Largest electricity network operator issues safety reminder

Ahead of World Day for Safety and Health at Work on April 28th, UK Power Networks, the biggest electricity network operator in the UK, is urging people close to the electricity network to keep safety at the forefront of the minds. The electricity firm, which provides the power infrastructure to London, the South East, and the East, says that safety should always be the number one priority. Working closely with agriculture, haulage, construction, the emergency services and all associated trades, UK Power Networks’ public safety team engages with as many people as possible to highlight the risks of working around the network. Through partnerships, face-to-face events and communications that include magazines, social media and trade newsletters, the company continues to reach all relevant trades to make sure workers know how to access underground cable plans and safety information, and that they are aware of the risks involved. In addition to working with industries, the public safety team also works with young people highlighting the importance of knowledge and education around electricity, along with its inherent dangers. Free resources, such as flyers, stickers and even air fresheners adorned with safety information - such as “Think Before You Dig” and “Look Out, Look Up”  - are available to the public now. Rosalind Forbes from the UK Power Networks Public Safety team comments, "Since the start of 2023, the public safety team have engaged with hundreds of thousands of people. Our safety campaigns promote safe behaviours and encourage the sharing of information and knowledge, highlighting the potential risks of working around the electricity network and the importance of planning every job. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

SPARKS Learner of the Year 2024 announced

After an intense two-day final on 23-24 April at the Schneider Electric Innovation Centre in Coventry, Kian Milroy from St Helens College was ultimately named as the winner of this year's SPARKS Learner of the Year contest. Meanwhile, Jane Thorp from Suffolk New College - last year’s SPARKS female skills winner - earned the runner-up spot. Speaking on the triumph, Kian comments, "I was shocked to hear my name called out. It has really boosted my confidence. I thought I’d be quite stressed in the competition, but I just paced myself and took one step at a time. I'd say to anyone thinking of entering next year to absolutely go for it. There’s nothing to lose and it’s always a good thing to put on your CV." The competition kicked off in January, with Level 2 and 3 electrical students competing in six regional locations across the UK. The judges had a challenging task but ultimately narrowed down the impressive entries to seven finalists at the regional heats, before crowning the winner and runner-up at last week’s grand final. This year's event was supported by leading industry names, with Schneider Electric as the platinum sponsor. Additional sponsors included Electric Center, Milwaukee, IDEAL Industries, Aico, The IET, Luceco Lighting, Prysmian, Snickers Workwear, FIX Radio, and NAPIT. Zoe Tanner, Managing Director at SPARKS, comments, "The final was truly spectacular. Every competitor demonstrated exceptional skill and should all be incredibly proud of their achievements. Congratulations especially goes to Kian for winning the competition. We are eager to see what the next year holds, as the talent this year has certainly established a promising standard for the future of the electrical industry.” Jennie Tilbry, Electrician Channel Marketing Manager at Schneider Electric, adds, “We are thrilled to be supporting the next generation of electricians, as this is a key area for Schneider Electric and we fully support the work SPARKS is doing with students and apprentices across the UK.” For over a decade, the SPARKS competition has been a pivotal platform for showcasing and celebrating the emerging talent within the UK electrical sector, significantly boosting confidence among the nation’s future electrical experts. Many former competitors have continued to achieve remarkable success, highlighting the competition’s role as a valuable launchpad for aspiring professionals. For more from SPARKS, click here.

