closely with plumbers, heating engineers and other service providers to build and maintain more integrated electrical, heating and smart home systems. That will have an impact on skills, too. “I believe we need to train electrical engineers to look at whole-house solutions,” says Dani Putney, quality and risk officer at Certsure. “It would be really beneficial to the market, from apprenticeship level through ongoing training for more experienced staff.” It is certainly the case that the industry needs to train more people to work with all of these and emerging technologies and to be equipped to advise residential and commercial clients on their use. “The struggle is not finding

people who will buy,” says Caesar. “It’s communicating with them and finding contractors who will take that work on. I think there’s a huge opportunity for electrical contractors in heating.” Whether or not they are committed environmentalists, contractors that do this work will be contributing to a lower carbon economy, bringing broader economic, health, social and environmental benefits – while also boosting their own bottom line. The UK’s low carbon and renewable energy economy had a turnover of £46.7 billion in 2018, according to the most recent figures available from the Office for National Statistics. “This market is only going to grow,” says Putney. “This is not a business opportunity anyone can afford to turn their nose up at.”

David Adams is a freelance business journalist

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THE POWER TO PROVIDE FREE ONLINE TECHNICAL SUPPORT Free and exclusive to NICEIC and ELECSA contractors THE WIRE is an in-depth technical webinar series covering the topics which matter most. New to this series of THE WIRE, NICEIC and ELECSA’s EICR coding clinic, looking at your images of electrical installations and coding them.

UPCOMING DATES AND TOPICS LIVE AT 8PM 29th July

Earthing and bonding

26th August

Electricity at work regulations

12th August

EICR coding clinic

9th September

EICR coding clinic

WHY TUNE IN TO THE WIRE? FREE AND EXCLUSIVE FOR NICEIC AND ELECSA CONTRACTORS

INTERACTIVE – OPTION TO ASK QUESTIONS THROUGHOUT

RELEVANT CONTENT TO REFRESH YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND HELP YOUR BUSINESS

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If you are unable to tune in live you can ﬁnd previous webinars via the NICEIC or ELECSA customer portal.

the power behind your business

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13/07/2020 17:53

TO VIEW ALL FUTURE WEBINARS VISIT NICEIC.COM/EVENTS OR ELECSA.CO.UK

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13/07/2020 16:20 17:53 25/06/2020

CON T RAC TO R P R O F I L E

Lee Crowther started ITS Limited when he moved to County Durham to convert a barn, and set about building a business serving specialised markets BY NICK MARTINDALE

Niche work B

ased in the beautiful village of Frosterley in Weardale, ITS Limited (Integrated Technical Solutions) has been serving County Durham and the north of England since 2003. Founder Lee Crowther has been in and around the electrical industry since 1985, when he undertook an apprenticeship with an electrical contracting firm in his hometown of Oldham. “Our main work was in pubs and the NHS, including a sixweek ward refurbishment which snowballed into a twoyear contract at Rossendale Hospital,” he recalls. The electrical contracting company would go out of business shortly after – the result of being exposed to nonpayment from a larger contractor – but Lee found employment with its sister company, working on fire and security systems, and went on to manage the firm before joining a time recording and access control company. It was all perfect grounding for the business he would go on to start up, but it was meeting his future wife, who was from the north-east, that would see it happen – and which explains the shift in location. “We had the opportunity to convert a barn on

my brother-in-law’s farm, and I thought that it might be time to start my own business,” he says. He started off working for himself in and around Manchester and Oldham, which he says allowed him to test the waters and get the basics of running a small business, bookkeeping and customer service set in place. “Then I came up to the northeast and started the business again, but I’d been going up and down a bit by then, so I knew a couple of lads in other trades,” he says. “I put my finger in a lot of pies because I didn’t think I had enough just working for one or two customers, and I still work for quite a lot of them now. I then got an apprentice to expand further. When he came out of his time we got another van and took on another apprentice, and we grew and grew. Now I have a minimum of about eight lads working for me, which seems to be the right amount to cope with our workload.” The firm is still based on the farm and has

plenty of storage, he adds, meaning it has no need for dedicated premises. Initially, the focus was largely domestic, including taking on jobs in rented properties after building up relationships with local estate agents. “We did a lot of newbuilds and barn conversions too, which is quite a big thing because of the area we live in,” he says. “But I also brought with me the knowledge of fire and security, which not everyone has to my standard. I still have that today; a percentage of our business is fire and security, and I’m always looking at any new technologies that come along to see if it’s something we can do.” More recently, the firm has branched into commercial and industrial work. “We still do domestic work and have customers from 17 years ago, but we’re not chasing it,” he says. “There are too many one-man bands out there, and a lot of the time the

‘We had the opportunity to convert a barn on my brother-in-law’s farm, and I thought that it might be time to start my own business’ 34 S U MME R 2 02 0

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IMAGES: JOHN MILLARD/ UNP

end-user in a domestic property isn’t bothered about the quality of it as long as it works and is cost efficient. The jobs are few and far between, and there’s not much profit in them.” LIFE OF LEISURE Over the years, the company has built up a number of specialist areas. One of these has been caravan parks, including working for the Caravan and Motor Home Club in association with CPES Ltd, and the larger caravan and holiday parks. “Our name got passed on by one of the wholesalers to one of the caravan park firms, and we ended up looking after six parks for them,” says Lee. “Then it snowballed and our name got around the industry a bit more, so we’d get a lot of private parks asking us.” A recent project was at a newbuild site near Penrith, worth

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around £270,000. “It was a mixture of holiday lodges and private caravans to buy,” he says. “We did the hook-ups, the distribution, the pub, reception area, petting farm, street lighting, the hot tubs and even some safari tents. That was a big job, around six months’ work.” The ﬁrm has also moved with the times by branching into electric vehicle charging, working with a number of manufacturers and becoming OLEV approved. This led to it becoming a partner for Rolec Services, installing charging points and helping to design caravan parks and temporary power supplies for stadiums and events. Another notable project from around three years ago was helping a local worktop manufacturer install a £10 million machine that would enable it to print images on to worktops – the only one in the world with The this capability. “There

were three other companies from around the world involved in this – one on the mechanical conveyor system and the machinery, one on the printer and one on the software side – and we put all the electrical elements together,” he says. “We helped to put in a new substation because the capacity wasn’t big enough on-site. We put lighting in the area and installed a cable tray network with a suspended busbar chamber, so we could tag on all the control connections and the down structure for pipework and cables.”

SPREADING OUT Being based at the top of the Pennines means the ﬁrm can cover the whole of the northeast, County Durham, North Yorkshire, the north-west and Cumbria. “We’ve always said our area is of the M62 corridor up

number people the company employs, including Lee and an oﬃce manager

13/07/2020 18:15

CONTRACTOR PROFILE

to the border of Scotland, and coast to coast,” says Lee. “But we can go anywhere and have recently starting working with a new customer in London.” After a number of years when turnover remained steady, the past few years have seen an increase of around 50 per cent, he adds. As for his own role, Lee is now largely off the tools and spends most of his time in the office, quoting for work and overseeing the engineers, including two apprentices. He’s supported in this by a part-time office manager. However, the company offers a 24/7 response service for both new and existing customers, and it is often Lee who takes on such callouts. “With the Caravan and Motor Home Club, for example, we get four-hour responses, so if I have to get someone to North Yorkshire and all the staff are up in Newcastle, I can stop what I’m doing and go straight away,” he says. “I go out to quotations and site visits, make sure the jobs are run properly and run the place, and 10 per cent of me is going out on the tools.” Running the business is allconsuming, admits Lee. “It is hard work,” he says. “You have the idea that you can have all the time off you want and more money than you know what to do with, but if anything it’s the other way round. You’re rarely on holiday and you can’t switch off, and my phone is the 24-hour callout number so I don’t get a weekend or a night off.” CONFRONTING THE CRISIS As with all companies, the coronavirus pandemic had a big impact on the firm. “We went to the last minute with the jobs we had, but we could see that everything was shutting down – and then the small amount of residential work we had was put on hold,” he says. “I ended up furloughing everyone apart from myself.” Things are starting to pick up again now as more and more

‘We went to the last minute with the jobs we had, but we could see that everything was shutting down’ Company ITS Limited Established 2003 Major projects Work for the Caravan and Motor Home Club; installing EV charging points for Rolec Services

people return to work, although sourcing personal protective equipment has proved challenging. The plan for the future is to continue to grow on the back of long-standing relationships – Lee believes hitting £1 million turnover is realistic. “If some of our clients grow the way they’re saying they want to, then we will go with the ﬂow and build our business to suit them,” he says. “But we’ve got plenty of work in niche markets, where there’s not many people doing what we do.” The electric vehicle market should also provide a source of future growth, he believes, both as a result of new commercial projects and also the emerging second-hand market, which could see a need for domestic installations.

