Smart City Protocol Standard continues expansion

The TALQ Consortium continues to enhance its software protocol. With the release of the Specification Version 2.3.0 several new functions have been added. It’s significant that most of the new requests address smart city applications other than street lighting. All protocol updates aim to improve the interoperability of different systems and so to ease investment decisions for cities and other operators. To respond best to all new requirements of users and system manufacturers, the Smart City Protocol is regularly reviewed and updated. TALQ members and partners, such as cities and consultants, can propose new functions and other changes. All requests are reviewed by the Requirements Work Group before being passed on to the Technical Work Group for approval and integration. With the newly released Version 2.3.0, completely new functions have been added in the form of a Waste Management profile, including a description of a waste container, a weight sensor, an accelerometer, a pH sensor and a gas sensor. This particular profile was requested by many members, demonstrating the momentum that has developed in the waste management sector in smart cities. Important savings can be realized, in both costs and CO2 emissions, as soon as waste collection is based on real data gathered live from waste containers. Additionally, in the latest version a few minor bugs have been fixed, and some descriptions have been clarified with the inclusion of several real examples. More convenience for software developers As a result of the API changes, new releases of the specification, data model files and TALQ Certification Tool (TCT) have been created. From now on, the technical capability to run the TCT with Docker is provided by the installation documentation file, thus allowing developers to use the tool without worrying about Java configuration and dependencies. Furthermore, the TCT now includes the possibility of running selected test cases only without waiting for the whole test session to finish, and pausing and resuming a test session have been made very much simpler: every software specialist can use the TCT in a much more comfortable and efficient way. “As with all the existing functions already defined, the challenge is to describe new functions in a way which best balances interoperability, implementation complexity and feature value. To successfully manage this goal, the collaboration between members is fundamental. Releasing Version 2.3.0 proves again the engagement, trust and openness among all parties.” highlights Simon Dunkley, Secretary General, TALQ Consortium. Version 2.3.0 is fully compatible with all existing certified TALQ-compliant products certified against Version 2.x

Scolmore promotes Jim Hutchison to group commercial director

Scolmore is delighted to announce that following his 18-month tenure as commercial manager for the company, Jim Hutchison has been promoted to group commercial director. He will now oversee all commercial procedures across the Scolmore group of companies which includes Click wiring accessories, Ovia lighting, ESP security and fire protection, and Unicrimp cable accessories. A well-known figure in the electrical industry, Jim has amassed more than 30 years’ experience and has a wealth of knowledge and expertise to call upon, having worked primarily within customer facing roles, across a broad spectrum of well-known businesses and predominantly premium brands. When he joined Scolmore in 2019, Jim was looking to develop what he described as a cradle to grave approach for the business. Working closely with other departments, he will continue to play a pivotal role in bringing synergies across the Scolmore Group, and with his extensive knowledge of the industry he will help to create new opportunities via the customer base. Having a joined-up thought process will ensure a solution selling approach from the various categories that the group represents – wiring accessories, lighting, emergency lighting, CCTV, fire protection, access control, heating controls and cable accessories. Commenting on his promotion, Jim says: “It's a privilege to have been given the opportunity to further develop my career within the Scolmore Group and to be a member of a highly experienced and committed senior management team. We have exciting plans in place for 2021 and beyond and I’m thoroughly looking forward to playing my part in executing key initiatives to develop further opportunities for our customers.”

