83% of electricians experience mental health problems due to work

83% of UK electricians experience mental health problems due to work-related issues, a new study has found. The research was commissioned for Mental Health Awareness Week (15-21 May) by IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, and the results have been published in the third edition of their annual industry report. It found that 66% of electricians experience some form of mental health problem, such as stress, anxiety or depression every month, and sadly 20% feel symptoms every single week. Furthermore, 76% say they do not feel comfortable talking about their mental health with others, and only 20% have spoken about it with their friends or family. Across all trades, while financial worries remain among the leading causes of stress, the wider cost of living crisis is now the number one concern, with almost two in five (39%) saying it’s affecting their mental health. Almost two in five (39%) workers are now doing extra shifts as a result, risking burnout. The rising cost of materials is now also amongst the main stressors (36%), and tradespeople recently ranked the issue as the biggest challenge facing the industry in 2023. The top 10 most common causes of stress for tradespeople are: Cost of living crisis (39%) Rising cost of materials (36%) Finances (28%) Tensions with customers (20%) Doing the best job you can for customers (17%) Job security (14%) Tensions with suppliers (13%) Risk of catching COVID-19 (12%) Making mistakes at work (12%) Too much work (12%) Unfortunately, despite the benefits of doing so, more than four in five (84%) tradespeople don’t feel comfortable talking to others about their feelings. Just one in six (17%) have spoken to friends or family about their mental health. Furthermore, one in 10 (10%) worry what their colleagues would think if they told them what they were going through, and more than a quarter (27%) feel they can’t take time off work for mental health reasons. Builders are the most likely tradespeople to feel stressed or anxious on a daily basis (16%), but overall, mental health problems are most common amongst surveyors. Almost all of those surveyed (98%) say they experience issues at least once a year. The trades that are most and least likely to experience mental health issues at least once a year are: Building surveyor (98%) Carpenter (93%) Locksmith (92%) Caretaker (87%) Electrician (83%) Builder (82%) Joiner (80%) Scaffolder (80%) Window fabricator (80%) Plumber (74%) Landscaper (74%) Painter decorator (72%) As part of their campaign to raise awareness of mental health amongst tradespeople, IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect are partnering with Basildon Mind, the mental health charity, and is donating over £3,000 to support its vital services. Emma Mamo, Head of Workspace Wellbeing at Mind, says, “In male-dominated industries such as construction, employees are often less willing and able to open up about their mental health and ask for support. This can be problematic because mental health problems often become worse if left untreated, and the consequences can be fatal. “We urge employers to create cultures where employees can speak openly and honestly about their mental health.” Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, says, “It’s been an incredibly difficult few years for the country, and the current cost of living crisis is certainly taking its toll on many people. Our research shows that the trade industry and its brilliant people have been hit hard, and mental health problems are common. “As difficult as it might seem at first, it’s incredibly important that you talk to someone about your feelings, whether that’s your partner, a friend or family member, a colleague, or a professional. This can open the door to getting help and starting to address the problems you’re facing.”

Carhartt’s multi pocket and cargo work trousers

When it comes to getting the job done, work trousers matter and Carhartt's range of work trousers is designed to offer you specialist protection for every task, no matter how tough. Two highlights in the range are the Men's Relaxed Fit Multi Pocket Tech Pants (103337) and the Ripstop Cargo Work Pants (105461) - both are tough yet comfortable options that will have you covered from dawn ‘til dusk. Featuring Rugged Flex technology, these trousers are built to move with you, making it easier to bend, squat and stretch, and their midweight cotton blend means they work in any temperature. But it's the pockets that truly set these trousers apart. With pockets reinforced with Cordura, they are almost indestructible and offer ample space to keep all your tools within arm's reach. The Multi Pocket Tech Pants also come with two hanging tool pockets and a back utility pocket with a free hanging bottom for ruler storage. And when it comes to knee protection, Carhartt's got you covered - the Ripstop Cargo Pants have double front knee panels for extra durability while the Multi Pocket Tech Pants feature a double front for knee pads. Each pair comes in a range of colours, including black. So, say goodbye to bulky tool belts - Carhartt's range of work trousers help you keep all your tools to hand and are tough enough for every job.

