Trimble Luckins enhances data services adopting ETIM classifications

In support of the UK’s Electrical Distributors Association (EDA) initiative to digitise the UK electrical and mechanical supply chain based on the ETIM Classification Standard, Trimble announces that ETIM has now been incorporated within the Luckins Platinum data service. For over 50 years, Luckins have been providing pricing services to the UK Electrical and Mechanical supply chain and over time this has naturally expanded to include data to support, amongst other things, eCommerce initiatives. With the Luckins data service already connecting manufacturers, wholesalers and contractors in the supply chain with a single source of information, the decision to adopt ETIM will help promote the standard further and its availability to the benefit of all participants. For Manufacturers For manufacturers the Luckins implementation of ETIM ensures that products comply with the allowable features, values and units within the standard, as defined and controlled by the EDA and ETIM International. Additionally, the Luckins framework allows manufacturers the flexibility to also provide data to support their product’s USP for where the products do not naturally fit within the ETIM standard or are outside of its scope. Manufacturer generated marketing descriptions and supporting materials can also be carried directly into the supply chain. Working with industry partners such as NG15, manufacturers are now able to publish their data directly to Luckins so the enriched data becomes available to the sector quickly. For Wholesalers For wholesalers the adoption of ETIM Classifications by Luckins means that, utilising the LUCKINSlive API - which is incorporated into the majority of the leading wholesaler ERP systems - the ETIM classification and associated attribute features will instantly be available to existing subscribers, alongside the current service. The same data can also be utilised in websites, eCommerce portals and other bespoke applications to ensure a consistent and accurate view is always available on demand. There are a number of different ways to incorporate the LUCKINSlive API feed within a wholesaling business but whichever route is taken the core of the solution is to provide a live feed to the end-user, within minimum manual intervention. As enriched product information becomes available, it is possible to have it immediately online without burdening valuable employees with cumbersome maintenance tasks. For Contractors Contractors too need access to more technical information and be informed of the benefits of new products coming to market. Both Trimble’s and third parties’ software can now have the ability to consume this data live. Contractors are able to ‘self-serve’ this information 24x7, on demand from a single source within their application of choice. In conjunction with this announcement, work is being undertaken to combine transactional data with BIM object data to make BIM 4D (Cost) a reality. Bridging the divide from generic modeling, this powerful combination will drive forward the next generation of modeling systems. Trimble MEP Content The Trimble MEP Content library supports stakeholders in all phases of the construction lifecycle including manufacturers, distributors, contractors, and end users in delivering successful MEP projects. With over 8 million building components worldwide from more than 5,000 MEP manufacturers, Trimble Constructible content is relied upon for data synchronisation across the supply chain to facilitate business transactions and enable success for all.

Electricity networks plan to boost EVs for small businesses

Over two million small businesses from across London, the South East and East of England are being asked to join a landmark project to help enable the UK’s net zero transition. UK Power Networks, the UK’s largest electricity network operator, has launched its White Van Plan research project. The company is calling for small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to voice their future needs for transport so they are not left behind in getting the electric charging infrastructure they need, whether they use vans, trucks, or passenger vehicles for their business. The power company wants to understand how best to support SMEs that may be looking to invest in their first electric vehicle or switch their commercial fleet to electric. SMEs who would like to get their voice heard and receive tailored support on electric transport can respond to the project’s launch survey, open until 21 December. With 58% of new cars registered to companies, and nearly six million SMEs across the UK, they play a huge part in reaching the government’s net zero carbon emissions target by 2050. However unlike some larger firms, SMEs may not have the information, time or resources to make the transition to electric vehicles (EV). White Van Plan aims to make it as easy as possible for them to convert to EV charging by creating a detailed picture of SMEs’ transport use in the region, giving useful information and tailored support. UK Power Networks will also use the information to investigate new smart charging-based solutions, to free up spare network capacity and save money for customers and SMEs alike. EVs are a key factor in reaching the net zero target, with transport responsible for around a third of total CO2 emissions. London, the South East and East of England are seeing a rapid uptake of EVs, with more than 99,000 registered, and the company forecasts that by 2030 there could be up to 3.6m. There are more than two million SMEs (companies with fewer than 250 employees) in the same area. According to government statistics, SMEs employ over 16 million people and account for half the financial turnover in the private sector. David Savage, managing director of small business Savage & Sons Electrical Ltd in Bedfordshire, who has already shared his views for the project, said: “I’ve been thinking about switching to electric transport for years. I firmly believe it’s an important step and it’s only going to become more necessary in the future. “For small companies to be interested in EVs, it is vital they understand the potential financial benefits and get extra support, especially during the challenges we are facing right now. It’s great to hear about projects like this aimed at helping companies like ours.”