Expert calls for more women to enter the energy industry

A leading energy expert has called for more women to get involved in the sector after research from 2019 shows that just 14% of the energy workforce are women. Maria Bastian, who heads up two of the industry's leading energy businesses, chooses to challenge the status quo, encouraging more women to join what is currently a male-dominated sector. As managing director for both Fischer Future Heat, a business known for bringing electric and sustainable heating to the UK, and for energy provider Outfox The Market, who recently finished at the top of the Which? annual energy survey for customer satisfaction, Maria is quite literally the leading lady. Ahead of International Women’s Day on 8 March, Maria is keen to spread the message that the world of energy does not always have to be one that is dominated by men. “It’s difficult to convey and demonstrate to women and young girls that energy isn’t a viable option for them when they are simply unaware of the variety of the opportunities available to them. “But when you dig that little bit deeper, there are a whole host of rewarding and exciting careers for women who choose to work in the energy industry,” she says. As part of a husband-and-wife duo, Maria was, and continues to be, passionate about creating an equal and diverse business. “It was crucial to both Keith and I to work as part of an equal partnership, where gender doesn’t come into play at all, as that isn’t what’s important – getting the job done is.” In her approach to diversity and inclusivity, Maria has always advocated closing the prevailing gender pay gap and is proud that Outfox the Market remains an equitable place of work for either gender, and more importantly, is pleased that she has no gender pay gap within her organisation. Priding herself on researching the industries newest improvements, and leading on business strategy, Maria does see more women getting involved in specific roles within research, sales, and engineering, as well as managerial and directorial positions. “In order for this to happen, I believe that we need to be teaching girls (and boys) from a younger age that a job isn’t defined by gender. “People within the industry should be visiting schools and hosting talks to educate the next generation about the opportunities and possibilities within industries that they may not have otherwise considered,” explains Maria. With both businesses and homeowners looking to reduce waste and act more sustainably, Fischer Future Heat are empowering customers to choose the right heating system for them, whilst having a positive impact on the environment. “As a business owner, it is important for us that we do our part to educate the energy sector and the future visionists behind it,” comments Maria. “It is incredible to work in an industry that is helping to reduce the UK’s carbon footprint, and with a Future Homes Standard being introduced in the UK by 2025, the energy sector is becoming even more exciting, as we look to improve homes and reduce our individual environmental impact longer term.” With that in mind, combined with a constant and busy development for the industry as a whole, there is a need for more people to help and contribute than ever before. “Although women are currently a minority in the energy sector, I encourage everybody, irrespective of gender, to consider a career in energy. “And together, let’s choose to challenge, close the skills gap and break down gender barriers within the workplace,” concludes Maria.

Jamie Hepburn marks Scottish Apprenticeship week by saluting employers

Minister Jamie Hepburn has joined influential training providers the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) and the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) in saluting Scottish employers for continuing to support young talent during COVID-19. The industry bodies have applauded businesses for recruiting, training and nurturing trainees during the pandemic and say their dedication is the perfect example of “business backing talent” – the theme of Scottish Apprenticeship Week, which runs from March 1-5. Anne Galbraith, chief executive of SECTT, which manages high-quality training on behalf of the SJIB, said: “As the industry prepares to celebrate Scottish Apprenticeship Week, employers have once again demonstrated their ongoing commitment to apprentices, stepping up when it really matters and helping to power the industry of tomorrow by investing in the talent of the future. “In the past 12 months, the sustained support for training shown by employers of all sizes across Scotland has been a great example of ‘business backing talent’. Apprenticeships are more valuable than ever – the future is electric, and we need the talent to ensure we have qualified professionals to make it thrive safely and responsibly.” Fiona Harper, The Secretary of the SJIB, says: “At a time when we are focused more than ever on health and safety, apprenticeships ensure the talent of tomorrow is being trained the right way, both on and off-site, following the correct guidance and giving employers and customers confidence that work undertaken is of the highest standard. “Their resilience shows that, even without additional support at this difficult time, employers have still been there, continuing to nurture the talent of tomorrow.” This ongoing commitment to skills and training was also acknowledged by Mr Hepburn, Scottish Government Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills. The Minister comments: “It has been highly encouraging to witness the determination of employers throughout Scotland’s electrical industry to keep investing in the future by training and supporting tomorrow’s highly-skilled electricians. “Apprenticeships are a core part of our skills system in Scotland, enabling employers to invest in their workforce and provide the skills that we need both now and in the future. The Scottish Government has already invested an additional £25 million in response to COVID-19 to maximise apprenticeship uptake across Scotland and ensure that young people have opportunities to build their confidence, gain industry insight and develop valuable skills that employers require. “The Scottish Government will continue to do all we can to support our young people and encourage employers to take on apprentices through our Young Person’s Guarantee, of which apprenticeships are an integral part.” Ms Galbraith adds: “While the intake of apprentices may have understandably dropped during the pandemic, the numbers are still better than expected, with 500 electrical apprentices recruited during lockdown. “This demonstrates both the dedication of employers and the recognition of the younger generation that it pays to choose a solid and rewarding career in a sector that will be more important to all of us in the coming years.” SECTT was established in 1990 by campaigning electrotechnical trade body SELECT and Unite the Union, and currently manages apprentices from their first day at college to becoming a qualified electrician. And Ms Harper adds: “SELECT Members should also be saluted for the way they have stepped in and offered to help with much-needed offers of work to the 80-plus apprentices who have been made redundant as a result of the lockdown; they have supported us to give would-be electricians hope for the future.” SECTT manages the SJIB Apprentice and Adult Training Schemes and runs the only industry-approved training schemes for electrical apprenticeships in Scotland. The SJIB Schemes are designed to regulate the entry, conditions of service, training and education of all people in the electrical contracting industry, with a particular focus on apprenticeships.

