Globus Group launches new PPE range

Globus Group has launched a new range of face masks to protect workers against extremely hazardous substances found in the workplace, including sawdust, engineered wood dust, and respirable silica dust. The new design provides improved comfort and fit to help encourage good PPE compliance. Prolonged exposure to hazardous substances over an extended period is known to be extremely harmful, with workers in the construction industry at a particularly high risk. Construction is a high risk industry for health issues and has the largest burden of occupational cancer amongst the industrial sectors. Construction-related cancers account for over 40% of occupational cancer deaths and cancer registrations. The Alpha Sentinel range has been designed for superior fit and comfort for workers, especially those wearing the masks for long periods of time. Lead Product Designer, Josh Moffat, says, “When it came to designing the Alpha Sentinel range, we really tried to prioritise the end user. We know that workers are often wearing these masks for long periods of time, and so focusing on comfort and fit means that they are more likely to be worn correctly and workers can be confident that they are getting the right protection.” He continues, “Looking beyond fit and comfort, we know that another big reason for PPE non-compliance is masks getting too hot, so we have designed our unique large exhalation valve to minimise heat and moisture build-up. We really believe that the design innovations we have been able to make with the Alpha Sentinel masks are going to make a huge difference to the workers using these products every day.” The Alpha Sentinel range comes with a range of changeable filters to protect against solid particulates, liquid particulates, gases, and vapours, and are suitable for use in a wide variety of industry settings.

IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect raise £10,000 for Beacon Hill Academy

IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect have proudly donated £10,000 to Beacon Hill Academy. Employees from the companies have undertaken a number of initiatives to raise funds for the community academy. Beacon Hill is a special academy based in Thurrock for students between the ages of two and 19 who have severe and complex learning difficulties. Described by Ofsted as ‘an inspirational learning community’, IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect selected Beacon Hill as part of its mission to help and support local causes and charities. By organising various activities and events, the company was able to raise £10,000 for the academy and Steve MacPherson, Head of the WOW Team at the company, presented Beacon Hill with a cheque earlier this month. The WOW Team is a group of employees from each department who work together to organise company events, charity events and represent all employees across the business. As part of its efforts, the team took part in bake-offs and cake bakes, as well as a Christmas raffle to win prizes obtained from the company’s suppliers, which contributed over £4,000 towards the funds. Additionally, the company organised a sponsored cycle, where nine energetic employees cycled a total distance of 152 miles, raising £1,200. Steve MacPherson, Head of the WOW Team at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect says: “A huge part of our culture is giving back to the community and supporting worthwhile causes where we can. We are pleased that the money we have raised will help Beacon Hill Academy continue its excellent work and provide pupils with the new sensory room that they will all be able to enjoy full use of.” Amanda Bradley from Beacon Hill Academy says: “We are very grateful to the staff at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect for their support in raising this fantastic sum for us. The donation has enabled us to create a voice-activated sensory room, which is due to be completed at the end of this year and will include, to name but a few, a sound and light floor, LED light sources, a bubble tube and even a heated waterbed. This sensory room will make a huge difference to the students we help, and in particular those with a visual impairment. We are very excited for the students to be able to start using this wonderful new space.”

Scouts partner with UK Power Networks to bring energy conservation home

A new partnership with the Scouts will bring energy conservation and a sense of community home to thousands of young people across the UK. UK Power Networks is supporting the Cub Scouts' ‘Environment Conservation’ badge with fresh new activities designed to give skills for life. Through fun and thought-provoking pursuits, the aim of the partnership is to empower young people to make a difference at home and in their communities, as they consider how people use energy. It is particularly relevant as energy prices continue to rise this winter. UK Power Networks provides practical tips on how to save money and be more energy efficient, including giving youngsters a chance to create their own ideal ‘future city’ to help earn the badge. The inspiring partnership will raise awareness of UK Power Networks’ Priority Services Register, which offers people living in vulnerable circumstances free extra help and support in the event of a power cut, and will also a look at the work being done to tackle rising fuel poverty. Cub Scouts will learn how the UK can reach net zero by studying energy solutions for a low carbon future and will keep energy diaries to record changes in their own energy use. Cody Prior, Partnership Co-Ordinator for UK Power Networks, says: “By working together with the Scouts we can show young people more ways to help support vulnerable friends and family, develop greater care for the environment and address their own evolving energy needs. “This badge takes them a step above and beyond what is perhaps the usual level of understanding for their age group. The Scouts are interested in environmental issues, not just for the greater good of the planet but also to bring in considerations around fuel poverty and how to avoid it in future. “We hope many of the participants will become ambassadors to help make their community safer and greener. They can sign up their families, elderly relatives, and disabled friends for the Priority Services Register as well as learning about new energy opportunities for a greener and low carbon future. We would like the Cub Scouts to enjoy themselves earning the badge, and be advocates for change.” Kathy O’Brien, Partnership Manager of the Scouts says: “This fantastic partnership supports the Scouts in our aim to show young people how to step up and take their place in society, by being responsible consumers of energy but also in making an impact in their community by spreading the word about the Priority Services Register and encouraging people in their communities to sign up and be aware of the services available to them.”

