DEHN surge protection for high power and fast charging posts

DEHN is expanding its portfolio to include the DEHNguard M DC ACI 1250 FM, a surge arrester developed for use in HPCs and fast charging posts up to 1250V. The device is also a reliable component in DC battery storage systems. The expansion of the charging infrastructure for electric mobility is gaining momentum. Although there is still a long way to go before charging points are available everywhere, it is crucial to protect these investments and ensure their uninterrupted operation.  Quick and easy commissioning and long-term reliable operation of the equipment are the main priority for operators and installers of charging stations. Surge protective devices such as the new DEHNguard M DC ACI 1250 FM are an essential part of the protection concept for these systems. With a protection level of 2.5kV and a short-circuit resistance of 100kA, this modular Type Two arrester is also ideal for use in battery storage systems. In addition, non-response up to 1200V fulfils the normative requirement of IEC 61851-23. The built-in ACI technology with integrated switch-spark gap combination eliminates the need for an external back-up fuse, saving valuable space in the charging post. There is no need for complex dimensioning of back-up fuses, selectivity and connection cross-sections when designing new charging points. The pluggable modules can be replaced quickly and easily in the event of a defect. The floating remote signalling contact on the underside of the device provides reliable information about the status of the arrester for easy remote monitoring. For more from DEHN click here.

LEDVANCE joins CEF Live to showcase innovative solutions

LEDVANCE has announced it will be exhibiting at CEF Live. This is the first time LEDVANCE has attended the exhibition, which is an important event for the electrical sector.  Held at the NEC in Birmingham on the 5-6 June, CEF Live unites thousands of professionals from across the electrical sector, including a wealth of manufacturers. Located in the centre of the UK, the exhibition provides a well-placed platform for LEDVANCE to profile its recently opened warehouse, also located in the region.  This extension to its business operations with its central location, will allow LEDVANCE to serve local needs more easily. Due to a wide variety of solutions available, this will result in rapid distribution to clients across the UK.  The LEDVANCE team will also be taking the opportunity at CEF Live to unveil a number of exciting new products. This includes the Bulkhead Combo, a compact and robust lighting solution designed for indoor and industrial applications. The new Bulkhead Combo uses an innovative and convenient Plug & Upgrade system, ensuring effortless integration of sensors and emergency modules. Upgrading the Bulkhead Combo with emergency lighting and sensor add-ons takes just seven minutes, making it exceptionally time efficient.  Also being showcased at CEF Live will be LEDVANCE’s new Panel Compact 600 TP(a). This premium LED panel is designed for modern office and commercial environments. Featuring a TP(a) rated diffuser, the panel provides enhanced fire safety compliance, while delivering up to 120lm/W efficiency. Completing the line-up will be the new Emergency Bulkhead, a reliable and durable emergency lighting solution designed to provide essential illumination during power failures. With an emergency duration of three hours, the Emergency Bulkhead ensures that critical areas such as corridors and stairwells remain illuminated at all times. In addition, LEDVANCE will be showcasing its Fire Rated Spotlight, a high-performance lighting solution specifically designed for applications requiring both safety and reliability. It is ideal for areas where fire resistance is a priority, providing both security and energy efficiency.  All of these solutions will be available for distribution from the new Midlands-based LEDVANCE warehouse.  The exhibition marks the start of a busy summer for LEDVANCE, with a further product launch scheduled for later in June. This new addition to the LEDVANCE range will offer further options for electrical professionals, bolstering its already extensive portfolio.  For more from LEDVANCE click here.

