Environment Agency reduces waste red tape

The Environment Agency (EA) has announced that it will no longer enforce certain documentation when customers drop off trade waste at wholesalers. The change is contained in a new Regulatory Position Statement (RPS) 283 dated 11 September 2023. This states that customers dropping business waste off at wholesaler sites will not be challenged if they do not supply a Waste Transfer Note, or in the case of hazardous waste like waste electricals and lamps, a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note. The RPS does not change the law. Instead, it is simply means that no enforcement action will be taken against those who do not comply with it. As would be expected, there are conditions attached to the RPS. For example, the activities must not cause pollution to the environment, or harm to human health. The wholesaler collection points must comply with all other relevant waste related legislation. The businesses and contractors should only drop off waste that has arisen as a result of their own commercial activities. And the wholesalers must not charge their customers for dropping off the waste. Commenting on the announcement, Recolight's CEO, Nigel Harvey, says, “It is great to see the EA taking this pragmatic approach. Waste documentation is clearly important to ensure traceability and accountability. But to require consignment and transfer notes every time a business drops off a small amount of waste at their local wholesaler branch seems disproportionate. This change will make it a little bit easier for businesses to ensure their waste is properly collected and recycled.” The RPS will be in force for three years after which it will be reviewed. It only applies to England. Click here for more latest news.

Scruffs - working together with tradies for 20 years

Scruffs has been working side-by-side with tradespeople for 20 years and its reputation is hard earned. Launched in 2003, Scruffs brought a game-changing ‘one price fits all’ buy and sell proposition to the market with the launch of Scruffs Safety Boots. The standout name and high-impact marketing drove huge brand awareness. In 2004, after a successful first year, the Scruffs team extended the range to include workwear and they’ve been hard at work since. Recent additions to the range include a hugely successful range of women’s workwear and the sustainably sourced eco range. Today, Scruffs works with a 260-strong army of wear triallists, ensuring durability, comfort and performance is never compromised. Their hard work and commitment to workwear and tradies doesn’t go unnoticed, and Scruffs is proud to have been crowned On the Tools Workwear Brand of the Year in 2019 and 2022. Scruffs is celebrating its 20th year on its website and social media – keep an eye out for exclusive giveaways and promotions throughout September. Click here for more latest news.

Martindale introduces the new advanced proving unit range

Martindale Electric has introduced four new proving units to its range. Safe electrical working requires the use of a voltage indicator that has been proven with a suitable proving device, before and after use, to ensure the instrument is working correctly, in accordance with the Electricity at Work Regulations. The new proving units come with all the benefits of the existing Martindale PD440S and PD690S, featuring over-moulded low-profile cases with magnetic hangers. The Martindale PD230SRD, PD440SRD, PD440SRDX and PD690SRD are fast and easy to use, instantly supplying the test voltage for both high and low impedance voltage indicators, test lamps and meters. The units have AC / DC output’s selectable by a push button switch and stepped voltage output, matched to two pole tester thresholds with three maximum output voltages across the range: 230V, 440V and 690V. It’s good practice to match the output voltage of the proving unit with the voltage range of the instrument to be proved. The new series simplifies coordinating devices as they are colour-coded with Martindale voltage indicators. The SRDX model has a unique CALCHECK feature, making it easy to verify insulation and low resistance ranges on 18th Edition multifunction testers, wherever you are working, making it ideal for identifying potential calibration issues with a multifunction tester prior to certifying a new wiring installation or carrying out a condition report. It is also a valuable procedure recognised by electrical contractor assessment bodies. In addition, the new SRD and SRDX models have stepped voltage LEDs with thresholds matched to most voltage indicators and two pole testers. All units have long battery life with low battery indicator and auto power-off feature. Click here for more latest news.

