Professional Electrician & Installer September 2025 by Hamerville Media Group

ELECT RICIAN PROFESSIONAL

SMOOTH OPERATORS

WHY SELECTRIC’S ACCESSORIES ARE BUILT FOR EVERYDAY EXCELLENCE

LIGHTING

ILLUMINATE YOUR OFFERING AS KEY LIGHTING SEASON ARRIVES

Lighting

59 Why low-voltage lighting is ideal for professional landscapes

60 Five key trends that are helping to transform residential lighting designs

62 Discovering how Ovia has helped to light up the UK’s number one Jiu-Jitsu Academy

64 A step-by-step guide to installing a new DALI 2 compatible emergency lighting bulkhead

67 What to look for when specifying a bulkhead LED luminaire

68 What part has NVC Lighting played in helping to create a more energy-eﬃcient NHS Trust?

Special Reports & Comment

CPD Zone

34 The key steps to correctly achieving safe isolation

36 The team at NAPIT give our reader submissions the ‘Codebreakers’ treatment

39 The veriﬁcation steps necessary when replacing an electric shower in an existing premises

43 An in-depth look at electrical load distribution across three phases

46 The experts at NICEIC answer more of your FAQs

49 Why do you need vigilance when it comes to emergency lighting installations?

53 Discussing the signiﬁcance of the IP Code and dispelling some myths about it

71 Taking a closer look at the vital role sensors play in intelligent lighting systems

72 Why PIR and occupancy downlighting can provide a smarter route to illumination

75 How a Manchester-based school minimised its energy bills through the use of LED lighting

76 Why Theben’s new UK training centre is giving sparkies the edge in a smarter world

79 How retroﬁt-friendly products can help electricians to upgrade existing lighting systems

80 Why smart lighting reduces wiring and costs for installers

82 The team at ROBUS undertake a challenging DALI lighting retroﬁt

85 Why seeking out seamless control and smart innovation can help build conﬁdence in your chosen dimming solutions

86 How can you elevate your customers’ smart lighting experience by integrating Shelly devices with Homey?

88 Is it possible to achieve smarter outdoor lighting with automated control?

90 Thorn Lighting gives us a rundown of a simply illuminating project

92 A look at the latest lighting products and solutions to hit the shelves

99 Klein Tools give some insight into the development of a new solar kit for installers and explain what makes it unique from others

100 A new solution for professionals who want to measure faster and more accurately/effectively

103 Why the new partnership between Hager and Vaillant is excellent news for installers

104 Advising on the benefits of hot water heat pumps, and a look at how they work

106 Learning more about what the FireAngel brand has been up to lately and why it continues to lead from the front

109 Getting the latest updates and developments with CHUMPFix

110 Catching up with the inventor of an award-winning Safe Isolation Simulator to find out how it has evolved and what’s next for this rapidly growing force in electrical safety education

112 How and why the electrician-invented Spurlok device can help to save lives

115 The three core power tools every electrician needs to make workdays smoother and more efficient

116 What is the Making Tax Digital (MTD) legislation and how can electrical businesses comply?

118 Rounding up the newest products, tools and equipment to help you with your work

63 WIN! Get your hands on a pack of Ovia Inceptor Millis 101 WIN! Domus Ventilation has four of

Meet the team

Editor

RICHARD BOWLER

email: pe@hamerville co uk

Digital Manager

REBECCA MCGEOCH

email: rmcgeoch@hamerville co uk

Digital Assistant

ADAM ROBERTS

email: aroberts@hamerville co uk

Advertisement Manager

ANTHONY SCOTT

email: ascott@hamerville co uk

Assistant Advertisement Manager

IAN TURNER

email: ianturner@hamerville co uk

Design

ADEEL QADRI

Production Assistant

KERRI SMITH

Group Production Manager

CAROL PADGETT

Distribution Manager

KARL CLARK

Printed by:

PCP TELFORD

Published by:

HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP

Regal House Regal Way

Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF

Tel: 01923 237799

Fax: 01923 246901

Email: pe@hamerville co uk

Subscriptions to PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN are available Please contact us for rates

Image References (Adobe Stock):

Pg 23 EV Installer © EscapeJaja

Pg 24 Solar Panels © Daniel Jedzura

Pg 33 CPD Sign © BeenaTreena

Editor ’s Viewpoint

It’s time to call ‘Tax-i’ for those who continue to pilfer our SMEs

By all appearances, the UK’s economy is built on ambition – the corner shop owners, the self-employed builders, the electricians with their own vans and a diary full of jobs

But talk to any working-class tradesperson running a small/medium sized electrical installation firm and you’ll hear a very different story – one not of prosperity, but of pressure.

A growing number of these individuals feel punished, not rewarded, for their efforts. Why? Because the UK tax system seems to treat small business success less like something to celebrate and more like something to penalise

The current skills shortage across key trades has encouraged a sharper focus on encouraging young people to "learn a trade," to take up practical skills, and build something for themselves.

But today, those who followed that advice earlier in their lives – particularly sole traders and small contractors – are being squeezed harder than ever The tax burden, paired with rising costs and regulatory complexity, is turning selfemployment from a ticket to independence into a financial tightrope

Consider an average self-employed electrician: He or she might take in £50,000 a year in revenue. Sounds like a healthy income – until you peel back the layers. Materials, transport, insurance, certifications, and admin can eat up a huge chunk before HMRC even takes its slice

And once taxes are factored in –income tax, National Insurance contributions, VAT if turnover crosses the threshold – it’s not uncommon for effective tax rates to feel closer to 4050%, particularly when accounting for expenses that don’t qualify for relief.

The VAT threshold is a particularly cruel line in the sand Businesses making just over

the £90,000 mark are suddenly caught in an administrative web that adds hours of paperwork and increases costs for their clients, making them less competitive Some firms deliberately limit their growth to stay under the threshold – a perverse incentive that punishes ambition and innovation

It’s not just about percentages on payslips The emotional and physical toll is just as steep. These are people who work long hours, take financial risks, and often can’t afford to be ill – because if they’re not working, they’re not earning. And yet, they watch as larger firms exploit loopholes and international corporations funnel profits offshore, while the local sparkie is hounded for every receipt

For many, the frustration isn’t just financial – it’s moral They’re not asking for handouts They just want a fair go They want a system that doesn’t treat them like a cash cow simply because they had the initiative to work for themselves.

There’s a long-held feeling that the government is out of touch with how real people live and work If ministers spent a day on the road with a small electrical contractor – navigating traffic, chasing late invoices, sourcing parts at ever-increasing prices – they might see why resentment is rising.

The UK depends on its tradespeople. They wire our homes, light our schools, and power our hospitals. It’s time the tax system reflected that – not by giving them a free ride, but by recognising their contribution and easing the disproportionate burdens they carry

After all, if the country’s economic engine is powered by the working class, shouldn’t we stop taxing them into silence?

Upskilling route for Domestic Electricians begins development

Domestic Electricians who have qualiﬁed via the Domestic Electrician apprenticeship or Experienced Worker Assessment will soon have a new training route to broaden their skillset and become recognised as an Installation/Maintenance Electrician.

The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) is currently working with awarding organisations and NET on a process that will involve Domestic Electricians completing a series of bridging units covering knowledge and practical assessments, involving robust workplace experience to develop occupational competence across the full scope of installation and maintenance activity, before undertaking a NET end assessment of competence

It will not be a shortcut to becoming an industry-recognised Installation/Maintenance Electrician, either in time, scope of work or quality, and it will be fully mapped to ensure parity of standards and content TESP will oversee the process to ensure eligibility checks, and rigour at all stages

Access to this upskilling route will only be available to those who have qualiﬁed to the industry standard through the Domestic Electrician apprenticeship in England, or the Domestic Electrician Experienced Worker Assessment

“Domestic Electricians are now rightly recognised as industry professionals in their own right with a dedicated occupational standard, apprenticeship programme and aligned experienced

“This bridging process will provide a progression pathway for those with the opportunity to undertake a broader scope of work, following a robust, tailored upskilling route benchmarked against the same standard as the Installation and Maintenance Electrician apprenticeship ”

There will be industry consultation on this new bridging process during the last quarter of 2025, with delivery planned from early 2026

CTEK and NAPIT join forces to support EV installers

CTEK has announced that it is now an Electric Vehicle partner with NAPIT

NAPIT is committed to raising standards and safety with a friendly, common-sense approach – a perfect ﬁt for CTEK’s approach to working with installers through free training and UK-based support and advice

One of CTEK’s ﬁrst collaborations with NAPIT will be live at the ELEX trade show at Coventry’s CBS Arena on 11th and 12th September (see page 56 for more details), where CTEK will have its own stand within the NAPIT EXPO Zone

CTEK’s National Key Account Manager Mike Swain (pictured) will be at the CTEK stand, oﬀering insights and advice on all things EV and chargepoints to installers, contractors and other visitors

Mike will be demonstrating CTEK’s futureproofed CHARGESTORM CONNECTED 3 (CC3), showing how easy it is to install and network, and how its components can be simply replaced

CTEK will be back in the NAPIT EXPO Zone at the following ELEX

event, at Sandown Park in Surrey on 6th and 7th November

Mike said: “CTEK is dedicated to providing installers with the products and knowhow to enable them to best serve their clients with reliable and futureproofed EV charging.

“The partnership with NAPIT underlines our commitment to the education of the sector on all things EV, so installers have the confidence and competence to speed the UK’s transition to e-mobility ”

He continued: “CTEK’s free training has been shared with countless UK installers and our UK based team is always on hand with advice and practical support when planning and commissioning EV charging installations

“We’re pleased to be able to support NAPIT in its work to raise standards in the industry through the sharing of knowledge and expertise and look forward to working with NAPIT registered installers in future ”

worker assessment route,” said TESP Chair, Ruth Devine MBE

Apprentice helps deliver DIY SOS build

A JTL apprentice from Preston has played a hands-on role in transforming a Lancashire home for BBC One’s DIY SOS, helping a local family welcome their teenage son home for the ﬁrst time in three years.

Joe Bibby, who is the second year of his electrical apprenticeship with JTL and his employer, Progress Housing, was among a team of tradespeople and volunteers who worked to adapt a house in Freckleton for a young boy recovering from major surgery The extensive renovations were needed to ensure the home met the boy’s complex medical needs

Joe was able to attend the ‘big reveal’ for the programme and see the real

impact of the project for Daniel Flemen and his family

Joe undertakes his apprenticeship at JTL’s Preston training centre, supported by the Independent Training Provider’s specialist delivery team and his Training Oﬃcer, Liam Tyrer

The Freckleton build comes shortly after the oﬃcial opening of JTL’s new £1 4m Preston Training Centre, which supports over 190 apprentices a year across the electrical and plumbing sectors.

Joe said: “Being part of this project was a real eye-opener It’s not every day you get the chance to use your apprenticeship to help change someone’s life

“Working alongside experienced

Schneider event Spurs energy discussions

Schneider Electric has hosted an event at Tottenham Hotspur’s stadium, with the site, where Schneider Electric’s technology is crucial for smart energy management and energy eﬃciency, playing host to over 130 customers.

One of the highlights of the day was a panel discussion, with representation from Kettering General Hospital and Heathrow Airport, which centred on the need to protect critical infrastructure and sites

With a keen focus on the journey and beneﬁts of using data to make maintenance decisions – from routine to predictive and preventative - the panel discussed how to minimise disruption at

airports, hospitals, and other locations of critical infrastructure

Attendees had the chance to see a variety of Schneider Electric solutions in action, including:

+ Ringmaster AirSeT, a pioneering, F6-free medium voltage switchgear that delivers sustainable, safe, and reliable power distribution without harmful greenhouse gases

+ GenieEVO, a modular medium switchgear speciﬁcally designed for use in demanding situations

+ FeederSeT CB Outdoor LV Switchgear, a robust, low-voltage

TIS marks 20-year anniversary with t-shirt promotion

Test Instrument Solutions (TIS) is celebrating its 20th anniversary of trading by launching a brilliant merchandise giveaway.

Timed to coincide with the brand’s appearance at the remaining ELEX shows in 2025 (Coventry and Sandown Park) and the Solar & Storage Show at the NEC, TIS will be giving away special edition t-shirts (while stocks last) to end user customers

Visitors to the TIS stand at the aforementioned trade shows will have a chance to get their hands on one of the stylish new t-shirts with any purchase of £120+VAT on the day, plus any individuals who make day-to-day purchases of £120+VAT on any item purchased through TIS’ wholesaler

tradespeople on such a meaningful build showed me just how far I’ve come and how much of a diﬀerence we can make in this job. I’m grateful to both JTL and Progress Housing for supporting me and giving me the skills and conﬁdence to get involved ”

switchgear designed for safe, reliable, and eﬃcient power distribution in outdoor environments

In addition to these products, a selection of BESS Solutions, automation and switchgear components were on display

network will also be eligible (on receipt of proof of purchase)

The promotion starts on 1st September and will continue until the ﬁnal t-shirt has been given away

With electrical contractors facing an increasing demand to address power quality issues, but often lacking the dedicated resources or expertise, Power Quality Expert’s new Power Quality Clinic oﬀers a revolutionary solution, providing accessible and aﬀordable expert power quality analysis through an innovative online service.

Problems such as harmonic distortion and voltage ﬂuctuations can cause issues with equipment and increase energy costs, and the Power Quality Expert aims to help contractors to proactively identify and resolve these issues.

The Power Quality Clinic operates on a ﬂexible “Power Quality as a Service” (PQaaS) model ECA and NICEIC members

simply record data using their existing or hired power quality loggers or analysers and upload the ﬁle through an online portal Power Quality Expert then provides expert analysis, generating a standardised report that clearly highlights potential issues and oﬀers remedial actions, removing the need for a dedicated in-house power quality specialist

ECA and NICEIC members can explore the service through a free tier which includes a quarterly report and advice on power quality and energy logger survey setup

The subscription tiers – Basic, Standard, and Deluxe – cater to businesses of all sizes, offering varying report allowances per month This allows

New Clinic launch will give you the Power NVC giveaway puts installers in pole position

NVC Lighting has launched its latest giveaway with a host of rewards up for grabs and a grand prize of tickets to the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix.

The ‘Light Your Way to Pole Position’ campaign will run until 30th September and includes grandstand tickets for all three race days, return ﬂights and hotel accommodation for two people.

Contractors purchasing NVC Lighting products of more than £250 between now and the closing date will be entered into a prize draw to win tickets to the penultimate race of the season, which takes place from 28-30th November

All contractors making purchases of £250 will receive a £5 Greggs voucher, while purchases of £400 will get a £10 voucher To top it all oﬀ, all claims will be entered into a monthly draw to win 1 of 10 UK track days

Participating in this exciting giveaway is simple: just scan the QR code or visit the promotion website.

After making a purchase, contractors only need to upload a copy of their invoice or advice note along with their own and their distributor’s details to receive a Greggs voucher and be automatically entered into the grand prize draw

contractors to scale their services to bring expert power quality analysis to their business

The donation includes an assortment of high-quality products including Click switches and sockets, Elucian distribution boards and Unicrimp cable accessories These products will be integrated into the college's practical training programmes, giving students hands-on experience with industry-standard materials.

“We are passionate about investing in the future of the electrical industry,” said Neil McManus, Technical Engagement Engineer, Scolmore Group

“By providing these essential products to Telford College, we hope to inspire and equip the next generation of skilled professionals who will drive innovation and excellence in our sector ”

SkillELECTRIC 2025 UK ﬁnalists announced

The eight SkillELECTRIC competitors who scored most highly across the recent national qualifying heats have been named as this year’s UK ﬁnalists.

The ﬁnalists are:

Adam Souter – SECTT / McDonald and Munro Ltd

Archie Casson – Oldham College / JRC Electrical Engineers

Ellis Stevenson – SECTT / Campbell and McHardy Ltd

Ewan Forsythe – Belfast Metropolitan College / Nugent

Fabian Maciejewski – East Goscote Electrics / Leicester College

Jane Thorp – Suﬀolk New College / Fellowes Electrical

Samuel Chadderton – Hopwood Hall College / Isolate Electrical

William Boyer – Blackburn College / Paul Wilson Electrical and Renewable Energy Solutions

Each individual has been invited to take part in the SkillELECTRIC UK Final being held at Bridgend College across the week of 24th November

Alongside SkillELECTRIC, around 50 other WorldSkills national competition ﬁnals will be taking place that week across venues around South Wales, involving over 400 competitors

To be crowned SkillELECTRIC champion, competitors will have to excel in a complicated three-day practical installation task set to a strict timescale and against a rigorous marking criteria Low carbon technologies will feature once again following previous years’ successes, this time in the shape of both an EV point charging-related task and solar task for competitors to tackle.

Those who perform well enough and are age eligible could be in with a chance of representing the UK in the Electrical Installation competition at WorldSkills 2028 in Aichi, Japan

Systeq reaches Entrepreneur ﬁnals

Systeq has been named as a ﬁnalist in the 2025 Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards, shortlisted in the Technology Entrepreneur of the Year category.

Known as “The Grammys of Entrepreneurship”, the awards, which take place in November, celebrate the most exceptional and inspiring business stories across the UK

This year’s shortlist includes over 800

Doepke UK expands support team

Doepke UK has strengthened its team with a series of key appointments aimed at enhancing support for electricians, contractors, and wholesalers nationwide

Martin Diggin joins as Technical Oﬃcer, bringing extensive experience to provide expert advice and guidance on products

Helen Longdon, Marketing Executive, is driving brand visibility and communications to keep contractors and wholesalers informed, while Ash Chem, Workshop Operative, supports in-house switchgear assembly and order processing, helping maintain fast, reliable deliveries

These appointments coincide with the company’s expansion at its Daventry site, increasing stockholding and streamlining logistics to meet growing demand, particularly for Type B and HP RCCBs

entrepreneurs from every nation and region of the UK, all recognised for their innovation, impact and resilience

Martin Barclay, founder of Systeq, said: “It’s an incredible honour to be recognised alongside some of the UK’s most exciting and ambitious businesses This recognition is a huge testament to the hard work of our team and our mission to bring cost-eﬀective and energy-eﬃcient lighting controls to the masses.”

IT’LL BE ALL WHITE ON THE SITE

As electrical projects demand faster turnaround times and higher standards, dependable, installer-friendly accessories are more vital than ever. Here we discover why Selectric’s Square and Smooth White ranges are built for everyday excellence across every sector.

In today’s fast-moving electrical industry, product performance and installer reliability are more important than ever

Time is tight, expectations are high, and every ﬁtting matters – especially when it comes to the essentials.

For over four decades, Selectric has been quietly powering homes, commercial spaces, and public sector buildings with British Standard-compliant accessories that are designed with the installer in mind

Among its most popular oﬀerings, Selectric’s Square and Smooth ranges stand out as dependable, cost-eﬀective solutions that deliver on aesthetics, durability, and ease of installation

Whether you're ﬁtting out a new build, upgrading a rental unit, or carrying out a full rewire, these white ranges prove that simplicity is a powerful thing.

Engineered for everyday excellence

The Square and Smooth White ranges have become mainstays for electricians,

thanks to their straightforward functionality and timeless appearance

These products are designed for the demands of everyday work – solid terminal construction, captive screws, clear markings, and thoughtful layouts that help reduce installation time

Selectric knows that professionals don’t just want reliable gear – they need it The Square White range, with its clean edges and practical ﬁnish, delivers a no-nonsense design that integrates seamlessly into both traditional and modern interiors

Meanwhile, the Smooth White range, with its gently rounded corners and subtle aesthetic, oﬀers a softer, more contemporary look that's especially popular in residential settings

Both ranges feature products such as:

● 13 A switched sockets

● 10 AX and 20 AX light switches

● Fused connection units (FCUs)

● TV, telephone, data, and shaver outlets

● Blank plates and cooker control units

The result is a comprehensive line-up that covers every common requirement - and a few niche ones too.

A manufacturer built on trade trust

Selectric isn’t just a brand that sells wiring accessories; it’s a business that has grown together with the UK’s electrical trade

Established in 1982, the company has always focused on delivering practical, durable solutions that meet the real-world needs of electricians, wholesalers, and contractors

This dedication is especially clear in the way the Square and Smooth White ranges are designed The terminal sizes are generous enough to work with solid or stranded conductors, and each accessory is clearly marked to aid faster first-fix and safer second-fix installations

Double pole switching, high-quality rocker mechanisms, and twin earth terminals on all metal-clad alternatives ensure compliance and safety remain top priorities.

And, because Selectric listens closely to the industry, the products are continually reﬁned based on installer feedback and market demands

Compliance and conﬁdence

Each product in the white ranges is manufactured to meet or exceed relevant British Standards, ensuring complete conﬁdence for speciﬁers and end users

From socket contact alignment to backbox compatibility and terminal tightening torque, Selectric insists on high-quality checks across every

production batch.

What’s more, these white ranges are tested for long-term mechanical durability and electrical safety, giving professionals conﬁdence that their work will last not just months – but decades

For projects where Part M compliance or easy identiﬁcation is required, Selectric also oﬀers coloured rocker variants and engraved options, helping electricians meet building regulations without compromising on style

Perfect for every project

While decorative finishes may be preferred in high-spec developments, white accessories remain the industry’s workhorse – and for good reason They’re clean, discreet, easy to match with other finishes, and highly cost-effective

Selectric’s Square and Smooth White ranges are particularly popular in:

● New build housing developments

● Social housing upgrades

● Commercial oﬃces and retail ﬁt-outs

● Healthcare and education buildings

● Student accommodation and hospitality

Thanks to their robust construction and high stock availability, these ranges are ideal for large-scale installations and refurbishment projects And with clear, simple packaging and easy-to-understand labelling, they also make life easier for wholesalers stocking up on the essentials

A long-term partner to the trade

Behind every Selectric product is a business that has always believed in supporting the trade The company works closely with wholesalers across the UK and Ireland to ensure stock availability, fast delivery, and fair pricing

Technical support, product guides, and installation datasheets are readily available, and the team is always open to feedback from the professionals who use their products daily.

In an industry where some brands come and go – or complicate simple tasks with gimmicks – Selectric remains refreshingly dependable There’s no unnecessary ﬂash or fuss in the white ranges, just proven performance backed by a company that understands the pressure and precision

involved in every installation.

Evolving with the industry

While Selectric’s white ranges have stood the test of time, the company isn’t standing still The team continues to invest in R&D, expanding into smart charging solutions, decorative accessories, and circuit protection – oﬀering electricians more opportunities to streamline their toolkits while sticking with a trusted brand

However, no matter how many innovations come along, the core principle remains: making products that electricians can count on.

Foundation you can build on

The best wiring accessories do their job without drawing attention to themselves They’re there when you need them, they install quickly and cleanly, and they hold up year after year. That’s exactly what

Selectric’s Square and Smooth White ranges deliver – day in, day out

For professionals seeking reliable performance, competitive pricing, and a brand that’s been championing the trade for over 40 years, Selectric remains the go-to choice

SOME DEVINE INSPIRATION

PE recently paid a visit to Milton Keynes, home of SJD Associates and current ECA President, Ruth Devine MBE. Here we reveal more about Ruth’s back story and journey into the electrical sector, the challenges she’s overcome and why she has been instrumental in helping to lay the cable for a better industry in the future.

In a sector which has often been deﬁned by tradition and technical rigour, Ruth Devine, Director of SJD Associates, stands as a unique ﬁgure.

As the recently appointed President of the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA), Ruth –whose own route into the electrical industry could be described as ‘non-traditional’ –brings a blend of business-savvy, advocacy and vision, combined with an honest and down-to-earth approach to the role that she will serve until May next year. Her journey from admin work to heading a successful electrical contracting firm, and now the figurehead for one of the industry’s most influential organisations, is both compelling and inspiring for electrical contractors and aspiring female entrants alike.

Humble beginnings

Ruth’s entry into the electrical industry was not a straightforward career choice but rather a return to her roots. Her father Stephen, a former Clerk of Works for the Milton Keynes Development Corporation, found himself out of work

in the 1990s recession and set up his own electrical business, SJD Associates, from the family home.

Initially, Ruth had no intention of joining the trade. She was working in admin and logistics at a chemical company, building her skill set in supply chain management. It was only when she started a period of maternity leave aged 22 that she began helping her father with day-to-day business and admin tasks.

What began as short-term support gradually turned into a full-time commitment, and in 2006, she formally joined SJD Associates.

At the time, SJD was a small operation with limited structure. Ruth realised the need to modernise and introduced systems and processes that helped the company scale rapidly. By 2008, the business had grown from a modest £100,000 turnover to nearly £800,000.

Then the ﬁnancial crash hit and a major unpaid invoice threatened to collapse the business. The team shrank, the projects dried up, and survival became the priority.

But Ruth didn't fold. Instead, she restructured SJD, focusing on high-quality

commercial work and robust compliance. Those lean years forged the resilience and pragmatism that would deﬁne her leadership style.

Driving standards: competence and apprenticeships

A key turning point came when Ruth recognised a pervasive issue in the industry: many electricians lacked full formal qualifications. Despite years on

the tools, very few in the local area had formal apprenticeships or verified competence Ruth made it her mission to change that

She mandated that every operative at SJD complete a formal apprenticeship or equivalent. It was a bold move, initially met with resistance. But Ruth was undeterred and was able to navigate the complexities of college partnerships and government funding to ensure her team received proper training

This commitment earned SJD a commendation in the 2009 National Apprenticeship Awards and laid the groundwork for Ruth’s national inﬂuence on apprenticeship reform.

A national voice in training and skills reform

Having become a passionate advocate for skills development, in 2012 Ruth joined the government-led Trailblazer initiative to help design new apprenticeship standards Her employer-centric insights were instrumental in shaping training that reﬂected real-world demands

She also contributed to the development of occupational maps under the Sainsbury Review, helping to deﬁne technical routes into the electrical and engineering professions For Ruth, training isn’t just about skills - it’s about safety, professionalism, and pride in one’s work

Building

a sustainable business

With her vision ﬁrmly set, Ruth brought in key leadership to grow SJD sustainably In 2016, Darren Hurley, a seasoned director from a £7 million turnover ﬁrm, joined as Operations Director

Together, they have built SJD into a £4 million turnover business focusing on complex infrastructure projects such as hospitals, prisons, and other high-stakes environments

Notably, Ruth made a conscious attempt to step back from day-to-day operations. "I wanted the business to be able to run without me – something that is extremely important when you consider the duties that are required as part of the ECA Presidency, for example, and the other initiatives I’m actively involved with," she says

Delegating responsibilities allowed her to work on the business rather than in it –a philosophy many electrical contractors

can learn from

Recognition and resilience

Today, Ruth’s extracurricular work includes acting as Chair for ECA’s Skills Committee, which advises ECA Council on relevant skills matters and supports member engagement with the skills system

She is also employer Chair of The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP), which supports the industry with clear entry and progression routes, high quality training and assessment and leading research to support industry action.