IronmongeryDirect publishes Mental Health in the Trades Report

Trade supplier, IronmongeryDirect, has released its annual Mental Health in the Trades Report, which helps shed light on the ongoing challenges around mental health in the industry. Tradespeople from across the country were surveyed for the report, and the research looks at the sheer scale of the problem, the leading causes of poor mental health among trade professionals, their access to support, and how further help can be delivered. It also includes the incredible stories of tradespeople who have faced mental health difficulties and bravely shared their struggles to highlight the importance of seeking help. The report’s findings show the mental health challenges in the industry persist and by some measures are more widespread than 12 months ago. This year’s survey found that a staggering 91% of tradespeople say they’ve experienced work-related stress in the last year, with 56% indicating they experience these stresses at least once a week. This is a significant increase from last year’s report when just over a quarter (27%) reported weekly work-related stress. The mental health report also highlights the stigma that sadly still remains around talking about mental health. In fact, 56% of tradespeople revealed that they don’t talk to anyone about their mental health and almost half (48%) say they worry about how others will perceive them if they do open up. In addition, over one-fifth (22%) of tradespeople are unsure how to access the mental health support services they need. Ellis Osborn, Head of Ecommerce at IronmongeryDirect, comments, “The findings of our report make it clear that there is still so much more that needs to be done to tackle this crisis, which is impacting so many tradespeople. This has to change! We hope that by shining a light on the scale of the problem we can help effect a meaningful change in the industry.” IronmongeryDirect is committed to raising awareness of the mental health challenges in the industry over recent years with a series of high-profile campaigns and tireless fundraising. The company has donated over £13,000 to Basildon Mind to support the charity’s efforts to improve the mental health of local communities. For last year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, IronmongeryDirect organised the UK’s first ever inter-trade football tournament (read more about this in our archives). Held at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge stadium, the aim was to further raise awareness of mental health in the trades and highlight the benefits of exercise for improved wellbeing. To read the Mental Health in the Trades Report 2025 in full, click here. For more from IronmongeryDirect, click here.

Smart lighting implemented at Lost Shore Surf Resort

Thorn Lighting's advanced luminaires, including Caelon RGBW Bluetooth, Urba, and Contrast with Bluetooth, have been carefully selected to enhance the Lost Shore Surf Resort in Edinburgh. The scheme ensures a visually appealing and functional environment but also addresses the site's proximity to Edinburgh Airport by minimising upward light. Located in Ratho, just 25 minutes from Edinburgh city centre, Lost Shore is the world's first inland surf resort and home to Europe's largest wave pool. The lagoon, which is three times the size of the pitch at Wembley Stadium, generates up to 1,000 waves per hour, creating an enjoyable experience for surfers of all abilities. Beyond the water, the resort features luxury accommodation, a waterfront bar and restaurant, a surf school and wellness facilities, establishing itself as a major attraction for surfers and visitors alike. Lighting played a sensitive role in shaping the resort's identity. It needed to enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings, complement the resort's striking architecture, and create a safe, welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Engaged by landscape architect HarrisonStevens, Thorn Lighting's solutions were carefully chosen to achieve this vision, ensuring a seamless blend of performance, aesthetics, and sustainability. However, Lost Shore's proximity to Edinburgh Airport posed a significant challenge in terms of light control. The design had to carefully prevent any upward light spill which could interfere with flight paths while ensuring effective, safe illumination across the resort. Similarly, the lighting design needed to respect the site's woodland setting, again preserving the night sky while enhancing key architectural and landscape elements. Thorn Lighting implemented a tailored scheme that enhances the built environment and natural surroundings to meet these challenges. Caelon S RGBW Bluetooth spotlights were selected to illuminate the dramatic cliff faces bordering the lagoon. Typically used for bridge and façade lighting, these luminaires were specified to highlight the rugged rock formations, creating an impressive yet controlled effect. Their tight optical control ensures precise lighting while minimising glare - an essential consideration for night surfers. Urba lanterns (IDA Dark Sky Approved, 3000K) were installed in the car parks and arrival areas. These luminaires provide high-quality urban lighting while reducing light pollution, supporting the resort's commitment to sustainability. Designed by Wilmotte & Industries, the Urba lanterns ensure a sophisticated yet understated presence that guides visitors safely through the space. Contrast floodlights on multi-head columns throughout the resort offer flexible, Bluetooth-controlled illumination, allowing different lighting scenes to be created for various events and activities. This adaptability ensures that the resort remains visually dynamic, with the lighting enhancing the overall atmosphere while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic. A balance of aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability drove the selection of Thorn's luminaires. The ability to adjust lighting intensity and colour via Bluetooth ensures that different areas of the resort can be tailored to specific activities, from vibrant event lighting to more subtle ambient settings. This adaptability contributes to the resort's distinctive identity while reducing energy consumption and minimising environmental impact. Debbie Harrison, Associate Director at HarrisonStevens, comments, "Lighting the Lost Shore Surf Resort was both exciting and challenging. Its proximity to Edinburgh airport and situation within a country park setting were the key factors which informed the lighting solutions. The resulting design is compliant and respectful of its surroundings. Thorn worked with our brief, the client’s budget and the design team requirements to create an atmospheric and sustainable scheme.” As the first inland surf resort of its kind, it is anticipated that Lost Shore is set to become a major tourism and sporting destination. Thorn Lighting's innovative solutions have played a key role in realising this vision, ensuring that the lighting not only enhances the resort's features, but also supports its long-term sustainability goals. With recognition from the Architectural Excellence Award (Public Use) 2025, Lost Shore is a testament to the power of thoughtful design, proving that lighting can shape experiences, define spaces, and create an unforgettable sense of place. For more from Thorn Lighting, click here.

