THE WIRE mental health episode hits the spot with contractors

NICEIC has now responded to the increasing need for mental health support amongst electrical contractors, dedicating an episode of their hit webinar series THE WIRE to the topic. Danny Mouskovias, NICEIC's Learning Design and Delivery Manager, who led the session, says: "It is a fact, mental illness is a plague that blights our industry more so than others. Statistics now show that electrical sector workers are 34% more likely to be diagnosed with a complex mental illness. "This is why it was so important for us to support to our contractors, and given the numbers in attendance, and the comments received, it seems that we have hit the spot which is really great." Focusing on identifying the signs and symptoms of mental ill-health, the session provided practical steps and advice to help manage stress and anxiety. Delivered in a relaxed, yet informative way, Danny also touched on how to open up conversations around mental health in order to support those around you. "We are delighted with the feedback we have received following our session on mental health" comments Sarah Hunter, NICEIC Marketing and Events Manager. "Typically, THE WIRE focuses on providing technical CPD, giving our customers with the technical tools they need. However, supporting our customers in other areas, such as health and wellbeing is just as important, and this event has helped do just that which is fantastic." Check out what some of contractors had to say after the session, below: "Please get this guy in at least once a month. I feel better already. Thank you." "This mental health CPD module and the presenter has been one of the best so far." “Wasn't sure about tonight's webinar at first, but so glad I watched it. A very important subject, excellent presentation, and helpful. Thank you."

Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity offers free support to combat sleep deprivation

Friday 18th March is World Sleep Day and the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity is partnering with Sleepstation to offer free access to support for anyone in construction suffering from insomnia or poor sleep health. Easily accessed through the Construction Industry Helpline App, Sleepstation is an NHS approved service aimed at improving support with insomnia and poor sleep health, but sadly it can be a postcode lottery on whether you can easily access the services free of charge. The charity is offering the clinically proven sleep improvement programme completely free to charge to help address poor sleep in the industry. A good night’s sleep helps us deal with stress, improves resilience and optimises our immune system but the very nature of the work in construction lends itself to poor sleep quality and quantity and the issues affect all levels, from the site operatives through to management level. Key sleep facts in construction Over 80% of construction workers in the UK are not getting enough sleep. The construction industry has one of the highest rates of psychosocial health problems, including fatigue and burnout. The UK construction industry ranks third for the highest average hours worked per week. Only 14% of construction workers in the UK work fewer than 40 hours a week. 44% of construction workers in the UK travel around 2-3 hours a day to work and back. Sleepstation looks at the underlying reasons why people are having problems and has been proven to address even the most severe sleep issues. Dedicated support teams deliver a plan that reflects the issues identified and there can be significant improvement in just four sessions. It has also been shown to be far more effective than pharmaceutical interventions. Sleepstation offers: An understanding of what is normal and what constitutes sleep deprivation A personal sleep assessment and expert analysis Confidential advice and reports Support from an expert team who offer personal advice. Sarah Bolton, Director of Charitable Services for the charity says, “We launched Sleepstation in autumn of last year and it has been very successful, but we really want to ensure that everyone in construction knows about and has free and easy access to this fantastic resource. We already know that construction workers work in an environment that can be incredibly stressful and emotionally challenging.  Add to that, the complications of irregular shift patterns, long working hours, early starts and demanding workloads  and it’s not difficult to see why our construction workforce are at such high risk of sleep fatigue. With our app’s latest addition, within a few moments, users can access the highest level of support without lengthy waiting times to get an appointment with their GP or a GP referral, it’s really that simple”. [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDuz5UGZhSk[/embed]