She’s a founding member of the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education Construction Route Panel, now rolled into Skills England, and the Building Safety Regulator’s Industry Competence Committee

If all that wasn’t enough, Ruth also supports the Construction Leadership Council on skills issues and attends the government’s Construction Skills Delivery Group.

In 2023, Ruth was awarded an MBE for services to technical education and apprenticeships The honour, though unexpected, was a ﬁtting recognition of her tireless advocacy

"It was surreal," she says "People that I didn’t even realise were paying attention had written letters It meant a lot "

The MBE reﬂects not just individual achievement but the impact one person can have in attempting to reshape an entire industry

The journey to ECA Presidency

Ruth's involvement with ECA started with attending local meetings Her natural curiosity and commitment to raising standards quickly saw her join the Skills Committee and later to national

governance roles.

In May of this year, she became ECA President - a rare position for someone still actively running a business in their forties and making her one of only two women to have ever held the role in 125 years, following Diane Johnson’s stint in 2010-2011 Her leadership style is inclusive, energetic, and focused on practical outcomes

According to Ruth, her priorities as President include:

● Raising industry competence through stronger apprenticeships and training

● Improving representation, especially the call for more women in the trades

● Supporting SME contractors with modernisation and resilience planning

● Driving policy change around retentions and fair payment

● Preparing members for technological shifts like AI and decarbonisation

"You don’t come in and change everything overnight," she says "You listen, ask the right questions, and help guide the organisation in the direction that it needs to go "

Tackling retentions

One of Ruth’s consistent frustrations is the issue of payment retentions SJD, like many SMEs, has lost thousands of pounds to withheld payments from large contractors or developers who collapsed before paying what was owed.

“We’re not talking about mistakes or underperformance,” she says "It’s work that was delivered to spec and still not paid for "

She is a strong supporter of reform in this area, backing initiatives that push for project bank accounts and statutory protection for retention monies "It’s not just bad for business; it’s bad for the whole supply chain and ultimately the client," she asserts.

Championing women in the industry

Ruth is a staunch advocate for introducing more women into the trades and cites examples like that of Veronica Jennings –a former ECA Apprentice of the Year award winner, now thriving as a labour

manager and industry ambassador – as evidence of what’s possible

"It’s not about ticking boxes It’s about showing that this industry has room for everyone who’s competent and passionate," she explains

She also emphasises that changing culture starts early. "We need to show young girls that the trades are for them too That they can earn well, do meaningful work, and build a career "

Work-life balance challenges

Balancing business leadership with personal life has never been easy As a former single mother of two daughters, Ruth knows the pressure many working parents face.

“There were years where I did the school run at 3:30pm, fed the kids, then logged back on at 7pm and worked until the early hours,” she says

Her story resonates with many electrical contractors who juggle personal commitments with running a business It’s

a reminder that success often comes from persistence, time management, and surrounding oneself with the right people

Looking ahead

As Ruth continues her presidency at ECA, she hopes her inﬂuence can be evident in most corners of the electrical sector. From education reform to payment practices and workforce representation, she is attempting to shape a more inclusive, competent, and forward-looking industry

To contractors across the UK, this oﬀers both inspiration and actionable insight –all too lacking from many of the governmental departments that currently serve our country’s interests.

Her message is clear: invest in competence, embrace diﬀerence, plan for resilience, and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo

"This is a brilliant industry," she concludes "And we’ve got an incredible opportunity to shape its future But we all need to be part of that journey "

Andy Reakes, Chief Operating Oﬃcer at JIB and ECS, looks at the vital role electrical skills will play in establishing a ‘green’ economy in the future.

“WE NEED THE CORRECT COMPETENCY DEVELOPMENT”

The UK’s commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 is an environmental necessity and a signiﬁcant driver of economic growth

A report by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), The Future is Green, highlights that the net zero economy has grown by 10% during the past year, contributing £83 1 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) and supporting about 951,000 full-time jobs.

The rapid increase in renewable energy, smart grid technology, and energy-eﬃcient infrastructure demands a highly competent workforce capable of delivering safe, reliable and innovative solutions

The government’s recent announcement of a £14 2 billion investment in the construction of the Sizewell C nuclear power station illustrates how crucial this is to meet the UK’s future energy needs The correlation between skills, safety, and productivity is evident, prompting industry-wide discussions about competency frameworks

Ensuring quality, safety, and productivity

A successful transition to a green economy requires workers with more than basic

qualifications. The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) emphasises this need for competency-based standards across the construction and electrotechnical sectors For safety and efficiency, professionals require robust training – evidenced by industry-recognised certification arrangements, such as the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS),

Competency in electrical work goes beyond technical know-how It requires the ability to ensure that systems operate safely and eﬃciently, maximising sustainability and minimising risk

The tragic consequences of past failures, in safety and training, prompted regulatory bodies to stress the importance of structured competence frameworks developed and recognised by relevant industry stakeholders

Electrical professionals must meet stringent standards, particularly in environments with elevated risk, such as high-rise residential buildings, industrial developments and during the construction of care homes and hospitals

The ECS approach, developed in consultation with industry, recognises continuing professional development (CPD) and structured training pathways This assures a workforce capable of

delivering on safety, eﬃciency and innovation and includes all areas linked to the development of the green economy.

The pitfalls of quick-ﬁx training solutions

As the need for electrical professionals grows, there could be a temptation to turn to quick-ﬁx training solutions to meet this demand Such accelerated programmes lack the depth of knowledge, experience and behaviours to achieve true competence – as deﬁned and required by industry consensus.

Only comprehensive vocational training and assessment can deliver a workforce capable of handling complex and safety-critical installations

Inadequate regulation and oversight from clients, consultants and main contractors, in the areas of solar photovoltaics (PV) and EV charge point installations, have resulted in installations posing a danger to end users and the general public.

In 2022, the Centre of Excellence for Low Carbon and Fuel Cell Technologies (CENEX) compiled a report for the Oﬃce for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV)

Of 371 audits undertaken on EV charge points, 18% of these were potentially dangerous in one or more categories with only 32% recorded as satisfactory

COMMENT

The report detailed failures to follow BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations (IET Wiring Regulations) and the IET Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle ChargePoint Equipment Installation.

A follow up report from City & Guilds concluded that, broadly, training for EV charge point installations had not delivered the necessary expertise, knowledge and experience to undertake this work safely Indeed, City & Guilds warns that ignoring structured skills development is akin to neglecting national infrastructure – as both lead to breakdowns, ineﬃciencies, and increased risks.

To combat this, electrical industry bodies – including the Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP), of which the Joint Industry Board (JIB) is a member –advocate robust personnel certiﬁcation as one key element of eﬀective competence assurance Professionals must meet the highest safety and technical standards before entering the workforce and then maintain these standards thereafter.

TESP states: “Adequate understanding of electrical scientiﬁc theory and principles and demonstrable occupational competence are critical for the safe installation of technologies such as solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, battery storage systems and electric vehicle charging points (EVCP) The core competence of a qualiﬁed electrician is the foundation from

which to upskill and train in these areas ”

Competency and sustainability

Increased skills, improved safety, and enhanced productivity are crucial components to achieve the UK’s sustainability goals and economic resilience A competent workforce reduces costly errors, improves eﬃciency, and meets regulatory compliance

For example, ECS electrician gold card holders, with the appropriate upskilling qualifications, will secure the reliability of renewable energy installations, the efficiency of electrical grids, and the safe operation of energy-efficient buildings.

In The Future is Green, the CBI sets out how skilled jobs in the net zero economy generate higher wages, beneﬁting individuals and contributing to economic growth The productivity boost from a highly competent workforce supports industry-wide innovation, helping the UK maintain its competitive advantage in clean technology markets

In areas such as Wales, Yorkshire, and the West Midlands, net zero industries have become economic powerhouses, demonstrating that investment in high-skill jobs translates into economic success

By ensuring that all electrotechnical professionals are trained and certiﬁed to the most stringent standards, the UK can further accelerate this progress, creating a workforce capable of meeting today’s

challenges and driving future innovation

Skills development for the green transition

The JIB Skills Development Fund provides funding opportunities for qualified electricians seeking to expand their expertise in areas such as EV charge point installation, solar photovoltaics, and battery storage Individuals working for JIB companies can access the financial support towards industry-recognised qualifications which align with industry competence frameworks, ensuring they meet the highest standards

ECS also approves low-carbon qualiﬁcations which uphold safety, technical excellence, and regulatory compliance These align with industry-wide standards, such as the Electrotechnical Assessment Speciﬁcation and TESP’s Electrician Plus, to promote the continuing professional development of electricians in emerging green technologies

By investing in structured training through approved schemes, electricians and their employers can future-proof their careers while contributing to the UK’s net zero ambitions safely and competently

Long-term investment in competency

The transition to a green economy is an opportunity to drive growth and the role of electrical skills in this transformation cannot be overstated Elevated competency standards result in safety, eﬃciency, and sustainability – all of which are critical to the success of net zero initiatives

The UK must resist the temptation of quick-ﬁx training solutions and initiatives which bypass baseline competencies – for example, attempting to repurpose people from installing smart meters one day to rapid EV charge points the next

Instead, we need to invest in structured, industry-backed training programmes which align with regulatory frameworks – such as those established by the Building Safety Regulator and the electrical industry itself

Through comprehensive competency development, the UK can secure a future that is not only greener but also safer, more productive, and economically resilient

“CAN YOU AFFORD NOT TO?”

Pete (Monty) Monfort, Director at Arena Training Centre and Monty Electrics, is back in the hotseat this month as he considers the ‘real’ cost of taking on an apprentice.

At Arena Training Centre we are a supporting provider, working closely with JTL and The Sheﬃeld College to provide technical training for apprentice electricians This puts us in a unique position to comment on apprenticeships and their value (and cost) to everyday businesses

With rising expenses for fuel, insurance, materials and everything else, running a successful electrical business has never been as challenging as it has now

Whilst many have a romantic notion that taking on an apprentice is all about giving back to the industry, the harsh reality for most businesses is based on cold facts that equate to money

Can you aﬀord to take on an apprentice?

What is the Apprenticeship Levy?

The Apprenticeship Levy is an amount paid at a rate of 0 5% of an employer’s annual pay bill

As an employer, you have to pay the Apprenticeship Levy each month if you:

● are connected to any companies or charities for Employment Allowance

purposes and have a combined annual pay bill of more than £3 million

What funds can I get?

Currently, if you do not pay the Apprenticeship Levy you will pay 5% towards the cost of training and assessing your apprentice if they are 22 years of age or older when they enrol. A payment schedule will be agreed with your apprenticeship provider and you will pay them directly

Where your apprentice is younger than 22 when they start, you pay nothing and the government will pay the full cost With the current funding set at £20,000 for electrical apprenticeships, that means you will pay up to £1,000

If your company pays the Apprenticeship Levy you can use this towards your apprenticeship costs

Additionally, if your company doesn’t use all of the Levy it can transfer up to 25% of this Levy to another employer or return it to general taxation

Many apprenticeship providers have access to additional funding streams so you may find that you do not even have to pay the additional 5% for older apprentices

What grants are available?

If your apprentices meet the following criteria you can get £1,000 to support your apprentice in the workplace:

● 16 to 18 years old (or 15 years old if the apprentice’s 16th birthday is between the last Friday of June and 31 August)

● 19 to 24 years old with an education, health and care (EHC) plan

● 19 to 24 years old and have been in care

You can spend this on any costs related to their employment, including salary.

How much do I need to pay an apprentice?

Apprentices must be paid the National Minimum Wage

Employers do not need to pay Class 1 National Insurance contributions for apprentices under 25 years old who are earning less than £967 per week in salary, but it is likely that you will need

to pay pensions contributions if your apprentice is over 22

What else do I need to consider?

How do I advertise an apprenticeship position?

You can advertise using the government apprenticeship servicer account but if you’re not sure how to do this speak to your local apprenticeship provider as they will have a host of experience in this area and may even have candidates waiting for an opportunity

Do you need an apprentice?

JTL has recently published a new report – Powering the Future The report indicates that 37% of engineering services cite labour shortages and, even before new infrastructure projects are considered, over 10,000 electrical apprenticeships

are needed just to maintain our dwindling workforce

Electrical companies need to be mindful that with a dwindling work force, taking on future employees and contractors is only going to get more expensive as a smaller work force that’s in greater demand will be able to command higher salaries. Companies therefore need to consider getting staﬀ in place so that they can capitalise on this

Conclusion

Unless you’re a one-man band with no aspirations to grow your business beyond that, you will need manpower for your business to function correctly

The recent hike in minimum wage might put you off taking on an apprentice and if you’re the sort of employer who has only paid lip service to the purpose of apprenticeships, instead using them as cheap labour with no real interest in progressing them in their career, the latest costs may put a stop to this practice

What about the more ethical employers?

Taking on sub-contractors or employing qualified electricians in the marketplace is an option but taking on an apprentice has key benefits

Firstly, you can train them right If you recruit someone who is a fit for your business and you develop them and provide them with career opportunities you can secure long term labour and expertise

A larger well-trained workforce will permit you to take on more diverse projects, allowing you to remain competitive as a business

Putting aside the usual grumbling and concerns about employment costs for apprentices, I would challenge any business to answer my final question: ‘Can you really afford not to take on an apprentice?’

How are qualifications developed?

In the latest of this series of regular columns, offering advice and updates on electrical qualifications and recommended training routes, Kevin Sparrow, Industry & Portfolio Manager at EAL Awards, looks at how qualifications are developed and what drives change.

The world of qualifications can feel like a labyrinth at times; ever evolving, with different structures across devolved UK nations

For example, what applies in England might look quite different in Wales

In this month’s article, I’ll unpack how qualifications are developed, why they change, and what remains consistent, especially for regulated vocational and apprenticeship qualifications

What drives change?

TESP to introduce an innovative Experience Worker Test for seasoned electricians to help eligible professionals access the EWA scheme and pursue a Gold Card

Government policy plays a major role. Since apprenticeship structures are set differently by each nation’s government bodies, the qualifications that follow reflect those variations On the other hand, CPD awards such as wiring regulations are harmonised across the UK. They only change when technical standards like BS 7671 or Codes of Practice are updated.

Why do new qualiﬁcations arise?

At their core, new qualifications are developed to recognise and formally validate understanding and skills.

We develop them in close partnership with industry, collaborating with organisations like the IET, ECA, TESP, FSA, and partners across the BSE sector, as well as training centres This collaboration has made us the go-to Awarding Organisation for BSE and engineering.

A recent example is working with

How are they developed?

We follow rigorously documented procedures, starting with an in-depth analysis of the subject’s activity and its knowledge and understanding. We then distil the skills and knowledge (and understanding), ensuring alignment with industry best practice and paying special attention to safety-critical and technical aspects, the target learners, and any entry requirements.

We design content to be engaging, meaningful, and relevant, incorporating the latest technologies, processes, and standards

We integrate all applicable industry benchmarks, such as Mandated Technical Competencies (MTCs), National Occupational Standards (NOS), employer-specific requirements, Codes of Practice, regulations (such as BS 76 relevant legislation, into a well-balanced structure.

This structure is then bro into units, learning outcome assessment criteria, carefu blended to provide a coher and refined set of content f the qualification.

Assessment validity is paramount As such, we

design with input from industry experts, training providers, and subject-matter specialists to ensure assessments are fair, rigorous, and meaningful for learners

Qualifications are regulated, and the body responsible for this in England is Ofqual, which ensures we meet rigorous delivery, quality assurance, and governance standards So, naturally, we also follow rigorous documented procedures throughout our development.

Continuous improvement

Qualifications aren’t static We gather feedback from providers, employers, and learners and then review it on an ongoing basis, especially following regulatory updates or technical changes. This ensures that every qualification remains and rigorous

Having worked in education for over 20 years, I can fully endorse EAL, our dedicated teams, and our industry-leading qualifications

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT EAL AND ITS WORK BY

Working on your own? Need some technical advice? Don’t know where to turn? Ask Megger What it doesn’t know about installing and testing electrical systems isn’t worth knowing Every question will be answered by the Megger Technical Team, and the best will be published in Professional Electrician So, take advantage of the ‘ every question answered’ guarantee today Email your questions to: meggermeasures@hamerville co uk

You ask:

WHAT TEST EQUIPMENT DO YOU SUGGEST FOR PROVING THAT CIRCUITS ARE DEAD BEFORE I WORK ON THEM? I’M LOOKING FOR SOMETHING THAT’S SMALL, EASY TO USE AND DOESN’T COST TOO MUCH.

Megger says:

To ensure that circuits are properly isolated, you’ll need a two-pole tester that complies with EN 61243-3:2014 Be sure to check for compliance with this important standard as non-compliant devices, although they may appear to offer similar functions, can give misleading and potentially dangerous results Our recommendation is the Megger TPT420, which meets all of your requirements It features an LED display that provides a quick indication of the voltage in the circuit under test, even if the batteries in the tester are flat or missing It also has a three-digit LCD panel that shows the actual voltage The TPT420 measures up to 1,000 V AC or DC, and using it won’t trip RCDs It’s tough and it has an IP64 ingress protection rating, so you can use it almost anywhere It even has a built-in LED torch to help in poorly lit locations As with all two-pole testers, however, you’ll need access to a known live source to check the tester If no live source is available, the battery-operated Megger MPU690 proving unit offers a very convenient alternative that’s as portable as the TPT420 itself VISIT THE MEGGER TPT420 VOLTAGE TESTER PRODUCT INFORMATION PAGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBQ006

ENTER THE CPD ZONE AND EARN 1 CPD CREDIT

TOWARDS YOUR PROFESSIONAL RECORD!

continuing professional development (CPD) can be broadly deﬁned as any type of learning you undertake which increases your knowledge, understanding and experiences of a subject area or role. To help professionals to better document and prove this process, our CPD Zone contains content and articles that have been checked, veriﬁed and accredited by a third-party specialist organisation

Collectively, the content within this section has been deemed worthy of 1 x CPD credit, or one hours’ worth of CPD

Once this content has been consumed, readers will have the opportunity to scan a QR code which will provide a bespoke, downloadable certificate that can be used as part of a

professional’s ongoing CPD record

This means that if you’re a monthly reader of PE, you could earn up to 11 credits, or 11 hours’ worth of CPD, just by reading a regular copy of your favourite independent industry magazine in 2025

DO NOT SCAN THE QR CODE UNLESS YOU HAVE READ ALL OF THE CONTENT WITHIN THIS SECTION!

A large element of CPD involves self-certification and relies on professionals being honest about what they have actually read, consumed and digested A QR code and RDRLink code have been placed with the final article in this month’s CPD Zone and ONLY once you have read ALL of the articles within this section, should you then scan/enter the code to receive your bespoke certificate

By skipping any of these steps, you’re not just cheating the system, but yourself and your fellow professionals at the same time!

NEW USERS – ACCESS YOUR BESPOKE CPD CERTIFICATE IN FIVE STEPS

1. Read ALL of the content and articles included within this month’s CPD Zone

2. Scan the QR code or enter the RDRLink code with the last article in this section

3. Enter your email address.

4. Fill out your details on the contact form.

5 Download your certiﬁcate for use as part of your annual CPD record

PREVIOUS USERS – ACCESS YOUR CPD CERTIFICATE IN FOUR STEPS

1. Read ALL of the content and articles included within this month’s CPD Zone

2. Scan the QR code or enter the RDRLink code with the last article in this section.

3. Enter your name and email address.

4. Download your certiﬁcate for use as part of your annual CPD record

All certiﬁcates are valid for one year from the issue date If you’re having any issues with downloading your certiﬁcate or using the system, please email us at: pe@hamerville.co.uk

THE CODEBREAKERS

I t is not uncommon for a job that initially appears straightfor ward to evolve into a significantly more complex and challenging installation

There are a few things going on within this installation, but the first point I would make is the proposed work of an additional fused connection unit for the heating engineer should not proceed until an EICR is carried out to see if the electrical installation is safe for continued ser vice.

One of the potential issues would be the ser vice cut- out fuse which looks like a cast iron model and potentially double pole fusing. There also seems to be a gap in the top of the ser vice cut- out allowing access to live par ts and it also looks like it is unsealed

I can only assume the cover of the consumer unit was not fitted due to the connection of the PVC twin and ear th cable at the front of the unit, which again is allowing access to live par ts

With the build-up of dust within the bottom of the consumer unit this has clearly been in a dangerous condition for quite some time.

When discovering this type of installation whilst carr ying out alterations, additions or a periodic inspection and testing of an electrical installation, it would attract a C1 as there is danger present

GET THE BOOK AND CRACK THOSE CODES! Updated for BS 7671:2018+A2:2022, NAPIT ’s EICR Codebreakers publication is purpose -written to aid contractors, inspectors and clients, and now includes updates to align with Amendment 2 of the IE T 18th Edition Wiring Regulations The book is the per fect technical aid for electrical professionals and their customers

BASHER 58: I ONLY WENT OUT TO INSTALL A FUSED CONNEC TION UNIT FOR THE HEATING ENGINEER!

tant EICR codes? Ever y month the technical team at NAPIT will be studying your latest ‘Caught on Camera’ photos and oﬀering advice on the next steps, should you find a similar installation. If you want the team at NAPIT to help crack your codes then send your pic tures through to us at: pe@hamer ville.co.uk

O f ten within this industr y we come across a DIYer who enthusiastically connec ts light fittings that they have purchased and we will of ten have to car r y out remedial wor ks af ter wards

I n the case of this light fitting it does leave one almost speechless and the usual first thought of ‘just why?’

D ur ing the EICR we must consider produc t standards and any elec tr ical equipment must meet either Br itish or har monised standards – a UKCE or a CE mar k – or the designer would have needed to have declared a depar ture from BS 7671 and that it was no less safe in ter ms of complying with those standards

Obviously, this light fitting does not meet any standards at all. I t has several issues associated to it, with access to live par ts being one of them.

This would lead to a C1 classification, as there is danger present

DSPG SERVICES: NOW WHERE SHALL I PUT MY JACKET?

REPLACING AN ELECTRIC SHOWER

This article from the experts at NICEIC outlines the veriﬁcation steps necessary when replacing an electric shower in an existing premises. It considers the assessment of the existing installation prior to work commencing, the assessment of current-carrying capacity taking into account ambient installation conditions and the selection of a suitably rated replacement unit.

Prior to additions and alterations being made to an electrical circuit it is necessary to determine whether the installation is suitable for the alteration, as outlined in regulation 132 16

Thereafter, an assessment should be made to determine, so far as is reasonably practicable, the current capacity of the installed cable based on its uncorrected current rating (It) after the application of any relevant correction factors for ambient conditions such as grouping with other circuits (Cg) and presence of thermal insulation

Generally, the available ratings are between 7 5 kW and 10 8 kW

Historically, however, electric showers were only available towards the lower end of these ratings, which can lead to an incompatible shower being installed when replacing a dated shower and using a ‘one size fits all’ approach This can result in overloading of the cable and circuit accessories, potentially leading to a fire hazard

Reverification of the circuit

When replacing a shower, a simple verification process should be carried out to ensure the circuit is suitable for the altered load The steps for this are detailed within this article for the following scenario:

cable run is through the loft, where the cable is covered by 100 mm of thermal insulation for several metres (installation method 100) The cable is not grouped with other circuits and no other rating factors apply A 40 A double pole isolator is located outside of the bathroom

(i) Determine the design current rating of the new shower (Ib)

Shower manufacturers will declare the power rating of their devices; the rating is generally provided at two nominal voltages, 230 V and 240 V The diﬀerent voltages yield diﬀerent power ratings

Having determined the current-carrying capacity for the cable in its as installed condition (Iz), a suitably rated replacement shower unit can be obtained and fitted

Why reverify the circuit?

Electric showers come in a variety of ratings, usually given in the unit of power; Watts, or kilowatts (kW).

A new electric shower is to be installed to an existing circuit The client has supplied a 9 kW rated shower, which is to replace a faulty 7 5 kW device

The cable serving the shower is a ‘twin and earth’ type with 6.0 mm2 live conductors and a 2.5 mm2 circuit protective conductor (cpc)

The circuit is protected by a 32 A circuit breaker to BS EN 60898, and a 30 mA Type AC residual current device (RCD) to BS EN 61008-1 The measured voltage at the shower position is 245 V.

The most detrimental part of the

This is due to the ﬁxed resistance of a shower An example of a rating that comes within the manufacturer’s instructions is reproduced as Fig 1

As the shower is a resistive load, the higher the voltage, the greater the current demand The designer must consider the actual voltage at the point

of installation

The tolerance for a 230 V nominal supply is -6 % + 10%, which is a range of 216 V to 253 V

Without prior knowledge of the voltage, the designer should assume a voltage at the upper range of the scale. When using measured values, the designer must consider that voltage varies depending on the load of the network

An eﬀective way to obtain the design current is to ﬁrst determine the resistance of the shower as shown below:

With the resistance known, the current can be found with the known voltage of the installation Equation 2 determines this to be 38 28 A

If 230 V was used to determine the current of the proposed 9 kW shower, the current demand would be 35 9 A

The shower being replaced that is rated at 7 5 kW had a current demand of 31 9 A at 245 V

(ii) Determine the current carrying capacity of the cable (Iz)

To determine the current-carrying capacity of the cable (Iz), the tabulated value of current (It) is first required This is then adjusted due to any correction factors that may apply to the circuit. Appendix 4 of BS 7671 contains tabulated values of current-carrying capacity, and the correction factors that may be applied to these values

Ta b l e 4 D 5 f r o m BS 7671 ,

s h

h e d f l

i n / t h r e

- c

r e a n d e a r t h’ t y p e c a b l e s . F r o m F i g 2 , t h e t a b u l a t e d c u r r e n t

r a t i n g ( It) o f i n s u l a t e d a n d s h e a t h e d f l a t

c a b l e h a v i n g 6 0 m m 2 l i v e c o n d u c t o r s

u s i n g M e t h o d 1 0 0 i s 3 4 A

To d e t e r m i n e t h e c a b l e’s c u r r e n t c a r r y i n g c a p a c i t y ( I z) , t h e r e l e v a n t

c o r r e c t i o n f a c t o r s s h a l l b e a

Equation

(iii) Ensure coordination between the load (Ib), the protective device (In), and the cable (Iz).

