Knightsbridge’s SpektroLED EVO expands downlight options

The new SpektroLED EVO downlight from Knightsbridge is an advanced evolution of the company’s SpektroLED. Building on the versatility and flexibility of its predecessor, EVO offers selectable wattages, colour temperatures and six interchangeable bezel finishes and comes in three versions: fixed, tilt and smart.   When it was launched, Knightsbridge says that the configurable SpektroLED downlight represented a leap forward in versatility and choice for lighting projects; offering unparalleled choice in performance and style in one package, doing away with the need to specify multiple LED lamp types.    Expanding these permutations of wattage, colour temperature and bezel choice, the ultra-low profile SpektroLED EVO Fixed, Tilt and Smart offers a 108-downlights-in-one range solution.   Depending on the required illumination, either 5W (up to 465 lumens) or 7W (up to 795 lumens) can be pre-selected via a switch on the lamp body. Once chosen, there are four CCTs available - 2700K, 3000K, 4000K and 6000K - and the desired colour temperature can be selected by a sliding switch. The LED beam angle is 60° and the tilt variant can be adjusted to 90° as required.   Further customisation is possible through the bezel options that allow the lamp to complement or contrast with a room’s decor or colourways. The bezels come in a choice of six stylish finishes, from popular white and matt black to brushed and polished chrome, and brushed and antique brass.   The downlights are fire-rated for solid timber, web joist and I-joist installation for up to 90 minutes depending on the material and are IC-rated for retention of efficiency of mineral wool insulation in the ceiling void. With an IP65 rating from below, EVO is suitable for use in bathrooms and wet rooms.   As implied in its name, the smart EVO can be controlled for colour, temperature and on/off using Knightsbridge’s proprietary SmartKnight app.      Installation, as with all Knightsbridge products, is straightforward. Each unit, which has a low-profile design, features cleverly engineered first and second-fix power connectors with loop-in/loop-out terminals that can be terminated and hidden away while other works are finished.    The downlights can then be simply plugged in to complete the installation after decoration, avoiding the issue of paint-damaged bezels. The connectors also allow the luminaire to be removed for maintenance or even re-programming by simply unplugging them. The bezels for SpektroLED EVO Fixed are magnetic, making installation and customisation even speedier.   For retail, commercial and hospitality applications, a SpektroLED EVO emergency kit is available for maintained and non-maintained use and offers a three-hour emergency duration.   Once installed, SpektroLED EVO will give 50,000 hours of rated LED life and can be used with leading and trailing-edge dimmers should the need arise, although compatibility should be verified beforehand. A five-year warranty guarantees peace of mind.   To read more on Knightsbridge, click here.

Strike a light with Jefferson Tools’ LED lighting products

Jefferson Tools has introduced versatile and reliable LED lighting solutions for electricians. Electrical cabinets and consumer units, though vital, often find themselves hidden away in dark and gloomy cupboards or under the stairs. Unfortunately, without good lighting electricians’ lives are made all the harder, not to mention causing eye strain, headaches, drowsiness and reduced concentration. The introduction of LED lighting into the electrical field has changed the way professionals approach their work. With its clear bright white light, superior energy efficiency, longevity and robustness, LED lighting offers electricians the performance and reliability needed in the often unpredictable environment. From dimly lit interiors to expansive, shadow-cast job sites, Jefferson Tools' LED solutions ensure that electricians can work with confidence backed by the illumination needed to execute tasks. Among its offerings, the Dual COB LED spotlight with floodlight function is well suited to comprehensive area illumination, ideal for both outdoor work and detailed inspections within dimly lit enclosures. Equipped with a COB LED bulb and a 220° rotating floodlight, this tool provides versatile lighting options, complemented by its durability (IPX-4 rating) and multifunctionality, including power bank capabilities. For electricians needing focused lighting for inspection tasks, Jefferson Tools’ pocket-sized 300 lumen work light and the 1,000 Lumens COB LED rechargeable inspection lamp are tailored for excellence. These compact and powerful solutions are designed for illuminating confined spaces, offering easy portability and long-lasting use, making them perfect for detailed evaluations of electrical cupboards and other enclosed areas. Additionally, the 800 lumen work light with a magnetic charging base stands ready to support the most demanding tasks. With its high-quality LED, adjustable tilt and robust construction (rated at IK07 for impact and IP65 for ingress protection), it is the go-to tool for electricians seeking reliable, heavy-duty lighting solutions, says Jefferson Tools. In the quest for the perfect lighting, electricians must weigh several factors. The selection process hinges on finding lighting that not only offers adjustable brightness and beam angles but embodies portability and flexibility to conquer challenging spaces. Durability and resistance to the elements are important, ensuring that each lighting solution can withstand the trials of the job. Furthermore, considerations around battery life and power options are critical, guaranteeing uninterrupted illumination that keeps up with the needs of electricians. To read more on Jefferson Tools, click here.

