Thorn and Zumtobel Lighting team up with Cancer Research UK

Thorn and Zumtobel UK and Ireland have announced their partnership with Cancer Research UK as the chosen charity for the 2024/25 financial year. Following an internal survey, employees overwhelmingly voted for Cancer Research UK, recognising the organisation's crucial role in the fight against cancer. Cancer survival rates have improved significantly over the years. In the 1970s, only one in four people with cancer survived their disease for 10 years or more. Today, this figure has doubled to two in four people. Cancer Research UK aims to accelerate progress so that in the next 20 years, three in four people will survive cancer for at least a decade. Paul Kilburn, Managing Director Thorn and Zumtobel Lighting UK and Ireland, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, "We are proud to support Cancer Research UK and their mission to improve cancer survival rates. Our team is committed to making a difference, and we are confident that, together, we can contribute significantly to the fight against cancer." Jan Leafe, Relationship Manager at Cancer Research UK, shared her gratitude, "It means a lot to us that the Thorn and Zumtobel have chosen to partner with Cancer Research UK, and we're here to support to the finish line with training and fundraising tips. At Cancer Research UK, our vision is to bring about a world where everyone can live longer, better lives and be free from the fear of cancer. We've made huge progress already, but we have much further to go – and we can't do it without organisational support. Every step we take relies on every pound donated. So, whether you're raising £250 or £2,500, you're supporting our vital work that will make a difference to people affected by cancer, now and in the future." Thorn and Zumtobel say they are looking forward to a successful year of fundraising and awareness-raising activities in collaboration with Cancer Research UK, contributing to its vital work in cancer research and treatment advancements. Fore more from Zumtobel, click here.

NICEIC launches fresh new series of THE WIRE

NICEIC has announced new episodes of its webinar series, THE WIRE, starting this month. The webinars are free and exclusive to NICEIC-certified businesses and their employees and covering a wide range of topics relevant to the electrical industry, such as regulations, standards, best practices and technical skills. The webinars provide an excellent opportunity to keep up to date with hot topics in the sector, as well as delivering a valuable source of continuing professional development (CPD), a requirement for NICEIC-certified businesses. NICEIC Technical Director, Paul Collins, comments, “We're committed to supporting our certified businesses towards success. Our webinar series, THE WIRE, delivers essential industry insights and Q&A sessions. We continually expand topics to maximise value and support continuing professional development, a crucial aspect of NICEIC certification.” Each webinar will feature talks from NICEIC’s technical experts. Viewers will have the opportunity to learn from these professionals and ask any questions they may have. Topics covered The Draft for Public Consultation (DPC) of Amendment 4:2026 to BS 7671:2018 – what it is and what you need to know (19 September) Uncover the process behind the UK’s key electrical standard BS 7671 (3 October) Essential preparation for your NICEIC MCS assessment (17 October) Essential update on Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS) (14 November) Your NICEIC assessment: Common mistakes and how to avoid them (28 November) The series will conclude with NICEIC's annual end of the year quiz on 5 December. Participants can test their knowledge of BS 7671 and all things electrical installation. The winner will be crowned NICEIC 2024 quiz champion and win a £100 Amazon or Love2shop voucher.  For more from NICEIC, click here.

