Bemco Webinar: Control 4 with KNX

Hosted by Bemco, in association with Essential Install magazine, we are once again offering an exclusive opportunity to learn more about KNX and its applications in the home automation/smart home market. Introduced by EI Founding Editor, Daniel J Sait, and presented by Jeremy Aston, Managing Director of integration expert Channel Smart Buildings (CSB), this webinar session takes a look at the strong and growing relationship between KNX and Control4. Jeremy will present this special free introductory course over Zoom. Entitled Control 4 with KNX: the best of both worlds, the webinar takes place on Wednesday, July 1st at 11am, with those wishing to attend needing to sign up prior to the event. The purpose of the session is to outline how Control 4 and other AV systems can work with the KNX standard. The webinar will cover: Methods for audio/video integration Overview of KNX group addresses and data types with an example of integrating KNX with C4 Visualisation with full KNX / AV control How to avoid problems and maximise profit Essentially, the course is designed to cover how to integrate Control4 with the key KNX information needed to ensure the two systems work harmoniously together as one platform. Bemco will again be giving away another FREE seat on either the KNX Certified Partner (Basic) or Advanced course (worth £750). To qualify for the prize, installers need to attend the webinar. There will be a Q&A after the presentation for 30-40 minutes. Register for free right here.

Ellis' Cable Cleat Calculator Sums Up Its Innovator Status

Ellis Patents has once again demonstrated why it stands alone as the cable cleat market’s leading innovator – having developed an online calculator that will provide users with completely accurate specification information for any project in a matter of seconds. The cable cleat calculator provides correctly specified cleat spacings with respect to short circuit conditions, and recommends the ideal products for that specific project. This is achieved through a pre-programmed calculation that takes into consideration cable formation, cable size, short circuit current and the installation environment. Stephen Walton, Technical Director of Ellis Patents, says, “Correctly specifying cable cleats and the spacing they need to be installed at is vital in ensuring they function properly when called into action. Until now, specifiers and planners needed to make the calculation using a complex formula, and then interpret these results into product type, quantity and exact spacing. “Our cable cleat calculator removes this complicated mathematical element from the specification process, and replaces it with a foolproof option that provides the correct cleat specification quickly and easily.” Ellis designs and manufactures all of its cable cleats in North Yorkshire, and has a global reputation for both its products, and its proven ability to solve problems through innovative thinking. This has seen the company create new products in live project situations for the likes of Balfour Beatty and Siemens, and cure a major health and safety installation headache for Network Rail. “Our innovative approach to product and service development has served us well over the years, opening many doors that would have remained firmly shut to more traditional manufacturers,” continues Stephen. “With the cable cleat calculator, I’m confident this single online tool will have the biggest impact of any of our innovations to date, as it really does have the potential to be adopted as an industry essential across the globe.” The Ellis cable cleat calculator can be found at www.ellispatents.co.uk/cleat-calculator. For further information on Ellis, call 01944 785395 or visit www.ellispatents.co.uk.

National Retrofit Strategy Needed To Boost Economic Recovery

Builders are rising to the challenge of operating in ‘new normal’ circumstances. However, as consumer spending is impacted by the virus, activity may slow. A Government-coordinated national retrofit strategy would help create new jobs across all parts of the country, improve the quality of many homes and help to achieve net zero carbon by 2050. A survey of a sample of members of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) found that over two-thirds (70%) have now re-started work, however, builders are facing new kinds of barriers to working including building material shortages, clients are uncomfortable with tradespeople working in the home and with the availability of subcontractors or suppliers. Almost two-thirds (65%) said they could only survive up to three months in the current circumstances. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, says, “Operating in the ‘new normal’ means that builders are facing different challenges in their day to day work. Builders are adapting, however the Government must step in to ensure that activity does not grind to a halt. We must learn lessons from 2008 when 481,000 builders lost their jobs in construction as activity slowed. The Government must target support for the small and medium-sized (SME) businesses to boost regional growth. The most effective and impactful way to do this is through a national retrofit strategy. Upgrading our homes will improve their quality, reduce carbon emissions and promote innovation.” Berry concludes, “Supporting small businesses means protecting jobs. The Government should also consider ways to support the SME house builder sector. Speeding up planning decisions and streamlining the application process can help to kick start the build out of new sites and keep people in work. We must also consider how to support apprenticeships when there’s a risk training may take a back seat.”  

