Logic4training warns against online training shortcuts

With more young people choosing a career in the trades over university, and as the UK approaches results day for school and college leavers, training provider Logic4training urges aspiring building services engineers to prioritise quality over speed when choosing a path into the sector. New research carried out by said training provider reveals growing demand for online training, with yearly search volume rising from 42,860 in 2022 to 61,550 in 2024, an increase of 44% in just two years. However, a survey of tradespeople reveals significant challenges associated with e-learning. A lack of hands-on experience is cited as the biggest obstacle by 54% of respondents, followed by cost concerns (46%) and limited job placement opportunities (42%). Mark Krull from Logic4training says that while online training may appear convenient, it often comes at the cost of quality and credibility: "Far too many aspiring tradespeople are investing their money into courses that promise the earth but end in disappointment. Young people exploring alternatives to university may be attracted by the lure of remote learning and a quick qualification. However, when a course starts front-loaded with online training and little or no tutor support, the chances of success are pretty low." E-learning is often sold as a quick option - and speed clearly is an important factor, reflected by a 58% increase in yearly searches for ‘fast track' courses since 2022. While many of these courses are legitimate - and play an essential role in providing flexible routes into the trades - candidates must ensure that they will achieve a valid qualification at the end and that hands-on training is prioritised, avoiding those that rely too heavily on online modules. Mark continues, "Apprenticeships are a tried and tested way into the sector, allowing apprentices to ‘earn while they learn' and avoid the debt associated with university - [which], I expect, [is] one of the key reasons more people are turning their backs on this education route. For college leavers and anyone looking for a quicker way to switch careers, quality apprenticeship alternatives do exist, but they must include rigorous practical components, industry-recognised qualifications, and realistic timelines for skill development." Logic4training advocates for comprehensive, in-person training supplemented by digital resources, rather than being replaced by them. Its ClubLogic platform, the provider claims, "exemplifies this balanced approach," serving as an online revision tool that supports in-centre learning. Key statistics: · 9 out of 10 ClubLogic users report it helped them prepare for their course. · 94% of candidates on related courses use the platform. · Candidates receive both practical skills development and on-demand revision support. Quality training provider checklist: · Visit training centres in person and meet teachers before committing to a course. · Check industry connections and relationships with contractors and local companies. · Verify qualifications are certified by reputable awarding bodies, like LCL Awards. · Look for transparent outcomes with clear information and career progression. For more from Logic4training, click here.

Carhartt introduces Force Series to help tackle the heat

American workwear company Carhartt is introducing its Force Series range, which it says has been designed for tradespeople "when the temperature climbs and there’s no air-con in sight." Intended to work where airflow is limited and movement is constant, the company claims its clothing range "fights sweat, dries fast, and keeps you comfortable from sunup to sundown." The Force Series T-shirt has been updated with improved zoned mesh panels, better stretch, and redesigned seams which shouldn't irritate or distract. The Men’s Relaxed Fit Midweight Short-Sleeve Pocket T-Shirt is made from flex jersey with mesh side panels for extra ventilation. FastDry sweat-wicking tech, anti-microbial properties, and raglan sleeves - which have extra under-arm width for added movement - make it appropriate for physical work in direct sunlight. For women, the Relaxed Fit Midweight Pocket T-Shirt intends to deliver all the same features, with mesh sleeves and back panels to boost airflow. The women’s Utility Leggings are one of Carhartt’s bestsellers for women. They are made with Carhartt Force Series Ponte fabric, offering sweat-wicking, odour-fighting elements alongside abrasion-resistant pockets and stretch. For men, the Relaxed Straight Force Series Ripstop Cargo Pants bring together stretch ripstop fabric, reinforced pockets, and 'Rugged Flex technology.' The Force Series range also covers caps, socks, work boots, shorts, and jumpers. For more from Carhartt, click here.

