CICV Forum delivers new health and safety webinar to update industry

The Construction Industry Coronavirus (CICV) Forum is to host another health and safety webinar, delivering invaluable updates and the latest developments to help the sector continue its safe recovery. The free online session will take place on Wednesday 26 August and will again be hosted by Becky Crosland, Health and Safety Adviser at the Building Engineering Services Association and chair of the Forum health and safety sub-group. As well as delivering an update on the wealth of health and safety information currently available from the Forum, Becky will cover: Updates on the two-metre distancing rule Personal behaviour Customer behaviour R number update in specific areas Reminder about normal hazards. The new webinar follows four online Forum sessions in May and June that dealt with pressing issues including health and safety, cashflow, contracts and a range of employment matters including returning to work and un-furloughing. Becky said: “Since our first health and safety webinar on 27 May, much has changed in the world of construction, and it is important that everyone is aware of the new developments that may impact them directly. “This new seminar will offer a clear and concise update on the most relevant working practices and health and safety issues, and delegates will also have the opportunity to ask questions. “We had a tremendous response to our previous health and safety webinar and it is clear that there is a hunger out there for practical information that can be followed in our everyday working lives to help keep everyone safe.” In addition to the health and safety webinar, the Forum is also planning a series of free online training sessions in September and October, offering in-depth advice to help businesses improve their commercial and contractual awareness on construction projects. The webinars are the latest in a series of initiatives from the Forum, which is made up of more than 100 trade associations, professional services bodies, companies and individuals. Since its creation in March, the Forum has drawn on the collective expertise of its members to maintain a steady supply of information and practical advice to the sector as well as carrying out surveys, hosting webinars and making appeals to Government Ministers. In the last month, it has launched a new rebuilding campaign, released its 50th piece of guidance, issued seven health and safety advice documents, updated its operating guidance and reminded construction workers to observe physical distancing in their social lives too. The webinar on Wednesday 26 August at 11am is open to anyone. Register here.

SECTT holds out helping hand to apprentices made redundant due to COVID-19

Apprentices made redundant by the fallout from COVID-19 are being offered a lifeline by an industry-focused charitable trust backed by one of Scotland’s largest trade associations. The Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), which was established by campaigning electrotechnical trade body SELECT and Unite the Union, has stepped in to work with both trainees and employers to help mitigate the effects of the pandemic. SECTT, which manages high-quality training on behalf of the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB), is actively seeking alternative employment for apprentices whose posts have disappeared, and has placed many out 'on loan' to companies to keep their training and skill sets up to speed. It is hoped these employers will now offer the apprentices employment and the opportunity to complete their apprenticeship, with 50% of the young people temporarily placed with other companies now being offered full-time jobs. The Trust says the number of apprentices being taken on has fallen from a running average of 700 to 380 since the construction industry in Scotland was shut down in March this year. Of the 2,650 apprentices in training, 52 have been made redundant, 29 of them since 1 June. Anne Galbraith, chief executive of SECTT, said: “The Trust is acting decisively because, in times of crisis, not only are training budgets in the firing line, but recruitment freezes close off employment opportunities for young entrants to the workforce. “SECTT Training Officers have been working urgently on this issue, since not every one of our trainees has access to IT and communications tools, and face-to-face training effectively ceased in March. Working with our approved centres we have been able to offer remote learning for some of the course work. “Five months is a long time without site or college interaction and it has been proving difficult to engage with some apprentices, but thankfully only a few. The fear is that many are struggling with confidence issues and even fear of going out. “We have been identifying those at risk and supplying laptops so that they can remain in contact and complete any online course work. SECTT Training Officers have also been operating a business as usual policy and contacting apprentices on a regular basis. “Having said that, it is very encouraging that most SELECT members are not paying off apprentices and are also trying hard to help those in trouble. Their reaction has been extremely positive. And while recruitment numbers are down, they are rising again every week. “As well as advice and a friendly ear, we want to be able to support the redundant apprentices to continue at college so that they can complete the stage they are in, as this makes them more attractive to employers.” Galbraith added: “My priority is on our current apprentices and ensuring that they can return to college safely and are all able to complete the stages of their apprenticeship. We can then focus on recruitment. All the above supports the Scottish Government’s recovery plans.” Fiona Harper, the Secretary of the SJIB, said: “We know times are hard and, although the UK Government’s furlough scheme has helped, some businesses are still faced with a challenging economic future. “In an ideal world, we would want these employers to retain their apprentices where possible, but we also realise that this may not be a realistic option for everyone. However, if the worst does happen, we want apprentices to know that we are here for them and will do our very best to help. “SECTT has been working extremely hard over these past few months, finding alternate employment for apprentices and placing them with suitable employers. “SELECT Members should also be saluted for the way they have stepped in and offered to help with much-needed offers of work, helping us to give these would-be electricians hope for the future."