The requirements of indents (i) and (ii) of regulation 433 1 1, which is condensed into the expression shown below, shall be met to ensure the cable is suitably protected against overload

Formula

Where:

Ib = design current

In = Current rating of protective device

Iz = Cable current carrying capacity

The current values from the scenario can now be inserted into the expression:

Equation 4

The existing circuit-breaker and cable are not suitable for the proposed load Equation 4 shows the load current is greater than the protective device and the cable rating

Regulation 433 1 states: “Every circuit shall be designed so that a small overload of long duration is unlikely to occur ”

Installing the proposed shower on the existing circuit would result in the cable being subjected to sustained overload

As the protective device would take longer to operate under such overload conditions, over time the cumulative thermal stress may potentially damage the cable, isolator, circuit-breaker and shower, leading to a potential ﬁre hazard

To satisfy the requirements of BS 7671, circuit upgrades will be required to accommodate the new shower Alternatively, the client may decide to replace the shower with one of the same rating or lower

Calculating the maximum shower rating for an existing circuit

Using the power rating of the existing

faulty 7 5 kW shower, the requirements of BS 7671 are met

Equation 5

A simple method to determine the maximum power rating of the replacement electric shower, without the need to upgrade the circuit, is to multiply the circuit breaker rating by the phase voltage as shown in Equation 6

It may not always be the case that the existing circuit satisﬁes BS 7671 It is possible the existing circuit may be found to be non-compliant A common example of this is where an additional layer of thermal insulation has been installed within the loft, further covering the cable. This can change the installation method from 100 to 101, which reduces the current-carrying capacity of the cable by approximately 20%

Further verification

The article, up to this point, has focused on ensuring that the current-carrying capacity of the circuit is suitable for the new load. Further checks are required to ensure that the circuit is in a satisfactory condition for continued use

These further checks include inspections of the existing circuit to ensure it has been operating correctly with the existing shower These inspections would include checking the circuit-breaker, circuit accessories, and cable terminations for signs of thermal damage

Testing will supplement these inspections to ensure the requirements of automatic disconnection of supply and additional protection are met Voltage drop verification for long circuits should also be considered

Summary

When replacing an electric shower, the person responsible for undertaking the proposed work should ensure that the existing circuit meets the necessary requirements of BS 7671 before making an addition or alteration, and in particular, ensuring that the circuit has sufficient capacity for the proposed replacement shower

The current demand of an electric shower is proportional to the voltage of the installation. This is something that should not be overlooked, as it may be the diﬀerence between a compliant and non-compliant design

Additionally, the inspector may find during checks that the circuit is not suitable for the existing load This can be due to energy efficiency measures that have been carried out after the original installation, such as the installation of additional loft insulation.

ACHIEVING BALANCE

In this latest part of a series of articles, aimed at helping readers to gain a better understanding of three-phase supplies, Jake Green, Head of Technical Engagement at Scolmore Group, takes a closer look at electrical load distribution across three phases.

Balancing electrical loads across three phases is crucial to the safe, eﬃcient, and reliable operation of everything from industrial machinery to commercial buildings and residential complexes Understanding how to properly distribute loads across three-phase systems is essential for design engineers

This article considers the principles, significance, methods, and best practices for balancing loads in three-phase electrical systems

It will also explore the consequences of imbalance, the technologies available for monitoring and correcting issues, and the practicalities involved in real-world applications

Understanding three-phase power systems

Three-phase power is favoured for its efficiency in delivering large amounts of power and providing a reliable supply In a three-phase system, electrical current is distributed over three conductors, each carrying an alternating current (AC) of the same frequency and voltage amplitude but offset in phase by 120 degrees

In the UK the three phases are labelled as Brown (L1), Black (L2), and Grey (L3). Power is typically supplied as a three-phase, four-wire system (where a neutral wire is also present), but can also be supplied as a three-phase, three-wire system (without a distributed neutral)

The advantages of three-phase power include:

● Consistent power delivery: The power delivered by a three-phase system is more constant, reducing pulsations and enabling smoother operation of motors and equipment

● Reduced conductor material: For the same amount of power, three-phase systems use less conductor material than single-phase systems

● Greater efficiency: Equipment designed for three-phase systems tends to be more efficient and powerful than their single-phase counterparts

What does load balancing mean?

Load balancing in a three-phase system refers to the even distribution

of electrical load (the power demand from devices and systems) across all three phases. Ideally, each phase should carry the same amount of current at the same power factor, resulting in a balanced system

Perfect balance is rarely achieved due to the varying demands of different equipment, but getting as close to balance as possible is important for the following reasons:

Efficiency

Balanced loads make full use of the available power, reducing losses in the system

Safety

Imbalance can cause excessive heating in conductors and equipment, increasing the risk of fire or failure

Equipment longevity

Persistent imbalance stresses transformers, generators, and motors, reducing their lifespan

Voltage stability

A balanced system maintains voltage levels more consistently across all phases

Causes of load imbalance

Load imbalance can stem from multiple factors:

● Distribution of single-phase loads: Most commercial and residential loads are single-phase, such as lighting and small appliances, which may be connected unevenly across the three phases.

● Uneven industrial processes: Machinery and industrial equipment with varying power requirements can create imbalances

● System alteration or addition: As new loads are added or changed

over time, careful planning is necessary to maintain balance

● Faulty equipment: Malfunctioning equipment can dramatically shift the load on one phase

Where an unbalanced load is likely to exist, it is essential that a distributed neutral is provided since a neutral current will be created The value of neutral current will depend on the imbalance and the associated power factors and triplen harmonics within the system.

Triplen harmonics will be considered in a subsequent article However, under certain instances the current flow in the neutral can exceed that in the line conductors

There are a range of options for load balancing beyond those highlighted here, involving more complex systems. However, when starting out careful consideration should be given to:

1 Planning and system design

The foundation for load balancing is laid during the design phase By analysing the anticipated loads and their connection points, designers can plan circuits such that the expected demands are evenly distributed across all three phases.

2 Circuit distribution

Electricians should ensure that single-phase circuits (such as those supplying lighting or standard outlets) are allocated as evenly as possible across the three phases in distribution boards

Best practices for load balancing

Design for flexibility

Anticipate changes in load and provide capacity for adjustments

Label circuits clearly

Proper labelling in distribution panels assists in future troubleshooting and load shifting

Regular audits

Encourage the client to undertake routine inspections and load measurements.

Incorporate technology

Use smart meters and monitoring systems for real-time data and alerts

Educate staff

Ensure maintenance and operations personnel understand the importance and methods of load balancing.

Challenges and future directions

While balancing loads is relatively straightforward, real-world factors present challenges, including:

● Changing demands: Occupancy patterns, equipment use, and seasonal changes can all shift loads unpredictably.

● Distributed energy resources: The integration of solar PV and other renewables may introduce new sources of imbalance if not carefully managed

● Increased complexity: As buildings and factories become more interconnected and automated, tracking and adjusting loads requires increasingly sophisticated systems

Conclusion

Balancing electrical loads across three phases is both an art and a science, requiring careful planning, monitoring, and a proactive approach to maintenance and system design

The benefits – increased efficiency, extended equipment life, improved safety and operational reliability, and reduced neutral current – are well worth the effort

Q & A

NICEIC FAQs

Each month, our team of expert, technical engineers answer essential questions

Each month, our team of expert, technical engineers answer essential questions from NICEIC-certiﬁed businesses – here are a few of the latest queries.

How quickly will a 6 A rated BS EN 60898 Type B circuit-breaker operate under a fault current of 20 A? 30 seconds

Q A Q A

Q We are working in a domestic apartment block and have been questioned over the types of cable supports that we have installed. Within the communal area where a suspended ceiling is to be installed, we have supported the cables using steel ties to a cable tray system. Within the individual

If we look at Figure 3A4 in Appendix 3 of BS 7671, we can see the time curve for Type B circuit-breakers to BS EN 69898 and RCDs to BS EN 61009-1

Typically, for cables that are installed above a the cables are contained within the ceiling void, and the plasterboard is intact, they are protected from the

By reading “up” from the 20 A prospective current on the horizontal axis until it intersects with the curve for a 6 A device, and then reading “across” from the point of intersection, we can see that it meets the vertical axis at 30 seconds

What is the true power if the current is 20 A, the voltage is 230 V and the load results in a phase angle between them of 10 degrees?

Q We have been asked to install some additional lighting on existing circuits within a school. All of the additional lighting will be installed using surface-mounted conduit. However, the existing circuits that we are extending are wired using thermoplastic insulated and sheathed cables buried in the walls. Do we need to upgrade the circuits to include additional protection?

4,530 Watts

The formula for single-phase power (referred to as ‘True Power’) is: P = V × I × cos(phase angle)

where P = Power in Watts V = Voltage in Volts

I = Current in Amperes

And the phase angle is the angular diﬀerence in degrees between voltage and current

A The alterations/additions that you are undertaking on the existing circuit(s) would need to meet the requirements of BS 7671 (641.5).

Therefore, in our question that would be:

P = 230 × 20 × cos(10°)

P = 230 × 20 × 0 9848

P = 4,530 Watts

However, this would not necessarily require the existing circuit to be upgraded, provided that there

If you did not consider the phase angle and simply multiplied the voltage by the current, this is referred to as Apparent Power, and has the units of Volt Amperes (VA)

Apparent Power = V × I

Apparent Power = 230 × 20

in accordance with the requirements of regulation

Apparent Power = 4,600 VA

And we can calculate the Power Factor using the formula:

It should also be noted that even in the event of the plasterboards failing, the cables will pass through joists, where this is necessary for their routing, further limiting

(Note: it was one of those “light-bulb” moments when it was explained to us that a 6 A circuit-breaker does not operate instantaneously when the current exceeds 6 A!

In fact, a 6 A circuit-breaker will not operate at all until the current exceeds approximately 1.45 times the nominal rating, i e 1 45 x 6 A = 8 7 A)

!"#$%& ! !"#$ !"#$% !" !"##$ !""#$%&' !"#$% !" !" !"#$% !"#$%& ! !!!"# !!!"" !"#$% !"#$%& ! ! !"#

The Power Factor has no units and will always be between zero (0) and one (1).

If you are an NICEICfor convenient CPD resources, scan the QR

IS EMERGENCY LIGHTING COMPLIANCE OPTIONAL?

Gary Tomlin, former electrician and Technical Sales Manager at Channel, emphasises the need for vigilance when it comes to emergency lighting installations.

In the world of building safety, few systems are as critical – and as misunderstood – as emergency lighting Contractors, wholesalers, and speciﬁers must therefore be vigilant against misinformation that circulates in the industry, particularly when it comes to compliance

Emergency lighting isn’t just a best practice; it is a legal requirement in the UK, governed by strict standards that determine how, where, and what type of lighting must be installed. Ignoring these regulations can lead to serious consequences, both in terms of safety and liability

The legal framework: BS 5266 and UK law

The cornerstone of emergency lighting compliance in the UK is the British Standard BS 5266-1, which outlines the

design, installation, and maintenance requirements for emergency lighting systems. This standard is referenced in UK building regulations and ﬁre safety legislation, making it a legal obligation for most premises – including commercial buildings, care homes, hospitals, schools, and oﬃces

BS 5266 mandates that emergency lighting must automatically activate in the event of a power failure, providing suﬃcient illumination to enable safe evacuation. It applies to escape routes, open areas, high-risk task areas, and locations where safety equipment is stored or used Compliance is not optional – it is enforceable under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

Photometric data: proof of compliance

Photometric data is the technical evidence

that a lighting product meets the required lux levels

In emergency lighting, this data describes how much light a luminaire emits, how far that light spreads in a space, and whether it

THE CPD ZONE

meets the required brightness levels for safe evacuation routes and open areas

Photometric data tends to be measured in spacing ratios (or spacing tables) This indicates the maximum allowable distance between emergency luminaires to ensure that the required minimum illuminance levels are achieved throughout escape routes and open areas

These ratios are derived from the photometric data of each luminaire, taking into account mounting height, light output, and distribution Without this data, contractors cannot verify compliance, and wholesalers cannot guarantee that the products they sell are ﬁt for purpose

Alarmingly, some manufacturers in the emergency lighting market still don't provide spacing information on their packaging, leaving contractors to guess at proper installation distances This creates signiﬁcant compliance risks and potential insurance issues if systems fail to meet required illuminance levels

Channel is including photometric data directly on its product packaging, providing wholesalers with the information they need to ensure that only compliant products are sold at trade counters.

Common misconceptions

Now you know about the importance of photometric data, it’s probably not surprising to hear that one of the most pervasive myths in the industry is that any emergency light will do

Contractors often face pressure to cut costs, and wholesalers may unknowingly oﬀer non-compliant products. But cheap lighting solutions can be dangerously misleading

Without the correct photometric data and certiﬁcation, these products may fail to meet the required lux levels or duration standards, rendering them illegal and ineﬀective

The reality is that quality emergency lighting with superior photometric performance can actually reduce total installation costs

For example, a cheap ‘emergency light’ might provide only 5-6 metre spacing, while a quality product can achieve 15-20 metre spacing This means fewer ﬁxtures are needed for the same coverage, reducing both material and labour costs while ensuring compliance

Contractors are increasingly turning down proﬁtable work due to uncertainty around compliance Wholesalers, too, may be unaware of the legal requirements, inadvertently supplying products that do not meet the standard

Lux level requirements

Lux levels – the measure of light intensity –are a critical part of emergency lighting compliance BS 5266 speciﬁes minimum illuminance levels for diﬀerent areas:

Escape routes

Must be illuminated to at least 1 lux along the centre line

Open areas (anti-panic zones)

Require a minimum of 0.5 lux to prevent panic and allow safe movement

High-risk task areas

These include locations where dangerous processes occur, such as industrial kitchens or laboratories Enhanced illumination is required, often exceeding 15 lux, to ensure critical tasks can be safely completed during an emergency.

Medical facilities

Treatment rooms and operating theatres may require up to 50 lux, especially in areas like surgical suites or emergency wards

These lux levels are not arbitrary – they’re based on risk assessments and are

designed to ensure visibility and safety during evacuation Failure to meet them can result in ﬁnes, legal action, and most importantly, endanger lives

Education and awareness

To combat misinformation, continuous professional development (CPD) is essential. Training sessions, trade days, and CPD courses help contractors and wholesalers stay informed about the latest regulations, technologies, and best practices

Channel oﬀers an extensive emergency lighting CPD course, designed to raise awareness and reinforce the message that emergency lighting is a legal requirement, not a discretionary upgrade.

Compliance is a shared responsibility

Emergency lighting isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s about protecting lives

Contractors, wholesalers, and manufacturers must work together to ensure that every product installed meets the legal standards

Misinformation can lead to dangerous shortcuts, but with proper education, verified data, and a commitment to compliance, the industry can raise its standards and deliver safer environments for all

THE ELEMENT OF SURPRISE

Frank Bertie, Managing Director at NAPIT, discusses the signiﬁcance of the IP Code and dispels some myths about it.

Meeting the requirements of BS 7671 for external inﬂuences

To correctly consider the external inﬂuences for an electrical installation we have to look at it from many directions, not just outside locations, as every item of equipment or wiring system can be subject to all or some external inﬂuences

One area we need to refer to is ‘The IP Code’ One of the myths surrounding this term is the meaning of ‘IP’ It is often referred to as Ingress Protection due to the nature of the subject to prevent anything on the outside from getting in

However, this is not the case We need to refer to BS EN 60529:1992+A2:2013 in order to understand the details

The term IP actually stands for ‘International Protection’, which is not only a theoretical issue when we update our qualiﬁcations and answer exam questions, but also one which involves the ingress of barriers, enclosures, wiring systems and accessories – along with the safety implications resulting from this

Understanding the IP Code

The requirements of the IP Code, referred to in BS 7671 Appendix 1, are listed in BS EN 60529:1992+A2:2013 Degrees of protection provided by enclosures

While this system is suitable for use with most types of electrical equipment, it should not be assumed that all listed degrees of protection are applicable to a

particular type of equipment

Where the degree of protection is not clearly stated in the literature of the enclosure, the manufacturer of the equipment should be contacted to establish if it is suitable for the application.

In situations where enclosures are required to be adapted or modiﬁed for the attachment of other equipment, such as wiring systems, cables, glands and ﬁxings, the manufacturer’s instructions would have to be followed to maintain the required degree of protection

The degrees of protection are classiﬁed in three general categories:

Category 1: Protection of persons against access to hazardous parts inside enclosures

This covers protection of persons against accidental contact with live electrical parts or hazardous mechanical parts, such as switch mechanisms or rotating blades contained within the enclosure

Category 2: Protection of the equipment within the enclosure against the ingress of solid foreign objects

This involves the protection of the equipment mounted inside an enclosure against the harmful eﬀects of solid particles, such as dust

In addition, barriers, shapes or openings, or any other means, whether they are attached to the enclosure or

formed by the enclosed equipment, must be suitable to prevent or limit the penetration of speciﬁed test probes

Category 3: Protection of equipment inside an enclosure against the ingress of water

This deals with the protection of equipment from harmful eﬀects due to dripping, spraying, splashing, hosing or total immersion in water It does not include a strict classiﬁcation for resistance, corrosion prevention or resistance to other physically hazardous conditions

When one of the numbers in the code has a letter ‘X’ in place of the ﬁrst or second numeral, this indicates that category one or category two does not apply to the product

It is also used in Standards to indicate that for the range of products covered such protection is not required

The arrangement of the IP Code is illustrated in Fig 1 Table 1 illustrates the level of protection of persons 0 to 6 and

highlights the descriptions and definitions for the degree of protection against the penetration of solid foreign objects including dust

Table 2 illustrates the level of protection against water 0 to 9

Table 3 provides references and descriptions that enhance personal protection against access to hazardous parts Although optional, an additional letter can be used to enhance this personal protection.

Table 4 indicates when supplementary letters are appropriate for very speciﬁc applications As with Table 3, the use of these letters is optional

What are the external inﬂuences?

There are several Regulations within BS 7671 that must be considered when analysing the requirements for the classiﬁcation of external inﬂuences Regulation 132 5 1 states that the design of the electrical installation shall take into account the environmental conditions to which it will be subjected

Therefore, this involves a discussion with the client regarding what the installation’s intended use will be.

Regulation 132.7 states that the choice of wiring system and installation method shall include consideration of:

● The nature of the location

● The nature of the structure supporting the wiring

● Accessibility of wiring to persons and livestock

● Voltage

● The electromechanical stresses likely to occur due to short-circuit and earth fault currents

● Electromagnetic interference

● Other external inﬂuences (mechanical, thermal and those associated with ﬁre) to which the wiring is likely to be exposed during the erection of the electrical installation or in service

Regulation 133 3 states that electrical equipment shall be selected to withstand safely the stresses, the environmental conditions and the characteristics of its location

This does not stop equipment deemed not suitable for installation in a particular location, but further protection shall be provided to meet the external influences The definition of external influence has been detailed in Part 2: ‘Any influence external to an electrical installation which affects the design and the safe operation of that installation’

Section 512 external inﬂuences Regulation 512.2.2

refers to ‘appropriate additional protection’ from external inﬂuences This is for equipment in the situation it has been designed for and taking into account the condition it is likely to be subject to Section 522 states that the installation method selected shall be such that protection against the expected external inﬂuences is ensured in all appropriate parts of the wiring system

Particular care shall be taken with changes in direction and where wiring enters equipment

Regulations 522.1 to 522.15 cover the following external inﬂuences:

● Ambient temperature (AA)

● External heat sources

● Presence of water (AD) or high humidity (AB)

● Presence of solid foreign bodies (AE)

● Presence of corrosive or polluting substances (AF)

● Impact (AG)

● Vibration (AH)

● Other mechanical stresses (AJ)

● Presence of ﬂora and/or mould growth (AK)

● Presence of fauna (AL)

● Solar radiation (AN) and ultraviolet radiation

● Seismic eﬀects (AP)

● Movement of air (AR)

● Nature of processed or stored materials (BE)

● Building design (CB)

Appendix 5 (Classification of External Influences) lists the classification and condition of external influences and is shown in Fig 2

Each codiﬁcation of external inﬂuence is designated by a code comprising two capital letters and a number

The ﬁrst letter of the code is related to

the general category of external influence The second letter relates to the nature of the external influence The number relates to the class within each external influence. The code AD4 requires equipment and

accessories in that location to have at least the degree of protection of IPX4, as listed in Table 5 Another external inﬂuence is the presence of foreign solid bodies (AE) The external inﬂuence code AE3 relates to very small objects with a diameter of 1 mm or greater In order to provide protection against this, the equipment needs to meet the requirements of IP4X.

modifying any enclosure:

IP classiﬁcation testing

It is mandatory for manufacturers to carry out IP classiﬁcation testing in accordance with BS EN 60529, which allows them to mark their products in accordance with the corresponding IP rating

BS 7671 provisions for basic protection

Whenever an electrical product, such as a distribution board or consumer unit, is being installed, isolators are constructed to create barriers and enclosures to prevent against contact with live electrical components

Regulation 416 2 1 requires that live parts shall be inside enclosures or behind barriers providing at least the degree of protection IPXXB or IP2X

Regulation 416.2.2 states that a horizontal surface of a barrier or enclosure, which is readily accessible, shall provide a degree of protection of at least IPXXD or IP4X

Installers may encounter the following problems when they are creating or

● Creating would require the enclosure to meet the IP rating for the application, which is why the installer assumes the role of a manufacturer

● Modifying an enclosure would require consulting the manufacturer and following the instructions to maintain the IP rating of the enclosure

● Ensuring compatibility, when using products from diﬀerent manufacturers

● If knockouts on enclosures are removed for cable entry, it is important to ensure that the method of cable entry to the enclosure does not reduce the IP rating of that enclosure

Conclusion

It is important to establish the environment in which an electrical installation is to be installed and then to select the correct IP rated equipment to satisfy the requirements of BS 7671 Detailed information on installation and design methods can be found in the NAPIT On-site Solutions publication, available from the NAPIT Shop.

Table 5: External inﬂuences and their IP Codes

Fig 2: Appendix 5 Classiﬁcation of External Inﬂuences (BS 7671:2018+A2:2022)

ELEX 2025

CONTINUE YO UR P ROF E S SION A L DEVELOPMENT AT ELE X SHOW!

Taking place across two days at the CBS Arena in Coventry, the ELEX tour hits the road again this month. What’s more, we’ve got great news for visitors that are serious about CPD!

Recent changes to The Electrotechnical Assessment

Specification (EAS) which sets out the minimum requirements for a business to be recognised as technically competent by a Certification or Registration Body, includes a requirement for businesses to maintain appropriate records of qualifications, training (including Continuing Professional Development) and experience

To support this requirement, EVERY ELEX seminar is now CPD accredited, ensuring those individuals who make the time and eﬀort to attend will receive a direct certiﬁcate of completion, which can

form a key part of your ongoing Continuing Professional Development record.

With industry regulation and legislation changing constantly, the extensive ELEX seminar programme will cover an array of topics, including the latest Amendment 2 to the 18th Edition and the changes this covers, along with best practice and technical advice for professionals to get stuck into Presentations will be delivered by experts in their field and the only cost to delegates is their time.

All seminars will take place in the IET Seminar Theatre located centrally in the exhibition hall and there’s no need for delegates to pre-book, just pre-register to attend the show

Whether you need some advice on the direction the sector is heading, want to chat with manufacturers about their latest solutions, view live demonstrations of the latest products or bag yourself a great

YOUR S H OW, NEA R YO U. . .

● At a venue near you

● Across two days

● Free parking (van friendly)

● Free entry

● Free T-Shirt & a free bacon roll* (*limited to ﬁrst 1,000 visitors)

● Show bargains

● Hands-on demos

● Meet manufacturers

● Networking opportunities

● CPD accredited seminars and certiﬁcates

show deal on tools and equipment from leading brands, your regional ELEX tradeshow has it all

The next stop on the ELEX 2025 tour takes place this month at the CBS Arena in Coventry – 11th/12th September, 10am4pm

LOW AND BEHOLD

When it comes to designing professional landscapes, lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing aesthetics, safety, and functionality

While traditional lighting systems have their place, low-voltage lighting is becoming the go-to choice for landscape professionals Its unique combination of eﬃciency, versatility, and cost-eﬀectiveness makes it ideal for illuminating outdoor spaces

Here are six reasons why low-voltage lighting is the perfect solution for professional landscapes:

1 Energy eﬃciency

Low-voltage lighting operates on 12 volts, using a transformer to convert mains voltage to a safe 12 volt supply

Coupled with high quality LED light sources means energy consumption not only lowers operational costs but also supports sustainability – a growing priority in modern landscaping projects.

By choosing low-voltage lighting, you can create stunning eﬀects while keeping energy bills in check, making it a smart and eco-friendly option for long-term use

2. Enhanced safety

Safety is a top consideration in landscape design, especially in outdoor settings. Low-voltage systems run on a reduced electrical current, signiﬁcantly minimising the risk of electrical shocks This makes them a safer choice for installations near water features, pathways, or areas frequented by children and pets

Additionally, low-voltage lighting produces less heat, reducing the chance of accidental burns or ﬁre hazards

3. Design versatility

Low-voltage lighting oﬀers incredible ﬂexibility, making it easier to achieve the desired aesthetic for any landscape. You can use it for:

Highlighting features

Accentuate trees, sculptures, and water features with spotlights or uplights

Pathway illumination

Guide visitors safely with subtle, low-level path lights.

Mood lighting

Create a warm and inviting atmosphere with adjustable brightness levels and colour temperatures

Its versatility allows for creative layouts and unique designs that complement the natural beauty of the landscape

4. Cost-eﬀective installation and maintenance

Low-voltage lighting systems are more cost-eﬀective to install and maintain than high-voltage options They often require smaller transformers, thinner wires, and simpler connectors, which can save both time and money during installation

Moreover, their energy eﬃciency translates to reduced running costs, while the long lifespan of modern LED low-voltage lights means fewer replacements and lower maintenance expenses

5. Environmentally friendly

Sustainability is at the forefront of professional landscaping trends, and low-voltage lighting aligns perfectly

Nigel Weir, Director at Contact 19, looks into the reasons why low-voltage lighting is ideal for professional landscapes.

with this ethos Many low-voltage systems use LED bulbs, which are energy-eﬃcient and last for thousands of hours. They emit minimal heat and reduce light pollution, making them kinder to the environment

6. Easy adjustments for evolving designs

Landscapes evolve over time, whether due to seasonal changes or design updates Low-voltage lighting systems are easy to modify and expand, allowing for seamless adjustments as your landscape’s needs change.