HIKMICRO unveils new Mini2 and Mini2 Plus models

HIKMICRO has added new versions of its innovative thermal imaging solutions, the Mini2 V2 and Mini2 Plus V2, to the UK construction market. These compact, smartphone attachment thermal cameras are designed to meet the growing demand for portable, user-friendly and affordable thermal imaging technology across a wide range of applications. From HVAC inspections to building diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting, the new Mini2 V2 and Mini2 Plus V2 combine cutting-edge image enhancement with the flexibility to work on both iOS and Android devices. By harnessing HIKMICRO’s SuperIR technology – applied to the Mini Series for the first time – users can now access unprecedented image clarity and precision on their smartphones. This breakthrough makes the new Mini Series an indispensable tool for professionals across the construction sector. The HIKMICRO Mini2 V2 and Mini2 Plus V2 thermal cameras attach directly to smartphones, transforming them into powerful, high-resolution thermal imagers. The result is a more versatile tool that seamlessly integrates with mobile technology, offering thermal resolution of 256x192 pixels, real time SuperIR image enhancement for sharper, clearer visuals, dual compatibility with iOS and Android, expanding usability and two lens options: focus-free wide-angle and manual focus (Mini2 Plus) for adaptable imaging solutions “With the new versions of the Mini2 and Mini2 Plus, we’ve taken the range to the next level by applying our proprietary SuperIR technology and adding iOS compatibility,” says Will Jing of HIKMICRO. “These features enhance the versatility of the device, offering even greater precision and ease of use. There are also enhanced compatibility solutions which make the range suitable for Android devices, the latest iPhone 15 series, iPads, tablets and Windows PC laptops.” Both products are compatible with HIKMICRO’s free Viewer App (downloadable from the Apple Store or Google Play) allowing users to view, adjust, analyse and share their images. Windows PC users can also access Analyzer Software, free and downloadable from the HIKMICRO website, which allows you to explore, track live temperatures, report, track, provide professional analysis and much more. Battery-free, the Mini2 V2 and Mini2 Plus V2 are powered directly through the smartphone connection, so users are never caught off-guard by a dead battery. Equipped to meet the needs of electricians, plumbers, HVAC professionals and automotive technicians, the range brings thermal imaging technology into the hands of more users at an affordable price. The Mini2 V2 and Mini2 Plus V2 are tailored to different user needs with their choice of focus-free and manual focus lens options. Both cameras provide flexibility for a range of scenarios: Mini2 V2: This focus-free model is equipped with a wide-angle lens that offers a broad field of view, ideal for scanning large areas such as walls, floors and building facades. It’s the perfect tool for quickly detecting issues like air leaks, insulation problems and moisture infiltration on a large scale. Mini2 Plus V2: For more precise, detailed inspections, the Mini2 Plus features a manually adjustable focus, making it possible to inspect small objects like circuit boards or perform distant inspections of electrical or mechanical components. This adaptability makes the Mini2 Plus especially useful for professionals needing to inspect both near and far objects safely.

New Fluke tester cuts testing time by 30% and reporting by 50%

Fluke has launched the new Fluke 1670 Series Multifunction Installation Tester which can cut the amount of time electricians and maintenance technicians spend producing reports by up to 50%. Designed by Fluke to represent the future of installation testing and become 'the most important tool in an electrician’s toolbelt', the Multifunction Installation Tester also enable tests to be carried out up to 30% faster. Available in three models – ideally suited to the needs of residential, commercial and industrial applications – the tools boost productivity through a user programmable AutoTest function that enables electricians to run an entire automatic installation test sequence at the touch of a button. Measurement data and metadata from the field are quickly stored, managed and shared using Fluke Connect software while Fluke’s TruTest software simplifies the process of generating documentation. A single click enables inspection reports to be previewed in the field and certificates generated while on-site. Even inspection invoices can be created at the same time. Whether working in residential, commercial or industrial installation commissioning, electricians will welcome being able to eliminate time-consuming double-entry of data. Results will no longer need to be recorded during testing and then entered manually to a computer, a method that is prone to errors and delays. Wireless Bluetooth connectivity on the Fluke 1670 Series solves this problem by automatically linking test results to the circuit or point under test. Electricians will also save time by not having to return to a site because key measurements have not been taken or results are found to be incorrect.​ The error-proof Fluke 1670 Series Multifunction Installation Tester shows the operator instantly on-site if any tests have been missed. At the same time, automatic measurement validation compares installation test results to an integrated standards reference, delivering an immediate visual indication of pass or fail on the device’s integrated full-colour touchscreen. The clear display includes a full keyboard so there is no requirement for an addition device or laptop to be used for entering notes or editing details. Jit Patel, Fluke Product Manager for installation testers says, “Electricians can spend a minimum of 25% of their time processing data and creating reports and the Fluke 1670 Series Multifunction Installation Tester simply takes this headache away. As a best-in-class electrical installation inspection solution, this device represents a genuine evolution in documenting. Because it simplifies inspection results and reporting, boosts productivity and increases testing accuracy, we expect the Fluke 1670 Series to become the most important tool in an electrician’s toolbelt.” For more from Fluke, click here.