NCD to be key focus of SELECT's 'Toolbox Talks' roadshow

Electrical professionals across Scotland will receive an update on a potential safety issues at this year’s Toolbox Talks, the practical and popular events run by construction trade body, SELECT. Neutral current diversion (NCD) will be one of the key topics discussed at this year’s roadshows, which kick off next week with a tour of 12 venues across Scotland - with each delivering a wealth of free technical advice to contractors far and wide. The issue of NCD has been flagged as a hot topic across the electrical industry in recent months, and SELECT has been at the forefront of helping to raise awareness and educate the sector to counter uncertainty and confusion. Bob Cairney, Director of Technical Services at SELECT, comments, “We’re looking forward to another well-attended Toolbox Talks roadshow in 2024, and the main subject this year could not be more relevant as we progress towards the electrification of society. “NCD can be an issue for electrical contractors and constitutes an unknown risk that has huge safety implications, so we are keen to equip members with the necessary knowledge to identify and deal with it where necessary.” NCD occurs when protective measures fail and current is diverted via exposed metal fixings such as gas, water and oil pipes. Identified as a particular issue in multiple occupancy buildings, this can lead to a build-up of heat and could result in fire or explosion. In response to the issue, SELECT produced a suite of practical resources for members, apprentices and trainees earlier this year, including posters for workshops and training centres, a digital flowchart and a pocket-sized foldout designed to be kept in toolboxes. The material was distributed after close collaboration with experts from a range of industry bodies, including the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) and the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT). Bob adds, “The upcoming roadshows will build on the success of our NCD resources, which have been extremely well received by members and serve as another demonstration of our commitment to the safety and wellbeing of both electrical contractors and consumers. “Although NCD can be hard to detect, it can be tested for and correctly diagnosed, and we will continue to speak to Scotland’s electrical professionals and distribution network operators to ensure we have the latest information to share with our members.” Additions and alterations will also be on the agenda at the Toolbox Talks, with SELECT’s Technical Advisers discussing the checks, tests and notifications needed before, during and after such work to comply with industry regulations. Members will also have the chance to ask questions and discuss other matters face-to-face with the SELECT team, with each event also featuring exhibitors from a range of leading manufacturers and service providers who are now SELECT Associate Members. The Tour kicks off on Wednesday 1 May at SELECT’s HQ in The Walled Garden outside Edinburgh. The other dates and venues on the tour are: • Thursday 2 May – Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Peebles • Wednesday 8 May – Apex City Quay Hotel and Spa, Dundee • Tuesday 14 May – Fenwick Hotel, Ayrshire • Wednesday 15 May – Easterbrook Hall, Dumfries and Galloway • Wednesday 22 May – Corran Halls, Oban • Thursday 23 May – Hampden Park, Glasgow • Wednesday 29 May – Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen • Thursday 30 May – Leonardo Hotel, Inverness • Tuesday 11 June – Shetland Arts Centre, Shetland • Tuesday 18 June – Pickaquoy Centre, Orkney • Wednesday 26 June – The Machrie, Islay Members can book their places at this year’s events by clicking here. For more from SELECT, click here.

Female apprentice leads the way in renewable heating initiative

Seventeen-year old, Emily Wass, has revealed why she chose a career in renewable heating by becoming one of the UK’s first Low Carbon Heating Technician apprentices. Emily is one of ten apprentices on the inaugural course, which is being run by Vaillant and Derby College, and was motivated by her desire to ‘make a difference’ after learning about the climate crisis in her geography class at school. Emily explains, “As one of the first apprentices on the programme, I feel like I’m really doing my bit to make a positive impact both today and for future generations. It’s a great opportunity to be involved in something at the cutting edge of industry, so anyone considering embarking on a career in the sector should definitely do it. “This is especially true for other female students, because the sector needs more of us to get involved and bring our own unique perspectives to the challenges we face.” The Low Carbon Heating Technician apprenticeship scheme has been developed by MCS, the UK’s quality mark for small-scale renewable technology, in collaboration with the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, alongside a trailblazer group of heat pump installers. The apprenticeship will equip students like Emily with the skills and knowledge needed to design, install and commission low-carbon heating technologies, including heat pumps, and will ultimately support the UK Government to meet its target of installing 600,000 heat pumps a year by 2028. Laura Needham, Head of Training, at Vaillant, says, “The heating industry is developing at pace, and there’s a fantastic support network out there for those interested in pursuing a career in low-carbon heating. Crucially, we are also seeing a gender shift in the sector, which has historically been male dominant, so it is exciting to be part of these changes and seeing amazing individuals like Emily building the future workforce.” Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, adds, “It’s great to see Emily paving the way for other female apprentices to join the course and we are looking forward to seeing this becoming the norm, rather than the exception. I'd advise other young women to look at Emily as a role model, as well as our own female led workforce at MCS, to see the diverse roles that are available in the sector. “The future of home heating is low-carbon technologies such as heat pumps and solar thermal, and as we drive towards Net Zero, this apprenticeship will contribute to the skilled workforce required to deliver that change.” The Low Carbon Heating Technician apprenticeship is launching across Wales and England this year. To find out more about the apprenticeship, click here. For more from MCS, click here.