Seaward's Apollo rockets improved PAT testing at local council

Oxfordshire City Council’s property maintenance and support services company is ensuring it meets its portable appliance testing (PAT) responsibilities with electrical safety testers from Seaward. ODS (Oxford Direct Services) is responsible for maintaining the council's property portfolio, which includes 7,000 residential homes across the county, parks and streets, and employs a 200-strong team of builders, plumbers, electricians and other skilled tradesmen to carry out repair and maintenance work. As part of the company’s preventative maintenance programme, the plant management department based at the Horspath Road Depot in Oxford, is responsible for checking the safety of all electrical power tools and equipment the workforce uses, which includes dozens of drills, portable lighting equipment, vacuum cleaners, heaters, compressors and batteries. Indeed, an estimated 9,000 individual items used by the workforce need to be regularly inspected and safety checked by appliance tester/plant room assistant, Philip Collender. This broad testing responsibility requires a rigorous safety management approach that links test schedules with appliance identification systems and maintaining comprehensive test records for all items tested. To meet this need, ODS has been a long-term user of Seaward PAT testing equipment, including the popular hand-held Apollo 600+ PAT testers and PATGuard 3 testing software.   The Apollo 600+ is a compact and lightweight unit, which incorporates all the recommended safety tests for portable electrical appliances in line with the IET 5th Edition Code of Practice. These include point-to-point testing of fixed equipment and the testing of extension leads, power cords and RCDs. The tester’s battery powered test capability also makes it suitable for completing testing at a range of locations, boasting practicality for organisations like ODS. In addition, by simply scanning barcodes of individual appliances, previously tested equipment is recognised immediately, automatically setting the required test sequences for that item and speeding up the whole process of asset recognition and testing. The incorporation of a large internal memory supports data handling needs, allowing Philip Collender to quickly upload test records and transfer them directly to a central database on a weekly basis to his PC. The use of these features is completed with the production of important test certificates and test reports to demonstrate full compliance with in-house safety management protocols. Philip Collender is also using the Seaward PAT testers as part of a wider asset management programme, currently recording inspections and checks carried out on the hundreds of ladders used by the ODS workforce on the Apollo 600+ before uploading the data to his PC. Indeed, he anticipates extending this activity to cover other health and safety kit such as fire extinguishers and first aid equipment He says: “Safety is always of paramount importance. Across our organisation, we use an array of electrical equipment and as part of our health and safety and equipment maintenance commitment, portable appliance testing is undertaken regularly and systematically. “The testers are simple-to-use, which with such a large workload, makes the integration of testing with asset identification a lot quicker and easier to complete. The ability to maintain formal test records, which is essential in enabling us to work efficiently and effectively, is also much improved. “We also benefit from good product support from Seaward, who are responsive to our needs, ensuring that any technical queries and issues we might have are resolved quickly.” The Apollo 600+ and PATGuard 3 test results management software forms part of a comprehensive range of Seaward PAT instruments, accessories and software that have been specifically designed to meet the needs of electrical safety duty holders in all workplaces.