SELECT President Praises Trade Bodies For Standing Up For Members

SELECT President Kevin Griffin has praised the way in which construction trade and professional associations have stepped up to the plate to protect members’ interests during the coronavirus crisis. The head of the influential electrotechnical association said the bodies have made enormous efforts to keep members updated and focused at a time of unprecedented chaos and uncertainty. Griffin comments, “It’s said that you only ever see someone’s true character in a crisis. Well, during the current outbreak, trade associations like SELECT have come into their own and demonstrated their unique and unquestionable value to members. “As not-for-profit organisations, the sole purpose and principle of SELECT and its fellow trade bodies is their members’ welfare and this commitment has shone through in the past three months. I’ve been enormously impressed by the way SELECT and other organisations have rallied to help keep members updated and focused during an extremely worrying time. “As a contractor myself, I know that even a friendly call asking how you are makes a huge difference. Knowing that someone out there is thinking of your welfare – and not your wallet – means the world to us.” By way of example, Griffin saluted the emergency measures implemented by SELECT which included refunding 30% of membership fees for 2020, creating a dedicated COVID-19 web hub and issuing clear and expert advice via phone, email and online. He adds, “With face-to-face contact reduced, SELECT has used every alternative measure to reach out and reassure members that they’re not enduring this unprecedented incident alone. As the impact of the pandemic started to become clear, it was truly heartening to see The Walled Garden spring into action with a host of practical and proactive measures.” Griffin also highlighted the part trade associations and professional bodies have played in the Construction Industry Coronavirus (CICV) Forum, which has seen more than 50 bodies working together to assist the fight the effects of the virus on the sector. During the compulsory shutdown of operations, the Forum has been in regular touch with the Scottish Government, seeking clarity on a range of issues and suggesting vital measures to help protect cash flow and jobs. Griffin furthers, “It’s heartening to know that SELECT and its fellow trade bodies are in the unique position to influence and shape real change on our behalf, delivering tangible results that make the industry better for everyone. All of these things and more perfectly demonstrate the value of membership of these bodies. We might not be able to stop the virus, but associations like SELECT can inform, educate and assist our Members with the things they really need. And will continue to do so long after it’s safe to pick up our tools again.”

NICEIC & ELECSA to hold webinar on June 12

NICEIC and ELECSA are set to deliver the next episode in their COVID-19 business guidance webinar series. Designed to offer practical advice to electrical contractors, the latest episode will focus on insurance cover, and the benefits policies can provide to individuals and businesses during this period. Taking place on Friday, June 12 at 12pm, the free-of-charge webinar is open to anyone working within the electrical contracting industry. Hosted by Darren Staniforth, Senior Technical Presenter NICEIC & ELECSA, the expert panel will include seasoned insurance professionals: Paul Buckle, Managing Director, NICEIC and ELECSA Insurance Services, and Grant Barnfather, Enterprise Business Manager, NICEIC and ELECSA Insurance. "We are aware that Coronavirus has left a significant number of electrical contractors facing severe financial uncertainty," Staniforth says. "As a result, many are looking for ways to reduce costs, and some may be questioning the need for insurance cover. "During this webinar, we aim to provide all contractors with the guidance they need to make the right decisions for their business. We will discuss associated legal requirements, the various types of cover, and business opportunities the right policy can deliver. As new avenues such as PRS are opening up, now more than ever, it is vital contractors are armed with the correct information on this important topic". Anyone wishing to join the seminar can register via www.niceic.com/covid-19-support-webinar. For those unable to join on the day, a recording will be available via the NICEIC and ELECSA websites 24 hours after the live broadcast.

