Thorn Lighting announces upgrades to Oxane lantern

Thorn Lighting has announced that its Oxane lantern has been updated, with the new design combining the latest technology standards with a classic aesthetic. Oxane has long been a popular choice for illuminating roads and streets, Thorn tells us - and with its sleek, elliptical styling, it fits seamlessly into modern cities, major highways, and more traditional towns and villages alike. The new generation of Oxane enhances its classic aesthetic while incorporating the benefits of upgraded LED technology, ease of maintenance and Zhaga connectivity. The original Oxane designer, Sweden-based Zachau Design AB, has returned to update the design, and adding some modern flair in the process. Its streamlined, elliptical concept offers a new interpretation of a luminaire design that has stood the test of time. Hans Philip Zachau MSc, of Zachau Design, comments, “Identity, functionality, and vitality were the guiding principles in creating this luminaire. The first generation of Oxane made a statement with its originality and distinctiveness. The new generation will honour these values, not only by reflecting on its origins, but also by looking into the future. The new design is even more dynamic and slim, with crisp feature lines that accentuate the oval theme.” Oxane’s design is about more than just aesthetics, Thorn states. Circularity was a core principle in the design of this luminaire – starting with the packaging, which is entirely plastic-free. Furthermore, Oxane’s 100% recycled aluminium body uses a highly corrosion-resistant alloy, and all components can be replaced or changed, using a clever and robust tool-free opening system, for simple maintenance and upgrade. No glue is used throughout the manufacturing process, making it easy to manage end of life as well. Oxane is equipped with high performance LEDs able to still provide up to 98% of their initial output after 100,000 hours of operation, making it an ideal long-term product. A wide range of optics are available for highly efficient and comfortable light, exactly where it is needed, whether lighting a residential street, a busy road, a cycle path, or a pedestrian area. With optional Zhaga connectivity, Oxane can be combined with Thorn’s UrbaSens control platform for an even more tailored lighting offering. Light pollution and obtrusive light is a global concern, but Oxane responsibly leads the way with <1% Upward Light Output Ratio, optional internal louvres, a number of CCT options and NightTune compatibility. Thorn’s innovative NightTune technology automatically adjusts lumen output and colour temperature throughout the hours of darkness, balancing human needs whilst minimising ecological impact. For more from Thorn Lighting, click here.

ESP's Beacon disabled refuge range

ESP’s comprehensive Beacon disabled refuge range is being increasingly sought after by contractors working on larger, specification type projects. Meeting the requirements of BS 9999:2017 and Building Regulations Approved Document B, the Beacon range comprises a variety of products that are specifically designed to assist emergency evacuation situations in a wide range of buildings and venues – with the aim of assisting people with limited mobility to safely exit the building. The Beacon ‘Master Stations’ are the central point of the disabled refuge system, which combines Fire Telephone Handsets, Disabled Refuge Outstations and Emergency Alarms to form one fully integrated system. Master Station - There are two Beacon Master Station options available: a push button version with 2-8 lines, and a touchscreen version with capacity for up to 512 lines to support a wide range of communication devices. During an emergency, the Master Station identifies the location of the Outstation that has been activated, with clear duplex audio to assist an evacuation process. Disabled Refuge Outstations - Known as ‘Type B’ Outstations, these provide a fixed point of communication in a building for users who require evacuation or assistance. Situated in refuge areas usually found in protected stairwells, the Outstation provides duplex audio to the Master Station, which is located in the building’s control room, or at the access points for the fire service. Fire Telephone Handsets - Known as ‘Type A’ Outstations, these are for use by the fire and rescue service during an evacuation, allowing the officer at the fire control centre to communicate with other officers to control the evacuation. The ‘Type A’ Outstation activates a call to the Master Station to assist the fire and rescue service. Assist Call Range - This comprises a number of expandable three-part Assist Call Kits and accessory products which interface with the Master Station, identifying the location of the alarm upon activation. These include a Toilet Kit, as well as a Bedroom Kit suitable for hotels, residential and student accommodation. IP-rated modules are also available as part of the Assist Call accessories range, suitable for wet rooms and for areas of high moisture and humidity. The options include Call Button, Call Plate and Cancel Plate. ESP’s Beacon disabled refuge and assistance alarm range is supported by a dedicated, UK-based technical team, and will offer contractors and specifiers access to a free design service, compliant with the latest BS5839-9:2021 regulations. A brochure covering the whole of the Beacon range, along with examples of how the components of the system integrate is available to download from the ESP website and from the Scolmore Group app. For more from Scolmore Group, click here.