Wholesalers ring the bell to help manufacturers

EDATA now has an extra data quality feature built in. If wholesalers suspect an error in a manufacturer’s product data, they can use a new alarm bell icon to raise a query that pings straight to the manufacturer. Richard Appleton, Head of Digitalisation at the EDA, explains, “Manufacturers must be in full control of how their products are presented, and fresh eyes and a feedback facility from the wholesaler is extremely useful. “We are constantly improving the user experience of the EDATA data pool and, as well as the bell feature, there are a number of other new benefits which help manufacturers when they are uploading and maintaining their product data. These include the option to search and filter their products by quality level - Gold, Silver, Bronze, or In Development - plus they can import data using BMECat 5.0.” EDATA currently holds product information for 193,000 SKUs. Wholesalers can download product data in bulk to populate their websites and drive ecommerce and other business systems, or in individual Product Data Sheets which are generated on demand. To date, 65 leading electrotechnical brands have subscribed to EDATA to disseminate their product information with multiple wholesalers.

Ellis Patents strengthens its quad squad

Ellis Patents has extended the appeal of its Emperor cable cleats by launching Emperor Quad. Initially designed as a bespoke solution for a defence project, the new variant was developed into a full addition to the North Yorkshire manufacturer’s range in response to a growth in the number of installations requiring heavy-duty quad solutions. The new Emperor Quad is available in seven sizes, covering cable diameters ranging from 19mm to 49mm. Its addition to the range means Emperor cable cleats are now available to suit single, trefoil and quad cable configurations. Kelly Brown, Ellis Patents Sales Director, says, “We’re justifiably proud of the longevity of our success - and we work extremely hard to maintain it. One of the key factors behind it is that we never rest on our laurels. Instead, we continually review our product range in the markets we operate in, and those we’re considering moving into. If we identify changing or new requirements, then we take the steps needed to meet them.” Manufactured in type 316L stainless steel, Ellis’ Emperor cleats feature an integral LSF zero halogen polymeric liner and base pad that protects and cushions cables during short circuit conditions. In addition, they are quick and easy to install - especially the Twist Foot options, which allow them to be secured into place in seconds with just the twist of a screw. “Market feedback is always key to Ellis’ product development, so it’s great to introduce a new product in direct response to customer demand,” adds Kelly. “We’re delighted that the launch of Emperor Quad has already been met with great enthusiasm from our customers.” [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rlSzDLZO5A&feature=youtu.be[/embed]

Vimpex welcomes Terry Mallarky

Vimpex is delighted to welcome Terry Mallarky, who joins the team as Regional Key Account Manager. Terry brings over 30 years of experience with life safety products and customers, and will be actively managing and developing OEM customers to achieve profitable growth and maintain relationships with key product, commercial and business managers. Head Of Evacuation Sales, Heath Cook says, "Having worked with Terry for nearly 10 years, i am looking forward to an exciting future with him on board.” Terry says, “It’s great to be part of an independent growing business that I can help - with my experience - to connect to many more customers and be part of Vimpex’s continuing success.”

2023 BCIA Awards winners revealed

The winners of the 2023 Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) Awards were announced at an exclusive ceremony and gala dinner on 4 May at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole. This year’s host was actor, comedian and impressionist Jon Culshaw, who entertained guests with a range of hilarious impressions, ranging from Boris Johnson to Donald Trump, and Steven Gerrard to Michael McIntyre. The ceremony itself welcomed the highest attendance yet for a BCIA Awards, with more than 600 guests enjoying fine food, drink, and evening activities, including curling and a game of ‘higher and lower’, organised by immediate past president Terry Sharp. BCIA President, Graeme Rees’ chosen charity is the Teenage Cancer Trust and an impressive £5,102 was raised on the night of the awards alone. All eyes were on the stage to see who the worthy recipients of the fiercely contested trophies would be. The first award of the night went to Detail Design Engineering who claimed victory for Building Controls and BEMS Installer of the Year. George Smith of 3MSe took the honours in the Engineer of the Year Category, while Abbie Bewley from InTandem Systems took the coveted Young Engineer of the Year trophy. New for 2023 was the Apprentice of the Year accolade, and it was Robert Drysdale of InTandem Systems who was victorious. Econowise Drives & Controls won the Energy Management Award for its work on Savills Energy Saving Project with the Best Service and Maintenance Provider accolade awarded to Kendra Energy Solutions. MK Electric scooped the prize for The Technical Innovation of the Year - Products Award for its innovative solution, Connected Power. Next, the Technical Innovation of the Year - Projects Award went to Siemens for its sterling work on University of Birmingham - Creating the world's smartest campus while Group Horizon were triumphant in the Contribution to Training Award. Finally, the Outstanding Contribution Award was presented to Tracey Rushton-Thorpe of Keystone Communications for being an integral part of the BCIA for many years. Tracey was recognised by her peers for her energy, ambition, enthusiasm and passion for the promotion of the building controls industry - particularly for her significant efforts on the BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship and industry training programmes. Graeme Rees, President of the BCIA, says, “The BCIA Awards 2023 provided another spectacular evening of glitz, glamour and the very best the building controls industry has to offer. The winners on the night came from some very impressive shortlists in extremely tough categories. It was fantastic to see so many guests enjoying the evening and once again the occasion underlined the quality, talent and innovation the building controls sector has to offer.”