Championing mental health awareness on World Suicide Prevention Day

In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September), Fergus is calling for greater attention to mental health in the workplace. Fergus believes that efficient workload management and transparent communication are key factors in reducing stress and anxiety, both of which are often precursors to mental health issues. This year, Fergus is using its platform to highlight how job management tools can contribute to creating healthier, more supportive work environments World Suicide Prevention Day aims to raise awareness about suicide and the steps that can be taken to reduce its occurrence globally. While the conversation about mental health has gained momentum in recent years, workplaces continue to be a significant source of stress for many individuals. "At Fergus, we understand that the pressures of work can take a toll on mental health," says Fergus founder, Dan Pollard, who himself has experienced the stress and strains of running a trade business. “We’re committed not only to helping businesses manage their operations more efficiently but also to creating environments where employees feel supported, reducing the risks of burnout and mental strain." “The physical exhaustion and chronic pain associated with physically demanding work also affects mental well-being and we need to be talking about it. Time pressures add another layer of stress, as tradespeople often find themselves meeting tight deadlines and managing emergency callouts, which makes them feel like they are living in a constant state of urgency. Those that own their own business or are sole traders have the added stress of keeping admin at bay, cash flowing, and jobs coming in, so it’s just a pipe ready to burst without an outlet.”  Fergus’s job management software offers solutions that address some of the key stressors in the workplace. Features such as efficient workload distribution, clear task tracking and enhanced communication tools help alleviate anxiety, foster transparency and prevent feelings of isolation among employees. By automating and streamlining processes, Fergus enables teams to maintain a healthier work-life balance. Fergus is encouraging businesses across the UK to prioritise mental health by utilising job management software to create safer, healthier work environments. The company is also exploring partnerships with mental health organisations to provide direct access to professional resources through its platform. Integrating features like mental health break reminders, anonymous feedback tools and easy access to counselling services can further promote a supportive culture within organisations. Fergus has come up with a few suggestions on how tradespeople – and their mates – can better look after their mental health. Tip 1: Speak up, mate According to Mates in Construction, construction workers are six times more likely to die from suicide than an accident at work. Don’t bottle it up. If something’s weighing you down, don’t keep it to yourself. Tip 2: Keep an eye out for your mates Safety is teamwork, and so is mental wellbeing. If you see a mate struggling, don’t turn a blind eye. Asking a simple “You alright?” can be the first step in making a big difference. Tip 3: Limit alcohol and substance use We all enjoy a cold one, but moderation is key and a clear mind is better than a foggy buzz. Try swapping out a beer for a book or a movie night with friends or family. If you are really struggling to steer away from alcohol in a social setting, give a zero-alcohol option a go. Tip 4: Take a break We often think pushing through the pain is the answer, but that’s a quick ticket to burnout city. We all need a breather, whether it’s a weekend off or even a longer break, and stepping away gives your mind a chance to reset. Tip 5: Get physical and eat right After a long day, the last thing you want to do is exercise. But physical activity releases endorphins, your body’s natural mood lifters. Even a simple 30-minute walk after work can help clear your head. It’s tempting to grab fast food for lunch, but your body - and mind - need better fuel. Poor diet contributes to poor mental health, and a balanced meal with fruits, veggies, and lean protein can boost your mood and energy. Fore more from Fergus, click here.