Vent-Axia launches smart, high-speed hand dryer

Vent-Axia has launched what it describes as "the next generation of hand dryer" with its new Tempest SmartDry high-speed hand dryer. A premium hand dryer, the Tempest SmartDry is designed with a built-in HEPA filter, antimicrobial cover, and patented noise-cancelling technology. Attractive and energy efficient, the Tempest SmartDry’s advanced technology features adjustable air speeds, and provides a short hand drying time. Available in black, white, and silver, the hand dryer is reportedly easy to service and maintain since it features a plug-in back plate and a smart LED indicator that monitors operation and maintenance status. Vent-Axia is committed to helping improve indoor air quality, health, and comfort in buildings. The Tempest SmartDry aligns with this commitment since it hygienically dries hands and helps to protect users against winter colds and flu. This is thanks to the built-in HEPA filter that removes over 99.9% of dirt, dust and pollen from the air passing through, as well as the innovative antimicrobial cover. The cover is infused with silver ions which eliminates bacteria and fingerprints, and has over 99.9% proven anti-bacterial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The sleekly designed Tempest SmartDry provides quiet, efficient drying with low power consumption of 700 – 1000W and a short drying time of just 10 to 15 seconds. It is also one of the quietest fast hand dryers available as its patented noise-cancelling technology minimises sound generation. Its clever air inlet design uses a narrowed air inlet of cover and back plate to maximise sound wave cancellation, delivering noise levels as low as 70dBA at 1m. Tiry Cheng, Product Manager at Vent-Axia, comments, “The unique, intelligent Tempest SmartDry is the next generation of hand dryer, providing users with cleaner air and a more hygienic, quieter hand dry. Add to that easy install and maintenance and the smart LED indicator which quickly and easily shows its operation and maintenance status and you have a great choice for both users and facilities managers.” Designed to be easy to install, service and maintain, the Tempest SmartDry features a plug-in back plate and smart LED indicator. The wall-mounted back plate allows the dryer body to be quickly and easily attached and detached without the need for an electrician, making hand dryer maintenance work much easier. A fixing template card is included in the packaging to make fixing the back plate straightforward too. Furthermore, air speed, sensor range and power output can all be adjusted easily with a Phillips screwdriver without the need to dismantle the dryer from wall, with an airspeed range of 63-91 m/s and a sensing distance range of 15-19cm. Meanwhile, the Tempest SmartDry keeps facilities managers informed too with its intuitive, colour-coded, smart LED indicator which displays operation and maintenance status to allow continued optimisation of performance. Four LED colours define the hand dryer’s status: white (ready to use), green (in operation), red (a reminder to replace the HEPA filter), and blue (a reminder to replace motor brushes). The extremely compact dimensions of the Tempest SmartDry (D130 x W184 x H296mm) make it easy to install in restricted spaces, Vent-Axia tells us. Weighing in at just 3.8kg, the Tempest SmartDry is IP24 rated, which adds to the installation versatility. The dryer also comes with a two-year warranty for further peace of mind. For more from Vent-Axia, click here.