Schneider Electric announces winner of Sustainability Impact Awards

Schneider Electric has announced that Leicester-based Michael Smith Switchgear is a winner of the inaugural Schneider Electric Sustainability Impact Awards. The rapidly expanding electrical control and distribution engineering company is one of six winners drawn from 241 entries worldwide, distinguished by their pioneering decarbonisation efforts within and beyond their organisations. Launched in 2022, the Schneider Electric Sustainability Impact Awards celebrates leaders prioritising innovation and decarbonisation. Partners can enter two categories: ‘Impact to My Customers’ and ‘Impact to My Company’, which recognise those who exhibit outstanding sustainability leadership. Entrants are assessed based on the successful implementation of innovations, products and digital solutions to electrify operations, reduce energy supply, increase operational efficiency, and embrace circularity across the value chain. Michael Smith Switchgear was recognised in the ‘Impact to My Company’ category based on its commitment to sustainability in all aspects of its business. The company was certified carbon neutral in 2022, having offset more than 137t of CO2e across its group activities in 2021. To reduce its energy consumption and use of raw materials, the company has digitised operations, adopted electric vehicles, and installed LED lighting and solar panels. It is continuing to work to align with the UN sustainability goals and is sourcing alternative materials for products and consolidating deliveries to reduce its carbon footprint. Other plans include a rainwater storage system and a 'green' roof. "My congratulations go to Michael Smith Switchgear, whose story of exceptional commitment and success is an inspiration to others embarking on their decarbonisation journey," says David Williams, Vice President, Transactional Businesses at Schneider Electric UK and Ireland. "Eliminating energy waste and being more energy efficient has a significant impact on an organisation's carbon footprint and helps to address the global energy crisis. However, no organisation is an island, so the Schneider Electric Sustainability Impact Awards has set out to highlight the valuable contributions of local and global partnerships," he adds. "We are delighted to be a global winner of the Schneider Electric Sustainability Impact Awards. This award is a testament to our team's dedication, hard work and unwavering commitment to decarbonising our operations. Sustainability is at the heart of our operations, and this is encouragement for us to build on our carbon neutral status and continue our good work," says Sean Smith, Managing Director for Michael Smith Switchgear.

Armorduct joins BEAMA

Armorduct has joined BEAMA to help develop the trade association’s next best practice guide for cable containment design, specification and installation. Dave Taylor, Technical Manager for Armorduct says, “This next best practice guide will be a significant document because since the last version - in 2014 - there have been some big changes in the standards. “Large volumes of cabling run through buildings to provide both electrical and data connections but the heat of fire can cause cable housings to fail and hidden cables to fall and become a hazard. “Since 2019 you have to adequately support all cables using non-combustible fixings to prevent premature collapse in the event of a fire, not just those on escape routes. “It means that specifiers and installers must select high quality products that will perform if there is a fire. This guide will provide advice on preventing such premature collapse.” Armorduct will also be involved in two further working groups as part of the cable management, cable tray and trunking group. One will be involved in product fire resistance testing and the other in the development of the revised product standard BS EN 50085. Dave adds, “As a proud British manufacturer we felt that it was vital to be involved in developing best practice, and also in setting future standards and regulations for cable management products. “Power and data are vital for an efficient and safe workplace, and it is important that containment systems provide a safe and reliable means of getting it to where it is needed. As such, we are delighted to be joining BEAMA and adding our voice to those of other responsible manufacturers to help maintain standards in modern installations.”

