Survey: Over Three In Four Electrical Workers Opposed To Agency Labour

Over three in four electrotechnical workers (76%) say they prefer working for a direct employer rather than a labour agency, according to new survey findings commissioned by the Joint Industry Board. Of those who say they preferred direct employment, almost two in three respondents (62%) said it was to ‘enjoy their full employment rights’. A similar number say they preferred ‘steady employment’ (63%) and ‘valued the holidays and additional benefits available’ (59%). Just one in six respondents (16%) say they favour agency labour work over direct employment. Over four in 10 of those who preferred agency work (43%) said it was due to the flexibility, while nearly three in 10 (29%) said it was because they could earn more. ECA director of employment Alex Meikle comments: “These findings overwhelmingly show that electrotechnical workers are more content and likely to be more productive working directly for an employer. “While agency workers can be a necessary source of flexible labour for businesses, the industry should take a hard look at the value of temporary employment. It’s now time for a rebalancing that ensures worker productivity is maximised moving forward.” Some 422 electrotechnical workers from across the UK responded to the survey, which was held during the first quarter of the year. The ECA’s recent submission to the government’s industrial strategy consultation noted that ‘higher (employee) engagement is associated with higher performance’, and urged the government to consider using the procurement process to improve employer-worker collaboration. The 2009 government-commissioned Macleod report found that ‘the correlation between engagement, wellbeing and performance is repeated too often to be a coincidence’. This view indicates the value of employee engagement and support initiatives - such as occupational health assessments and CPD training – to ensuring worker productivity. Another recent ECA survey on the value of corporate social responsibility found that half of electrotechnical businesses said that having a CSR policy in place meant they were more likely to retain and recruit staff.

Charity Offers Vital Support For Apprentices With Learning Difficulties

Almost 15% of young adults in the electrical industry are dealing with learning difficulties such as dyslexia and through its Apprentice Support Programme, the Electrical Industries Charity is providing vital support to ensure these young people succeed in their chosen career. Dyslexia is a hidden problem that can be missed at schools, and often shows its presence through disruptive behaviour and missed schooling. For example, at the age of 15, Scott left school, due to many years of bullying and missed education. He is now well on the way to completing his apprenticeship, and all of his work is well documented. However, he has yet to pass his final written exam, and it is now that his difficulties have come to light. After years of ongoing bullying at school for being ‘stupid’ Scott almost quit his apprenticeship thinking that his dyslexia was an intelligence issue. His employer was keen to help him through this final stage of his apprenticeship and, therefore, he approached the Electrical Industries Charity to get more support for Scott. The Electrical Industries Charity joined ties with JTL to facilitate Scott’s first ever assessment for dyslexia and found a specialist tutor to help him on a one-to-one basis. Scott will now be supported right through his exam, and on to a successful journey as a fully qualified electrician. In the electrical sector, there are many young apprentices like Scott who are not aware of their learning difficulty, which can stand in the way of pursuing their dream career. By joining together, the Electrical Industries Charity and JTL are helping young apprentices to succeed in their chosen careers and aim to end the stigma of mental health issues while creating awareness and giving them the support they need. Tessa Ogle, managing director of the Charity, says: “Dyslexia is a hidden problem that is often missed throughout schooling. One in 10 people in the UK are affected by dyslexia. The Electrical Industries Charity is working hard to ensure awareness of dyslexia is better understood in the sector. With almost 15% of the electrical and energy industry suffering with it, it makes sense to create greater awareness and provide support through our Employee Assistance Programmes.”