Brixton bus garage gets net zero boost

Environmentally-friendly buses are operating from a South West London bus garage, thanks to a new electricity connection. UK Power Networks has completed work at Arriva Brixton to enable new electric buses to charge overnight, with the project representing a major contribution towards reducing local pollution levels, while helping to enable the UK’s transition to net zero. The delivery team installed new cables to provide additional power at the garage, which will deliver supplies for 22 electric buses operating on route 319 from Streatham Hill to Sloane Square in London. The work has reduced running costs for the bus garage, which is able to charge its new fleet when local electricity demand is very low. Irvine Nyamapfene, Project Manager at UK Power Networks, says: “This is bringing another breath of fresh air to Londoners, and we are pleased to be playing a key part in the city looking forward to a greener future.” Chiara Lorenzetti, Engineering Programme Manager at Arriva Brixton, says: “Access to power is an essential step on the journey towards decarbonisation and we were delighted to partner with UK Power Networks who effectively played such a key role in enabling the delivery of zero emission journeys for Londoners using our new electric routes.” UK Power Networks has enabled more than 500 buses in the capital to turn electric over the last few years to help meet the government’s 2050 target of net zero emissions. Louise Cheeseman, Director of buses at TfL, says: “These works at Brixton garage are helping to drive forward our zero-emission bus agenda, giving bus operators the capacity to charge the significant number of vehicles now operating in London. London has one of the largest and greenest fleets in the world, but we won’t stop until every single one of the capital’s buses is releasing zero emissions. With their smooth, quiet journeys and innovative features, zero emission buses don’t just help reduce the effects of climate change and improve air quality - they help to make our city better for everyone and offer a great alternative to the car when getting around town.”

Electricity market reform must promote clean energy, says ECA

ECA has called on the government to make sure our energy is taxed fairly, and generation of clean electricity is stimulated through flexible arrangements. Responding to a consultation by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), ECA identified three key reforms it says will lead to low-carbon, cost-effective and secure energy for households and businesses. These are: To increase investment in green, local technologies, which will reduce consumer costs and create greater energy security To make the supplier landscape more flexible, which will alleviate demand on the grid To reduce fuel levies and connection costs on electricity generated through green technology ECA’s Energy and Emerging Technologies Solutions Advisor, Luke Osborne says: “Today’s energy market - the system that determines how our electricity is produced, distributed, and priced - has served us well since it was last reformed in 2010. Our carbon emissions from energy generation have dropped by 70%, and faster than any other G7 country.” “But it does not suit today’s needs, which are very different compared to 12 years ago. Energy price rises, uncertainty of supply, and slow uptake of renewables are holding us back. Wholesale reform is urgently needed now: more green investment, more grid flexibility, and fewer levies on renewables will jump-start our move towards net zero electricity that works for everyone, and that everyone can afford.” The consultation, submitted on 10 October, will be used to establish a longer-term solution to the cost-of-living crisis exacerbated by rising energy prices. ECA’s response will play a crucial part in determining the outcome of the consultation, and the decisions the government makes moving forward.

