NVC Lighting enhances CORE range

NVC Lighting, a supplier of high quality and cost-effective commercial LED lighting solutions, has announced enhancements to its popular CORE range of products. The company’s CORE range includes a number of everyday solutions that are used daily by electricians and electrical contractors on both large and smaller projects, such as for amenity spaces, industrial applications and floodlighting. All products in the CORE range come with a comprehensive five-year warranty as standard, valid from the date of installation. The range offers excellent performance and value, with strong and competitive specification (rated L70 at 50,000 hours). One of the new enhancements to NVC Lighting’s CORE range this year is PASCO – an IP65 multi-wattage / multi-CCT bulkhead fitting for commercial indoor amenity lighting. Amenity lighting in commercial buildings is vital to minimise the risk of accidents in safety critical areas, such as stairwells and corridors, and can also be part of a building’s emergency escape route -  meaning well-lit spaces are critical. NVC Lighting has also enhanced its industrial range of products to meet the needs of factories, workshops and warehouses. This includes KELSO, a low bay fitting with a choice of two outputs (100W, 15,068 lm, 151 l.lm/c.W and 135W, 20,076 lm, 150 l.lm/c.W), and NEPTUNE, a high output IP65 rated high-bay fitting. Another new product in the CORE range for 2024 is PUMA (pictured above), part of NVC Lighting’s floodlight range. Available in four wattages (10W, 1062 lm, 101 l.lm/c.W / 20W, 1847 lm, 98 l.lm/c.W / 30W, 3097 lm, 101 l.lm/c.W and 50W, 5623 lm, 111 l.lm/c.W), PUMA is a IP65 rated product with optional PIP, in a slim die-cast aluminium housing. For more from NVC Lighting, click here.

CBG leads lighting upgrade to St Paul’s Cathedral

As part of works to install new safety railings to the famed Whispering Gallery at St Paul’s Cathedral, CBG Light Perceptions was appointed to devise a new lighting scheme to align with the new design. Sitting 30 metres above the crossing of the nave, the Whispering Gallery is a circular walkway along the base of the cathedral’s dome structure, with views to the floor below and along the entire length of the Cathedral. The original lighting design was the work of Speirs Major Light Architecture. Dating back 25 years, the scheme was a combination of cold cathode tubes, dimmed halogen lighting and metal halide fixtures, which were common technologies of their time. The re-engineering of the design by CBG is part of a larger programme to upgrade the interior lighting of St Paul’s to more energy efficient light sources. As a multi-disciplined building services consultant, CBG was selected as the partner for the project. With specialisms including sustainability, building physics, refurbishment and asset management, the CBG team can holistically assess how to improve buildings and deliver the required outcomes. In 2023, when Light Perceptions joined CBG as the specialist lighting team, this enabled the business to offer clients an even more comprehensive service. To fulfil the requirements of the project and refresh the outdated lighting in the gallery, CBG specified iGuzzini’s Linealuce linear fixtures. This contemporary, high-performance miniaturised luminaire has replaced 64m of cold cathode fittings to provide uplight to the beautifully gilded, heritage Tijou railings. A warm white colour temperature has been specified. To offer improved illumination to the Thornhill frescoes, which adorn the dome above the gallery, CBG Light Perceptions specified iGuzzini Palco luminaires with a variety of carefully selected optics. These are controlled in a series of zones to highlight the most important elements of the painting and replace the older metal halide and halogen spotlights. An additional safety feature added to the gallery is a series of miniature, hidden emergency lights that can be used to provide low-level lighting to the floor of the gallery and also highlight the exit doors in the event of an emergency. The installation was carried out by a team of electricians from the cathedral's works department. Bruce Kirk, Founder of Light Perceptions, and a Director of CBG, says, “St Paul’s Cathedral is an iconic building and one that receives hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. As such, it is vital that the lighting creates both an inviting atmosphere and a safe environment. “Being trusted to work on this historic building is a huge credit to CBG Light Perceptions’ reputation. We are delighted with the results and confident that the new lighting is just the start of a brighter future for the cathedral.”