Red Arrow preparing for a more energy efficient future

The increasing consumer awareness of energy efficiency, lower carbon footprints and reduced energy bills is driving demand for better products and further innovation. And while some consumers and businesses may feel they are being forced to buy energy-saving products – either through legislation or increasing energy tariffs – early adopters will reap the financial savings in the long-term. Here, Red Arrow explores how it is leading the way and preparing for a more energy efficient future… Legislations and requirements Changes in legislation continues to focus on energy efficiency and carbon emissions, with the 18th Edition ushering in a greener era. And as the first set of wiring regulations to focus on energy efficiency, appendix 17 offers expert guidance on the lessening environmental impact of electrical installations. This is through measures such as replacing traditional standard filament, halogen and fluorescent lights with super-efficient LEDS. The UK Government is also committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 100% below 1990 levels before 2050. And, on top of this, Part L of the Building Regulations for Domestic Dwellings plans to increase the energy efficiency requirements for new homes in 2020. With lighting playing a key part, this regulation sets the standard for the energy performance and carbon emissions of new and existing buildings. But what does this mean for contractors, and how can the electrical industry play a fundamental part in reducing energy consumption? Red Arrow’s future With the amount of options available on the market today, it can be difficult to know where to start for your next lighting project. However, through its New Product Development process, Red Arrow is working to release new products that are, on average, 20% more efficient than their predecessors. Plus, many of their products already have efficacies of 120-130lm/W, which Red Arrow are setting as the general benchmark. Also, the team can integrally or externally fit energy-saving innovations, such as Microwave Sensors, PIR Sensors, Dimming Options and Wattage Selection into all new items. And with lighting accounting for 15% of electricity bills in the UK, there’s never been a better time to introduce your customers to these energy savers: Rhombus Pro This high efficiency, back lit recessed lay-in modular luminaire is designed to fit into exposed T-grid ceilings: 25,000 hrs lifetime 125lm/W Flicker-free driver Dimmable driver available Commando high-bays The improved, high performance LED dimmable high-bay range is suitable for factory and warehouse lighting: 130lm/W 50,000 hrs lifetime 1-10V dimmable driver included Floodlights Ideal for warehouses, garages, school halls, gardens and playgrounds, Red Arrow’s floodlights are typically >100lm/W. But new introductions will increase this to 130lm/W: 30,000 hrs lifetime Driverless technology Available in 10-300W

Luceco on the crest of 'The Wave' in Coventry

Luceco luminaires have recently been installed at a multi-million-pound water park, The Wave, Destination Water and Leisure Project (DWL) in Coventry. At the centre of this state-of-the-art water park are six slides, a splash pad with water jets, a lazy river, wave pool and fitness and spa suites. Over 200 Platinum Mini Downlighters from Luceco lit spaces including changing areas and WC facilities, locker rooms, corridors and circulation areas. Platinum Mini is recessed mounted with a unique swing tab design for quick and easy installation into a 152mm cut-out. Climate Extra is a robust LED IP65 rated luminaire offering an efficacy of 140 Llm/cW with increased performance for improved energy efficiency in areas where a higher protection against ingress of water is needed. Climate Extra was installed on the 'wet' staircases, including those providing access to the attractions in the water park. Both single and twin fittings were installed, the opal diffuser enhancing the appearance and uniformity. Other luminaires included Academy, installed in store rooms and the communication hub and Luceco’s renowned 600 x 600 square recessed LuxPanel installed in the offices, medical area and staff room, with IP65 rated versions being used in the kitchens. Celeste was installed on 'dry' stairwells, Celeste is an attractive circular LED luminaire from Luceco featuring a ‘corona’ backlight effect with a direct/indirect light distribution. The luminaire can be surface, wall mounted, or suspended using a 3 point 1.5-meter suspension kit, creating an attractive pendant. Front Five Building Services secured the contract for the mechanical and electrical works at DWL with Coventry City Council investing £36.7M. 'The Wave' is proving to be a major attraction in the heart of the city centre of Coventry - the perfect legacy to their year as the European City of Sport.

