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November Newsletter 2019

November 20, 2019/9,733 Comments/in Newsletter /by Dean Kennedy

November 2019 Newsletter

‘Fluke offers a kit solution for testing EV charging stations, Why it’s never too early to prepare for the winter freeze, Rydon secures £100m London council estate rebuild, Kayak on standby to rescue Stepnell workers at canal site’.

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Fluke offers a kit solution for testing EV charging stations

Fluke and Beha-Amprobe have introduced a kit offering comprehensive testing of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.

Saving money versus buying the units separately, the installation tester/adapter kit provides access to the socket-outlets of vehicle charging stations to perform safety and functional tests, while simulating the presence of an electrical vehicle as required to be able to measure outputs. More information can be found at authorised Fluke distributors.

The market for EV charging stations is growing rapidly. By introducing installation tester/adapter kits, Fluke offers a solution for testing EV charging stations. They are ideal for electricians, electrical utilities and EV maintenance companies for safety testing, functional testing and troubleshooting/repair of charging stations.

The new 1664 UK-EV kit includes a Fluke 1664 FC multifunction installation tester and a Beha-Amprobe EV-520-UK EV charging station test adapter. The EV-520-UK is designed to give access to the socket-outlets of vehicle charging stations to perform safety and functional tests while simulating the presence of an electrical vehicle. The unit is designed to test function and safety of charging stations mode 3 for AC charging in combination with a Fluke 1664 FC.

Main features and functions of the test adapter:

Suitable for vehicle charging stations with charging mode 3
EV-connectors for type 2 and type 1
PE Pre-Test – to test the PE conductor for possible presence of dangerous voltage against earth
Proximity Pilot (PP) state ‘Cable Simulation’ – enables simulation of various current capabilities of the charging cables
Control Pilot (CP) state ‘Vehicle Simulation’ – enables various charging states to be simulated
Separate phase indication – to check voltage is present
Installation tester safety and functional tests using L1, L2, L3, N and PE measuring terminals enable connection of the installation tester
Electric power meter check – a mains socket allows an external load to be connected to check the power meter works and counts correctly
Simulations of CP and PE errors
Terminals for CP signal output to check communication between adapter and charging stations

The kit also includes an EVC-20 test cable with connector for the more common charging stations type 2 (while a Type 1-EVC-13 is also available separately). This easy-to-use connector combines both ‘socket outlet’ as well as ‘fixed cable with vehicle connector’ options in one. The test adapter is also available as a standalone unit.

Fluke offers a kit solution for testing EV charging stations

Source: Electrical Contracting News

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Plumbers gained 3.6% rise in earnings for October, just behind electricians

Earnings for self-employed plumbers rose by 3.6% last month, according to the latest figures released by Hudson Contract.

Analysis of October payroll data for more than 2,200 construction companies in England and Wales reveals a weekly average of £1,119 for plumbing contractors.

They generated the third-highest earnings of all 17 construction trades covered by Hudson Contract, beaten only by specialists in shop fitting and electrical work.

Plumbers in Yorkshire and the Humber saw the strongest growth in weekly earnings in October, rising 24.2% to £802. They were followed by the West Midlands, up 12.4% to £1,110, and London, up 11% to £1,099.

Ian Anfield, Managing Director of Hudson Contract, said: “Plumbers are in strong demand, which is driving up the earning power of highly skilled freelancers. Our analysis shows they are able to command a substantial premium for their valuable services.”

Hudson Contract provides an indication of sub-contractor pay trends across the construction industry, using payroll data to publish the average pay for a spectrum of 17 different trades split across 10 regions in England and Wales.

Plumbers gained 3.6% rise in earnings for October, just behind electricians

Source: HVP Magazine

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Scottish electricians raise over £5,000 for electrical industry charity

More than £5,000 has been raised by Scottish electricians SELECT, the trade body for electrical professionals in Scotland, for the UK’s leading charity devoted to those working within the industry – Electrical Industries Charity. A charity which provides practical support services and financial relief to the 1.3 million people who work throughout the UK in the sectors relating to energy and electrical.

Over the last year, the Electrical Industries Charity gave out more than £400,500 in direct financial assistance, as well as providing more than 7,400 people with non-financial support.

The majority of the money that is raised for SELECT came through the annual SELECT Awards which were held earlier this month (October) in Glasgow. Over 350 people got together at the Raddison Blu hotel in order to help pay tribute to the leading talent within the Scottish sector. The awards this year, were hosted by the radio and tv personality Shereen Nanjiani and was though to be the biggest ceremony to date, raising more than £3,000 in their charity raffle and saw three lucky winners walking away with some wonderful prizes.

SELECT President Kevin Griffin states that, “The support from Scotland for the EIC’s great work has been amazing, and reflects the valued place this charity holds within our sector.”

At the beginning of June, SELECT held a Predidents walk which took place at Chatelherault Park in Hamilton and saw more than 50 walker taking on the 5-mile Green Bridge Trail. This event was dedicated to Jim McArthur, a past SELECT president and the former chairmen of the Lanarkshire Branch, who sadly passed away last year.

A Teddy Bear’s picnic was held later in June, and brought together the organisation’s staff members and their families for a fun filled day, including face painting, games and entertainment. At this event the charity managed to raise a further £500 for the EIC.

“Set up at a time when charities were in their infancy and safety nets such as unemployment benefits, state pensions and a national health service had yet to be thought of, the EIC has been providing assistance for more than 100 years to industry colleagues who have fallen upon hard times. The wide variety of services on offer from the EIC have been a major component in creating and maintaining the thriving industry which we work in today.” explained Kevin Griffin.

As well as financial assistance, the Electrical Industries Charity also provides counselling over the phone, advice for those in debt along with support for carers, scholarships and bursary schemes, as well as legal and career transition advice. All of which are free and confidential and open to those who currently work or have previously worked in the electrical industry.