NVC Lighting supports NHS Trust with energy-saving drive

An NHS Trust delivering services to thousands of patients across Herefordshire and Worcestershire has been supported by lighting manufacturer NVC Lighting in its continued drive towards running a more energy-efficient estate. Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust provides a range of mental health, community, and learning disability services across the region, including community hospitals, minor injury units, sexual health services, and specialist dental services. Over recent years, the Trust has been actively working on improving energy efficiency across its facilities, backed by financial support from the NHS Energy Efficiency Fund (EEF), which started in 2018 and is now in its third phase. This included being awarded £90,000 from the NHS EEF to upgrade lighting across the whole Trust, in line with the NHS’s goal of becoming net zero by 2040. After carrying out a rigorous vendor screening process, the Trust contracted Adam Masters, Profit Centre Manager at electrical wholesalers Edmundson Electrical, to execute the lighting works. Adam in turn reached out to Aaron Chandi, Business Development Manager at NVC Lighting, to support with product selection and delivery. Rehan Yunus, Environmental Officer at the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health & Care NHS Trust, says, “It’s vitally important for providers across the NHS to find ways to become more energy-efficient. This is in line with the overall aim of the NHS to become net zero by 2040. It’s equally important that we do this in a way that is cost-effective and supports local businesses. We strongly believe that by using more energy-efficient lighting, such as LED lights [and] automatic timer lighting, we can make a significant difference in reducing our overall energy consumption. “In line with our Green Plan, we are on track for becoming net zero by 2040 and this change is a major step towards a greener and more sustainable NHS. A greener NHS will not only benefit the planet, but also prove beneficial for patients by giving them better quality air to breathe in and more green spaces to relax.” The project focused on seven older buildings from the Trust’s estate, offering a range of services across mental health, nursing, child development, and more. The plan was to move from older light fittings in need of replacement to more modern, energy-efficient lighting from NVC Lighting, provided by Edmundson Electrical. Rehan continues, “We had issues with the throw of light and temperature changes caused by overhead lighting. These issues made the existing lighting less suitable for our staff and visitors. The new lighting also provided a neutral white glow to the spaces, making them appear calmer. “We also wanted to have a greater degree of precision over how our lighting is used, so newer products which could be controlled with additional switches and dimmable controls were a priority for us. As well as granting us greater control and adaptability, this also provides us with energy saving and product usage benefits.” Sites including Tenbury Community Hospital, Warndon Child Development Centre, and mental health service buildings (The Knoll and Rose Cottage) all presented unique challenges when it came to selecting the right lighting solutions. Edmunson Electricals’ Adam Masters comments, “It was important that we got this right first time and, because it was a unique set of challenges across multiple different sites, we wanted to do as much groundwork as possible to make sure that there were no unexpected surprises. “We visited all seven sites, spoke with staff, and assessed each building – so it was a mixture of anecdotal, on the ground insight, as well as analysis based on our experience on which products would be suited to the environment.” Products selected include YALE PRO, which offers UGR<19 low glare and is designed for use in corridors and high footfall areas, as well as the IP65- and IK10-rated COLUMBUS, PORTLAND bulkheads, WASHINGTON recessed downlights, and TEXAS battens. Aaron Chandi, Business Development Manager at NVC Lighting, reflects, “We were delighted to be able to support this project and understood what was required of us. The quality of our products and our warranty offering meant we were ideally placed to provide the perfect solutions for the Trust. “We pride ourselves on building strong relationships based on trust, so we were ready to do what was needed to ensure the right products were in the right place at the right time. Communication was key - and I even got out [on] site to manage a delivery, [showing] support to Adam and the team at Edmunson. It was a real team effort. “We’re confident that staff across the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health & Care NHS Trust will feel the benefit of NVC Lighting products in their daily activities, while Trust leadership will soon see the energy- and cost-savings associated with our products.” For more from NVC Lighting, click here.