Legrand announce partnership with Michael Smith Switchgear

Legrand has announced that Michael Smith Switchgear is now an approved partner for the use of Zucchini transformers and busbars in the assembly of their switchgear systems. Michael Smith Switchgear specialises in bespoke solutions in the building services market. Supporting electrical contractors, the Leicester-based switchboard manufacturer installs their systems across warehouses, distribution centres, schools, hospitals and airports. The partnership will see busbars and transformers installed into Michael Smith Switchgear’s systems, meaning customers will no longer need to source additional parts and services from multiple manufacturers. Zucchini busbars have a wide range of ratings up to 6300 A, meaning not only is this new partnership convenient for clients, but also offers power distribution components to match a wide variety of requirements. Commenting on the development, James Archer, National Sales Manager at Legrand, says: “We have worked with Michael Smith Switchgear for more than 15 years and we are very excited about the opportunities this new partnership will bring. As a company that prides itself on its sustainability commitments and first-class customer service, we believe this will be a fantastic partnership with two like-minded companies.” Sean Smith, Managing Director at Michael Smith Switchgear comments: “We pride ourselves on our commitment to the environment and to our customers, supporting them throughout their journey from initial consultations, installation, and maintenance. Partnering with Legrand UK and Ireland, who have a stellar reputation, will better empower us to deliver great products and services to our clients.”

New heat pump training centre opens in the North East

Go Green Training Academy has opened its doors to deliver qualifications in the installation, servicing and maintenance of Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs), helping tradespeople in the area take advantage of growing demand for low carbon, cost-effective heating. Go Green Training is the brainchild of Brian Weir and Lee McCann, who have over 40 years of ASHP installation experience between them. Around 35,000 air source heat pumps are installed in the UK each year but, by 2030, the government has set an annual target of 600,000 as part of its ambitions for the UK to become carbon neutral in 2050. To stimulate this growth, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is launching in April, which will offer up to £5,000 towards the cost of an ASHP. This, coupled with increasing concerns about the cost of fuel and energy, mean heat pumps and other renewable technologies are set to become a common part of our homes and businesses. At the moment, there are simply not enough trained installers to meet predicted ASHP demand. Go Green Training Academy will help plumbing and heating engineers take advantage of this marketplace, delivering fully certified LCL Awards ASHP qualifications. Director Brian Weir comments: "We are on a mission to upskill installers in the North East with the training they need to take advantage of the expanding renewables sector. "We want to be at the forefront of training the next generation of air source heat pump engineers across the North of England and Scotland." Tracy Harker, Quality Assurance and Relationship Manager at LCL Awards says: "LCL Awards is delighted to be working with Go Green Training Academy and can see that their facilities offer a great learning environment. Lee and Brian are experienced trainers/assessors with a fresh approach to course delivery. There are plans in place to offer a range of renewable technology qualifications. We wish them every success with this new venture." In addition to expert trainers, significant investment has helped to make the facility one of the best in the UK. Training will be delivered by directors Brian Weir and Lee McCann, who have installed over 100 air source heat pumps for their heat pump installation business, Clear Climate. This means Go Green students are not only guaranteed the very best facilities, but training from engineers and lecturers with an abundance of expertise in the industry. Government funding is available for air source heat pump training and Go Green Training is in talks with several North East colleges with regards to incorporating this training into the curriculum of relevant courses. Open day - 25 March Businesses and individual installers can learn more about the facilities at Go Green Training at its forthcoming open day. The event is free to attend, taking place on Friday 25 March, and can be booked on Eventbrite.

Janus Technology introduces Control4 driver for Niko

Janus Technology has designed a new driver which will allow the seamless integration of Niko’s cost-effective range of lighting, blind, security and HVAC control solutions into a Control4 system. “We are delighted to be able to introduce this Niko Home Control driver for Control4 onto the market,” comments Richard Caton, Managing Director at Janus Technology. “Niko Home Control offers many benefits to customers and is well-known for its reliable, affordable and intuitive range of smart home technology solutions. It has been installed on many residential properties but, with this new Control4 driver, we can help broaden that range of applications, whether the Niko technology has been fitted by an electrical contractor or the Control4 dealer.” “This Control4 driver brings much more choice and greater opportunity for contractors and dealers who like the Niko functionality, aesthetic and value for money that we can provide on a projects,” adds Andy Moss, Managing Director at Moss Technical, the exclusive distributor of Niko in the UK. “There’s now the flexibility to use Niko for one or more of the building control system elements on a project where Control4 is the AV control platform used by the customer, and the main interface for the system. Janus has developed an excellent driver with smooth, feature-rich integration into Control4. It is a game changer for the smart home market.” Niko Home Control includes a complete range of wired and wireless controllers, switches, sockets, detectors and interfaces, enabling electrical contractors and integrators to build an attractive, easy to operate and effective smart home system for their clients. The Control4 driver developed by Janus Technology allows comprehensive access and two-way control into all aspects of Niko’s range of lighting, blind, security and HVAC control systems that can be deployed in a smart home. To learn more about Niko Home Control, its capabilities and this new Control4 integration, visit the Niko team at the forthcoming series of CEDIA Tech Summits. Niko will be attending the Edinburgh (9 June 2022) and London (21 June 2022).