Acrospire illuminates London’s Morgan's Walk development

Set against the riverside backdrop of Battersea, London’s Morgan’s Walk development has been enhanced with Acrospire’s contemporary Chelsea lanterns – blending modern lighting performance with a design that complements the area’s sought-after aesthetic. Nestled along the River Thames between Battersea Bridge and the landmark Montevetro building, Morgan's Walk is a private estate renowned for its blend of modern living and scenic surroundings. With 66 houses and 156 flats set within 10 acres of landscaped gardens, the estate is designed to offer a tranquil escape in the heart of London. However, as the existing lighting infrastructure aged, residents sought a solution that would enhance safety, maintain the aesthetic integrity of the estate, and provide energy efficiency. Morgan's Walk Management thus partnered with Acrospire to deliver a modern, visually appealing, and high-performance lighting upgrade that would meet the unique needs of the estate while ensuring minimal disruption to the local environment. A total of 53 Chelsea lanterns by Acrospire were installed across the estate. The Chelsea is a contemporary amenity lantern, designed to offer superior photometric performance while blending seamlessly into modern urban environments. The Morgan's Walk team selected Chelsea for its sleek, modern design, which harmonises with the estate's architectural style both during the day and at night. To enhance safety, the SYMAREAWIDE lens provides a symmetrical wide beam, ensuring even illumination across communal areas and walkways and helping residents feel safer after dark. A 3000K colour temperature was specified to align with best practices for urban wildlife protection, minimising light pollution along the Thames. The lanterns, which carry a 12-year warranty, also boast an IK10++ impact rating, ensuring long-lasting performance that withstands potential damage and environmental wear. The new lighting installation at Morgan's Walk successfully enhances both safety and aesthetics while providing a sustainable solution that aligns with the estate's long-term maintenance and environmental goals. Michael Stark, Director of Morgan's Walk Management, comments, "We chose Acrospire's Chelsea lanterns over competitor products because they not only looked great when illuminated, but they also complemented the estate beautifully during the day. Other options lacked a bowl, which meant they could attract insects and cobwebs - an issue we wanted to avoid, especially in a riverside location. "The Chelsea lantern is competitively priced and offers a particularly long warranty, minimising future maintenance costs. The service from Acrospire was second to none, ensuring a seamless installation and an excellent final result." For more from Acrospire, click here.