In time, it’s possible Lee will need more support in running the business, and he has a manager who takes control of the day-to-day operations when he’s on holiday. “I wouldn’t say I’d move anyone into the office just now because I think it works okay as it is, but if I had more staff and we had to expand because of our customers then I would have to get someone else in,” he says. Further down the line, with no next generation likely to want to come into the business – he has two daughters but neither is keen to get involved – it’s possible that a sale could be an option. “I looked once at what it was worth to sell, just out of interest,” admits Lee. “But if I did sell it I’d like the lads to buy it, maybe paying me weekly or monthly through the profits, so they don’t have to put a lot into it and they have a ready-made business that they know inside out. That’s the ideal scenario.”

Nick Martindale is editor of Connections Could your business feature in Connections? Email contractorproﬁle@redactive.co.uk

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technical

Your industry-leading reference guide to technical information 38

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

Requirements relating to protection against overload. Part 1 A look at the requirements in BS 7671 concerning protection against overload current

Requirements relating to protection against overload. Part 2 The circumstances in which the provision of overload protection may be omitted, according to BS 7671

Retroﬁtting for a smart home Things to consider when installing wireless smart devices within the home

Apprentice Corner

THE NICEIC AND ELECSA PUBLISHING TEAM

How do series-connected loads aﬀect voltages, currents and power?

Tim Benstead principal technical author Jonathan Elliott senior technical author Terry Bratley technical author Craig Waslin technical author Chris Long technical engineer Alex Whitworth technical illustrator

Driving and controlling LEDs Where and how LED drivers may be used, and which BS 7671 requirements apply

The ‘good old days’ The perennial importance of inspection and testing certiﬁcates

HELPLINE Sam Donaghy technical engineering manager Duncan McFarlane technical helpline engineer Norman Bradshaw technical helpline engineer Mark Cooper technical helpline engineer Richard Atkins technical standards engineer Mark Barnes-Rider technical helpline engineer Craig Kemp technical helpline engineer Craig Cunningham technical helpline engineer

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T E C HN I CAL

Ask the experts

QU E ST I ON

Following on from Q1, what are the requirements in respect of documentation which must be issued on completion of the inspection and testing? ANSWE R

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

Q UE STIO N

Following the introduction the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, which came into force on 1 June 2020, what are the requirements for the frequency of periodic veriﬁcation of premises covered by the Regulations? A N SW E R

Part 2 of these regulations deals with the duties of private landlords in relation to electrical installations. Regulation 3, paragraph (1) states that, in relation to electrical installations, a private landlord who grants or intends to grant a specified tenancy must ensure that: (a) the relevant electrical safety standards given in BS 7671: 2018 are met during any period when the residential premises are occupied under a specified tenancy; and (b) the electrical installation in the residential premises is inspected and tested at regular intervals by a qualified person; and (c) the first inspection and testing is carried out: (i) for a new tenancy, before the specified tenancy commences; or (ii) for an existing specified tenancy, by 1st April 2021. Regulation 3, paragraph (2) states that for the purposes of sub-paragraph (1)(b) “at regular intervals” means: (a) no more than five years after the initial certification of the electrical installation or the issue of an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) where the overall assessment of the installation, in terms of electrical safety and suitability for continued use, is stated as being satisfactory; or (b) where the most recent report under sub-paragraph (3)(a) requires such inspection and testing to be at intervals of less than five years, at the intervals specified in that report. Do you have a technical query? Call our helpline on 0333 015 6628

A2. Regulation 3, paragraph (3) requires that following the inspection and testing required under subparagraphs (1)(b) and (c) a private landlord must: (a) obtain a report; that is, an EICR, from the person conducting that inspection and testing, which gives: • the results of the inspection and testing, and • the date by the next inspection and testing should be carried out; (b) supply a copy of that report to each existing tenant of the residential premises within 28 days of the inspection and test; (c) supply a copy of that report to the local housing authority within seven days of receiving a request in writing for it from that authority; (d) retain a copy of that report until the next inspection and testing is due and supply a copy to the person carrying out the next periodic inspection and testing; and (e) supply a copy of the most recent report to: (i) any new tenant of the speciﬁed tenancy to which the report relates before that tenant occupies those premises; and (ii) any prospective tenant within 28 days of receiving a request in writing for it from that prospective tenant. QU E ST I ON

Following on from Q2, what action must be taken when the overall outcome of the report is unsatisfactory as a result of the ﬁndings obtained during the periodic inspection and testing? ANSWE R

Regulation 3, paragraph (4) requires that where a report under subparagraph (3)(a) indicates that the installation does not meet the relevant electrical safety standards

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given in BS 7671: 2018 and the report requires the private landlord to undertake further investigative or remedial work, the private landlord must ensure that such investigative or remedial work is carried out by a qualified person within: (a) 28 days; or (b) where the person who compiled the report has specified a timescale, the period specified in the report if less than 28 days, starting from the date of the inspection and testing. Regulation 3 paragraph (5) further requires that where paragraph (4) applies, a private landlord must: (a) obtain written confirmation from a qualified person that the further investigative or remedial work called for in the report has been carried out and that: (i) the relevant electrical safety standards given in BS 7671: 2018 are now met; or (ii) further investigative or remedial work is required; (b) supply written confirmation, together with a copy of the original report which required the further investigative or remedial work, to each existing tenant of the residential premises within 28 days of completion of the further investigative or remedial work; and (c) supply written confirmation, together with a copy of the original report which required the further investigative or remedial work, to the local housing authority within 28 days of completion of the further investigative or remedial work. Regulation 3 paragraph (6) states that where further investigative work is carried out in accordance with paragraph (4) and the outcome of further investigation is that further investigative or remedial work is required, the private landlord must repeat the steps in paragraphs (4) and (5) in respect of that further investigative or remedial work. The regulations can be downloaded from: www.legislation.gov.uk/ uksi/2020/312/contents/made

Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government guidance can be found at: www.gov.uk/government/ publications/electrical-safetystandards-in-the-private-rented-sectorguidance-for-landlords-tenants-andlocal-authorities What are the requirements/ recommendations for the interval between periodic inspections in houses in multiple occupation (HMOs)?

A house in multiple occupation (HMO) is a property rented out by at least three people who are not from one ‘household’ (for example a family) but share facilities like the bathroom and kitche. If an HMO is a tenant’s only or main residence and they pay rent, then these Regulations apply to the HMO. The Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England) Regulations 2006 previously put speciﬁc duties on landlords around electrical safety. This requirement has now been repealed, and HMOs are now covered by the new Electrical Safety Regulations. HMOs with ﬁve or more tenants are licensable. The Housing Act 2004 has been amended by these Regulations to require a new mandatory condition in HMO licences ensuring that every electrical installation in the HMO is in proper working order and safe for continued use.

In Scotland: The Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation: Statutory Guidance for Scottish Local Authorities states that: • Appropriate certificates; that is for the fixed installation, an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) or formerly a Periodic Inspection Report (PIR), be available to show that the electrical system for the property is safe (paragraph 4.10.7) • The EICR has been renewed at least every five years, or earlier if this was directed in the EICR (paragraph 4.10.8).

QU E ST I ON

What are the requirements/ recommendations for the interval between periodic inspections/ veriﬁcations for solar PV systems? ANSWE R

Clause 9.2 of BS EN 62446-1: 2016 Photovoltaic (PV) systems – Requirements for testing, documentation and maintenance – Part 1: Grid connected systems – Documentation, commissioning tests and inspection states that the initial verification report issued on completion of the verification of a new solar PV installation shall make a recommendation for the interval between periodic inspections. It further states that this shall be determined having regard to the type of installation and equipment, its use and operation, the frequency and quality of maintenance and the external influences to which it may be subjected. Clause 5.1 of that standard states that the interval between verifications shall be no longer than the interval required (or recommended, as appropriate) for the AC electrical system to which the PV system is connected. QU E ST I ON

In a similar vein to Q5 above, What are the requirements/ recommendations for the interval between periodic veriﬁcations for circuits supplying EV charging points? ANSWE R

In the absence of speciﬁc instructions from the operator of the charging equipment installation or other guidance, in many cases it would be reasonable to inspect/test the EV charging circuit at the same intervals as the installation from which it derived its supply.

www.gov.scot/publications/licensingmultiple-occupied-housing-statutoryguidance-for-scottish-local-authorities

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T E C HN I CAL

Requirements relating to protection against overload. Part 1 O B JE C TIVE

This article looks at the general requirements of BS 7671 relating to protection against overload current, whether provided in isolation or in conjunction with fault current protection. A subsequent article will look at situations when overload protection may be omitted.