Schneider Electric commits to converting its fleet to electric by 2025

Schneider Electric has announced today that it will electrify 1200 vehicles by 2025 for its own fleet. The commitment marks a significant step towards making the world’s most sustainable company even closer to carbon neutrality. “Electric mobility, coupled with decarbonization, decentralisation and digitalisation of energy, is key to achieving the target to reduce global CO2 emissions by 45% by 2030 and put a halt to climate change. The core of our strategy is providing energy and automation digital solutions for efficiency and sustainability and we’re already enabling many businesses on their mission to achieve a greener future,’ said Kelly Becker, Zone President for Schneider Electric UK and Ireland. This will enable Schneider to directly reduce its climate impact by preventing the creation of 64,400 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year by the end of the transition. David Hall, Vice President, Power Systems comments, "Schneider Electric’s commitment reflects our commitment to carbon neutrality, and our goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do and everyday our employees have a crucial role to play in positively impacting climate.  This is another way in which we are enabling them to contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing emissions and our dependence on fossil fuels by 2025.” It is also a vote of confidence in deploying a fully electric fleet complete with investment in AC and DC charging across its sites around the UK&I, with medium voltage and low voltage electrical distribution equipment. This will ensure supply, PV to generate energy, battery storage to store and a microgrid to monitor all sites’ power needs and usage which helps to develop and evolve Schneider Electric’s Sustainability strategy. The scheme has been designed by a dedicated project team that includes a driver focus group, tax and treasury, fleet, Indirect Procurement, HR, rewards, payroll and communications. In the UK, Schneider Electric is already helping a range of companies install EV chargers and power infrastructure – including the Electrical Utilities, fleet providers, forecourt owners, hospital trusts, airports, universities, city councils, like Nottingham City Council, Berkeley group, Environmental agency, Elexent and Arriva.

Missed opportunity to correct new ecodesign and labelling rules

The Ecodesign and Energy Labelling Regulations adopted in December 2019 have been revised. An updated version has been published in the Official Journal of the EU today and enters into force in 3 days. LightingEurope members are disappointed that important changes requested by its association have not been included. Most of the new Ecodesign and the Energy Labelling rules start to apply on 1 September 2021. LightingEurope experts suggested important changes to the regulations to allow private and professional users of light sources sustained access to the quality and safe light sources they need. The updated Ecodesign Regulation contains stroboscopic effect requirements with relevant consequences on the market. Products need to be redesigned to comply to the new strict requirements which may limit the availability of lamps to consumers, such as LED full glass lamps. The timeline published is very challenging for companies to adapt, this occurring in an already very difficult time for the industry due to the COVID-19 crisis. We expect Member States authorities to make additional efforts to ensure full compliance of products placed on the market, which are imported from outside the EU. The Ecodesign regulation can be downloaded here, the Energy Labelling regulation here. LightingEurope has published guidelines to help companies understand and apply the complex rules and to help market surveillance authorities enforce them. Updated versions are in preparation and will be made available by mid-March 2021. LightingEurope will inform those that have registered here about the availability of new guidelines.