B.E.G goes green with greenhouse gas emissions certification

B.E.G. saved more than 30,000kg of greenhouse gas emissions and almost 500t of resources in one year, as it looks to positively contribute to the global issue of tacking climate change. The German lighting controls manufacturer has made using recyclable materials a top priority and was awarded the green certification by environment services provider, Interseroh. The company has been developing tailor-made, integrated environmental services for businesses since 1991. Interseroh worked specifically with B.E.G. on preventing waste and conserving resources on the design and manufacturing of its products. B.E.G designs innovative bespoke lighting designs which are safe and easy-to-use, contribute to energy savings and reduce climate emissions. Its range includes occupancy detectors, motion detectors, sensors and actuators, controlling lighting, room temperature, air quality, ventilation and shading automatically. Paul Jones, Sales Director of UK and Ireland at B.E.G. says, “B.E.G. was able to save 31,742kg of greenhouse gas emissions and 488t of resources in 2021 by working with Interseroh. B.E.G. are proud to contribute to environmental protection by using recyclable materials and are already looking forward to further cooperation and more savings.”

SELECT salutes ‘important step’ as bill is laid before Scottish Parliament

SELECT is celebrating a major step forward in its fight for regulation of the electrical industry after a bill was laid before Scottish Parliament which could lead to ‘protection of title’ finally becoming a reality. Scotland’s largest construction trade association has welcomed the bill lodged by Conservative MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston, who has worked tirelessly in the campaign to protect Scotland from poor and potentially dangerous electrical work. If passed, it could enshrine in law the professional status of electricians, making it a statutory offence for someone to call themselves an electrician when they have no, or inadequate, qualifications. Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, says: “This has been a long journey which is not yet complete, but this is an extremely important step on the road towards ‘protection of title’. “The bill will be scrutinised by legislators and other experts but, given the outstanding levels of cross-party and cross-discipline support that the campaign has already achieved, it is to be hoped that the logic of our argument will be accepted.” The bill will now go to a committee stage for examination then, if it proceeds, to two further amendment stages. If it is passed, it will then be sent for Royal Assent, where it will be turned into a binding Act of the Scottish Parliament. Alan adds: “More than 100 professions, including gas engineers, are protected in law - but not electricians, who carry out extremely complex work which is vital to the smooth running of our society. It is an anomaly which is ripe for rectification.” Jamie says: “Electrical safety is vitally important. Every year, there are incidents of shocks and fires caused by electrical malfunctions. It is important that people carrying out electrical work are qualified and able to do so.” The bill follows a groundswell of backing for regulation, with a host of MPs, MSPs, industry and individual electricians rushing to sign SELECT’s Wall of Support, which showcases the politicians, professional bodies and electricians behind the crusade. The latest signatory was former Scottish Government Minister Fergus Ewing, who added his name beside another high-profile political supporter, SNP MP Owen Thompson. The campaign has been spearheaded in partnership with the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB), Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust and Unite the Union. It says that, as well as greater safety and improved consumer confidence, a cautious estimate of net financial benefits to Scotland from proper regulation of the electrical industry would be around £58 million. Fiona Harper, The Secretary of the SJIB says: “There has been widespread and supportive backing from all across the construction industry and the wider public for SELECT’s stated position that regulation of electricians is an issue of public safety and it’s clear that the profession should be protected by the full weight of the law.”

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: support from the EIC

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, when people all over the world show their support for those affected. There are around 55,900 new breast cancer cases in the UK every year, with women over the age of 50 affected the most. It’s the most common cancer in the UK and accounts for 15% of all new cancer cases. Men can also get breast cancer, but it is much rarer. John had been a self-employed electrician for 10 years and living in Scotland. His partner Kate had been undergoing treatment for breast cancer for the previous two years and was now in recovery. As part of her treatment regimen, Kate had gone through a gruelling course of chemotherapy, and this had negatively affected her energy levels. Due to the long-term side effects of her treatment, she often had days where she was entirely bed bound. John and Kate had two young children, but Kate struggled to look after them during times when she was on her own and John was away from the house working. As a result, John felt compelled to make the decision to stop working. His reasoning was that not working would give him the ability to stay at home and support the family in whatever way they needed. Since John had stopped working, Universal Credit had become the family’s main source of income. However, it didn’t cover all their household outgoings. John reckoned he was 'a few hundred' behind on the rent payments and he was also struggling to pay back a loan. The family were struggling financially. The EIC stepped in to help John and his family with a financial contribution. This was to ensure they’d all be able to remain in their rented family home while Kate recovered and John wasn’t working. The thinking today is that breast cancer is likely caused by a combination of genes, environment and lifestyle. While one in every seven women in the UK will go on to develop breast cancer at some point in their lifetime, the survival rate beyond 10 years is now at 76%. As a society, we need to get this higher. Currently, John is hoping he will be able to complete the 18th Edition wiring regulations and get back to work as a self-employed electrician. Self-employment would give him the flexibility his family needs and enable him to begin financially supporting his family once again. The help John was able to access is due to the support of the EIC and the powerLottery. It means his family got the financial support they needed to get on top of their bills and remain in their rented home. Without powerLottery, the EIC would not be able to offer support to people like John and his family. powerLottery is the only lottery made for the electrical industry by the electrical industry. It gives players 40 chances to win cash prizes ranging from £50 to £1,000 every single month. A £10,000 draw bi-yearly gives you even more opportunity to win big. A new car, a holiday in the sun, a kitchen re-fit or a brand-new wardrobe - think of all the different ways you could spend £10,000.

