The Aico/HomeLINK Community Awards will return for 2024

After the success of its first Community Awards in 2022, Aico/HomeLINK has announced that it is bringing this event back for its second year, returning on Thursday, 18 April 2024, at the International Convention Centre, Birmingham. Hosted by Carl Jones, who presents Shropshire Business Live TV, and works across print, radio and TV, the awards ceremony will welcome over 400 guests and finalists for an evening of celebration, and recognition of excellence within the social housing industry and local community. The evening will also include a special guest appearance. The Community Awards consists of 13 different categories, all of which are now open to enter: Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative Neighbourhood Transformation Resident Engagement Lifetime Achievement Award Woman in Fire Safety Award College Initiative of the Year Rising Star Award Electrical Contractor of the Year Inspirational Colleague of the Year Sustainability Project of the Year Best Distributor Community Initiative Collaborative Partnership Apprentice of the Year Aico is delighted to launch the Apprentice of the Year Award for 2024. The award has been established to honour the brightest talents within the electrical industry. The top six candidates for this award will be invited to the Aico/HomeLINK Community Awards ceremony, where the winner will be announced. The Community Awards are open for nominations to the public and organisations across the UK. Entries will be accepted until the 16 February 2024. To enter an individual or organisation, please find the Community Awards entry forms here. Neal Hooper, Managing Director of Aico, comments, “We are thrilled to be bringing back the Community Awards, these awards are a celebration of the inspirational people and organisations within social housing and our local communities. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a key focus for Aico/HomeLINK. We believe it's about making a real difference in the lives of those around us, that’s why it’s so important to recognise the individuals and organisations who are going above and beyond to make their communities a better place. We look forward to celebrating the achievements of the nominees at the Awards in April.” The Aico/HomeLINK Community Awards are a unique opportunity to recognise the outstanding work that is being done by individuals and organisations across the UK to improve the lives and safety of others. To find out more, and how to enter, visit the website here.

Launch of wireless BMS sensors offers new advantages

Siemens has introduced three new wireless room sensors as part of its ongoing development of the company’s expanding IoT range. Wireless technology has moved on significantly in recent years and is once again starting to become a popular option in building management systems (BMS), offering several advantages over conventional wired technologies. The introduction of the wireless, battery-operated sensors enables quick and easy installation to provide important monitoring of indoor air quality (IAQ), with three options available: temperature only; temperature and relative humidity; temperature, relative humidity and CO2. With CO2 being an excellent indicator of IAQ, this new sensor offers a measurement accuracy of +/-2%. For those requiring monitoring of all three variables, the three sensors are housed in a single unit, with a temperature range of 0°C - 50°C, a humidity range of 0% - 100% and a CO2 concentration range of 0 – 5,000ppm. Open interfaces are key in enabling more intelligent room devices and building solutions. The new sensors communicate wirelessly through Thread - an open source, mesh networking, IP-based protocol - meaning they operate seamlessly, either with Siemens own BMS, such as the popular Desigo system, or with those of other manufacturers. Thread’s low power consumption, spread-spectrum techniques provide immunity to interference, while its self-healing properties avoid a single point of failure. This enables automated control of IAQ, with, for example, the sensor triggering increased ventilation when a predetermined CO2 level is detected, even if a router fails. The new sensors have been three years in development and are being launched at an opportune time. With buildings being repurposed and offices being reconfigured in light of the changing building landscape post-COVID, the capability to easily relocate the sensors to meet new requirements without damaging walls and ceilings through rewiring is a particular advantage. Aesthetics are further addressed through the slim new design and easy mounting options (wall, flush or tape mounting).

Tackle the elements with the Carhartt Insulated Jacket range

Carhartt has launched its Insulated Jacket range to tackle the elements head-on. Engineered for the tough, modern workforce, these men's jackets combine rugged durability with unbeatable comfort, ensuring you can tackle the task at hand no matter the weather. Whether it’s loading the van or digging foundations, the Carhartt LWD Relaxed Fit Stretch Insulated Jacket (106013) guarantees ease of movement, flexibility and long-lasting wear. Safety on site is always paramount, so this jacket includes reflective details to enhance low-light visibility. With secure storage in the form of chest and interior pockets, essentials remain within easy reach and it has an adjustable hem which allows for a customisable fit. Made of 85% Nylon and 15% Elastane, it comes in black or chive with Carhartt LWD Reflective Stripes on the sleeves, adding a unique touch to the jacket's design. The Rain Defender Relaxed Fit Lightweight Insulated Jacket (102208) defies the winter chill without the weight. Weighing just 1.75oz, its rugged Cordura Fabric shell is lighter than your average tee. Quilted for comfort, water-repellent for weather defence and loaded with pockets, this versatile jacket adapts to every temperature drop. Gear up for the elements with the Carhartt Montana Loose Fit Insulated Jacket (105474) – it’s tailored to triumph over wet weather. The synthetic down insulation and sherpa fleece lining in the upper body keep you toasty warm while the attached three-piece hood and adjustable hem keep out the rain. Boasting a loose fit for comfort and loaded with pockets inside and out, this jacket combines durability with style. All three Carhartt Insulated Jackets come with Rain Defender water repellent finish and Wind Fighter for added warmth and comfort. Whether you're facing wind, light rain or cooler temperatures, these jackets are the ultimate companions on site in unpredictable weather conditions.

