Salko opens new electrical plant hire depot in Balkholme

Mechanical and electrical engineering specialist Salko UK has announced the opening of its new electric plant hire warehouse in Balkholme, near Goole. The company says the investment marks a step forward in its commitment to sustainability and innovation across multiple sectors and disciplines. Brett Dainton, previously Technical Engineer at Clarks Vehicle Conversions in Doncaster, has been appointed Stores Manager for the depot, managing the facility’s inventory alongside Pete Myers, Facilities Supervisor. The new bricks and mortar facility will enable M&E contractors to hire sustainable lighting and electrical plant equipment, including small transformers, extension leads, and fully electric LED lighting systems. All products are 100% electric, aiming to deliver improved reliability, safety, and energy efficiency whilst reducing environmental impact. As well as electrical plant hire, the depot is equipped with specialist welding tools and facilities. Clients can utilise the welding expertise on site with Salko’s team. Modernising electrical hire options Georgina Wilkinson, Chief Financial Officer at Salko UK, explains, “Customer feedback has been central to this investment. "While electrification of the vehicle fleet has been a big priority, more widely, the market has been calling for more modern, efficient electric plant hire options, and we’ve listened. “Our new Balkholme site will provide M&E specialists with easy access to the latest equipment - all designed to reduce power consumption and support our clients’ decarbonisation goals.” Located close to the high-profile industrial sites on the Yorkshire coastline, Salko says it has invested significantly in brand-new electrical packages, ensuring every item undergoes rigorous in-house testing and quality checks before being made available to customers. The company also notes that the expansion supports its wider sustainability strategy, which includes reducing emissions across sector operations and investing in renewable energy infrastructure. Salko is also planning additional upgrades at its offices, including solar panels and electric vehicle charging facilities. Georgina continues, “We see plant hire as a real opportunity for growth and, by providing reliable, sustainable and cost-effective hire options, we’re helping customers meet modern efficiency standards without increasing project costs.” For more from Salko UK, click here.

'Festive pressures taking a toll on tradespeople’s mental health'

As Christmas approaches, new research has revealed that a worrying number of tradespeople in the UK are dealing with stress, burnout, and anxiety. Many report that the festive period is the toughest time of year for their mental health. According to the latest industry data in UK manufacturer Jackson Woodturners's recently launched UK State of The Trades Report, over a third (37%) admit feeling more stressed at this time of year. Whilst over a quarter (27%) report higher levels of burnout. This is concerning given a high proportion already deal with mental health challenges throughout the rest of the year. Additionally, nearly a quarter (23%) feel pressured to take on extra work to make more money for the festive season, a pattern that often leads to exhaustion and longer hours. Lucie Levesley, Director at Jackson Woodturners, comments, “The end of the year can be especially tough for tradespeople. They’re juggling a heavy workload, tight deadlines, and customers eager to get jobs finished before Christmas, all while managing their own personal and business challenges. "It’s easy for mental health to take a back seat, but it’s vital people take a step back, rest, and reach out if they’re struggling.” Nigel Sanderson, Director and Lived Experience Expert at Men’s Minds Matter, adds, “Generally, it's a difficult time of year for everyone. Grey days and harsh weather affects us, working outdoors or in unlit, unheated spaces can make things even tougher. "Before joining Men’s Minds Matter, I worked as a Joiner myself for a few years and remember this only too well! Coupled with this are financial pressures and unrealistic expectations that everything has to be perfect for Christmas.” Widespread mental health strain across the trades The research highlights how widespread mental strain has become across the trades. Nine in ten tradespeople have felt stressed at some point this year, with many also reporting burnout, anxiety, and loneliness. A quarter experience anxiety weekly and two thirds have battled symptoms of depression during 2025. This echoes national findings showing that those working in the construction space are four times more likely to suffer mental health issues than the UK average, according to charity Mates in Mind. Despite all this, nearly 70% of tradespeople say they’ve never accessed therapy or formal mental health support. Men make up the majority of the UK’s skilled trades workforce (women are only around 2-4% of this and only 15% across the broader sector, according to ElecTraining), so despite these concerning figures in the report, it’s unsurprising that poor mental health is so prevalent in the industry. Three out of four deaths by suicide are male (76%), with suicide being the biggest killer of men in the UK. This is at a rate of 14 men per day and, whilst gendered, these deaths affect everyone as they are not just men; they are husbands, partners, dads, brothers, sons, and more, leaving families wondering "why did this happen." Guidance and support Dr Luke Sullivan, Clinical Psychologist and founder at Men’s Minds Matter, has shared guidance on how all tradespeople can look after their mental health during the festive season: 1. Learn to spot early warning signals: Take the time to know yourself and notice any physical and emotional cues that might be a result of stress. Irritability, tension, fatigue, difficulty switching off are all common indicators to act and make changes. They’re your body telling you something is off, not signs of weakness. 2. Assess your load, not your limits: Stress often reflects excessive demands, not a lack of resilience. Examine what's on your plate both personally and professionally and adjust the weight before questioning your capacity or capabilities. It’s a good idea to review your new year plans now, too, so you’re not struggling into the new year. 3. Redistribute, don’t internalise: You don’t have to carry everything alone. Delegate, share, or ask for help in finding another way. Whether that’s at work, at home, or with friends. Even small redistributions of responsibility or calling in additional resources can release a lot of pressure. 4. Protect your boundaries: Protect your personal time, family time, and rest. Boundaries are essential; they’re not selfish, they’re protective. Make space for the things that replenish you and treat that time as non-negotiable. Deciding what you are willing to give creates boundaries and helps you recognise when you have crossed them. 5. Talk before you tip: You don’t have to wait until things fall apart to speak up. Talk early and openly about how you’re feeling. Sharing takes the weight off and gives others the chance to step in before the load becomes too heavy. If you’re not sure where to start, visit the Men's Minds Matter website for self-help resources, guides, and training opportunities. You may also find support through organisations like Band of Builders.