Tess Ogle, managing director and CEO of the EIC, said: “We are extremely grateful to SELECT for their continued support. Thanks to their many ongoing events, and the generosity of their staff and members, we are able to continue our vital work, helping electrical workers and their families throughout the industry.”

For more information please visit https://www.select.org.uk

Scottish electricians raise over £5,000 for electrical industry charity

Source: Electrical Trade Magazine

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Nominations open for Gas Industry Awards 2020

Nominations for the Gas Industry Awards have now opened.

The Gas Industry Awards, organised by the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) and the Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA), recognises the contribution of the gas industry’s most innovative, dedicated and outstanding members.

This year’s awards feature 10 categories, including a Customer Service Award and Engineer of the Year prize.

The closing date for nominations has been set for 2 March. Enter by visiting https://gasindustryawards.awardsplatform.com/

Nominations open for Gas Industry Awards 2020

Source: HPM Magazine

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Rydon secures £100m London council estate rebuild

A west London council has signed up Rydon to deliver a £100m estate rebuild to create over 460 homes.

Ealing Borough Council has announced that it has formally appointed Rydon as its development partner to rebuild the High Lane estate in Hanwell after run-up talks of over two years.

The 264-home estate was constructed in the 1970s using a Bison large panel system.

Under the deal, Rydon will secure scheme financing, produce development proposals, submit planning and then demolish and build the new homes over three phases.

A full planning application is due to be submitted in March 2020. Of the planned new homes around 242 will be private sale, with 137 for social rent and 71 London affordable rent. The will also be 10 shared equity homes for existing leaseholders.

The project will take around eight years to complete.

Rydon has previously partnered with the council and A2Dominion on the £155m redevelopment of Green Man Lane social housing estate.

Rydon secures £100m London council estate rebuild

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Weston and Tesco submit plan to turn store site into 1,280 homes

Weston Homes and Tesco have submitted ambitious plans to redevelop a supermarket and car park in east London with a major mixed-use development.

The redevelopment of the 10.4 acre Tesco store site in Goodmayes near Romford will consist of 1,280 new homes, a new Tesco store, village hall, 3-form primary school, commercial space and 7.9 acres of landscaped grounds.

The new Tesco will be equivalent in size to the current store and will be built in the current car park whilst the existing store remains open with a temporary car parking arrangement.

Once the new store is complete and open, the old store will be closed and demolished.

Weston Homes has slightly scaled-down its original plan to build 1,400 homes, lowered heights of several buildings and revised the design of the main landmark tower to make it more slender, thereby reducing the visual impact.

The new development proposals submitted to Redbridge Borough Council will also allow for highway improvement works in the High Road including a new bus lane, widening the highway, enhanced pedestrian and cycle access, and a new pedestrian crossing to Barley Lane Recreation Ground.

Weston and Tesco submit plan to turn store site into 1,280 homes

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Caddick to build £50m Wakefield industrial park

Yorkshire-based Caddick Construction will build a £50m distribution centre near Wakefield, Yorkshire for global real estate investment manager AEW.

AEW will buy the site from Caddick Group and fund the development for its recently launched €290m develop-to-core UK logistics venture with Allianz.

Caddick Construction will start the speculative 512,000 sq. ft. facility – now named Wakefield 515 – in the first quarter of 2020.

Wakefield 515, previously known as Crosspoint 33 phase two, will sit next to the already completed Cross Point 33 phase one, a £100m 1.2m sq. ft. distribution centre for TK Maxx.

Caddick Construction built Crosspoint 33 phase one and is currently working on a host of other industrial and logistics schemes, such as the £10.7m Novus Business Park in Knutsford, for Chancerygate.

Located at Junction 33 on the M62 motorway, work will start on Wakefield 515 early next year.

The building is due to be delivered by the last quarter of next year.

Caddick to build £50m Wakefield industrial park

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Industrial digital multimeter for extreme conditions

The Fluke 87V Max true-rms Digital Multimeter (DMM) defines a new standard for operating in extreme conditions, with the features and accuracy to troubleshoot most electrical problems.

A development of the Fluke 87V, the 87V Max is ideal for use in harsh environments with an IP 67 (waterproof and dustproof) rating, an extended operating temperature range of -15°C to +55°C (-40°C for up to 20 minutes) and up to 95% humidity, and has been designed and tested to withstand a 4 metre drop in its removable holster. It offers Cat III 1000V, Cat IV 600V safety ratings.

The Fluke 87V Max will measure up to 1000V AC/DC and up to 10A AC/DC (20A for 30 seconds), with true-rms AC voltage and current readings for accurate measurements on non-linear signals. It also offers a capacitance range of 10,000μF, measures frequency to 200kHz, and can capture min/max/average recordings, plus 150μs peak min-max to capture variations automatically. It also features a built-in thermometer, which conveniently allows temperature readings without having to carry a separate instrument. This offers an easy check whether overheating is involved in a system breakdown.

The 87V Max true-rms digital multimeter provides the resolution and accuracy to efficiently troubleshoot motor drives, plant automation, power distribution, and electromechanical equipment even in loud, high energy, and high altitude locations. It takes the guesswork out of drive system troubleshooting. It includes a unique function for accurately measuring noisy signals at the variable frequency drive and at the motor terminals: special shielding blocks high frequency, high-energy noise generated by large drive systems. It correctly measures pulse-width modulated motor drive signals.

Other product highlights:

Resistance, continuity and diode test
Relative mode to remove test lead resistance from low ohms measurements
Large display digits, two-level bright white backlight and backlit keypad buttons for increased visibility
High resolution 20,000 count display mode
Battery life doubled (up to 800 hours)
Reversible holster for added protection when not in use

The Fluke 87V Max comes with a Fluke 80BK-A DMM temperature probe and is also available as part of a money-saving kit – the 87V Max/E2 combo kit – which includes a ToolPak magnetic meter hanging kit, TL224 SureGrip insulated test leads, AC220 SureGrip alligator clips, TL238 SureGrip test probes and a soft carry case.