Bureau Veritas urges EV industry to prepare for smart charge changes

Bureau Veritas is urging electric vehicle charge point suppliers to prepare for new legislation coming into effect in June. The Electric Vehicles (Smart Charge Point) Regulations 2021 come into effect on 30 June, having been signed into law in December 2021. The legislation stipulates that all electric vehicle charge points sold in Great Britain for private use (at either a home or a workplace) are regulated to help manage the increase in electricity demand from the UK’s transition to electric vehicles. From June, the regulations will ensure that charge points have ‘smart functionality’, allowing the charging of electric vehicles to take place when there is naturally less demand on the grid – such as during off-peak times, or at times of high renewable energy generation. In the current energy crisis, Bureau Veritas is supporting the new regulations and the introduction of smart functionality to EV charge points; not only to reduce the pressure on the grid, but also as a means of saving consumers money and ensuring EV uptake continues at its current pace of adoption as we head towards a net zero economy. Michael Kenyon, Head of Electrical Technical Development at Bureau Veritas, says: “There is no doubt that energy smart appliances – including EV charging systems – will support in the transition to a low carbon future. “Currently, EV chargers draw electricity ‘on demand’, however the introduction of smart technology will ensure that demand can be balanced efficiently between both the network and the consumer – particularly as the rate of EV adoption intensifies. For the utility suppliers, this reduces the need to invest in costly infrastructure updates. For the consumer, it offers savings on energy bills, and the assurance that optimum supply of electricity is available without impacting on existing power utilisation within the home. “What’s more, using smart technology will support is preserving the quality of an EV battery, preventing over-charging and subsequent damage to costly components. “With the new The Electric Vehicles (Smart Charge Point) Regulations 2021 applying to any EV charger sold for private use from 30 June, it is crucial for all suppliers to be preparing for change now. As with all regulatory changes, there is a need to fully understand the impact and requirements of complying with new standards – which is where working with a competent third party, such as Bureau Veritas, can help. “My advice therefore is to not wait for changes to come into force, but to prepare and plan for them now to meet the new requirements head on.”

Carl Kammerling launches 2022 'Fusion' promotion

Carl Kammerling is giving the electrical trade another reason to have access to the best tools for the job through its 2022 Fusion. Live now and running until the 27 May 2022, Fusion is offering electricians and electrical contractors a welcome discount with 170 products on promotion across the C.K Tools, C.K Magma, C.K Classic, Avit and Kasp Security brands. With discounts of up to 54% at participating stockists, CKI is also making five new products, two new tool kits and three exclusive bundles available for a limited time only as part of the deal, rendering this the business’ most standout Fusion promotion to date. Mark Raines, Head of Marketing at CKI, says: “With more than 200 years of industry expertise we understand the importance to our customers of having the right tools that they can trust, for the right job, at the right price. Fusion is our way of giving something back to the industry and ensure customers can either keep some funds back in their pocket or get more products for their budget – and you can’t say fairer than that.”