Whether adding new ﬁxtures or tweaking the layout, the ﬂexibility of low-voltage systems ensures your lighting can grow alongside your design

Transform your landscapes with LightPro Trade

Low-voltage lighting is the ideal solution for creating breath-taking professional landscapes that are safe, energy-eﬃcient, and versatile

Whether you’re illuminating a small garden or a sprawling estate, this lighting option allows you to combine functionality with stunning design

At LightPro Trade, we specialise in high-quality low-voltage lighting systems designed for professional landscapes

I’d recommend that you explore our range of products and discover how we can help you bring your outdoor spaces to life

GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE LIGHTPRO TRADE RANGE OF LOW-VOLTAGE LIGHTING SYSTEMS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBQ013

Daniel Mahdavi,

Head of Product Development

at Integral LED, explores ﬁve key trends that are helping to transform residential lighting designs.

Lighting has moved beyond utility and today, it's a deﬁning element of residential interior design

From smart controls to natural ambience, the latest LED innovations deliver on style, sustainability, and performance

Here are ﬁve key trends that are shaping how we light homes up and down the country:

1 Natural-looking LED light

Full-spectrum LED technology, such as Bridgelux Thrive, brings the qualities of daylight indoors

With a CRI over 98 and smooth

Spectral Power Distribution (no harsh blue peaks or cyan dips), these LEDs reveal true-to-life colours and textures, making them ideal for high-end residential applications

2. COB LED strip lighting

Forget the sometimes-dotty look of traditional LED strip. Chip-on-Board (COB) strip lighting oﬀers seamless, spotless illumination, which is perfect for stairs, under cabinets, and shelving

3. Sleek track systems

Track lighting is now a premium choice for residential interiors, offering flexible and stylish solutions

Low-voltage 48 V magnetic tracks allow spotlights and linear luminaires to be repositioned with ease, supporting a wide range of design aesthetics – from modern minimalism to industrial chic

4. Ultra-thin bezels

Minimal trims are in New GU10 and integrated downlights now feature bezels as slim as 1 mm, reducing ceiling clutter and focusing attention on interior features rather than the ﬁxtures themselves

5. Smart and adaptive lighting

Smart control is becoming the norm

Nowadays, lighting can now be adjusted via App, remote, or voice (Alexa/Google Home), while motion sensors oﬀer automatic activation

Features like dim-to-warm transitions additionally help to create dynamic, adaptable environments

Today’s LED lighting blends eﬃciency, aesthetics, and control – transforming residential spaces into reﬁned, responsive environments without major cost increases

In this case study article, we discover more about how Ovia has helped to light up the UK’s number one Jiu-Jitsu Academy.

DOWNLIGHTS AND TAKEDOWNS

Wout to upgrade the lighting in two of its studios, the goal was clear: create safe, functional, and visually striking environments for both training and welcoming members

Ovia delivered the perfect solution for the project with two of its core products –Sprite 35 W recessed downlights and Inceptor Duo up-and-down linear luminaires.

A warm reception

The installations were carried out at the organisation’s West Midlands-based academies located in Sutton Coldﬁeld and Solihull, with the gyms’ matted training zones and reception areas showcasing the installer-friendly design of Ovia’s lighting solutions

“Installing the Ovia Sprite downlights was an absolute pleasure”, says electrician James Papageorge (Live Sparks), who was tasked with the job

“The push-ﬁt connectors streamlined the whole process, allowing for rapid and eﬃcient wiring without compromising on reliability

“This feature alone shaved valuable time oﬀ the installation, and that’s a win for any installer working on a tight schedule.”

James was equally impressed with the Sprite’s click-connect feature which made removal of the downlights a breeze

He continued: “This thoughtful design doesn’t just beneﬁt the installer; it also proved a game-changer for the decorator

“With the ability to detach the lights safely and quickly, the painter could touch up the ceiling without worrying about the

no risks – just straightforward access that kept the project moving smoothly ”

Sleek aesthetics

Above the matted areas, the Sprite downlights provided bright, even illumination tailored to the demands of a high-energy jiu-jitsu gym Their recessed design ensured a clean, unobstructed ﬁnish, while delivering the lumen output needed for members to train eﬀectively and safely.

The reception area has also beneﬁtted from the same sleek aesthetic and dependable performance, creating a professional ﬁrst impression for visitors

Ovia’s Sprite recessed LED downlights with CTA switch are IP54-rated aluminium downlights supplied with TRIAC dimmable drivers which are pre-wired with a Fast Fit Flow connector or 3-in-1 multi-function dimming option for quick and easier installation

There are four sizes available and a choice of 10, 13, 18, 25 and 35 W versions, to cover a wide range of installation types

James also recommended Ovia’s Inceptor Duo for a particular area within the overall space Duo is a sleek up-and-down dimmable linear luminaire and it provided the ideal lighting solution on the small mezzanine ﬂoor where the ceiling is low and light was needed to brighten up the area

Inceptor Duo oﬀers installers and their clients a complete custom dual lighting solution and is perfect for accentuating design features both high and low. It is available in two lengths – 1,200 and 1,500 mm – and two wattages – 42 and 56 W

There are three colour options to cover all décor requirements – black, grey and white The luminaire features a dual CTA switch – OFF, cool white, warm white and day light –and the up and down lights can be controlled separately

The Inceptor Sustainability Promise

When purchasing a product like the Inceptor Duo, you’re also investing in a sustainable future The Inceptor Sustainability Promise drives the decisions and actions of Ovia as the company prioritise sustainability in all aspects of its business operations

To comply with the Inceptor Sustainability Promise, products are tested to complete the TM66 form created by CIBSE The testing involves gathering thorough sustainability evidence which supports the speciﬁcations of Ovia’s product ranges

The column where you get to put your lighting questions to the head of the Ovia lighting business, Mike Collins, and his team of technical experts.

QDOES HAVING A 90-MINUTE CERTIFICATE SATISFY 30- AND 60- MINUTE CEILING CONSTRUCTIONS?

WIN A PACK OF INCEPTOR MILLIS!

Ovia is oﬀering three readers the chance to get their hands on a multi-pack box of ten standard white Inceptor Millis.

Inceptor Milli is a dimmable, fixed, fire-rated LED downlight that is compact in design but packed full of features. It combines style and functionality to provide installers with a downlight that is quick and easy to fit and offers a raft of features at the flick of a switch

With this one fitting you can switch seamlessly between 4 W and 6 4 W power outputs and can also switch the colour temperatures between 2700K (Warm White), 4000K (Cool White) and 6500K (Daylight). With a high IP65-rating, Milli is available both as a standard/fixed or baffle version

A rotatable insulation cover allows you to install the downlights safely under insulation but also adjust the cover allowing for 5 mm extra clearance On the standard/fixed Milli downlight the insulation cover can be twisted to the up and down position and still fit in a 60 mm void The baffle version fits in a 60 mm void when the insulation cover is down, and the plasterboard is a minimum thickness of 12 5 cm

The fittings are supplied pre-wired with a fast-fit, 3 pole & loop Flow connector A loose push-fit Flow connector is also supplied in the box which ensures a quick and easy installation process Five bezel finishes are available – White, Black, Chrome, Satin Chrome and Antique Brass.

HOW TO ENTER

ENTER THE FREE PRIZE DRAW TO WIN A PACK OF INCEPTOR MILLI DOWNLIGHTS BY FILLING OUT THE CONTACT FORM AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBQ016

Deadline for entries: 10/10/2025 Usual T&Cs apply

Not automatically A 90-minute fire-rated ceiling certification demonstrates that a system can withstand fire exposure for 90 minutes, but it doesn’t guarantee compliance with 30- or 60-minute rated construction without verification against the specific test standard and installation detail

A 90-minute ceiling is materially different to that of a 30- or 60-minute ceiling, which is why testing verification is required for all scenarios Each rating has its own test, so they will need to have passed all three tests to ensure the full rating requirement.

For many applications, a system rated at 90 minutes can exceed the requirements of 30- or 60-minute ceilings, but you must confirm that the specific product or system is tested and certified for these lower ratings under the relevant BS EN or UL standards

Installers must also ensure that the product’s certification covers the exact ceiling construction (suspended grid, plasterboard, etc.) and penetrations (downlights, access hatches, or cable trays) they’re working with Some 90-minute systems may require additional components (intumescent collars, sealants) to meet lower fire ratings depending on the penetrations made

Always check the test evidence and field of application within the manufacturer ’s fire test reports to ensure that using a 90-minute certified product meets or exceeds 30- or 60-minute ceiling requirements within your specific installation context Ovia’s fire rated downlights all feature 30-, 60-, and 90- minute fire ratings, across solid timber, I joists, and metal web joists

The regulations that cover the testing of downlights are BS 476: Part 21: 1987; BS EN 1365-2: 2014 and BS EN 1363-1: 2020

Ovia’s fire-rated downlights include the Inceptor Milli and FLAMEGUARD GU10 ranges

PUT YOUR QUESTION TO THE ASK OVIA TEAM AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBQ017

Lee Brodie, Technical

Manager

at Collingwood Lighting, provides a step-by-step guide to installing the new DALI 2 compatible Salvus Max emergency lighting bulkhead.

YOU’RE SAFE WITH SALVUS

Intelligent lighting systems can save your customer the time of manually testing their emergency lighting to ensure they remain compliant

In an emergency situation it is the building owner’s duty to ensure that individuals can get to a place of safety within an allotted time Emergency lighting reduces panic and could save lives, especially if there is a mains failure

It is vital that such systems work, and it is the “responsible person’s” legal duty to make sure that they’re tested regularly to ensure that they continue working and that the results are recorded.

Taking the hassle out of testing

One of the biggest beneﬁts of DALI 2 emergency lighting systems is to ensure that such testing takes place with minimal or no disruption to the occupants

Instead of having to walk around the building testing and/or checking the LED indicator status of each ﬁtting, you can

schedule the testing via a building management system (BMS) to perform the tests and record the results

An appointed person can then either check the electronic logbook or receive a message about any faulty units and arrange for maintenance or replacement The log will record the nature of the fault and identify the unit that needs maintenance

In most building management systems, you can plot the locations of emergency lighting on drawings and add the type of luminaire and battery information This allows the engineer to prepare in advance and identify which luminaire has failed to avoid multiple visits.

Once on-site they can clearly see which unit needs attention because, just like a self-test or manual version, the LED light on the faulty ﬁtting will ﬂash

The standards state that emergency lighting needs testing regularly to ensure that it still operates correctly There are two tests that need

completing and recording:

1. The ﬁrst is a monthly functional test that simulates a power failure to check that the ﬁtting will provide the illumination required for the location.

2 The second test is an annual duration test This simulates a full power outage to conﬁrm that the lights will work for their full duration – generally three hours

Using a DALI 2 system you can schedule these tests for when there will be minimal disruption, such as in the middle of the night. For properties that need 24/7 coverage, such as hospitals or hotels, you can schedule them to test in groups or as alternate luminaires so that there is always some provision You should also note that these timings are the bare minimum, and a risk assessment may require you to carry out these tests more frequently

HOW TO INSTALL THE SALVUS MAX

Step 1

In this example, the fitting will be for an industrial area, so I will be installing Collingwood Lighting’s new Salvus Max emergency bulkhead to the cable tray near the ceiling Mounted at 15 metres, it provides the necessary 1 lux escape route lighting at floor level when they are 29 metres apart

Step 3

Having prepared the fitting at desk height, I secure it to the cable tray using metal cable ties

Step 5

The next job is to wire up the DALI pair cables into the PCB driver. This DALI pair is not polarity sensitive, so it does not matter which wire goes into which push fit DALI terminal

Step 7

After installing this fitting, I now need to plug the power and data into the lighting control module (LCM) This acts as the “brain” of the DALI 2 system It receives and processes information from the emergency lighting and from any sensors, switches, or control devices for the general lighting

Step 2

In preparation I need to drill through the knockouts at the base, through which I will feed metal cable ties to fix it to the cable tray I also need to drill from the side, which is where I will feed through the DALI multi-core cable

Step 4

I now feed the multi-core cable into the fitting

Step 6

DALI 2 is an open protocol software so it will communicate with all modern building management systems This is not as complicated as you may think, and most software providers oﬀer training to contractors or have engineers that will come to site to help

I do the same for the mains wiring which will power up the battery This then plugs into the PCB which controls and regulates the charge for the battery from the mains supply. Having push fit terminals and plug in leads certainly make this a lot easier when working above head height

Step 8

I repeat steps 1-7 for other emergency fittings and DALI 2 exit signage before commissioning the emergency lighting system for the premises This involves assigning each fitting an address so that the system recognises it before programming in the functionality

Final thoughts

The actual installation of DALI emergency lighting is no more complicated than a conventional emergency ﬁtting The only real diﬀerence is connecting the data cables, but as these are not polarity sensitive, there is no fear of getting them

the wrong way round. The push ﬁt terminal and plug in leads make it a lot easier to install above head height It is well worth learning how to commission DALI 2 systems through a training course as you can then oﬀer your customer added value from their installation

A BULK ORDER

Bulkheads are, by design, robust and durable They primarily provide general lighting rather than a decorative solution, but this doesn’t diminish the importance of considering diﬀerent factors when specifying a bulkhead

Given the need for bulkheads to be strong and oﬀer longevity, it is wise to check IP and IK protection These are clear indicators of what pressures and environments the ﬁtting can withstand –and more importantly, operate safely within

Dust and water protection

By choosing an IP rating of 65, you can be sure that the bulkhead oﬀers the ability to withstand dust and water This level of IP rating oﬀers the highest level of dust protection, meaning it's completely dust-tight

Regarding water, it's protected against water jets from any direction This makes an IP65 bulkhead suitable for application in even the most arduous environments. With regard to IK ratings, this scale represents a product’s resistance to external mechanical impacts IK10 is the highest level, so specifying a bulkhead at IK10 ensures it can withstand a signiﬁcant impact without sustaining any damage

Future-prooﬁng is also a key factor Look for a plug and upgrade system, such

as the one featured in the new Bulkhead Combo from LEDVANCE This luminaire provides optional integration of sensors and/or emergency modules, to enhance functionality as needs and requirements change, whilst also making it a low-cost solution to the end user

Longevity is an additional important consideration As bulkheads oﬀer general lighting with a focus on function rather than form, there will be little need to change the luminaires to match upgraded decor or design

With this in mind, a solution that can be ﬁtted and remain in-situ for a long time is ideal A lifespan of 50,000 hours is the perfect solution to deliver this, as not only does it reduce maintenance costs, but also time and resources, each of which limits carbon footprint

Linked closely to this is performance and efficiency As bulkheads can be on for long periods of time, given the areas they illuminate, looking for high-levels of efficiency is beneficial.

Choosing a bulkhead of 120 lm/W will deliver this With regard to performance, specifying an ultra-low ﬂicker solution will ensure a comfortably lit environment that ensures optimum occupant safety

Finally, ﬂexibility and customisation options are incredibly helpful Being

Peter Alexander, Head of Sales for UK & Ireland at LEDVANCE, discusses what to look for when specifying a bulkhead LED luminaire.

able to specify one solution with the ability to match the requirements to the application allow for an easy and adaptable installation

For example, the LEDVANCE Bulkhead Combo features three selectable wattages – 9, 13, and 16 –and three colour temperatures to choose from – 3000K, 4000K and 5700K By oﬀering this customisation, the bulkhead becomes an adaptable lighting solution that meets the needs of a wide variety of installations

Choose wisely

By understanding these considerations and factors for specifying a bulkhead, the most robust solution, that also delivers excellent performance, can easily be identiﬁed And, by choosing an LED bulkhead from a trusted lighting manufacturer, peace of mind and reliability will also be assured

A TRUST EXERCISE

An NHS Trust delivering vital services to thousands of patients across Herefordshire and Worcestershire has been supported in its continued drive towards running a more energy eﬃcient estate by NVC Lighting. Let’s ﬁnd out more…

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust provides a range of mental health, community, and learning disability services across the region, including community hospitals, minor injury units, sexual health services, and specialist dental services.

Over recent years, the Trust has been actively working on improving energy efficiency across its facilities, backed by financial support from the NHS Energy Efficiency Fund (NEEF), which started in 2018 and has now completed its third phase

This included being awarded 90k from the NHS EEF to upgrade lighting across the whole Trust, in line with the NHS’s goal of becoming Net Zero by 2040.

Putting the band together

After carrying out a rigorous vendor screening process, the Trust contacted Adam Masters from a local electrical wholesaler to execute the lighting supply works Adam in turn reached out to Aaron Chandi, Business Development Manager at NVC Lighting, to support with product selection and delivery from a trusted partner.

Rehan Yunus, Environmental Officer at the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health & Care NHS Trust, said: “It’s vitally important for providers across the NHS to find ways to become more energy efficient This is in line with the overall aim of the NHS to become Net Zero by 2040 It’s equally important that we do this in a way that is cost-effective and supports local businesses.

“We strongly believe that by using more energy efficient lighting such as LED lights and automatic timer lighting, we can make a significant difference in reducing our overall energy consumption ”

He continued: “In line with our Green Plan, we’re progressing towards Net Zero by 2040, and this change is a major step towards a greener and more sustainable

NHS A greener NHS will not only beneﬁt the planet, but also prove beneﬁcial for patients by giving them better quality air to breathe in and more green spaces to relax ”

The project focused on seven older buildings from the Trust’s estate, oﬀering a range of services across mental health, nursing, child development and more

The plan was to move from older light ﬁttings in need of replacement to more modern, energy-eﬃcient lighting solutions from NVC Lighting

Rehan added: “We had issues with the throw of light and colour temperature (the type of light emitted, e g warm white or cool white) These issues made the existing lighting less suitable for our staﬀ and visitors The new lighting also provided a neutral white glow to the spaces, making them appear calmer.

“We also wanted to have a greater degree of precision over how our lighting is used, so newer products which could be controlled with additional switches and dimmable controls were a priority for us

“As well as granting us greater control and adaptability, this also provides us with energy saving and product usage beneﬁts ”

Sites including Tenbury Community Hospital, Warndon Child Development Centre and mental health service buildings (The Knoll and Rose Cottage) all presented unique challenges when it came to selecting the right lighting solutions

A bespoke, people-centric approach was taken in order to ensure that the products specified were fit for purpose and attributed to creating the correct atmosphere at each site, taking into consideration on the ground feedback from staff

The right products, at the right time NVC Lighting has worked with several NHS Trusts and its high quality, low glare product range, alongside its reputation for

quality customer service, made it an ideal partner for the project

Products selected include YALE PRO, which oﬀer UGR<19 low glare and are ideal for use in corridors and high footfall areas Other products included the IP65 and IK10 rated COLUMBUS, PORTLAND bulkheads, as well as WASHINGTON recessed downlights and TEXAS battens.

Aaron Chandi, Business Development Manager at NVC Lighting, said: “The quality of our products and our warranty oﬀering meant we were ideally placed to provide the perfect solutions for the Trust Equally important, however, was speed, agility and transparency when it came to deliverables

“We pride ourselves on building strong relationships based on trust, so we were ready to do what was needed to ensure the right products were in the right place at the right time

“We’re confident that staff across the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health & Care NHS Trust will feel the benefit of NVC Lighting products in their daily activities, while Trust leadership will soon see the energy and cost savings associated with our products ”

MAKE SENSOR OF IT ALL

Modern lighting is smarter, more eﬃcient and more adaptable than ever, thanks in part to intelligent sensing technology PIR sensors, microwave sensors and photocells each play a vital role in intelligent lighting systems

Whether you're looking to cut energy bills, improve convenience or enhance security, understanding these sensor technologies –and where to use them – is key

At Forum Lighting Solutions, we manufacture a large range of sensors to suit diﬀerent purposes. It’s about knowing the right products to use in the right environment – whether that’s a home, garden, warehouse or commercial building

PIR sensors are ideal for residential and low-traffic areas; microwave sensors offer high sensitivity and a broader detection range, whereas photocells monitor natural light levels and adjust artificial lighting accordingly, making them perfect for outdoor lighting, burglar alarms and gate automation

1. PIR sensors: eﬃcient motion detection

PIR sensors detect infrared (IR) radiation emitted naturally by warm objects such as people or animals These sensors contain a pyroelectric element that identiﬁes rapid changes in temperature across its detection zones. If someone walks into view, the sensor triggers a light, alarm or other device.

Key features

● Detects body heat movement only

● Passive technology (doesn’t emit energy)

● Reliable in indoor environments

PIRs are perfect for indoor lighting control in hallways, staircases, toilets and

cupboards They’re also great for security lighting in car parks, building entrances and garden ﬂoodlights. Commercially, they work well in warehouses, oﬃces and stairwells.

2 Microwave sensors: powerful and discreet detection

Unlike PIR sensors, microwave sensors emit high-frequency electromagnetic waves (typically 5 8 GHz) When these waves bounce back with a frequency shift (the Doppler eﬀect), motion is detected –even through thin non-metallic materials like glass or plastic.

These sensors are ideal for high-ceiling or complex layouts such as within warehouses, corridors and underground car parks They’re useful in high-risk areas where false triggering from heat or airﬂow is common, and can be hidden behind panels or ceilings

Key features

● Detects movement through walls or glass

● Greater sensitivity and wider coverage

● Less aﬀected by temperature and airﬂow

3. Photocell sensors: automated dusk-to-dawn control

Photocell sensors (aka dusk-to-dawn sensors) monitor ambient light levels

Steve Kaye from Forum

Lighting Solutions takes a closer look at the vital role sensors play in intelligent lighting systems.

using a light-sensitive diode or resistor. When natural light drops below a set threshold (e g at dusk), the sensor switches connected lights on When daylight returns, it switches them oﬀ

These sensors can be used outdoors on pathways, driveways and garden features In a commercial lighting setting, they’re useful for storefronts, signage and perimeter lights. Photocell sensors also work well for street and security lighting.

Key features

● Light-dependent switching (no motion detection)

● Saves energy by ensuring lights operate only at night

● No manual switching required

Installation tips

There are several things to consider when you’re looking to install a sensor.

Firstly, think about the height and positioning of the sensor: always install at manufacturer-recommended heights You must avoid obstructions – keep PIR and microwave sensors away from furniture, partitions or airﬂow vents

At Forum, we believe it’s important to test and tune By this, we mean adjust the timer, sensitivity and lux settings during commissioning to suit the space.

And IP ratings really do matter, so only use IP44 or higher for outdoor or damp environments Forum's outdoor sensors go all the way up to IP65

In this article the experts at LEDLite explain why PIR and occupancy downlighting can provide a smarter route to illumination.

LIGHTS, MOTION, ACTION!

Wenergy eﬃcient, safe, and intelligent lighting environments, Passive Infrared (PIR) and “occupancy” downlighting stand out as essential solutions

Designed to automatically illuminate spaces only when motion is detected, these fixtures offer significant benefits for both residential and commercial settings And with recent advancements in features like LEDLite’s tri-colour selection and fire-rated construction, they’ve become a must for electricians and contractors.

One of the most signiﬁcant advantages of PIR and occupancy downlights is their ability to reduce energy consumption

These lights activate only when someone enters the room or space, switching oﬀ automatically after a set period of inactivity This ensures lights are never left on unnecessarily, signiﬁcantly cutting down on electricity bills and contributing to a more sustainable environment

This feature is especially useful in areas such as hallways, bathrooms, utility rooms, garages, and oﬃces, where lighting is often left on unintentionally With PIR technology, you not only save money but also extend the life of your bulbs by reducing the number of hours they’re in use

PIR v Occupancy

PIR (Passive Infrared) and occupancy

automated illumination, but they detect presence in diﬀerent ways

PIR lighting works by sensing infrared radiation – essentially the body heat emitted by people or animals – within its ﬁeld of view When a warm object moves across its detection zone, the sensor triggers the light to turn on

In contrast, occupancy lighting can use a combination of technologies, such as ultrasonic sensors that emit sound waves (24 GHz Millimetre Wave Radar) and detect changes in frequency caused by movement, or dual-tech sensors that blend PIR and ultrasonic for greater sensitivity.

This means occupancy sensors can detect even subtle motion, like someone typing or shifting in a seat, making them ideal for areas where people may remain still for extended periods

Convenience, safety and security

The hands-free operation of occupancy lighting adds a layer of convenience that’s hard to overlook. Whether your hands are full or you're entering a dark space, the lights turn on automatically, providing instant illumination and added safety

For commercial spaces, this also means fewer touchpoints, contributing to a more hygienic environment – something that’s increasingly important these days

up areas when motion is detected, they can help prevent accidents in the dark and act as a deterrent to potential intruders

Occupancy lights oﬀer peace-of-mind, especially in less frequently used or darker areas such as stairwells, basements, and outdoor corridors.

More than just a light!

PIR and occupancy downlighting is advancing with features such as LEDLite’s tri-colour technology, allowing users to select between warm white, cool white, and daylight colour temperatures This ﬂexibility makes it easier to match lighting tones to various room types and moods, all with a single product

LEDLite's downlights are also fire-rated, ensuring they meet stringent safety standards Fire-rated fixtures help maintain the fire integrity of ceilings in the event of a fire, making them a necessity in multi-storey buildings or anywhere fire safety compliance is a priority

PIR downlights can also enhance the safety and security of a property By lighting

In summary, PIR and occupancy downlighting offers a smart, efficient, and safe lighting solution for a wide variety of applications. And with features now including tri-colour and fire-rated certified models, users benefit from adaptability, compliance, and aesthetic appeal – all wrapped into one easy-to-install package

LESSONS IN LIGHT

Luceco lighting has recently played a huge part in taking a Salford school from high-cost ﬂuorescence to low-cost, energy-eﬃcient LED lighting.

Working with contractors, Senate Mech, Luceco planned and designed a full lighting redesign for Albion Academy in Salford, replacing the original ﬂuorescent lighting with future-proof LED lighting

Clear beneﬁts for schools

Choosing LED lighting in schools has been shown to have multiple beneﬁts including reducing visual discomfort, fatigue, and headaches, as well as increasing focus and productivity.