Safe Outdoor Heating From Tansun

Tansun’s infrared heaters are helping businesses in the hospitality sector get back on their feet following a disruptive few months by supporting them in transforming their outdoor spaces. The company's infrared heaters are developed to completely heat an outdoor area and encourage diners to eat outside whatever the weather, and with visitor numbers likely to soar as lockdown restrictions ease, venues need to ensure they are ready and compliant for the months of trade ahead. Smaller heaters, although powerful, are not able to produce enough heat to warm a large outdoor seating area, and with social distancing now a priority, they will not be able to provide a professional and effective heating solution. Tansun’s range of infrared heaters is designed to enable outdoor areas to become an extension of an indoor area and also provides extra revenue for the bar or restaurant, something that is very important in the current climate. When an outdoor area is equipped with adequate heat coverage, Tansun has found that customers prefer to sit outdoors when dining out, yet more than 90% of outside areas are not heated effectively. This results in the spaces not only being unused but also means a wasted investment for bars and restaurants, something they can no longer afford to ignore. June 1 saw the introduction of guidance for businesses with outdoor seating, allowing gradual reopening of venues across the UK. A welcome relief for the hospitality industry, outdoor seating will now be essential to keep businesses going, and with experts saying that being outdoors is less problematic in terms of the pandemic, venues need to review their current set ups sooner rather than later. As stated by the Environment Secretary George Eustice, the hospitality industry will face many challenges as it begins to reopen, and will very much rely on its outdoor spaces to be able to trade safely. With this in mind, installing the correct heating will mean that people will be happy to stay outdoors for longer periods and into the evenings as a drop in temperature won’t be an issue. Tansun offers a selection of energy-saving switches and heater controls designed to suit almost any situation or need. Tansun's wide range of infrared heaters can easily be adjusted in heat output and energy consumption, maximising user comfort and energy savings. The Tansun six-channel remote allows six individual heaters/zones to be variably controlled. The remote can be configured to the receivers at the touch of a button, making it the most user-friendly controlled and efficient heating system on the market.

Red Arrow Sells Face Masks To Raise £100k For Charity

Red Arrow Electrical Distribution is aiming to raise at least £100K for charity by selling branded face masks to anyone who needs them. “Lockdown has proved to be a very difficult time for the electrical industry, with many contractors on furlough and some wholesalers closing their doors to trade. But with positive movement within the industry in recent weeks, Red Arrow have been working on an initiative to fundraise for charity,” says Red Arrow. Donating profits from the proceeds to a charity of their choice, Red Arrow is selling branded face masks to anyone who needs them – and with the move to make it mandatory, they are ideal to use on all forms of public transport.  Made from disposable 3ply material, Red Arrow’s standard, everyday face masks are manufactured and tested to conform to relevant standards and will not divert much needed PPE away from the NHS. Whether you need one, 10 or 100 boxes, call Red Arrow on 0114 279 8999 to place an order and help Red Arrow reach its aim of raising £100,000 or more for charity.

Time For Fan Isolators To Join The Grid

Knightsbridge, one of the UK’s leading brands of wiring devices, accessories and lighting, is adding a modern slant to the traditional fan isolator switch with the launch of its fan isolator switch grid modules. Offering the contractor both cost and time savings, and the end user greater convenience, the new switches combine good looks with everyday practicality. The 10A rated, triple-pole modules occupy a single grid position and are suitable for use across several Knightsbridge grid faceplates including Screwless, Flat Plate, Raised Edge and Metal Clad. There are five contemporary finishes to choose from – brushed chrome, polished chrome, matt white, white and matt black – so isolating the fan has never been so stylish. For ease of identification when installed in a grid format, each module has the text Fan Isolator in upper case either neatly engraved or laser printed (dependant on finish) on the surface of the rocker. For applications where additional security of operation is needed i.e. prevention of extractor fan being turned off either inadvertently or deliberately, a range of key switch models are also available. These are ideal for areas like washrooms, hotel rooms, student accommodation and multiple occupancy dwellings. The key switch variants share the same finishes as the switch models, feature the ‘Fan Isolator’ upper case text too and are compatible with the line-up of grid faceplates. This format also allows for a fuse holder to be used in conjunction with the fan isolator if required. The arrival of these switch grid modules brings fan isolation right up-to-date and represent a great opportunity to replace the often bulky and workmanlike traditional fan isolation switches of old. Whatever the application, whether charging iPhones, accessing a network, listening to music over Bluetooth or simply switching and dimming lights, there’s a Knightsbridge product that can do it beautifully. For further details of Knightsbridge’s innovative wiring accessory and lighting products, visit www.mlaccessories.co.uk or call 01582 887760.