Michael Smith Switchgear receives King's Award for Enterprise

Michael Smith Switchgear has been honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise in recognition of the company’s work in sustainable development. The Leicester manufacturer is one of 197 organisations to be recognised with the prestigious business award. The King’s Awards for Enterprise recognises outstanding UK businesses. Now in its 59th year, the award celebrates achievement in four categories: innovation, international trade, sustainable development, and promoting opportunity through social mobility. MSSL is one of only 27 businesses to be honoured in the sustainable development category this year, and it comes after a decade of work on embedding sustainability at the heart of its operations. MSSL achieved Carbon Neutral status in 2022, and is currently seven years ahead of Make UK’s net zero carbon reduction roadmap. It has doubled revenue and workforce over the last nine years, now employing 54 people. MSSL has also proactively enacted a string of sustainability measures which have reduced carbon emissions by 58% since 2018. Speaking to BusinessDesk East Midlands, Sean Smith, Managing Director, says, “It’s great for our team to see their hard work recognised at the highest level. This has never been a box-ticking exercise for us - it’s an area in which we really want to lead change.” The King’s Award recognition comes as Michael Smith Switchgear marks its 40th anniversary. Founded in 1985, MSSL has gone from a small yard behind a Leicester terrace to a purpose-built site that strives to set the standards for sustainable manufacturing. MSSL began its sustainability journey soon after Operations and Finance Director, Emily Smith, joined the company in 2013. Emily, a chartered accountant, has been actively involved in global conservation charities since childhood. Emily comments, “Lots of companies want to move towards net zero but don’t know where to start. This award shows that making a series of small steps over a period of time enables anyone to help protect future generations.” As well as sustainability, MSSL focuses closely on standards and safety, having recently renewed its four ISO certifications - including ISO 14001 for Environmental Management Systems - and recording nine consecutive years of RoSPA Gold Medal Awards. The Rt Hon Liz Kendall MP recently visited MSSL’s site on the Braunstone Frith Industrial Estate, in her Leicester West constituency. She met with team members and saw first-hand the innovative measures underpinning MSSL’s sustainability success. Liz Kendall MP comments, “Michael Smith Switchgear is a brilliant example of how manufacturing growth does not need to compromise net zero ambitions while also creating fantastic roles for apprentices”. For more from Michael Smith Switchgear, click here.

Siemens introduces new ‘training wall’

Siemens continues to invest in its partner training programme with the announcement of the introduction of a ‘training wall’ to enhance the practical experience at its dedicated facility in Manchester. Training has always been at the heart of Siemens' relationships with its partners, with the company recognising the vital role it plays in optimising the potential of its fire safety solutions. The new wall features the Siemens fire safety panels - Cerberus PRO and Cerberus FIT - along with detectors and sounders, including the FDA241 and FDA262 from the aspirating smoke detection (ASD and ASD+) range, all networked to allow engineers to see how the different elements can work together. The wall also has two fire dampers controlled by Siemens actuators which are integrated with the fire safety systems, as well as a PXC4 automation station, a Connect Box IOT unit and a Desigo optic embedded device from Siemens BMS (building management systems) portfolio, all of which can be integrated as part of a Siemens Building X single digital platform. Justin Leeks was appointed as Siemens Fire Product Trainer in 2023 and delivers many of the programmes. He recognises the importance of those undertaking the training being able to actually get experience of using the systems, commenting, “Theory is important, but it only goes so far. I have been a fire systems engineer myself so understand how getting your hands dirty by being ‘under the hood’ and seeing how these systems operate is the best way of learning. This knowledge can then be taken into the field by engineers who understand the specifics of the systems and how to best manage installation, commissioning and maintenance. “One of the benefits of the systems is that a lot of the work can be done in advance, pre-configuring a whole site and thereby offering significant savings in on-site installation and commissioning time. I’d like to thank Advanced Air and Detector Testors for supplying some of the equipment for the wall – it’s great to see that other companies also recognise the value of training the next generation.” The Siemens training programme is designed to be cost effective but comprehensive, with e-learning used to cover the fundamentals, followed by face-to-face training to go into more engineering detail. The training wall has been future-proofed, with a modular approach enabling new products to be added as they are developed. Rob Yates, Siemens' Head of Building Products Fire Safety in the UK and Ireland, adds, “Effective training programmes are vital to the future of the fire safety industry. Much is spoken of the skills shortage which demonstrates all too clearly why it is more important than ever that we invest in the training of those that do choose to go into fire safety engineering. Hopefully, in doing so, not only do we develop their skills, but we also potentially encourage others to consider it as a career option.” For more from Siemens, click here.