For more information about all Fluke products, visit www.fluke.co.uk.

Industrial digital multimeter for extreme conditions

Source: Electrical Contracting News

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Elta Fans launches ventilation compliance campaign

Ventilation manufacturer Elta Fans has launched a new campaign to raise awareness of ErP compliance responsibilities relating to certain ventilation products.

The manufacturer is asking contractors and distributors who sell or install roof-mounted ventilation solutions to answer a short series of online questions, with the aim of revealing the differing levels of awareness around compliance across the UK.

The issue has originated from Elta Fans’ own customer insights which highlights that many professionals are unknowingly operating as ‘manufacturers’, and are therefore making themselves responsible for ensuring ErP compliance.

While compliance is mandatory, the company is also advocating that in being compliant, a building is also delivering a higher quality of air – a topic which could not be more pertinent given recent governmental initiatives.

David Millward, Product Manager at Elta Group, said: “Legislation affects us all and we know it can be hard to keep up with all of the technicalities, but we find that not everyone is aware of their responsibilities. We hope this survey will offer some clarity for those who are unsure or, more importantly, those completely unaware.”

To answer the survey, visit: www.eltafans.com/erp-warning/.

Elta Fans launches ventilation compliance campaign

Source: HVP Magazine

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How to stay healthy on the go as an electrician

Many people struggle to find enough time to stay healthy while juggling the demands of modern life. It is particularly difficult for someone who is often on the road, going from appointment to appointment.

With 66% of men and 57% of women being classed as overweight or obese and 74% of people having felt ‘overwhelmed or unable to cope’ at some point during the year, it is increasingly important that we look after both our physical and mental health.

Here, electrical wholesaler TradeSparky offers its top tips for managing your diet and stress levels on the go.

Lunch to go

One of the best ways to make improvements to your diet is to stop grabbing processed foods on the go, and preparing lunches and snacks at home from scratch instead. The two main barriers to achieving this are:

the time it takes to prep food on a daily basis
finding nice, healthy meals that don’t require a hob or microwave

Try preparing meals in bulk – things that will last a couple of days or can be frozen. It can be difficult to think of lunches that don’t require heating (sandwich, salad…yawn!) but with a little bit of research online, you can gather enough recipes for lunches that you will happily eat on a weekly basis.

One other factor to consider is portion control. This is probably the main reason why most diets fail. Even if ‘good’ foods are being consumed, if too much is being eaten, you will still put on weight.

By making your own meals, it is possible to measure exactly how much food is going in and how much each meal is contributing to your daily intake. Free smartphone apps such as ‘My Fitness Pal’ can really help with this. On the odd day when lunch is grabbed on the fly, the barcode can be scanned and all the relevant nutritional information will be added.

At a stretch

Exercise is good for both our physical and mental health and the secret to incorporating it into a busy schedule is (drum roll)… getting it out of the way early. Yes, it is horrendous dragging yourself out of bed that bit earlier, but once it’s done, the endorphins are flowing and you are ready for the day ahead.

It doesn’t even have to take a long time, either. There are plenty of 20-minute high-intensity training (HIT) routines online that can be done at home while Piers Morgan rants away on the telly. There are even free phone apps such as ‘Seconds’ that will help time your intervals.

If you really aren’t a morning person and the only thing you want to do after a long days’ work is flop on the coach, then try and incorporate something into your daily routine. If you have an appointment where little equipment is required, allow enough time to park the van 10 minutes away from the location and walk. It may not seem like very much, but it all adds up over time.

And sleep

Having enough ‘quality’ sleep will help improve performance and decrease stress levels while on the job. Of course both diet and exercise contribute to the quality of your sleep, but allowing the time for enough ZZZs is also important.

The average adult needs between seven and nine hours of sleep a night to function properly. The benefits of doing so include improvement in mood, maintaining a healthy weight and a sharpening of concentration.

However, allocating enough time during the night for bed isn’t enough, especially if you are going to spend most of the time tossing and turning. Best practices to maximise the chances of a good night’s sleep include going to bed and waking up at a set time, establishing a relaxing routine leading up to bed and ideally avoiding eating after 7pm. The latter will help with both weight loss and your ability to sleep.

Keep lubricated

And we’re not talking about alcohol! The average adult should drink about two litres of water a day. Keeping hydrated will not only help you stay alert during appointments, but it will also help with weight loss as water can boost metabolism by up to 30% and stop food cravings.

But drinking the required amount is harder than you might think. To help, water intake can be tracked in the My Fitness Pal app, but there are also apps specifically designed to monitor water consumption, such as Daily Water, and will alert you when you need to take a drink. Just keep a water bottle with you throughout the day. No customer will resent you topping up at their home or office.

How to stay healthy on the go as an electrician

Source: Sparks Magazine

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Why it’s never too early to prepare for the winter freeze
With the clocks changing and the winter weather settling in, many people are starting to plan for the colder months and keeping themselves, and their homes, warm. Karen Sloan, Liberty’s Managing Director – Gas Maintenance, reveals why for the property services sector, it’s never too early to prepare for the winter freeze.

Winter is the busiest time of the year for the property services industry.

But as the cold weather sets in, it is a good opportunity to reflect on the months of planning and preparation our teams put in place to make sure we are ready to provide people focused services that are smart and straightforward.

During the summer months, when many of us were enjoying the sunshine Liberty was well underway with its winter planning programme – training staff, mapping workflows with clients and carrying out work that will prevent problems before they happen.

We’ve learned though years of experience that taking time to prepare when the weather is warm is the smartest way to ensure clients and customers receive the best possible service during the busy winter freeze.

Managing our time

Typically, demand for all property services is lower during the summer. Liberty receive an average of 40% reduction in repairs per day during summer compared to the winter period. During April 2019 – September 2019, this equated to 45,000 fewer repairs, freeing up capacity in teams across the business.