New MEP Solutions brochure released

Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017 and Dame Judith Hackitt’s report on Building Regulations and Fire Safety, the Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA) came into force in the UK. It's a fundamental reform of regulation across the entire construction and residential property sectors, and covers all buildings, not just high-rise residential ones, and aims to create a more robust safety regime. Key elements include the establishment of a Building Safety Regulator and additional competency requirements for those involved in designing and building higher-risk residential buildings. The BSA defines Duty Holder Roles as: • Client • Principle Contractor • Principle Designer • Contractor • Designer For MEP contractors and designers, this means they have a Duty Holder Role and therefore have to comply with the BSA, and have obligations and responsibilities and a duty to champion greater building safety. Failure to comply with the BSA means breaking the law, so anyone who has a Duty Holder Role must take the responsibility with utmost importance. To comply with the BSA, MEP contractors require competence and compliance and the 'Golden Thread of Information'. Throughout the lifecycle of a building, a web of information regarding how the building is built, the materials used, the fire safety measures taken, and much more is created and it is important that this information is collected, recorded, and saved – this is the 'Golden Thread of Information'. In terms of compliance, MEP contractors must use products that are fit for purpose which means them having approvals, product passports, traceability, and are tested to European Technical Assessments (ETAs). For competency, MEP contractors must have installation operatives who have the necessary skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours (SKEB) to carry out the work and install the products correctly. To help MEP contractors be compliant with the Building Safety Act, Lindapter manufactures products to the highest standard, and has a multitude of independent approvals and extensive in-house product testing procedures. ISO 9001 accreditation also ensures full traceability of all products throughout the manufacturing process. Lindapter can also provide on site training to upskill the MEP installers raising their awareness, skills and knowledge of Lindapter MEP connections solutions. By providing training the competency of the MEP work force increases allowing MEP contractors to achieve competency in order to meet the BSA. As part of plugging product awareness and knowledge gaps, Lindapter has produced a 28-page brochure to highlight its unique range of approved steelwork connection solutions for MEP building service connections. The brochure is intended for anyone involved with the design or installation of building services. Lindapter steelwork connection products are used extensively around the world and are ideal when installing MEP building services. They provide an adjustable, faster and cost-effective alternative to on-site drilling or welding. In addition, the company's range of decking fixings, that are designed to fit inside the dovetail re-entrant channel of decking profiles, offer a zero impact method of installation with no drilling and therefore eliminates production of any silica dust from the concrete deck. The brochure explains further why an MEP contractor would choose Lindapter, the key benefits of using Lindapter connections, many examples of typical applications including project case studies, the free technical support services available from Lindapter, and information regarding independent product approvals. Featured in the brochure are typical applications showing connection solutions for: • Fire Protection Systems • Mechanical • Electrical • Plumbing • Strut Channel Applications • Offsite MEP modules Each section includes real-life project photographs, description of the solution and 3D renders so the reader can quickly understand and visualise the application and relate it to their own situation. To download the brochure, click here.

Unicrimp introduces new Pin Wall Plugs

Unicrimp, part of the Scolmore Group of companies, continues to expand its renowned Q-Crimp cable accessories range to offer installers a wider selection of solutions, which now includes the newly introduced Pin Wall Plugs. The new Pin Wall Plugs are ideal for securing cable clips and masonry nails, particularly in cases where the substrate is too dense or hard for conventional masonry nails or clips. With a nail diameter ranging from 1.2mm to 2mm, they provide a reliable and effective alternative for challenging installation conditions. Available in packs of 100, these wall plugs come in white and measure 5.5mm x 18mm. The Q-Crimp range of cable accessory products from Unicrimp provides everything required to harness cable between the consumer unit and the end accessory. The product offering comprises an extensive range of cable management consumables, including stainless steel cable ties, nylon cable ties, crimp terminals, PVC tape, copper tube terminals, cable clips, and brass and nylon glands. The Q-Crimp range also includes a number of trade tubs, offering a variety of essential fixings and clips in a handy, resealable format. More information can be found on Unicrimp's website. For more from Unicrimp, click here.