Zumtobel broadens lighting range for diverse applications

Zumtobel, an Austrian company specialising in professional indoor and outdoor lighting, has expanded its lighting portfolio with new acoustic elements, adaptive safety lighting, cleanroom-compatible luminaires, and art-focused spotlights. The additions are intended to address acoustic comfort, safety, hygiene, and visual presentation across a wide range of environments. Acoustic considerations In offices, classrooms, healthcare settings, and hospitality spaces, hard surfaces and high ceilings can increase noise levels. Zumtobel’s new acoustic elements are designed to reduce reverberation and create calmer conditions. The range includes three lines - Essentials, Advanced, and Premium - all meeting fire classification B-s1, d0 under EN 13501-1. Acoustic accessories for SLOTLIGHT round acoustic, LIGHT FIELDS III acoustic, and PANOS III R 200 acoustic also extend sound absorption to existing luminaires. Safety lighting for complex spaces SMARTSIGN has been added to Zumtobel’s safety lighting range as a directional emergency exit sign with dynamic escape route guidance. It uses a Full-HD display with programmable content and includes ISO 7010 symbols, with optional multilingual text. The unit provides a viewing distance of 38 metres and luminance above 500 candela per square metre, in line with DIN 4844. Each SMARTSIGN can be configured via the PROset app and operates with the nBox group battery system, which supports areas up to 1,600m². CROSSIGN PRO is designed for hybrid buildings where office and production spaces intersect. Its slim housing and transparent light guide allow it to blend into architectural lighting schemes. Available in three viewing distances - 11 metres, 24 metres, and 32 metres - the family also includes optional ERI spots, enabling the unit to function as both a safety sign and emergency luminaire. Cleanroom and specialist lighting For hospitals, laboratories, and cleanroom production, the CLEAN II supreme range provides luminaires developed for sterile environments. The units offer multiple mounting options, compact formats, and simplified installation and maintenance. A key feature is the multi-layer micro-pyramidal optic, which directs and refracts light precisely. The CLEAN II supreme essential variant uses backlight technology to allow maintenance without removing the light engine, providing direct access to components when the cover is opened. Lighting for galleries and adaptable track systems Zumtobel’s VIVO II art spotlight family is intended for museums and galleries, delivering high colour accuracy and controlled, glare-free illumination. The VIVO II framer provides adjustable beam angles for precise lighting of framed artworks and can be reconfigured for changing displays. Zumtobel TRACKS offers adaptable track systems suitable for a variety of applications. TRACK basic is a three-phase system designed for functional, cost-sensitive retail environments. TRACK advanced provides six conductors, full DALI functionality, and integration of emergency lighting and power, making it suitable for architectural projects, museums, offices, and educational spaces. For more from Zumtobel, click here.