Omexom unveils state-of-the-art training facility in Castleford

Omexom, the VINCI Energies brand, has opened a new branch of its Omexom Institute in Castleford, West Yorkshire, for technicians working on overhead lines, substations and underground cables. This new facility proudly stands as the 14th addition to the Omexom Institute’s global network, which serves as a vibrant hub for knowledge exchange and collaboration, reinforcing Omexom’s ability to deliver the highest levels of expertise to its customers. Replacing a previous Omexom Institute in Leeds, the Castleford facility’s modern classrooms, state-of-the-art virtual reality suite and expanded practical areas will equip even more learners to safely and efficiently tackle the challenges of energy infrastructure projects today and tomorrow. The centre will educate up to 100 newcomers to the energy industry each year, including apprentices from the Castleford and Wakefield area – a testament to Omexom and VINCI Energies’ commitment to building the next generation of industry experts. Furthermore, the facility will offer ongoing refresher training for over 450 staff within Omexom UK and RoI annually, underscoring the company’s ongoing dedication to the skills of its existing workforce and consistently delivering excellence on customer projects. In the underground cabling zone, learners will receive instruction in initial duct installation, cable drum handling, cable handling and pulling, and gantry installation at voltage levels ranging from 132kV to 400kV. The facility also includes a 132kV indoor substation to practice on, as well as space to build and assemble 275kV and 400kV substation components outdoors. Finally, a dedicated overhead line training area covers the installation of multi-bundle conductor configurations up to 400kV, tower climbing, tower rescue procedures and platform works. In the near future, the Omexom Institute plans to open two further facilities: one in Inverness, Scotland, focusing on substation and wood pole EHV overhead line construction, and another in Cashel, Ireland, specialising in distribution. Between these three centres, Omexom will be able to comprehensively teach all aspects of its services within the UK and Republic of Ireland. Esteemed guests, including the Mayor of Wakefield, Councillor Josie Pritchard, attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony on 9 November to celebrate the significance of the new facility in providing opportunities for young people in the Wakefield District, as well as the ability of Omexom to deliver energy infrastructure projects of national importance and promote best practice around the globe. In her inaugural address, the Mayor of Wakefield praises Omexom’s support for the education and career prospects of young people in the area, “The opening of this state-of-the-art training facility is a testament to Omexom’s commitment to providing opportunities for people, especially young people, in Castleford. We are thrilled to have this facility in our district, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on our community and the UK energy network as a whole.” Simon Innis, Managing Director of Omexom UK and RoI, adds, “Our greatest business asset is our people and investing in their development is paramount. This commitment is not only vital for our company's success but also for the capacity and reliability of energy networks across the UK and Republic of Ireland. The opening of this new facility marks a significant step in meeting the growing demand for skilled professionals in our industry, who are instrumental in advancing the energy transition through critical infrastructure projects. I'm immensely proud of our team's achievements thus far and eagerly anticipate the transformative impact of the Castleford facility and our other upcoming institute sites, not only on our business but on enhancing industry-wide skills and capabilities."

Baxi unveils specialist commercial heat pump facility

Baxi has hosted the first official visit to its €13 million commercial heat pump R&D and laboratory site in Vilafranca del Penedès, Spain. Baxi is part of BDR Thermea Group. The 7,000m² Baxi factory, located near Barcelona and opened just last year, is focused on developing and producing commercial heat pump technology. The site boasts complete in-house capabilities spanning R&D, logistics, manufacturing and assembly, and including climatic testing chambers and a controls desk. During the visit, guests were provided with an exclusive preview of the new Remeha Effenca commercial heat pump series that was designed and produced at Vilafranca and is currently undergoing final testing. The new range, which includes high temperature R290 refrigerant air source heat pumps (ASHPs), will launch imminently in the UK with full Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). Harriet Evans, Renewables Director at Baxi, says, “The focus on low carbon design is now critical in line with ambitious government decarbonisation targets. Heat pumps, which decarbonise heating at the point of use, are a big part of how we as a company are supporting our commercial and residential customers through the energy transition. We are proud to demonstrate our full in-house capabilities and competencies at Vilafranca, and of the wide expertise and support we have within group in this technology. We are excited to be expanding our Remeha ASHP range in the very near future with both medium and high temperature ASHPs – watch this space!”