Unlike ﬂuorescent lighting, LEDs provide a more uniform distribution of

light, minimising glare on screens which in turn helps prevent eyestrain and makes students more comfortable in the classroom environment

Luceco chose to install a range of suspended and recessed LED lighting throughout the school, including lights from the LuxPanel, Platinum and Elara Bay ranges The ﬂagship LuxPanel Extra uses backlit LED panels mounted to the modules to the back of the panel’s body, allowing direct downward distribution

The direct light means there is no requirement for a Light Guide Plate (LGP), allowing the panel to oﬀer increased performance and balanced light distribution. They are soft glowing panels that gently illuminate the space whilst oﬀering an ideal level of light for working in classroom spaces

We get the lowdown on Luceco’s recent eﬀorts to help a Manchester-based school minimise its energy bills through the use of LED lighting.

Platinum Surface, Platinum Downlight and Elara Bay LEDs were also used in the corridors and communal spaces due to their easy installation and sleek ﬁnish

Saving money and energy

Julie Ward, Site Manager at Albion Academy, said: “Replacing the lighting in the school has made a huge diﬀerence as we’re already saving money and being more energy eﬃcient

“One of our school values is ambition, demanding a successful future for our students and striving to be the best version of ourselves This is a value that we not only share with the people in our building, but also the building itself. Creating a better space for our students will help them achieve their goals ”

Andy Whalley, Luceco Project Manager, added: “Transforming the lighting in Albion Academy from outdated fluorescent tubing to modern LED lighting not only provides a better environment for staff and students, but also makes the school more energy efficient and will save them a lot more money in the long run.

“Using Luceco LEDs, which have been designed for quick and easy installation, means that replacing lighting can be done eﬃciently to minimise disruption whilst delivering the best results ”

KNX-PERTISE UNLOCKED

Theben has recently opened the doors to its new UK training centre and, as we discover in this article, it’s all about giving sparkies the edge in a smarter world.

The Theben Academy officially opened its doors with a launch event at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre (NSBRC) in Swindon The event saw a mix of electricians, integrators, college tutors, and a few curious self-builders joining the Theben team to get a first look at the space, explore the training offer, and see the systems in action.

From live demos to networking over

coﬀee, the day gave attendees a real feel for what the Theben Academy is all about: practical learning, real-world support, and a clear path into smarter, future-ready work

Officially based at the NSBRC, the Academy isn’t simply another showroom or sales space It’s a fully equipped training environment, and officially certified KNX Training Centre, with real hands-on sessions, real systems, and real support.

From sockets to smart systems

Today’s electrical jobs are evolving Clients want more than lighting circuits and a clean looking fuse board, so they’re asking about automation, energy-saving controls, and systems that "just work" with their smart lifestyles Whether you’re on a high-end refurb or a simple new-build, these conversations are happening more often.

That’s why the Theben Academy has been set up It gives electricians the knowledge, the tools, and the practical experience to conﬁdently step into this growing market, without the tech waﬄe or pressure to “just sell more kit ”

“The Academy isn’t about theory for theory’s sake,” says Paul Foulkes, Country Manager at Theben Automation

“It’s about giving electricians what they actually need on-site – practical knowledge, real-world experience, and the conﬁdence to take on smarter jobs and build better businesses ”

Built for the trade, not the textbook What makes the Theben Academy stand out is its accessibility and ﬂexibility Much of the training is available on demand, meaning you don’t have to wait for scheduled dates to get started

Whether you're looking to upskill solo, bring your team in for a session, or arrange something bespoke for your business, Theben can tailor sessions to suit you

Courses are available now across key topics like:

● Lighting and presence control

● Energy-saving strategies and DALI

● Oﬃcial KNX certiﬁcation courses

● Intro to building automation and sensor integration

● CPD-accredited lighting control sessions

● LUXORliving smart home system

These are all delivered by industry experts with years of hands-on experience, not

salespeople or box-shifters

Furthermore, the first KNX Basic Certification Course will launch on November 10th Offered under official KNX Training Centre status, the course allows you to walk away with a globally recognised qualification that can open doors to high-spec projects and bigger contracts

“We’re proud to bring certiﬁed KNX training to the UK market,” says Stephen Staudt from Theben AG, who will be delivering the KNX training for the Academy.

“This isn’t just about running one-oﬀ sessions, it’s about long-term support for electricians as they grow into the smart building space.”

More than just product training

Let’s be honest – some training days are just thinly veiled sales pitches Theben Academy isn’t that Yes, you’ll get hands-on with Theben’s tech, but more importantly, you’ll learn how to design, install and maintain systems that actually meet the needs of modern buildings

Whether it’s LUXORliving for ﬂexible smart home control, presence detectors for energy eﬃciency, or full-blown KNX automation, the Academy gives you the tools to move from standard installations to higher-value, smarter projects

For Mona Mutschler of Theben in Germany, the Academy represents more than just a training facility “It’s about building long-term partnerships with installers,” she explains

“We’re here to share knowledge, support growth, and help electricians at all levels succeed ”

Located inside the NSBRC – a destination for self-builders, architects and trades alike – the Academy sits at the heart of the action. There’s free parking, great transport links, and a proper working setup that lets you learn in an environment that feels more like a project than a classroom

And with on-demand training available now, you don’t have to juggle diaries or travel halfway across the country to make it happen Just get in touch, and the team will work with you to ﬁnd the right format and focus

SMART SWITCH, EASY FIX

We discover how retroﬁt-friendly products like Retrotouch’s latest range of smart switches and sockets can help electricians to eﬀortlessly upgrade existing lighting systems.

Sm a r t l i g h t i n g i s

u n d o u b t e d l y a b u r g e o n i n g

g r o w t h a r e a t h a t o f f e r s

o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r

e l e c t r i c i a n s w a n t i n g t o

g r o w t h e i r b u s i n e s s e s .

The ability to offer smart finishing touches such as advanced voice- and App-operated switches that work seamlessly with the latest smart home lighting systems also gives electricians the chance to enhance customer satisfaction, expand their knowledge and build their professional reputation

Simple retrofit installation

Thankfully, due to recent design developments, it doesn’t require complicated training or additional wiring knowledge to install smart switches

It’s now easier than ever with smart switches simply retrofitted into an existing back box – it’s the same wiring; you’re simply adding more tech with the same install.

Brands like Retrotouch help electricians go beyond functional installs into design-oriented and connected lighting solutions by offering a range of smart switches with simplified installation at their core

Ease of installation was a priority in the design of Retrotouch’s smart switch range – they’re simply installed

using existing wiring with or without a neutral wire – as was sleek looks and attractive finishes

The range is super-stylish with attractive glass finishes and a selection of colour options. The switches add the perfect finishing touch to any smart home, delivering advanced features in one easy-to-fit unit

If you’re an electrician wiring for a Philips Hue lighting system, Retrotouch also offers a Philips Hue smart light switch that is literally ‘stick anywhere’ These are not dependent on a ‘whole home’ smart lighting system but can be used in the kitchen alone if required

The wireless, stick-anywhere, battery-free switches can control up to 50 Philips Hue lights and lamps simultaneously They ensure that the Philips Hue lighting system is always-on and smart, working seamlessly from the switch, via motion, voice and App controls.

Giving off a new Aura

For installers whose clients are looking for a straightforward aesthetic update rather than a ‘smart’ solution, Retrotouch has recently launched the designer-look Aura range

Aura is a new range of light switches, sockets and dimmers that make it easy

for electricians, housebuilders and renovators to add a high-end ﬁnish to any new lighting scheme, or easily update and upgrade an existing one.

The collection comprises a choice of attractive ‘clip on’ milled aluminium front panels that quickly and easily attach to the Retrotouch Aura base module, creating stunning finishes for design-conscious customers

Designer looks

The key benefits of the new range are its modularity, quality materials and finish. Once installed, customers can easily change the covers with no need to wire in new sockets to change the look Installation is a doddle: simply install the base at first-fix and clip on the face plates at second-fix

The designer-look front panels currently come in four finishes: Brushed Nickel, Brushed Brass, Brushed Bronze and Matt Black

Further colours and finishes are in development and will ensure that the clip-on panels stay on-trend as interior design styles and requirements change over time

LESS IS MORE

IFor electricians, it s increasingly a way to save time on-site, reduce installation complexity and offer clients a more efficient solution With the latest wireless and intelligent lighting systems, contractors are finding that smart can actually mean simpler.

Traditional lighting setups, particularly those using DALI or manual switching, often require additional cabling, from switch drops to control wiring, which can be time-consuming and expensive to install, especially on retroﬁt projects

In contrast, wireless smart lighting systems like those oﬀered by Trojan Lighting Solutions, eliminate much of this complexity

Faster, cleaner installations

Switches can be mounted straight onto the wall without cabling, and luminaires communicate wirelessly through mesh networks or Bluetooth On modular or prefab sites especially, this approach dramatically cuts labour time and disruption

ﬁttings were powered, paired, and the switches just screwed to the wall It made the install fast and clean

There are time savings in commissioning too With smart-ready luminaires, lighting levels and control proﬁles can be pre-set or adjusted on-site via an App, so there's no need for manual reprogramming or dimmer modules

Emergency lighting is simpler as well Trojan’s wireless-ready emergency ﬁttings use LiFePO₄ battery technology with self-test options, removing the need for control cabling back to a central point, making it compliant and easy to maintain

Smart systems also reduce the time contractors spend on fault-ﬁnding and callouts. Because the system can report faults remotely there’s no need for multiple site visits

Electricians can go in once, with the right part, and get the job done Instead of three visits to check, diagnose and ﬁx, you can do it in one!

rren Dolan, Technical Manager

Trojan, looks into the reasons y smart lighting reduces ing and costs for installers.

ROI calculator – easy demonstration of cost savings

Beyond installation and maintenance, smart lighting also helps contractors win more work Trojan oﬀers a free ROI calculator that electricians can use to demonstrate the cost savings of an upgrade to their clients.

Ultimately, smart lighting is proving that intelligent doesn’t have to mean complicated. For electrical professionals, it means faster installs, fewer cables, easier maintenance and a more persuasive pitch when talking to clients about energy-eﬃcient upgrades

With tools like pre-commissioned ﬁttings, remote diagnostics and ROI calculators at their disposal, electricians are better placed than ever to deliver systems that are as practical as they are advanced.

STEALING THE SCENE

It was lights, camera, action (or lights, lights, lights) for the ROBUS team as it recently undertook a challenging DALI lighting retroﬁt for the Slovak Republic’s largest TV broadcaster. Here we discover how this has already led to a 55% reduction in energy costs.

When TV JOJ in Bratislava required a wide-scale lighting retroﬁt, ROBUS was ready to deliver The building in question was the production area for the largest TV broadcaster in the Slovak Republic.

What’s particularly interesting about a TV studio from a lighting design perspective is that it’s a space where people are highly reliant on visual performance, making optimal lighting with excellent colour-rendering essential Beyond this, there were other practical factors to consider for the project, such as energy savings, integrated lighting control, and emergency lighting systems.

Old lighting system out, new energy-efficient office in The client had found themselves in a common situation – stuck with an old lighting system that wasn’t just outdated, but also inefficient This led to high

“All

maintenance costs, excessive glare, and even raised some safety concerns As a result, the team at TV JOJ needed a brighter, more cost-eﬀective solution

To take on the challenge, ROBUS teamed up with a long-time partnering wholesaler in the region and BKP ELEKTRO, the contractor who recommended ROBUS as a brand that’s known for oﬀering great quality at a fair price

The plan of attack

ROBUS delivered a DALI-controlled lighting system that not only boosted performance and eﬃciency but, when combined with the HORIZON LED batten, provided the sleek, modern aesthetic the client was after

The following product list was recommended, based on the various areas in the building that required upgraded lighting:

● 85 HORIZON UGR<19 with DALI

staﬀ have greatly appreciated the new lighting, and particularly its low glare. We’ve received feedback from the owners, saying that many employees were inquiring about the brand, having never encountered such a combination of minimal glare and abundant illumination.”

Miroslav

Drahos, TV JOJ Project Manager

● 36 HORIZON without DALI (for the production areas)

● 126 HORIZON CCT3

● 24 SWISS Emergency Lights

Reducing glare in oﬃce environments

TV JOJ prioritised the installation of UGR lighting in its oﬃces, aligning with ROBUS’ recommendation for task-oriented spaces

Glare is a notorious issue in work and school environments, resulting in visual fatigue, headaches, reduced productivity, light sensitivity and even weakening of vision over time

This is why the Uniﬁed Glare Rating (UGR) is used by lighting designers as an objective measure of glare, enabling the production of improved products and lighting designs

ROBUS oﬀers a range of low-glare products that are perfectly suited to this application

For TV JOJ, the company installed the stylish (and therefore, always TV-ready) HORIZON LED batten, designed to provide exceptionally low UGR<19 glare, which was immediately noticeable in the building’s corridors In areas requiring high levels of illumination, the CCT3 version was installed instead

ICEL-certiﬁed emergency lighting

Updated emergency lighting was also required as part of the project, so as to

meet modern safety standards ROBUS recommended the SWISS Exit Blade, which is now ICEL-certified This product provides a viewing distance of up to 26 m, offers five alternative mounting methods and features LIFEPO4 battery technology with a three-hour emergency discharge

Upgrading to DALI with Customised Conversions

A conversion transforms a standard light ﬁtting by modifying it for improved functionality

ROBUS’s Customised Conversion Department can do this for many applications, such as integrating a battery pack for emergency use, installing a microwave sensor for increased energy eﬃciency, or even providing customisations such as adding extra cable lengths, connectors, and pre-wiring

The team was able to customise many of the HORIZON ﬁttings to Digital

Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI), enhancing cost-effectiveness and control efficiency DALI simplifies the process of measuring and tracking the energy consumption of each light, reducing the time required for maintenance and replacement while allowing for precise control over each fixture

Remarkable reduction in costs

The result of this comprehensive project was a bespoke, energy-eﬃcient lighting solution for TV JOJ – engineered to minimise glare and provide customisable settings tailored to the varied needs of the studio’s departments.

Staﬀ noticed a clear improvement in their day-to-day work, especially appreciating the low-glare environment

With an impressive 55% energy saving achieved through the redesign, it’s safe to say: that’s a wrap!

Interested in working with ROBUS’

Customised Conversions Department?

Whether you simply want to chat through the services on offer or kick-start a lighting project, the team would be happy to hear from you

DIMMING THE DOUBT

Josh Hammerton, Founder of Enkin, explains why seeking out seamless control and smart innovation can help build conﬁdence in your chosen dimming solutions.

At Enkin we believe lighting should work beautifully, for both the homeowner and the electrician carrying out the installation

Before we began designing our dimmers we listened to feedback from the people who matter most – electricians who understand the challenges of installation and homeowners who live with the results every day.

We use this collaborative approach for every product we design – from our Intelligent Rotary dimmers to our Smart In-Line modules – resulting in lighting solutions that are quick to install, safe to use and continuously reliable

From smooth dimming to ambience control

As we all know, lighting isn’t just about brightness, it’s about atmosphere, function, and experience

Our Intelligent Rotary PDM150 and PDM400 dimmers are designed to deliver seamless, ﬂicker-free brightness control –whether you’re setting the mood in a

living room or adjusting for optimal task lighting in a kitchen

Enkin dimmer modules offer a smooth experience, helping to make fine-tuning an easy and precise process With compatibility across a wide range of LED fittings, our dimmers eliminate common headaches for electricians who are all too familiar with the dreaded flickering and buzzing.

Decorative options with our In-Line dimming module

In the modern homes of today we appreciate aesthetics matter just as much as performance This is why we designed our In-Line IDM250 dimming module, to give designers and homeowners more decorative options using a discreet, compact solution that allows any retractive switches to function as a dimmer.

This innovative technology allows electricians to maintain the visual beauty of a space using decorative switches, while delivering full functionality of modern dimming technology behind the scenes

Stepping into the future with Smart In-Line dimming

With smart homes becoming more mainstream, we know lighting control is evolving beyond the wall switch, so that’s where our ﬁrst Smart In-Line module ZDM150 comes into the equation

This dimmer has all the qualities of our standard dimmers – smooth control, ﬂicker-free operation and compatibility with retractive switches – but it lets you control lighting via a smartphone (iOS/Android) using smart connectivity through Zigbee

Once connected to a Zigbee-enabled hub, the ZDM150 dimmer transforms into a lighting controller where you can dim, switch on/oﬀ and set ambient moods across multiple rooms via voice control

Other features include timing and scheduling functions to automate energy savings or daily routines and remote control through compatible Apps when away from home.

This smart dimmer supports retractive and two-way retractive switches for seamless smart/manual control It also allows for multiway dimming of up to 20 switches

Helping the electrician

Our lighting solutions are designed to solve common annoyances of ﬂickering and buzzing. They work straight out of the box and are both quick and easy to install.

Whether retroﬁtting older properties or working on new builds, these dimmers bring reliability, ease of use, and safety

We test across a wide range of LED drivers and ﬁxtures to ensure a faultless performance every time

A dimmer product that works!

From classic rotary dimmers to fully integrated smart solutions, our mission is simple: deliver lighting controls that work – products that are reliable, easy to install, stylish and safe

GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT ENKIN’S RANGE OF DIMMING SOLUTIONS BY VISITING:

IT TAKES TWO

In this article we learn more about how you can elevate your customers’ smart lighting experience by integrating Shelly devices with Homey.

One of the beauties of using Shelly devices is that they are designed to work with what you already have These compact, Wi-Fi-enabled modules ﬁt behind switches and sockets, or inside pattress boxes to deliver full remote control, automation, and energy monitoring using familiar and existing wiring infrastructure

Shelly’s key strengths include:

● Local and cloud-based control options,

● Compatibility with MQTT, REST APIs, and scripts,

● Seamless integration with 2 major smart platforms,

● Options for relays, power monitoring, sensors, dimme more

Whether you're automating lig managing heating, monitoring usage, or controlling appliance oﬀers ﬂexibility at a fraction of of closed systems.

Homey: the universal smart h For those who want to take functionality to another level, H built for interoperability Unlike platforms that focus on their ow devices, Homey embraces variety – supporting Wi-Fi,

Zigbee, Z-Wave, Bluetooth, 433 MHz, and Infrared all in one device It lets you control, automate, and monitor smart devices from over 1,800 brands, all from a single App or dashboard.

With Homey, you can:

● Create advanced automations (Flows & Advanced Flows) through intuitive, drag and drop logic,

● Integrate 16,000+ devices with ease,

● Track real-time and historical energy usage,

● Combine voice control, geolocation, time-based triggers, and sensors in your automations,

● Ensure fast, secure device management and reliable local control because the product operates independently.

It’s designed for people who want total control over their smart home – without the added pressure that can come from brand ‘lock-in’

Why is it that Shelly and Homey will

work so well together?

Shelly is natively supported in Homey via oﬃcial and third-party Apps, allowing users to quickly discover, connect, and automate their devices

This integration unlocks seamless control and complex logic that would otherwise require advanced programming through platforms like Home Assistant

By integrating Shelly with Homey, you can:

● Control Shelly switches, sensors, and monitors directly from the Homey App,

● Create Flows that tie Shelly devices into broader automations (e.g. presence, weather, voice commands),

● Combine Shelly with devices from other ecosystems like Philips Hue, Yale, Sonos, or Daikin,

● Use Homey dashboards or voice assistants to command everything in one place

Real-world scenarios with Shelly + Homey

While Shelly devices are powerful on their own, integrating them with Homey unlocks a deeper level of automation, coordination, and insight across your residential or commercial installation

Here’s how Homey elevates what Shelly can do:

Cross-brand automation

Use Shelly relays to control appliances only when your Philips Hue lights are off or when your Netatmo weather station detects rain Homey enables smart routines that combine Shelly with entirely different ecosystems

Multi-sensor logic

Build complex automations using multiple input types: for example, turn on a fan (via Shelly) only if the temperature > 25°C and humidity > 60%, and someone is home

Presence detection

internet goes down, ensuring your Shelly devices still work within a resilient, connected ecosystem.

Homey combines phone geolocation, motion sensors, and smart door locks to reliably detect presence With that information, it can automatically deactivate Shelly-powered devices when everyone leaves, or start scenes when someone returns

Unified dashboard and monitoring

Use Homey’s dashboard to view energy usage from Shelly energy metering devices, alongside temperature, occupancy, and device states from other brands, offering complete context and control from one App

Offline smartness

With Homey Pro, many Flows and automations run locally, even if your

The perfect partnership

Shelly offers one of the most versatile, reliable, and open smart device ecosystems on the market, perfect for anyone looking to provide advanced automation services at a fraction of the cost of traditional smart systems

With support for Wi-Fi, local control, scripting, and open APIs, Shelly devices are powerful building blocks for smart residential and commercial installations.

When combined with Homey, that power scales even further Homey brings everything together, enabling Shelly devices to interact seamlessly with a wide range of brands, sensors, and systems across your home or office

It adds an intuitive interface, advanced automation logic, and the ability to create unified routines that span lighting, climate, security, and energy management.

Together, Shelly and Homey deliver a smarter, more connected experience

One that’s entirely customisable, endlessly scalable, and built to work the way you want

Whether you’re just starting out or building a complex smart environment, this combination empowers you with control, coordination, and complete freedom of choice.

GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT HOMEY AND THE SHELLY RANGE OF DEVICES, AVAILABLE FROM NETXL, BY SCANNING THE QR CODE OR VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBQ031

I PREDICT A RIoT

Alighting? For high-end clients, convenience is everything –especially when it comes to c o n t r o l l i n g d i f f e r e n t l i g h t i n g

c i r c u i t s T h a t ’s w h e r e t h e

R I oT s y s t e m c o m e s i n t o i t s o w n , b y

t o g o w a y b e y o n d t h e b o u n d a r i e s o f

b a s i c w i r e l e s s c o n t r o l

How does it work?

The RIoT system is long range, 4 chan wireless switching solution, ideal for outdoor lighting control. Whether it’s garden lights, water features, or driveway illuminati the system gives y and your clients

device App For added convenience it now also includes automatic timer events

This wireless switching system can operate up to four lighting circuits from any of the standard RF control types Circuits can also be set up to autonomously operate based on easily programmable event timers, which include Dawn, Dusk and speciﬁc times Naturally, diﬀerent garden will require various etups Once the oT system is paired to a local Wi-Fi connection, not only can you operate this from anywhere via Wi-Fi on a smart e, you can also ramme the ordinates which al time clock

For installers who demand more, the RIoT System delivers powerful wireless switching It gives electricians the ﬂexibility, control, and automation that modern customers expect – all in one powerful system

While ideal for outdoor lighting and landscaping, the system is also perfect for a wide range of applications, including gate and door motors, water pumps, industrial automation, and more

From small gardens to large estates, RF Solutions can help installers deliver smart,

u’re looking for a tion that can deliver rter outdoor lighting automated control, RiOT system could be the answer to your prayers. In this article the team at RF Solutions provides more details.

professional results with robust products and expert technical support – no matter the size of the project

With over 30 years of RF expertise, the brand is a trusted UK manufacturer, delivering reliable, high performance and easy to install remote control systems, RF modules, and IOT solutions – perfect for electricians and their customers!

Recently added to PE’s growing YouTube channel, Kyle Gamble of KG Electrical Contractors in St Albans has had the opportunity to put the RIoT system through its pace on some real-life applications But what will he think about this innovative wireless switching solution and its wide range of control options? WATCH KYLE’S VIDEO REVIEW AT:

YOUR WISH IS GRANTON

When Granton Gasholder required a new, dynamic design to light new life into the Scottishbased landmark, Thorn Lighting was chosen to deliver the goods. Here we get more details about a simply illuminating project.

Alandmark of Edinburgh's northern skyline since 1901, the Granton Gasholder has been reimagined as a striking public space thanks to a £20 million restoration and regeneration project

Now at the heart of Granton Gasholder Park, this 165-foot-tall, listed structure has been transformed from an industrial relic into a vibrant community focal point – complete with dynamic lighting designed and delivered by Thorn Lighting.

Working closely with landscape architects Optimised Environments (OPEN) and consultancy Tetra Tech, Thorn was tasked with creating a lighting scheme that would enhance the visual impact of the restored gasholder, while respecting its historic character and listed status

The result is a bold yet sensitive lighting design that celebrates the structure's unique industrial beauty, provides safe and welcoming navigation through the park, and oﬀers programmable ﬂexibility to support community events and public art

A dynamic urban regeneration

Granton Gasholder Park forms part of the wider £1 3 billion regeneration of the

Granton Waterfront area Once a key part of Edinburgh's gas infrastructure, the gasholder sat unused for decades.

The site has been transformed into a space for play, relaxation, and reﬂection following extensive refurbishment – including the careful preservation of 100,000 rivets and 26 towering columns Visitors can explore walking trails, three play areas, and a central sculpture of a breaching humpback whale, a nod to nearby Firth of Forth wildlife.

Lighting played a vital role in the transformation, helping to redefine the gasholder's identity and make the space welcoming after dark

The lighting brief required complete control over colour and timing, a low-profile installation respectful of the structure's heritage, and glare-free, visually comfortable illumination for all users.

Tailored lighting for a historic structure Thorn speciﬁed a trio of architectural lighting solutions to bring the design vision to life

Eroa in-ground luminaires were chosen to illuminate the gasholder's Corten lettering that says ‘GASHOLDER1’ With their 3000K output and available in

multiple lengths, Eroa provides a powerful, even wash of light capable of reaching heights beyond 12 metres.

The option for internal anti-glare louvres and glare-control ﬁlms made it ideal for the park's urban setting –balancing drama with visual comfort

Contrast RGBW ﬂoodlights, mounted strategically on the gasholder itself and controlled via a DMX system, add depth and versatility to the structure

With a consistent modern design and wide choice of beam angles, Contrast units allow precise highlighting of structural details while enabling a multitude of colour-changing scenes for events and seasonal displays

Concealing cables and achieving seamless integration with the structure required careful coordination, but the results are visually impressive and technically robust

To enhance the user experience throughout the park, Aerie column luminaires were installed along key pathways Their soft, unobtrusive glow delivers high visual comfort and safety, helping to reduce energy use

Aerie is discreet and adaptable, designed for demanding urban environments, which suits the site's coastal location

Community-driven design

Tetra Tech's Chris Dunbar, Senior Project Manager for the scheme, praised the partnership with Thorn Lighting

He said: "Working with the Thorn team has been fantastic. We were well looked after from start to ﬁnish – not just by Derick Ramsay but also by the technical team behind the scenes and David Harris, who supported with the commissioning They all adapted to some tricky timelines and changes in the programme and still delivered an exceptional result

“I can say, not just from myself but from the immediate community and stakeholders, it's been exceptionally well received and local feedback has been overwhelmingly positive

“The vibrant illumination has given one of Edinburgh's most recognisable landmarks a whole new lease of life "

The project's success is evident not just in the striking visual result, but in its

reception The park has quickly become a popular space for residents and visitors alike, with the illuminated gasholder now acting as a beacon after dark and a backdrop for a growing calendar of community activities.