This gives us the time to plan ahead, agreeing processes for prioritising work during winter and ensuring that clients have everything they need to support their tenants at a time when many vulnerable people need their help the most.

We also use the summer months to assess properties with a history of weather-related issues and carry out proactive work to reduce the risk of issues during the peak winter season. This can include re-routing or insulating condensate pipes to protect them form freezing, to completing more annual gas services to make sure customers’ boilers are in the best shape ready for when they’re needed most.

With this forward-thinking approach, we can help prevent unnecessary problems so that customers stay warm and our engineers can priorities workload and focus more time on breakdowns and emergency calls.

Training and upskilling

Summer is also crucial for training and upskilling teams to make sure we’re ready for a cold snap. We do this through the Liberate Academy, our in-house training centre, with over 110 Liberty staff completing training with them in the summer of 2019. It’s the perfect time to undertake cyclical training such as ACS assessment and e-learning, whilst the service demand is lower.

The Liberate Academy ensures our team is always thinking ahead and is at the forefront of the latest developments in our sector.

It ensures that operatives understand the latest legislation, are meeting legal requirements, and are confident in their skills and abilities. This training is continuing to drive standards up, keeping people safe not just during winter, but throughout the year.

By focussing on people, we’re delivering the best possible outcomes for customers and clients.

As well as ensuring we’re ready for winter, the academy provides training which helps to improve the skills base of gas engineers across the country, including apprenticeships for those entering the profession and essential qualifications for more experienced operatives.

Addressing the gender imbalance

We’re committed to increasing diversity in the property services industry. And we’ve also been using the warmer months to increase the work we do to promote balance in the industry.

It’s widely acknowledged that this sector faces challenges in attracting female staff and, like many other organisations in this field of work, we have a much greater number of males than females across our business. Redressing this balance is key to the sector’s sustainability and ensuring we are fit for the future.

We have been doing this in a wide range of ways, including focussing on inclusive and diverse recruitment campaigns which help us recruit from the widest possible talent pool.

Some of the initiatives we have in place include flexible working practices and a robust support system, a Learning and Development team committed to supporting the development of all staff, and developing initiatives which seek to increase the number of women in the industry at all levels.

By working in these ways and planning ahead we’re well prepared to assist clients in providing the most efficient service to their customers, keeping their homes warm no matter the weather this winter brings.

Why it’s never too early to prepare for the winter freeze

Source: Installer Online

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Green light for £125m Birmingham St Paul’s quarter scheme

Joint venture partners Galliard Homes and Apsley House Capital have got the planning go-ahead to create a new neighbourhood in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.

The £125m mixed-use scheme to be known as the St Paul’s Quarter will transform the four-acre AE Harris industrial site with 305 flats and 100,000 sq ft of commercial space across 20 buildings.

Designed by Glenn Howells Architects, the site bounded by Newhall Street, Graham Street and Northwood Street will include a new public square at its centre.

Two grade II listed buildings will be restored to their former glory – 109 Northwood Street, built in 1882 for military ornament makers Brent and Parker and described by Historic England as “internationally significant”, and 199 Newhall Street, a neo-Georgian factory built in the early 20^th century.

A further two derelict buildings – 123 and 128 Northwood Street – will also be salvaged and transformed into new homes.

Stephen Conway, executive chairman of Galliard Homes, said: “Galliard has a track record of restoring listed buildings across London and we are looking forward to bringing this experience to Birmingham.

“123 and 128 Northwood Street have a familiar typology to the Jewellery Quarter, with street frontages concealing rear factory wings.These two buildings reinforce the grain of the area, running north-south.

“It’s therefore right that we respect their heritage and preserve them, despite their lack of listed status.”

Work will start early next year with the development anticipated to take four years to complete.

Green light for £125m Birmingham St Paul’s quarter scheme

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Derwent starts design work on next big London project

London developer Derwent has started design and pre-construction work on its next major West End scheme of nearly 300,000 st ft.

It is aiming to start work on a major mixed-use at Baker Street in 2021 after this morning reporting strong pre-letting activity on schemes under construction in its property pipeline.

Paul Williams, chief executive of Derwent London, said: “Our strong pre-letting activity continues, demonstrating the consistent demand for our product and for London office space.

“In addition we have extended our main revolving credit facility, which includes an innovative green tranche linking the financing of our developments to their environmental impact.”

He added that the delayed former Saatchi building revamp by Multiplex at 80 Charlotte Street W1 was now due to be delivered in the first half of 2020.

Construction work was progressing well at Soho Place W1 and The Featherstone Building EC1 with completion expected in 2022.

The next project at 19-35 Baker Street project will involve 206,000 sq ft offices, 52,000 sq ft residential and 35,000 sq ft retail. Designed by architect Hopkins, it will rise to 10-floors.

“We have started design, pre-construction and procurement work on our 19-35 Baker Street project which is likely to start in 2021”, he confirmed

Derwent starts design work on next big London project

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Kayak on standby to rescue Stepnell workers at canal site

A kayak is on standby at a student accommodation site in Nottingham where Stepnell is facing challenging construction conditions.

The canalside site at Boulevard Wharf is only 11 metres wide.

The contractor’s emergency procedures include a kayak to catch anyone who falls in the water.

And the tight boundaries have made careful site planning vital to build 76 apartments.

Shaun Moses, site manager for Stepnell, said: “It is certainly one of the more unusual sites we’ve worked on.

“Along with the obvious issues that come with building so close to the canal edge brings, the overall site is just 11 metres wide, meaning that day-to-day operations must be very carefully managed.

“With incredibly tight boundaries and the buildings themselves designed to fill the entirety of its footprint, the site is a real challenge, but the team has worked closely with the developers from an early stage to create a solution that is workable and allows the whole operation to run smoothly.”

Tom Sewell, East Midlands’ regional director at Stepnell, said: “The story of this site is really one of collaboration.