Baxi introduces heat pump cashback scheme

Baxi is welcoming the return of heating season by announcing its first ever Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) cashback promotion, which is reportedly the biggest yet by a UK manufacturer. Running from the start of September until 6 January 2025, Baxi Heat Pump installers can receive £600 cashback for their first three Baxi ASHP installations – up to £1,800 in total. The scheme is part of Baxi’s ongoing drive to support the UK’s switch to low carbon heat. The company hopes to incentivise more installers to develop the skills and knowledge that will ensure homeowners benefit from quality heat pump installations, helping the UK meet its net zero targets. All installers who qualify as a Baxi heat pump installer and complete an assisted commissioning with a Baxi commissioning engineer on their first heat pump installation will be eligible to claim the cashback. To receive the cashback, a Baxi HP-40 ASHP must be installed, commissioned and registered on Baxi Works. At the end of the promotion, Baxi will send the money directly to the installer’s chosen account. Full terms and conditions for the promotion along with FAQ’s are available on Baxi's website. Installers looking to take advantage of the cashback scheme and the business opportunities air source heat pumps offer can sign up for one of Baxi’s ASHP training programmes. This will also grant them an initial three-month Carno licence, which can be extended for up to one year. The Carno licence makes it easier for heating engineers to install heat pump systems in customers’ homes, helping them pre-qualify customers quickly and streamlining the full room-by-room heat loss calculation process. Through Baxi, installers can also receive discounted rates for Abode Heat’s 'Heat Pump Go' MCS Umbrella service which enables installers to easily access grant funding for homeowners. This helps make it simpler and more manageable for installers to move into heat pump installations while making these projects more accessible to potential customers. Corey Gooding, Strategic Account Manager at Baxi, says, “We’re really excited to roll out our first and the market’s most generous heat pump cashback scheme to reward our Baxi heat pump installers for their hard work and loyalty. Baxi is doing everything it can to encourage more people to become trained heat pump installers and make the journey a smooth one. With our combination of training opportunities and discounts for Baxi heat pump installers and partnerships with Carno and Abode, this industry beating cashback offering is just the cherry on top.” For more from Baxi, click here.

Top tips for new EV drivers on World EV Day

On World EV Day (9 September), NAPIT's External Affairs Manager, Nigel Richardson, share his tips and experiences of owning an electric vehicle. The number of electric vehicles on our roads is steadily increasing, but there are still a lot of myths about what they are like to own and drive, especially on long distances. If you have access to off-street parking, it is definitely worth getting a charge point installed for the extra convenience and to take advantage of cheaper electricity rates. I can charge my car between 12.30am and 5.30am at a cost of 8.5p per kWh, compared to 22.8p the rest of the day – enough to add 125 miles of charge, which is more than enough for my day to day needs. The car can be plugged in and topped up while I sleep. NAPIT recommends consumers get work done by competent registered tradespeople working for businesses who are committed to quality, safety and customer care. NAPIT certificated scheme members demonstrate their competence, hold the necessary insurances and have the right processes and procedures to assure compliant and safe work. Details of NAPIT registered members who can carry out EV charge point installations can be found at NAPIT - Member Search. NAPIT also offer a NAPIT training course for installers on how to install electric vehicle charging equipment safely. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend only topping up to 80% to preserve battery life, but 100% charge can be added if heading out on long journeys. Many EVs can now travel for around 300 miles on a single charge. I recently went on a trip to St Valery-sur-Somme in northern France and, although a little extra planning was needed, I didn’t experience any range anxiety. Setting off from Nottinghamshire at the ridiculously early hour of 2.30am, I stopped for breakfast and a comfort break at Thurrock Services near the Dartford Crossing two and a half hours later after travelling 150 miles where I plugged the car in. By the time I had finished my coffee and bacon sandwich, the battery was charged back to 80% and I headed off to Dover to catch the ferry another hour or 65 miles later. A quick stop at the large Carrefour supermarket near Calais for a jambon beurre baguette meant I could add a few more miles charge for the final 70 miles to my holiday destination. Once there I was able to explore the region and topped up at another 350kW charger five minutes away from where I was staying for the journey home, with another quick burst of electrons at Cambridge Services where I was going to stop anyway. There were no waits to charge, I was going to stop for a break, drink or stretch my legs at each stop anyway and the cost to fill up was considerably less than an equivalent petrol or diesel car, especially in France. A little extra planning is involved to identify where the fast chargers are located but the journey – my third visit to France in an EV – was stress free. My top tips are: • Get a charge point installed at home if you are able to; it makes charging cheaper and more convenient • Make sure the installation is carried out by a registered competent installer • It is not necessary to fully charge every time, a little and often is usually enough • On long journeys, plan your route and charge where you would stop anyway for food, drink or comfort breaks • Don’t charge beyond 80% at public chargers – it can take a long time to go from 80-100% and you may annoy other motorists waiting to charge • Once you have finished charging, move on from the charger to free it up for other motorists • Check which apps or RFID cars you will need For more from NAPIT, click here.

