HagerGang goes on tour

Hager UK is hitting the road this summer and travelling the length and breadth of the country to celebrate its local communities of electrical installers and contractors. Hager UK explains, “Our summer tour of the UK will provide our team with a unique opportunity to say a personal thank you to our local communities for their continued loyalty, passion and commitment to excellence.” Over the past 30 years, Hager has built a strong community of over 20,000 installers and contractors across the UK. This tour will allow the team to meet the HagerGang and offer customers the chance to bag themselves a range of #HagerGang merchandise. From 17 July to 6 September, the HagerGang is going on tour in a fully branded truck. The merch store will be visiting 40 different wholesalers in 40 different locations. Hager is inviting electricians, installers and contractors from across those regions and beyond to come along. In exchange for any Hager products purchased in store, customers will qualify for free HagerGang merchandise, including t-shirts, hoodies, water bottles and its famous blue screwdrivers. Hager says, “Our customers are absolutely integral to our business. We’re fully committed to providing the best possible service to them and seeing how we can evolve and enhance our product offering to better fulfil their needs. The HagerGang tour is a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with our customers face to face and develop our already well-established community relationships.” Click here for more info and to view tour dates and locations.

Toolstation superfan gets to live his dream

A young eight year old Toolstation superfan has had his dreams come true when he visited his local Toolstation store in Dartford. Charles Wiltshire loves the supplier of tools, accessories and building supplies so much that Craig Oliver, Toolstation’s Business Development Manager, approached his dad, Jesse, and invited them both for a tour of the store, where they surprised him with a personalised Toolstation t-shirt in his size. While there, Charles served several customers, met with colleagues, collected his latest Toolstation catalogue, and took away some DIY tools too. Craig Oliver, Toolstation’s Business Development Manager, says, “It was fantastic to see such a passionate young fan. After spotting his dad’s social post about Charles’ love of Toolstation, we had to get in touch and offer him a tour. The team went above and beyond to make him feel special and the smile on his face says it all. Charles even got a personalised Toolstation T-shirt, our new catalogue and some tools to add to his collection. We can’t wait to welcome him back. It’s great to see that we are inspiring a young generation into the construction and trades sector.” Jesse Wiltshire, Charles’ father, says, “Charles is completely enthralled with Toolstation. Thanks to the Dartford team for giving him such a thrilling experience. It proves Toolstation are positive about people. I love the ethos.” As part of its ambition to help young people learn about DIY and vocational skills, Toolstation supports social enterprise VIY (Volunteer It Yourself) and has helped youngsters earn over 200 City & Guilds qualifications. It has also trained 100 apprentices who are on or have graduated from the Toolstation Academy apprentice programme delivered by LEAP Apprenticeships & Early Careers.

SELECT announces new wage agreement for electricians

SELECT has announced that a two-year wage agreement has been agreed for Scotland’s electricians. The deal, which will see rates of pay for electricians, apprentices and adult trainees rise by 7% in 2024 and a further 5% in 2025, will come into effect in January 2024. The new wage agreement, which will apply across the UK, has been announced following lengthy negotiations between SELECT, the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) and Unite the Union. Fiona Harper, Director of Employment and Skills at SELECT, says, “This agreement has taken a lot of hard work over a number of months but we are extremely pleased with the outcome. “In the current climate of ongoing financial uncertainty, and with the cost of living crisis continuing to impact on everyone, we are pleased to have been able to reach a deal that provides clarity and certainty over a two year period. “We also believe the deal reflects the dedication required to become an electrician and the standing in which such tradespeople are held in today’s construction industry. “The future is electric and will require a properly trained and competent workforce, so it is only fitting that such skill is rewarded.” Under the new deal, the hourly rates of pay will rise for technicians, approved electricians, electricians, labourers, apprentices and adult trainees. Fiona, who is also the Secretary of the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB), adds, “Full details of the new agreement can be found on the SJIB website, and I would urge all operatives and employers to familiarise themselves with the details so they are prepared when they come into effect. “As well as thanking the representatives from Unite for their constructive cooperation during the negotiations, I would also like to thank all SELECT member firms for their patience and recognition that, once again, their trade association was working tirelessly on their behalf. “The agreement has taken a while to achieve but shows the value of working together to provide a positive solution that serves the best interests of electricians across Scotland.”