Humax enters the UK EV charging market with new home charger

Humax has entered the EV charging market in the UK. Best known for its digital TV recorders and smart home devices, South Korea-based Humax has a 35-year heritage in manufacturing and the automotive mobility sector, with an extensive portfolio covering smart parking, fleet management, shared mobility and electric vehicle charging – serving a global customer base. The company is extending its smart EV charging solutions into Europe with an initial launch in the UK, backed by a comprehensive customer support infrastructure. The first product to be announced is the Humax ECORD 7.4kW Home Charger. It is designed for easy installation - either wall-mounted or on a pedestal - and the EV charger is constructed for durability and combines a subtle and sleek form factor with simple operation. Charging sessions can be controlled manually or via the Humax ECORD app. Installation and support, due to be announced later this month, will be provided by a dedicated partner, who will deliver a seamless survey, installation and post-installation support service to Humax customers across the UK. Clients buying a Humax ECORD charger will be able to select a home installation service as part of the online purchasing journey on the Humax ECORD website. Straightforward to operate, users can register their device using a QR code and complete the set-up using the Humax ECORD Mobile App. Charging can be activated using the RFID card swipe, plug and play or via the app. The status of the charging session is clearly shown on the front LED indicator and in the app. Energy consumption costs can be reduced by setting a preferred charging schedule. The Humax ECORD app will learn the driver’s usage patterns and track their charging history. If the charger has more than one user, multiple profiles can be created in the app, allowing them to share usage history and be notified when the charge point is ready. The Humax ECORD is also solar compatible, allowing excess solar energy from home PV systems to charge the owner’s vehicle. The ‘Solar’ mode allows owners to charge from the electricity generated from their PV panels, whereas the ‘Solar and Grid’ mode enables users to make the most of any solar energy while topping up from the grid to ensure the vehicle is fully charged when needed. Furthermore, the ECORD charger comes with a pre-set feature for charging outside peak hours, enabling owners to achieve better supply balance while benefitting from lower energy rates. ECORD is also OZEV approved, allowing UK customers to apply for a £350 grant towards installation, where applicable.

SELECT celebrates International Women’s Day with new film

SELECT is preparing to mark International Women’s Day (IWD) with a new film that celebrates the work of a member firm, which it says is ''a shining light of equality and inclusion.'' The new video from the campaigning body showcases the achievements of Orkney-based RS Merriman, which employs four female professionals in the front line of the electrical industry. Entitled Inspiring Inclusion and available to view on SELECT’s YouTube channel, the film shows the women discussing why they decided to get into the sector and hears how much being a part of the electrical future means to them. Qualified electrician and former Scottish Apprentice of the Year, Melanie Smith, reveals why she became involved in a traditionally male-dominated industry and says, “I grew up on a farm and I wanted to be doing something outdoors and something with my hands. I just love that every day is different, going outside and doing different things.” Charlotte Jarvis, a fellow spark, also explains her reasons for taking up the tools and adds, “I also wanted a job that was out and about. I get to see all of Orkney this way, doing trips to the isles and everything, instead of being stuck in an office. I like actually making something instead of just sending emails all day.” Founded just after the war, RS Merriman was instrumental in bringing electricity to the Orkneys, installing street lighting and domestic systems and becoming a key player when oil came to the remote area in the 1980s. The film shows how the established firm is now pioneering equality of opportunity, with apprentice Shaynee Moar stating, “I’m quite a practical person. I like problem solving and fiddly things, so I thought that maybe being an electrician would suit me. I really, really enjoy it.” Sadie Merriman also discusses her own career journey, which has seen her rise from electrician to Contracts Manager, and says, “I had a bit of an epiphany one day and thought, ‘Why don’t I do an apprenticeship with the family company?’ For a number of years, I was the only female in the electrical trade in Orkney.” Alan Wilson, SELECT Managing Director, says, “The electrical sector in Scotland is committed to fair work for all, and we applaud firms such as RS Merriman who are taking positive steps in the right direction and striving to become a shining light of quality and inclusion. “However, we all have a part to play and the wider industry would do well to follow its example and aim towards a working environment in which it is unremarkable that women play a full and professional part.” Fiona Harper, Director of Employment and Skills at SELECT and The Secretary of the SJIB, says, “As well as celebrating the role of women, this video also emphasises the importance of training and how the industry is getting our apprentices ready to take on the challenges of renewable installation and the transition to net zero.'' To read more on SELECT, click here.