Hager launches industry-leading training platform

Industry professionals have the chance to fine-tune their skills and absorb new knowledge thanks to the launch of a new training platform. Hager Academy Online is a dedicated online learning platform designed by electrical manufacturer, Hager UK. Launched in September, it’s an evolution of the face-to-face training that Hager already offers. Hager UK says, “There’s much going on within the electrical sector – including new markets emerging, net zero targets and skills gaps. We know it’s vital that professionals within the industry proactively and regularly participate in training to stay at the very top of their game. “Information, advice and support is essential to furthering careers and enhancing business growth. Providing this knowledge on an online platform that can be accessible from anywhere, at any time and in different formats to suit every learner, represents the ultimate solution. “The variety of training options available on Hager Academy Online, means there’s something for everyone. Including those wanting to refresh their knowledge on the go, those entering the industry seeking in-depth guidance or those needing comprehensive product-specific training. “The platform is accessible on all devices, meaning it’s the pocket-sized learning partner for electrical professionals. These bitesize courses can increase confidence, motivation and independence of your teams. The platform was designed and is regularly updated by our technical experts who boast more than 50 years of combined industry experience, meaning you can rest assured it’s compliant, reliable and accurate.”

Armorduct joins the Electrical Distributors’ Association

Armorduct has joined the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) as an affiliate manufacturer. To further improve its service to wholesalers, it has also joined the EDATA data pool, where manufacturers share their product data with multiple wholesalers. Alfie Rowe, Managing Director at Amorduct, says, “We pride ourselves on offering the wholesaler the best possible service by working closely with them to meet a contractor’s needs. Joining the EDA and EDATA is an important step for us in that drive by making as much information as easily available as possible. “Having the highest quality product information readily at hand is a vital part of that service, but we aim to go further than other manufacturers by offering a more flexible alternative in addition to our standard product offer. We will work as an extension of the wholesaler, so that we can help them solve problems for the contractor, whether that’s to save time on site or to meet a particularly tricky design brief for cable management. “Our business is set up to be flexible with a separate specials production line. As a British manufacturer, it means that we can respond to requests far more quickly than other manufacturers, whether that’s for a complete design service for a bespoke ready-to-assemble solution or simply cutting cable tray or trunking to length, to save time and waste on site. “When we say that we partner the wholesaler in their service to the contractor, it’s what we’ve been doing for the past 25 years, and it’s what keeps our customers coming back.” Margaret Fitzsimons, CEO at the EDA, adds, “We are delighted to welcome Armorduct to the association and to the EDATA data pool, which is a key pillar of our work to digitalise the UK’s electrotechnical sector. Armorduct recognises the efficiencies in productivity that streamlined high quality data can deliver to every point in the supply chain. This is primarily about driving sales from manufacturer to wholesaler, and wholesaler to contractor, but it is also about improving the accuracy and traceability of product information during a building’s lifetime, an increasingly important demand in the construction sector.”

Successful funding bid for Inform leads to collaborative innovation

EA Technology, together with project partners, has been successful in winning funding for the Alpha phase of the Inform project – a collaborative initiative to develop a self-serve high voltage connections tool to be hosted on Northern Powergrid’s website, for use by developers of complex sites. Working alongside Northern Powergrid, Energy Systems Catapult, Newcastle NHS Trust, City of York Council, Kensa Contracting and Renewable Energy Network, the project is funded by energy network users and consumers through the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), a programme from the UK’s independent energy regulator Ofgem, managed in partnership with Innovate UK. This project builds on an earlier Strategic Innovation Fund feasibility phase, during which benefits analysis determined the development of the tool would enable faster connections of low carbon technologies (focusing particularly on heat pumps) and accelerate the transition of complex sites to net zero operation. The Alpha stage will build upon this by developing a proof-of-concept tool that aims to demonstrate key novel functionality to give site developers options to reduce connection costs, via methods such as energy efficiency and on-site energy storage. The project will use an agile methodology to develop the online software tool, which EA Technology has successfully deployed to deliver self-serve connection tools for multiple GB District Network Operators. Regular feedback sessions will be held with stakeholders to ensure that the tool is fit for purpose and easy to use. Drawing on previous experience in developing online self-serve connection tools such as AutoDesign and ConnectMore, EA Technology is well placed to ensure efficient delivery. Meanwhile, Energy Systems Catapult will bring extensive knowledge of building projects via work, such as Modern Energy Partners (MEP), to ensure their expertise in building decarbonisation is incorporated into the tool. The tool is anticipated to offer savings to the customer through reduced connection costs and quick free budget estimates, as well as savings, to the network operator through reduced staff costs. General electricity customers will benefit through reduced costs for socialised network reinforcement, the accelerated adoption of low carbon technologies, and the decarbonisation that this project will enable.  Thomas Stone, Project Manager, EA Technology, comments, “I am excited that the Inform project team has been successful in securing funding to deliver the next stage. The proof-of-concept tool developed in this stage of the project will show how it is possible to incorporate optioneering into self-serve connection tools to accelerate heat electrification, whilst simultaneously ensuring connection costs are minimised for complex sites. This tool therefore has huge potential to accelerate decarbonisation.” 