Shaping the future with light

Granton Gasholder Park shows how thoughtful lighting can support urban regeneration and connect communities to their local heritage – from an unused industrial site to a celebrated gathering space

The lighting scheme delivered by Thorn enhances this identity, combining dynamic control with energy eﬃciency and architectural elegance

All LED Altitude raises the bar in commercial lighting

p p j place greater demands on lighting from energy performance and safety to visual comfort and adaptability All LED’s Altitude range stands out as a professional solution that meets the brief Engineered for performance and practicality, these LED panels deliver long-term value across a wide range of applications, from oﬃces and classrooms to healthcare and retail spaces

Every panel in the Altitude range shares a carefully considered foundation that sets the standard for commercial lighting At the core is a TP(a) flame-retardant opal diffuser, meeting strict fire safety regulations, while UV-stable materials ensure the fittings retain their crisp white finish without discolouration over time

A UGR <19 rating and ﬂicker-free operation provide comfortable, glare-free illumination supporting compliance with workplace lighting standards and improving user wellbeing in high-demand environments

The panels are designed to integrate seamlessly into building management systems, with both DALI and 0-10 V dimming options available All models are also compatible with plug-and-play emergency packs, providing an easy route to full emergency lighting compliance g

For contractors, this means simpliﬁed installation, reduced time on-site, and greater ﬂexibility when responding to changing project requirements.

At the heart of the range is the Altitude 600x600 panel a 32 W solution that is perfectly suited to standard grid ceiling systems It is available in two variants to meet diﬀering project needs.

For jobs where specification certainty is key, the fixed-output model offers a choice of 4000K or 6000K colour temperatures, providing either a cool white or a bright daylight output

Alternatively, the CCT-selectable version offers 3000K, 4000K, and 6500K colour temperatures in a single unit, making it a go-to choice for installers seeking flexibility and simplified stock management

This built-in adjustability allows lighting tone to be tailored at the point of installation or easily adjusted later to suit the changing use of a space

Both models feature a back-lit LED array for balanced light distribution and arrive pre-wired with an LED driver and DC connector ensuring a smooth, fast-ﬁt install for time-conscious professionals

When a ceiling layout calls for a longer form factor, the Altitude CCT 1200x300 panel delivers This 32 W solution extends the same core performance into a streamlined proﬁle that is ideal for corridors, classrooms, and

open-plan interiors. With the same selectable CCT options and glare control features, it oﬀers the same visual comfort and compliance in a design better suited to narrow or directional lighting schemes

The rigid construction, finished in RAL9003 white, ensures a secure fit with no sagging or flex a detail appreciated by installers aiming for clean, consistent ceiling lines

For larger commercial interiors or areas requiring broader light coverage, the Altitude CCT 1200x600 panel steps up with 40 W of output power

Despite its larger size, this panel retains the same installer beneﬁts and visual performance found across the Altitude family from CCT adjustability and ﬂicker-free output to emergency lighting compatibility and a pre-wired, plug-and-play format

This model is particularly well suited to high-traffic environments such as open-plan offices, retail floors, or education hubs where powerful yet glare-controlled lighting is essential

BROWSE THE ALL LED ALTITUDE PANEL RANGE BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBQ035

OVIA LIGHTING

VOLTAGE DRIVER

Get ready for a game-changer – the VEGAS DUAL VOLTAGE DRIVER has landed, and it’s exclusive to ROBUS. Designed to make life easier for electricians and wholesalers, this clever driver delivers both 12 and 24 V from a single unit just ﬂick the switch to suit the project Available in 20, 40 and 60 W variants, it’s a serious stock saver and ideal for small to medium indoor LED strip installations With surface mounting and two push terminals for fast, hassle-free installs, it pairs perfectly with VEGAS and VEGAS COB strip Why carry two drivers when one does it all?

New & Improved Evo Orb LED Bulkhead

Ovia’s expanding Utility range of luminaires now includes the new, improved Evo Orb LED bulkhead. Designed to adapt to any environment, it delivers flexibility, longevity, and energy efficiency in one compact unit. Distinguished by its sleek 78 mm depth, the Evo Orb combines a contemporary design with robust engineering With an IK08 impact rating and IP65 ingress protection, it offers exceptional resistance to dust, water, and mechanical impact – making it ideal for demanding environments

Offering an efficacy of 120 lm/W, the Evo Orb features power-selectable outputs of 10, 13, or 15 W, and CCT selectable options of 3000K, 4000K, or 6000K, providing customisable lighting solutions to suit a wide range of applications It is available in four versions – standard, microwave, emergency and microwave & emergency – ensuring both energy efficiency and full compliance with the BS 5266-1 emergency lighting standards It comes with a five-year warranty

Knightsbridge’s modular LED batten achieves more with less

The BATM range of single colour and tri-CCT, quad-wattage modular LED battens from Knightsbridge is versatile, eﬃcient and easy to install

Knightsbridge uses an advanced modular design t t id of lighting need reducing stock suppliers and in

The BATM’s easy conversion microwave, or a using plug-andadaptability ens customised quic without the nee components or complex processes

It is also an innovative replacement for the BATS LED battens, delivering the same reliable performance with enhanced versatility.

BESA box compatibility and a hinged gear tray further enhance convenience, ensuring a retroﬁt-friendly installation that saves both time and eﬀort

With an eﬃciency of up to 140 lumens tt th BATM d

adjustable so that the detection area, hold time, and lux level can all be optimised for energy eﬃciency and user convenience

including an emergency kit and a microwave sensor

Installation is quick and straightforward thanks to push-ﬁt terminals, loop-in/loop-out wiring, rear and end 20 mm conduit entries, and standard 600 mm ﬁxing centres

The emergency kit features a three-hour lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, ensuring reliable emergency lighting operation for maintained and non-maintained use

The microwave sensor is fully

Operating at 230 V with n IP20 rating, the BATM entry batten offers a 4000K colour temperature and is available in wattage options of 10, 20, 32, 36, 43, W

he BATMCW4, 5 000K, 4000K and quad-wattage 7 W and 49 W, odel

years for BATM BATMCW4, 5 and 6 formance and Knightsbridge’s commitment to delivering lighting products that meet the highest standards of innovation and quality.

Helping to make companies a brighter and safer place

From advanced LED technologies to fully certiﬁed emergency lighting, the Kempston Lighting Solutions product range is carefully curated to meet the demanding requirements of modern facilities

Whether it's ensuring visibility in complex production environments, improving safety, or reducing long-term energy costs, Kempston Lighting Solutions provides products that are fit for purpose and built to last

In-house experts enable the brand to offer one of the most robust and diverse lighting solution portfolios in the UK, covering everything from industrial floodlights and high-bay luminaires to emergency lighting.

This continually evolving offering runs in line with the latest technological developments, helping customers to futureproof their sites while meeting rigorous compliance standards

The dedicated Lighting team brings deep technical knowledge and project insight, working closely with engineers, site managers, procurement teams, and contractors to recommend systems that are not only compliant but also optimised for your specific application

Every lighting environment presents its own set of challenges, be it heat,

humidity, vibration, exposure to corrosive substances, or strict ATEX/IECEx requirements

Kempston Lighting Solutions aims to help customers navigate these complexities, offering tailored guidance on everything from product selection and specification to rollout and replacement strategies

Sustainability is also central to the offering, with an understanding that businesses face growing pressure to reduce their environmental impact By helping clients transition to modern, energy-efficient lighting systems, often incorporating smart controls, motion detection, and daylight harvesting, it’s easier to cut consumption, reduce costs, and improve ESG performance without compromising output or compliance

Whether you’re upgrading legacy infrastructure, planning a new build, or managing a large-scale replacement programme, Kempston Lighting Solutions has the experience, stock, and supplier network to support your goals, oﬀering rapid access to products, competitive pricing, and advice rooted in real-world application

BROWSE THE FULL KEMPSTON LIGHTING SOLUTIONS OFFERING AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBQ039

Briticent ClikConnect technology sets new standards for site lighting

Until now, the cost of ownership and repair has led many lighting fixtures to be discarded after use ClikConnect changes that by allowing emergency packs and microwave sensors to be clipped directly into the fitting with no extra wiring required

Whether you’re adding or upgrading emergency backup or motion-sensing functionality, it’s as simple as clicking the modules into place, saving you both time and expensive installation costs With Briticent’s ClikConnect technology site lighting has never been more efficie

Available in 2FT and 5FT options, the to 160 lm/W and offer four switchable p three selectable colour temperatures (4 6500K). This gives you the flexibility to and colour, making them easy to scale f ith diff t i t E h fitti

becomes remarkably straightforward through thoughtful engineering

Unique 90° lock-in clips stay clear while you work, while detachable 4-way terminal blocks rotate 180° to accommodate any cable entry point Pre-drilled gland holes (3x20 mm on 2FT, 11x20 mm on 5FT) eliminate additional drilling, and push-fit connectors ensure truly tool-free installation from start to finish

FType downlights are designed with contractors, for contractors

Combining end-user demand for style and value with quick, easy ﬁtting and ‘no-return’ reliability, the FType downlight range from Luceco is a ﬁrm favourite with both professional installers and customers

And with the introduction of the new FType Elite, developed in collaboration with contractors, there’ oﬀer

When selecting downlight, there a considerations – f aesthetics, ease o installation and re to safety and eﬃc

The FType rang including FType Ultra, FType Mk2, FType Essence, Ftype Spot (non ﬁre-rated) and now FType Elite –provide simple options whilst delivering a greater choice Th are no complex decisions to be made since multiple beneﬁts are packed into each lighting model W

The range also includes three ﬁtting styles –regressed, ﬂat, and adjustable – making it easy to adapt the light to suit the space, whilst e bezel options look, allowing for a tch with both new g colour schemes ped in collaboration ntractors through cused feedback essions, the latest elease – the FType lite – is packed with practical features designed to make installation quicker, safer, and more able

core is the NEL/NEL rminals and ClipFit g installers full, ss for wiring Once connected, cables are secured with a simple push and close action, removing the need for ﬁddly adjustments and helping ensure a solid connection every time

To add an extra layer of safety, the QuickView Cable Window allows installers to check cable positioning before ﬁtting the downlight back into the ceiling, reducing the risk of dislodged wires and making compliance checks straightforward

The 500 V insulation resistance rating means quicker testing on-site, saving time without compromising quality Like the wider FType range, the Elite has been rigorously tested to meet and exceed standards for fire safety, acoustics, air tightness, and building regulations.

THE KIT THAT SOLAR INSTALLERS ASKED FOR

Following the launch of a brand new kit for solar installers – the KTSTK6 – the team at Klein

Tools give some insight into the kit’s development and explain what makes it unique from others.

In the fast-evolving world of solar installation, one thing remains constant: professionals need tools that work as hard as they do

That’s why Klein Tools has teamed up with leading voices in the industry to launch the Solar Tool Kit, a purpose-built solution designed in collaboration with solar installers.

This isn’t just another toolkit It’s the result of listening, learning, and co-creating with experts who know the job inside out, including Mark Allison from Power Sonic Electrical, a respected ﬁgure in the renewables sector

Klein Tools is proud to support a new training academy, A121 Training, led by Mark Allison, by donating kits to equip trainees with the tools they need to succeed

A121 Training offers hands-on learning that reflects real jobsite conditions, equipping newcomers and professionals with the tools, knowledge and confidence to succeed

EAL accredited training equips participants to design, install and commission solar systems to industry standards. Courses are led by sector-leading installers and include hands-on learning through real-world roof installations

The programme covers various roof types and includes practical experience with multiple inverter brands and battery systems, building knowledge of the technologies driving the future of solar

Starting this October, A121 Training will

Mark’s insights helped shape a kit that tackles real-world challenges, prioritising safety, eﬃciency, and long-term value

What makes the KTSTK6 diﬀerent?

The KTSTK6 is built around the things that matter most to solar professionals:

Designed with installers, not just for them

We didn’t just guess what installers might need, we asked them The kit is built with tools you’ll actually use No filler, no fluff, just high-performance tools that earn their place in your bag – from MC4 connector spanners to precision wire strippers

Safety at height comes ﬁrst

Safety isn’t negotiable for solar installers, especially when working at height The KTSTK6 includes an ANSI/ISEA 121 2023 tested shock-absorbing tool lanyard to prevent dropped tools and protect installers and others below.

Unlike bulky hard cases that are awkward and hazardous on ladders or rooftops, the KTSTK6 uses a compact, water-resistant dual compartment zip pouch that stands upright for easy access, making it safer and more practical for rooftop work

Built to last

Quality is non-negotiable when your tools are in daily use Whether you're cutting cable, crimping connectors, or stripping wires, these tools are engineered to deliver consistent results day in, day out

If you’re installing or maintaining solar panels, the KTSTK6 delivers more than just tools, it delivers conﬁdence From safety at height to long-term durability, this kit reﬂects what matters most to installers: precision and performance

TEST. SYNC. REPORT.

Michał Cichoń of Sonel S.A. introduces MeasureEﬀect – a platform that standardises measurement processes, automates reporting, and facilitates team collaboration for those who want to measure faster and more accurately.

Sonel MeasureEﬀect is a measurement platform that creates an integrated work environment for professionals performing tests in energy, industrial, commercial, or residential facilities using selected Sonel devices

It is designed for both small electrical service companies and large industrial organisations, ensuring full control over data, streamlining information ﬂow, and increasing measurement eﬃciency

Communication between the measuring device and the cloud – in real-time or asynchronously – plays a key role. As a result, the user can manage the entire process: from creating measurement structures (facilities), deﬁning procedures and carrying out measurements, to data analysis and reporting

Integration of meters with cloud software

The core of the system is Sonel meters, which can synchronise data directly with the server through an internet connection. Users can:

● download pre-conﬁgured structures and measurement procedures,

● upload measurement results directly into predeﬁned structures, ● ﬂexibly modify or expand measurement structures on site – for example, if installations are relocated or changed.

The second component of the MeasureEﬀect platform is a mobile application, which supports users in the ﬁeld This enables remote control of measuring devices, settings adjustment, memory management, as well as adding notes and photos to measurements Collected data is synchronised with the cloud in real time or once network access is restored.

The third element, serving as the central management hub, is a web application accessible through any

browser It allows users to deﬁne object hierarchies (e g company → distribution board → circuit), conﬁgure procedures, manage teams, analyse data, and generate documentation.

Thanks to a uniﬁed database, all information is always up-to-date and accessible to authorised users, regardless of their location

MeasureEﬀect also allows for the creation of dedicated technical asset databases such as photovoltaic panels, miniature circuit breakers, fuses, and RCDs. Maintaining such a resource database allows for evaluation and diagnostics of installation components during later testing

Eﬃcient planning, execution, archiving, and reporting

Users of MeasureEﬀect can create their own measurement procedures tailored to speciﬁc tasks or use ready-made templates. Each procedure consists of several sequential steps, which can be edited, reordered, removed, or added

Once all measurements are completed, the results are automatically saved in the speciﬁed location within the object structure

Thanks to synchronisation and data sharing, ﬁeld workers can see what others are doing Additionally, managers can monitor progress and generate ﬁnal

documentation after team tasks are completed, with reports that can be customised and exported as a PDF

Flexible subscription plans

The MeasureEﬀect platform is available in two subscription plans: a) Starter (free for all users) and b) Pro, tailored to the needs of both individual users and distributed teams.

For larger organisations, we oﬀer a customised Enterprise package with extended features, ERP system integration, advanced analytics, and an ‘on-premise’ option – fully autonomous and running within the client’s own IT infrastructure

Consistent interface across all devices

The entire system – meters, the mobile App and the web App –uses a uniﬁed and visually consistent interface This allows users to work in a familiar layout, regardless of the device, using the same icons, labels, and logic. This standard interface minimises training time and simpliﬁes onboarding of new team members.

In addition, meters integrated with MeasureEffect are compatible with a unified QR code system, enabling quick device identification and execution of saved procedures

Getting started is a simple process Log in to the Sonel website and activate the MeasureEﬀect service via the Customer Panel Step-by-step instructions are included in the system’s user manual

WIN SOME FAN FARE WITH DOMUS!

Get blown away this month as Domus

Ventilation has four of its latest fans (2 x DBF100 100 mm (4”) and 2 x DKF150 150 mm (6”)) to give away to PE readers.

Domus Ventilation axial fans are designed for high performance and energy eﬃciency, ensuring compliance with Building Regulations Part F Ventilation.

The DBF100 provides extract volume rates up to 18 6 l/s, with the larger DKF150 achieving up 48 8 l/s

Even with these high extraction rates, the new fans operate with a low Speciﬁc Fan Power (SFP), down to 0 38 W/l/s, saving energy and reducing operating costs They’re also quiet in operation, down to 34 dB(A)

To suit diﬀerent requirements and budgets, the fans are available in versions with timer control, and combined humidistat and timer control to identify and react to a signiﬁcant change in humidity. The DBF100 is also available with a pull cord control.

As with all Domus Ventilation products, ease of installation is key The axial fans are compact, so readily ﬁt into small spaces They come with easy-to-follow installation instructions and ﬂexible mounting options, while compatible ducting kits are available to order

Built with high-quality materials and durable components, the new fans are robust and provide long-lasting, reliable performance, whilst also being positioned at an extremely attractive price point, representing genuine value for money.

HOW TO ENTER

THINGS ARE HEATING UP

Hager and Vaillant UK have recently announced a collaboration to develop and launch dedicated Type B HP RCD consumer units designed for Vaillant’s range of air source heat pumps (ASHPs). Mark Kimberley, UK Market Manager at Hager, explains why this is excellent news for installers.

The strategic collaboration between Hager and Vaillant UK brings together two recognisable German companies, combining decades of expertise in electrical safety and renewable heating solutions The result is a turnkey consumer unit oﬀer that provides electrical safety, performance, and ease of installation for residential ASHPs

A new standard in electrical protection for heat pumps

The electrification of heating is accelerating across the UK and Europe, and ASHPs are playing a central role in the transition to net-zero

However, these systems, particularly those with integrated inverter technology, can produce smooth DC residual currents and high-frequency leakage currents that traditional RCD protection devices are not equipped to handle As a result, this can cause unnecessary tripping and system downtime.

To address this challenge, Hager has developed a new Type B HP RCCB (Residual Current Circuit Breaker), specially engineered to detect smooth DC leakage currents and function at frequencies greater than 20 kHz, ensuring a minimum tripping threshold of 150 mA for frequencies above 1 kHz

This device will be a core component of the new consumer units co-developed with Vaillant, UK ensuring that each ASHP installation is electrically safe, fully compliant, and avoids any unwanted tripping.

Hager’s deep understanding of electrical protection and Vaillant UK’s leadership in ASHP technology made this collaboration a natural fit By aligning our product development with Vaillant UK’s systems, we’re simplifying installations for contractors and safeguarding customers with best-in-class protection

Designed for installers, trusted by homeowners

The dedicated consumer units are designed to simplify the installation process, reduce on-site decision making, and are fully tested and validated for use with Vaillant UK ASHPs

Each unit comes factory-wired and conﬁgured with the correct Type B HP RCCB and MCB, plus outgoing RCBOs for the immersion heater and controls.

“This collaboration ensures our ASHP systems are installed with the highest level of electrical protection,” said Paul Honeyman, UK Head of Product Management at Vaillant

“By working closely with Hager, we’re giving installers the conﬁdence to deliver safe, reliable, and compliant heat pump

systems every time ”

In addition to enhancing safety, the solution contributes to faster installation times and also minimises system downtime and fault ﬁnding when incompatible RCDs have been used and trip

Market impact and availability

This joint oﬀering will be available through Vaillant UK’s plumbing/heating distributors, backed with technical documentation and installer support provided by both Hager and Vaillant UK The launch is part of Hager’s broader strategy of shaping tomorrow’s electrical world in renewables.

A shared vision for a sustainable future

Both companies share a common vision: accelerating the transition to low-carbon technologies while upholding the highest standards of safety, quality, and engineering excellence

This collaboration is more than a product launch, it’s a statement of intent. As two companies with strong roots in innovation, we’re committed to setting new standards in the integration of electrical and heating technologies

Craig Dolan, Senior Product Manager at Dimplex, advises on the beneﬁts of hot water heat pumps, how they work and why installers need to be aware of this growing technology as part of their oﬀering to decarbonise both new and existing homes across the UK.

HOT ON THE CASE

With new regulations already in place and further changes incoming, installers and trade professionals are under increasing pressure to provide solutions to support the decarbonisation of new and existing UK homes

Hot water heat pumps (HWHPs), which use air-source heat pump technology to provide hot water to residential dwellings, are emerging as the ideal energy-eﬃcient solution

These compact, self-contained systems combine a ducted fresh air supply with a small refrigeration circuit mounted on top of a water cylinder With a similar footprint to a standard hot water cylinder, HWHPs can be sited in cupboards, within garages, or utility rooms and support the hot water needs of up to six occupants

traditional heating and hot water systems are no longer viable due to fuel type, limited space, tighter building regulations, or planning constraints. So, in situations where conventional monobloc or split systems would be diﬃcult or impractical to install, HWHPs are an ideal solution

Amongst the many advantages HWHPs provide, for installers, the first and foremost benefit is straightforward installation They can be easily integrated into a home's existing setup with minimal disruption and maintenance, making them a smart specification choice

HWHPs are also designed with end users in mind and most models come with simple, intuitive controls This allows the

programming of heating schedules to suit individual lifestyles while optimising energy eﬃciency

Many units, such as the Dimplex Edel, also oﬀer remote control via Apps, enabling users to manage both space and water heating as part of a connected, smart home system

How eﬃcient is this technology?

Hot water heat pumps (HWHPs) offer a far more efficient solution for domestic hot water than fossil fuel boilers Using energy drawn from the air, models like the Dimplex Edel can deliver a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of up to 3.36, generating 3 36 kW of heat for every 1 kW

What are the other key beneﬁts?

Meeting Part L requirements in today’s residential new builds is becoming increasingly complex, particularly when

of electricity used

In comparison, even the most efficient modern gas boilers achieve only around 85-90% efficiency in hot water mode This means a HWHP can deliver up to three to four times more usable heat than a gas boiler for the same energy input, leading to significant energy and carbon savings.

When paired with a 100% renewable electricity tariﬀ, the system can deliver hot water entirely from renewable sources, both locally and nationally generated This leaves space heating to be handled by a separate system

However, in properties without a wet heating system, such as smaller new builds or homes already using electric heating, space heating is typically provided by electric radiators or high heat retention storage heaters

Are HWHPs easy to install?

Another key beneﬁt of HWHPs is that most are designed to oﬀer a seamless, standalone solution, eliminating the need for specialist heat pump installation expertise on-site, creating an opportunity for electricians to provide a vital component of an all-electric HVAC system in a growing market

Designed exclusively for indoor use, the unit should be positioned close to an external wall to simplify and optimise ducting eﬃciency Installation is similar to that of a standard unvented hot water cylinder, with the addition of two ducts to manage airﬂow for the heat pump. The Dimplex Edel comes pre-wired with an integrated control system to simplify installation and commissioning

Installers seeking to unlock more business opportunities through HWHPs can access hands-on, face-to-face training on Dimplex products, including heat pump principles and servicing, as well as a course covering the Edel hot water heat pump

Go with the PRO

The Dimplex PRO Installer Club has also been established to help installers achieve higher standards. The free membership oﬀers access to valuable resources, technical information, dedicated support, complimentary product training, and exclusive oﬀers and special promotions BROWSE THE FULL RANGE OF DIMPLEX HOT WATER HEAT PUMPS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBQ048

As ﬁre safety rightfully continues to occupy a position in the public’s conscious, we put the questions to Johann Keen, National Sales Manager for Trade at FireAngel, to ﬁnd out more about what the brand has been up to lately and why it continues to lead from the front.

THE BURNING QUESTIONS

QIt’s

been a little while since our readers heard from FireAngel –what has the brand been working on behind the scenes?

It’s been a period of strategic growth for us at FireAngel. Over the past two years, we’ve continued to evolve our product range and operations, with a clear focus on innovation and long-term industry support

In 2024, we joined forces with Siterwell, a global high-tech manufacturer specialising in intelligent safety systems and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions This formalised a long-standing relationship that gives us access to cutting-edge R&D, scalable production, and world-class testing facilities

We continue to operate with strong roots in the UK, with dedicated in-house teams overseeing quality assurance, product development and customer support tailored to the UK market

QHow has FireAngel evolved its product offering to better support the needs of today’s electrical professionals?

We’ve developed a range of hybrid safety alarm systems that offer installers more flexibility than ever before as they’re compatible with a variety of domestic property types – from new builds and extensions to retrofits and even Grade I listed buildings

The versatility of hybrid solutions has made them a popular choice amongst industry professionals, particularly in situations where adding hardwired connections isn’t feasible in retrofit projects.

The wireless interlinking capabilities of our alarms boost overall safety performance as they allow for effective and efficient communication between all devices in the event of a fire or CO leak

QWhatrecent fire safety legislation or updates should installers be aware of, and how is FireAngel supporting them to stay compliant?

The core standard remains BS 58396:2019+A1:2020, which outlines fire detection requirements in domestic settings, particularly in rental properties, HMOs and social housing

Grade D1 systems are now widely expected in these environments, and

installers play a critical role not just in fitting alarms, but in ensuring systems are fully tested, commissioned and documented

At FireAngel, our solutions are designed to meet or exceed these standards, and we offer dedicated support, including training and guidance, to help ensure full compliance across every project

QWhat sets FireAngel apart from other alarm suppliers when it comes to supporting installers working in residential and domestic settings?

As well as offering life-saving technology, we also provide installers and wholesale partners with a comprehensive package of support

This includes accredited training courses, a mobile App to simplify installation and commissioning, technical support provided by dedicated

teams, on-site assistance and an extensive library of online resources

Whether it’s advising on the right product mix, site support during installations or help and maintenance post-installation, we’re committed to being a long-term partner, not just a product provider

QQuality

and reliability are critical when installing life safety systems. How does FireAngel ensure its products meet the high standards that professional installers and their customers expect?