“Our team worked extensively with the client through the design development process in order to design and manage a project that met a high standard in terms of appearance and finishes – all while working to the budget and the challenges the site provides.”

The project sees the studios spread across three buildings designed by MAS Architecture.

Kayak on standby to rescue Stepnell workers at canal site

Source: Construction Enquirer

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October Newsletter 2019

October 17, 2019/9,725 Comments/in Newsletter /by Dean Kennedy

October 2019 Newsletter

‘Viessmann launches new 11KW output system boiler, £250m funding for museums and culture projects, UK renewables generate more electricity than fossil fuels for the first time, Contest for £500m decarbonisation framework’.

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Viessmann launches new 11KW output system boiler

Viessmann is introducing what it claims is the UK’s lowest output system boiler as part of its new Vitodens 200 domestic boiler range.

The new 11kW Vitodens 200-W responds to demand from installers for system boilers that closely match the heat demand of the majority of modest-sized, well-insulated homes.

“Not many homes have a heat load of more than 10kW, yet most system boiler ranges start at an output of around 19kW. This means that the majority of system boilers in the UK are oversized,” explains Viessmann Marketing Director, Darren McMahon.

“Homeowners are buying larger boilers than they need and once installed, the boiler cycles more than it needs to, increasing running costs and wear and tear. A correctly-sized boiler will be more efficient and last longer.

“The Vitodens 200-W 11kW model means installers no longer have to ‘range rate’ larger boilers. System boilers can now be fitted where heat-only models may have been chosen previously. The boiler has a higher heat output rating of 17kW for the generation of hot water, so there is no trade-off between space and DHW heat.”

The Viessmann Vitodens 200 gas-condensing boilers are arriving in UK merchants this month. They are available as a wall-hung boiler (Vitodens 200-W) and floor-standing storage boiler (Vitodens 222-F), with outputs from 11kW to 60kW.

Viessmann launches new 11KW output system boiler

Source: HVP Magazine

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UK Construction week survey reveals half of construction industry suffering with mental health issues

The largest event in the history of the UK construction industry to address mental health issues in the sector opens today (Tuesday 8 October), as part of UK Construction Week.

The focus on mental health and wellbeing at this year’s show is in response to the latest research results which paint a picture of an industry that desperately wants more mental health support.

The most recent survey conducted last month on behalf of UK Construction Week revealed that over half of people in the construction industry have suffered mental health problems at one point in their lives.

Six out of 10 people (58%) working in construction have suffered from mental health problems due to their work, most often stemming from financial issues (45%), long hours (41%) and the physical strain of the job (41%). Despite this, only four out of 10 (44%) have actually spoken out about it at work – and this figure rises to 71% for those aged over 55.

Over a third of respondents (37%) admitted that they had taken time off work due to their mental health, with only 64% of those telling their employer the reason why. The problem is particularly acute among the 18-34 age group.

When asked who they would turn to if they were to experience any mental health issues, most construction professionals felt they would be most comfortable talking to a dedicated mental healthcare professional (30%), followed by someone who they get on well with at work (27%). A chat with a friend is considered the most effective mood-booster for a bad day at work, according to respondents (50%), followed by music (46%), exercise (38%) and food (32%).

However, most importantly, over half of all respondents (56%) felt there was more their organisations could be doing to support the mental health of workers. Of the support services that they thought would be most beneficial, top of the list was free counselling (39%) or flexible working (39%), followed by a dedicated trained person to speak to (35%), an on-site quiet space (27%), and an anonymous helpline (24%).

Interestingly, there were differences between men and women in the industry about what was needed most. Women are more likely to prefer allocated wellbeing days (30% vs 17%), an on-site quiet space (34% vs 24%), and flexible working (52% vs 35%) when it comes to tackling their mental health at work. Men are more likely to prefer anonymous helplines (26% vs 21%).

Some of these support services are provided by the mental health charities working in the construction industry, including Mates in Mind and the Lighthouse Club’s Construction Industry Helpline.

Nathan Garnett, event director at UK Construction Week, said: “Awareness about the importance of mental health has grown throughout the construction industry in recent years. However, the industry still has a way to go in normalising open discussion about this aspect of health and wellbeing. That’s why we put together the Wellbeing Zone at this year’s UK Construction Week. We’re using the country’s largest construction event to host the industry’s biggest discussion and support initiative on mental health, swapping hard hats for hard chats. Through signposting to counselling, free employer advice and the simple sharing of stories, right through to yoga and meditation sessions, exercise and sporting challenges, this year’s UK Construction Week is designed to help as many people as possible, culminating on Thursday 10 October to celebrate World Mental Health Day.”

Wellbeing features at UK Construction Week include:

An installation of relaxing swings made by master craftsman Carwyn Jones, in a Wellbeing Zone full of advice and information on mental health support run in association with the NHS’s new Every Mind Matters initiative.

The launch of the Mind Your Head campaign, which features a ‘Material Support’ gallery, a collection of artwork made from construction components. There will be mental health experts who work in construction and practical advice available from an onsite therapist.

A multi-sports tournament and cup involving football, netball and touch rugby, organised with STEAM, a mental health charity which promotes wellbeing in construction through sport and exercise.

Free yoga and meditation sessions every morning of the show.

Free advice workshops for employers in the Working Well Together Theatre , including sessions on how to manage the issue of alcohol and drugs effectively in the workplace and mental health in the workplace – an industry perspective.

UK Construction Week (UKCW) finishes on 10 October, which is World Mental Health Day, so the theme runs strongly throughout the three days.

UKCW is one event with many sections, including Build sponsored by Easy-Trim, Building Tech, Civils, Energy and HVAC, Surface and Materials, and Timber. It also features Concrete Expo (8-9 October only) and Grand Designs Live (9-10 October only). Single registration gives free access to all areas of the show.

UK Construction week survey reveals half of construction industry suffering with mental health issues

Source: Electrical Contracting News

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Flamco unveils greener generation of products

Flamco unveiled its Flexcon Premium range of expansion vessels during a launch event at London’s Shard building this week.