Basic requirements for overcurrent protection A protective device must be provided to disconnect any overcurrent in live (that is, line and neutral) circuit conductors before such current could cause danger due to thermal or electromechanical eﬀects which could be detrimental to insulation, connections, joints, terminations or the materials immediately surrounding the conductors (430.3). The term overcurrent encompasses currents resulting from both fault and overload conditions. BS 7671 permits both the omission of overload (see Regulation group 433.3), or fault protection (Regulation group 434.3) in certain prescribed situations. It is, however, common for a single protective device to provide both types of overcurrent protection in a circuit. Where this is the case, if the overload protective device meets the co-ordination requirements of Regulation group 433.1 and has a rated short-circuit breaking capacity not less than the prospective fault current at that point in the circuit then, in general, it can be assumed that the overload device can also provide the necessary fault protection for conductors downstream from its point of installation.

Such co-ordination of overload and fault current protection is not necessarily provided in the case of fault current protection of conductors in parallel (434.4), or where noncurrent-limiting circuit-breakers are used. Where either of the above applies, compliance should be conﬁrmed on a caseby-case basis (435.1). In most cases, where a neutral conductor has a cross-sectional area at least equivalent to that of the associated line conductors, and the current in the neutral is not expected to exceed that in the line conductors, it is not necessary to provide either overcurrent detection or a disconnecting device in the neutral conductor (431.2.1). Overcurrent detection – as opposed to disconnection – is required in a neutral conductor of a polyphase circuit in situations where the harmonic content of the associated line currents may cause the current in the neutral conductor to exceed its as-installed current-carrying capacity. The overcurrent detection must cause disconnection of the line conductors, but not necessarily the neutral conductor (431.2.3).

Co-ordination between a conductor and an overload protective device To prevent the persistence of a small overload of long duration, the following conditions must be met: (i) The rated current or current setting of the protective device (In) must not be less than the design current (Ib) of the circuit, and (ii) The rated current or current setting of the protective device (In) must not exceed the lowest of the current-carrying capacities (Iz) of any conductor in the circuit, and (iii) The current causing eﬀective operation of the protective device (I2) should not be more 40 S U MME R 2 02 0

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Fig 1 Co-ordination between a conductor and an overload protective device

1.45 lz

lz Circuit cable

Source of supply l(A)

lb < ln

l2 < 1.45 lz

OCPD

Load

l2 OCPD - Overcurrent protective device than 1.45 times the current-carrying capacities (Iz) of any conductor in the circuit (433.1.1).

and • Copper line and neutral conductors are used, having a cross-sectional area of either: • 2.5 mm2, or • in the case of mineral insulated cables, 1.5 mm2, and • The lowest of the current-carrying capacities (Iz) of any conductor of the circuit corrected for ambient conditions is not less than 20 A, and • The load current in any part of the circuit is unlikely to exceed the current-carrying capacity of the cable for long periods (433.1.204).

The above can be expressed as: Ib < In < Iz and I2 < 1.45 < Iz Where conditions (i) and (ii) are met (and Ib ≤ In ≤ Iz), condition (iii) will also be met where the following protective devices are employed: • general-purpose (gG) fuse to BS 88-2 • fuse to BS 88-3 • circuit-breaker to BS EN 60898 or BS EN 60947-2 • RCBO to BS EN 61009-1 (433.1.201).

Devices providing protection against both overload and fault current Any device providing both overload and fault current protection, except as permitted by Regulation 434.5.1, must be capable of breaking, and for a circuit-breaker making, any overcurrent up to and including the maximum prospective fault current at the point where the device is installed (432.1). Utilising a single device to provide both overload and fault protection is not always a practical proposition. In such cases, a designer may choose to use diﬀerent devices for the two functions.

Where a circuit is protected by a rewireable fuse to BS 3036, condition (iii) will be met where the rated current (In) of the fuse does not exceed 0.725 times the lowest of the current-carrying capacities (Iz) of any conductor of the circuit. In ≤ 0.725 x Iz

(433.1.202)

For cables buried, either directly in the ground or within ducts, where tabulated current-carrying capacity is based on an ambient temperature of 20 °C, compliance with condition (iii) above is achieved where the rated current/current setting of protective device (In) does not exceed 0.9 times the lowest of the current-carrying capacities (Iz) of any conductor of the circuit (433.1.203). A ring ﬁnal circuit is deemed to comply with the requirements of Regulation 433.1.1 if the following conditions are met: • Accessories such as socket-outlets and connection units to BS 1363 are used, and • The circuit is protected by a 30/32 A device complying with the BS 88 series, BS 3036, BS EN 60898, BS EN 60947-2 or BS EN 61009-1,

Devices providing protection against overload only A device providing protection against overload current only may have a rated short-circuit breaking capacity lower than the prospective fault current at its point of installation, although the operating characteristics of the device must be co-ordinated with the conductor being protected in accordance with Section 433 of BS 7671 as described previously in this article (432.2).

Location of overload protective devices In general, a device for overload protection is required at the point where a reduction occurs in 41 S U MME R 2 02 0

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T E C HN I CAL

Fig 2 Overload protective device positioned at a point of reduction in current-carrying capacity of conductors

Summary

the current-carrying capacity of the conductors of the installation (433.2.1). If there are no outlets or spurs after the reduction in cross-sectional area, the protective device may be installed along the conductor provided that: • Protection against fault current is provided, or • The length of run before the overload protection device does not exceed 3 m, and the circuit is installed in a manner that reduces to a minimum the risk of: • a fault, and • ﬁre or danger to persons (433.2.2).

A protective device must be provided to break any overcurrent in the circuit conductors before the overcurrent causes damage to insulation, connections, joints, terminations or the surroundings of the conductors (430.3). In prescribed circumstances, BS 7671 permits protection against fault currents and overloads to be provided by a single protective device or by separate means (Section 432).

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T E C HN I CAL

Requirements relating to protection against overload. Part 2 O B JE C TIVE

Omission of overload protection

This article follows on from Part 1 which summarised the general requirements of BS 7671 in respect of protection against overload. This article looks speciﬁcally at circumstances where the provision of overload protection may be omitted.

In general, a device for overload protection is required at the point where a reduction occurs in the current-carrying capacity of the conductors of the installation. However, except where a location presents a risk of ﬁre or explosion, overload protection need not be provided:

Fig 1 Co-ordination between a conductor and an overload protective device

6.0 mm2 4-core SWA cable

Metallic adaptable box where conductor size increases

Fire stopped

10 mm2 4-core SWA cable

DB1

Hot plant room ≤ 45 °C

DB2

Room at normal ambient temperature ≤ 30 °C

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Fig 2 Example of reduction in conductor size not requiring overload protection (433.3.1 (ii))

1.5 mm2 twin & earth

Chipboard floor

Ceiling

3 Engineered ‘I’ joists with knockouts

Ceiling rose

• For a conductor: • on the load side of a point where a reduction in the value of current-carrying capacity occurs if the conductor is eﬀectively protected against overload by a protective device installed on the supply side of that point, or • which, because of the characteristics of the load or the supply, is not likely to carry overload current; • Where the Distributor agrees that their overload device(s) provide(s) overload protection between the origin and the main distribution point of the installation (provided that overload protection is provided at that point) (433.3.1).

carrying capacity of the cable to be appropriate for the part of the route where it is installed (523.8). An example of this is where part of a circuit passes through an area of signiﬁcantly higher ambient temperature or through thermal insulation. Rather than installing conductors of a single size, which would be oversized for the majority of the circuit length, crosssectional area may be increased for only that part of the circuit run where this is necessary. In such cases, protection against overload protection is not required at the point of reduction of cross-sectional area where the co-ordination requirements of regulation group 433.1 are met between the smallest conductor and the protective device at the origin of circuit.

Overload protection of circuits can also be omitted for safety reasons, where unexpected disconnection of supply could cause danger or damage. Regulation 433.3.3 gives a number of examples of where this would be appropriate, including the secondary of a current transformer and circuits supplying safety services.

Motor circuits (indent (ii)) It is common to place the overload protection of a motor at the ‘load’ end of the circuit as an integral part of the starting equipment. The circuit supplying the starter is therefore incapable of being overloaded. Fault protection is provided by the overcurrent protective device (OCPD) at the origin of the circuit. The beneﬁt of such an arrangement is that certain OCPDs, if selected/set to provide overload protection, will operate when the motor starts as a result of the starting current.

Examples of omission of overload protection for all or part of a circuit in accordance with regulation 433.3.1 Varying conductor sizes in a circuit (indent (i)) BS 7671 permits the variation of conductor size where heat dissipation varies along the length of a circuit but requires the current45 S U MME R 2 02 0

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T E C HN I CAL

Fig 3 A service fuse can provide overload protection of meter tails (regulation 433.3.1 (iii))

Isolator switch (where fitted)

Circuit protective conductors

Consumer tails

Main switch Service fuse provides overload protection of consumer tails (see Regulation 433.3.1. indent (iii)) 100A Earthing conductor

supplier’s metering equipment and the ﬁrst piece of consumer’s equipment where the conditions speciﬁed by the distributor are met; see indent (iii) of Regulation 433.3.1.