We’re dedicated to providing life-saving technology that is trustworthy, so we place reliability as the foundation of our work Our rigorous quality assurance processes exceed industry norms to uphold accountability

Each smoke, heat and CO alarm is individually and meticulously tested to guarantee they reach FireAngel’s performance and safety standards, which goes beyond the more typical batch testing methods that are commonly used in the industry

This thorough testing process confirms that every single alarm is functioning as it should, providing installers and end users with the highest level of confidence in the products’ reliability and effectiveness once installed

To further enhance reliability and quality, we run an ongoing quality

control programme

Over 300 alarms from across various product ranges are randomly selected each month to undergo additional tests to check sound output levels, assessing core operational functions and circuit integrity

This combination of testing ensures FireAngel continues to meet the high standards expected by installers and their customers

Our ISO 9001-certified quality management system is also key to the reliability and quality of its operations This is a framework that encompasses each aspect of product development, manufacturing, and customer service

By adhering to the ISO 9001 standard, FireAngel successfully achieves consistency and structure in its quality, while continuously improving in regard to compliance and innovation

QWithfire safety now firmly at the front of mind across all types of UK housing, why should professional installers consider choosing FireAngel? FireAngel offers a compliant and futureproofed approach to domestic home safety

Our advanced range includes the latest sensing technology fitted in our smoke, heat and CO alarms, and we support a flexible and adaptable system approach to suit the unique needs of each property and resident We also provide wireless interlinking to improve protection without

the complexity of hardwiring

Beyond the product, our support and compliance guidance help simplify specification and installation, which is essential for busy professionals navigating ever-changing regulations.

QHow

is FireAngel working to keep installers connected and informed?

We take a multi-channel approach to this communications process Our regional teams deliver in-person training and product demonstrations, while our Installer App and online help provide 24/7 access to product updates, technical documents and support tools.

We also provide post-installation assistance through our technical helpline, and we’re present at major trade events throughout the year to connect directly with installers and stay tuned into the latest market needs and trends

Our goal is to support installers at every stage – before, during and after the job – while helping them stay compliant with the latest standards and regulations at all times.

QWhat is FireAngel’s long-term commitment to trade professionals, and how is the business making compliant fire and CO safety easier to specify and install?

Our long-term focus is on making compliance straightforward without compromising on innovation and quality. We’re continuing to invest in new technologies, training, and installer support tools to ensure safety systems are not only high-performing, but easy to work with

We also collaborate closely with fire and rescue services, housing providers and regulatory bodies to ensure our solutions align with latest industry needs

We have the infrastructure and investment to scale our support while maintaining a strong focus on UK-based engineering and building trusted relationships with trade professionals

GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT

GET A GRIP!

Since the launch of the CHUMPFix plasterboard ﬁxing, we’ve seen some amazing responses from the electrical industry as the product continues to gain traction with the end users it was designed to help.

As a result of this increased demand, we’ve also seen a signiﬁcant upturn in enquiries from wholesalers who are keen to stock this innovative product and have now grown our stockist list to over 1,000 outlets

What is CHUMPFix?

CHUMPFix is not just any standard ﬁxing. Because the entire product was designed to be behind the plasterboard, not only do you get a quality, durable ﬁxing, but the board is also reinforced at the same time

you’ll have the job completed in no time

There’s no need to relocate lights to the nearest joist, leaving ugly holes for the customer or decorator to repair, and no more making holes larger to feed wood above the ceiling, with the risk of visible damage after you’ve completed your work The CHUMPFix will span the hole and hold on tight

How about a scenario where you need to ﬁx lights in a straight line above a

breakfast bar, and are worried the client will notice the millimetre alignment?

It’s already been quite a year for the electrician-inspired CHUMPFix solution, with the product gaining popularity with both end users and wholesaler stockists alike. Keiran Pye, the product’s inventor, provides us with the latest updates and developments.

1. The product is very easy to use with multiple holes, and I’m confident in stating that it is all but impossible to miss out on getting a secure fixing first time if you’re applying it correctly If you have any doubts, just ask Gary Fisher of Lougar Electric who independently reviewed the product in the July/August issue of PE

You simply feed the ﬁxing through the same hole as the cables, and hold on to the handle while screwing your accessory to the ceiling or wall This alternative way of thinking contributes to a faster, stronger and tougher way of ﬁxing items to plasterboard.

Once you’ve used the product a couple of times you’ll be astounded at how quickly lights, surface boxes, etc can be installed It’s also perfect for use with suspended ceilings

But what if you’re having problems with damaged board or lathe and plaster? Fear not, as through the use of CHUMPFIX

CHUMPFix can take that stress away as the ﬁnal positioning can be adjusted millimetre by millimetre to quickly create the perfect alignment Speed is king, so by removing the need to mark and drill every hole, the light ﬁttings will go up faster and they’ll be perfectly in line

Common queries from the ﬁeld

1. Is it diﬃcult to use? 2. What weight can it carry? 3. How tough is it? These are probably the three most regular queries we receive from end users, so I’ll have a go at answering each:

2. The CHUMPFix can comfortably hold up to 50 kg in weight, which is far more than the plasterboard This means that you can use it for any normal light ﬁtting It’s also especially useful for surface sockets

3. The CHUMPFix is made of nylon, which is a tough material that will take the threads off a screw securely. As a result, it’s virtually impossible for a user to pull a surface socket off the wall with a CHUMPFix In fact, the wall will have to break for the socket box to become detached

SAFER ISOLATION, SAFER INDUSTRY

Following his introduction to PE’s readership last year, we catch up with James Cornet, Director at TradeFox, to ﬁnd out how his award-winning Safe Isolation Simulator has evolved and what’s next for this rapidly growing force in electrical safety education.

It’s been a busy 2025 for James Cornet, Director of TradeFox and the innovator behind the award-winning Safe Isolation Simulator Since scooping a coveted PE ‘Top Product’ award at the end of last year, James has taken his hands-on training revolution across the UK, reshaping how electrical safety is taught, understood, and practised. With a passion for protecting apprentices and professionals alike, he is now doubling down on the next generation of training tools

From award-winner to industry staple

Since the launch of the Safe Isolation Simulator, James has had what he describes as “the best 12 months of my life ”

Juggling the many hats of a founder in a lean startup, he has thrown himself into developing the TradeFox App, reﬁning simulations, and expanding the company’s online presence But the highlight, he says, has been travelling the UK, visiting colleges and training centres, and witnessing

ﬁrst-hand the impact of his creation

“It’s been inspiring to see how the training is helping learners,” James states “And I’ve had the chance to connect with some real legends of electrical safety, like Paul Meenan (a man I’ve dubbed ‘Mr Diverted Neutral Current’) and David Davenport – Mr Arc Flash himself. The support from the likes of the Arc Guard team has been incredible.”

Concept to reality

The Safe Isolation Simulator, designed to teach and reinforce the principles of safe isolation, has now been oﬃcially launched and, according to James, is being enthusiastically embraced by those who need it most – apprentices and professionals who may only get limited opportunities to practise safe isolation in a real-world or college setting

“But, like Da Vinci said, ‘Art is never finished, only abandoned ’ We’re constantly tweaking and improving – game mechanics, user interface, educational

theory It's a never-ending process ”

To this end, James actively encourages users to provide feedback, insisting that community input is critical to keeping the simulator relevant and effective

Hidden hazards

One of the more sobering lessons James has picked up over the past year is that safe isolation, while vital, isn’t a silver bullet.

He points to Mike Frain, author of The European Arc Flash Guide, whose mantra – “Treat all electrical equipment and conductors as live unless proven dead” – has become something of a guiding principle for James The book, he says, should be required reading for every electrical apprentice

“I wish I could say you’re safe if you follow the procedure, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case,” he explains

“There are unseen threats, like diverted neutral current (DNC) – especially dangerous in TNC-S systems – that make the picture much more complex Plumbers

and gas engineers, often unaware of electrical threats, can be especially vulnerable in this situation

“Guidance Note 3 has advice for this procedure, particularly the use of a clamp meter to test for abnormal levels of current at the main protective bonding conductor

“The clamp meter should become a standard part of every electrician’s toolkit, however it is not always effective at registering DNC as the adjacent property might not have a load at the time of testing ”

He continues: “In these instances, after safe isolation and re-reading of measurements in the clamp meter, disconnection of the main protective bonding conductor is recommended to test for dangerous voltage In these rare scenarios, it is only after disconnection that voltage will become present

“This is a very dangerous procedure due to risk of both electrocution and arc flash and therefore requires live working risk assessments Even if voltage is not present while testing, it could appear at any time the main protective bonding conductor is disconnected due to a load from a neighbouring property

“You can find fantastic references for live working risk assessments in The European Arc Flash Guide, plus the e5 Group have some brilliant podcasts on YouTube for learning more about diverted neutral current ”

To help identify DNC risks, James champions early-warning tools like IRISS INC’s Safe-Connect (featured in PE earlier this year), which allows for passive monitoring of bonding conductors.

“And if in doubt,” he stresses, “always call the DNO responsible for the intake equipment on 105 As high-voltage engineer, Graham Hogg, once told me: ‘Always test before you touch!’”

A new era of learning

While digital learning is on the rise, James is staunch in his opinion that simulation is not a replacement for hands-on training.

“Nothing beats real-world experience,” he says. “But what we offer is critical support between those practical sessions You can’t always practice safe isolation unsupervised Simulations offer a safe, repeatable environment to build confidence and competence ”

The simulator, he notes, has found a natural home in UK colleges, who were early adopters More recently, some of the country’s largest engineering firms have also come knocking.

“We’re seeing growing interest from across the industry Once people try it, they see the value ”

What’s next for TradeFox?

The Safe Isolation Simulator, it turns out, is only the tip of the TradeFox iceberg with James revealing that more simulations are in development, including one focused on diverted neutral current testing

Later this year, TradeFox will launch its Premium package –a

monthly subscription service priced, as James puts it, “at about the same as a socket outlet or a fused spur from your local wholesaler ” This will provide full access to TradeFox’s expanding suite of training materials.

“We want to make high-quality, accessible safety training affordable to everyone in the trade,” he says

“The value of that training far outweighs the cost – especially when it could mean saving a life ”

Try it today

For those curious about the simulator, James is oﬀering an open invitation to try it out. The base training is available free on both iOS and Android – just search TradeFox Build Skills A web-based version is also available at the TradeFox website, giving learners and professionals multiple ways to explore the platform

The bottom line

In an industry where the correct safety procedures can mean the diﬀerence between life and death, James Cornet and TradeFox are leading a digital training revolution that’s as practical as it is pioneering

Combining tech innovation with a deep respect for hands-on learning, James’ mission is simple: empower electricians with the tools they need to stay safe, stay sharp, and stay alive

As new threats like diverted neutral current emerge and old ones like arc flash persist, it’s reassuring to know that some are helping the industry not just to keep up, but to stay one step ahead

GO FIT, SPURLOK

awareness, we take a look at a how and why the electricianinvented Spurlok device can help to save lives.

At just four years old, Birmingham-born Neo Mosudisa was already dismantling household electronics with a screwdriver and a dream. But while his passion for engineering was clear, it wasn’t until a dangerous incident during his electrical maintenance engineer apprenticeship at a steel plant that Neo found the inspiration that would reshape his career – and potentially the electrical industry

In 2016, aged 19, Neo encountered a faulty water cooler on-site that posed a serious electrical hazard. In that moment, he realised a critical safety gap: there was no lockout device available for the fused spur unit controlling the cooler

The experience didn’t just highlight a ﬂaw in procedure – it lit the spark for what would become Spurlok, a simple but powerful lockout device designed to isolate fused spur units and secure them with a padlock.

Spurlok is now poised to become a must-have for electricians and gas engineers across the UK Designed with ease of use and regulatory compliance in mind, the device empowers workers to lock out fused spur circuits safely during maintenance or repair – ﬁlling a long-standing gap in isolation safety After its inception, Spurlok quickly

gained attention In 2019, it was awarded “Highly Commended” in the Product Safety Innovation Awards by Electrical Safety First, a signiﬁcant nod for a product that was still in development.

That same year, Neo founded Nemo Solutions and began working with Innovate UK EDGE, supported by business mentor Roy Pulley and product designer Rob Harwood, to turn his concept into a market-ready solution

Feedback from users

Conducting user trials was a crucial component of Spurlok’s development process. Neo developed functional prototype Spurlok kits and distributed them to gas engineers and electricians, allowing them to use them in the real world

He captured the thoughts and opinions from the people the product was designed for prior to manufacturing, meaning he was able to integrate this invaluable feedback back into the ﬁnal product. This collaboration allowed Spurlok to become a safety device that’s for engineers by engineers

The production journey wasn’t without its challenges, but by mid-2023, Spurlok had moved into full-scale pilot production with Andel Plastics in Birmingham

Through careful reﬁnement and injection-mould tooling, the team transformed a safety concern into a

commercial product that could soon become standard kit for engineers nationwide.

Behind the invention is a deeper mission Between 2019 and 2021, the UK saw a 200% rise in electrical fatalities –a statistic that alarms Neo “If Spurlok can help save the life of just one electrician,” he says, “then that’s a success ”

That ethos has earned Neo more than just praise – it’s brought him national recognition In 2023, he was named one of the 94 winners of the Innovate UK Young Innovators Award, selected from more than 700 applicants The award came with £5,000 in funding and tailored mentorship, helping accelerate Spurlok’s path to market

By 2024, he was included in the eFIXX 30-Under-30 list and featured in an Innovate UK case study alongside Andel Plastics, showcasing the value of innovation born from experience. From childhood tinkerer to safety pioneer, Neo is proof that real-world problems demand hands-on solutions And with Spurlok, he’s delivering exactly that – one locked-out spur at a time

ELEX 2025

THREE OF CHARGE

Whether you’re chasing walls, cutting trunking, or drilling into concrete, reliable equipment that sets a high standard is essential. Here, Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita runs through the three core power tools every electrician needs to make workdays smoother and more eﬃcient.

1. SG1251 WALL CHASER

The SG1251 makes chasing walls quicker, cleaner, and easier, and is an ideal solution for electricians who need to cut clean channels in masonry for wiring and conduit.

Fitted with dual diamond blades that operate simultaneously, and powered by a 1,400 W motor, the wall chaser is able to cut precise grooves into concrete and brick

The guard has been designed to eﬀectively control and minimise dust becoming airborne when the machine is connected to an M-Class dust extractor

Dust is contained within the enclosed guard and eﬃciently directed via the dust nozzle into the extractor, meaning operators can achieve a cleaner working area whilst protecting the user

The wall chaser is also designed with a Super Joint System (SJS) – a mechanical clutch system, which helps to minimise motor and gear damage

In addition, the cutting width is adjustable between 6 mm and 30 mm, making it ideal for standard cable runs. Its slim body design and soft start motor provide excellent user control and, at just 4 5 kg, it’s also lightweight enough for prolonged use without fatigue

For ﬁrst-ﬁx electrical work, this tool takes the hassle out of wall chasing and drastically cuts down time spent on-site

2. CS002G 40V MAX XGT METAL CUTTER

Cutting metal can be dangerous and requires large amounts of power, but the CS002G solves both problems.

As part of Makita’s powerful XGT 40 V Max range, it delivers the performance equivalent to mains-powered alternatives whilst remaining fully cordless and convenient

The machine also uses cold-cut technology to deliver burr-free, spark-free cuts, which makes it safer to use inside buildings and in busy environments.

With a 185 mm blade and a no-load speed of 3,500 rpm, the metal cutter can cut through conduit, cable tray, trunking, and mild steel with minimal effort and has a cutting capacity of 67 mm

3. DLX2137PTJ TWIN KIT

For an all-round drilling solution, this 18 V LXT two-piece Combo Kit brings together two essential tools: the DHP482 Combi Drill and the DHR263 Rotary Hammer.

The DHP482 Combi Drill is lightweight, making it comfortable to use frequently throughout the day, and delivers up to 62 Nm of torque, featuring a two-speed gearbox It is ideal for wood, metal and light masonry work

Alongside it, the DHR263 Rotary Hammer uses two 18 V batteries to deliver 36 V of SDS-Plus hammering performance, making it ideal for tougher tasks such as drilling anchor holes and chasing out channels in concrete or brick when used in the chiselling mode

The tool also has an electronically controlled brushless motor to optimise battery energy use for longer run times per charge Additionally, the brushless motor ensures the tool remains maintenance-free and has longer lifespans

Thanks to reduced noise, no heat build-up, and minimal clean-up, this cutter is ideal for jobs where precision and safety are priorities

With an impact energy of 2 5 joules and three operation modes, it’s built for versatility Whether you’re on first fix or finishing touches, this kit ensures you’ve got the right tool for the job

THE FACTS ABOUT TAX

Benjamin Dyer, CEO of Powered Now, looks at the upcoming government-mandated Making Tax Digital (MTD) legislation and explains the possible ways that electrical businesses can comply.

It ’s n o t t h a t o f t e n t h a t t h e

g o v e r n m e n t c h a n g e s t h e l a w i n a

w a y t h a t h a s a r e a l i m p a c t , b u t

M a k i n g Ta x D i g i t a l , o r M T D, f i t s

i n t o t h a t c a t e g o r y T h e g o o d n e w s

i s t h a t i t o n l y i m p a c t s s o m e

p e o p l e T h e b a d n e w s i s t h a t i t w i l l

e v e n t u a l l y i m p a c t A L L b u s i n e s s e s .

Making Tax Digital is a rolling project, aimed at improving the eﬃciency of both tax authorities and businesses by computerising their interactions

Up to this point it has only gone live for VAT registered businesses The project has already been running for several years and has had numerous delays, but the latest deadline is now looming and is certain to go ahead.

B r o a d l y s p e a k i n g , M T D c o m p e l s

b u s i n e s s e s t o ke e p d i g i t a l r e c o r d s a n d

c o m m i t s H M R C t o m a ke t h e

i n f o r m a t i o n t h a t t h e y h o l d a b o u t

t a x p a y e r s a v a i l a b l e o n l i n e

Who is going to be impacted next?

The current phase, Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD for IT), only involves

income tax returns and only applies to sole traders If your business is a partnership or limited liability company, you won’t, for now, be impacted

So, it applies to sole traders and their tax returns to HMRC Compliance will happen over a three-year period and HMRC are writing to businesses that they think must follow the new rules.

The need for compliance is based on the total sales (not profit) of your electrical business plus any rental income you have from property in the UK or overseas Any PAYE income, interest, pensions, dividends and capital gains do not count towards the total

Add your sales and rent for the latest tax year and then:

● If sales are over £50,000 you have to comply from 6th April 2026,

● If over £30,000, compliance starts 6th April 2027,

● If over £20,000, compliance starts 6th April 2028

It seems likely that sole traders with sales below £20,000 will never have to follow the MTD for IT rules

What is needed to comply?

MTD for IT requires three things:

1. Keeping digital records of all sales and costs,

2 Your software submits a quarterly report summarising these records to HMRC using their new MTD system,

3. Your software submits a final tax return to HMRC, again using their new MTD system

There are a couple of related things:

● There is a new penalty points system for non-compliance,

● If you are over the VAT threshold, currently £90,000 per annum, then you must categorise your costs by certain categories that HMRC specify, otherwise your returns can just be total sales and total costs less any amounts disallowed against tax

There are two potential benefits:

1. An estimate of your likely liability for tax can be provided after each quarterly return,

2. HMRC will provide all the information that they hold about you, such as the interest that you have received. The information includes CIS payments withheld from your invoices and made by contractors to HMRC This is a useful way to check that they are actually paying the CIS to HMRC

Can I use my accountant?

You can hand the whole problem over to your accountant and they can keep your digital records on their system. You just need to regularly send them your sales and costs so that they can keep up-to-date records and submit quarterly returns Information on the costs and rents for rental properties would also need to be sent at least quarterly

The annual return process would be similar to your current annual tax return, but with some detail already sent in the quarterly returns Accountants are likely to charge you a higher fee than before to do the quarterly returns.

Can I do everything for MTD myself ?

It is possible for you to keep digital records on your own system provided it is able somehow to submit MTD for IT

quarterly returns

Your accountant could still help you at the tax year end and is likely to charge a similar fee to the one they charge today

If you already do your own tax returns you can continue, but you must use an MTD compatible system and comply with digital records and quarterly returns

What software should I use?

It is possible to comply by using spreadsheets and “bridging software” to talk to HMRC but I would not recommend this It’s all faff and risk with few, if any, benefits, although it may be the lowest cost solution

All of the major accountancy software packages such as Xero, Quickbooks or Sage will enable you to comply with MTD for IT. Of course, accountancy products are mostly designed for accountants so won’t help that much in running your dayto-day electrical business

If you already use a job management system, it is likely the supplier will have a plan to help their customers comply with MTD

If you haven’t yet tried using a job management system, this may be the time to take the plunge Having customer records, invoices, bills, diary and certificates all in one place has major benefits, not to mention automating much of your communication

with customers You will also come across as much more professional

There are two ways job management systems can meet the MTD for IT requirement:

1. Require a connection to an accounting system, most likely one of those mentioned above,

2. Support MTD for IT natively, allowing all submissions to be made straight from the system without needing the additional cost of an accounting system

My company, Powered Now, will be supporting MTD for IT natively As far as we know, we’re currently the only job management system to announce that it will do this

Are there any benefits of going digital?

Going digital generally makes things more efficient, which is why every large business uses computers, and we all have smartphones

When you keep your records up-todate as you go along it generally takes less effort After all, it’s sometimes hard to remember what an expense was months after the event.

Knowing what HMRC knows about you and being able to get an estimate of tax liabilities should reduce mistakes and make cashflow planning easier GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT POWERED NOW JOB MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE BY

C.K Tools relaunches Redline VDE pliers and cutters range

C K Tools has unveiled the relaunch of its best-selling flagship range of pliers and cutters, Redline VDE, featuring a brand-new cutting-edge handle design to improve comfort and usability

Following extensive research into ergonomics, comfort, safety and feedback from users, the new-look pliers and cutters range has been re-developed with expert German manufacturing, to deliver the highest-class, VDE-compliant tools, offering quality, precision and comfort –now with additional tool tether for added safety, when working at height

Work at height safety is becoming more of a focus due to corporate responsibility and duty of care, but also because of lost time and injury reasons. There is now a much more comprehensive understanding of the dangers of working at height

Initially this focused on the worker themselves being safe at height, but now we are seeing a realisation that tools dropped from above can cause serious injury or worse, with resulting authorities getting involved in

investigations, increased insurance costs and of course downtime. This is apart from the potentially devastating results of such incidents

In 2023/2024 there were 50 deaths in the UK and almost 5,000 non -fatal injuries from working at height, with dropped tools contributing to these numbers

With C K Tools supplying the electrician or electrical engineer and the focus on renewables, whether that be solar or wind, for example, it was logical for the brand to develop a range that not only provided VDE approved safety but also had working at height solutions integrated into it

The new Redline VDE range features 19 SKUs including side cutters, cable cutters, snipe nose pliers, combination pliers and the best-selling Combicutter –available in a variety of sizes to

METREL UK

MI3340 AlphaEE XA PAT Tester

An innovative new PAT tester has been released by Metrel UK The MI3340 AlphaEE XA is capable of performing all the tests you would expect from modern test equipment, plus EVSE diagnostic testing, portable RCDs and devices with floating inputs such as communications equipment It is also 3-phase capable The Li-ion powered tester has the options of touch-screen or push button control while the operating system is familiar from the extensive range of Metrel touch-screen test devices Results can be saved in the vast on-board memory which can be used to drive the testing protocol if desired Designed to be easy to hold in one hand, the MI3340 brings a number of different tests to the table such as socket testing and standby power, offering power factor and harmonic distortion The unit’s interface is extra intuitive, making it quick to learn and easy to operate, speeding the user to the certification of the job.

DOEPKE UK

Switchgear Range

Doepke UK’s switchgear is built for performance in demanding environments. With ratings up to 630 A, it's ideal for commercial and industrial applications – from large machinery to complex TT and PV systems. Available in 3P+N (unswitched neutral) and 4P (switched neutral) options, the range covers a wide variety of installation needs. Each unit is assembled in the UK at Doepke’s Daventry facility, ensuring short lead times and consistent quality. For installers working to tight deadlines, Doepke oﬀers next-day delivery through its wholesale partners or via direct collection Combining German engineering with local support, Doepke switchgear delivers the reliability, safety, and speed that electricians across the UK can count on

Joy of HEX as Rolec adds to its commercial AC portfolio

announced a major addition to its commercial AC portfolio – HEX

Drawing on nearly two decades of experience in the EV charging industry, Rolec has created a brand-new unit to meet the growing demands of businesses and organisations across the globe.

Developed and manufactured in the UK, HEX is a distinctive new oﬀering that prioritises space like no other. Its unique and innovative quad-outlet design is ideal for centrally located parking bays, reducing groundwork and installation requirements while maximising charging availability for EV drivers.

Constructed of robust steel and created with a small footprint, HEX is purpose-built for commercial, workplace, and public charging environments. The same attention to design continues internally: eﬀortless OCPP integration, optional plug & go, and a choice of 2 or 4-way 22 kW charging makes for a fully conﬁgurable and seamless solution

Payment ﬂexibility is also a key feature with options for RFID, pay-to-charge, and a single contactless payment terminal that can serve all four sockets An optional 5” LCD screen displays real-time charging status, while built-in MID-approved energy metering provides accurate consumption reporting, essential for sites looking to recover costs or generate proﬁt

Compatible with Rolec’s 40+ CPMS partners, a smart back-oﬃce platform enables operators to set custom tariﬀs and unlock new revenue streams

HEX is installer-friendly too It oﬀers easy access from both sides, includes lockable internal access door as standard, supports split phase supply, and is engineered with compactness and deployment eﬃciency in mind

Additional features include small, diﬀused LED amenity lighting for accessibility in low-light locations The unit also conforms to the PAS 1899 accessible charging standard, delivering EV charging for all users.

HEX is not only a smart choice for infrastructure, but also a smart choice for funding Eligible for four separate government grants, its four-socket design provides excellent value and investment potential for businesses, local authorities, and destination venues

Charging ahead

In other news, Rolec has recently launched its upgraded UltraCharge range, in a strategic partnership with EVbee. The collaboration brings together two forward-thinking companies with a shared mission: accelerate the rollout of EV infrastructure.