Colloide awarded Viking Energy Network renewable energy scheme

After a competitive tender process, South Tyneside Council Cabinet has appointed Colloide engineering Systems the contract to construct the groundbreaking Viking Energy Network at Jarrow. This district heating system is the first of its kind in the country and would work by harnessing low-grade heat from the river and exporting it to 11 buildings, including high-rise flats, schools and sheltered housing. The multi-million-pound energy network would slash annual carbon emissions by an estimated 1,035 tonnes and save around half a million pounds a year. Detailed designs for the system have now been drawn up and a planning application has been submitted. An energy centre serving the network will be built on an existing council-owned brownfield site at Jarrow Staithes on the south bank of the River Tyne. The system plans to combine a river source heat pump, a combined heat and power (CHP) back-up system, a 1 MW solar farm, and a private wire electrical network with storage battery. Water source heat pumps work by extracting heat from a body of water, compressing it to increase the temperature and then converting it into useful energy in the form of hot water in a network of insulated pipes connecting buildings. The solar farm would provide much of the electricity to power the heat pump. CHP – which would be used on occasions when the solar panels hadn’t generated sufficient electricity – is a highly-efficient process that harnesses the heat that is a by-product of the electricity generation process and which would otherwise be wasted. Stacey Drennan, Colloide’s Business Development and Bid Manager, comments: “We are delighted to be working alongside South Tyneside Council on this cutting-edge renewable energy scheme. “As a company with a vision to improve our environment through sustainable engineering solutions, our involvement in this project is a welcome addition to our portfolio of innovative, low carbon projects. “This is an exciting project that will deliver significant cost savings and slash carbon emissions by harnessing low-grade heat from the river which will help drive the Council towards carbon neutrality by 2030.” The council declared a climate emergency earlier this year and pledged to take all necessary steps to make South Tyneside Council become carbon neutral by 2030. Cllr Joan Atkinson, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety, with responsibility for climate change, concludes: “The appointment of a contractor is an exciting milestone; we are delighted to welcome Colloide on board and look forward to working together on this highly innovative project.” “This district heating system will be the first of its kind in the country and we’re keen to drive it forward. This project is unique in that it combines the three renewable technologies, ensuring minimal use of fossil fuels. “It should also run close to carbon neutral for much of the summer by using electricity generated by the solar farm to run the heat pump. Any surplus electricity would be used in council buildings. “The district heating system would heat 11 buildings around the town, including three of our residential tower blocks and two schools. It will be a key component in our drive to become carbon neutral by 2030.”  

Businesses still unclear over implications of Brexit

A new engineering services sector survey has revealed that just under one in three businesses (30%) have said they are still not clear about the forthcoming business implications of Brexit. Only a further one third (28%) said they are ‘fully clear’ about the implications of the Brexit transition. Three quarters (75%) of respondents expect the cost of electrical and electronic products to either stay the same or rise after the transition deadline of 31 December 2020. However, although over 40% of respondents said product availability was a major factor on the horizon, fewer than one in five (17%) said they expected product availability to be negatively impacted. Half (49%) replied that they expect availability to broadly stay the same. Rob Driscoll, ECA director of legal and business, comments: “It is perhaps no surprise that uncertainty remains a central theme as we inch closer to the Brexit deadline. However, these figures also reveal a degree of confidence in the sector – confidence in the availability of materials, and of skilled and competent individuals, once we are no longer part of the EU.” Alan Wilson, SELECT managing director, says: “These findings show that there is still ongoing concern about Brexit, with the sector also still weighing up the long-term impact of COVID-19. However, despite these twin uncertainties, it is encouraging to see the industry showing some confidence in other areas as we move into what will no doubt be an eventful 2021.” Fiona Hodgson, SNIPEF chief executive, explains: “The latest survey shows our members are optimistic about Brexit and recovery from the pandemic. However, there is still much uncertainty surrounding both which may continue to have implications for the supply chain for some time. We will continue to monitor the position and members need to consider the effect of higher prices and longer lead times when planning work.” Two thirds (66%) of businesses did not believe skills would be a significant problem after Brexit, and less than a fifth (18%) said they had adopted methods for dealing with skills issues linked to Brexit transition. This figure doubled for businesses with turnover above £20 million.