Navigating standards, regulations and legislation

Having worked in the electrical and fire sectors for 22 years as an installer, manager and now a Relationship Manager at Aico, Peter Price-Higgott says it is clear that there is confusion around what installers and landlords should be adhering to. Here, he reviews the relative documents, how they reference each other and how stakeholders should work between them. Legislation (law) The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2022 In 2022, the government introduced new requirements on Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms in the social rented sector and new CO Alarm requirements in the private rented sector, which came into force on 1 October 2022. The regulations do not stipulate the type of alarms (such as mains powered or battery powered) that should be installed, but instead, inform landlords of the smoke alarms available, based on the needs of the properties and their tenants. This includes outlining the alarms that are compliant with British Standards 5839-6, and how they link to the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Regulation 2022. CO alarms must be compliant with BS EN 50291-1 Smoke alarms must be compliant with BS EN 14604 In addition, landlords should follow the individual manufacturer’s instructions when installing alarms. To support this, Aico proudly offers free, award-winning Expert Installer Training, designed to ensure electrical contractors have all the information they need to effectively install domestic Fire and CO Alarm Systems. Learn more about the Expert Installer Training and sign up here. The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 On 20 March 2019, a new law came into force to make sure that rented houses and flats are ‘fit for human habitation’. This means they are safe, healthy and free from things that could cause serious harm, including fire and CO safety. If a landlord fails to meet these obligations, the tenant has the right to take action in court for breach of contract. Building regulations Building regulations apply whether you are self-building, renovating or extending a home. In fact, the majority of construction work, including fairly minor alterations, require building regulations compliance. These regulations sit alongside legislation and signpost you back to BS 5839-6 as detailed on page 9 of ‘Approved Document B’. Similarly, ‘Approved Document J’ for Carbon Monoxide will reference you to BS EN 50292:2013, outlining regulations for combustion appliances and fuel storage systems. Learn more about fire and CO building regulations here. British Standards British Standard 5839-6:2019+A1:2020 is the professional document for fire in residential properties. The document details various grades and categories of systems for properties, the varying factor is usually based on type and tenure. It outlines that a fire risks assessment should always be sought ‘where reasonably practicable’, however, these are rarely provided for single homeowner properties or rental properties. Without a fire risk assessment, the British Standards should be upheld as the minimum level of protection. It is vital for electrical contractors to gain the appropriate training and qualifications to prove competence in fire alarm and detection. Aico’s CPD certified Aico Expert Installer Training provides exactly that. Once complete, you can then consider the Aico City & Guilds (2426) course, a global benchmark that recognises excellence in training and learning for domestic Fire and CO Alarm Systems. Discover more about Aico’s award-winning training courses here: https://www.aico.co.uk/our-services/additional-training/ For more from Aico, click here.