Hager solution 'top of the class' for Aberdeenshire school

Dave Strachan, Sales Engineer at Hager, highlights a recent school refurbishment project in Scotland, where a comprehensive range of Hager solutions has helped to enhance and future-proof the busy school’s electrical and lighting system. A broad range of Hager energy distribution, wiring accessories, lighting connection and control systems have been specified for a major refurbishment project at Auchterellon Primary School in Aberdeenshire. Built in 1974, the school’s existing legacy electrical and lighting systems were struggling to keep up with increased demand from users. As a result, the local authority decided to invest in a complete overhaul of the school’s electrical system. Providing education for more than 400 children in the local area, the school’s open-plan structure - which means there are no individual classrooms - required a lighting system which was not only fully flexible to individual needs, but also scalable. The school’s bespoke requirements saw the project’s specification engineer specify Hager’s distribution and panel boards, as well as its market-leading Klik lighting control system. Now in place after a year-long installation project, school managers have the ability to scale up the new system to match the changing requirements of the school should it expand in the future. One of the primary benefits of the project, has been the highly flexible performance capability of the Klik system, which can adjust to daylight levels to deliver an energy-efficient solution to match the school’s requirements. Fully compatible with all DALI control solutions, Klik functionality allows the school to optimise lighting effects, such as easily dimming light in specific areas for presentations and school-led activities, or ensuring areas are not lit when unoccupied. Control is simple, so that full use of the system is accessible to all staff at the switch of a button. Klik also provided significant installation benefits. Its plug-in and socket connection options mean that luminaires were simply plugged in in seconds without the need for circuit isolation. In addition, Klik’s self-wired plugs now provide a highly adaptable solution whenever the system needs to be altered. This was a significant project for the school and means that its entire energy distribution and lighting control system has been future-proofed. In addition, the project team had to ensure a smooth installation which minimised disruption to the day-to-day operation of the school. This meant a high degree of forward planning, including weekend working when the 800 amp panel board was installed to ensure no disruption to staff or pupils. The ease of installation and configuration of the Klik system also helped with the work schedules. James Douglas, who represents Aberdeenshire Council, has been impressed with the result of the refurbishment work that was undertaken. He says, “This was an important project for Auchterellon Primary School. It ensures that the essential energy distribution and lighting systems are fully up-to-date and can meet the needs of a busy school going forward.” He continues, “The project was timely and cost-effective, with disruption at the school kept to a minimum. We are also highly confident that the decision to specify Hager products ensures the systems installed will deliver the exact performance needs we require now and in the future.”

Snickers Workwear introduces new protective wear solution, ProtekWork

As working clothes on-site go, there’s a big difference between conventional electrician’s workwear and specialist ProtekWork garments from Snickers Workwear, which includes protective wear for electricians. Over the years, conventional workwear has evolved to make the working day on-site more comfortable and efficient, with built-in functionality for tools and fixings, as well as protection against cold, rain and the effects of warm weather. ProtekWork, the new ergonomically designed protective wear from Snickers Workwear, has a number of CE (European Conformity) mark across the product range. It has been designed and developed to protect the wearer from serious risks such as heat, flames, electric arcs and hazardous chemicals. In effect, clothing that can mean the difference between life and death for the wearer. What protection do electricians need? To be able to properly identify what protection for electricians, you have to know what risks you, your employees or your workmates face. Category III clothing covers exposure to serious risks, which include major hazards such as electric arcs. It’s therefore important to focus on that category of garments to provide adequate protection. Understand the risks – choose the right level of effective protection Working in high-risk environments involves, as the name implies, high-risk levels. Arcs due to electrical faults can cause severe injuries and damage. So it’s vital that you choose the right Class III protective wear to ensure your safety. ProtekWork from Snickers Workwear is the new protective wear solution that will deliver the right level of layered protection to help ensure comfort, safety and well-being on-site. For further information visit Snickers Workwear.  