Custom consumer unit branding with Elucian’s laser etching

Launched by the Scolmore Group in 2021, Elucian is a trusted name in circuit protection and has enhanced its product offering with a bespoke, in-house laser etching service. This service is suitable for single phase consumer units in domestic and commercial applications that require personalised branding for electrical systems, enabling businesses to reinforce their brand identity and add a touch of professionalism to their electrical installations. For over four years, Elucian has utilised state-of-the-art laser technology to create intricately detailed designs on the covers of consumer units - guaranteeing long-lasting clarity and durability. Service details Once the logo is supplied to the Elucian team, a digital file is then created and uploaded onto the machine ready for etching. As well as producing precise, permanent etching of logos and branding, this service can also etch a variety of custom designs. This can include QR codes, technical specifications, and circuit identification. This specialised service stands out as one of the few in the market offering fully customised consumer units, etched in-house at Scolmore Group’s headquarters. Since the launch of Elucian, close to 300 bespoke laser etching jobs have been delivered, each tailored to required specifications, proudly featuring company logos and branding. To date, this has included the etching of almost 10,000 consumer unit boards, demonstrating the strong and growing demand for customised, premium-quality solutions. The system’s flexibility accommodates both high-volume orders and tailored projects, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking distinctive branding or design integration. The bespoke laser etching service is also available for the full range of Click Scolmore’s GridPro modules, which can be customised to suit the specific requirements of any project. All GridPro module finishes can be etched, offering a wide range of options for customers to create a personalised and professional installation. You can enquire about Elucian’s bespoke laser etching service by contacting local Area Sales Managers. For more information on Elucian’s consumer units and circuit protection devices, visit the company's website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Elucian, click here.

NAPIT welcomes extra tech included in Boiler Upgrade Scheme

NAPIT, a company developing green skills and compliance, has welcomed an announcement by the Government this week that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is being expanded to offer a £2,500 discount off the cost of installing an air-to-air heat pump, which can provide both heat in winter and cooling in summer. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme currently offers grants of £7,500 off the cost of installing an air source or ground source heat pump, which can keep homes warm during the winter. Low-carbon technology for UK households Stephen Melton, NAPIT Commercial & Compliance Director, comments, “We welcome this announcement which will mean householders can benefit from help with installing additional low-carbon technologies. “It will help provide alternative solutions to the varying types of housing stock across the UK as we all move towards the electrification of heating. “NAPIT members are at the forefront of this transition so this latest move could add further benefits to their growth and expansion. "Hopefully the Boiler Upgrade Scheme will continue and we look forward to greater clarity and certainty around the scheme, which is something our members, UK homeowners, and the wider industry need.” For more from NAPIT, click here.

Schneider launches ‘Build My Business' training for electricians

Energy management and industrial automation company Schneider Electric has unveiled ‘Build My Business’, a new training programme designed to help electricians start, manage, and grow their own businesses. This flexible eLearning series provides skills and practical guidance for both newcomers and experienced professionals in the electrical industry. The 'Build My Business' programme features five modules covering everything from business planning and financial management to digital marketing, customer relations, and leadership. Optional modules Electricians can choose the modules most relevant to their needs and business including: · Start My Business — Key considerations for launching a business, including marketing, budgeting, and insurance · Finance My Business — Practical advice on budgeting, pricing, cost control, and using online tools for profitability · Promote My Business — Strategies for building an effective online presence, leveraging websites, SEO, social media, and customer reviews · Run and Grow My Business — Advice on customer service, adopting new technologies, and staying ahead of industry trends · Lead My Business — Guidance on team management, leadership skills, and motivating staff for long-term success David Williams, Schneider Electric’s Vice President for Transactional Business, explains, “Our Build My Business training combines presentations, videos, templates, and expert suggestions to support electricians at every stage of their business journey. "Schneider Electric's goal is to equip electricians with the knowledge and confidence to thrive in a competitive market.” For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Metway enters employee ownership