Schneider Electric unveils new power security innovations

Schneider Electric, a specialist in energy management and automation, is launching a number of offerings designed to maintain power supply in the event of an outage. The transfer switch innovations increase power security and availability, while reducing downtime by ensuring the supply of power to a building by moving to emergency backup sources, such as generators or batteries, if the primary source goes down. This means organisations can maintain vital services and avoid business disruption and potential financial losses by keeping essential equipment and operations up and running during a power cut. The new automatic transfer switch products include: Acti9 Incoming Automatic Transfer Switch Kit This is a new addition to Schneider Electric’s Acti9 range, equipped with TransferPacT Automatic, providing transfer switching capabilities to an Acti 9 distribution board up to 125A. The transfer switching kit follows the Acti9 design and offers a bolt-on configuration, allowing the option to retrofit onto existing Acti9 equipment. It is an off-the-shelf, ready-to-install innovation that is provided as an all-in-one kit and includes sensing inputs, monitoring, and control logic for source changeover operations. ASCO Single Way Bypass Transfer Switch This is a newly designed switch offering a single-way bypass arrangement. This allows primary power switches to be inspected, tested and maintained without interrupting the supply of power. The new Single Way Bypass ASCO switch offers a current capacity rating from 32A to 400A with IP31 and IP55 ingress protection rating, and is suitable for various applications and conditions. ASCO’s firefighting lift variant ensures that critical applications are able to continue to run efficiently in the event of a fire. TransferPacT – 32A-1600A With a new frame size, the TransferPacT all-in-one transfer switch now offers intelligent transfer switching capabilities between 32A-1600A. TransferPacT provides automatic transfer switching as fast as 500ms, as well as best-in-class power availability, even in extreme working environments. It has a futureproof design allowing for flexible functionality expansion with swappable function modules. It also offers multiple additional functions, including remote control, load shedding, generator control, fire protection and beyond. David Williams, Schneider Electric’s Vice President for Transactional Business, says, “We are having many conversations with organisations about the need for increased power security and availability as the demand continues to rise putting pressure on the grid at times. Few organisations can afford to be without a steady power supply and for some, such as healthcare providers, it can be a life-or-death situation. “Our new transfer switch kits are there to provide peace of mind so that if the primary power source fails, it’s quick and easy to transfer over to emergency sources, keeping vital equipment and operations up and running and limiting the impact.” For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Carhartt launches Sun Defender workwear range