NICEIC recommends contractor for hit ITV show

An NICEIC registered contractor came to the rescue recently to help out with a couple of projects for the ITV show, Love Your Garden. The producers of the show initially needed an electrical contractor to help with a garden revamp for an elderly war veteran in Derbyshire. Dale Montague Electrical, based in Chesterfield, answered the call, and was only too happy to go out and get the job finished. The company made such a good impression that it was called back to help out with another project in Nottingham - this time helping a couple coping with a disability. Managing Director of Dale Montague Electrical, Rebekah Tucker, says, “We get a few emergency calls, but this one was a little bit different. It took us a bit by surprise, but when we found out more about what was involved, we were only too happy to help out.” The Love Your Garden programme sees a team of experts transform gardens for people in need. It regularly attracts more than four million viewers and is the nation’s most watched gardening show. The team from Dale Montague Electrical were asked to provide power, sockets and lights to a new outbuilding on both builds, whist ensuring the work carried out by the entire team was done so safely and in accordance with the appropriate regulations. The work generally took one to two days to complete. Managing Director and Head Electrician, Dale Montague, comments, “The job itself was nothing too difficult, but obviously with the camera crew on site, there did feel a bit of extra pressure to make sure it was all working okay. Thankfully it did. “It was a real fun and interesting couple projects to be part of. It was good to be able to give something back to help out.” Dale Montague Electrical is an NICEIC approved contractor. It carries out a wide range of electrical services in the domestic, commercial, industrial and electrical vehicle charging sectors around the city and surrounding areas. The company was set up four years ago and now employs five people. Dale adds, “It was great for a small business like ours to be given this fantastic opportunity.” The new series of Love Your Garden started on ITV on August 27 and runs for 10 episodes. NICEIC worked with the producers of the show to provide registered electrical contractors for each project across the UK.

Kasp expands its innovative safety lockout range

Kasp, the leading brand in safety and security from Carl Kammerling, has enhanced its safety lockout range with two new additions, the Electrical Lockout Kit and Pin Out Wide Lockout.  Designed to offer electricians the very best solutions for safe energy isolation, these new Kasp Lockout products are essential items for electrical contractors working in domestic and industrial environments. An essential safety procedure, lockout/tagout relies on quality products for safeguarding personnel, while important electrical maintenance work is being carried out. Kasp has become a trusted and popular brand in this area and its new lockout products are no exception, offering unrivalled features and benefits: Kasp Electrical Lockout Kit (K81300) A unique compact kit perfect for a range of electrical situations. Can handle single MCB, wide MCB over 60 Amps and MCB with bar switch and suitable for use on isolator switches and electrical cupboards. Contents of the kit all held in a sturdy, zippered pouch with carabineer for easy storage. Kasp Pin Out Wide Lockout (K81200) Ideal for use on wide switch MCB and those fitted with a cross bar. Extra wide for larger breakers over 60 Amp. Universal lockout.  Tina Skinner, Marketing Director, comments, “Our research with electricians has highlighted the demand for lockout products and that insight has led us to expand the current Kasp range with new product launches.  Eye-catching packaging for the new Kasp lockout products has also been designed for greater impact in-store, including a good description of contents on pack to aid product selection.”  

C.K Magma to launch a new range of tool belts and accessories

Following research with professional users, C.K Magma is set to launch its new and improved range of tool belts and accessories, all designed to meet every tradesman’s requirements and make every task that much easier. Ideal for tradesmen who want maximum organisation and safety whilst working at height, the new C.K Magma tool belts and accessories offer the perfect solution, with some great features and benefits that provide convenient access and protection for valuable tools and work-related items. Hardwearing, strong and durable, the tool belts and accessories include: Tool pouch: this convenient pouch features over ten easy access vertical pockets/holders and a unique hammer loop system that can be clipped on either side of the pouch for right- or left-handed use. This versatile tool pouch can be securely belt mounted or used separately with carrying handle.   Drill holster: the drill holster is manufactured from durable polyester and features secure and accessible drill and bit pockets with Velcro securing strap.   Padded tool belt set: manufactured from durable polyester, this handy tool belt set offers extra comfort and features a securing clip to stop the belt pulling through loops when loaded.  The tool pouch and drill holster completes the set to ensure tools are easy to find and accessible.   Three pocket pack: ideal for storing all those loose items you need to keep in one place, the three-pocket pack features a tough, see-through rear panel for clear visibility of contents.  The pockets can be clipped onto belt or bag for easy access.   Mobile phone pouch: the mobile phone pouch features a flexible construction which securely accommodates the latest generation of mobile phones.  A padded interior protects a smart phone in the most rigorous working conditions.  A strong spring metal clip offers strength and security, with the design providing easy attachment and removal. For more information on the range, visit C.K Magma's website.