Video surveillance systems help protect E-BikePort charging stations

e-BikePort has chosen Hanwha Techwin as the single source provider of the video surveillance systems to be integrated with its autonomous, sustainable charging stations for electric-assisted bicycles and scooters. With city dwellers and workers throughout Europe being encouraged by governments to abandon their cars and use either public transport or bicycles to get to their destination, e-BikePorts provide a convenient way to re-charge light electric-assisted vehicles, as well as other electronic equipment, such as mobile phones and tablets. In addition to the recharging sockets, secure lockers are available to temporarily store helmets and clothes, whilst internet access is provided by an integrated Wi-Fi kiosk. Powered by solar panels and not requiring any civil engineering work, the environmentally friendly e-BikePorts can be quickly and easily installed in virtually any location, including education campuses, shopping centres, office complexes and campsites, as well as city centres. Wisenet solution Three vandal-resistant Wisenet XNF-8010RVM fisheye cameras are integrated into each e-BikePort, one of which is located in the middle of the station to constantly capture 360-degree images of any activity. The two other cameras are positioned on the side of the stations to provide 180-degree panoramic fields of view. The three high definition 4 megapixel cameras are powered by the e-BikePort’s solar panels during the day and by battery at night, as is the installed Wisenet QRN-410S network video recorder (NVR). The bandwidth friendly Wisenet QRN-410S supports H.265, H.264 and MJPEG compression, as well as WiseStream II, a complementary compression technology unique to Hanwha Techwin which contributes to the ability of control room operators to view live or recorded images over a 4G network. Security "The video surveillance system is playing a very important role in helping create a safe environment for station users and for protecting their personal belongings,” said Philippe Faye, the creator of the e-BikePort concept and a director of the company which manufacturers the stations in France. “We evaluated cameras and recording equipment from a number of manufacturers before choosing Hanwha Techwin as our partners. It proved to be an easy decision for us in that in addition to the ease of installation, high performance and reputation for reliability of the Wisenet products, we were also impressed with the technical advice and support we received from the locally based Hanwha Techwin team." The first e-BikePort has been installed on the banks of the Vienna River within the City of Limoges in south-west France. Based on its popularity with users who, thanks to the city’s local authority, are able to use its facilities free of charge, it is expected that many more e-BikePorts are likely to be deployed across France and other towns and cities throughout Europe over the coming months.

White goods in tower blocks should be recorded to prevent fires

White goods such as washing machines, tumble dryers and fridge freezers should be documented in tower blocks in a bid to prevent potentially devastating electrical fires, says Electrical Safety First. The Fire Safety Bill, introduced by the Home Office is designed to ‘ensure people feel safe in their homes and a tragedy like Grenfell never happens again’. An amendment has been tabled that would aim to protect tower block residents from the dangers of white goods fires and dangerous electrical installations, following historical catastrophic incidents. The amendment, tabled by Conservative MP, Sir David Amess, and campaigned for by consumer charity, Electrical Safety First, would see a responsible person record the presence of white goods to minimise the risk faulty goods can pose in densely populated buildings. Keeping a record of the appliances in use would mean faulty recalled appliances could be removed or repaired. Mandatory five yearly electrical safety checks in tower blocks, regardless of tenure, are also included in the tabled amendment. Current regulations mean that privately rented flats are required to have electrical safety checks, but other tenures are not, which has created a ‘tenure lottery’ in buildings, which often include owner-occupied, privately rented and social housing properties. Unless every unit in a high-rise building is subject to the same safety regime, the Charity believes everyone in the building can be placed at risk from a single flat. New analysis of government data by Electrical Safety First reveals that nearly a quarter of accidental electrical fires that occurred in high rise buildings, over the last five years in England were a result of faulty appliances and leads as well as faulty fuel supplies, which can include electrical wiring in a property. More worrying analysis shows that over the past three years, accidental electrical fires in high rise buildings have risen consistently year-on-year. High profile tower block fires have been previously linked to electrical sources, including Lakanal house - where an electrical fault with a television claimed the lives of six people; and Shepherd’s Court where a faulty tumble dryer led to extensive damage of an 18 story building. It is also believed that the Grenfell Tower fire was started by an electrical fault in a fridge-freezer. Lesley Rudd, Chief Executive of Electrical Safety First commented: “Much of the conversation surrounding high rise buildings has centred on unsafe cladding, but it is imperative we do not miss the opportunity to tackle the causes of these fires. "Electricity causes more than half of all accidental fires in England and it’s time the issue was given the focus it deserves. We must do more to protect those living in tower blocks, which are some of the most densely populated housing stock in the country. We urge MPs to help protect their constituents by supporting the amendment.”