Quickwire introduces junction boxes with larger load capacities

Quickwire has introduced two new junction boxes for power connection. The new additions to the Quickwire range are two and four-way splitter junction boxes for use with 2.5mm cable, and both are rated at 24A. The company says that the new products open up a whole new dimension of capabilities for users of the Quickwire system, and the additions will allow lightning quick distribution of power while making common jobs like breaking into ring finals, adding spurs or repairing damaged cable runs much easier. Sam Garton, Manager at Quickwire, says, “Since our initial launch we've had frequent requests from our customers for a Quickwire junction box with a larger load capacity, and we’re excited to finally be able to offer them what they’ve asked for. We’re hoping that the new products more than live up to expectations.” Both products are rated to 24A, accept 2.5mm solid core twin and earth cable and comply to British standards BS EN60670-22 and BS5733-MF. Up until now, the main Quickwire product range has been rated at 16A, commonly for use in lighting circuits. Entering the realms of power connection will prove a game changer for many while facilitating a wealth of new applications, the company notes. As with all Quickwire products, they are entirely manufactured and built in the UK. The new junction boxes are available now on Quickwire's website, and from most electrical wholesalers. For more from Quickwire, click here.

WernerCo issues safety warning for working at height

Ahead of this year's World Day for Safety and Health at Work, ladder and access specialist WernerCo is urging contractors and businesses to be aware of the dangers of working at height. Taking place on Sunday, 28th April, this year’s World Day comes at an important time for occupational health in the UK, with a recent report from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealing that the number of work-related fatalities rose in 2023 from 123 to 135. Of these, falls from height contribute to the greatest number of deaths in the workplace. HSE stats reveal that fatalities linked to falls from height in the workplace increased by 30% last year; a sure sign, WernerCo believes, that more education is needed to ensure safe working at height. Dave Elson, Compliance Manager at WernerCo UK, takes up the story: “For many tradespeople, working at height is just a routine part of the job – whether that’s simply climbing a ladder or working for extended periods of time on access platforms. While working at height is nothing out of the ordinary for tradespeople, they (nor their employers) should never forget the inherent risks that come with such working practices. “The newest statistics from the HSE demonstrate why initiatives such as World Day for Safety and Health at Work are so important. As a leading ladder and platform manufacturer, we were particularly alarmed by the number of fatalities attributed to falls from height; a quarter of all work-related deaths and 8% of non-fatal workplace injuries per year. “There are a number of simple steps contractors can take to minimise the risk of falls from height. These include taking the time to undertake a proper risk assessment, ensuring they are using the right equipment for the job at hand, ensuring that they only ever use ladders intended for professional use and that they follow all the recommended protocols whilst at height. “As a manufacturer, we also understand our responsibility for ensuring the safe usage of our products. That’s why we have recently spoken out against mixing and matching components for access towers, which we manufacture via our BoSS brand. Using components by different manufacturers is against common safety protocols and can leave workers at risk of injury – or worse – should the components fail." To help further promote safe working practices among professionals, WernerCo’s team of safety experts have also developed five working at height guides, covering key topics including: • Tips for safe ladder use at height • How employers can reduce risk for personnel working at height • How to choose the best ladder for a job • Key things to consider when selecting a ladder • How to inspect your ladder before starting a job To view Werner’s ladder safety guides, visit www.wernerco.com/uk/ladder-safety. For more from Werner, click here.