Ovia continues to expand with new regional sales managers

Ovia has announced two new appointments to the sales team as the company continues to grow. Kevin Durkin has been promoted from his former position as Area Sales Manager with Click Scolmore to take up the role of Regional Sales Manager for Ovia, covering Scotland and Northern England. Also joining the Ovia team as Regional Sales Manager for the south of England is Andrew Macdonald. They join the company as the fifth Ovia catalogue is being launched and a raft of new products have just hit the market. In their new roles, Kevin and Andrew will be responsible for managing the activity of the Area Sales Managers in their respective regions against the strategic requirements of the business. They will help develop and maintain strong working relationships with key personnel in the relevant customer groups to ensure that all sales opportunities are maximised and that the breadth of the growing range of Ovia lighting solutions is promoted. Kevin comes to his new role having spent 12 years in the industry working in a sales role for some of the sector’s brands. Over the past eight years, he has worked with Scolmore Group across Click, ESP and Unicrimp. Having started as a Business Development Manager for Scotland, he then took up the position of Areas Sales Manager before his move to Ovia. Andrew joins the Ovia team with more than 16 years of experience within a sales environment, including almost 10 years with several key operators in the lighting sector. To read more on Ovia, click here.

The van modifications that increase insurance highlighted

Van drivers have been told the five reasons why their insurance premiums may be going up. Experts at Lease Van have named the reasons why tradespeople and van drivers may be paying extra on their insurance bills. Insurance providers must be made aware of any modifications made to vans as any changes made to the vehicle could increase premiums. Changing steel wheels into alloys can be beneficial by reducing the weight of the van, but insurance costs may increase because of wheel modification. Van drivers who have specialised equipment inside, for personal or commercial use, should ensure providers are aware of the installations. Tinted windows may increase security levels by deterring criminals but are classed as a modification so this could also be the reason insurance costs have risen. Tim Alcock from Lease Van says, “Van drivers should be aware of the modifications they’re making to their vehicles which could mean insurance prices are actually increasing. “Even if the changes seem minor and beneficial to your van, such as changing the steel wheel to alloys, insurance providers must be made aware of any modifications. It’s important to weigh up the potential increased cost of your insurance compared to the cost of any modifications.’’ Five van modifications which could be increasing insurance: Alloy wheels  Alloy wheels can be a benefit to van drivers as the weight of the vehicle can be reduced as the wheels are stronger compared to typical steel wheels. However, any changes to wheels may be a reason for insurance bills increasing. Tinted windows  Some van drivers may want to tint windows to prevent criminals from looking inside the vehicle. Tinted windows are classed as a modification so must be declared to your insurance company. Make sure any changes to the windows are legal and can let enough light through. Specialised equipment Adding new features for tools or installing specialist equipment into your van could mean the insurance premiums go up. Equipment such as refrigeration, dog grooming, jet washing or catering equipment must all be made aware to the provider. Adding or removing seats and storage  Any changes to the interior of your van must be reported to the insurance company as it could affect premiums. Some providers may lower insurance costs if racking is installed, as it may be seen as safer due to heavy tools and equipment being stored away safely. Roof racks  Installing roof racks to use as efficient storage, especially when carrying large and awkward-shaped items, is useful for van drivers. It is important to ensure your provider is aware of the roof racks as the insurance could go up.

Schneider Electric introduces the MasterPacT MTZ Active

Schneider Electric has unveiled the MasterPacT MTZ Active, a new low voltage air circuit breaker designed to set new benchmarks for efficiency and sustainability at Data Centre World, London. Experts at Gartner estimate that data centre downtimes could set businesses back by upwards of $300,000 per hour, so the business case for investing in innovation and technology to ensure data centre resiliency has never been stronger. In a world increasingly driven by electricity and digitisation, the MasterPacT MTZ Active enables data centre customers to respond to complex challenges, including 24/7 uptime demands, spiralling energy costs, and urgent calls for sustainable practices. “The new MasterPacT MTZ Active makes the invisible visible for critical industry operators to see and track their energy use in real-time,” says Ionut Farcas, Senior Vice President, Europe and International Hub, Power Products Division at Schneider Electric. “By making such information available at a glance, data centre operators are empowered to make better energy management decisions, reduce consumption, eliminate waste and improve efficiency.” MasterPacT MTZ Active The first MasterPacT product was launched 35 years ago and has ever since been synonymous with circuit breaker innovation and reliability. Now, with smart and connected power distribution becoming a must-have, Schneider Electric says that it is revolutionising the MasterPacT range to advance circuit breaker performance in the data centre. The new MasterPacT MTZ Active’s control unit speeds mitigation with an industry-first QR code solution. Data centre operators can scan the code to access comprehensive instructions to optimise decision-making on the most effective restorative actions to take, in order to reduce data centre downtime. “There’s no need to waste time searching through a 200-page document,” Ionut says. “In an overload event, you are quickly instructed to redistribute the loads more evenly between circuits.” MasterPacT MTZ Active, according to the company, sets new benchmarks for safety in the data centre. An Energy Reduction Maintenance Setting (ERMS) guards maintenance personnel against arc flash hazards, and the control unit’s intuitive design facilitates the setting of all protection functions, including current, time delays and alarms. To read more on Schneider Electric, click here.