The new range, in a variety of sizes, benefits from a new plastic membrane offering raw materials and energy savings, with a 15-year guarantee.

Flamco has developed the membrane for expansion vessels of 2 to 80 litres. It has replaced the vessels’ rubber membrane with a plastic membrane made of thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) without losing flexibility and permeability properties.

TPO can also be burned or recycled more efficiently into other products of the same quality.

The new membrane is much lighter, because it requires up to 50% less material. This saves raw materials, energy and fuel for transport and results in a large reduction of CO2 emissions, a statement said, while packaging has also been reduced. “With this holistic approach, Flamco has taken a big step towards an even smaller ecological footprint,” it added.

Also during the event, Flamco technical director Rob Clemson, pictured, provided an update on the XStream series of air and dirt separators, launched at the ISH exhibition earlier this year. Sold with a 15-year guarantee, they have integrated insulation and can be rotated for either horizontal or vertical fitting.

Flamco unveils greener generation of products

Source: HPM Magazine

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Bureau Veritas issues direct current warning on RCDs

With the 18^th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations including updated guidance on the use of various types of residual current devices (RCDs), Bureau Veritas is warning that a rising number of AC type RCDs are being adversely affected by direct currents (DC) from electronic devices and renewable energy sources.

It comes amid the growing use of RCDs over the years, with AC type RCDs often promoted as the first choice, particularly since 2001 where the 17^th Edition (amendment one) directly stated that AC type RCDs should be used for sockets that might supply outdoor equipment.

However, according to electrical safety expert, Bureau Veritas, as more and more homes, commercial and industrial sites are now using electronic equipment and installing renewables such as solar PV, many of these RCDs may well be not fit for purpose – putting an increasing number of people at risk.

Michael Kenyon, Technical Manager at Bureau Veritas, explains, “Modern electrical installations are now, more than ever, incorporating technologies and products that manipulate the current wave forms. These devices such as Solar PV and electric vehicle chargers could be leaking (direct current) back into the electrical system and saturating the iron core of the AC type RCDs which are not designed to handle it.

“This is a particular problem when dealing with poor quality electronic equipment or substandard installations, as DC leakage current can be created by faulty equipment such as solar PV, EV chargers, variable speed drives, and even faulty mobile phone chargers or USB sockets. Inevitably, we’re seeing RCDs being increasingly affected by DC – putting many people at risk.”

As an independent electrical specialist, Bureau Veritas suggests the industry, instead, looks at using A or B type RCDs that are specifically designed to offer protection against alternating and pulsating direct – as stated in the recent rewrite of 531.3 of BS7671.

Kenyon continues, “The rewrite of 531.3 has certainly led to an increased awareness of the different type of RCDs on the market. But in terms of promoting best practice, at the moment, it just doesn’t go far enough in recommending the use of A type RCDs. In fact, regulation (531.3.3) still states that for general purposes, type AC RCDs should be used coupled with disincentive that type A RCDs are still much less readily available.

“From our experience, we’d recommend A type RCDs for general use, although going forward this will need to be supported by regulation, the industry and even manufacturers, as nine out of 10 devices found online were still AC type and the A type devices remain significantly more expensive.

“Specifying the correct RCDs can be a technical and complicated area, and currently there’s a knowledge gap within the electrical industry about the risks of using AC type RCDs in modern installations. That’s why it’s important, now more than ever, to ensure every electrical installation is safe and fit for use – and the best way to do this is through regular testing and inspection.”

Bureau Veritas offers a range of testing and certification services to support customers in managing compliance around electrical safety in general for new and existing installations or for specific areas, such as electric vehicle charging points.

Bureau Veritas issues direct current warning on RCDs

Source: Electrical Contracting News

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£250m funding for museums and cultural projects

Cultural projects, libraries, museums and creative industries will get a £250m to deliver expansion projects over the next five years.

York’s National Railway Museum is among the biggest immediate winner. It will receive £18.6m to kickstart £50m transformation plans, including new gallery and exhibition spaces and the restoration of heritage buildings.

The museum will become the cultural hub of vast York Central redevelopment creating up to 2,500 new homes.

Judith McNicol, Director of the National Railway Museum, said: “This is wonderful news for the National Railway Museum – and for the City of York. This £18.6m investment by the Government is an extremely significant milestone in realising our £55m Vision 2025 campaign to turn our museum into a truly world-class attraction.

Coventry also gets an extra £7m to fund its 2021 UK City of Culture programme that will unlock £37m of extra funding and over £107m of tourism impacts.

Elsewhere, £125m will be invested in regional museums and libraries around the country.

More than £90m will be provided to extend the Cultural Development Fund which uses investment in heritage, culture and creativity to drive regeneration and growth.

£250m funding for museums and cultural projects

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Middlesbrough plans £250m trio of skyscrapers

Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston has unveiled plans to create a £250m digital city in the city’s Boho district.

The plans include building the highest office and residential towers for 30 miles as part of an initial £45m phase of the project that will transform Teesside’s skyline.

Construction of the first phase, which will include three 20 storey-towers, will start next summer and create up to 400 construction jobs.

It will see the creation of a digital campus, a 750-seat indoor amphitheatre beneath a glass atrium and a 400-seat outdoor amphitheatre to host events such as lectures, cultural events and entertainment.

Mayor Preston said: “For the next few years my obsession, my mission, my purpose on this planet is to get Middlesbrough on track as the digital city for the UK.

“This is a £45m first step of a quarter of a billion pounds scheme that will propel Middlesbrough on a journey to become the UK’s digital capital – bringing investment, jobs and prosperity to the town.

“This isn’t another pipe dream that might happen in two, four or ten years’ time. This is happening now.

“We have the money and investors in place. Planning consent will be sought within weeks and construction will start next summer.”

The £30m office element is being joint funded by the Tees Valley Combined Authority and Middlesbrough Council.