SELECT launches SELECTcerts user guide

SELECT has continued its ongoing member support by launching an in-depth guide for users of its popular SELECTcerts digital certification app. The 60-page digital booklet includes practical information on all aspects of the service, from getting started to creating certificates and making the most of the app’s many functions. Created by SELECT Technical Adviser, Neil Sim, with input from other members of the trade association’s technical team, the guide features clear imagery to help users gain maximum benefits from the service. SELECT Director of Technical Services, Dave Forrester, said: “We are delighted with the new user guide, which has been created in response to specific member feedback. “The new guide will help members create a full range of electronic certificates quickly and easily, and assist in the creation of a client database and installation locations. “It’s yet another way in which we continue to listen to our members and deliver the services and support they need.” The new guide follows a range of dedicated services introduced for SELECTcerts users since a new version of the app was launched in February. A Facebook group now gives members the chance to ask questions and share advice, with 28 new users signing up in June and July. And a regular e-newsletter is now also sent to all users, providing invaluable hints, tips and updates. In addition, the app itself has been updated, with version 2.1.7 now available and featuring the following upgrades, all tested by the SELECT technical team: Spacing added to R2 and Zs columns on circuit chart/test results Fix for toggle fields (e.g. polarity) showing incorrect value on test results when scrolling Improvements to backup feature to assist support calls Fix freezing issue after inactivity on Windows and iOS (Microsoft Xamarin Forms bug/update) Fix issue with EICR inspection schedule tick on item 5.12 a) Forrester added: “We will continue to upgrade and improve the app over the upcoming months, reacting to feedback to create the ultimate user experience for our members.” Developed in partnership with the experts at Computer Scene Technical Ltd, SELECTcerts is designed to be accessed by all internet-enabled devices and is available from Google Play, Windows App Store and the Apple App Store.

New Meridian LED Backlit Panel Lights

The CED Electrical Group continues to significantly enhance its Meridian LED Lighting range – this time with new LED Backlit Panel Lights. This range of 36W, 600 x 600 panels is available in two colour temperature options – 4000K Cool White and 6500K Daylight. Each of these then comprises further options of a three or five-year guarantee period as well as emergency versions. Backlit for superior even light distribution, these fittings are built with metal back covers and feature lockable DC connectors, flicker free CE approved drivers and deliver a light output of 3,200 lumens. The new fitting range is supported by two accessory kits for either suspension or surface mounting. Whilst high quality is assured with all relevant BS standards met, CE approved, RoHS compliant and Reach registered, this new Backlit Panel Range is nevertheless available at highly competitive prices. For further information please call 0208 503 8500 or visit www.cedelectrical.co.uk.

How lighting can support economic recovery and the goal of a net zero economy

The LIA has published a white paper calling for government action to drive economic recovery while, at the same time, supporting the commitment to a net zero economy. At the core of the paper is the need to adopt smart technologies in lighting to green the existing building stock in an ambitious renovation program. LIA President Terry Dean said, “Lighting has delivered enormous energy savings over the last 15 years but there is much more that can be done by adopting smart lighting controls, while advances in emergency lighting can improve the safety of building occupants. This white paper is designed to inform government thinking as they develop policies to stimulate economic recovery and tackle climate change.” Get your copy here https://www.thelia.org.uk/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=16889007

ABB presents architectural video series entitled 'Frozen Music'

The video series features innovative buildings around the world and the architects behind them. It explores building design in the context of location, impact, purpose and new technologies. 'Frozen Music' is named after the inspirational phrase 'architecture is frozen music', which was made popular by authors such as Wolfgang von Goethe. Each of the three-minute videos demonstrates how thoughtful design and the use of technology creates a smarter and more sustainable environment, whilst supporting our lifestyles. “Architects play a significant role in the creation of our habitats through building design,” said Katrin Foerster, ABB’s International Key Account Manager for Architects and the presenter of the videos. “Each video focuses on a special project and the creative mind behind it. They will be of great interest to not only architects and designers, but also everyone who is interested in good design. This will appeal to planners, developers, hoteliers and everyone working in the construction and design industry, both clients and end-users.” The first video in the 'Frozen Music' series highlights Darcie’s Mews, a brownfield redevelopment project in the heart of a conservation area in London, designed by architect Alan Crawford of the Crawford Partnership. Previously home to a strip of 35 garages on a long and narrow piece of land, Darcie’s Mews was transformed into Crawford’s modern interpretation of a traditional mews development. Mews are narrow streets throughout London that run behind main roads and are historically lined with cobblestones. The video reviews the creation of the structure within the conservation area and how it integrates into the existing community style, creating harmony with neighbouring trees and garden areas. Besides incorporating natural wood cladding, living green roofs, and solar panels, Alan Crawford also included ABB-free@home smart technology in each house, providing energy efficient control of lighting, ventilation, heating, and door entry via mobile device or voice command. For home, office, hotel, airport or hospital, celebrating the architects of spaces that are intelligent, attractive, and environmentally friendly while supporting purpose of use and enhancing quality of life for residents is at the heart of ABB’s 'Frozen Music' video series.