Electrotechnical Certification Scheme issues reminder

The Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) has issued a reminder that from 1 January 2021 the new requirements for Fire, Emergency and Security Systems (FESS) ECS occupations will become compulsory for all new (initial) card applications, meaning that all new applicants will be required to hold a pathway-specific FESS assessment for the ECS occupation being applied for. The new Occupational Qualification Structure introduced by the FESS industry and leading to Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) Card recognition is aimed at promoting higher standards and skills and advancing the standards of professionalism and competence in the sector. The new structure has been developed by an industry-wide working group formed by leading trade associations and employer representatives, including British Security Industry Association (BSIA), FESS Employer Group, Fire Industry Association (FIA), Fire & Security Association (FSA), SELECT, Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) and the Joint Industry Board (JIB). Uniquely recognising the introduction of the FESS Trailblazer, the new structure sets the standard for new entrants to the market at Level 3 whilst also addressing the need to recognise the training, experience and qualifications of the current workforce. Jay Parmar, Chief Executive of the JIB, comments: “The changes being brought in at the start of 2021 will take competency standards in the FESS industry to a new level of professionalism. The new pathway also recognises the differences in training, experience and qualifications for those already in the industry, which critically identifies a minimum standard for those who install and maintain fire, emergency and security systems. I am in no doubt that this will be of huge benefit to the future of the FESS workforce.” There are now four sector disciplines recognised by the ECS in the FESS industry, which include Fire; Fire and Emergency Lighting; Security (Including Access Control, Intruder and CCTV systems), and Fire and Security. Each sector recognises three disciplines which include Systems Operative, Systems Technician and Technical Manager. In addition, the occupations of Labourer, Trainee and Apprentice are recognised by ECS.

BGES strengthens management team with three key appointments

BG Energy Solutions (BGES), one of the UK’s leading independent BMS and energy solutions companies, has welcomed three new specialists to its management team as it looks to further enhance its technology and service offering. Georgia Butler has joined as Head of Service and will be responsible for improving BGES’ service offering - a key part of the company’s #BecomeGreater strategy. The newly created role involves building client relationships and ensuring the company’s 24/7 Energy and Controls Centre (eCC) is running at peak performance. Butler has extensive experience in the property services and maintenance sector, most recently as Customer Performance Manager at Morgan Sindall where she championed a “Perfect Delivery” service and led responsibility for day to day management and administrative compliancy. Rob Ordish joins as Senior Project Manager, and will be responsible for leading projects on the successful BMS installations side of the business. Ordish brings with him over 18 years’ experience in the building controls industry, including nine years at Demma Controls as operations manager. Melissa Povey joins as Business and Governance Manager, and will be working across the business to develop structures and procedures in line with industry standards and accreditations. Key focus areas of the role include health and safety, human resources and training. Povey has extensive quality and compliance experience in the construction industry, including creating new process and reporting structures, policy writing and streamlining operating systems. Gareth Barber, Managing Director at BGES comments: “We are really pleased to welcome Georgia, Rob and Melissa into key positions within our business. We have had a very encouraging and positive period of growth over the last 3 years, and this will further strengthen our expertise as we head into new areas of opportunity.” Georgia Butler says; “At my interview I saw just how positive the teams were to work at BGES and I knew it was a company where I could remain for years to come. I am delighted to join BGES and further improve service delivery, with an aim to helping grow the business.” Rob Ordish; “BGES invests in its people at all levels of the business – that really resonates with me as I started my career on a fantastic apprenticeship scheme. I’m excited to be part of the BGES team as they expand their technology and service offering.” Melissa Povey comments: “BGES is a company that is constantly innovating, so it’s great to be joining them at this important point in their journey. I’m looking forward to helping them develop robust business practices that are fit for their future ambitions.”