Circuits supplying showers, instantaneous water heaters and limited loads (indent (ii)) Circuits supplying ‘electric’ showers and other instantaneous water heaters cannot by their nature cause an overload. As a result, overload protection is not necessary. Similarly, the flexible cables of pendant lamps and other light fittings connected to a ceiling rose will not be exposed to overload current due to the nature of the load and so overload protection does not need to be provided, despite the reduction in conductor size and currentcarrying capacity when compared to that of the fixed wiring of the lighting circuit.

Summary A protective device must be provided to break any overcurrent in the circuit conductors before the overcurrent causes damage to insulation, connections, joints, terminations or the surroundings of the conductors (430.3). BS 7671 also allows for the omission of overload protection where its provision may present a risk of damage or danger (433.3.3), protection is provided by another means, or where it is not possible for an overload to occur (433.3.1).

Consumer’s meter tails (indent (iii)) Overload protection does not need to be provided for the meter tails between the

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T E C HN I CAL

Retrofitting for a smart home switching on/off larger current loads, usually associated with a radial circuit, and with some offering the facility for live energy monitoring. Many manufacturers are now incorporating smart control as a feature within their products; for example, within external passive infra-red (PIR) detectors, LED flood lighting, various lamps across all common ranges and smoke/ heat detectors. However, with so many smart devices available, having varying operational characteristics and setup configurations, there may be compatibility issues when attempting to synchronise multiple devices in the home. Manufacturers’ instructions for compatibility should always be carefully considered prior to using smart devices.

O B JE C TIVE

This article looks at the installation of wireless smart devices and aims to provide guidance to the contractor when they are required to install such types of devices.

Introduction Many new installations include the provision for smart control, typically installed during the initial construction, based on a systembus type configuration using multi-pair or data networking cables. However, increasingly, home owners are requesting the retrofitting of wireless smart devices within their home as a means of providing smarter and more convenient control of lighting, heating and security monitoring. Regulation 537.3.1.3 of BS 7671 permits the use of such smart devices that are capable of interrupting the current using semiconductors for the purpose of functional switching. Typically, devices consist of an in-line unit that is placed in circuit between the supply and the equipment to be controlled; for example, between the switch and a group of luminaires. Most offer the facility for dimming luminaires and timing functions; additionally, changing of colour rendering index (CRI) of the light output may also be possible, although this is dependent upon the type of luminaire installed. Having such functionality provides the means to set up lighting scene scheduling. Smart control is usually through an app with a tablet, phone or other hand-held device. Devices such as an in-line relay controller, typically rated up to 16 A, are capable of

Accessibility Smart devices used to control luminaires are often small and designed to fit within a confined space, such as within switch boxes or in a ceiling space adjacent to the luminaire. However, when installing such devices remote to the item of equipment to be controlled, only those suitably marked according to the relevant product standard, as shown in Table 55.3 BS 7671, should be used (Regulation 559.6 refers). Careful consideration must also be given to the location of such devices and the means of providing future access necessary for subsequent inspections and maintenance, as it may prove difficult for someone unfamiliar with the installation to discover the location of such devices (Regulation 513.1). Where it may be difficult to identify switching devices or controlgear used for smart control, a suitable means of identification shall be provided (Regulation 514.1.1). Recording the location of such devices on a certificate or accompanying drawings may be appropriate. 48 S U MME R 2 02 0

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Fig 1 Smart hub controller with inbuilt, ZigBee, Z-Wave and Wi-Fi communication protocols

sm ar th ub

DC Reset USB LAN

Control

ZigBee Communication Protocols

Many low energy networks require a coordinator device, typically a hub or a controller usually connected directly to the router and Local Area Network (LAN), as shown in Fig 1. The hub is the root of the network, providing a link between paired ZigBee and Z-Wave and other similar types of smart devices from various manufacturers, and is usually the first device to be set up during the initial installation of a smart home, prior to connecting other devices. The hub holds data relating to the LAN, such as its IP address, which provides the gateway for granting access to the hubs network while remote from the home. The hub also provides a security centre for the connected smart devices1. As an example of the type of control available, the activation of an external Z-Wave PIR flood light within the garden may instigate a signal sent directly back to the hub, or through other connected smart devices on the network prior to reaching the hub. This may then switch on lighting within the house and, in addition, send a notification to a phone, alerting the user that an activation has been detected.

As previously mentioned in Connections 213 there are various types of wireless communication protocols allowing data to be sent and received between smart devices or nodes on a network. The ZigBee protocol forms a number of different subsets tailored for different industry applications, such as ZigBee Home Automation (ZigBee HA), ZigBee Light Link (ZigBee LL) and ZigBee Building Automation (ZigBee BA). These are based on IEEE 802.15.4, a technical standard for low-rate wireless personal-area networks (LR-WPANs) and are intended for relatively lowlatency communication applications requiring a low power consumption. ZigBee creates a mesh network in which each interoperable device, depending on manufacturer, is able to communicate with the next device, although range is generally limited to approximately 10 m. Some sensor devices, typically battery-powered door contacts and PIR detectors, operate in the 868 MHz frequency band and have 1 channel (channel 0), with typical data transfer rates of 20 kB/s; adequate for simple on/off commands2. However, most

1 Some manufacturers producing equipment with inbuilt ZigBee and Z-Wave protocols are starting to introduce controller hubs allowing communication across multiple platforms from diﬀerent manufacturers. 2 Multi-purpose sensors incorporating thermostats and accelerometer for temperature and vibration monitoring tend to operate on 2.4 GHz due to the transfer of greater amounts of data.

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T E C HN I CAL

Fig 2 Wi-Fi channels 1, 6 and 11 using the same frequencies as ZigBee channels 11 – 22

Wi-Fi Channel 1 2412 MHz

Channel 11 2405 MHz

Channel 13 2415 MHz

Channel 12 2410 MHz

Wi-Fi Channel 6 2437 MHz

Channel 15 2425 MHz

Channel 14 2420 MHz

Channel 17 2435 MHz

Channel 16 2430 MHz

Channel 19 2445 MHz

Channel 18 2440 MHz

Channel 21 2455 MHz

Channel 20 2450 MHz

Channel 23 2465 MHz

Channel 22 2460 MHz

Channel 25 2475 MHz

Channel 24 2470 MHz

Channel 26 2480 MHz

System reliability

(230 V) and/or (12 V – 24 V) in-line devices operate within the 2.4 GHz frequency band, allowing a further 11 channels (16 – 26). At this frequency greater amounts of data can be transferred – around 250 kB/s, providing for a faster response of connected devices including, instant lighting on/oﬀ, dimming and colour rendering commands while allowing information updates for accurate energy monitoring.

Z-Wave communication protocol Z-Wave devices are specifically designed for low energy communication within a smart home system. This particular protocol operates within the short range frequency band of 868.44 MHz and provides full interoperability between products from different manufacturers signed-up within the Z-Wave alliance3. Although generally having a reduction in speed of transmitted data between devices compared to that of ZigBee, the typical range for communication between devices is increased to 30 m (through obstacles) and up to 100 m where there is line of sight. Where a signal cannot be sent directly to the receiving device, the network will automatically re-route the signal via other devices, theoretically increasing the range of the network. Signals received from a Z-Wave device on the network are reconfirmed by the receiver before being re-transmitted around the network to the applicable receiving device. For improved security and reliability, the number of devices permitted on a Z-Wave network, typically 232, is fewer than for a ZigBee network. The number can be increased with the option to bridge networks. Likewise, using the sub 1 GHz frequency band range for Z-Wave also enhances reliability and removes the risk from further interference from other neighbouring 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and ZigBee networks.

Wi-Fi Channel 11 2462 MHz

3 Membership to the Z-Wave alliance allows a consortium of manufacturers access to the protocol and provides reassurance to the end-user of compatibility between products. 4 Problems may still arise depending on the channel settings of devices and overlapping signals. 5 Factory resert often allows the controller device to randomly select a new channel. Note: all previous network data including lighting scenes and schedules will be removed.

When installing smart devices, consideration must be given to the risks associated with system reliability such that the normal operation of essential lighting, heating and other types of equipment within the home is not impaired (Regulation 512.1.5 refers). The loss of communication between smart devices and equipment may leave such systems vulnerable and unable to function correctly. As a result, the homeowner may interpret the problem as an electrical fault, when in fact other environmental conditions are most likely to be the cause. Materials used within the building’s construction, such as structural steel work and other types of metallic cladding, are likely to have an impact upon the low powered RF signals, and may disrupt communication between devices. For example, using GU10 smart lamps within a metallic ﬁre rated down light may lead to a reduction in network range. It should be noted that test instruments for site assessments and commissioning of equipment based on IEEE 802.15.4 are available. Consideration must also be given to other types of RF equipment within the home, especially when installing ZigBee devices, as this may impact on system stability. Neighbouring networks and/or devices connected to Wi-Fi operating within the same 2.4 GHz frequency band while at greater power output may increase the risk of interference, leading to an intermittent or a complete loss of control of equipment or ZigBee connected devices. As shown in Fig 2, the power output from signal overlap from Wi-Fi channels 1, 6 and 11 may be greater than that required for operation of low powered ZigBee devices, and could lead to a breakdown of communication.