The women from six different decades working across MCS

MCS, the UK’s quality assurance scheme for small-scale renewable energy and heating, is celebrating the contribution of its 68% female workforce ahead of International Women’s Day. In an undeniably male-dominated sector, MCS says it is a leading employer for women, with more than two in three of its team being women. Lisa Cooke, Operations and Communications Director at MCS, says, “Our sector is undeniably male-dominated, but we’re proud to have a workforce that is 68% female, putting us at the forefront of changing this narrative, by inspiring inclusion both within our business and the wider sector. Our CEO Ian is a real champion of cultivating female talent and recognising the contribution that they make. “MCS inspires inclusion by promoting equal opportunities and fostering a diverse and supportive environment. Our leadership team demonstrates a clear commitment to drive an inclusive environment for all employees, and we've also worked hard to develop a range of benefits that support work-life balance, for example, I work flexibly around my son. The women from across six different decades who work within the MCS team are Sheila Burns, Senior Helpdesk Analyst; Carol Davies, Helpdesk Analyst; Vicky Johnson, Programme Manager; Lisa Cooke, Operations and Communications Director; Tara France, Communications Assistant; and Mia Charlton, Business Administration Apprentice. MCS spoke to them to find out more. What is your role at MCS? Sheila: As Senior Helpdesk Analyst, I support the rest of the Helpdesk team with calls, systems and everything in between. Carol: I am a Helpdesk Analyst and assist contractors and consumers with all types of certification queries. Vicky: I am the Programme Manager at MCS, helping lead the transformational changes that the scheme is currently going through. I lead a team of Project Managers who support project work across the business. Lisa: I’m the Operations and Communications Director and a member of the Senior Leadership Team. My role is broad and spans leading our communications, Helpdesk and scheme management functions. Tara: My role is Communications Assistant, which means I spend the majority of my time writing blogs, press releases and crafting communications to reach our 4,500-strong certified contractor base. Mia: I am currently completing my level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship with MCS. I work across the business with a range of tasks, and I enjoy participating in meetings. MCS is 68% female - how do you feel about being part of a strong team of women? Sheila: For me, it’s a revelation but steadily becoming a trend within the business. More businesses are engaging and embracing the female-added value, which has not been as prevalent in the past. Tara: Empowered. Multiple teams across our business, including my team, are entirely made up of women, and it’s so empowering to be part of it. We need to acknowledge the positive role that women are playing in the industry, which can empower more women to join. Vicky: I love working with a team of strong women, who are professional, knowledgeable and inspiring. We women hold each other up, and everyone at MCS is massively encouraging and supportive of bringing more women into the sector. Lisa: I am incredibly proud of our workforce - a shining example of diversity and inclusion with 68% representation of talented women. Carol: The women at MCS are incredible role models, and I am very proud to work alongside them all. Mia: I feel like MCS is at the forefront of empowering women in renewables. I feel so proud to work with a team of strong women who are working together to change the industry. What advice would you give to women looking or maybe unsure about joining the renewables sector? Vicky: Just go for it! We need more women in the sector to bring balance and new perspectives. Lisa: Joining the small-scale renewables sector is a rewarding career choice. It should be accessible and understandable to all. I'd advise that they look at the females in our organisation and the diverse roles that they undertake. Sheila: Do your research and you will find that the renewable industry is changing and striving to smash the myths that renewables is just a career for the boys. Carol: Since joining MCS, I’ve found that it’s a great working environment for women. There are no divides between anyone here, everyone works as one team. Tara: You don’t need a background in renewables to join the industry! Before joining MCS, I had no prior knowledge of anything renewables, just a passion and a commitment to learn. Mia: The renewable sector is so interesting and different. Before joining MCS, I would have never imagined this would be a career I would have entered, but it is an amazing sector to be in. To read more on MCS, click here.