MCS appoints BAB for small-scale renewables

The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) has appointed the British Assessment Bureau (BAB) as a certification body for the installation of small-scale renewables. This new partnership will help the UK install more high quality renewable installations in our homes and businesses and ensure consumer confidence in home grown energy. BAB is the third certification body appointed by MCS in the last year after more than a decade of no new appointments. BAB became UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) accredited in June 2023 to assess the work of contractors to the requirements of MCS standards. Its existing client base and new industry entrants can now become certified to install low carbon technologies to the highest standards. It has also gained accreditation to deliver MCS assessments for solar PV, battery storage, solar heating and the design and installation of air source heat pumps (ASHP) and ground source heat pumps (GSHP) technologies. Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, says, “We are very pleased to announce the new partnership between MCS and BAB, as we work together to reach our joint goals of providing consumer confidence and meeting the scale of government decarbonisation ambitions. “MCS works closely with certification bodies to provide real confidence in home grown energy and heating to consumers, and BAB joins as our latest certification body at a crucial and exciting time in MCS history as we look to redevelop our scheme. Joining forces with BAB will allow MCS to expand our industry reach, help us champion quality, and grow the number of MCS certified contractors delivering high quality installations.” Julian Russell, Chief Product Officer, Amtivo, explains, “We are delighted to now be able to offer MCS certification which complements our existing services and will work together with PAS 2030 to give our contractors a broader scope in helping the government achieve its net zero target. The team have worked incredibly hard to achieve the accreditation in such a short amount of time and we could not be prouder. We are looking forward to working together with MCS and building a strong relationship to help expand the industry with contractors who can deliver high quality work. It is such an exciting time to be part of this growing industry.”

CEDIA seeks participation for Integrated Home Market Analysis

CEDIA has announced the opening of its 2023 Integrated Home Market Analysis, and is calling upon home technology integrators in the US and UK to provide valuable industry insights to appropriately size the market. The findings from its annual analysis have proven their immense value in providing integrators with a comprehensive view of trends and industry health, so that they are able to make more informed, data-led decisions for their businesses. Integrators will be asked to both reflect on their last 12 months of business and make future projections based on those metrics. A series of questions will uncover the most frequently provided integrator service types, favoured brands, sales volume, and the financial value of the work provided. The multinational market survey takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and respondents have the option to remain anonymous. As a reward for completing the survey, CEDIA is offering all participants a £20 credit to a selection of establishments and a copy of the findings, valued at £1,000, regardless of their membership status. The CEDIA Integrated Home Market Analysis closes on 31 July 2023. For more information and to take part in the survey, visit CEDIA's website.

Lowe & Oliver releases centenary celebration book

In celebration of 100 years in the industry, Lowe & Oliver has commissioned and published a book outlining its history and the role played in the wider country’s electrification. Incorporating research from across the entire UK, it is focused on the southern counties. From its work with the royal family, such as involvement in the rebuild following the Windsor Castle fire, to providing airfield guide lighting during World War Two, enabling spitfires to land during the Battle of Britain. Fred Lowe, Director, Lowe & Oliver, comments, “Lowe & Oliver is celebrating 100 years in the electrical industry, an incredibly rare achievement and one which is almost unheard of, in such a competitive sector. “A painstaking amount of research was poured into this publication, providing intricate details about the development of both Lowe & Oliver and the electrical industry. As we approach another era of electrification, our centenary book gives a fascinating glimpse back in time, at the previous electrical revolution nationwide. “We’re planning to be as involved in the next electrification step as we were the last. “As a company, we have been blessed to work with so many wonderful individuals over the past 100 years. Whether that’s members of long standing staff or established names across the south. None of this would have been possible without their grit, hard work and good humour. I’d like to put on record, our sincere thanks to every single individual and company who has contributed to this successful centennial moment. “This book is a celebration of the previous era of electrification and the role Lowe & Oliver played in that. We all hope that you find it as fascinating as we have.”