Devitech and Fuuse deliver destination and workplace charging

Devitech has joined forces with Fuuse to offer user-friendly charging for hotels, hospitality, leisure, and workplace environments across the UK. Devitech is dedicated to helping businesses begin their sustainability journey. The brand aligns with Fuuse’s core values to facilitate the efficient roll out of electric vehicles across the UK by removing barriers to transition through smart technology. Fuuse’s flexible EV charging platform enables Devitech to offer complete bespoke solutions for its commercial clients. The platform can be fully configured to meet business needs by setting comprehensive access controls, multi-tariff management, remote charger maintenance, energy monitoring and smart charging all from one back-office system - regardless of hardware. Graham Rowlands, Managing Director of Devitech, says: “We aim to make EV charging as hassle free as possible. It’s a whole new world for many businesses and we seek solutions that will streamline the process and not over-complicate the customer experience. Fuuse marries a user-friendly interface with clever and comprehensive functionality - enabling us to provide clients with exactly the setup they need for their business, whilst keeping the platform easy to manage and intuitive to navigate." Dan Street, Business Development Manager for Fuuse, says: “It’s great to be working with Devitech alongside many of our hardware partners and suppliers. Together we can provide future-proof EV charging solutions for businesses and fleets with a team who share our vision for making the EV transition as seamless as possible.”

Workers celebrate at UK Power Networks’ best-in-class ceremony

Engineers and office staff from UK Power Networks have been celebrating their achievements at the company’s annual awards. The Living Our Values Awards are designed to honour employee achievements that align with the company’s vision and values. The team which led a £14 million upgrade to a substation in Leicester Square, headed by project managers Jason Gunning and Pamela Ali, have worked tirelessly to keep work site neighbours and visitors informed throughout the two-year project to replace three huge transformers ahead of schedule and under budget. The team pulled together to make sure they minimised the impact on Londoners and tourists, this led to them winning the Outstanding Project (Infrastructure) Award. Pamela says: “It is rewarding to know that our colleagues have recognised and empathised with the complexities of this project. So many of our colleagues, from our own support services to all of our colleagues in the other directorates, have all been part of the jigsaw puzzle to make this work. Many people have shown an interest and have come to site to see what we’ve been doing - it’s great that their takeaways from it have been as positive as ours.” Sepair Zalmai, Compliance Advisor, won the Everyone Matters Champion Award and was hailed for his approach to diversity and inclusion. He comments: "It's genuinely a great feeling to be recognised for the Everyone Matters Award. My role allows me to work with different teams across the business. What I love about this is the opportunity to work with a diverse network of people who are commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. Everyone brings their own stories to work, so it's great that I can continue to learn and increase my awareness of different topics. I have always been passionate and involved with diversity and inclusion activities so it will be great to celebrate this by winning this award." Other winners included Chris Knightly who won the Influential Engineer Award. He was lauded for his valuable insights to develop new solutions in innovation projects for the business. Engineers Richard Blackmore and Shaun Hirst won the Fitting Duo Award for their works on the underground electricity network and tunnelling projects. Basil Scarsella, Chief Executive of UK Power Networks, adds: “We take this opportunity to recognise the commitment and dedication of our employees, and the contribution they make to their local communities. The Living our Values annual celebration sees every part of our business represented for the different contributions they make to keeping the power flowing for the homes and businesses we serve.”