Ecolighting To Focus On Its Comprehensive Offering At ED&I

The electrical industry’s new national show, ED&I takes place 6th-7th September at the NEC in Birmingham offering a comprehensive mixture of exhibition floor, learning experiences and other special interest events. To visit the show for free, visit the show's website here. Looking forward to highlighting its full turn key solutions, Ecolighting will offer an insight into its core strengths of providing solutions within commercial and industrial environments. The company offers a versatile product range using the latest LED technology, creating bespoke solutions for a large number of applications. Ecolighting is also proud to be a Carbon Trust Accredited Supplier, assessed to BS EN ISO 9001:2008 and is also a member of the Lighting Industry Association, underlining its commitment to deliver exceptional service, quality, technology and value. The company boasts its own design department which uses the latest software for product design and lighting layouts delivering clear and accurate bespoke lighting schemes which focus on where light is needed the most and also reduces waste. All designs meet the requirements of CIBSE ‘Lighting Guidelines’ and as a result of an integrated approach, advancements have been made in optical design, culminating in enhanced performances for the maker’s luminaries in warehouse and industrial environments, especially warehouse racking aisles. Many of the products are made in the UK and Ecolighting has a culture of continuous improvement with a focus on driving out waste and creating customer value. As a Part L registered company, the company is confident its range of light fittings assist in meeting the demands of the regulations. Also as a registered member of the Electrical Contractors Association, experienced project managers, qualified electricians and office-based staff ensure that customers benefit from a complete turn-key service. To see each project from planning to completion. From initial discussions, Ecolighting is on hand to offer impartial advice about the best solutions for the needs of the project ensuring that customer’s operations are at the heart of what is created. Ecolighting says its installation and commissioning engineers are efficient and considerate of all operational requirements during installations. As a SAFE Contractor registered business, safety is put first and the company looks to maintain a clean working environment at all times. Once the project is completed, the service does not end there. Ecolighting offers support and after-sales care with full documentation and training as well as follow up visits to ensure customers get the most from their new lighting system. A whole host of products for retro fit, installation, recessed, surface, tubes, out-door and high-bay means the company is able to provide whatever is needed for each project. Visitors can check it all out on Stands 25 and 50 at ED&I. Register for free by visiting www.edandiexpo.com

William Coates Scoops Top Industry Award

Mallusk based electrical and mechanical engineering company William Coates was one of eight top performing businesses, from across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, that scooped an award at the ECA Annual Awards in London. The company picked up the award during a gala evening event held on 9th June. The award was presented by TV personality and comedian Hugh Dennis, to Williams Coates for ‘Contractor of the Year - up to £20m turnover’ (sponsored by Eaton). The prestigious awards are recognition of excellence among ECA members within the engineering and electrotechnical services industry. Winners were chosen by an independent panel of judges, who looked for companies who demonstrated that they delivered the highest standards and were industry leaders throughout 2016. William Coates’ winning entry showcased its achievements, excellence, innovation and quality through its successful contribution on a high profile project – the national football stadium at Windsor Park. This featured building key partnerships, relevant training and an apprenticeship scheme. Paul Dickson, managing director of William Coates, comments: “Winning this ECA award is a huge achievement for everyone at William Coates. It demonstrates our commitment to providing excellent, innovative and high quality work which provided tangible results for our clients. It also shines a spotlight on the expertise of our fantastic team who are committed to driving the business forward. We are especially delighted that our entry showcased our work on the national football stadium at Windsor Park. “This was a special moment for us as it was an opportunity to nurture new talent through our apprenticeship scheme, something which we aim to continue for the future. The ECA award will enable us raise our profile across the UK and help us show how a Northern Ireland based business can be a UK industry leader.”

RAM Tracking Partners Up With The ECA

GPS vehicle tracking provider RAM has demonstrated its recognition in the market by becoming an associate member of the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA). According to Whatech Magazine, the global smart fleet management market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.0% from 2017 to 2022, to reach $462.48bn by 2022. Naturally, it is vital that the UK plays its part in ensuring that technological advancements are closely incorporated into the way business vehicle fleets are managed. Alliances of this nature are a vital component of better guaranteeing the wider market benefits from innovative working partnerships. Chris McClellan, CEO of RAM Tracking, says: “To become an associate member of such a prestigious body as the ECA is a real step forward for us as a business. We are the vehicle tracking provider of choice for hundreds of electrical contractors, so by building on this partnership with the ECA we will be continually learning more about the electrical industry and how it operates. Being the customer centric business that we are, this will allow us to develop our system even further to cater for the electrical engineering industry and bring even more value to our customers which is a real positive for us.” The global race to properly implement and establish widespread use of smart vehicle tracking is on, so ensuring that providers have access to the businesses that can collectively help move the market forward through their endorsement, is vital. Craig Albert, director of JVA Electrical, says: “RAM’s product and service has been amazing! I can’t fault the RAM system, it’s easy to use and allows me to be in greater control of my workforce, as well as saving time and money.”