Metway Electrical Industries, a UK manufacturer of electrical connectors and lighting control systems, has announced the successful transition of its business into an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), effective 1 November 2025. The move marks a defining moment in the company’s history, seeking to ensure Metway’s continued independence and "reinforcing [its] commitment to long-term stability and customer service." A shift of ownership The EOT structure means Metway’s employees now hold a controlling interest in the business, aligning ownership directly with the people responsible for its operations. Metway says the transition was planned to preserve its core values of "quality, innovation, and reliability". Managing Director Steve Chessell comments, “Our people are at the heart of Metway’s success and moving to employee ownership reflects that reality. "This transition safeguards Metway’s independence, strengthens our collaborative culture, and ensures that our customers and partners continue to receive the consistent service and support they expect from us.” Metway continues to design, manufacture, and supply a range of electrical connectors, lighting connection systems, and lighting controls from its Brighton headquarters.

BSI publishes revised standard on emergency lighting systems

Revised guidance on the design, installation, and application of emergency lighting systems has been published by BSI, the UK’s national standards body. The updated, fully revised standard, Emergency lighting – Part 1: Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises (BS 5266-1:2025), aims to promote wider understanding of the different types of emergency lighting systems that may be used and to offer clear guidance on their correct application in different types of buildings. It is intended to support the provision of fire safety across the UK. Updates to the standard The full revision of BS 5266-1, last revised in 2016, expands the scope to cover local area lighting and standby lighting, in addition to emergency escape lighting, providing a more comprehensive framework for modern building safety needs. The standard recognises that, beyond ensuring safe and unobstructed escape routes at all times, emergency lighting serves additional key purposes, including enabling the immediate identification and use of fire alarm call points and firefighting equipment, as well as reducing the risk of panic in lifts or other enclosed or high-occupancy areas. Recommendations within the standard encourage a uniform, consistent approach to keeping people safe in the event of interruption to normal lighting, taking into account the hazard level and degree of familiarity with the premises. Anthony Burd, Director of Built Environment, BSI, comments, “The revised standard on emergency lighting, BS 5266-1:2025, marks a significant advancement in building safety, expanding its guidance to cover emergency escape, local area, and standby lighting. "This updated, modernised standard should help organisations enhance safety, demonstrate best practice, and ensure consistent protection for people across all types of premises. We are pleased to publish it as part of BSI’s continued commitment to public safety and resilience in the built environment. “By adopting this standard, organisations will have the opportunity to ensure their emergency lighting systems meet the latest best practice guidance, support compliance with safety regulations, and reinforce public trust in the safety of the built environment.”