Welsh social housing developments fitted with PassivHaus ventilation systems

Two new social housing developments in Mid Wales are set to benefit from energy efficient, PassivHaus-compliant MVHR systems supplied by EnviroVent. Croft Court is a new complex consisting of 17 energy efficient apartments, while William Ainge Court is an existing residential block which is being extended to offer a further 16 dwellings. Both of the affordable developments are situated in Welshpool, a market town close to Newtown, Powys, in Mid Wales. Two of EnviroVent’s PassivHaus-certified ventilation solutions were specified for these developments by the main contractor Mid Wales Properties, working on behalf of Barcud, an organisation recently formed following the merger of Tai Ceredigion and Mid-Wales Housing association (MWHA). SL300 slimline units were specified for the Croft Court development, while energiSava 300 units were installed at William Ainge Court. The units were chosen because they achieved PassivHaus certification, as well as offering low energy consumption, reduced noise levels and a range of features. The SL300 features ‘constant flow’ technology and wireless, remote-control options, as well as having a low profile and compact design. With a height of just 310mm, the SL300 is suited to installations where space is at a premium. The energiSava 300 comes with summer bypass and preheater as standard. The bypass contributes to an improved comfort level in the warmer months and is controlled automatically by measuring indoor and outdoor temperatures. Its intelligent frost protection system with preheater guarantees high efficiency, even at extremely low temperatures. The units ensure that there is a supply of fresh, clean air, providing a healthier living environment for occupants of the new developments and preventing issues with condensation and mould growth. Mark Isles, New Build Manager for EnviroVent, explains, “Renowned for their energy efficiency and low maintenance, our PassivHaus-certified MVHR solutions are trusted by local authorities and housing associations alike. We pride ourselves on giving a high level of tailored customer service to contractors and developers, and feedback on the two developments in Welshpool has been very positive. The customer is hoping to install these same units on other new projects in the future.” EnviroVent’s engineers liaised with the project architects on deciding the optimum placement for the units, which can be either ceiling or wall mounted. Each unit has a five-year warranty, which is supported by EnviroVent’s team of in-house engineers. EnviroVent also provided on-site training for Barcud’s nominated installation teams, along with technical support via its dedicated helpline, which is staffed by qualified engineers. This ensured that the installation ran as smoothly as possible. As MVHR was a new technology for the residents of Croft Court and William Ainge Court, an EnviroVent ventilation specialist attended a tenant open day to give them the opportunity to answer questions on use of the units. Steve Bowen at Mid-Wales Properties comments, “We specified EnviroVent’s systems for these two new developments, due to the high performance and low maintenance of the units, as well as the technical expertise and support that the company provides. These apartments were designed to be highly energy efficient and airtight, so choosing the right ventilation system was essential to ensure good indoor air quality and low energy usage.”

Fergus urges trade to start concentrating on its work/life balance

Fergus is urging all trades to prioritise work/life balance in an effort to address the alarming rise in suicide rates and depression related to work issues in the industry. According to recent statistics, construction workers are at a significant risk of suicide, with rates 3.7 times higher than the national average. Additionally, the UK construction industry sees a higher rate of depression and anxiety compared to other sectors. It is time for the industry to take action and prioritise the mental wellbeing of its workers. Whether you are an electrician, builder, or plumbing and heating engineer, working in construction is a rewarding and important profession; it also comes with its own set of challenges. Tight deadlines, long hours, and intense physical labour can take a toll on your mental and physical health and it's important not to let work take over your life. Work/life balance is critical to maintaining good mental health, and it's vital for the construction industry to acknowledge this and take action. “It is essential that workers take action to prioritise work/life balance,” says Dan Pollard, Founder of Fergus Software. “We've seen a worrying trend in rising suicide rates and depression related to work issues in our industry, and we can't afford to ignore this any longer. It's time for construction companies to take a proactive approach to improving the mental wellbeing of their workers.” Fergus recommends several steps that construction companies can take to address the issues of work/life balance and mental health. These include: Foster open communication: encourage employees to talk about any issues they may be facing and provide support through employee assistance programmes or counselling services. Provide flexible working hours: offering flexible working hours or work-from-home options can help employees manage their workloads and personal responsibilities. Prioritise rest and relaxation: encourage employees to take breaks - don’t email or contact employees unless it is absolutely essential that you do. Promote physical health: encourage healthy habits such as regular exercise and a balanced diet to help employees manage stress and maintain good mental health. Educate employees: provide training and education on mental health issues and how to manage stress in the workplace. "If you are a business owner, stress levels can be ramped up with the pressure of running a business, such as making payroll, invoicing and ensuring cashflow is healthy,” says Dan. “There is a solution; by implementing job management software you can streamline workflows, automate administrative tasks, and simplify communication, allowing business owners to focus on improving work/life balance and promoting mental wellbeing - just by giving you more time to do the things you love doing."