Create Unforgettable Memories With The Electrical Industries Charity

The Electrical Industries Charity is calling on the electrical sector to get fit this summer by joining one or all of its fantastic summer events. Are you an enthusiastic individual who is looking for a challenge which would test your strength and stamina and push you to the limits? Why not join the Electrical Industries Charity’s Mudnificent 7 and prepare for a muddy 7km run through some of the most exciting and challenging obstacles. This unmissable race is taking place on Saturday 12th August 2017 at Heart Park, Warwickshire. If this is not enough why not try the Tough Mudder and challenge your mental grit and overcome your biggest fears at the toughest obstacle course in the UK? At the Tough Mudder, you will have an opportunity to push yourself beyond your limits and step outside your comfort zone as you overcome more than 20 obstacles. The Tough Mudder is taking place at various UK locations between 29th July 2017 and 24th September 2017. Or if you think you can go further, and didn’t manage to secure your place on the public ballot you can be part of the EIC’s London Marathon team and start preparing to run the famous 26.2 miles at the Virgin Money London Marathon 2018. You will have a chance to be part of the most iconic event and raise the necessary funds for people in your industry. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime chance to do something unforgettable. Virgin Money London Marathon is taking place on Sunday 22nd April 2018. Or if running is not for you, why not get together for a game of golf? This year the Electrical Industries Charity is celebrating the 80th Anniversary of the National Golf Championship (formerly known as the Power of Golf.) You and your team of four can tee off at one of the best premier championship golf destinations in the UK while being part of this special day in golf history for only £690. The National Golf Championship is taking place on Thursday 28th September 2017 at the stunning 10,000 acres Forest of Arden Golf course, Warwickshire. Join the charity’s must-attend events and create some lifelong memories for years to come while supporting people in the electrical sector. For further information, please contact Charlotte Laurent: fundraising@electricalcharity.org

Powerstar Supports Knowledge Transfer Partnership   

Powerstar is currently involved in a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) in collaboration with Sheffield Hallam University and Innovate UK. Sheffield Hallam University ‘control and power electronics’ PhD graduate and Powerstar employee Dr. Zeng is at the forefront of developing a portable solar power PV inverter system with battery energy storage. With a 100W – 200W capacity and DC/AC inputs/outputs, the new system will have the ability to charge items such as smartphones, tablets, e-readers and lights without the use of electricity from the National Grid. The system will be in high demand for outdoor events, such as camping and festivals, as well as for tenants in rented accommodation who cannot install solar PV on their premises due to leasing restrictions. The device will further enhance Powerstar’s energy storage portfolio, which is currently designed between 50kW and 10MW under the Virtue product line. The product will offer Powerstar a wider range of business opportunities with new and existing customers, providing a more comprehensive range of options to meet individual requirements. Additionally, it can be used as a development platform for the company’s high power Virtue energy storage solution. Solon Mardapittas, lead project scientist for Virtue, says: “With innovation at the heart of our ethos, we are always looking for new ways to improve our range of solutions within the energy efficiency market. When we learned about the KTP programme from Sheffield Hallam University, we were keen to be involved. “Although Dr. Zeng has full control over her project, has developed it from her initial concept and will take it through to completion, we are supporting her every step of the way with the knowledge and expertise we have as one of the UK’s leading energy storage companies.” Dr. Zeng adds, “With full support from Powerstar, Sheffield Hallam University and Innovate UK, the project is running successfully and is benefiting all parties. “Throughout the KTP I’ve had the opportunity to apply my knowledge and understanding of grid synchronisation technology, alongside exploring new topics and developing new ideas and innovations on a continual basis. Working with Powerstar’s team of experienced engineers, I have been given a range of valuable on site training opportunities.” The three-year KTP programme is government-backed by Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency and is aimed at driving new technology-led products. Powerstar is currently celebrating 16 years of trading - a credit to British manufacturing, which is all completed on site at the company’s South Yorkshire head office. The company is accredited with the prestigious Made in Sheffield accolade in acknowledgement of the quality of its manufacturing process.