Power company switched on diversity

The UK’s biggest electricity distributor has climbed to its highest-ever placing of third in the latest Inclusive Top 50 Employers list for demonstrating best practice around diversity through the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic. UK Power Networks delivers power to 8.3 million homes and businesses across the East of England, London and South East and makes the list for the third consecutive year. The company has previously been rated fifth in the list and is also the only distribution network operator (DNO) to be National Equality Standard accredited. It is one of only three utilities on the list and the only DNO. The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers is a definitive list of UK based organisations that promote inclusion across all protected characteristics, throughout each level of employment within their company. Representing the promotion of all strands of Diversity including Age, Disability, Gender, LGBT, Race, Faith & Religion, the annual list highlights a variety of UK-based organisations across different sectors who have provided sufficient evidence on an amalgamation of topics including recruitment procedures, training and a host of diversity related initiatives. Jean Kelly, a learning and development specialist at UK Power Networks, comments: “This matches our vision of being an employer of choice and is gratefully received during our tenth anniversary year. “UK Power Networks is very proud to be listed amongst the Top 50 UK employers fiercely dedicated to creating diverse and inclusive workplaces, for the third year running. “While our journey to make everyday inclusion a lived reality for every single employee is ongoing, the IT50 gives us an opportunity to reflect and celebrate the progress we have made to date. “During this unprecedented pandemic, listening to our employee’s diverse needs and responding with compassion, respect and support has been central to our decision-making to keep employees safe, engaged and serving our customers. “Being among the Inclusive Top 50 Employers reflects our ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion and the importance of leading by example within and outside of our industry and in society in general.” “This year, more than any other, Inclusive Companies have seen a shift in the inclusion approach of organisations participating in the Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List,” says the list’s founder and CEO, Paul Sesay. “Companies featured on this year’s list have felt the importance of ensuring individual voices are heard and standing up as responsible employers against discrimination and inequality. Those who ranked are on a continuous journey but have made it their mission to advocate for inclusive workplaces where everyone feels empowered to be the very best they can be”.  

Aico joins the UK wide 'Movember' challenge to raise money for charity

Aico are up for a challenge when it comes to raising money for charity. With charities suffering as a result of the pandemic and subsequent lack of fundraising, it is more important than ever to get involved with charity events and initiatives. Following the sad loss of a father to two of Aico’s internal colleagues earlier this year to pancreatic cancer, Aico wanted to take part in ‘Movember’ to raise vital funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK. Pancreatic cancer is difficult to diagnose and treat, it has the lowest survival of all common cancers and is the deadliest common cancer with very few effective treatments, yet it only receives 2% of the annual UK cancer research budget. Movember is an annual event involving the growing of moustaches and beards during the month of November to raise awareness of men's health issues, reduce the stigma associated and fundraise for charity. To raise money for a charity that does vital work for a cause close to the heart of Aico colleagues, Aico’s male colleagues got involved growing moustaches and beards throughout the month. From a hint of whisker to full Santa-style beards, Aico were sure to see them all and colleagues raised a fantastic £685. Aico have pledged to treble this figure raised by staff totalling £2,055!