Carhartt launches leggings for women

Carhartt has launched a new range of leggings for women that are soft, flexible and snug, and incorporate Carhartt's advanced Force technology, designed to wick away sweat and accelerate drying. Carhartt's women's Force Fitted Lightweight Utility Leggings are designed to maintain their shape and functionality through rigorous activity and frequent washes. Lightweight but thick, these mid-rise, fitted, leggings boast deep pockets, ensuring the user's phone and other essentials stay secure. They dry quickly, don’t sag and the rugged Flex allows for a full range of motion, whether the user is climbing, riding or manoeuvring into tight spaces. The Force Fitted Midweight Utility leggings, available in black, navy and oyster grey, offer breathability but also superior protection with their thicker, reinforced design. Sitting at the waist for a secure fit, these leggings are reinforced at the knees and have abrasion-resistant pockets for added durability. With triple-stitched main seams, they are built to last. The Force Fitted Heavyweight Lined Leggings are perfect when the weather is chilly or damp and are ideal for active women, as the inner lining is made of 100% polyester, making these leggings feel cosy and snug. They come with abrasion-resistant pockets at the front, utility pockets and back. All Carhartt leggings come with Rugged Flex technology for effortless movement and FastDry technology to wick away sweat and keep odours at bay. To read more on Carhartt, click here.

Inclusion in engineering for International Women's Day

In 2021, women only made up 16.5% of engineers and, although this figure has increased year-on-year, the comparative amount is still disproportionate. An environment where employees feel heard and represented is an environment that will allow for talent to flourish and a business to thrive. As this International Women’s Day theme is 'inspire inclusion', the following report from Airmatic dives into why and how businesses and organisations could encourage more diversity in the workplace and how they can inspire inclusion and attract more women into engineering. Looking at UCAS data from 2023, out of 189,030 applications to study engineering 149,240 were male and 39,800 were female. Females tended to apply to subjects related to Medicine, Social Sciences, and Design Creative and Performing Arts. Whereas for males, Engineering and Technology was the second most studied field after Business and Management. The UK has been working alongside UCAS to implement initiatives to attract young talent in these industries, most notably through apprenticeships, fast-track study routes and funding opportunities, but it seems as if this won't be sufficient in attracting and retaining talent. Gen Z is predicted to make up 27% of the workforce by 2025, demonstrating the importance of adapting the expectations around workplaces. Studies show that 70% of Gen Z would prioritise working for a company whose values closely align with their own. Historically, certain trades, such as engineering may have been perceived by some as unwelcoming environments. These stereotypes have the power to deter women and underrepresented individuals from pursuing a career in these fields through fear of feeling unsafe or uncomfortable. It is crucial to challenge and dispel these stereotypes through increased awareness, representation and clear communication of business values - to the extent that 56% of Gen Z in the UK are hesitant to take on a role from a company that does not have diverse leadership. Businesses and organisations need to focus on establishing an inclusive workplace culture by implementing robust policies and continual learning and development. Here’s what to do: Hire an inclusivity, diversity, and equality officer If you are unsure where to start within your organisation, help is available to assist you in implementing these changes. Consider hiring or outsourcing an equality, diversity and inclusion (ED&I) officer. They will implement a harmonious company culture alongside strategic goals and key company policies. Fair recruitment and hiring practices When hiring new team members, organisations should comply with relevant anti-discrimination laws and regulations. By prioritising fair recruitment, organisations can access the best talent available, and it can improve employee morale and engagement. Core values Reevaluate your core company values and live by them. Think about what your DEI values will be, how you can implement them, and illustrate what your company hopes to achieve and represent within these. Safe spaces Create safe spaces within your company’s work environment where employees can talk, make suggestions, speak to their superiors, and provide multiple ways to give feedback. By involving all employees in inclusion efforts, you are demonstrating a commitment to listening to their concerns and valuing their input, creating a more positive workplace culture. Non-discrimination-policy Setting clear expectations about acceptable behaviour at work is not only the right thing to do ethically, but it also prevents discrimination and protects employees' emotional and mental well-being. Training and development opportunities for staff Inclusive training programs can educate and raise awareness around unconscious biases, stereotypes and systemic barriers that may exist in the workplace. This will strengthen team bonding and, through understanding and empathy, ensure that each team member feels included and valued. Equal opportunity Promoting fairness and equality in the workplace will ensure that all employees have a fair chance at succeeding based on their skills and performance rather than other factors such as race, gender, age, religion or disability. A few ways you can implement this is through fair recruitment and hiring practices, providing employees equal pay and benefits, and offering flexible work arrangements. To read more on Airmatic, click here.