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Fig 3 Changing the channel from Auto within the router administration page to mitigate network interference

WE BG EA R gen ius

WEBGEAR

Generally, the risk of a total loss of control may be signiﬁcantly reduced during light usage over Wi-Fi4, although equipment utilising full bandwidth, for example during the download of large data packets typically while streaming 4K television or during online gaming, may greatly increase the loss of communication. In an attempt to mitigate communication issues, it may be possible to connect all peripheral Wi-Fi devices within the home to the 5 GHz frequency band, if permitted, although this will typically reduce the range of connection of devices to the network router or access point AP. Other options may include changing the channel settings within the router or AP for the 2.4 GHz wireless network, as shown in Fig 3. This can normally be achieved within the administration set-up for the wireless network, which by default is normally pre-set to automatic. However, some settings may be limited and vary between router manufacturers. As shown in Fig 2, deactivating Wi-Fi channel 11 within the network router settings would allow the ZigBee channels 25 - 26 to be utilised without the risk from interference. Also, some manufacturers allow the frequency settings for

their smart devices or equipment to be modiﬁed either through a controlling app or by applying a factory re-set of the controlling device (hub)5. These functions may be limited and manufacturer dependent.

Summary A careful assessment of pre-existing RF equipment used within the building should be carried out before attempting to install wireless smart devices. Reference should be made to manufacturers’ information as part of this assessment. Account must also be taken of where steelwork exists or there is likely to be heavy use of Wi-Fi (for example gaming). The location of installed devices and the possible need to maintain network coverage within diﬃcult areas must be considered to avoid the loss of essential services. The provision for future access to smart devices must also be considered with locations of such devices recorded for future reference.

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Apprentice Corner

The power consumed by each resistor in a purely resistive circuit can be found by one of three methods: • Method 1, using the supply current and the resistance: P = I2 × R • Method 2, using the supply current and the voltage dropped across a resistor: P = U × I • Method 3, using the voltage dropped across a resistor and the resistance: U2 P= R Methods 1 and 2 are the ones most frequently used in electrical work when power lost or consumed is to be determined. It is worth noting that power is proportional to the current squared and the voltage squared. Since the current is constant in a series circuit, the voltage is divided across the number of elements in the circuit. The voltage dropped across a resistor in a series circuit is equal to the value of that resistor divided by the total circuit resistance and multiplied by the supply voltage. For example, the voltage across R1 can be found from: R1 U1 = Us × R1 + R2 + R3

Resistance Part 3 Series-connected circuit The aim of this Apprentice Corner article is to consider how voltages, currents and power are aﬀected by seriesconnected loads. This will be complemented using an example, a scenario and a number of multiple-choice questions

Introduction In previous issues of Connections it was stated that the resistance of a material was dependent upon conductor material (resistivity), length, cross-sectional and temperature. Within this issue it will be shown that the way in which loads are connected can affect the current drawn from the supply, the voltage lost due to circuit resistance and the power available at the load. Only resistive loads will be considered. The effects of reactance will be dealt with in a subsequent article. It would be useful if you had to hand the previous editions of Connections dealing with resistivity and temperature coefficients, or the Site Guide produced by Certsure.

Series connected resistors For series connected resistors as shown in Fig 1, the total resistance is the sum of each individual resistor: Rt = R1 + R2 + R3 + ....Rn. The current drawn from the supply will pass through each resistor equally and will therefore be a constant value (always remember: current is constant in a series circuit1). There will be a voltage drop across each resistor that, when added together, will equal the supply voltage2. Current drawn from the supply: I =

U Rt

where US is the supply voltage. It is useful to get into the habit of using subscripts to denote the element being determined, as it makes it easy to follow the working out process.

Example

1 Kirchhoﬀ ’s current law – the algebraic sum of the currents at a junction in a network is zero. 2 Kirchhoﬀ ’s voltage law – in a closed loop, the algebraic sum of the emfs acting round the loop is equal to the algebraic sum of the pds in the loop.

A radial circuit wired in PVC/PVC ﬂat twin and earth cable fed from a 230 V supply has three resistive loads, connected as shown in Fig 2. What is the volt-drop in each section and the voltage at each load? The resistance of the circuit cable can be found in one of two ways. Table A1 of Appendix C of the Site Guide (published by Certsure LLP) shows that 6 mm2 copper conductor has a resistance of 3.08 mΩ/m (per conductor line or neutral) at 20 °C. Alternatively, from table 4D5 of Appendix 4 of BS 7671, a 6 mm2 cable has a mV/A/m value of 7.3 at 70 °C (in eﬀect mΩ/m). When either value is adjusted to the other temperature, the values are almost identical.

Fig 1 Series circuit

Voltage drop across a resistor: U1 = I × R1, U2 = I × R2 and U3 = I × R3 52 S U MME R 2 02 0

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Volt-drop in section B – C: UBC = I × R = 10 ×(2 × 12.1 × 10-3 × 5) = 1.21 V

Fig 2 Radial circuit

6.0 mm2

2.5 mm2

15 m Supply

1.5 mm2

12 m

Voltage at C: UC = UB – UBC = 222.21 – 1.21 = 221 V

Load A 20 A

Load B 12 A

Load C 10 A

For example, converting 7.3 mV/A/m from 70 °C to 20 °C: Using R70 = R20[1 + α(T70 – T20)]

Total voltage dropped due to cable resistance is 9 V. From Table 4Ab of Appendix 4 of BS 7671 the maximum allowed voltage drop is 5 % (11.5 V), therefore this circuit satisﬁes the volt-drop constraints.

Scenario 1 7.3 = R20[1 + 0.004(70 – 20)] and transposing gives R20 = 7.3 = 6.08 mΩ per metre 1.2 This compares very closely with the value from Table A1 of the Site Guide: 2 × 3.08 = 6.16 mΩ per metre: Volt-drop in section O – A: UOA = I × R = 42 ×(2 × 3.08 ×10-3 × 15) = 3.88 V Voltage at A: UA = U – UOA = 230 – 3.88 = 226.12 V Volt-drop in section A – B: UAC = I × R = 22 ×(2 × 7.41 ×10-3 × 12) = 3.91 V Voltage at B: UB = UA – UAB = 226.12 – 3.91 = 222.21 V

3 Strictly speaking the element resistance will vary slightly with temperature.

A customer complains that their electric shower doesn’t heat the water sufficiently. The shower nameplate says the shower is rated at 8 kW at 240 V. The shower circuit has a length of run 26 m in total and is wired in 6 mm2 and installed to reference method C. The supply voltage is measured to be 223 V. What is the actual power the shower is able to deliver? The circuit arrangement is show in Fig 3 and the simplified circuit is shown in Fig 4. To calculate the voltage at the shower terminals would normally involve determining the design current (Ib) and using that in the voltdrop equation (mV/A/m × Ib × l × 103). However, in this instance this method is not ideal since the shower rating is at a non-standard voltage. A different approach is required, which is to consider the shower forming a series circuit and to use Ohm’s law. Using the resistance values from Table A1 of Appendix C of the Site Guide: Cable resistance from supply to isolator: R1 = 2 × 3.08 × 10-3 × 20 = 0.1232 Ω

Fig 3 Shower circuit

6 mm

Cable resistance from isolator to shower: R2 = 2 × 3.08 × 10-3 × 6 = 0.037 Ω

Resistance of shower element:

20 m 6m

Supply

U2Shower 2402 U2 ∴ R3 = Shower = = 7.2 Ω R3 8 × 103 P

Voltage at the shower terminals: 8 kW

7.2 R U3 = U × R + R3 + R = 223 × 0.1232 + 0.037 + 7.2 1 2 3

@ 240 V

= 218 V It was mentioned earlier that power is proportional to the voltage squared therefore, power available from the shower:

Fig 4 Simpliﬁed diagram

R1 = 0.1232 R2 = 0.037 Ω

( ) () 2

R3 = 7.2 Ω

UR3 = 8 × 218 = 6.6 kW UShower 240 The voltage at the supply and hence at the load appears low in value, but they are within Pout = PShower

220 V

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the tolerance permitted by clause 27(3) of the Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations, which is 230 V –6 % +10 %, giving a range of 216.2 V and 253 V. A future issue of Connections will consider loads connected in parallel.

Area Engineer / Darren Walker When did you ﬁrst become an Area Engineer for NICEIC? I joined Certsure in June 2017 and became an Area Engineer in April 2018.