BEAMA launches BEAMA 2050 Connected service

BEAMA has announced the launch of BEAMA 2050 Connected, a not-for-profit subscription service designed to unite the manufacturing, energy and built environment sectors in achieving supply chain and business decarbonisation by 2050, while promoting a circular economy. This initiative embodies the company's commitment to working 'shoulder to shoulder for net zero alignment'. BEAMA 2050 Connected offers subscribers access to essential resources, networking opportunities, and policy insights to help navigate the complexities of decarbonisation and sustainability in an informed, aligned, and consistent manner. By fostering collaboration across the entire supply chain, the subscription aims to accelerate and standardise efforts, ensuring a cohesive approach towards net zero and a circular economy. Yselkla Farmer, CEO of BEAMA, emphasises the importance of this initiative: "Our markets are at a pivotal moment. Government leadership and effective collaboration with industry are essential to secure a sustainable, competitive supply chain for the future. We are pinned as one of the largest growth sectors for the UK as we decarbonise our energy system – we need to do this sustainably. BEAMA 2050 Connected provides the framework needed to navigate the challenges of decarbonisation and seize the opportunities it presents." Amy Collins, Head of Net Zero & Clean Teach at BEAMA, adds, "The launch of BEAMA 2050 Connected marks a significant step forward in our collective journey towards net zero and circularity. By bringing together key industry players and stakeholders, we are creating a unified platform that supports sustainable growth to fill in the gaps and inconsistencies we all see across the supply chain." Industry leaders are already recognising the value of BEAMA 2050 Connected. Erika Wilson, Managing Director at Wilson Power Solutions, comments, "BEAMA 2050 Connected (B2050C) will be the platform that offers a coherent approach to support business to deliver the right products at the right speed to enable the UK to achieve net zero and a circular economy. In order that we are prepared, we must scale up our operations in a controlled way. "B2050C will guide and advise members of positive changes in policy, updates on critical interactions and decision-making with government [that is] so needed at this time. The realities of manufacturing and scaling up operations need to be shared with government so they can understand how shaping policy, and standards go hand in hand with the countries ambitions and its supply chain challenges." The subscription service will officially open for collaboration in April 2025, inviting companies to join, act and contribute to a sustainable future. For more information about BEAMA 2050 Connected and how to subscribe, click here. For more from BEAMA, click here.

NAPIT showcases the value of apprenticeships during NAW 2025

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) aims to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy. NAPIT says that it understands that for apprentices joining the industry, it’s essential they are equipped with the right skills and support. Celebrated annually, this National Apprenticeship Week 2025, which runs from 10-16 February, enters its 18th year and the theme for this year is ‘Skills For Life’.  Callum Tickner is the Facilities Maintenance Apprentice at NAPIT. The 28-year-old began his apprenticeship journey at the company in September 2024 after seeking a new opportunity. “It’s been a really good experience, you get to learn how the company works,” he says. “With the college side you learn the basics and build on your skills, but the best part of doing an apprenticeship is you get the hands-on experience as well as the theory side of it.” Callum was previously an electrical tester on trains. He unfortunately got laid off in March last year. He adds, “I tried to re-find myself in a different career path. I was working on trains and I wanted to still be on the tools. “It’s a big change working at NAPIT - you come in and you don’t know what to expect. I do the property maintenance, I change the taps, build desks and chairs for the office as well as the upkeep of the building. “I have been able to use a lot of different tools that I’ve never used before and learned the process of how to do things properly.” Six months into his apprenticeship, Callum reflects on what has been one of his proudest achievements so far when he was involved in the production of a solar PV rig. “I thought that was quite interesting. It’s a frame that was built, we did all of the roof tiling for that rig then we mounted solar panels to that as well. It was quite cool, I’d never thought I’d be able to do something like that. “I work with power tools and different materials, MDF and steel. It’s been nice to learn a lot of different skills and how to use different tools, a lot of my apprenticeship is to do with the training rigs at NAPIT.” Explaining his involvement in building the rigs, he continues, “It’s pretty much from the ground up, from building the frames themselves, painting the MDF and mounting and wiring the components. “It’s been eye opening and has given me a good insight into how it all works. After we have built it, it will be tested and then we will PAT test it. Then it will either go to a college or showroom, we have loads of different orders.” As well as working with apprentices at its head office, NAPIT works with a number of colleges and organisations in the UK through its initiative NAPIT Foundation, supporting apprentices, students and lecturers. Stephen Melton, Commercial and Compliance Director at NAPIT says, “We are pleased to be able to support National Apprenticeship Week which shines a light on the wide range of opportunities available to people considering an apprenticeship. “It’s important that training, upskilling or potentially new careers in different sectors are available to the new generation of workers and those looking for different challenges. “Apprenticeships will also play a vital part in our members ability to help government reach its intended net zero targets over the coming years, which is something all of us here at NAPIT are working towards.”