Screwfix appointed to the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers

Screwfix has announced that it has been included in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers for 2023. The annual accolade is compiled by the Department for Education and celebrates England’s outstanding apprenticeship employers. The retailer has been ranked in 69th place after applying for the first time for this accolade. It has been recognised for its commitment to creating new opportunities, the diversity of apprentices, and the number of apprentices who successfully achieve their apprenticeships. Over 500 colleagues across the business have already completed an apprenticeship programme, ranging across areas such as retail management, customer service, HR management, finance and data. Apprenticeships are offered at all levels from level two apprenticeships to level seven postgraduate level apprenticeships. John Mewett, CEO, Screwfix, says, “To be in the Department for Education’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers for 2023 is massive recognition for the Screwfix leadership and talent team and I am incredibly proud of all our colleagues who have completed or are progressing in their programme. 83% of our colleagues who complete their apprenticeship get promoted to a new role and this is testament to Screwfix culture and how it encourages our colleagues to reach their potential. “More than 640 colleagues are now on their way to completing their apprenticeship, and I would like to wish them all the best in their future career at Screwfix.” With apprenticeships representing a vital part of Screwfix culture, the retailer is also committed to supporting trade apprentices across the UK and The Republic of Ireland. Earlier this year, it crowned Katie Jones, a heating engineer from Burscough, as the winner of Trade Apprentice 2023. The annual competition champions the new talent in the industry and shines a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

Financial climate affects tradespeople's expenditure

Tradespeople are spending over £1,000 on tools each year on average, but the cost of living crisis is dramatically changing their buying habits, according to new research. The study conducted by ElectricalDirect asked tradespeople about their outgoings on tools, maintenance and repairs, and found that the average total is £1,110 a year. However, this figure should be even higher, as almost a fifth of workers (19%) say they need to purchase new tools but can’t afford to do so because of the current financial climate. The amount spent on such costs varies significantly by trade. Caretakers and maintenance workers spend the most (£1,753 per year), followed by electricians (£1,546) and plasterers (£1,502). The trades that spend the most and least on tools each year, on average, are: No.  Trade  Average annual spend on tools  1  Caretaker/maintenance  £1,753  2  Electrician  £1,546  3  Plasterer  £1,502  4  Builder  £1,318  5  Joiner  £1,247  6  Roofer  £1,212  7  Building Surveyor  £1,022  8  Bricklayer  £964  9  Landscaper  £948  10  Carpenter  £804  11  Plumber  £769  12  Painter Decorator  £755  13  Locksmith  £608  14  Window Fabricator  £514  15  Scaffolder  £367  Almost a quarter of these costs (22%) are spent on maintenance and repairs (£246), but the research suggests that an increasing number of tradespeople are tackling these jobs themselves to reduce outgoings. Compared to before the cost of living crisis, around one in six (16%) are now more likely to repair their own tools, rather than paying to get them fixed. Scaffolders are most likely to fix their own kit, with a third (33%) doing it themselves. Furthermore, more than a quarter of tradespeople (27%) now keep their tools for longer to avoid paying for new ones, and one in seven (13%) even continue using damaged tools because they can’t afford replacements. Other cost cutting measures include reducing usage of power tools to lower fuel costs (30%) and buying second hand equipment instead of new (42%). Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at ElectricalDirect, says, “The cost of living crisis has affected tradespeople in many ways, and workers have had to adjust long standing habits in order to reduce bills. “However, it’s important that people don’t take any potentially dangerous risks, and using damaged or partially repaired tools can lead to major problems. There are many far safer ways to cut day to day outgoings, and that’s why we’ve partnered with experts to share practical advice.”

AEI Cables reviews fire safety cabling regulations

AEI Cables has sent a message to those making decisions about fire safety cabling under the new Building Safety Act 2022. From October 2023, buildings of at least 18m in height or with at least seven storeys, containing at least two residential units, will be deemed ‘high risk buildings’ and must be registered with the newly established, Building Safety Regulator. The registration must be made by the organisation or person who owns or has responsibility for the building, referred to as the Principal Accountable Person. Principal Accountable Persons could include housing associations, property management companies or individual managers or asset owners. A Principal Accountable Person who fails to register an occupied higher risk building without a ‘reasonable excuse’ will be liable to either a fine or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years. Stuart Dover, General Manager of AEI Cables, says, “Those who are deemed to be the Principal Accountable Person should recognise their responsibilities. There can be no compromise when it comes to the selection of cables for fire safety and they should always meet the legal requirement. If in doubt, they should always check the relevant level of performance required. “Ultimately, we are talking about the threat to lives and property, if the products installed in these tall buildings are not fit for purpose.” The Principal Accountable Person must have assessed all building safety risks and taken all reasonable steps to control them, give the safety case report to the Regulator on request, and apply for a building assessment certificate. The company has also been communicating the dangers of not following the technical guidance for the selection and installation of cables for Category 3 Control fire performance cables under the revised British Standard BS8519: 2020. The systems powered by these cables, including smoke and heat extraction systems, assist fire services in firefighting and a safe evacuation in the case of life safety. Category 3 Control fire performance cables reduce harmful smoke, toxic gases and flame spread in the event of a real fire. AEI Cables is a supplier in the UK with independent approval from LPCB for BS8519 Category 3 Control fire performance cables with a fire survival time of up to 120 minutes. Using the Firetec Total Fire Solutions range, it offers Mineral Insulated Cabling (MIC), Firetec Enhanced fire performance cabling, accessories and technical support from the AEI Cables distribution facility at Washington, Tyne and Wear.

