CMD delivers agile working solution with new 65W capsule

CMD has developed an ideal on desk workstation module for agile working and hot desking environments, with the launch of Capsule Plus. Building on the popularity of the Capsule workstation power module, which provides a stylish and compact fixed format solution available from stock, Capsule Plus offers up to PD65W of charging power, enabling USB laptop charging. With two power sockets, along with type A and C USB fast charging, Capsule Plus enables a plug and play approach to hot desking, with ample power distribution for powering or charging two devices at once. Stephen Roberts, head of sales at CMD comments: “Most commonly used laptops require 25-50W of power to charge them, depending on their specification, so our 65W Capsule Plus offers ample to charge both a laptop and a mobile phone at the same time. Where two devices are drawing power simultaneously, the type C charger takes priority, providing up to 45W of power, with the remainder distributed through the type A connection. “As more companies move to an agile working model, allowing people to combine working from home with hot desking in the office, the convenience of being able to power up with a simple cable will be increasingly important. The launch of Capsule Plus continues our focus on developing solutions that respond to evolving working practices, serving the office interiors market and the end user.” Available in a choice of black or white, the Capsule Plus includes two empty keystones for retrofitting of HDMI and USB keystone couplers, enabling data or A/V connectivity within the power and charging module. The Capsule Plus specification also includes two resettable 3A circuit breakers and a pre-installed 1.5m lead to male GST Wieland connector, which can be used to connect directly to the female GST socket on CMD’s Elite+ or Conti under desk workstation modules. Alternatively, Capsule Plus can be connected directly to a UK plug socket using an additional starter lead. Capsule Plus is supplied with a c-clamp to fix the module to any desk thickness between 11mm and 30mm, making them suitable for a wide range of furniture choices. Stephen Roberts adds: “The new Capsule Plus rethinks the capabilities of one of our most popular on desk workstation power modules, offering specifiers even more solutions within the CMD Ltd range to meet the changing needs of office occupiers. It provides the perfect solution to align workstations with the latest generation of devices and workplace routines and continues our track record in delivering high quality  products.”

The CICV Forum is recognised in parliamentary motion backed by MSPs

Members of the Scottish Parliament from all the main parties have paid a remarkable tribute to the ongoing work of the Construction Industry Coronavirus (CICV) Forum as the unique collective continues to support the recovery of the country’s construction sector. MSPs from the SNP, Conservatives, Labour and Liberal Democrats have backed a motion tabled by Labour politician Monica Lennon, congratulating the Forum for the support, guidance and advice it has delivered to the sector throughout the pandemic. The unusual acknowledgment recognises the speed and vision with which the Forum was established as the effects of the COVID-19 shutdown became apparent and the uniquely collaborative model it created to bring the sector together in a time of unprecedented crisis. It acknowledges that, “by bringing together all the major trade and professional bodies, the CICV has pooled industry expertise and knowledge to represent the interests of Scotland’s diverse construction supply chain with one consistent voice”. It also notes that, as a legacy issue, the Forum’s success has meant that its membership – made up of more than 30 trade associations, professional services bodies and companies – has agreed to continue its activities post-pandemic for the wider, long-term benefit of the industry. Ms Lennon, who represents Central Scotland and was a key contributor to the Forum hustings in April 2021 says: “When the crisis began in 2020, the CICV Forum acted with speed, efficiency and clarity of purpose to become the first port of call for people in the construction industry in Scotland to come to for help and advice. “The many strands of the sector came together to build a dynamic organisation which showed collaboration, commitment and a determination not only to save the sector but to improve and expand it. “The collaborative model has been the foundation stone of a new way of working in the construction industry and it is to be warmly welcomed that the Forum will continue with its massive contribution to the sector even as the immediate threat recedes.” The motion was supported by the SNP’s Clare Adamson, Colin Beattie Kenneth Gibson, Bill Kidd, Ruth Maguire, John Mason, Stuart McMillan and David Torrance, Labour’s Claire Baker and Paul Sweeney, Conservatives Alexander Burnett and Murdo Fraser and Beatrice Wishart from the Liberal Democrats. The motion came as the Forum released its latest piece of open source guidance – a practical checklist that will help employers identify and help safety-critical workers who may be suffering the ongoing effects of Long COVID. Alan Wilson, CICV Forum Chair and Managing Director of electrical trade association SELECT, says: “The support of our legislators has been a continual encouragement for the CICV Forum and we would like to thank Monica for placing this recognition formally on record. “The way people came together, as soon as the scale of the crisis became apparent, to offer their help and expertise at a time of uncertainty and confusion was enormously gratifying. It quickly became clear that the Forum spoke for the entire sector. “Its work will continue as we move through the recovery phase and it will continue to provide updated guidance to a sector of vital importance to the economy, which employs 175,000 people and contributes £21.5 billion to GDP.”