Schneider learning trip prize up for grabs

A business learning trip to Grenoble in the French Alps with Schneider Electric has been added to the prizes for the winners of this year’s ECA Power Players initiative. The two winners, to be announced in October, will also be able to take part in an overseas fundraising trip with the Electrical Industries Charity and benefit from a mentoring lunch with business guru Sir John Parker of Anglo American, as well as winning a brand-new iPad. Steven Heathcote, Customer Marketing Manager at Schneider Electric, comments, “We are delighted to be sponsoring this year’s Power Players initiative and look forward to welcoming the winners to our manufacturing site in Grenoble, where we are working at the cutting edge of electrical engineering technology. “At Schneider Electric, we believe in recognising those who have achieved the highest standards in the electrical industry and are looking forward to celebrating the success of the winners.” Paul Reeve, Director of Communications and CSR at ECA, adds, “The range of prizes on offer for the next two Power Players is exceptional. The Schneider overseas trip adds to the career-enriching experiences we aim to provide the leading young professionals who win the 2019 Power Players accolade.” Power Players is an initiative which aims to identify and promote some of the leading individuals across the electrotechnical and engineering services sector. The judges are looking for leading young professionals who have shown innovation, excellence or achievement in any professional field within the building services engineering sector. Anyone working in the industry who is under the age of 39 is eligible to enter. Power Players is now open for entries and nominations until the extended deadline of September 20. To enter, or nominate a colleague, please visit www.powerplayers.uk.com.

Nittan helps protect city church from fire

Nittan Europe, a UK-based manufacturer of conventional and addressable fire detection products and systems, has had its Evolution analogue addressable fire detection system installed into St Nicholas Church in Bristol. The system was supplied and commissioned by Coomber Fire and Security Systems, which is a Nittan elite partner and BAFE SP203-1 and SP101 accredited. Grade II* listed, St Nicholas Church was built in 1769, although the crypt dates back to medieval times. The church has always played an important role in Bristol, whether it be for worship, providing shelter during World War II or, more recently, home to Bristol City Council tourist office and archive. To protect this much-loved building, which was reopened in 2018, a Nittan Evolution analogue addressable fire detection system has been installed throughout. It features 51 devices, including detectors and beam detectors, call points, and high output sounder beacons. Coomber Fire and Security Systems, an independent fire and security installer based in Somerset, has extensive experience in fire detection systems for churches; and chose Nittan for this project based on the reliability and quality of its Evolution range, combined with the increased loop voltage which allows for longer cable runs. Evolution is Nittan’s advanced, premium fire system. It uses ASIC technology in the sensors and sophisticated detection algorithms, combining extremely reliable fire detection together with a very high degree of protection against unwanted false alarms.  Its advanced, highly flexible protocol allows for substantial amounts of information to be transmitted at high speed, and is not affected by the number of devices on the loop.

Renewable solution for Welham Hall project

Stiebel Eltron and Pure Renewables have provided two ground-source heat pumps for an award-winning retrofit project at Welham Hall, North Yorkshire. The installation consists of two Stiebel Eltron WPF 13S ground source heat pumps, which provide heating and hot water to the whole property, using a nearby lake as a water source. Since completion, the system has been monitored using Stiebel Eltron’s internet service gateway, which has revealed a seasonal performance coefficient of 3.36. This is in addition to feedback from the customer that the home has been consistently warm despite challenging winter weather, and that hot water has been supplied without disruption. A backup oil boiler was also incorporated into the system with the role of activating in sub-zero temperatures. Throughout operation, this boiler has not been required, demonstrating the unit’s consistent performance in a range of weather conditions. This performance, and the innovative nature of the system’s design and installation, has led to it receiving the technology award at this year’s Architect’s Journal Specification Awards. Judges praised the installation as “a really successful solution which isn’t disruptive and comes out with a great result”. It also received praise for its size relative to performance, with another judge stating, “For the scale of its effect, I’m amazed at the compactness of the product.” Welham Hall is a large countryside property, and this context informed the design of the system and the choice of Stiebel Eltron product. The end result is a near-invisible system that avoids the disruption of trenches being built by being fed by the lake, maintaining the character of the local area. Mark McManus, Managing Director of Stiebel Eltron UK, says, “This is a fantastic and innovative project that we’re proud to be a part of. The performance statistics that have been revealed, now that the system has been installed for some time, really demonstrate that heat pumps are the optimum renewable energy product for large properties like this. “The recognition that this scheme has received, particularly from The Architect’s Journal, really showcases that the UK is embracing new energy systems. Sustainability is becoming a key concern in the property sector, and we’re looking forward to seeing more developers turning to these innovative green solutions to power their new-build and retrofit projects.” Chris Whitelock, of Pure Renewables, adds, “This scheme is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when an ambitious customer prioritises sustainability and a forward-thinking approach. “Designing and installing this system alongside Stiebel Eltron was a fantastic experience, and we’re delighted that the customer has given such positive feedback on the operation of the products.”