Why is it important to request Type test certification? 

In this article, Contactum looks at some of the compliance requirements of BS EN 61439-3 and the responsibilities manufacturers have to fulfil before certification is granted. The company shares excerpts taken directly from its Defender 2 test reports.  Within BS7671, the Wiring Regulations, Regulation 421.1.201 states that “within domestic (household) premises, consumer units and similar switchgear assemblies must comply with BS EN 61439-3…” Certification to BSEN 61439-3 requires a variety of tests to be performed (listed below). Certification will only be granted on successful completion of each test. These tests are onerous and designed to prove the unit is able to perform way past its normal expected operational design characteristics.  Resistance to corrosion Verification of resistance of insulating materials to abnormal heat and fire due to internal electric effects Verification of protection against mechanical impact (IK code) Marking Degree of protection (IP code) Clearance and creepage distances Effective earth continuity between the exposed conductive parts of the assembly and the protective circuit Short-circuit withstand strength of the protective circuit. Conditional short-circuit test Incorporation of switching devices and components Internal electrical circuits and connections Terminal for external conductors Power frequency withstand voltage test Impulse withstand voltage test Temperature-rise tests Short-time withstand current test Short-circuit withstand strength test. 16kA test with fuse (Annex ZB) Dielectric verification Electromagnetic compatibility Mechanical operation Some of the tests are more critical than others, but all are mandatory for the unit to be certificated. Below, Contactum shares some of the more arduous tests carried out, directly from its reports.  Verification of resistance of insulating materials to abnormal heat and fire due to internal electric effects  The test was performed according to BS EN 61439-3, Clause 10.2.3.2. The test specimen is conditioned for at least 24 hours at a temperature between 15ºC  and 35ºC and a relative humidity between 45% and 75%. Once removed from the conditioning atmosphere, the test specimen is tested within 30 minutes.  The wrapping tissue and the wooden board to be placed underneath the test specimen are specified in 5.3 of IEC 60695-2-10. They are conditioned for a minimum of 24 hours at a temperature between 15ºC and 35ºC and a relative humidity between 45% and 75%.  The test specimen is considered to have withstood this test if there is no ignition, or if all the following situations apply:  a) The longest sustained and continuous flames or glowing of the test specimen after removal of the glow-wire extinguish within 30s b) The specimen is not totally consumed c) There is no ignition of the wrapping tissue The temperatures are as follows: 960 ± 15ºC for insulating materials supporting live elements (terminal connectors); and 650 ± 10ºC for insulating materials not supporting live. Temperature-rise tests  This test was performed according to BS EN 61439-3, Clause 10.10.2.3.5. The load distribution in the different tested panels, and the cables cross section, are shown in the table.  When this test is performed, a load is connected to the outgoing breakers as per the table. The temperature is monitored for heat rise.  The result: we have the full rating of board without derating the outgoing circuits.  Annex ZB of BS EN 61439-3 is a verification of the Consumer Unit to withstand a 16kA fault. This is specific requirement for consumer units used within UK installations.  When choosing Defender 2, you are guaranteed a quality safe and beautifully designed consumer unit which meets the stringent requirements of BS EN 61439-3. Third party type test certification is not a mandatory requirement, however, Contactum believes that when choosing Defender 2 you are guaranteed a quality, safe and reliable designed consumer unit which meets the stringent requirements of BS EN 1439-3.