Chris Bielby MBE steps down from NAPIT Group board

Chris Bielby MBE will step down as non-executive director of NAPIT Group after 10 years. Chris brought his extensive industry knowledge and experience to the role and played an important part in growing the profile and enhancing the reputation of NAPIT Group. The NAPIT Group is a rapidly expanding Group of companies, founded on the core principles of efficiency, integrity, and innovation. Over the last 10 years, the NAPIT Group has diversified and expanded its portfolio to include, certification software, bespoke training solutions, MCS and PAS accreditation and has seen membership levels of its UKAS accredited, Government authorised Schemes double to over 15,500. When asked about Chris’s impact as a non-executive director, Mike Andrews CEO of the NAPIT Group comments: ‘Chris’s knowledge, connectivity and experience has undoubtably had a positive impact on the business as it stands today. His advice and guidance has been a huge benefit to the Board and I’d like to publicly thank him for his dedication and commitment over the last 10 years.’ Joining the gas industry in 1972, Chris started his career as a gas engineer before moving into other operational and senior managerial roles. Chris has held many high-profile positioning including the chair of the Advisory Board and APPCOG Stakeholder Forum, a past President and Fellow of the Institution of Gas Engineers & Managers (IGEM). He has spent the past 25 years tirelessly lobbying and canvassing support for gas safety issues, particularly around carbon monoxide as chairman of the Gas Industry Safety Group, Gas Safety Trust and the Gas Task Group. Commenting on his time as a non-executive director of the NAPIT Group, Chris Bielby says: ‘Playing a part in the growth, development and advancements of NAPIT Group over the last 10 years have been an absolute pleasure. Being able to share my wealth of experience from my work within the Gas Sector allowed me to not only provide effective challenge, but to also draw similarities and connect likeminded people for the greater good. It has been a delight to work with such a passionate team, and this can be seen company wide. I am thankful for my time on the Board and wish the NAPIT Group continued success for the future.’

Megger gears-up for hybrid working with desk booking software and thermal imaging

Megger is gearing-up for a move towards hybrid working by introducing Juggl Desks from Sorce - a solution to allow employees to pre-book office desks. Following a period of testing by the IT department at its Dover head office, Juggl Desks will be rolled-out to the Dover site from the end of November 2021, with a possible global move. Megger has ensured its Dover office is COVID-safe with measures that include the introduction of thermal imaging systems for checking employees’ and visitors’ temperature when entering the offices. The systems typically measure surface skin temperature faster than forehead thermometers, and don’t require a close distance between the operator and the person being evaluated. In addition, corridors and communal areas are  taped and if necessary, reconfigured, to adhere to social distancing; and hand sanitiser stations are prominently positioned throughout the office. “Megger closely monitors the government guidance on COVID restrictions, and ensures these are used as a minimum, with many instances of Megger retaining measures to continue to support the wellbeing of those on site” says Jo Vass, Digital Workplace Manager from Megger. “It’s important that staff feel safe and protected and so our hybrid working plans have been carefully considered and are now being robustly implemented.” Megger has 1550 staff globally with 350 at its Dover head office. Pre-pandemic, the Dover-based employees had allocated desks and in most cases attended site full time. However the pandemic has led to a hybrid working arrangement being implemented in line with each department’s requirements, in which staff will be attending the office as and when necessary. Socially-distanced hot desk areas are therefore being created, allowing for a more fluid working environment, with much fewer desks than previously. Vass says, “Those who could work from home during the pandemic did, meaning that only essential front-line staff were on site. As more employees are now slowly returning to the site, we need to ensure a smooth and controlled transition without compromising staff welfare.” Megger selected Juggl Desks from Sorce to facilitate desk bookings because it’s very simple to administer and use, allowing employees to quickly and easily pre-book desks from any device. The solution also provides a holistic view of who is going to be in the office at any one time, allowing employees to plan catch-ups with colleagues while workplace managers can more effectively manage office occupancy levels. “Introducing Juggl Desks is key to our hybrid working plans”, says Vass. “With it being so intuitive to use for both administrators and users, pre-booking desks will be effortless, giving employees the peace of mind that when attending the office they’ll always have a desk reserved for them. ” Megger has been closely involved in defining the functional requirements of Juggl Desks and testing the user experience. The company will work closely with Sorce on the product roadmap to ensure the software continues to meet its requirements.

myenergi launches competition to win one of 10 zappi chargers!