Heatrae Sadia Supreme instant hot water dispenser has Evolved

Introducing Heatrae Sadia's most energy efficient hot water dispenser ever. The new, Supreme Evo is the company's most energy efficient instant hot water dispenser yet, and offers a wealth of new features and ultimate flexibility. The premium, permanently plumbed and electrically powered water boiling unit includes Heatrae Sadia's smart Intelliboil Plus technology. This brings the water to boil on demand and if there is no use for an hour it reduces the temperature by 10°C, to provide energy efficient management of the boiling cycle. The Supreme Evo units are available in a choice of three capacities, delivering from 150 cups up to 180 cups of hot water one after the other, before the supply is depleted and the quick boiling cycle continues to heat the replenished volume to boiling temperature, ready for the next use. The Supreme Evo also has a built-in filter to improve the taste of drinking water and protection against limescale and sediment build-up. Features and benefits 2.5L, 5L and 7.5L range of capacities for suitability in a range of applications 2.5kW heating element for fast delivery of drinking water Built-in 3M filter to give improved taste of drinking water and protection against limescale and sediment build up Digital user interface and control enables you to select variable drinking water temperatures inc. boiling and coffee specific temperature Smart heating built in – monitors usage patterns and reduces water temperature at down times Built in seven-day programmer so heating times can be pre-selected, reducing energy consumption Coffee setting pre-selected temperature ideal for making coffee (92°C) Variable temperature control so pre-determined temperature can be input into appliance (80-96°C) Retrofittable bracket so you can use the same fixing points as existing Supreme models, improving ease of installation Error reports displayed reduced down-time and service cost UK design and manufacture for superior product quality and reduced carbon footprint Two-year product warranty for peace of mind Heatrae Sadia is part of Baxi, providing integrated solutions for domestic and commercial heating and hot water. For more information on the Supreme Evo please visit heatraesadia.com/supreme-evo. For more from Baxi, please click here.

WMC calls for enhanced building safety in wake of London fires

Wrexham Mineral Cables (WMC), a UK-based cable manufacturer, is calling for better building safety standards through the use of fire survival cables. WMC’s call to action comes after the recent fire in a residential tower block in Dagenham, East London, which required the evacuation of 80 people. The incident occurred just weeks after a blaze at the historic Somerset House, which is home to priceless artworks. WMC says these high-profile fire events underscore the urgent need for building designers and specifiers to identify and install appropriate cables that can survive - not just resist - real-life fire scenarios. Currently, specifiers are presented with a choice between polymeric cables and mineral insulated copper clad (MICC) cables. Due to the existing testing regime, both cable types are classed as fire-resistant, creating a misleading impression of equivalence. However, MICC cables have consistently demonstrated superior performance and proven to perform to higher safety standards in 'real fire’ scenarios. In 2023, WMC published a white paper outlining how cables – often an overlooked component of a building’s system –directly impact building safety. The paper advocates for the introduction of a higher classification of fire survival cable, which can continue to power critical circuits in the event of a fire. Colin Hughes, Group Manager at WMC, comments, “Last year, the UK Government introduced stricter building regulations in England as part of new secondary legislation to implement the Building Safety Act. Sadly, recent events in London remind us that buildings of all types remain at a high risk of fire, and we must take every measure to ensure their safety. “Fire survival cables are a vital component of building safety, yet they often remain an unrecognised hazard. Due to the lack of understanding about the important role they play in keeping buildings safe, all too often inferior cables are frequently installed, which may prove inadequate in the event of a fire. This uncertainty can only be addressed when all fire-resistant cables, regardless of size or construction, are subjected to true fire scenario tests. “At WMC, we are committed to educating the market about the advantages of specifying MICC fire survival cables.” To download WMC’s white paper, Expecting the unexpected: specifying safety-critical circuit cables for fire survival, click here. For more from Wrexham Mineral Cables, click here.