Now, as a combined force in the charge towards large-scale EV adoption, Rolec and EVbee have announced 4 new additions to the UltraCharge range. The result is a well-rounded, premium package, which oﬀers better support and the conﬁdence of being future-proof

Launched to serve a broader spectrum of commercial and public sector applications, oﬀering wider power outputs, from 40 kW to 1 6 MW+, and greater ﬂexibility to meet diverse site requirements, the new UltraCharge range is available now.

GET MORE DETAILS ON THE ROLEC HEX RANGE BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBQ059

GET MORE DETAILS ON THE ROLEC ULTRACHARGE RANGE AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBQ060

CHAUVIN ARNOUX UK

6683 Cable Locator

Chauvin Arnoux UK has launched the CA 6683 Cable Locator, a high-performance locating solution for accurately tracing cables, wires, and metal pipes in walls and underground The tool provides an intuitive, reliable method for detecting live or dead conductors, short circuits, metal piping, and circuit elements without destructive or invasive techniques Its advanced technology offers quick diagnostics and clear visualisation of signal strength and circuit paths, even in challenging conditions This advanced locator strikes the perfect balance between affordability, versatility, and safety, delivering precise, dependable results while eliminating guesswork. Designed for demanding environments, the CA 6683 minimises the risk of accidental contact with live wires or hidden infrastructure – ensuring efficient, secure operation without compromising on performance From construction and renovation to ongoing maintenance, the unit simplifies detection and enables faster, more informed decision-making on-site The transmitter features a built-in voltage detector with a varying external voltage identification range, adjustable signal power, and offers digital signal coding that allows the use of seven transmitters simultaneously. The receiver can detect non-contact voltage up to 1,000 V AC, with a backlit LCD, adjustable sensitivity, silent mode, and integrated torch for low-light environments The CA 6683 comes with both a transmitter – CA 6683E -–and a receiver – CA 6683R –pre-calibrated and supplied with all necessary accessories such as mains plug and lamp socket adapters, crocodile clips and T-stake for ground connections, multi-language user manual and verification certificate It is supplied in a durable transport case with spare AAA batteries

Kyros radiator is now smarter, safer and available in black

For more than a decade, Rointe s Kyros electric radiators have been a trusted ally for installers across the UK Now, it enters a new era not just updated but transformed

The latest version introduces innovations that respond directly to the real needs of professionals: smarter control, improved energy performance, enhanced safety, simpliﬁed sizing, and a sleek new aesthetic.

At its core is Inverter Smart Adaptive Tech, delivering intelligent heating that adapts to real-time demand Combined with integrated WiFi for remote control and automation, and a bold matt black ﬁnish, the new Kyros is built for the connected, energy-conscious buildings of today and tomorrow

What sets this new Kyros apart is its patented Inverter Smart Adaptive Tech Unlike traditional systems that run at full power until the room reaches temperature, this innovation allows the radiator to modulate its output dynamically, adjusting the power as needed to maintain steady warmth without wasting energy.

When heating begins, Kyros operates at full capacity for a rapid warm-up While reaching the desired temperature, it gradually lowers its output in some cases by up to 80% avoiding power surges and reducing unnecessary consumption. The result is a radiator that heats 25% faster, maintains temperature 35% more consistently, and uses 10% less energy on average

For installers, this means greater customer satisfaction, lower energy bills, and stronger alignment with today’s energy-eﬃciency standards It’s an easy choice for both domestic projects and commercial tenders where performance and sustainability matter.

Safety is now a key concern in many

installations from schools and nurseries to care homes and rental properties That’s why the new Kyros includes a built-in Low Surface Temperature (LST) function

When activated, this feature limits the contact temperature of the radiator’s surface, reducing the risk of burns while maintaining full heating performance It provides added peace of mind and allows installers to meet safety speciﬁcations without needing a separate product line.

mode, and more Users can select from four pre-installed schedules or create their own with ease

One of the biggest shifts in the new Kyros is what you won’t see on the shelf: dozens of power variations Thanks to the precision of Inverter Smart Adaptive Tech, Kyros can now cover a wide range of room sizes using just three radiator sizes

From an installer’s point of view, this is a major breakthrough There’s no need to spend time calculating or sourcing a speciﬁc wattage for each room. Instead, you can conﬁdently work with a smaller selection of models, adjusting the power through the App to suit the requirements of the space

With WiFi Inside and Bluetooth pairing, Kyros connects seamlessly to the Rointe Nexa App, giving end users full control over their heating from anywhere

The App allows for custom programming, remote temperature adjustments, and intelligent automation features such as open window detection, GPS-based routines, guest lock, holiday

A high-contrast TFT display with touch panel also ensures intuitive on-device control, ideal for homes with shared access or those who prefer local settings Whether the user is a homeowner, landlord, or facilities manager, Kyros oﬀers smart control in every scenario.

Design plays a growing role in heating product selection and the new Kyros delivers Available in White RAL 9016 or the stylish new Matt Black RAL 9005, it blends perfectly with contemporary interiors

The radiator is built with a 100% aluminium body and a front-opening panel for easy access and maintenance, combining installer convenience with premium presentation

M2 ELECTRICAL

65 W Dual Type-C USB Charger Socket

M2 Electrical has launched the brand new 65 W Dual Type-C USB Charger Socket. Designed to deliver unmatched charging speeds, this cutting-edge socket provides up to 65 W of power, making it one of the fastest USB charger sockets available today Engineered for modern power needs, this high-output USB charger is capable of charging powerful devices, including gaming laptops, tablets, and smartphones With its intelligent power distribution, the dual USB-C ports continue to deliver high-speed charging even when both are in use – as the 65 W capacity is shared across both USB ports Designed for ultimate convenience, this socket fits seamlessly into a standard 25 mm back box, making it ideal for retrofit installations and workspace upgrades. Available in a range of stylish finishes there’s something for every application – from M2 slimline white moulded to decorative screwless copper and all other finishes available in between

SCOLMORE

IEC Lock C21 Locking Connector

Scolmore has expanded its IEC Lock range with the addition of a new C21 locking connector, compatible with both C20 and C22 inlets Featuring an innovative side button release, the IEC Lock C21’s secure design oﬀers extra protection against accidental disconnection, making it an ideal choice for applications where reliability is essential Designed to handle the heat, the C21 is a durable, lockable connector built to protect appliances that are sensitive to vibration, against power loss This provides a versatile solution for data centres, servers and other industrial equipment where maintaining the proper device temperature is critical to operational success

Reduce mess and deter thieves with in-van storage

The shocking state of UK tradespeople’s vans has been revealed by storage brand BUNKER – with 77% even admitting that their messy vans aﬀect their mental state

More than half of tradespeople in the UK describe their van as being messy and over a third wish they could get their vans more organised

Britian’s messy vans are more than just eyesores, they’re actually costing tradespeople valuable time, with 30% saying they often waste time hunting for tools and essentials in the back of the van

On average, tradespeople waste the best part of an hour (51 minutes) each week searching for items in their vans That could be as much as 40 hours and 48 minutes per year lost to looking through mess

Just under a quarter of tradespeople blame their busy schedules for their van mess, saying they don’t have time to keep their van as organised as they’d like to

The picture isn’t clear cut though, as there is an organised 41% of tradespeople who say they know where everything is in their van. And a neat and tidy 32% of tradespeople say they take pride in the organisation of their van.

More than three quarters of tradespeople admitted that the state of their van can get them down

And while chaotic vans clearly aren’t good for mental wellbeing, it’s nothing compared to the worries tradespeople face about having their van broken into and tools stolen

The Bunker research found more than a third of tradespeople said tool theft was a daily worry for them

To combat this issue, BUNKER oﬀers a new heavy-duty, ultra-secure in-van storage solution so that everyone can take control of their van chaos, as well as organise and protect their tools from theft

Security and protection are central to the range which proudly holds police-backed Secured by Design status and a silver rating by Sold Secure

Choose from rigid, stackable boxes lined with EVA foam, plus sliders and storage boxes all designed to withstand

heavy loads and built with anti-theft design features Each item is rigorously tested, with rigid steel construction and a built-in holder for a Bluetooth tracker, such as an AirTag or SmartTag

Bunker can maximise van space, boost eﬃciency and provide complete peace of mind by creating a secure, custom van storage set up

BROWSE BUNKER’S FULL RANGE OF IN-VAN STORAGE SOLUTIONS BY VISITING: WWW.RDR.LINK/EBQ065

CED ELECTRICAL VAULT Consumer Unit Range

The CED Group has launched a new complete, safe and secure consumer unit range by Axiom. This new VAULT collection features both standard and Surge Protection consumer units presented in attractive sleek enclosures. Starting with standard boards, there are eight sizes from 4 way up to 18 way, each ﬁtted with a 100 A 2P main switch whilst the four Surge Protection units consisting of 10, 14, 16 and 18 way, have a main switch plus SPD T2 40 kA Single Module VAULT Units have a solid metal construction and are built with a whole host of key features, designed for both ease of ﬁtting and use These include being double clamped, with aligned 32 mm entry points, avoiding the need to bend cables, having full MCB blanks and a terminal cover with no direct busbar access In addition, there are new main switches with double terminals for stronger cable grip and a door with both a curved lid for easy opening and a magnet for holding the door open during installation

There’s also a fantastic twist! Every VAULT unit comes with a golden ticket and a unique code – and every ticket is a winner. Crack the VAULT open and submit the unique code to reveal prizes that range from tools to £500 in cash

KNIPEX

EvoStrip Automatic Insulation Strippers

If you want impressive stripping performance with a generous range, look no further than the new KNIPEX EvoStrip With a range of 5 to 22 mm which, without a length stop, can even be extended to up to 25 mm, this tool is perfect for a wide variety of cable types and diameters

The EvoStrip (12 40 200) offers fast and precise stripping results. It has a capacity for cable cross-sections from 0 03 to 10 mm² (AWG 32-8) so fine, stranded and solid conductors can be stripped reliably and without damaging the conductor It automatically adjusts to different conductor cross-sections so is speedy, accurate and consistent The integrated upper cable cutter for copper and aluminium conductors cleanly cuts fine-stranded conductors up to 10 mm² and solid conductors up to 6 mm² The ratcheting setting wheel allows the cutting depth to be precisely adjusted so the tool effortlessly strips, even with tough insulation or in extreme temperatures.

CENTAUR

Aluminium Power Pole

As a proud Midlands-based British manufacturer of PVCu cable management solutions, Centaur has announced the expansion of its power poles and posts range with the launch of the new 100 mm x 100 mm Aluminium Power Pole – designed for demanding environments in the education sector and beyond Engineered for environments where enhanced mechanical strength and adaptability are key, this robust, back-to-back pole design is ideal for educational settings that demand reliable and flexible installations, providing efficient power and data delivery to multiple island-based workstations Wiring accessories can be pre-wired and outlet box positions can be tailor-made to meet your project’s unique specifications Part M options are available to ensure visual contrast against the pole’s aesthetically pleasing traffic white RAL 9016 powder coated finish. Top-quality braided copper earth strips ensure safe installations, while adjustable steel top brackets and fixed base foot brackets guarantee a secure, upright fit. PVCu dividers are also available for power and data segregation Suitable for any length up to 3 6 m, this versatile and resilient power pole is ready to meet the challenges of modern education environments

BRITISH GENERAL Dual Row Circuit Protection

British General has announced the launch of its new BG Dual Row Circuit Protection, designed for larger domestic and light commercial applications, bringing more choice and flexibility to the range Available in two size options – a 36 module and a 48 module – both come supplied with a 100 A main switch as standard The improved Type 2 single module SPD eliminates the need for extra MCB protection, freeing up an additional circuit way, whilst the new MCB-style blanks, a rear clip-in cable protector, and an updated grommet strip contribute to a neater and more organised installation An elongated lifting section on the lid visor for strength and easier access, as well as an innovative lid retainer, makes accessing devices and labelling easier than ever The BG Dual Row consumer unit gives the ability to be standard, dual tariff or bespoke configured to support both electrician and prosumer applications. It features four rows of enlarged oval knock-outs at the rear, complemented by additional versatile 40 mm knock-outs on the sides, top, and bottom, to provide maximum adaptability A new DIN rail design offers a stronger and more secure device engagement

SYNC ENERGY

Sync Energy Link EV Charger

Sync Energy has officially launched Sync Energy Link, it’s smallest, most design-forward EV charger to-date Engineered to blend seamlessly into modern living environments, Link features a unique, patent-approved two-part design, combining smart connectivity, ease of installation, and sleek aesthetics into one intelligent charging solution Available in both Wi-Fi and 4G variants, Link is engineered for durability with IP65 and IK10 ratings – ideal for exposed installations At just 37 mm deep when recessed, it delivers a clean, low-profile finish perfect for new builds and design-conscious retrofits. Its modular, two-part design allows the socket outlet and control unit to be installed separately yet supplied together as one complete kit This gives installers the flexibility to choose between recessed (in-wall) installation for an ultra-minimalist appearance or surface (on-wall) mounting for faster, retrofit-friendly applications. The unit is packed with features to meet today’s technical expectations. Delivering 7 4 kW dynamic charging via a Type 2 socket, Link is fully compatible with the Sync Energy App and supports OCPP 1 6J for seamless monitoring and control

MARTINDALE ELECTRIC HPAT550 Tester

Martindale Electric has launched the HPAT550 – a new entry-level, rechargeable Portable Appliance Tester designed with ease of use in mind Ideal for new and experienced users alike, the HPAT500 features fully automated testing modes for quick and consistent results, making it the perfect choice for compliance checking Efficient one-button automatic testing makes the HPAT550 easy to operate, simplifying PAT testing while maintaining full compliance with the 5th Edition Code of practice testing requirements for Class I and Class II appliances Featuring an intuitive user interface with context-sensitive help screens, the unit is ideal for both seasoned professionals and those new to PAT testing Measured test results are shown alongside clear PASS/FAIL indication. The robust, lightweight, rugged design, make the HPAT550 ideal for engineers conducting routine testing on the move Plus, the high-resolution bright colour display is visible in virtually any lighting condition The HPAT550 features USB-C fast charging and can complete a significant number of tests on a single charge with an auto power-down feature to extend battery life even further. The product also includes an IT-safe 200 mA earth continuity test, selectable insulation resistance testing at 250 V and 500 V, and a dedicated test mode for IEC power leads The 250 V insulation test option ensures compatibility with surge-protected devices – giving testers greater flexibility across a wider range of applications

ATC ELECTRICAL MyATC App

ATC has launched MyATC, a practical new App that turns everyday product purchases into meaningful rewards and offers direct access to technical support and product resources The App is designed specifically for electrical contractors who purchase ATC products through wholesalers across Ireland It rewards users with points for every qualifying purchase, which can be redeemed for digital gift cards from trusted Irish retailers including Tesco, M&S, Just Eat, and others There is no change to your current purchasing process, simply upload invoices via the App and begin earning points. A 100-point welcome bonus is also available when users first sign up The app also serves as a convenient technical resource Users can access ATC’s full product catalogue, check specifications, download installation guides, and find answers to common technical queries, all from their phone, without the need to call or search manually This functionality supports faster decision-making on-site and reduces time spent chasing information, making day-to-day work more efficient

SWITCHTEC SCL Busbar Chambers

Switchtec has launched a comprehensive range of Busbar Chambers Designed for reliable and scalable power distribution, the SCL range meets the needs of contractors, panel builders, and OEMs across a wide spectrum of industrial and commercial environments. The range is available in four standard enclosure sizes – 600 mm, 900 mm, 1,200 mm, and 1,800 mm – allowing for greater flexibility in design and installation. Whether space is limited or extended busbar runs are required, installers can select the most appropriate size for their application, streamlining installation while maintaining compliance and safety Each chamber is fitted with both top and bottom gland plates as standard, offering multiple cable entry options and enabling faster, cleaner cable termination on-site. This dual-entry system provides added convenience for installers and supports a wide range of system configurations Inside the chambers, high-conductivity copper busbars ensure reliable electrical performance with minimal power loss. The robust steel enclosures are built to withstand harsh environments, providing protection against mechanical damage and ensuring the longevity of the installation Crucially, the SCL Busbar Chamber range has been designed and manufactured to meet the BS EN 61439-1 standard, offering reassurance of compliance with UK and international electrical safety regulations. A full range of compatible busbar clamps is also available, making it easier to create secure, dependable connections to incoming and outgoing circuits

CED ELECTRICAL Axiom RCD Protected Wiring Accessories

The Axiom Wiring Accessory range features a wide range of 13 A RCD protected sockets, plugs and in line connectors offering excellent short circuit and earth leakage protection. Single and twin RCD sockets are available either unswitched or 30 mA switched, with moulded versions across the range and metal clad options on switched sockets A single RCD spur is also available Manufactured to BS 7288 standards these RCD sockets are suitable for 13 A domestic and commercial applications With 30 mA sensitivity they respond to DC pulsating earth current faults and trip instantaneously Whilst clearly RCD protected sockets are the prime core of this Axiom range, the same protection is also available on 13 A plug-in adaptors, 3-pin plug tops and in-line connectors These BS 7091 approved items offer protection on day-to-day products such as lawnmowers, drills, hedge cutters, water pumps, electric fires etc. Quality is assured with the BS as well as CE and UKCA approvals.

CAUGHT ON VIDEOCAMERA

THORN LIGHTING CETUS3 LED DOWNLIGHT –

ELECTRICIAN'S

REVIEW

In this video Jensen from GRM Electrical takes a closer look at Thorn Lighting Cetus3 LED Downlights See what he thinks of these high quality ﬁxtures that are packed with features, plus you’ll get a closer look at how easy they are to install and how the emergency mode works in practice.

WATC H T H E V I D E O

Q ACOUSTICS E300A SYSTEM –INSTALL & REVIEW

In this video Adam Stears from SOTA Electrical tells us more about whether the Q Acoustics E300A System was really music to ears Adam gives his honest thoughts on this Wi-Fi-enabled, in-ceiling-installed sound system as well as showing us how simple it really is to install

WATC H

BEHIND THE SCENES AT C-TEC

PE’s very own Richard Bowler recently sat down with C-TEC’s Marketing Director, Andy Green to discuss what installers need to know about the future of fire safety systems The pair also chat about the company’s evolution, the support and training offered to installers, and how C-TEC’s manufacturing expertise allows electricians to install with confidence

SCANGRIP LIGHTING RANGE –PRODUCT REVIEW

With a whole host of lighting solutions at his ﬁngertips, Adam Stears of SOTA Electrical sheds some light on the SCANGRIP lighting range from Hultafors Tools Find out more about what he thinks of these innovative work light options, where they’re best used and how they help him save time on the job

WATC H T H E V I D E O AT:

LEDVANCE GEN 4 FLOODLIGHTS –ELECTRICIAN’S REVIEW

In this video Kyle Gamble puts the new Ledvance Gen 4 Floodlights through their paces See what Kyle makes of these feature-packed ﬂoodlights and how they perform in the real world as he replaces two existing ﬂoodlights at his unit

WATC

IDEAL INDUSTRIES KIT – ON-SITE WITH RESIDUAL CURRENT

We’re on-site with Mike Page from Residual Current as we ﬁnd out if the Ideal Industries range of products can help him resolve a wide spectrum of electrical faults at a domestic property. Discover what Mike thinks of everything from push connectors to data kits

C AM E RA CAUGHT ON

ANDY DOWD: I WAS ASKED TO TAKE A LOOK AT A CAR CHARGER THAT HAD RECENTLY BEEN INSTALLED BY SOMEONE ELSE, BUT WAS NOT CHARGING CORRECTLY THE CUSTOMER SAID THE ORIGINAL ELECTRICIAN COULDN’T BE CONTACTED. I WONDER WHY??!

KAREN BOOM: A COUPLE OF SNAPS FROM MY FRIEND’S NEW BATHROOM! IT’S MESSING WITH MY OCD AND PRETTY MUCH EVERY NERVE ENDING IN MY BODY. ON A POSITIVE NOTE – IT WORKS!

SOCIAL

DENNIS FINK: MY FOUR YEAR-OLD GRANDSON PULLED THIS OUT OF THE SOCKET BUT THE MAIN PART STAYED CONNECTED HE THEN SHOCKED HIMSELF ON THE TWO LIVE PINS ASSEMBLY PARTS NOT BONDED TOGETHER CE? I THINK NOT!

NICK BLAKELEY: I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT WHEN I SWITCHED ON MY TELEVISION TO WATCH A WELL-KNOWN WEEKLY SHOW, ONLY TO BE GREETED WITH THIS IF YOU LOOK CAREFULLY AT THE SOCKETS YOU WILL SEE AN EARTH PIN STUCK IN THE ONE SOCKET, WHICH IS THEN LEAVING THE SHUTTERS OPEN INCREDIBLY, THIS EXTENSION LEAD WAS BEING USED OUTSIDE WHILST BEING USED TO POWER A SANDER!

ADVERTISER INDEX

Here is a useful summary of all the adverts that appear in this issue of Professional Electrician. Each is listed with its page number and a direct URL that will get you straight to the relevant online information.

ALL LED Ltd .....................................................................inside front cover

www.rdr.link/EBQ100

ATC Electrical .....................................................................................page 51

www.rdr.link/EBQ101

Aurora Ltd ............................................................................................page 61

www.rdr.link/EBQ102

BUNKER .................................................................................................page 42

www.rdr.link/EBQ103

Carl Kammerling International Ltd ......................................page 45

www.rdr.link/EBQ104

Castline Systems ............................................................................page 113

www.rdr.link/EBQ105

CED Electrical Group ......................................................................page 38

www.rdr.link/EBQ106

CGC Group UK Ltd ............................................................................page 84

www.rdr.link/EBQ107

Chauvin Arnoux UK Ltd ................................................................page 58

www.rdr.link/EBQ108

CHUMPFix ..........................................................................................page 121

www.rdr.link/EBQ109

Collingwood Lighting Ltd ............................................................page 89

www.rdr.link/EBQ110

Connexbox Ltd ...............................................................inside back cover

www.rdr.link/EBQ111

C-TEC Ltd ..........................................................................................pages 6, 7

www.rdr.link/EBQ112

C-TEC Ltd ...............................................................................................page 55

www.rdr.link/EBQ113

CTEK Sweden AB ..............................................................................page 51

www.rdr.link/EBQ114

Deta Electrical Company Ltd .....................................................page 21

www.rdr.link/EBQ115

Deta Electrical Company Ltd .....................................................page 29

www.rdr.link/EBQ116

Domus Ventilation ........................................................................page 102

www.rdr.link/EBQ117

Electrical Contractors Association (ECA) ...........................page 18

www.rdr.link/EBQ118

Electrorad UK Ltd ............................................................................page 11

www.rdr.link/EBQ119

ELEX ......................................................................................................page 114

www.rdr.link/EBQ120

Elite Security Products Ltd ......................................................page 108

www.rdr.link/EBQ121

Enkin .......................................................................................................page 66

www.rdr.link/EBQ122

Forum Lighting Solutions Ltd ...................................................page 91

www.rdr.link/EBQ123

GivEnergy ...........................................................................................page 102

www.rdr.link/EBQ124

Hager Ltd .................................................................................................page 4

www.rdr.link/EBQ125

Hoyles Electronic Developments Ltd ...................................page 14

www.rdr.link/EBQ126

IDEAL INDUSTRIES EMEA ............................................................page 30

www.rdr.link/EBQ127

Integral Memory plc .......................................................................page 70

www.rdr.link/EBQ128

Knipex Tools UK Ltd .......................................................................page 98

www.rdr.link/EBQ129

Lawson Fuses Ltd ..........................................................................page 108

www.rdr.link/EBQ130

Ledlite ..................................................................................................page 123

www.rdr.link/EBQ131

LEDVANCE Ltd ....................................................................................page 83

www.rdr.link/EBQ132

Lithe Audio Ltd ..................................................................................page 97

www.rdr.link/EBQ133

Luceco Group ......................................................................................page 81

www.rdr.link/EBQ134

M2 Electrical .......................................................................................page 77 www.rdr.link/EBQ135

Megger Ltd ...........................................................................................page 26 www.rdr.link/EBQ136

Metrel UK Ltd .....................................................................................page 57 www.rdr.link/EBQ137

Metway Electrical Industries Ltd ............................................page 22 www.rdr.link/EBQ138

ML Accessories Ltd ..........................................................................page 73 www.rdr.link/EBQ139

ML Accessories Ltd ..........................................................................page 95 www.rdr.link/EBQ140

NetXL Distribution Ltd ...........................................outside back cover www.rdr.link/EBQ141

Niglon Ltd .............................................................................................page 98 www.rdr.link/EBQ142

NVC Lighting ........................................................................................page 74 www.rdr.link/EBQ143

Ovia Lighting .......................................................................................page 78 www.rdr.link/EBQ144

Powered Now .....................................................................................page 57 www.rdr.link/EBQ145

ROBUS ........................................................................................................page 8 www.rdr.link/EBQ146

Rointe ......................................................................................................page 25 www.rdr.link/EBQ147

Rolec Services Ltd ............................................................................page 35 www.rdr.link/EBQ148

Saxby Lighting ....................................................................................page 15 www.rdr.link/EBQ149

Schneider Electric ............................................................................page 52 www.rdr.link/EBQ150

Scolmore International Ltd ........................................................page 93 www.rdr.link/EBQ151

Scolmore International Ltd .....................................................page 113 www.rdr.link/EBQ152

Selectric .................................................................................................page 13 www.rdr.link/EBQ153

Sevadis ...................................................................................................page 41 www.rdr.link/EBQ154

SONEL S.A. .............................................................................................page 47 www.rdr.link/EBQ155

Spurlok ................................................................................................page 123 www.rdr.link/EBQ156

Systeq Ltd .............................................................................................page 78 www.rdr.link/EBQ157

theben .....................................................................................................page 69 www.rdr.link/EBQ158

The Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) ....page 52 www.rdr.link/EBQ159

The L.S. Starrett Company Ltd ...............................................page 105 www.rdr.link/EBQ160

UNICRIMP Ltd ..................................................................................page 119 www.rdr.link/EBQ161

UNILITE Ltd .........................................................................................page 84 www.rdr.link/EBQ162

WISKA UK Ltd ..................................................................................page 121 www.rdr.link/EBQ163

XS Training Ltd ..................................................................................page 58 www.rdr.link/EBQ164

Zzeus Training Ltd ..........................................................................page 48 www.rdr.link/EBQ165