Hudl Tablets Prove Just The Medicine For Conquest HDU

Critical care patients in the Conquest Hospital, Hastings, have access to new tablet computers to help keep them occupied during their recovery thanks to the generosity of town cable management manufacturer Marshall-Tufflex. The donation of the five Hudl tablets was championed by company group personnel manager Steve Baldry, who was recently cared for in the hospital’s High Dependency Unit following a sudden cardiac arrest. While there he used an old tablet computer to catch up on news, contact friends and watch movies. However, it was not ideal so he wanted future patients to have a better experience and show his thanks to the unit for saving his life. Pauline Simes, lead nurse critical care, comments: “These new tablets will provide entertainment and a distraction for patients. Ventilated patients who are unable to talk will be able to communicate with staff by touching a picture or spelling out a word via the touch screen. We are extremely grateful to Steve and Marshall-Tufflex for this marvellous donation and it was wonderful to see Steve looking so well. Thank you.” Steve is also encouraging everyone to learn CPR, which can more than double the chance of survival for cardiac arrest victims. He says: “There are approximately 60,000 cardiac arrests each year in the UK and only 10% of people survive. Response to a sudden cardiac arrest is a top priority for emergency services and they do all they can to get there as fast as possible. Unfortunately they often arrive to find people standing round, not knowing what to do. My message to everyone is to know how to recognise a cardiac arrest and how to deliver CPR. You may also want to lobby your local sports facilities, work place etc to install an AED (automated external defibrillator); CPR with early defibrillation can triple the chance of survival. “Early recognition, calling 999 and early bystander CPR with early defibrillation will make a huge difference. I was lucky enough to receive these things and am still here to tell the tale,” added Steve. Marshall-Tufflex has long been a supporter of the Conquest Hospital, donating equipment worth many thousands of pounds from its charitable trust, which has given some £750,000 to good causes locally and nationally over the last 10 years.

Management Duo Hike Mount Kilimanjaro For St Catherine’s Hospice

On Sunday 4th June 2017, Lantei Compliance Services cofounder Leona Smith and managing director Andrew Livesey started their six-day trek up Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for St Catherine’s Hospice. In September 2016, the duo inspired their staff to get involved with fundraising for their Charity of the Year, St Catherine’s Hospice, by announcing their gruelling plans to hike the highest mountain in Africa. From the trek, the management duo raised over £4,000 to contribute towards making a positive impact on the Lancashire based charity which is close to many people’s hearts in the region. Leona Smith reminisces about her time up Kilimanjaro, commenting: “Climbing Kilimanjaro was such an amazing and rewarding experience, I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was made even better by the wonderful group of people that I shared it with. We laughed the whole time from start to finish. Just brilliant!” Andrew Livesey recalled his experience and states: “Sometimes it felt like a mountain upon a mountain with a never ending summit. The feeling of reaching the top will be something that lives with me forever.” Hayley Jackson, fundraising officer at St Catherine’s Hospice, says: “Huge congratulations go to Leona and Andy for completing this incredible feat for St Catherine’s. We are so proud of them for what they’ve achieved, and very grateful that they’ve gone to such great lengths in support of the hospice. The whole Lantei team is doing an excellent job supporting the charity, and we’re particularly impressed with Leona and Andy’s challenge – we hope it was a fantastic experience! It is only thanks to our wonderful supporters, like the team at Lantei, that we’re able to continue providing specialist care to local people living with conditions such as cancer, motor neurone disease, heart failure and MS. We have the mammoth task of raising £3.5m every single year through fundraising and charitable donations, and we simply couldn’t continue to be here for our community without this valuable support. So well done to Leona and Andy, and thank you!” If you would like to support Lantei in its fundraising efforts for such a fantastic cause, please give generously here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lantei

Amber Rudd Joins Marshall-Tufflex For Time Capsule Event

Amber Rudd recently took time out from her busy schedule to join leading Hastings employer Marshall-Tufflex in burying a time capsule to mark its 75th year in business. Ms Rudd, Conservative MP for Hastings and Rye, was given the honour of placing the capsule in the grounds of Marshall-Tufflex’s head office and manufacturing base in Churchfields Industrial Estate, watched over by delighted management and staff of the multi-million pound business, which employs more than 150 people and trades in 40+ countries. She said: “Marshall-Tufflex has a long and successful history in our area, delivering significant employment and benefits to our communities. I was delighted to bury this time capsule, and I would like to congratulate Marshall-Tufflex on a very happy 75th birthday and send my best wishes to them for many more anniversaries to come.” The capsule contains a selection of artefacts, including company literature, newspaper/magazine clippings, photos, a 3D printed model, messages from staff, the new £1 coin and a selection of product samples. It is planned to be retrieved on Marshall-Tufflex’s 150th birthday in 2092. The time capsule is just one of the many ways in which Marshall-Tufflex, founded by Harold Cirket on 28th May 1942, is celebrating its birthday. A summer party is being held for all shareholders and employees past/present and their families. Plans are in place for staff to do 75 company-donated days of charity work and company book ‘The First 50 years and On To the Millennium’, is being updated for release later this year.