Fluke introduces new innovations to aid solar installations

Fluke, a manufacturer of compact, professional electronic test and measurement tools and software, has launched its new Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500HE2 PV Analyzer and I-V Curve Tracer. The announcement means that installation and maintenance engineers working on large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays and farms can now test up to 1500V and measure high efficiency (HE) strings up to 30A continuously. Also introduced is the Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500T2 PV Analyzer and I-V Curve Tracer, which can measure 3.5MW in under an hour and handle up to 30A for strings of modules < 19% efficiency and 10A for strings of high-efficiency modules with ≥ 19% efficiency. With the Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500HE2 PV Analyzer and I-V Curve Tracer, solar energy engineers, energy consultants and field technicians have access to a unique tool that boosts on-site productivity when verifying PV performance. The device minimises the time required for each testing cycle by delivering unprecedented measurement throughput speeds. It also seeks to provide a higher return on investment than other PV testers by delivering superior levels of stability and accuracy. The Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500HE2 provides best-in-class I-V curve tracing for large-scale solar installations. Similar products can often struggle to obtain accurate readings due to high capacitance levels and are incapable of recording data continuously without overheating. Having to disconnect an I-V curve tracer until it cools down is disruptive in an environment where time is crucial but the Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500HE2 eliminates this problem because it can be used throughout the day without any interruptions. For optimal user experience, Fluke has bundled the new PV Analyzer into a number of kits. They are the first kits to combine the Solmetric product with such Fluke devices as the TiS75+ thermal camera, the 393 FC Solar Clamp Meter and 87V Industrial Multimeter, and the 1537 Insulation Resistance Tester. The company also offers a range of training packages for getting the most out of the Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500HE2 and kits while addressing the shortage of skilled workers in PV installation testing. Will White, Fluke Solar Application Specialist, says “The Solmetric name is widely respected around the world, and bringing these high-quality products into the Fluke family means we now have tools in our portfolio that can test the entire solar sector. No other I-V curve tracer in the world can offer users such impressive levels of performance, efficiency, throughput and reliability as the Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500HE2.” For more from Fluke, click here.

Advanced cable protection crafted from discarded fishing nets

An estimated one million tonnes of abandoned, lost and discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), the equivalent of 50,000 double-decker buses, litters the world’s oceans every year, endangering marine life as a major source of ocean plastic pollution. To help address dangerous marine pollution, ABB Installation Products pioneered cable protection crafted from 50% recycle-based polyamide using primarily recovered fishing nets. A sustainable alternative to conventional plastic-based systems used to protect critical power and data cables, ABB’s PMA EcoGuard PA6 RPPA conduit requires less energy and water to produce, reducing 30% of upstream Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions and 50% of net freshwater use. High-performance wire and cable protection is essential to powering electrical systems and production environments safely and reliably. PMA EcoGuard PA6 RPPA conduit, part of ABB’s EcoSolutions line of innovative and sustainable products, complies with a set of key performance indicators defined in ABB’s circularity framework and carries an external, third-party verified Lifecycle Assessment (LCA, Type III). “ABB’s commitment to circularity and transparency extends across the entire product lifecycle from initial design and sourcing to manufacturing, through use and end of life. Developing advanced products from repurposed materials, like PMA EcoGuard cable protection, meets the demands of industrial applications, while helping provide jobs, protect marine life, preserve resources, and promote a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future,” says Andrea Castella, Europe Region Leader, ABB Installation Products Division. “Expanding ABB’s PMA product range to include EcoGuard PA6 gives our customers a post-consumer, recycle-based nylon cable protection solution they can rely on to easily integrate with their machinery and systems, deliver dependable performance, and help reduce risk, waste and negative environmental impact.” To lower Scope 3 emissions and make this innovation possible, ABB partnered with Envalior, a global provider of sustainable and high-performance engineering materials. ABB leveraged its nearly 50 years of cable and conduit technology and dedicated circularity approach with Envalior’s deep materials expertise. Through this collaboration, ABB’s PMA EcoGuard cable protection products have been engineered for strength, durability, compatibility and recyclability across a range of applications, including machine building, renewable energy, telecommunications and infrastructure. ABB’s PMA EcoGuard cable protection products include Envalior’s Akulon RePurposed, a 100% recycled-based polyamide made of fishing nets recovered from coastlines. In addition to benefitting local economies and the environment, the Akulon RePurposed compound is UL2809 ECVP-certified for Ocean-Bound Plastic (OBP) content and employs production processes that result in a 70% lower carbon footprint than similar fossil-based nylon 6 materials. Made of high-grade polymer, ABB’s new PMA EcoGuard PA6 cable protection system meets the European Union’s (EU) environmental REACH regulations and the EU’s RoHS standards for hazardous waste restrictions. For nearly half a century, ABB’s PMA innovations have been used to protect data and electrical cables and wires from damage caused by strain, stress and extreme conditions in commercial and industrial applications. Designed for demanding installations, the new line includes three products: PMA EcoGuard PA6 RPPA conduit, a flexible and lightweight corrugated nylon conduit that is UV and weather-resistant; BRND fittings help prevent liquid and dust ingress and are IP66 rated; and a compact, one-piece BFHRP conduit holder that lends support and adjusts for easy installation and maintenance. PMA cable and conduit products are tested, produced and packaged in recyclable materials at ABB’s Uster, Switzerland facility and available globally. For more from ABB, click here.