Siemens smart buildings portfolio accredited by WiredScore

Siemens Smart Infrastructure’s smart buildings portfolio has been recognised by WiredScore’s Accredited Solutions. The accreditation for smart solution providers is granted by WiredScore, a US-based company that sets a global standard for technology in the built world through certification and education.   One of the Accredited Solutions is Building X, a scalable digital building platform. It supports customers to digitalise, manage, and optimise building operations, allowing for enhanced user experience, increased performance, and improved sustainability. Others include Siveillance, as well as Desigo CC. They are all part of the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio.   The accreditation acknowledges Siemens’ continued efforts and investment in meeting global standards for smart buildings in terms of user functionality and technological foundation. It also highlights its strong commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and future adaptability, creating value for building owners and operators globally.   “We are delighted that Building X and our wider smart buildings portfolio have been recognised under WiredScore’s Accredited Solutions program. This underlines our commitment to improving people’s health, comfort, and safety in the built environment, and to deliver on building performance and sustainability needs of our clients. Our goal is to combine the real and the digital worlds in real estate through our accredited range of solutions, and deliver tangible business outcomes for our customers,” says Henning Sandfort, CEO Building Products at Siemens Smart Infrastructure.   Laura Hancox, Director of Partner Programs at WiredScore, comments, “We are delighted to be working in close partnership with Siemens across their Siemens Xcelerator portfolio. To be recognised by our Accredited Solutions program demonstrates their commitment as part of a wider, industry wide effort to provide buildings that are future-ready and suitable for the needs of the modern workforce.” Click here for more latest news.

Toolstation raises £2 million for Macmillan Cancer Support

Toolstation has announced that it has raised £2 million for Macmillan Cancer Support in just three years, after it became a partner to the charity in 2020. The funds raised will help Macmillan continue to do whatever it takes to provide vital support to people affected by cancer across the UK. The staggering amount raised could support 32 Macmillan nurses for a whole year, helping people living with cancer and their families receive essential support. To mark the occasion, Toolstation’s Managing Director, Angela Rushforth, handed over a presentation cheque to George Michell and Rebecca Fanning from Macmillan Cancer Support on 31 August 2023. Fundraising efforts by teams across the Toolstation business, including those at its distribution and support centre, and its 550 stores took place throughout the year to reach the impressive figure. Support centre colleagues took part in a tough mudder challenge, its finance team carried out a 563-mile walk, while several directors from its support centre ran the London marathon for a third consecutive time. Other fundraising activities carried out last year included participating in Macmillan’s Brave the Shave campaign, sponsored dog walking, team walking events and fancy dress days. These activities were supported by in-store customer donations during the Easter and August bank holidays. Fundraising efforts for Macmillan also came through Toolstation’s collaboration with micro-donation charity, Pennies, with customers able to add an optional donation to the charity onto their purchases when paying by card and contactless. Toolstation’s Managing Director, Angela Rushforth, says, “To smash through the £2 million milestone in three years is nothing short of sensational. When we partnered with Macmillan Cancer Support, our objective was to find ways to support our local communities with help when they need it most, through our fundraising efforts. “The time, generosity and imagination of our customers and colleagues has been remarkable. Our fundraising will support the charity in its efforts to be there for everyone living with or affected by cancer.” Claire Rowney, Executive Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Innovation at Macmillan Cancer Support, says, “We couldn’t be more grateful to everyone at Toolstation for their incredible fundraising efforts, raising an epic £2 million in just three years. “Toolstation colleagues and customers up and down the country have truly been going above and beyond for Macmillan, by taking on a variety of challenges and showcasing a real determination to do whatever it takes to support people living with cancer. “We rely almost entirely on donations to provide our vital support services, and the huge generosity from valued partners like Toolstation means we can continue to do all that we can for the people who need us most.” To donate to Toolstation’s fundraising efforts for Macmillan, go to: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/toolstation Click here for more latest news.