Contactum achieves EcoVadis Silver Medal

Contactum, a designer and provider of circuit protection products and wiring accessories, is demonstrating its sustainability credentials with the award of an EcoVadis Silver Medal. Ecovadis is an independent sustainability assessment platform, helping companies to identify and evaluate the effectiveness of their ethical and green practices across business operations and their supply chain. The EcoVadis methodology is based on international sustainability standards, and is supervised by a scientific committee of sustainability and supply chain experts to ensure reliable third-party sustainability assessments. Only 15% of businesses reach the Silver Medal award level, putting Contactum among the top performers for sustainable business. With over 150,000 companies having been assessed via the EcoVadis platform, Contactum states that this is a significant achievement. It was also the first time that Contactum had undergone the assessment, and the award was therefore based upon its long-standing business practices. It also highlights that Contactum was already operating at the required level without any prior guidance on areas for improvement from EcoVadis. EcoVadis measures four different pillars for sustainability – Environmental, Ethical, Labour & Human Rights and Sustainable Procurement. Under each of these areas, there are seven pillars and 21 evidence-based principles that every company undertaking the process is assessed on. Through this robust and comprehensive evaluation, EcoVadis allows for a more in-depth assessment than alternative schemes, which often focus on policies rather than practices. EcoVadis places 25% of the emphasis on policies, with the remaining split between 40% on actions and 35% on results, ensuring a real testament to award organisations who are putting into action what they state in their CSR commitments. A large part (60%) of the results are based on a 360° search on the company. These 360° Watch Findings analyse thousands of external compliance databases to identify pending fines, breaches of regulations, or pending sanctions. This includes information from the European Economic and Social Committee, European Agency, Greenpeace, WWF, European Court of Human Rights, CSR Europe, Business in the Community and trade unions. Furthermore, once initially assessed, the 360° Watch Findings continues to live monitor the organisation in anticipation of their next audit, which means no stone is left unturned, and further solidifies Contactum’s long-term commitment to continuous improvement and transparency. When compared to similar companies, Contactum outperformed the typical scoring. The average score for manufacturing companies is 50%, and Contactum scored 85% - putting it ahead of many competitors and comparable businesses. When compared to all companies assessed, the average score is 45.1%, further demonstrating how Contactum is outpacing many other businesses and leading the way in their processes and commitment. Of the overall assessment, Contactum is in the top 8% of companies rated by EcoVadis in the manufacturing of other electronic equipment industry. Daniel Hewson, CEO at Contactum, says, “We were thrilled to achieve an EcoVadis Silver Medal on our first assessment. This is normally an aspirational level once you understand your business and can implement the changes recommended by EcoVadis. “This has given us real impetus to continue driving better sustainability across our processes and practices. We’re motivated to keep improving and pushing for even greater environmentally-sound ways of evolving and operating at Contactum.” Baiju Rajguru, Quality Manager at Contactum and lead for the EcoVadis assessment, adds, “This unbiased third-party assessment gives organisations and end-users peace of mind that Contactum seeks to go over and above regulations. Not only have we demonstrated our values and commitment, but we want to continually improve, as we will see in our next annual assessment. “We firmly believe that if businesses are not sustainable now and making strides to improve their efforts and practices, they will not exist in the future.” For more from Contactum, click here.