myenergi has launched a competition to give away 10 state-of-the-art zappi devices. Running between 20 October–20 November in collaboration with Co Charger, ‘random zaps of kindness’ will see deserving members of the public receive a free zappi to be used as a community charge point. Whether a charity group, care home, sports club or even your next-door neighbour, myenergi and Co Charger are welcoming applications from across the UK. To submit your entry, just say why your community nominee deserves a little boost. The 10 lucky winners will be announced on Green Friday (27 November). It’s a simple way to ensure local heroes get the recognition they deserve and give them, and their community, a helping hand to go electric, while also providing a potential income that could contribute towards further development of the community. Jordan Brompton, co-founder and CMO at myenergi, comments: “In the run-up to the busiest season for purchasing new tech, we wanted to break the cycle and give away a selection of myenergi products for free. With so many people deserving of a little boost after a tough 18 months, it would be almost impossible for us to choose – so we’re asking for your help! “It could be your local village hall, your postman, your elderly care centre or almost anything else – there’s so many local heroes, charity groups and community initiatives that could benefit. What’s more, by nominating them, you’ll help us give something back to the individuals and groups that deserve it the most.” Joel Teague, CEO at Co Charger, adds: “At Co Charger, we’re committed to bringing communities together. With our clever app, you can share your EV charging device with your neighbours, who may not have access to their own driveway or domestic charger. “Partnering with myenergi for the ‘random zaps of kindness’ campaign will not only reward those who are really doing something special within their local community, but also create 10 hubs for shared charging across the UK.”

DW Windsor rejuvenates Bridlington seafront with bespoke lighting solution

On the East coast of Yorkshire, Bridlington is a popular seaside destination for days out and family holidays. A popular coastal resort since the early 19th century, Bridlington features two award-winning beaches and an attractive seafront with panoramic views of Bridlington Bay to the north.  Lacking any major redevelopment for almost three decades, the seafront’s public spaces were in need of regeneration. So in 2019, East Riding of Yorkshire Council embarked on an ambitious £4m project to transform an area between Garrison Square and Regent Gardens, reinvigorating the space with an exciting new, colourful look.  Crucial to the revitalisation plan was the installation of new lighting elements within the communal areas. Renowned lighting design practice, Sutton Vane Associates, was appointed by engineering consultants Sweco to design a lighting scheme that added vibrancy to the site whilst also providing a practical benefit after dark.  To help realise their creative vision for the location, Sutton Vane Associates commissioned outdoor lighting specialist, DW Windsor, to develop a custom lighting solution to fulfil the new design.   DW Windsor worked with Sutton Vane Associates to create several completely bespoke, illuminated totems that formed the centrepiece of the new lighting scheme. The totems are lit from top to bottom and incorporate colour-changing functionality, which can be set for different purposes, such as celebrating holidays and calendar events.  In addition, Sutton Vane Associated specified DW Windsor’s inground linear lighting solution, Vaio, to further enhance the walkways along the seafront. Given the coastal location, the lighting needed to withstand highly variable weather conditions. Vaio is a fully encapsulated IP67 LED system, ensuring its robustness even in these extremities.  Discussing the project, Guy Bolton, Special Projects Co-Ordinator at DW Windsor, says: “Seaside locations are always a joy to work on, whilst bringing some unique challenges. Thanks to our extensive portfolio, we were able to offer robust lighting that can withstand the elements and vehicle traffic.”  Edward Sutton-Vane from Sutton Vane Associates adds: “Bridlington is a much-loved seaside resort. The seafront area has been completely brought to life by Sweco’s excellent landscape engineering, complemented by a range of lighting elements specified by Sutton Vane Associates, including the coloured light totems produced by DW Windsor.  “By working closely with DW Windsor, we achieved a fantastic result that both the local council and residents are delighted with. The seafront now has a new lease of life as a fun, vibrant space in the day and an attractive, colourful location at night.”  