Hyperscale data centres key to driving APJ's energy transition

As corporations and governments pursue the challenge of achieving a low-carbon future in Asia Pacific & Japan (APJ), AirTrunk has released its ‘Powering a Clean Energy Future’ report that identifies hyperscale data centres as key drivers in APJ’s energy transition to 24/7 clean energy (CE). The report highlights how a hyperscale data centre’s size, electricity demand profile, innovation capabilities and proven experience in procuring renewable energy puts them in a prime position for partnership to accelerate the transition. Through energy system modelling, the report also determines the most effective technology pathways and costs to reaching 24/7 (CE), providing holistic analysis of what is required. AirTrunk's Head of Energy and Climate, Joscha Schmitz, says, “24/7 clean energy is crucial to achieving climate targets by fully decarbonising power grids. As the major hyperscale data centre provider in APJ, we released this report with the intention to build momentum towards achieving 24/7 clean energy in the region.” “24/7 clean energy is more advanced in the European and North American markets due to resource availability and market maturity. The report outlines opportunities to successfully deliver clean energy technology in APJ, which is the fastest growing region, but the one experiencing the most difficulty in managing the energy transition,” says Joscha. The report recognises the need for more industry collaboration and highlights the six steps key industry players and governments must do to fully realise the potential of 24/7 CE in APJ, including: Increase and strengthen grid interconnection between markets Accelerate ‘green molecules’ and other new firming and storage technologies Diversify renewables portfolio with local firming solutions Leverage on-site infrastructure to support local grids and power markets Shift non-latency-sensitive loads to lower cost markets Start the discussion to achieve 24/7 clean energy in a cost-optimal way AirTrunk's Chief Technology Officer, Damien Spillane, says, “Major corporations and governments in APJ have made significant emissions reductions commitments, however in the current climate, it remains challenging to achieve these. That’s why we are calling on energy providers, sustainability groups, corporations and governments to work together, and with us, to facilitate a clean energy future for all.” “We take our responsibility as a key enabler of the transition seriously and will continue to focus our efforts on decarbonisation as we progress toward net zero emissions by 2030,” says Damien. The ‘Powering a Clean Energy Future’ report can be downloaded here. Click here for more latest news.

Boost for North East charities, thanks to Seaward

Electrical test and measurement equipment specialist has donated thousands of pounds to County Durham charities. Seaward Electronic, based in Peterlee, County Durham, has donated £3,000 to three local charities to help support a number of important community activities. Working to create social equality and prosperity within the former pit village, The Little House of Hope in Thornley, has received £1,000 towards transport costs for its ‘Hope Sings’ choir. Thanking Seaward for its generosity, Choir Master, Sue Furness, says, “Donations like this make a big difference. We have three events arranged for the rest of the year - performing at an old people’s home, a young mother’s club and finally, a Christmas carol service - so the extra funds will be very helpful in transporting the choir from place to place.” The Alice Hospice in Hartlepool, which cares for and comforts people affected by life-limiting illness or the death of a loved one, has also received a £1,000, after it was nominated by one of Seaward’s employees. Greg Hildreth, Business and Communications Senior Manager, says, “It was great to have the opportunity to show Alison and Chris from Seaward around the hospice. They also met with Sue Whalley, our lovely nurse practitioner, and we would like to thank them for their generosity.” A third donation has gone to Ferryhill’s Little Treasures autism charity, which works from eight locations across the North East to support autistic adults and children, Seaward visited the Peterlee group. Trustee, Clair Black, says that the donation will help fund summer holiday activities such as axe throwing and air rifle shooting. She adds, “We would like to thank everyone at Seaward for their kind hearted donation, which is helping us to get back on our feet after Covid. We are looking for active volunteers to work at our venues and join our fundraising team, so this extra boost is very welcome.” Chris Callan, CEO at Seaward, which supplies its products to customers across the UK and around the world, says, “I can’t think of better recipients for our donations. I found the visits incredibly inspiring, the commitment and effort of the people to help each other was amazing. “From support for people and families with autism, community groups proving services to local people and to a wonderful hospice providing respite and end of life care - all of the people involved gave huge amounts of time and endless enthusiasm, which was I was lucky to see even just a small part of. The donations were possible because of all the work we all do in Seaward. The charities have asked me to pass on their thanks to all the staff as the donations will be a really big help!” Click here for more latest news.

Start your free CPD course with Hager Academy

Grow your skills and earn your free CPD certification with Hager Academy Online. Get ready to supercharge your product knowledge and master installations with ease. Start your first course! Click here for more latest news.