Pre-Apprenticeship Programme Is Key To Rebuilding Post-Pandemic

As the construction industry gets ready to return to work, the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) and Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) have stressed the importance of preparing the next generation of electricians through the pre-apprenticeship programme. Since its launch in 2000, the programme has given thousands of youngsters a thorough grounding in the industry and provided employers with a succession of confident and well-equipped apprentices. The SJIB and SECTT now say this pathway from school to college and full-time employment as an Electrical Installation Modern Apprentice will be more vital than ever in the new industrial landscape. Fiona Harper, The Secretary of the SJIB, says, “As we emerge and refocus from the pandemic, rebuilding the construction industry and preparing the next generation of electricians has never been more important. “Once employers are ready to take on apprentices again, those who have taken a pre-apprenticeship programme will make extremely attractive candidates. The pre-apprenticeship programme is vital as it gives people of any age a purpose and helps prepare them for the time when employers will contemplate taking on apprentices and adult trainees again.” Delivered at colleges across Scotland working with SECTT on behalf of the SJIB, the programme was launched in 2000 as an enhancement to the Modern Apprenticeship in Electrical Installation. It now provides would-be electricians with basic training in hand skills, health and safety and an understanding of the college system. Pre-apprentices are also provided with personal protective clothing by SECTT and, once they have completed the health and safety requirements, are awarded an SJIB ECS safety card to allow them on site. Anne Galbraith, CEO of SECTT, adds, “The advantages of the programme are three-fold, with pre-apprentices, employers and colleges all benefiting. Pre-apprentices gain an invaluable insight into the role of an electrician, helping them to make an informed career choice. Employers gain a ‘job ready’ candidate who has shown a good attitude and understanding of what’s required. And when the pre-apprentices return for a Modern Apprenticeship, colleges gain students who are motivated and understand the college system.” This programme is offered in a number of colleges that already deliver the SJIB Electrical Apprenticeship and Adult Training Scheme, and can be delivered in different ways to suit each college’s resources. Courses are delivered on either a full or part-time basis, with some colleges offering the Building Services National Progression Award or Electrical National Certificate, and others providing a mix of units with a college certificate. Harper furthers, “Thanks to more than two decades’ worth of experience, pre-apprenticeships are extremely flexible; they’re not prescriptive and designed by SECTT and the individual colleges to suit the needs of today’s candidates.” Galbraith adds, “The commitment of college staff and SECTT training officers has been pivotal to the ongoing success of this programme. Between them, they help pre-apprentices develop a greater understanding of the electrical industry and make them ‘job ready’ so they are attractive to potential employers. “It’s taken a number of years to gain employer confidence in the programme, but employers are now actively asking for people who’ve taken part and are increasingly recruiting from the course first as they can see the positive benefits. As a result, employers are closely engaged with the programme as it helps them identify the qualities and resilience required to take the next step on their electrical career path.” The topic of pre-apprentice programmes has recently been discussed by a number of bodies, including the Scottish Government’s Cross-Party Group on Skills, the Construction Scotland Industry Leadership Group and ESP, a collaboration of Scotland's colleges and industry partners. Galbraith concludes, “I am proud of the positive impact that the Electrical Pre-apprenticeship programme has had on so many young people, and that impact will now be more vital than ever before. The return to college will be a challenging one, with many class numbers being halved and workshop times being at a premium. However, with careful management gained from 20 years of experience, the Pre-apprentice Programme will continue to inspire the next generation of electricians and provide employers with a truly motivated workforce.”

Survey On Face Masks In Engineering Services Launched

A new survey which aims to establish the availability, cost and use of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) in engineering services has been launched. The survey, which is being run by engineering services trade bodies ECA, BESA, LEIA and SNIPEF, will take just minutes to complete, and is open to anyone in the engineering services industry. The availability and cost of RPE, and most notably face masks, has become a major issue since coronavirus struck the UK. Tight fitting face masks are necessary to help protect many engineering services workers against a range of occupational respiratory hazards. ECA Director of CSR Paul Reeve comments, “Businesses continue to advise us that it is very difficult to obtain some types of protective masks, or that prices have increased dramatically, since the coronavirus outbreak. “To further represent this issue effectively to Government and other industry stakeholders, we need to convey data on the extent of any problems that are being encountered. We therefore urge the engineering services industry to complete this short but important survey.” BESA Director of Member Services Debbie Petford adds, “We are urging businesses to take part in this important survey to ensure we have a full view of the scale of this issue across the sector. The difficulties in sourcing RPE and the increase in prices is affecting productivity and margins, and will continue to affect the ability of the sector to bounce back from this pandemic.”   The survey relates to issues around the procurement and use of tight-fitting face masks (such as FFP2 and 3 models), as opposed to surgical masks or general face-coverings. The survey can be completed here. It runs until 4pm on June 23.