Multiple-choice questions 1. Four resistors of value 46 , 54 , 66 and 88 are connected in series. It is required to modify their combined resistance to 280 by replacing one of the existing resistors with a new resistor of value 80 . Which original resistor should be replaced? a) 46 Ω c) 66 Ω b) 54 Ω d) 88 Ω 2. The element that is constant in a series circuit is: a) Current c) Resistance b) Voltage d) Power 3. The current through a heating element is 6 A when the voltage is 120 V. What voltage must be applied to obtain a current of 4 A? a) 240 V c) 180 V b) 120 V d) 80 V

How has the job changed in that time? It’s too soon to tell!

Darren Walker Bedford NICEIC and ELECSA employ 80 ﬁeld team staff to assess contractors’ work and provide up-to-date technical advice. To many of you they will be the face of NICEIC and ELECSA that you see regularly. Here we turn the tables and put them in the spotlight

If you could have a superpower, what would it be? I’d like to able to control electricity (only joking)! If you had a day off tomorrow, what would you do? I would keep things simple and go for a long walk in the local woods with my wife, kids and dog. Favourite book, ﬁlm and TV programme? I haven’t got a favourite book per se but anything from Andy McNab to James Patterson. Favourite ﬁlm would be anything from Lone Survivor to Saving Private Ryan.

6. For the series circuit of Fig MC 1, determine the value of R1

24 V 96 W

U2 = 8 V

What’s the strangest request you have had? I’m lucky enough not to have had a strange request yet.

What are your interests outside of work? Any outdoor activity or sport.

5. In the scenario considered earlier, what will be the power available at the shower if the supply voltage was increased to 253 V (230 V +10%)? a) 8.0 kW, cannot exceed maximum rating of shower b) 8.5 kW, power increased due to voltage increase c) 6.6 kW, current is constant in a series circuit d) 7.0 kW, due to increase power loss in the circuit

What’s the strangest thing you have come across on an assessment during your time with NICEIC? I once carried out an assessment on a tiger enclosure.

What interesting jobs have some of your contractors being involved with? This is one of the privileges with my job. I get the chance to have an insight into the contractor’s world. One day I’m walking around a dismantled WW2 Spitﬁre and the next day a £55 million townhouse in central London.

4. The current ﬂow through the ﬁeld coils of a motor is 4 A when the resistance is 500 . Due to a rise in temperature, the resistance increases to 550 . If the voltage remains the same, what will be the new current value? a) 3.64 A c) 2 A b) 4.4 A d) 4 A

What are some of the biggest changes within the industry that you have come across in that time? In the short time I have been within this position it would have to be the obvious, so the 18th Edition and the focus on surge protection devices.

What’s the one best bit of advice you would give to electrical contractors? Anything can be achieved with a positive attitude.

16 W

Fig MC 1

a) 6 Ω b) 2 Ω

c) 3 Ω d) 1 Ω 54 S U MME R 2 02 0

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Commercial

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Driving and controlling LEDs O B JE C TIVE

Introduction

Using LED drivers for a bespoke lighting installation can be confusing due to the diﬀerent types and variations for their connection that are available. The aim of this article is to describe the function of LED drivers, to highlight where and how they may be used, and also advise on which requirements of BS 7671 apply.

This article continues with the theme of smart devices ﬁrst introduced in Issue 213, and is to be read in conjunction with the article titled ‘Retroﬁtting the smart home’, located on page 48. LED lighting has become the technology of choice for all types of installations due to its long lifespan, energy savings, instant operation at switch-on and the bespoke lighting schemes and control methods that are available. When turning an existing luminaire that is controlled by a local switch into a luminaire that can be remotely controlled via an app and/ or other sensors, it will usually be necessary

Fig 1 Conversion of a luminaire to be controlled remotely

OUT L-N LEDs wired in parallel JB IN L-N 3-plate

L-S/W

S/W - N

Load limit of driver

L1 - N1

Dimmable lamps (230 V) +

LED Remote on/off and dimming module

Existing

On - off control only

Conversion to remote control

* Can be replaced with a rotary dimmer + Lamp would need to be dimmable if a rotary dimmer was fitted

Smartphone

Hub

Remote control

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10V

V+

DC IN 12/24 V

V-

DIM CONTROLLER

Model: Dim 1-10-240 Dimmable by 0-10 V Signal 10x1 channel output

OUTPUT

LED+

OUTPUT

Fig 2 LED drivers

SIGNAL IN

to install an additional smart device1. This increasingly popular option for control may be necessary, for example, when required to turn a single pendant within a room into several down lights, as shown in Fig 1. When selecting smart devices for the control of such LED luminaires, reference should be made to the manufacturers’ literature for compatibility.

LED+

LED -

LED drivers

N L

SEC DC 12 V

Where a constant voltage driver is used, the LEDs will be connected in parallel. Most common constant voltage drivers (or power supplies) operate at 12 V DC or 24 V DC. An LED that is rated for constant voltage usually

PRI AC 230 V

Constant voltage drivers

Low voltage DC driver

An LED driver is a self-contained power supply whose output is typically matched to the electrical characteristics of the LED(s) it is supplying. However, the stability of the LED and associated driver is likely to be dependent upon its method of installation, such as methods taken to keep it cool, and the type of circuit conﬁguration of the LEDs, which may be constant current or constant voltage. It is essential that suitable precautions are taken when installing LEDs and their drivers to prevent thermal runaway occurring. Because thermal runaway occurs when an LED module has exceeded its operating temperature for whatever reason, the LED module is likely to draw more current than it needs for a particular light output, due to a reduced resistance in the silicon. This typically leads to a shortening of the life expectancy of both the LED and the driver. LED drivers form the interface for the extralow voltage and low voltage circuits. These components are generally Class II (double insulated) and provide, at the outgoing terminals, a source suitable for meeting the requirements for the protective measure SELV. LED drivers are not a ‘one size suits all applications’ component. As mentioned above, manufacturers make available both ‘constant current’ and ‘constant voltage’ drivers, and these are rated in a range of currents and wattages to suit most applications. There are two main types of drivers, shown in Fig 2: those that use extra-low voltage DC input power (generally 5-36 V DC) and those that use low voltage AC input power (generally 90-277 V AC). The two temperature ratings, 80 °C and 40 °C, shown on the case of the driver in Fig 2 refer to the maximum case temperature and ambient temperature respectively that the driver can withstand without failing.

LED DRIVER

Model: RT- 12D1A1

110

PRI: 220-240 V~50 Hz 0.1A TC: 80°C TC: 40°C

Low voltage AC driver

1 The smart device may be incorporated in equipment such as, a smart GU10 lamp, which then communicates with a hub or controller connected to the local area network (LAN)

speciﬁes the amount of input voltage it needs to operate correctly. A constant voltage power supply receives standard line voltage (120-277 V AC) and switches this alternating current voltage to an extra-low direct current voltage. The driver will always maintain a constant voltage, no matter what kind of current load is placed on it. Most often, constant voltage drivers are implemented in under-cabinet lights and other LED ﬂexible strips, as shown in Fig 3, but are not limited to those categories. The LED strip can typically be trimmed to any length, usually within a 100 mm segment, as it is the constant voltage driver that maintains the correct voltage being applied to each LED module. It can also be extended using appropriate couplers or by soldering an additional piece onto the generic 5 m length that is generally the limit at which they are manufactured, although longer strip lengths are available generally when rated at 230 V. However, manufacturers of 12/24 V LED strip usually state in their product literature the maximum length their strip can be installed if loss of performance of the farthest LEDs is to be avoided under dimmed or colour changing conditions. Furthermore, using such types of LED strip, without the provision for heat dissipation and a suitable heat sink, further increases the risk of thermal runaway. The block diagram of Fig 4 shows that for some ELV bespoke LED installations, a number

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Fig 3 Typical arrangement for the control of an LED ﬂexible strip

The speciﬁcation of a typical constant current driver will show a range of voltages, but a constant current can be in the range 350 mA (0.35 A) to 2 000 mA (2 A).

Triple LED module RGB + Warm white + Cool white

202

WW G

WW G 101

R B

771 202 202

W +12V

W 202

101

+12V

Trimmed to length at this point

230 V AC *

Driver (mains to SELV)

12/24 V DC

Non - dimmable

Constant voltage

RGBCW dimmer module

R G B W WW

* Can be S/W - N Hub

Note – some manufacturers use C for the identiﬁcation of cool white of devices are required. Whilst it is possible to use components from diﬀerent manufacturers to achieve the desired outcome, it is important that all connected devices be compatible with each other to ensure proper operation. Where in doubt, refer to manufacturers’ installation instructions.