Helvar's Senses solution now commercially available

Helvar, an innovator of intelligent lighting products, has announced the official commercial launch of Helvar Senses, an advanced environmental sensing solution integrated into lighting controls. Building on insights gained from pilot projects across various industries, including successful trials with Rejlers and BakerHicks, Helvar Senses is now available to the broader market. By incorporating smart environmental sensing into its offering, Helvar aims to optimise building performance, sustainability, and occupant wellbeing. When it comes to enhancing building performance through lighting systems, Helvar believes that a crucial element has often been overlooked – the potential to go beyond traditional controls. Lighting systems, which already serve as one of the densest sensor networks within a building, offer a unique opportunity to provide much more than light. With the addition of environmental sensing capabilities – such as monitoring air quality, temperature, humidity, and noise levels – Helvar Senses collects actionable data that can optimise not just lighting, but overall building performance. Helvar claims that this approach offers a scalable solution that is easier to manage and maintain compared to deploying standalone sensors. By integrating environmental sensing into the existing lighting infrastructure, building operators benefit from a unified system that reduces complexity, lowers operational expenditure (OpEx), and is simpler to maintain over time. By correlating data on occupancy and environmental conditions, building operators can make more informed decisions, leading to significant energy savings and reduced carbon emissions. For instance, integrating HVAC systems with Helvar Senses helps avoid siloed operations and enables better control over energy use by aligning air quality with occupancy patterns. In response to increasingly stringent sustainability directives such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and evolving building standards like BREEAM, WELL, and LEED, Helvar Senses offers a solution that helps minimise the 'performance gap'– which is the difference between the predicted energy performance of a building and its actual energy usage. By providing real-time data, building operators can adjust systems to ensure that energy consumption is optimised according to real conditions, helping to meet both regulatory requirements and sustainability goals. Helvar Senses allows building operators to monitor key indoor environmental factors and thus better support the wellbeing of occupants. This is particularly relevant as organisations prioritise creating healthier workspaces that promote productivity and comfort. For more from Helvar, click here.

Carhartt launches Steel Rugged Flex Pants

To tackle the issue of sore knees, bruising and aching - which all hardworking tradespeople have likely suffered from over the years - Carhartt has launched a new range of Steel Rugged Flex Work Pants, each with certified knee pad products. These relaxed fit work trousers are designed to meet the rigorous demands of tradespeople, providing sturdiness, flexibility and, with the aforementioned knee pad pockets, comfort, safety and joint protection. The Steel Work Pants are constructed from Ripstop fabric, which is tough but flexible and ideal for active work environments. The Rugged Flex technology incorporated into the fabric allows for ease of movement, making it easier for tradespeople to perform tasks that require bending, squatting and stretching without restriction. One of the standout features of the trousers is the Flex Cordura fabric secure kneepad pockets, which conform to EN14404-1:2024 dimensions. Different types of commonly available knee pads will fit in the pockets, and in Spring 2025, Carhartt will also be launching its own range of accompanying knee pads designed specifically for these Steel Pants. Knee injuries are a common concern for tradespeople due to frequent kneeling, squatting, and working on hard surfaces. Knee pads provide a crucial cushion against hard surfaces, reducing the risk of impact injuries, helping to maintaining proper alignment and reducing strain on the knee joints. Consistent use of knee protection can also prevent chronic conditions such as bursitis and arthritis, which are prevalent among tradespeople who do not use proper knee protection. Each pair of trousers in the range is designed for maximum comfort. Sitting slightly below the waist, they feature a straight leg opening that fits easily over work boots. The articulated knees allow tradespeople to squat comfortably without the fabric tightening or restricting movement. The Comfort flex waistband is designed to provide a snug yet flexible fit, accommodating movement and preventing discomfort during long working hours, while the Rugged Flex Cordura fabric gusseted crotch enhances comfort and mobility, reducing the risk of tearing during strenuous activities. For more from Carhartt, click here.