This includes £26.5m from the Combined Authority’s £588m Investment Plan which was agreed earlier this year and sets out a ten-year vision to transform the region.

The council will contribute £3.5m, with a further £15m investment in residential accommodation by a third party consortium.

Middlesbrough plans £250m trio of skyscrapers

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Contest for £500m decarbonisation framework

Procurement group Fusion 21 is on the hunt for firms for its latest generation national heating and renewables framework.

With a predicted £500m work pipeline over four years, a new lot has been developed with the Department for Education to support schools, academies and colleges with their heating requirements.

The 10-lot framework will select firms offering domestic and commercial solutions as well as offering a range of services from consultancy to design, servicing, maintenance and installation.

The framework also includes a selection of renewable technology applications from air and ground source heat pumps to solar thermal, electric heating and hot water systems.

The commercial element will target district heating systems and the installation/ servicing of heat interface units.

Providing regional coverage, the framework has been structured to open doors to SMEs, enabling suppliers to bid for works suited to their experience and expertise.

Peter Francis, director of operations at Fusion21, said: “With the use of renewable technologies on the rise and a government target to deliver decarbonisation – this framework will also support members to install a range of sustainable heating solutions tailored to their requirements.”

Interest firms can find prequal informatiom on the mytenders web portal under Notice ID OCT158374.

The framework will come into force from the start of 2020.

To date Fusion21 has saved clients an estimated £225m through the procurement process, created 6,500 jobs and generated more than £80m of social impact.

Contest for £500m decarbonisation framework

Source: Construction Enquirer

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At what temperatures does the heating go on?

A new study from intelligent home climate management company tado° has found that the further north you live, the more likely you are to tolerate both a colder outdoor and indoor temperature. On average, UK householders first turn on their post-summer heating when the outside temperature drops to 13.5°C, but there’s a difference between Southerners, Northerners, and Scots.

The average outdoor temperature needed to get Southern English people to first turn on their thermostat after the summer is 13.5°C. Northerners wait for it to drop to 13°C, while Scots hold out until the temperature falls to just 12.5°C. The average inside temperature at this time is 20.5°C for Southerners, 20°C for Northerners, and 19.5°C for Scots. As of the second week of October, approximately 95% of Brits had switched their heating on since the summer.

It also seems that we like our homes to be cooler than our European neighbours, with the average yearly temperature in UK homes set at 21°C compared to 22°C in Germany and the Netherlands, 22.5°C in France and Sweden, and 23°C in Spain, Italy, and Norway.

At what temperatures does the heating go on?

Source: PHAM News

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UK renewables generate more electricity than fossil fuels for the first time

Energy sector has seen hydrocarbon use halve since 2010 and green sources increase more than fourfold.

UK renewables have generated more electricity than fossil fuels for the first time, according to an analysis of energy use for the third quarter of this year.

Wind farms, solar panels, biomass and hydropower generated 29.5 terawatt hours (TWh) of energy for the months of July, August and September, compared to 29.1TWh from fossil fuels, according to Carbon Brief.

In 2010, 10 times more energy came from burning fossil fuels than renewable energy, but the cost of renewables has tumbled, with onshore wind and solar power frequently cheaper.

This marks the latest milestone in the rapid decarbonisation of the UK’s electricity system.

Dr Simon Evans, deputy editor of Carbon Brief, told The Independent: “The UK has made significant progress in cutting its CO2 emissions over the past decade.

“Almost all of that progress is thanks to the electricity sector, which as our analysis shows has seen fossil fuel generation halve since 2010 and renewables increase more than fourfold.

“Other parts of the economy have made very little progress. The UK will not be able to meet its legally-binding carbon targets in future without emissions cuts in other areas, such as heating and transport,” he said.

This is part of a growing trend and in the first three quarters of this year, renewables did better than fossil fuels on 103 out of 273 of the days.

However, despite huge success in the electricity sector, other parts of the economy have made little progress in reducing emissions.

Last year 6.8tns of greenhouse gases were emitted per person and by 2050 this will need to have dropped to zero.

The Committee on Climate Change’s (CCC) annual report to parliament showed UK action to slash greenhouse gas emissions driving climate change is lagging far behind what is needed.

BEIS was awarded £30m extra in the latest spending round to “accelerate progress” on decarbonisation projects next year.

However, this was just 0.1 per cent of what is required, according to Britain’s biggest environmental groups, including Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth.

UK renewables generate more electricity than fossil fuels for the first time

Source: The Independent

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Changes to benchmark commissioning checklist

The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) – in partnership with major boiler manufacturers, installers and representatives from across the supply chain – have revisited the Benchmark scheme to update the commissioning checklist, taking it into 2020 and beyond.

Launched in 1999, the Benchmark scheme is designed to promote quality for the installation, commissioning and servicing of domestic heating and hot water systems. The scheme has been updated to reflect modern day best practice, standards and legislation.

Commenting on the changes, HHIC director Stewart Clements, says: “As a result, there are a few changes you will notice now appearing on recently printed Checklist forms in order to make it more relevant and also to offer further improvements to the overall efficiency of the Benchmark system.

“Completing the Benchmark Checklist is already a means of meeting the commissioning requirements within Part L of the Building Regulations, and embracing Benchmark is the most straightforward way to help make sure you comply, as the documentation is already supplied with the appliance.

“To help make completing the checklist even easier, HHIC are currently investigating whether or not it is possible and feasible to move the form online. This would mean that installers would be able to simply complete the checklist at the same time as registering the installation with Gas Safe, across different manufacturer brands.”

The online system is currently in the design phase and planned for launch by the end of 2020.

Copies of the new Benchmark Checklists and other scheme documents can be found with the installation instructions supplied with products, or it can be seen by visiting www.hhic.org.uk/resources.

Changes to benchmark commissioning checklist

Source: PHAM News

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18th Edition – Is it fit for purpose?