Leeds College of Building taster day promotes lifelong learning

Equans has held an interactive trades taster day at Leeds College of Building to promote exciting and varied construction careers. Hosted at the college’s South Bank campus, the event aimed to inspire young people and adults currently unemployed, looking to upskill, or considering changing to a career in construction. Four interactive sessions gave the participants insight into the diverse roles of a bricklayer, electrician, and plumber. The practical workshops let attendees, including Jobcentre Plus referrals, try their hand at each trade, as well as learn more about roles and responsibilities. Equans is currently working on projects across Leeds to modernise, maintain and decarbonise the city’s social housing. The event comes as the country celebrates Lifelong Learning Week (6 – 10 November), the annual celebration of adult learners and education providers across England. Part of the Learning and Work Institute's flagship ‘Festival of Learning’ campaign, Lifelong Learning Week illustrates how adult learning can change lives and inspire individuals to fulfil their potential. Courtney Ward, Social Value Officer at Equans, says, "Lifelong learning is becoming ever more important as working lives lengthen, the population ages, and the needs of the economy change. There is a high demand for construction workers at present, particularly through the opportunities created by the government’s ambition to decarbonise the UK’s homes, and the industry is in desperate need of more people to pick up tools. “I asked our long-standing partner, Leeds College of Building, to work with us on the event as I’d previously attended their open day and saw the fantastic practical activities they offered. This hands-on taster day was far more engaging than simply listening to a talk and was a great way to illuminate potential career paths in the construction sector.” Alistair Mitchell, Leeds College of Building, Curriculum Manager for the full-time and adult plumbing provision, adds, “Leeds College of Building has worked with Equans for many years as a trusted apprenticeship training provider. We work together to nurture apprentices and full-time students across construction specialisms, such as plumbing and electrical installations. This event is the latest development in this fantastic partnership. “I am delighted with how well the trade taster day went and how much positive feedback we received. These types of events are vital, if we are to meet government targets and fill critical skills gaps across the UK construction sector.” Learn more about courses, training, and apprenticeships for adult learners at the next Leeds College of Building open day: Saturday 18 November, 10am – 1pm, South Bank Campus. Register your place: www.lcb.ac.uk/events 

Leading apprenticeship provider JTL retains ‘Good’ Ofsted rating

JTL has received a Grade 2 ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted. Following an inspection that took place between 1 August to 4 August 2023, JTL has retained the same grade it received in 2016 as a result of ‘improvement actions'.  Chris Claydon, Chief Executive at JTL, says, “As a nationally recognised organisation, we understand our responsibility to provide a high-quality learner journey to enable our apprentices and the businesses they support to thrive. We are proud to see that our learners hold a positive attitude to learning and that they are committed to completing their studies. As we plan for the next year, we recognise that there is more that we can do and are constantly looking to improve the quality of our provision. “We are pleased to achieve a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted and are grateful to the team who ensured they had a strong understanding of JTL, and recognise the commitment from our staff to work with both learners and employers to tailor the learning experience to local, regional and national skills needs. We are thankful to our staff who work tirelessly with learners and employers and appreciate that an inspection visit is a snapshot of their daily work and activity. “Along with the feedback from Ofsted, we have been listening to our employers and learners, and as part of our commitment to further improve the quality of our provision, we have developed a new strategy which puts the quality of the learner journey at the centre of everything we do. We will be sharing this strategy and some of the changes it will bring, with employers, learners and other stakeholders over the next two months.”  To find out more about JTL’s apprenticeship programmes and to apply, please visit here.