Expert explains the newly proposed tool theft legislation

Tool theft is a plight on tradespeople throughout the UK, with four in 10 having experienced the crime. However, significant changes could be on the horizon with the second reading of the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill set to take place on 4 July 2025. A common issue raised is the sentencing of the thieves that are responsible, with many in the construction sector feeling, due to the significant impact tool theft has on tradespeople's livelihoods, that the punishment isn’t severe enough for the crime. However, the Bill looks to impose harsher penalties for the theft of tools used in trades. Rob Rees, Divisional Director at trades insurance provider Markel Direct, explains the Bill and outlines how tradespeople can proactively prevent their tools being stolen: What does the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill aim to do? The purpose of this Bill is to amend current sentencing guidelines to impose harsher penalties for the theft of tools used in trades. Currently, tool theft is categorised as ‘harm category 3’ because most instances of theft are of a value under £10,000. The Bill proposes that tool theft should be reclassified as causing ‘significant additional harm’ to the victim of the theft, which would enable magistrates to increase the severity of the offence to ‘harm category 2’ when it comes to the sentencing – even if the value of the theft is under £10,000. Additionally, the Bill is looking to standardise the calculation of financial loss to include not only the physical cost of the tool itself, but the additional costs that often come with tool theft such as: · The cost of repairs to any vehicle from which the tools were stolen – such as fixing damage to a van’s locks. · Loss of earnings resulting from the theft – such as being unable to work. · The cost of any interruption of business resulting from the theft – such as being unable to fulfil a contract. What is the current status of the Bill? The second reading takes place on 4 July 2025 and will be the first opportunity for MPs to debate the main principles of the Bill. Amanda Martin, MP for Portsmouth North and the MP responsible for the bill, will open the second reading debate. When the debate concludes, the Commons decides whether a Bill should be progressed to the next stage by voting. For more details on the Bill and its progress, you can visit the UK Parliament's official page. How can tradespeople prevent their tools from being stolen? While the Bill is a positive step towards deterring tool theft, the process for it to become law will take time and is several months away (should the Bill proceed). However, tool theft is often conducted by opportunists, so by taking measures to secure their tools, tradespeople can put off potential thieves. Recommendations include: 1. Enhanced security measures on vehicles Installing alarms or enhanced van locks (e.g. double deadlocks, slam locks, or lock protection plates) can help to deter thieves. Consider installing dashcams or interior cameras in the van itself and ensuring that the area the van is parked in is well-lit and secured, where possible. 2. Remove tools from vehicles overnight 41% of tool theft occurs from vans that are parked at home – yet only 2% of tool theft occurs inside the home itself. Whilst it may seem like an inconvenience, parked vans are a target for tool thieves and taking your tools out of your vehicle at the end of the day will significantly reduce the risk of them being stolen. 3. Invest in video security if you park at home Installing video doorbells and CCTV at home not only acts as a visible deterrent to would-be thieves, but can also act as evidence should the worst happen. With the introduction of battery-powered devices in recent years, it is a relatively low-cost and straightforward way to put off tool thieves. 4. Tool marking, registration, and tracking Taking a proactive approach that makes tools unattractive to criminals can include: · Property marking — Use UV pens, engraving tools, or forensic marking products (e.g. ImmobiMark, SmartWater, or SelectaDNA) to mark tools with identifying information. · Install trackers — For larger, more expensive equipment you could consider installing discreet trackers, and for valuable hand tools, Bluetooth or RFID tags linked to a smartphone app could come in useful. · Register your tools — Register tools with Immobilise, which is a free, online registration service that allows the public to record ownership details of their valued possessions. This means that theft alerts are immediately visible on the police's system and if your registered items are recovered by police, they can return them with ease. 5. Arrange tools insurance By arranging an appropriate level of tools insurance, you can cover the cost of replacing your equipment if it is stolen. It’s worth checking that your policy can provide cover on a 24-hour basis should you need it, and choosing an insurer with a reputable claims team that settle claims quickly to minimise disruption to your business. The Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill would be a positive step for the trades and construction sector, with harsher penalties acting as a potential deterrent for thieves. However, it’s never been more important for tradespeople to protect their tools through proactive measures to prevent theft. For more from Markel Direct, click here.