SELECT calls for greater regulation of the electrical industry

The head of Scotland’s largest construction trade association, SELECT, has insisted that politicians must not “repeat the mistakes of the past” by ignoring the need for regulation of the electrical industry. Managing Director, Alan Wilson, says that a new timeline released by the association to mark its 125th anniversary showed that the UK-wide sector had been calling for protection of title as far back as during the First World War. Yet despite repeated pleas for regulation, successive governments have refused to act for more than a century, SELECT says – and Alan says that continuing to turn a deaf ear would be “another black mark in history”. Alan takes up the story: “Our new timelines shows that the association asked the UK Government in 1917 and 1939 to introduce registration of electrical businesses to ensure quality and the highest safety standards. On both occasions the request was declined, and so it has continued. “It is bewildering to me that the issue of rogue operators was raised by our founders more than 100 years ago, but despite numerous pleas ever since, nothing has been done. “Are there no unqualified tradespeople out there any more? No dangerous installations putting the people of Scotland at risk? I think we all know the answers to that. “Our ancestors clearly had the wisdom to know that electrical miscreants were a danger to the industry and the wider public. It’s just a shame that generations of politicians haven’t shared that sentiment or had the foresight to tackle a problem that’s only grown worse with the rise of renewable technology and untrained ‘six-week wonders’ cashing in on the unwary public.” Backed by MSP, MPs and fellow industry bodies, SELECT has been spearheading a long-running campaign for regulation of the electrical industry, but still no action has been taken. Writing in the most recent issue of the association’s magazine, cabletalk, Alan noted, “I’m not sure whether to be surprised or depressed that this problems still exists, or to just put it down to human nature and an unwillingness to change if no one forces us to. “Now, more than ever, it’s vital that we continue the crusade started by our founders and keep fighting for regulation and protection of title for the profession of electrician. “Surely we – and by we, I include politicians – must learn our lesson and not repeat the mistakes of those who have previously rebuffed the genuine case for regulation. To do so would mean another black mark in history.” SELECT’s campaign, in partnership with the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB), Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) and Unite the Union, aims to make it a statutory offence for someone to call themselves an electrician when they have no, or inadequate, qualifications. The Scottish Government had previously set up an Electricians Working Group to explore the challenges and two consultations on regulation have also taken place, while the SELECT Wall of Support continues to attract new backing. SELECT President, Mike Stark, adds, “Our campaign has now attracted a massive groundswell of support, but the urgent need to protect the public from the activities of unscrupulous traders is becoming ever clearer. “Electrotechnical work is extremely complex and it is of primary importance that the professionals who carry it out are fully trained, fully qualified and up to speed with the most recent developments and regulations in the sector.” For more from SELECT, click here.

Jefferson Tools introduces ‘Tool Up’ campaign

Jefferson Tools, a supplier of professional tools and equipment in the UK and Ireland, has launched its new 'Tool Up' campaign. Running from February to 30 April 2025, this initiative is designed to offer value via a wide array of seasonal offers designed for professionals in construction, agriculture, electrical work, and the automotive industry. Tool Up provides tradespeople with an opportunity to stock up on the equipment they rely on most during the early months of the year. Jefferson Tools has carefully selected products that cater to the specific needs of various industries. “Our mission is to ensure that customers stay efficient and well-equipped for the challenges of winter and spring projects,” says Darren Binns, National Sales Manager at Jefferson Tools. “From V-pump compressors, ideal for maintaining machinery in agricultural settings, to socket sets that offer essential versatility for mechanics, engineers, and tradespeople - every product has been chosen with the professional in mind.” For those in automotive and workshop environments, the campaign highlights the Nemesis range and the iR75 Jefferson Tools Infrared Heater, offering reliable solutions for professional use. Also as a part of the campaign, Jefferson Tools is inviting tradespeople to participate in an exclusive competition with premium prizes up for grabs. Simply shop the Tool Up promotion and enter online for a chance to win. The first prize, a 170 Bar Electric Pressure Washer, is a must-have for both professionals and domestic users. Second prize is a 2-Level Workshop Trolley, a practical addition to any workspace, while the third-place winner will receive a Five-Tread Multipurpose Telescopic Ladder. Winners will be announced on 1 May 2025 via the company’s Facebook and Instagram pages. Jefferson Tools warmly encourages tradespeople across the UK and Ireland to explore the exclusive offers available and enter the competition for a chance to win these prizes. Discover the full range of Tool Up offers by clicking here. For more from Jefferson Tools, click here.