Constant current drivers Where a constant current driver is used, the LEDs will be connected in series. This is usually the option selected when installing small high-powered LEDs, such as those often used in plinths and driveways as marker lighting to cover a larger area, as shown in Fig 5. The main advantage of using a constant current driver is that the same current will ﬂow through each individual LED, so each LED will be at the same level of brightness. Furthermore, because the load current is constant, the risk of thermal runaway is reduced. This method of connection also allows for the installation of lighting to cover a larger area whilst maintaining a constant level of brightness. Fig 4 Block diagram showing the possible number and arrangement of drivers needed

Supply (230 V)

Driver 230 V SELV

Dimming/colour changing device SELV

LED Luminaire(s)/strip

Requirements of BS 7671 LED lighting schemes forming part of the fixed installation must comply with the applicable general rules of BS 7671 and any particular requirements of section 559 of that standard that are also applicable. It is therefore recommended that before installing LED lighting products such as drivers, it is confirmed that the product meets an appropriate standard (511.1). A typical standard associated with LED drivers is BS EN 61347-2-13: 2014 +A1: 2017 Lamp control gear Part 2 – 13: Particular requirements for d.c. or a.c. supplied electronic controlgear for LED modules. Where an LED lighting product is not covered by a British or Harmonised Standard, as with any product, it may still be installed provided it is confirmed that the product gives the same degree of safety as that afforded by compliance with BS 7671 (511.2). Such a departure from BS 7671 should be recorded on an appropriate Electrical Installation Certificate (133.5). As for other types of lighting installations intended to be connected to the fixed wiring, the general requirements of BS 7671 for luminaires and lighting installations given in Section 559 apply to LED lighting installations. It should be remembered that electrical equipment (including LED products) which is secured on or in the building fabric is by definition ‘fixed equipment’ and any wiring installed to a point in wiring for connection of such equipment should be considered part of the fixed wiring of the installation. Where electrical products are pre-wired and supplied with a cable and moulded plug for connection to an appropriate point in wiring such as a socket-outlet, the wiring is generally considered as not forming part of the fixed wiring, regardless of whether the equipment is secured to the building. Where LEDs and their associated drivers are to be installed in special locations – as referred to in Part 7 of BS 7671, such as those for locations containing a bath or shower (701), swimming pools or other basins (702), or outdoor lighting installations (714), the relevant requirements of the particular section must be met, as they supplement or modify the general requirements of BS 7671.

Summary Use of LED drivers for remote control of luminaires is relatively straightforward. However, it must be borne in mind that there are two

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Fig 5 Control options of small high-powered LEDs via a constant current dimmable driver

Apprentice Corner answers 1-10 V

Manual control

Rotary dimmer

Correct option is (b) Total resistance: Rt = R1 + R2 + R3 + R4 = 46 + 54 + 66 + 88 = 254 Ω If the new value is to be 280 Ω, the resistor to replace for the 80 Ω one is the 54 Ω.

+ + 1-9 W + 1-9 W -

1-10 V

230 V AC

L N

2. Correct option is (a) Current is constant in a series circuit. Series connected LEDs

Dimmable constant current LED driver

3. Correct option is (d) The resistance of the heater element is a constant. Therefore: R = U1 and R = U2 ∴ U1 = U2 so I1 I2 I2 I1

Remote control L N

1-10 V

U2 = U1 × I2 = 120 × 4 = 80 V 6 I1

+ -

1-10 V Inline dimmer

A smaller current will need a reduced voltage.

4. Correct option is (a) + + 1-9 W + 1-9 W -

The supply voltage is constant. Therefore: U = I1 × R1 and U = I2 × R2 ∴ I1 × R1 =

1-10 V

230 V AC Hub

L N

Dimmable constant current LED driver

I2 × R2 so I2 = I1 × R1 = 4 × 500 = 3.64 A 550 R2 Series connected LEDs

If the resistance increases, the current will reduce.

Smartphone Remote

5. Correct option is (b) The power available at the shower:

types of LED driver – constant current and constant voltage – and each one has its own particular application. Constant voltage drivers are typically used for strip lighting whereby as the length of strip is adjusted to meet requirements, the supply voltage will remain the same. Constant current drivers are considered to be the preferred driver to use for high powered LEDs whereby the LED will only be drawing the current it needs. This means that the light output should remain constant over ﬂuctuations in supply voltage. This will ultimately lead to thermal stability. BS 7671 makes no distinction between a typical installation and a bespoke LED installation. All areas of the LED lighting installation and its associated products, such as drivers, shall comply with any relevant requirements detailed within that standard.

U3 = U ×

R3 = 253 × R1 + R2 + R3

7.2 = 247.49 V 0.1232 + 0.037 + 7.2

(

Power available: Pout = PShower 247.49 240

(

8×

)

UR3 UShower

)

= 8.5 kW

Whilst a shower is a type of load that will not produce an overload current due to having a fixed heater resistance, that is not to say that the load current is fixed. The current flow is dependent upon the supply voltage.

6. Correct option is (c) Circuit current: I = P = 96 = 4 A Us 24 R2 = U2 = 8 = 2 Ω I 4

R3 = P2 = 162 = 1 Ω and I 4

2 2 Rt = U = 24 = 6 Ω P 96

R1 = Rt –(R2 + R3) = 6 –(2 + 1) = 3 Ω

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The ‘good old days’ Much is spoken about the current standards within the electrical contracting industry. There is regular reference to the ‘good old days’ when all those working within the industry were ‘competent’ and all work was carried out to the highest of standards.

Certiﬁcation when inspecting and testing

Newsletter 25 March 1971 ‘Once again it becomes necessary to remind Approved Contractors that it is a requirement of the Regulations that Completion and Inspection Certificates must be provided on any job, whether large or small, upon completion of the work of the contractor. Regulation E.111 lays down quite specifically that a Completion Certificate must be provided “following the inspection and testing required…for a completed installation, or major alteration to an existing installation…”.’ 1 Regulations for the electrical equipment of buildings – 14th Edition

14th Edition of the Wiring Regulations

Ever since the NICEIC has been in existence, there have been design, installation, and inspection and testing concerns that have needed highlighting. This is another article in an occasional series that looks at such problems highlighted from a previous era in the electrical contracting industry, and seeks to answer them in line with the

Front covers of the Completion and Inspection Certiﬁcates

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current requirements of BS 7671. From the earliest days of the wiring regulations it has been recognised that testing is an essential part of confirming that an electrical installation is safe for use, whether for initial or ongoing use. To provide a level of assurance that suitable inspection and testing has taken place, it has been a requirement for many years that some form of record is made and provided to the person ordering the work. The 14th Edition contained two types of certificate; the ‘Completion Certificate’ to be used for new or altered electrical installations, and the ‘Inspection Certificate’ for periodic inspection and testing. This same issue was highlighted again in Newsletter 129 (March 1999) with different certificates. However, the reminder is still necessary in 2020.

Requirements of BS 7671 New installations Section 644 details the requirements for certification of a new installation or an addition or alteration to an existing installation. Note the following: • The certificate should be based on the model given in Appendix 6 of BS 7671. • Defects and omissions must be corrected before the Certificate is issued. • For an addition or alteration to an

existing installation, any defect or omission that will affect the safety of the new work must be corrected prior to the Certificate being issued. • The person responsible for the alteration or addition or a person authorised to act on their behalf should record any defects observed. • The Certificate is to include details of the work as well as a Schedule of Inspection and a Schedule of Test Results. • The person(s) responsible for design, construction and verification of the installation must sign, as necessary to take responsibility for their part in the development of the installation. • The Electrical Installation Certificate (or Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate) must be signed. Periodic inspection and testing Periodic inspection and testing is undertaken to determine whether (or not) an electrical installation is safe for continued use. Section 653 details the requirements of BS 7671 for recording the outcome of a periodic inspection and testing. These requirements include, amongst other things: • To be based on the model found in Appendix 6 of BS 7671. • To include details of the parts of the installation that have been inspected and tested, any limitations, any

damage, deterioration, defects or dangerous occurrences and any noncompliances with the requirements of the current version of BS 7671. • The Report should also contain a Schedule of Inspection and a Schedule of Test Results. • A recommendation of when the installation should be inspected and tested should be made. • It must be signed.

Summary It is important the contractors generate an appropriate certificate for the work that they carry out. The certificate/ report must be relevant and accurately reflect the conditions of the installation. Furthermore, the certificate/report must be signed by the person(s) responsible for the various parts of the installation. Failure to sign does not negate the responsibility of the installer for the safety of the installation – it merely confirms that a part of the work does not comply with BS 7671. Guidance on completing an Electrical Installation Certificate may be found in the Inspection, Testing and Certification book published by Certsure LLP. Guidance on completing an Electrical Installation Condition Report for a domestic installation may be found in the Domestic Periodic Inspection, Testing and Reporting book.

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P ROD UC T FO C U S

Snickers

C.K

Snickers’ new stretch work shorts are designed to deliver superior comfort and freedom of movement for a ﬂexible working environment. These new AllroundWork and FLEXIWork shorts are great for working in the warmer months. They come in a body-mapping design and a range of new colours, including hi-vis options. Made from a self-ventilating stretch fabric with Cordura reinforcements for mobility and durability, they’re specially designed for the fast-paced professional. A must for everyone who wants the ultimate in comfort this summer.