CEF, Milwaukee support WellChild following Maddie’s Garden

City Electrical Factors (CEF), a UK supplier of electrical products, together with Milwaukee Tools, has continued its commitment to supporting WellChild’s work through ongoing initiatives inspired by recent successful projects. Notably, after the completion of Maddie’s Garden, a transformative outdoor space created by CEF’s senior team volunteers, Milwaukee supplied Packout Storage Systems FOC to further aid WellChild’s Helping Hands programme. Over two days, members of CEF’s senior team volunteered their time to give Maddie’s Garden a complete makeover, designing and building a safe, accessible, and stimulating outdoor environment for Maddie, who lives with Nedmas - a rare neurodevelopmental chromosome disorder that affects her mobility and sensory experience. The project was designed to give her the freedom to fully enjoy her garden, featuring an interactive sensory wall that engages her senses and promotes both joy and independence. Building on this success, Milwaukee’s donation of packout storage solutions seeks to enable WellChild to manage multiple projects simultaneously, expanding the reach and efficiency of their Helping Hands programme. The donated tools and storage should play a role in supporting ongoing and future initiatives, helping more children and families. Andrew Moseley, Commercial Director at CEF, comments, “The Maddie’s Garden project was a heartfelt effort by our team, and it’s inspiring to see how our support can make a lasting difference. Following that, Milwaukee’s generous donation of storage solutions continues the momentum, allowing WellChild to extend their impact and reach more children in need.” Kieran Cullen, Helping Hands Programme Manager at WellChild, adds, “Thanks to CEF’s volunteers and Milwaukee’s support, we are better equipped to carry out multiple projects effectively. These resources will help us deliver more meaningful support, enabling children like Maddie to have better access to safe, engaging outdoor spaces and resources.” For more from CEF, click here.

Thorn illuminates Granton Gasholder Park

A landmark of Edinburgh's northern skyline since 1901, the Granton Gasholder has been reimagined as a public space thanks to a £20 million restoration and regeneration project. Now at the heart of Granton Gasholder Park, this 50-metre-tall, listed structure has been transformed from an industrial relic into a community focal point - complete with dynamic lighting designed and delivered by Thorn Lighting, a manufacturer and supplier of both outdoor and indoor luminaires and integrated controls. Working closely with landscape architects Optimised Environments (OPEN) and consultancy Tetra Tech, Thorn was tasked with creating a lighting scheme that would enhance the visual impact of the restored gasholder, while respecting its historic character and listed status. The result is a design that, according to the company, celebrates the structure's unique industrial beauty, provides safe and welcoming navigation through the park, and offers programmable flexibility to support community events and public art. Granton Gasholder Park forms part of the wider £1.3 billion regeneration of the Granton Waterfront area. Once a key part of Edinburgh's gas infrastructure, the gasholder sat unused for decades. The site has been transformed into a space for play, relaxation, and reflection following extensive refurbishment - including the careful preservation of 100,000 rivets and 26 towering columns. Visitors can explore walking trails, three play areas, and a central sculpture of a breaching humpback whale, a nod to nearby Firth of Forth wildlife. Lighting has helped to make the space welcoming after dark. The brief required complete control over colour and timing, a low-profile installation respectful of the structure's heritage, and glare-free, visually comfortable illumination for all users. Eroa inground luminaires were chosen to illuminate the gasholder's Corten lettering that says "GASHOLDER1." They have a 3000K output and are available in multiple lengths, able to provide a wash of light capable of reaching heights beyond 12 metres. There is also the option for internal anti-glare louvres and glare-control films. Contrast RGBW floodlights were mounted on the gasholder itself and are controlled via a DMX system. Contrast units, the company claims, allow precise highlighting of structural details while enabling a multitude of colour-changing scenes for events and seasonal displays. Concealing cables and achieving integration with the structure required careful coordination. Aerie column luminaires were also installed along key pathways. Tetra Tech's Chris Dunbar, Senior Project Manager for the scheme, comments, "Working with the Thorn team has been fantastic. We were well looked after from start to finish - not just from Derick Ramsay, but also by the technical team behind the scenes and David Harris who supported with the commissioning. They all adapted to some tricky timelines and changes in the programme and still delivered an exceptional result. "I can say, not just from myself but from the immediate community and stakeholders, it's been exceptionally well received. Local feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The vibrant illumination has given one of Edinburgh's most recognisable landmarks a whole new lease of life." The park has reportedly become a popular space for residents and visitors, with the illuminated gasholder now acting as a beacon after dark and a backdrop for a growing calendar of community activities. For more from Thorn, click here.