Securitas partners with Skills for Security to pilot new training programme

Employees of Securitas UK’s Electronic Security (ES) and Security Solutions divisions have been given priority access to a set of newly developed security system design courses, thanks to a partnership with leading security training provider, Skills for Security. Delivered through a customised virtual training portal, Securitas employees of all levels of experience are enhancing their knowledge of the latest British and European Standards for the design of electronic security systems, including video surveillance, intruder detection, fire detection and access control. Skills for Security is a wholly owned subsidiary of the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) and is the largest UK provider in the delivery of fire and security training, priding itself in offering flexible and accessible provisions to ensure there are no barriers to learning. In the last two years, Skills for Security has invested in its infrastructure and staffing to ensure the highest quality of training is guaranteed, with over 250 apprentices enrolled on their apprenticeship programme, in centres in Warrington, Birmingham, Oxford and Southport. Access to the new courses will initially be offered to all client-facing employees of the Securitas Electronic Security and Solutions business units, who range from Business Development Managers, System Designers and Engineers, to Technical Support and Project Teams. Support staff will also be given the opportunity to improve their understanding of the industry in due course. At the centre of the partnership are Arthur Agnew, Head of Electronic Security at Securitas UK and David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security. Speaking about the launch of the new training courses, Arthur Agnew explains: “At Securitas UK, we ensure our 9,000 staff have access to a huge variance of knowledge through our in-house Learning Management System. Adding Skills for Security to our portfolio of training modules strengthens our aim to have the best trained staff in the industry and supports our ambition to double our Electronic Security and Security Solutions business. Continued investment in our people is at the heart of this strategy, whose knowledge of ever advancing security technology is vitally important to our clients. By ensuring consistent understanding and implementation of the latest security standards across the team, we can help make the world a safer place for our clients and each other.” Commenting on the close collaboration between Skills for Security and Securitas, David Scott comments: “Securitas was the perfect partner to trial our new set of electronic security design courses with their specialist staff; as BSIA members, it is one of the many BSIA membership benefits we are proud to offer. We identified a gap in the market and have worked closely with Arthur and his team to gather valuable feedback and ensure the courses are fit for purpose and ready for a nationwide roll out. With our full focus on enhancing the skills of people across the security industry, Skills for Security is excited that Securitas and its employees are leading the way with this exciting initiative.”

Hellberg launches new safety eyewear

Renowned for its hi-spec PPE that includes advanced hearing protection products, face protection and communication solutions, Hellberg Safety is launching a new range safety eyewear. With a wide range of street-smart styles, from basic to premium, the new range ensures a consistently clear line of sight and safe vision for professional tradesmen and women wherever they’re working on site. Built with lightweight, durable materials and specially developed lens technology, the eyewear provides complete protection, and comfort throughout the working day and can be easily combined with other PPE including ear defenders, safety helmets, and visors. With a focus on enhanced safety in all conditions, Hellberg glasses and goggles have impact-resistant lenses with anti-scratch and anti-fog coating on both sides and there are styles that can be worn over prescription glasses. Around the lens, the ergonomic design, incorporates practical features, like a soft nose bridge and ‘adjustable temples’, making sure the glasses stay in place and fit safely allowing you to keep your focus all day long.

Select, SJIB and SECTT salute electrical training with new film

Select has teamed up with the industry’s leading training providers to launch a new video celebrating the many benefits that apprentices bring to businesses, individuals and the economy. Entitled Business Backing Talent – the theme of Scottish Apprenticeship Week – the film features a young trainee and her employer discussing their respective reasons for choosing an apprenticeship ­and how the scheme has been a success for both sides. The video, developed in partnership with the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) and the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), is also designed to salute Scottish businesses’ ongoing commitment to electrical apprenticeships during challenging times. [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E25yX-rksaY[/embed]   Fiona Harper, Director of Employment and Skills at Select, and also The Secretary of the SJIB, says: “Apprentices are the future of the industry and in this Scottish Apprenticeship Week we hope this video will help to encourage many more people to consider an electrical apprenticeship as a rewarding career option.” Anne Galbraith, CEO of SECTT, adds: “We also want to use it as an example of how Scotland’s businesses continue to back talent and support apprenticeships, despite the challenges facing us all in the current climate.” The video features an interview with Caitlin Kearney, a first-year apprentice at SELECT member company Quinnergy Group in Strathaven, South Lanarkshire, who reveals her reasons for choosing an electrical career. The 21-year-old trainee says: “I wanted to become a qualified electrician because my grandfather was an electrician and my dad was in the building trade, so I’ve always had that background. “Most girls say things like ‘it’s a man’s job’ or that you couldn’t do it, so I just wanted to stand out – and go ahead and do it. “Apprenticeships are the way forward and the future for people leaving school. I’m learning things every day and a trade is the best bet for me.” Caitlin also talks about the help, advice and guidance she receives from both her SECTT Training Officer and Quinnergy colleagues, who encourage her to push boundaries and provide positive feedback. Scottish Apprenticeship Week this year runs from 1-5 March and is focusing on how employers and learning providers have embraced innovation to help apprentices learn, achieve and progress.