With tradespeople spending hours outdoors and vulnerable to harmful UV rays, dehydration and heat stress, Carhartt has introduced a new Sun Defender range – a collection of durable, high-performance workwear with built-in sun protection that doesn’t have reduce comfort or mobility. Sun Defender fabric is rated to UPF 40+, offering maximum protection by blocking 98% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. The range includes lightweight, breathable garments that help workers stay cool, and each piece in the collection is designed with Carhartt’s Force technology which wicks moisture away from the skin and dries quickly to prevent discomfort in warm conditions. Sun protection on site doesn’t have to mean heavy, restrictive layers, Carhartt says, and its Force Sun Defender Relaxed Fit Pant combines lightweight, durable fabric with UPF 40+ protection, designed to keep tradespeople cool and comfortable while standing up to the rigours of site work. With built-in stretch and a relaxed fit, they offer full freedom of movement – which is essential for climbing ladders, kneeling, and lifting materials throughout the day. Reinforced pockets provide practical storage, while the sweat-wicking fabric helps prevent overheating. For upper-body protection, Carhartt has introduced the Force Sun Defender Lightweight Long-Sleeve Logo Graphic T-Shirt. Made from a lightweight polyester blend, this long-sleeved top offers full arm coverage without adding unnecessary warmth. The breathable, fast-drying material actively pulls sweat away from the skin, keeping contractors cool even in direct sunlight. It’s ideal for roofers, landscapers and anyone working in exposed environments where long hours in the sun are unavoidable. For those who prefer short sleeves but still need UV protection, the Short-Sleeve Logo Graphic T-Shirt delivers the same moisture-wicking and quick-drying benefits, along with UPF 40+ shielding. The relaxed fit ensures all-day comfort while the durable fabric is designed to withstand the demands of a tough working environment. Why UPF-rated workwear matters Many workers assume that a standard cotton t-shirt is enough to protect against the sun, but ordinary fabrics only provide minimal UV protection – often as low as UPF 5. This means harmful rays can still penetrate through the material, increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Carhartt’s Sun Defender range ensures workers are properly protected with fabrics tested and rated to block out the vast majority of UV radiation. Prolonged exposure to the sun is a serious health risk; skin cancer rates are rising in the UK, with outdoor workers among those most at risk due to cumulative exposure. Excessive heat can also lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke, so investing in the right protective clothing is just as important as wearing a hard hat or high-vis vest, Carhartt believes. The Carhartt Sun Defender range makes it easier for workers to stay safe under the sun while focusing on the job at hand. For more from Carhartt, click here.

Doepke UK electrifies the industry with high-quality switchgear

In a world that increasingly demands reliability and speed, Doepke continues to lead the charge by offering state-of-the-art switchgear to industries across the UK. As an innovative company known for its commitment to quality and performance, Doepke ensures that each product it delivers meets the highest safety, functionality and durability standards. Whether powering up commercial sites or supporting industrial operations, Doepke’s switchgear ensures everything runs smoothly. Reliable and safe power distribution Switch or switch fuse versions are available in 3P + N link (unswitched neutral), meeting the requirements for traditional commercial and industrial installations. 4P (switched neutral) versions are available for complex power requirements, such as 3-phase PV incoming supplies and/or TT earthing systems. Higher current requirements With a rating of up to 630A, the switch and switch fuse range is designed to support high-power loads, making it suitable for large-scale industrial machinery or power distribution needs. Proudly assembled in the UK Doepke takes pride in its UK-based assembly process, ensuring all switchgear products are manufactured with the utmost care and attention to detail. By assembling locally, Doepke can offer better quality control and faster response times, making it easier for customers to get their products without delays. Convenient collection and strategic location Located in the Midlands, Doepke offers unbeatable convenience for clients looking to collect their switchgear products through their wholesalers. With a centrally positioned base, customers from all over the country can easily access the products they need by collecting from Doepke's premises in Daventry, Northamptonshire. Fast, next-day delivery In today’s fast-paced world, businesses need equipment quickly to minimise downtime and keep operations on track. Doepke understands this urgency and offers next-day delivery for many of its products. Fast delivery times without compromising quality are a significant factor that sets Doepke apart in the highly competitive switchgear market. Trust Doepke for the best in the business When it comes to switchgear, Doepke is a name you can trust. Headquartered in Germany, with offices worldwide, the company is committed to providing superior products, high-quality materials and fast service, solidifying its leadership in the industry. Doepke offers the expertise and experience to meet all your needs for commercial, industrial or residential projects. Global product, local service All Doepke products are available through wholesalers across the UK. You can benefit from next-day delivery to your local wholesaler or collect directly from the UK depot in Daventry. For more information about Doepke UK: TEL: 01628 829 133 Email: sales@doepke.co.uk