Renewable training provider launches recruitment drive

Renewables training provider, GTEC, is on a mass recruitment drive, looking for 65 trainers to join its rapidly growing team. Following its part acquisition by the United Living Group (ULG), GTEC has expanded at a pace, with centres nationwide, including partnerships with other industry specialists such as City Plumbing, SolarEdge, Weinerberger and Midsummer Energy. Demand for renewables training is growing year on year. 2024 was a record-breaker for heat pumps and battery storage systems in particular, a trend that is only set to continue. GTEC has always been at the forefront of upskilling the installer-base to meet the demands and market potential of a low carbon future, being one of the first centres to specialise in renewable technologies nearly 20 years ago. Now, thanks to ULG's backing, the company is primed to help more engineers take advantage of the business opportunities offered by the transition to net zero, including new subject areas, such as the recently added online Heat Networks introductory course, which is currently fully funded. What GTEC needs to push its plans forward is trainers from the building services and construction sector, with time served experience and recognised qualifications to help fulfil the demand for heat pump, battery storage, solar PV and other mechanical, electrical and civil engineering courses. The ideal role for existing installers looking for new challenges and maybe a break from the tools, successful candidates will help develop and deliver training from GTEC's approved centres nationwide and on-site, supporting businesses, including ULG, in upskilling their teams. Suzanne McNamara, Talent Acquisition Business Partner for ULG, says, "GTEC is at a really exciting point in its history, and is perfectly placed to take the next steps to developing its position as the leader in renewables training in the UK. It is an ambitious, forward thinking and rapidly evolving company looking for new recruits that share its passion for building services and construction, in particular areas of these sectors relating to renewables and sustainability. "If you've got experience in the trades, know how to motivate people and share your knowledge, and you're looking for a career change with plenty of scope for growth, then we'd love to hear from you!" To apply for the job, click here. Could you be a GTEC Technical Trainer? GTEC is looking for Technical Trainers to help develop and deliver high-quality courses in the low carbon and/or construction sectors, including heat pump, battery storage, solar photovoltaic, mechanical and civil engineering qualifications, as well as bespoke training programmes to meet the needs of individual organisations. Suitable candidates will have a background in related construction trades, ideally with experience in low carbon technologies. A proven track record as a technical trainer or mentor would be an advantage, but is not essential. Becoming a GTEC Technical Trainer would also suit tradespeople looking to down tools and pass on their skills and knowledge to others. The role offers a competitive salary and opportunities for career progression, with positions based throughout the UK. For more from GTEC, click here.

Vent-Axia supports implementation date for Awaab’s Law

Vent-Axia has welcomed the UK Government setting a date of October 2025 for Awaab’s Law to be introduced across the social housing sector. The law was initiated following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, due to a mouldy home. Awaab’s Law is part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act and is set to impose strict requirements on social housing landlords to investigate and resolve issues of damp and mould within specified timeframes, helping residents gain faster repairs and reducing health risks. It marks the biggest change in social housing rules in a decade, aiming to prevent future tragedies and improve tenant safety. In a statement by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, published on 6 February 2025, it was revealed that from October 2025 social landlords will be required to address damp and mould hazards that present a significant risk of harm to tenants, within fixed timescales. From the same point in time, they will also have to address all emergency repairs, whether they relate to damp and mould or any other hazard, as soon as possible and within no longer than 24 hours. Other hazards, apart from damp and mould will not be introduced until 2026 at the earliest. The Government is set to shortly publish further detail on Awaab’s Law and guidance to support implementation. The statement follows the latest English Housing Survey which recently revealed in 2023 5% of dwellings in England had a problem with damp, higher than in any of the last five years (3-4%). But serious condensation was more prevalent in homes (3%) than rising damp (2%) and penetrating damp (2%). Within the social rented sector, local authority dwellings were more likely to have serious condensation (7%) than housing association dwellings (4%). The data reveals that there is still a significant damp and mould problem in social housing in the UK which needs to be solved. “We welcome the Government setting a date to introduce Awaab’s Law since it gives clarity for social housing landlords. No one should live in a home with mould and damp and landlords have a duty of care to their residents to help ensure they live in a healthy environment. Addressing mould and damp is not only about complying with regulations but crucial for safeguarding residents’ well-being”, says Natasha King, Product Manager at Vent-Axia. “Effective ventilation is vital to improve indoor air quality and tackle condensation and mould. At Vent-Axia we have been advising on ventilation since 1936 and we work with landlords to help them choose the right ventilation for their individual property so they meet their duty of care.” Vent-Axia will be publishing an eBook, Ensuring Safe Housing Conditions: Focusing on Mould and Damp Conditions, to give guidance to social housing landlords on Awaab’s Law and how to tackle condensation and mould.