Screwfix puts tradespeople front and centre

Screwfix has unveiled branding that shines a light on the professionalism, skill, and dedication of the nation’s tradespeople. The Choice of Champions puts Screwfix customers (those who fix, build, maintain and repair) at the fore. The campaign includes powerful and authentic portraits of genuine tradespeople to draw attention to their skills, dedication, and strength. Jack Wallace, Director of Marketing at Screwfix, says: “We know our tradespeople are super tuned professionals. They go the distance, they train, they practice, they hone their skills. “Through our campaign we’re delighted to be celebrating tradespeople like never before and representing them as the true champions that they are.” Screwfix has shown the value of tradespeople for years through its renowned Screwfix Top Tradesperson and Trade Apprentice competitions, which receive thousands of entries and shine a light on the skills, expertise, and professionalism of those established and upcoming within the trade. Screwfix also connects tradespeople with customers who need home improvement help through its partnership with Needhelp. The Choice of Champions brings to life the expertise of plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and more across all channels including TV, social media, digital, and out of home advertising. Positioning skilled tradespeople front and centre, the imagery incorporates straplines such as ‘rise, rewire, rest, repeat’ and ‘it took blood, sweat and tears to hone my skills’, to humanise the hard work tradespeople carry out every day, their dedication, and their skill. [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1O8_BV4HsY[/embed]

Graeme Rees announced as new President of BCIA

The BCIA has announced Graeme Rees as its new President. Graeme takes over from Terry Sharp who has held the role for the past two years, while Paul Wetherfield will take Graeme’s place as Vice President. Graeme is currently the UK & Ireland Digital Energy Marketing Manager for Schneider Electric and has been involved in the building controls industry for more than 30 years, after starting his career as a Project Engineer, he later moved on to Bristol Management Systems before spending 19 years at Trend Control Systems, where he worked his way up from Regional Field Services Manager to Marketing Director. Early in 2019 Graeme was elected on to the BCIA’s Management Committee and he will now use his years of experience gained in industry to build on his predecessor’s work in building on the BCIA’s position as a leading influence on standards, professionalism and innovation for its members. Paul Wetherfield is the CEO of Global Associates, a company which he joined in 2013 to drive growth by taking a long-term approach to creating a business that will stand the test of time. Paul’s passion is driven by the lack of young and talented engineers within the industry, and he has shaped Global Associates around the development of young apprentices. On his tenure as President Terry Sharp says: “I would like to thank everybody for their hard work and assistance during what has been an unpredictable two years for reasons outside of our control. It now gives me great pleasure to pass the baton on to Graeme who is not only a great friend but also a hard-working and very knowledgeable colleague. I am extremely grateful for the help and support he has provided in his two years as Vice President, and I wish him the very best of luck in taking the BCIA forward.” On his appointment Graeme Rees comments: “It is a huge honour for me to become President of the BCIA and I would like to thank Terry for helping to ensure the industry stepped up in response to what was and remains an uncertain time. The roll out of the BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship during his term will also help secure a key starting point for anybody looking to carve out a career in what can be a hugely rewarding industry. Looking ahead, I wish to build on Terry’s good work by tackling several issues and themes in order to keep the BCIA moving in the right direction.”

New Wisenet Viewer 1.0 makes managing multiple video sources easy

Hanwha Techwin has launched Wisenet Viewer 1.0, a new NVR/DVR viewer that makes it simple to view and manage different video sources through one interface. Wisenet Viewer 1.0 is designed to make video management easy and works with all Wisenet recorders. It removes the need for a dedicated server to manage all video sources, leading to cost reductions and helping to preserve existing investments without new licences or replacing all recorders. Multiple video views Through Wisenet Viewer 1.0, operators can view multiple applications on multiple monitors including web pages and images, monitor live videos, search and play recorded videos, and set event rules like alarms, video and audio analytics, face detection, tampering, and object detection. The software supports Windows and macOS operating systems. Easily adapted Operators can easily adapt Wisenet Viewer 1.0 to their needs with custom layouts that can include multiple tabs and windows. Video files can be easily organised and resized with a few clicks. User permissions can also be set and removed through the software. Raising the bar Uri Guterman, Head of Product & Marketing for Hanwha Techwin Europe says: “Our aim is to continuously raise the bar for video surveillance and help our customers innovate with video technology. The Wisenet Viewer 1.0 will support these goals, making it easier for organisations to manage different video streams, triggered events, and, overall, gain greater intelligence of events happening on-the-ground.”