SELECT honours ECA with Lifetime Achievement Award

The Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) has been recognised for more than a century of "exceptional service to the electrotechnical industry" after receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from SELECT at its 125th Anniversary Grand Ball. Scotland’s largest construction trade association used its celebrations to reward the ECA for its "unwavering commitment to the industry since 1901", one year after its counterpart was formed north of the border. The award ceremony The award was presented in front of 300 guests at the Glasgow Marriott Hotel on Friday 14 November, at an event hosted by TV and radio personality Fred MacAulay and sponsored by the Scolmore Group. Introducing the winner, SELECT President Mike Stark said, “As well as being a great supporter and ally of SELECT over the years, tonight’s winner has worked tirelessly to improve standards in the electrical industry. “They are patient, knowledgeable, always eager to help, and go the extra mile to ensure that electrical contractors of all sizes have the help and support they need to carry out their work safely and to the highest standards. “SELECT is proud to call our winner a close friend, and a younger sister. So I am delighted to present the 2025 SELECT Lifetime Achievement Award to the ECA.” The award was accepted on behalf of the ECA by Steve Bratt, Group CEO, and Ruth Devine MBE, who is the body’s President. Industry reactions Steve Bratt, comments, “Everyone likes a prize, especially from an elder sibling, but we’ve just won a prize from an organisation that is 125 years old and has done amazing things for the Scottish electrical contracting industry and knows us very well. So, the fact they have chosen us for this award is a real honour. “On behalf of our President, all the staff at ECA, and all of our members, a real big thank you for such an honour and we look forward to working with you for another 125 years.” Ruth Devine adds, “This award is particularly meaningful because it acknowledges the long-standing collaboration between our two associations. Together, we have championed apprenticeships, strengthened competence, and supported businesses to deliver safe, high-quality work in a fast-changing industry. "On behalf of our members, staff, and volunteers, I want to thank SELECT for this exceptional recognition.” SELECT Managing Director Alan Wilson, notes, “The ECA has been a steadfast partner and a vital force for good in our industry for more than 120 years. Its expertise, leadership, and commitment to raising standards have benefited not just its members but the entire electrotechnical sector across the UK. “We are delighted to honour its remarkable contribution with our Lifetime Achievement Award. It is an accolade richly deserved.” The 125th Anniversary Grand Ball gathered SELECT members, political leaders, senior decision-makers, and industry partners to celebrate the founding of the world’s first electrical trade association. The event also recognised the ongoing support of sponsors and associate members including CEF, Edmundson Electrical, Wylex, Morton Fraser MacRoberts, Schneider Electric, OCS, and ECIS. The Lifetime Achievement Award remains SELECT’s most prestigious honour, previously presented to figures including Past Presidents John Noble and Alick Smith, and industry payment specialist Len Bunton. For more from SELECT, click here.

Weev to roll out EV charging across Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, Liz Kimmins (Minister for Infrastructure) and Niree McMorris (The Deputy Mayor of Derry and Strabane Alderman) have welcomed the appointment of a contractor to deliver over 250 EV charge points across nine local councils. The councils include Derry City and Strabane District Council, and the roll-out forms part of the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles’ (OZEV) On Street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). Local EV infrastructure company Weev will supply, connect, and operate the charge points, which will be located in a mix of on-street and council-owned car park locations, notably within residential areas that lack driveways / off-street parking. ORCS is led by Derry City & Strabane District Council, the Department for Infrastructure, and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. The ORCS project is an investment of over £2 million part funded by OZEV, the Department for Infrastructure, and Weev. Industry reactions Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has welcomed the contractor announcement, stating, “I am delighted my Department has been able assist in the funding of over 250 charge points, which will widen the electric vehicle charge point offering across nine local council areas for the public and local businesses. "This shows my ongoing commitment for my Department to support, where possible, the expansion of EV charging facilities across the north, as the adoption of electric vehicles gathers pace as we move towards net zero.” Concurring, Ald. Niree says, “Improving access to charge points is another positive step in progressing the move towards sustainable, cleaner travel. "It will make electric charging more accessible and convenient for users and encourage the switch to electric vehicles. “Council has been taking an active role as lead of the consortium and, along with our partner councils, we will continue to lobby for more support for the improvement of local EV infrastructure.” The chosen locations for the EV charge points are within residential areas in a range of towns and cities, with work set to commence in the coming weeks. Thomas O'Hagan, Weev CCO, comments, “We are delighted to be awarded the ORCS Contract and play our part in growing Northern Ireland’s EV infrastructure. "The growth of EV charger installations and EV car uptake is vital if we are going to reach the net-zero targets set by the Government. "Initiatives like ORCS, driven by local councils will have a huge role to play.” Mark McCall, Chair of Electric Vehicle Association Northern Ireland, adds, “Weev secured the top spot as the most reliable EV charger in our annual EVANI survey, where we polled electric vehicle owners across Northern Ireland for their opinion. "It was a well-deserved accolade for Weev to be ranked number one against a growing number of Charge Point Operators, as their dedication to the service doesn’t go unnoticed.”