C.K Tools announces relaunch of Redline VDE pliers and cutters

C.K Tools, a manufacturer of professional hand tools, has unveiled the relaunch of its best-selling range of pliers and cutters, Redline VDE, featuring a brand-new handle design meant for improved comfort and usability. Following research into ergonomics, comfort, and safety - alongside feedback from users - the new-look pliers and cutters range has been re-developed with German manufacturing to deliver VDE-compliant tools. The company says these aim to offer quality, precision, and comfort – now with an additional tool tether for added safety when working at height. Work-at-height safety is becoming more of a focus due to corporate responsibility and duty of care, but also because of lost time and injury. There is now a much more comprehensive understanding of the dangers of working at height. Initially this focused on the worker themselves being safe at height, but now we are seeing a realisation that tools dropped from above can cause serious injury - or worse - with resulting authorities getting involved in investigations, increased insurance costs, and, of course, downtime. This is apart from the potentially devastating results of such incidents. In 2023/24, there were 50 deaths in the UK and almost 5,000 non-fatal injuries from working at height, with dropped tools contributing to these numbers. As a supplier, C.K Tools says it was logical to develop a range that not only provided VDE approved safety but also had working at height solutions integrated into it. The new product line is launching nationwide today (1 July 2025) and features 19 SKUs, including side cutters, cable cutters, snipe nose pliers, combination pliers, and the Combicutter – available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different user preferences. Brinley Buckley-Roberts, Head of Marketing at C.K Tools, comments, “We’re thrilled to bring this relaunched range to market, after years of expert research and development. We’ve remastered our best-selling range to ensure long-life performance, complete with induction hardened jaws, optimised geometry, and a two-component handle with improved ergonomics. “The addition of a tool tether point ups-the-ante when it comes to safety and convenience - crucial factors for us when launching products to market. The relaunch of the Redline VDR has also given us the opportunity to push harder into industrial and renewables sectors, where we’ve seen a real demand for this type of feature.” For more from C.K Tools, click here.

SELECT secures 10 new signatures for 'Wall of Support'

Ten more politicians have backed the campaign for regulation of the electrotechnical industry being spearheaded by Scotland’s largest construction trade association, SELECT. MP Harriet Cross and former party leader Jackson Carlaw are among the Scottish Conservatives who have added their names to the body’s growing 'Wall of Support' to demonstrate their backing for protection of title for the profession of electrician. Other Tory MSPs who signed up at the recent party conference at Murrayfield Stadium were: • Miles Briggs • Finlay Carson • Sharon Dowey • Tim Eagle • Roz McCall • Liz Smith • Alexander Stewart • Sue Webber In signing, they endorsed the statement: “I agree that poor quality electrical work carries huge risks to people’s homes, business, and lives. It is vitally important that consumers are helped to make informed choices whenever they employ an electrician. That’s why I am backing SELECT’s campaign to regulate electricians by introducing protection of title for the profession of electrician.” SELECT Skills & Client Relations Manager Yvonne Wilson secured the signatures after attending the conference on 13 and 14 June with SELECT President Mike Stark and Past President John Noble. She says, “We are delighted to see continuing cross-party support for our campaign and would like to thank all the MSPs, MPs, and party officials who took time to speak with us at the conference and hear the industry’s concerns first-hand. “As SELECT continues to celebrate its 125th anniversary at the forefront of the electrotechnical sector in Scotland, these valuable endorsements highlight our mission to protect public safety and uphold the very highest standards at all times. “Each new name on the Wall of Support is another step towards a safer society and more professional electrotechnical industry.” The conference also saw SELECT share its recently-launched manifesto for the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary election, which outlines a three-point plan for "a safer society, stronger industry, and successful transition to net zero." Yvonne continues, “It was a productive and positive weekend, during which we put forward the main points in our manifesto with a wide range of MSPs and senior party figures. “In addition, politicians were given a frontline perspective on the many issues facing the modern contractor by Mike and John, who provided the perfect demonstration of why SELECT and its members are the voice of the Scottish electrotechnical industry.” The Tory MSPs’ support is the latest boost for the association’s long-running campaign for regulation of the industry, which is now backed by politicians, professional bodies, housebuilders, surveyors, and trade unions across Scotland. In addition to more than 40 MSPs and MPs from all five major parties, bricks of support have been laid by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the Scottish Association of Landlords, the Scottish Building Federation, and the Energy Saving Trust. For more from SELECT, click here.