NEXT EV charger launched

The new Webasto NEXT charging station features the renowned Webasto award-winning sleek design as well as a state-of-the-art management system that allows digital connectivity and control. “The NEXT literally takes EV charging to the next level,” comments James Cowan, Webasto European Head of Sales for Electric Vehicle Charging and E-Mobility Services.  “This new charging station can be used for all types of new build and retrofit projects and will provide enhanced management for commercial or shared units.” Equipped with the European standard Type 2 plug, the NEXT has a charging capacity of up 22kW and, similar to the entire Webasto range of chargers, is available with a cable length of 4.5m or 7m. Differing amp levels can be set during installation to better match the charging current to the existing infrastructure available. In addition, the NEXT has an integrated DC residual current protection, negating the need for a separate RCD type B circuit breaker. It also provides authentication using a ‘Scan & Charge’ system which is easily accessed via scanning a QR code. James continues: “The functionality of the NEXT is enhanced by Charge Connect which is a data management system developed by our team of experts. It gives control to the charging unit users, accessed via an app, they can look at energy consumption and charging history from anywhere and at anytime. It also allows for charging station updates to be carried out online, which saves both time and costs and creates an EV charger not just for now but for the future.” For installers, the NEXT boasts an intuitive set up process and is enhanced with the Webasto Charger Setup App, which can eliminate errors from the start. “Webasto is synonymous with high-quality forward thinking products. The NEXT is one such product that is designed to support a range of charging needs from individual to multiple units and, with a future proofed management system, the NEXT is a charger that will stand the test of time,” concludes James.

Birmingham is home to the best electricians in the UK

Electricians in Birmingham have an average review rating of 9.82/10 - the highest of anywhere in Scotland, England, Wales or Northern Ireland. Homeowners in Birmingham have the best chance of securing the services of an electrician with excellent reviews, new research from SGS Engineering has found. SGS looked at the number of specialist tradespeople listed on TrustATrade, CheckaTrade and Rated People and calculated where in the UK the most highly rated plumbers, builders, electricians and painter/decorators are based. In Birmingham there are currently 305 electricians listed online in total, with an average rating of 9.82 out of 10 – the highest score of anywhere in the UK. London was close behind, with its electricians earning a very high average rating of 9.7 out of 10. At the bottom of the table is Cardiff. City Number of Electricians Listed Average Rating Birmingham 305 9.82/10 London 1,158 9.70/10 Nottingham 193 9.20/10 Sheffield 168 9.20/10 Swansea 28 9.20/10 Preston 126 9.19/10 Coventry 281 9.16/10 Glasgow 34 9.15/10 Liverpool 143 9.14/10 Manchester 191 9.14/10   Across the UK, the rating is reassuringly high, sitting at an average of 9.12/10. Perhaps unsurprisingly, London is home to the most builders with 1,158 listed. Many homeowners are reportedly facing a battle to secure a highly rated tradesperson in their area, as over a third of households (35%) tackle a major renovation project this year. The average spend on a home makeover is coming in at £15,461 per property in 2021, with the most popular jobs being replacing the kitchen (40%), renovating bathrooms (38%), and redesigning the living room/reception spaces (31%). Though the cost of work is the most common concern when booking a tradesperson (67%), the majority (51%) also specifically look for ‘highly rated workers with plenty of positive reviews’. Other aspects that are taken into consideration before booking a professional include the quoted start and completion dates for the project (42%), the tradesperson’s proposed hours of work (25%), and available payment plans (19%). Dave Gordon, General Manager at SGS Engineering comments: “The way that we live was turned on its head when the coronavirus pandemic first hit and spending more time at home triggered a desire to adapt and improve our living spaces. “It is encouraging to see that the British public are choosing to opt for tradespeople with great references. It’s also encouraging that so many tradespeople up and down the country are clearly doing great work and earning excellent reviews from their clients.” SGS’ top tips on securing a highly rated tradesperson: Read online reviews Check out what other people are saying about them first. That doesn’t mean that you should panic at the sight of a single bad review, but if a tradesperson is consistently receiving a wave of bad reviews, it is a red flag. Ask for recommendations Asking friends and family for recommendations can be a great way to identify a potential tradesperson. The best way to hear about how a tradesperson handles a project is from someone who has experienced their work first-hand. If you can, go and see the work for yourself to assess the quality of finish, and ask questions about if the project finished on time, budget etc. Get multiple quotes It makes sense to source a number of different quotes before deciding on a tradesperson. This is beneficial because receiving different quotes gives you a good idea of what a competitive price for the job is likely to be, and it also gives you a chance to gauge whether each tradesperson sounds trustworthy and credible before offering them the job.