JTL to host open event for electrical employers

JTL, the largest training provider for electrical and plumbing and heating apprenticeships in England and Wales, has announced an upcoming open house in which local employers can tour its Telford training centre in Oakengates. Scheduled for Tuesday 3 September from 10.30am to 3pm, the event will give local business leaders the chance to take advantage of exclusive opportunities, engage directly with JTL and discuss their business needs, helping to close the critical skills gap in the region. The event is an opportunity for electrical industry business representatives to tour JTL’s state-of-the-art centre and facilities, engage with its expert delivery team, and learn about how to best support apprentices and aspiring electricians in the region. Employers will have the opportunity to discuss their specific business requirements, receive tailored advice, and learn how JTL's apprenticeship programmes can benefit their operations. Attendees will gain insights into how they can effectively support and develop aspiring apprentices within their companies. The Telford Centre, renowned for its specialisation in high-quality electrical installer apprenticeships, will offer guided tours, and JTL tutors and training officers will provide in-depth information on the electrical apprentice journey. This is an invaluable opportunity for employers considering taking on an apprentice to get the guidance they need, JTL tells us. The Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for the Marches region, including Telford and Wrekin, identified electricians as a key shortage skill trade. JTL has appointed Stuart Navin as Delivery Team Manager for the region, who will be on hand to discuss opportunities and challenges with attendees, alongside his team of tutors and local training officers, who will be available to answer any questions. For more about this event and to register, click here. For more from JTL, click here.

Product of the Month: Q Acoustics E300A ceiling installed, voice-controlled Hi-Fi amplifier

Integrating audio systems into a home or property doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated to install. Award-winning British audio manufacturer Q Acoustics has an enviable track record of designing affordable multi and single-room audio solutions that are easy to fit and deliver class-leading audio and intuitive operation in any room in the home. The introduction of the E300A is the company’s most advanced system yet, with this ceiling installed, voice-controlled Hi-Fi amplifier ready to be the heart of any smart home ecosystem. Use the power of Amazon Alexa with other compatible and popular smart home products such as light fittings, thermostats and door entry. A simple and elegant solution, the main unit and speakers can all easily be fitted in the ceiling during building work or renovation, while it is also suited to pre-fitting into new builds or extensions. A certified fire-resistant rating of 60 minutes means E300A maintains a fire barrier without the need to fit a separate fire hood. Once installed, E300A is a discreet, zero-clutter solution to your smart home audio requirements. E300A is compatible with popular music services Amazon Music, Apple AirPlay 2, TIDAL Connect and Spotify Connect, simply select E300A as a speaker to play through on the app. Connection to the internet is available using the Ethernet socket or via Wi-Fi. Driven by a high-quality stereo amplifier, E300A delivers 2 x 25W of power at 6ohms - optimised for Q Acoustics’ wide range of in-ceiling and in-wall speakers. It can power up to four speakers in the same room or across multiple rooms. No matter which you choose, E300A can fill your home with dynamic, immersive high-fidelity sound. E300A is supplied with everything you need for installation, including speaker cables, power cable and a cutout template. For more information on the E300A and the company's range of easy install systems and speakers please visit qacoustics.co.uk.