F.E.S. (EX) celebrates 20 years in business

Specialist industrial services provider F.E.S. (EX) is celebrating 20 years in business as it continues to build its team. The hazardous area consultancy and electrical contractor was launched by Geoff Fulcher in 2005, with the founder now sitting as chair of a 50-strong firm turning over more than £5 million. Managing Director James Ward, Commercial Director Elle Fulcher-Fenty, and Finance Director Martin Jackson make up the senior leadership team. The company is now eyeing future industrial markets as it builds on its widening offering across installation, engineering, inspection, and process safety disciplines. “I never envisaged it would become this,” says Geoff. “I could perhaps see six or seven of us being the team, but when Martin (Jackson) came on board there was a realisation of what could be achieved, and we grew from there. “We pride ourselves on the personal service, and when it comes to business, we thrive when that approach is taken by both sides. “One of the biggest highlights for me has been watching how people have come into the company, and really grown. I’ve seen it with ‘newbies,’ experienced hires, and with family members [Elle is his daughter] - and for all of them to come in and care for the company in the same way as I do, has been tremendous. I say a big thank you to them for that.” F.E.S. (EX) was launched after a period working in contracting management and consultancy, having initially served as an apprentice marine electrician. Launched from a tiny, windowless office in Cleethorpes Business Centre, it grew in the managed workspace before branching out to its own substantial unit on the Wilton Road Industrial Estate. Roxby Training Services was acquired a decade ago, including Humber and Teesside bases, with F.E.S. (EX) then launching another office in Saltend, near Hull, to serve the North Humber Bank, then adding a North East hub too. Third party audit support has emerged as a key revenue stream for the company, supporting leaner client teams to deliver at vital of times to meet regulations or address issues. Elle said there was "immense pride" in the client base with heavy industrial/manufacturing, energy, water, and defence all key sectors. A recent win for the company has been with the world’s largest wind turbine monopile factory on the Tees, with the business completing a hazardous area installation for spray booths. Fuel storage distribution, anaerobic digestion, and fibre production are all ongoing. Additionally, while the business specialises in process industry settings, it has also worked in Formula One and the cruise ship industry. “Looking to the future, the likes of carbon capture and hydrogen are going to be increasingly important, and we have the technical capability to deliver on that too,” comments Elle. James adds, “We’ve seen industry come back stronger from Covid, and we’re seeking to make continuous improvements, ensuring we have the right procedures in place so we can confidently keep growing and looking forward.”

Marshall-Tufflex awarded for ongoing commitment to sustainability

Marshall-Tufflex, a UK manufacturer of cable management products, has had its ongoing commitment to sustainable practices recognised by two industry awards: the ‘Sustainable Stand’ award at CEF Live and the 1066 Business Awards' ‘Sustainability Champion’ Award 2025. Marshall-Tufflex says it has taken many steps to minimise its environmental impact. This includes using recycled PVC-U from post-industrial windows in its production and ensuring its cardboard packaging is made from 100% recycled and recyclable materials. The company is also working towards becoming net zero and has taken steps to reduce carbon emissions, so far achieving an 11% carbon footprint reduction in year two followed by a 6.6% reduction in year three. The sustainability award presented to Marshall-Tufflex at CEF Live for its stand (built by Focal Exhibitions) saw the company achieve full points in ten out of the thirteen categories. The company demonstrated eco practices including using a reusable stand, sustainable flooring, FSC-certified timber, low-energy lighting, and avoiding single-use plastics. They also earned top marks for being paper-free and having a rated EcoVadis sustainability certification. The 1066 Business Awards’ ‘Sustainability Champion’ award recognises organisations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to sustainability efforts. The award aims to honour businesses that implement notable sustainable practices, drive environmental initiatives, and inspire others. "Marshall-Tufflex is honoured to be recognised for its continued commitment to sustainability,” comments Jon Chamberlain, Managing Director from Marshall-Tufflex. “Winning both accolades highlights our role as a leader in sustainable manufacturing. By integrating recycled material in our core product lines, engaging employees and suppliers in our net zero mission, and transparently sharing environmental data with customers, the company is setting a benchmark for the electrical and construction industries.” These awards follow several sustainability milestones for the company, including supplier engagement workshops, investment in low-emission technologies, and the roll-out of a circular economy trial with an electrical training college. For more from Marshall-Tufflex, click here.