Making an 'Mpact' on mental health issues

Building services specialist, Mpact Group, is continuing its campaign to tackle the 'hidden secret' of mental health problems in the construction sector with an in-house training course that has already led to direct intervention for one member of staff potentially at risk. About a dozen employees, ranging from site and office staff to managers and directors, recently took part in a programme run by the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) to help recognise the signs of poor mental health. Coached in techniques on how to discard the stigmas attached to mental health problems, participants were also advised on best listening techniques and what actions to take if a colleague is in distress. Martin Robertson, Health and Safety Manager at Loanhead-based Mpact Group, said the course has paved the way for further constructive conversations in the office about the issues surrounding mental health. At the same time, directors have taken ownership of the drive to raise awareness. He comments, “I have also observed at least one overt example of a site operative noticing that his colleague had a potential issue. This operative then took appropriate action by taking the time to ask if he could help, listening to what his colleague had to say, and then advising him to go home – this was then reported to me afterwards.” The Electrical Industries Charity estimates that more than a quarter of a million people in that sector along are suffering from mental health concerns. But alarmingly, the charity also calculates that 95% of these people often lie about how they are feeling. Robertson says the atmosphere of the construction workplace – which remains male-dominated – does not encourage communication on the subject. That is why the expanding firm has brought in SAMH to help with the identification of potential problems among the electricians, plumbers and joiners that make up MPACT’s 65-strong workforce. “Socially responsible companies like ours cannot afford to ignore this issue, no matter how difficult it might be to instigate these kinds of conversations,” Robertson states. “Raising the issue can’t be seen as any kind of insinuation, and it requires a significant degree of sensitivity to elicit a positive response from the person being approached. Our open-door policy means what it says – employees should have no concerns about bringing personal issues to their line manager.” Further courses are planned to involve more staff at Mpact, and plans are also in place to develop the training to a deeper level with some management personnel. Set up in 2007 by director Paul Wringe and his brother-in-law, Matthew Wright, Mpact Group is headquartered in Loanhead, near Edinburgh. Operating on a strong corporate social responsibility agenda, the company offers Cat A fit-outs, Cat B refurbishments, reactive and planned maintenance across a range of environments and industries.

ECA believes vulnerable residents are still at risk

The safety of hospital patients, those in care and the residents of high-rise buildings could still be at risk if those who work in higher-risk premises lack the necessary experience-based qualifications and competency, says ECA. In its response to the government’s ‘Building a Safer Future’ consultation, leading trade body ECA has broadly agreed with the proposal for an ‘overarching competence framework’ for those who work on and in higher risk buildings. However, ECA also says that this new framework must reinforce and extend experienced-based qualifications. Without doing so, ECA argues that electrical and other installations in higher risk residential buildings could pose an unacceptable risk of electrocution and fire. In its response, ECA underlined that for a competence-based qualification system to ensure safety and quality in the higher risk premises, all workers should undertake a suitable apprenticeship as a minimum. Alternative, comparable qualification routes should also be provided for existing, experienced workers. ECA Technical Director, Mike Smith, comments, “ECA fully supports moves to ensure that those who work in higher risk premises are suitably competent to do so, notably in the electrical and wider engineering services workforce. “However, regulated competence-based qualifications, including apprenticeships, are fundamental to ensuring that installation and maintenance work delivers fire and electrical safety. Without this essential foundation, the residents of high-rise buildings and hospitals will remain at risk.” ECA has also warned against the current reliance, notably in the domestic consumer market, on short, classroom-based courses which are being marketed as offering a fast track into competence. Smith explains, “These short courses seriously undermine the take up of apprenticeships in the industry. Furthermore, their continued existence undermines calls from Dame Judith Hackitt and the Government to ensure that the public is properly protected from fire risks in high rise buildings.”