Ledvance launches Osram lamps for all occasions

Ledvance have announced an updated range of Osram LED lamps. The range of products offer energy efficiency, innovative functionalities, attractive designs and long-life LED light quality at its best. They provide a vital combination of high quality and high profitability. The Osram LED lamps are suitable for a wide range of applications including industry, offices, retail, facilities management, residential, car parks and outdoor areas. Commenting on the new range, Steve Stark, Sales Director Trade UK & Ireland, Ledvance says, “Ledvance will continue to actively maximise and further advance the incredible possibilities of modern LED lighting. The updated Osram range aims to achieve this goal. We hope that the products will encourage even more buyers and facilities managers to make the upgrade to LED installations, with benefits including improved lighting quality, high energy efficiency and the flexibility to upgrade to SMART functions.” Highlights from the range include a series of Parathom LED lights, which are ideal for decorative purposes and will complement any interior design aesthetic. Osram Parathom PAR16 and MR16 LED reflector lamps have an attractive glass design, an ideal alternative to conventional high voltage halogen lamps. Its excellent quality of light and outstanding colour rendering (Ra ? 97) are a winning combination. Replacement is fast, easy and safe with no rewiring necessary. The all-glass Parathom Classic A 150 DIM has the classic shape and look of an incandescent lamp, and impresses with its exceptionally high luminous intensity whilst concealing a dimmable technology to provide the first of its kind. In outdoor applications, the latest generation of Osram HQL LED PRO lamps set new standards in energy efficiency, providing savings of up to 79% compared to conventional HQL lamps. The new design provides IP65 protection, 100% immediate light without warm-up time, and a long service life reducing maintenance costs. This makes them ideal as a replacement for HID lamps. Further products in the range benefit industrial and heavy-duty environments. The Osram SubstiTUBE PRO Ultra Output T8 EM, a high-performance LED tube made of glass, is the ideal solution for particularly demanding lighting tasks. It is shatterproof, low-flicker and can withstand frequent switching. Thanks to its shatter protection, it is suitable for applications in the food industry. The Osram SubstiTUBE Connected Advance Ultra Output T8 EM is a smart LED tube that can be wirelessly connected with ZigBee 3.0. Its glass technology means that there is no risk of bending. For small designer luminaires, the Parathom R7S and Osram LED SPECIAL T SLIM DIM are slim, compact, and dimmable, making them the ideal LED replacement for conventional halogen tubular lamps.  The highly versatile Osram DULUX LED range replaces conventional compact fluorescent lamps with efficient LED lighting, reaching a service life of up to 30,000 hours. With direct replacement, no rewiring is required. Offering good all-round light output and colour rendering (Ra: ≥ 90), the Osram Parathom SPECIAL T26 is a highly compact LED replacement for refrigerators, designer lamps and sewing machines. Ledvance lighting solutions come in environmentally friendly cardboard packaging with all relevant product information immediately visible on the outside of the box.

Develop Training unveils its blended learning course as it adapts to Covid

Develop Training has hailed a “great leap forward” for the industry after it brought forward the launch of its first blended learning course due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Develop Training, part of the JTL Group, has hailed its newly revised Authorised Person High Voltage (Commercial) training course as a first for the industry, thanks to its blend of newly created remote digital learning modules combined with practical hands-on training. The course is the first of a number of blended learning programmes which have been specifically designed for estates and facilities management and multi-utilities and will be rolled out over the next few months. The new Authorised Person High Voltage (Commercial) training course reduces the time spent in a classroom from five days to three by incorporating digital modules so that participants can learn digitally from anywhere in the UK at their own pace and at a time suitable to them. They can take up to two months to complete the online section – rather than having to cover everything within two days – which includes topics such as electrical safety, safety legislation, HV switchgear and HV protection. This allows the delegates to learn at a pace that suits them. The programme has been restructured and streamlined and includes additional modules on cabling, partial discharge and Arc Flash, and they can also talk online to Develop’s experienced trainers via a video platform such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. There is still a requirement for delegates to spend three days learning face to face in the Centre, where they will undertake practical and theory based tasks such as cable diversion and live working, with an assessment being held on the final day. John Kerr, managing director of Develop Training, concludes: “We’re really excited about the launch of our new blended learning course because it’s a first for us and this industry and a great leap forward in terms of the flexibility and variety of ways we can deliver training for the utilities industry. “The way people learn and the time they set aside for learning has changed. They want more flexibility and a range of options to suit their individual learning style, while for many companies, sending staff away for five days away is not feasible. “We were already designing courses to suit these changing trends, but the introduction of the Covid-19 restrictions underlined the need for greater use of online training, so this prompted us to speed up the development of these learning platforms."