CEF launches issue 13 of its trade catalogue

CEF has launched its latest Trade Catalogue on 1 September 2023. Packed with 1,365 new products, the new Trade Catalogue spotlights an extensive range of power tools, hand tools and electrical essentials to meet the needs of electricians and trade professionals throughout the UK. Mick Di Stazio, Director of Marketing, Europe, CEF, says, “It’s important for us to continue to provide our customers with a wide range of great products and services. Our industry is fast-paced and so our customers need to be able to see at a glance, what’s available and where from. Our free CEF Trade App makes it easier than ever before to order from our new Trade Catalogue and with a Click & Collect option, our customers can check stock availability, reserve orders and arrange for hassle-free collection when it suits them. “As well as increasing our product ranges by 1,365, we’re giving customers the chance to win some amazing prizes. We’ve partnered with Klein and Super Rod to offer a top prize of £10,000 worth of tools and a trip to Dallas, Texas, USA. We also have runner-up prizes for grabs alongside ‘instant win’ opportunities.” The new Trade Catalogue shines a spotlight on Makita power tools that are ideal for tough building projects, renovations, and home improvements. With over 100 years of experience, Makita has become a trusted name in the power tool industry, offering a wide range of cordless power tools. Issue 13 of the CEF Trade catalogue is available to pick up from any of CEF’s 394 stores or people can visit cef.co.uk/request to request a copy. All products featured are available for either next-day delivery or to Click & Collect from a CEF branch. The catalogue can also be viewed online. Click here for more latest news.

Business net zero plans blown off track by the energy crisis

According to research published by Schneider Electric, 82% of UK business leaders say the energy crisis will impact their organisation’s ability to meet emissions reduction plans. Of that figure, around half of organisations say they are delaying planned investment in sustainability and net zero plans (49%). Just over one third of the same organisations (34%) say they now have more immediate business challenges to meet. More than a quarter of these organisations claim that taking practical action to meet targets is difficult (27%). Given the direct link between lower energy use and decreased emissions, organisations that maintain efforts to meet their emissions targets will also reduce energy use as a result. This, in turn, will lower their overall energy costs, and provide a useful boost to the bottom line in a challenging economic climate. Crucially, the survey of more than 1,200 large organisations reveals that business leaders still recognise the importance of working to emissions reduction targets, as 39% believe that climate change and net zero ambitions will become more of a priority over the next three years. Only a small minority (12%) believe that national net zero commitments will be diluted in that time. “Business leaders tell us that the energy crisis should be seen alongside the many other challenges they have faced over the last twelve months, including economic pressures, cyber security and skills shortages. Yet our research suggests that some of the UK and Ireland’s largest organisations are ‘kicking the carbon emissions can down the road’, as a result of the energy crisis,” says Kelly Becker, Zone President, Schneider Electric UK and Ireland. “As fears grow about progress against global commitments made under the Paris Agreement, and the UK’s Climate Change Committee warns of a lack of progress on emissions cuts, the UK and Ireland need businesses and organisations in the public sector to play their part and stick to their net zero and emissions reduction targets,” says Kelly Becker. The survey also reveals that only around one in five (21%) of those surveyed believe that energy prices will fall over the next three years, while over two thirds (69%) think their organisation will still be addressing the energy crisis in 12 months’ time. Presenting the survey findings, Kelly Becker urges business leaders to re-engage with their emissions reduction ambitions, “It’s not all doom and gloom: as our research shows, business leaders still believe in their climate change ambitions – they simply need to push the subject back up the corporate agenda. “The technology required to help businesses decarbonise is already available – and the return on investment for these solutions has never been more attractive, with payback periods measured in months rather than years. Organisations still have time to meet their net zero commitments by understanding and addressing energy use, investing in renewable energy and energy saving technology, and embedding sustainability and carbon reduction targets in their business plans. “What’s more, those that invest in green skills and green jobs will reap the rewards of a diverse workforce for decades to come. At Schneider, we’ve seen this for ourselves through our apprenticeship and graduate programmes.” Click here for more latest news.