Hot forged from a carbon steel alloy and hardened for strength and durability, C.K’s new premium quality Japanese 10” pry bar (T4312) features a 46mm-wide tip for precise removal of mouldings, skirting boards and cavity wall nails, with minimal damage. It is also perfect for prising apart ﬂoorboards and other materials. Precision engineered for leverage, it combines optimum performance and durability with solid construction. Ideal for a multitude of tasks, whether electrical, building renovations, DIY work or industrial, the C.K Japanese pry bar is set to become an essential addition to any professional toolkit.

www.snickersworkwear.co.uk / email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk / 01484 854788

www.carlkammerling.com

Guardian Electrical

Schneider Electric

Inspection and testing is often ad hoc. Testing is done by one supplier, another completes remedial works, and records are rarely consolidated by the client’s dutyholder. The dutyholder changes his job, and the end result is a lack of traceability, accountability, or awareness that there could be an EaWR 1989 breach. Guardian saw this as an opportunity. We developed TraQit, our standard medium of real-time interactive website reporting, to ensure dutyholders are in control of reports and drawings at all times. Also available are a dutyholder handbook and suite of practical guidance notes.

The Easy UPS from Schneider Electric is an easy-to-install, easyto-use and easy-toservice battery backup uninterruptable power supply (UPS), providing ideal power protection for small and medium businesses. www.se.com/uk/en/work/ products/product-launch/ easy-ups

www.guardianelectrical.co.uk

Ellis

SWA

Ellis Patents has developed an online calculator that will provide users with completely accurate specification information for any project in a matter of seconds. The cable cleat calculator provides correctly specified cleat spacings with respect to short circuit conditions, and recommends the ideal products for that specific project. This is achieved through a preprogrammed calculation that takes cable formation, cable size, short-circuit current and the environment of the installation into consideration.

Quicker, safer and easier to use than BW and CW glands, SWA’s STORM cable gland range promises a revolution in terminating armoured, non-armoured, and SY and CY braided cables. The UV-stabilised STORM glands offer improved ingress protection in thread sizes from 20mm-63mm, and can be used from -20°C to +80°C. They give off no toxic gases in a fire, are inexpensive, and are suitable for both armoured, non-armoured and SY and CY braided cable. The range is available in two types, standard (with locknut and earth tag) and Tauras (with EarthingNut and crimp lugs).

www.ellispatents.co.uk / 01944 785395

www.swaonline.co.uk

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O F F T HE TO O L S

Lights, projector, action!

‘Initially the projector was a dustsheet wrapped around some roofer’s timber’

Any plans to develop it further? I’m hoping to put an enclosure in outside with an amp and surround-sound speakers, which could stay outside. I’m trying to persuade my wife to let me put in a bar too!

Tell me about the business…

Ian Sproat, founder of north-east ﬁrm Eco Home Electrics, has put his spare time in lockdown to good use by kitting out his garden with an outdoor cinema experience

I believe you’ve been busy during lockdown! Can you tell us what you’ve been up to?

I set it up in 2007 with the idea of creating an eco-business and it absolutely ﬂew with the feed-in tariﬀs. We did that until about 2015 but it slowed from 2012, and now all we do with solar is the maintenance side. Most of the work we do now is LED lighting, whether commercial or industrial. We’ve done a few electric central heating systems too, and I’m quite famous on Instagram for my mains boards! I’ve just got a knack for making them look neat.

What did you need to do to set it up? I used an old 110V site light and took the head oﬀ it and made a mounting platform for the projector. I rigged it up through a waterproof connection box. Initially the projector was a dustsheet wrapped around some roofer’s timber (pictured above) and then I bought a 100-inch proper screen. It takes two and a half minutes to set up.

What reaction have you had from the neighbours?

How has lockdown affected the business? We’re about 80 per cent domestic so we didn’t work for about six weeks, other than emergency callouts. The first few weeks were hard but then I started to enjoy the time off because I’ve been flat out for years. I’ve been doing DIY around the house, too; we have a hot tub and sauna, so I’ve been working on that.

Have you any other electrical projects for your own house?

I rigged up a cinema in the back garden! We did cinema nights with the neighbours, because obviously we couldn’t go anywhere. We have a low fence and we put the projector in between the two fences so we could all see the ﬁlm.

It’s been great. Their kids are 18 and 16, and ours are 16, 13 and nine. We’ve put up a concession stand with popcorn, sweets and crisps so they can choose what they want.

Did you need your electrical knowledge?

We have solar panels on the house and that feeds into the LED lighting in the garden. We’re also in the process of switching to a battery-storage system so we can get the most from it during the night.

How many have been involved?

Yes, I put an outside socket in right where I needed it for the projector screen, and I’ve also got a Bluetooth speaker hard-wired from the projector as well for the sound.

What do you get up to in your spare time? Email offthetools@redactive.co.uk

There are ﬁve from my family and four from the neighbours, each in our own gardens.

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CURRENT AFFAIRS

#SPARKSLIFE

All in the lion of work Unfortunately, contractors are all too familiar with the battle to get customers to part with their cash, but spare a thought for Mohammed Raﬁque, who found himself on the receiving end of a particularly nasty attempt to avoid coughing up. Mohammed had undertaken work at a religious building in Pakistan when the customer unleashed a pet lion, which attacked him, causing wounds to his arms and face. He says the customer and three other men failed to help him, and he was only set free when passers-by heard his cries for help.

We’ve been asking you to send in pictures of the jobs you are working on via social media – and you haven’t disappointed. Keep sending them in via Twitter @oﬃcialNICEIC or @oﬃcialELECSA, or via Instagram using the hashtag #sparkslife. This issue’s prize for the best shot, a £25 voucher, goes to adlinsmartelectrical

Mohammed did not report the incident to police for a month, and only did so when another promise to pay was not kept. The customer was eventually charged with attempted murder.

Sun’s o out, suds out – @adlinsmartelectrical @adlin taking the time to keep on top of his van

DANGEROUS S BUSINESS

EMAIL EXPLOSIONS After months of being unable to get into the office, we’ve all become a lot more reliant on corresponding over email rather than face to face. Now, research by zety.com has revealed the things we love to hate about email. The most irritating trait is people using kisses in a work email, cited by 82 per cent, followed by having a blank subject line (75 per cent). Three-quarters of people find over-use of capital letters annoying, with the same proportion getting worked up over poor spelling and a lack of proofreading, while 69 per cent find unnecessary use of the ‘urgent’ symbol in email upsetting. And that’s aside from the actual content of the email…

A frustrated writer ter who has spent his is career working in n the construction sector ctor has written a novel, with an electrician as its main character. Death of a Painter sees jobbing electrician Mark Poynter discover a colleague bludgeoned to death, dropping him into a world where he fears he was the intended victim and the police make him their prime suspect. “I’ve been in and around the building industry for almost 30 years now, and I’ve met all sorts of characters,” says author Matthew Ross. “I’ve tried to capture the dark gallows humour and irreverence we all know from site. By making Mark an electrician I knew I was opening up the possibility for a wide range of future stories.” The comic crime book was published in April by Red Dog Press and has already had positive reviews, with a followup novel due early next year.

Congratulations to Dave at @dme_ services on the birth of his next little apprentice, Noah

What a day to be working! Thanks to @gilles_electrical for this great shot, although we’re not sure wearing black was a smart choice in that heat!

Getting prepped for what looks like another big job for @pburkandsons

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

Tag us at...

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Loop test with conﬁdence

The all-in-one installation tester with conﬁdence built-in

MFT1741 With the newest, patented pending algorithm for earth loop impedance testing, Megger introduce the MFT1741. Fast, repeatable 3-wire no–trip loop test results on normal circuits 3-wire loop test results from noisy circuits that are repeatable and in which you can have conﬁdence. Built–in conﬁdence meter that indicates the reliance you can place on your loop measurement Results unaffected by RCD or RCBO impedance

These new features combined with those of the well liked MFT1701 series of toughness, ease-of–use and reliability make the MFT1741 a very attractive package.

To ﬁnd out more scan the QR code or call 01304 502 102 Megger Ltd, Archcliffe Road, Dover, CT17 9EN, T. 01304 502101

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Connect and convert Connect with new customers and convert them into satisﬁed ones

Join Which? Trusted Traders Call 0117 456 6036 quoting TTNICEIC trustedtraders.which.co.uk/niceic

NICEIC and ELECSA members get 50% off for the ﬁrst 6 months*

*A Which? Trusted Traders endorsement starts at £60 per month including VAT. Initial assessment usually costs £200 + VAT. Businesses must have been trading for 6 months or more. Full terms and conditions at trustedtraders.which.co.uk/niceic. Other trade associations are welcome to ask us about applicable discounts.

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10/03/2020 18:00 16:39 13/07/2020