Keynote Speaker announced for Emergency Lighting Conference

The Industry Committee for Emergency Lighting (ICEL) has announced that the keynote speaker for the ICEL Emergency Lighting Conference 2024 is Professor Ed Galea, a renowned fire safety engineering expert from the University of Greenwich in London. Professor Galea (pictured above) is the Founding Director of the Fire Safety Engineering Group (FSEG) of the University of Greenwich, where he has been a leader in Computational Fire Engineering research since 1986. As FSEG Director, he manages the research activities of 19 full-time psychologists, fire engineers, CFD specialists, computer scientists, and mathematicians. He also carries out personal research which includes interests in evacuation behaviour, evacuation modelling, fire dynamics, and CFD fire modelling. He has extensive experience in designing and running large-scale evacuation experiments and survey protocols to collect human behaviour data to assist in model development and successfully evacuated, without incident, many thousands of people from a variety of buildings, ships and aircraft. He has served on several Public Inquires as an expert in fire and evacuation, including the Grenfell Fire Inquiry and is also the author of over 350 academic and professional publications and has successfully supervised 35 PhD students. During his keynote presentation, attendees will benefit from Professor Galea sharing his comprehensive research on human behaviour during emergencies and highlighting good practices for enhancing safety and efficiency. Drawing on research from the World Trade Centre and other impactful case studies, he will explore how dynamic signage addresses issues in traditional evacuation systems, including visibility and response times. Featuring real-world examples, experiments, and evidence-based findings, the presentation will effectively demonstrate the effectiveness of dynamic signage in improving evacuation outcomes. The ICEL Emergency Lighting Conference will take place on Thursday 12 September, at the Cavendish Conference Centre in London, with registration from 8.30am and concluding at 6pm following a networking and drinks reception. Visitors will have access to experts in their respective fields presenting talks throughout the day to enhance knowledge and provide a better understanding of the latest advancements in the emergency lighting sector. Professor Ed Galea says, “I am delighted to be able to present my research to those in attendance at The ICEL Emergency Lighting Conference 2024. This event is the perfect opportunity to share more about the proven importance of dynamic signage in improving safety and evacuation outcomes. “By discussing the real-world impact that emergency lighting has, we can ensure that we improve research and processes for the future. Thank you to ICEL and The LIA for having me present at this renowned event!” Ayca Donaghy, CEO of The LIA, adds, “We are honoured to have Professor Ed Galea with us to share his valuable insights to the audience at this year’s ICEL Emergency Lighting Conference. By joining us, you will have access to his knowledge and expertise, along with strategies to drive positive change in the future. “His dedication to dynamic signage and emergency lighting will enhance your knowledge and give you the tools to form a better understanding of the latest advancements in the industry. We look forward to welcoming you all to what we are sure will be another fantastic event, following the turnout and feedback from 2023.” Register for the ICEL Emergency Lighting Conference 2024 to gain valuable insights, network with industry leaders, and stay ahead in the field of emergency lighting. To register, complete the registration form here. For more from ICEL, click here.

Industry survey highlights persistent skills gap

The latest quarterly Building Engineering Business Survey, carried out by ECA in partnership with BESA, SELECT and SNIPEF, has revealed that electrotechnical and engineering services businesses struggle to find suitably qualified candidates to fill vacancies in their organisations. Of the 125 businesses surveyed, almost half (46%) are currently looking to fill vacancies in their organisations. Of those respondents, half (47%) said that candidate pay expectations are too high, and 46% said applicants consistently lack sufficient knowledge or skills for the job. One respondent commented, “Potential electrical apprentices are encouraged to stay on at school. Youngsters coming into the industry struggle to cope with the academics of the electrical courses, and consequently leave.” Another said, “One of the biggest problems is that applicants are not as skilled as they think they are. In some cases, they are nowhere near where they should be.” Considering these findings, ECA has welcomed recent comments from Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson MP, encouraging more young people to consider apprenticeships as a viable alternative to university. ECA Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Eldred, adds, “ECA welcomes the Education Secretary’s ambition to see more young people qualify as electricians. "For her statements to have any sort of impact, her government must work closely with industry leaders, educators and business owners – to listen to electricians themselves about what to do to make this happen.” Earlier this month, ECA launched the Electrical Skills Index, which illustrates the national shortage of electricians in England. Andrew adds, “Of the parts of England where electrical apprentice starts are too low, the vast majority are now represented by Labour MPs. Key Labour Government missions such as new housing and net zero will not succeed without taking steps to address these shortfalls at both national and local levels.” For more from ECA, click here.