JTL apprentice wins Aico Apprentice of the Year

JTL apprentice, Cole Galligan, has been named Apprentice of the Year at the AICO|HomeLINK Community Awards. Cole, who is currently in the first year of his Electrical Installation Level 3 apprenticeship at his family’s electrical company, Raylec, in Leicester, beat hundreds of apprentices to be named winner at the awards following a thorough judging process, which included a practical assessment day. The sought-after award recognises outstanding apprentices who not only have good technical skills but are also considered to be role models to others in the industry. Leicester-based Cole comments, “This recognition means the world to me and speaks volumes about the dedication and hard work I've poured into my apprenticeship journey. I’m excited for the impact this will have on my career, opening doors to new possibilities and affirming my commitment to excellence in my field. “I'm deeply grateful to the team at Raylec who have guided and encouraged me along the way - and most importantly my dad, Ray Galligan, who’s a mentor and an inspiration. I’d also like to thank my Training Officer, Russell Hodges, and the rest of the JTL team. “This award is testament to the incredible opportunities and growth apprenticeships offer when paired with some enthusiasm.” Russell Hodges, Cole’s Training Officer at JTL, which is one of the leading apprenticeship providers in England and Wales, adds, “I am delighted for Cole and what he has already achieved at such an early stage in his apprenticeship. It is a true testament to his dedication and enthusiasm for his job. He has the potential to have a great career within the industry.” Cole’s win at the AICO|HomeLINK awards follows his inclusion in eFIXX’s ‘30 under 30 - Class of 2024’ list earlier this month, which highlights some of the top young talent in the electrical industry. For more from JTL Training, click here.

Knipex enhances digital channels for ease of use

KNIPEX has enhanced its digital channels to help customers choose and find the right tools quickly and efficiently. Thanks to the launch of a ‘Where to Buy’ function on the KNIPEX website and the easy-to-use product finder on the company's app, it’s now easier than ever to get hold of the company’s professional pliers. The app, 'KNIPEX – pliers finder for professionals', is a tool advisor and detailed source of information in one handy place, making it easier to find the right tool from around 2,000 products. Users can also discover a wealth of information about the Wuppertal-based manufacturer's hand tools, or use the website and app to find the right tool for a specific application. Features include: • Product search: Find the right tool by entering a keyword or item number. • Wishlist: Save your favourite tools with the heart symbol. • Augmented Reality: Many of the tools can be virtually placed on your own workbench, rotated, zoomed in and out and viewed in detail from all sides. The 'View in AR' button appears on the detail pages of these tools. The filter function allows you to view all AR-compatible products at a glance. • Product Finder: With the product finder, you can quickly find the right tool for you. Like a question-and-answer game, after entering a few pieces of framework data, the KNIPEX app immediately shows the tools that are optimally suited for your purpose. Which material is the tool to be used on? What sizes? Are there task-specific details? According to this information, the tool finder provides an overview of the tools suitable for the specific application. An intelligent product search also immediately lists all the relevant information about the desired pliers after a keyword search or specification of the item number. The product finder, the so-called KNIPEXplorer, is the right place for anyone looking for a specific product for an application. “You may be an electrician and discover you need the 13 76 200 ME forged wire stripper, a five-in-one tool that combines cutting, stripping, twisting, deburring and gripping capabilities in a single, robust tool,” explains David Barnes, KNIPEX UK Marketing Manager. “Or as a plumber, the KNIPEX 90 25 25 pipe cutter could be the one you need to cut through pipes up to 26mm with up to 60% less effort compared to traditional cutting methods. You can save all KNIPEX tools of interest to them in an integrated wish list in their personal user account." Once users have found the tool they need, KNIPEX website visitors can now click on the 'Buy Now' button to find official stockists and buy their new tool quickly and easily either online or via a local tool supplier. This useful function will also be added to the app in the very near future. The app is now available free of charge in the Apple App Store and on Google Play. For more from KNIPEX, click here.