ECA backs government plans for low carbon heat

The ECA has broadly welcomed the government’s Heat and Buildings Strategy, which includes a scheme to help UK households install new, low carbon heating systems. However, ECA urges further action in the coming years to meet the UK’s net zero carbon 2050 target. Measures should include a wider package of solutions encompassing energy efficiency, heating, retrofits and decarbonisation of the grid. Grants worth £5,000 per household will help ensure that low carbon heating systems such as heat pumps are no more expensive to install and run than fossil fuel boilers. A total of £450 million will be earmarked over the next three years for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Luke Osborne, ECA Energy Solutions Advisor, says, “Today’s announcement is a step in the right direction. The grants will be more attractive than the outgoing Renewable Heat Incentive. “However, £450 million over three years only equates to 90,000 installations. Industry is currently installing around 30,000 heat pumps per year, so this funding is unlikely to drive a large amount of additional demand – today’s announcement maintains the status quo for now. “We need further commitment very soon if we are to make any considerable impact. The upcoming COP26 conference might be our best chance to do so.” Paul Reeve, ECA Director of CSR, adds, “We welcome the intention to move price levies away from electricity. This will greatly stimulate the electrification of heating from an increasingly decarbonised grid, though restructuring the cost of domestic energy must also help to reduce fuel poverty.” The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is part of more than £3.9 billion of funding announced by the government for decarbonising heat and buildings. Gas boilers will be banned from 2035. This announcement comes just before the COP26 climate conference, which will be hosted from 31 October in Glasgow.

ESP launches complete smart security range

ESP continues to build on its reputation as a market-leading supplier of electronic security products through the electrical wholesale channel and is very excited to announce the launch of a comprehensive new smart security range. Marketed under the brand name Fort, the complete range of smart security products, which includes intruder alarms, video doorbell, video security light, sensors and a selection of 1080p cameras, will all operate under a single APP – the ‘Click Smart+’ APP – which will be completely subscription-free, with no additional fees incurred. By bringing the operation of the new Fort range under the well-established, tried and tested Click Smart+ APP from Scolmore, users will have control of a raft of connected home and security products all from one secure, easy to access platform. The Fort Smart Security range has at its core accessibility and simplicity for both the installer and end user and has been designed to bring simple, smart solutions together for a safer and more comfortable home. The Fort smart security range features contemporary styling and has been designed to be simple to install, maintain and use and provide a hassle-free security solution. At the heart of the Fort smart security range is the smart intruder alarm, which will support up to 32 RF devices and provide remote monitoring and alert notifications directly to the Click Smart+ APP. The smart alarm is available in handy kits or can be purchased as separate devices for a tailor-made system. There are six different kits in the range, with the basic kit containing one each of the following - a smart hub, PIR, door/window contact and remote control. Other kits offer an additional number of PIRs, door/window contacts and remote controls, and there are two kits which include Pet PIRs. All devices supplied within the kits are pre-registered, to assist with a straightforward install. The Wi-Fi Smart Alarm Hub includes an inbuilt siren, backup battery with up to eight hours standby time and GSM backup facility (Sim not included) for additional system security. The Hub is compatible with a range of battery powered RF devices that can be controlled to provide whole home security in and around a property. In addition, the Fort range includes Wi-Fi security devices such as a video doorbell, video security light and a selection of 1080p cameras, all of which are supported on the same APP and do not require any additional subscription fees other than a Wi-Fi connection. Accessories include remote keypad, pet friendly PIR’s, vibration sensor and includes an option of a solar powered or wired external siren for an additional intruder deterrent. The range also includes a Smart Alarm Keypad which provides a central keypad that is usually positioned in entrances and hallways. The keypad requires the Smart alarm Hub and provides users with arm, disarm, home mode and panic functions. The Fort range also offers a range of security devices that does not require a hub. By connecting directly to Wi-Fi, the various devices add an additional layer of security to your property. The range security devices include a video doorbell to monitor visitors, security flood lights with inbuilt cameras to deter intruders at night and a range of simple to use cameras for a range of applications, such as monitoring loved ones and pets or simply to provide reassurance whilst monitoring your property. ESP believes a key element to the projected success of the new security range is its subscription-free APP.  Unlike some systems on the market which will provide a free basic system, but charge for additional devices and functions, users of the Fort smart security system, powered by Click Smart+, will have full access to all devices and functions with no subscription fee or hidden costs to pay. The APP provides an easy-to-use platform to remotely arm and disarm the system, whilst producing real time events such as activations and low battery indication status. In addition, the APP supports a range of Click Smart+ home automation products which enables a range of sockets and switches to be activated in certain system scenarios. Commenting on the launch, ESP managing director, Neil Baldwin, says: “We have seen the market for home security solutions grow enormously in recent years, fuelled by the rapid development in new technology, as well as a demand from end users for solutions to keep their families and properties secure. “We believe our Fort smart security range will challenge some of the operators in the marketplace.  The fact that users can access and control all Fort smart security devices, as well as the Click Smart+ smart home devices, all under one easy to use and subscription-free APP will make it an attractive proposition for installers and end users. For the wholesaler, it adds another potential revenue stream, in the form of a comprehensive new security range from a supplier with a longstanding reputation within the security products sector.”