Almost a year has passed since the latest update was made to the 18^th Edition regulations. However, questions remain as to whether the regulations are still fit for purpose and of value to modern electricians, particularly those working in industrial environments.

Whilst the updates included refreshed guidance around energy efficiency, approved parts, surge protection and arch fault detection, many of the changes had little relevance for electricians in the field and were aimed more at systems designers.

A large number of the updates detailed in the new regulations, for example, those relating to the installation and application of switchgear, could be considered an attempt to ensure that the new guidance accurately reflects the types of products and technology being used in industrial installations.

Ultimately, the updated 18^th Edition regulations still constitute an essential source of information and guidance in any modern-day electrician’s toolkit. However, they contain a number of grey areas which are open to interpretation. Take, for example, the use of isolators on motors. According to the updated regulations 135.15.202 “Every fixed electric motor shall be provided with an efficient means of switching off readily accessible, easily operated and so placed as to prevent danger”. If this was taken literally, the installations could have potentially hundreds of motors, each with their own point of isolation nearby. In reality, this approach is neither logical nor feasible.

The regulation does however give the designer an option in that the efficient means of switching off can actually be remote from the motor, providing a safe system of work is in place to prevent danger. A better approach would be to define isolation requirements by current levels and locality to the power source, giving systems designers and industrial electricians more leeway in terms of where crucial isolation points are located.

It must not be forgotten that the 18^th Edition regulations are a guide and are intended to be a ‘one size fits all’ approach. However, for younger, less experienced engineers, this can be cause for confusion as they are to some degree, open to interpretation. Newly-qualified electricians or those in training may find themselves faced with problems and situations on site which are not directly referred to by the guidance. In cases such as these, the individual is required to draw on common sense and experience to settle on a workable solution.

Some may argue that the lack of detail contained within the regulations limits their usefulness. However, turning them from ‘guidance’ into ‘rules’ could create further issues. A rule is inherently more prescriptive and considering the extremely diverse nature of industrial electrical applications, it would be a near impossible task to compile a single set of rules which would cover all eventualities.

One area of the 18^th Edition regulations where there is clearly room for improvement is around some of the more specific sections, which would benefit for a degree of clarification. For example, there clearer distinctions should be made between the differing requirements for domestic, industrial and commercial installations. Of course, a large amount of the information, for example around earthing requirements, would remain the same. However, having set specifications for electricians working in different environments would be helpful in the long run.

Similarly, more detail should be given in the regulations about ‘Zs’ values, which represent maximum loop fault earth impedance. Currently, only the more commonplace figures are quoted in the 18^th Edition, which rarely gives the level of information needed for industrial electricians. As the figures change, rather than waiting for a new edition of the regulations to be published, the amends could be issued as an addendum to the main document.

Lastly, there are some grey areas in the current publication around cable types. There are a number of IEC 60502-1-compliant cables, which are not necessarily coordinated with BS7671, the main UK wiring regulations. However, in the 18^th Edition there are several blanket references, suggesting that all IEC 60502-1 cables may be of similar requirement to the British Standard. These parts are stated as informative (Appendix 4.1 for example) so they are not a regulation. Despite being a rather niche point, this distinction is important nonetheless, especially for less experienced electricians and designers in training.

The 18^th Edition regulations form an important source of guidance and standardisation for electricians operating in a number of different environments. Whilst turning them from ‘guidance’ into ‘rules’ is not likely to benefit anyone, a number of refinements and clarifications would make them a more powerful and accessible tool for all of the UK’s electricians. Who knows what the 19^th Edition may bring?

18th Edition – Is it fit for purpose?

Source: Electrical Times

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Start date for £1.4bn London Gotham City offices

The long-delayed 40 Leadenhall Street office scheme in the City of London has finally got a start date.

In a significant vote of confidence in the City, M&G Prudential has salvaged the stalled scheme with plans to invest £875m to buy and build on the site.

Contractor Mace has been in the frame to build the 900,000 sq ft project nicknamed Gotham City for more than 12 months.

Construction will now start early in 2020 once Keltbray completes clearing the key Leadenhall Triangle site to allow building of two stepped towers of 14 and 34 storeys.

The site was sold by Alberta Investment Management Corporation and Nuveen Real Estate, which will continue as development manager.

The new buildings’ carbon emissions will be 30% below current regulations and are expected to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating.

Tony Brown, global head of M&G Real Estate, said: “London’s commercial property market currently offers good value relative to other capital cities such as Paris and Tokyo, partly due to Brexit-related uncertainty.”

“As there are a limited number of developments underway in London, we expect high-quality office space like this with an emphasis on green credentials and employee well-being to be in demand from occupiers when the scheme is completed in four years.”

Start date for £1.4bn London Gotham City offices

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Native Land commits to £1bn London Bankside scheme

Developer Native Land has committed to the first speculative office building at its £1bn Bankside Yards mixed-use development next to Blackfriars Bridge in London.

Demolition and foundations specialist McGee has bagged the contract for the Western Yards basement and concrete core for the initial 230,000 sq ft offices project, known as the Arbor.

Tendering for main contractor is now underway with an award targeted before the end of the year. Mace, Multiplex and Balfour Beatty are among those chasing the job.

The centrepiece of Bankside Yards will be the restoration of 14 historic railway arches set in three acres of newly-created open space.

Native Land and its consortium partners Temasek, HPL and Amcorp Properties have now fully funded the Western Yards first phase, which also includes a residential block of 240 luxury flats with views across the capital.

Western Yards will also create 50,000 sq ft of independent retail, restaurant and cultural space in the restored railway arches.

More than half of the wider 5.5-acre Bankside Yards site will be walkable open space, with extensive greenspace and a sweeping stairway down to the Thames.

When complete the scheme located near the Tate Modern gallery will consist of around 600 homes.

The developer will make a financial contribution of at least £65m to Southwark Council to deliver new affordable housing across the borough.

The overall development will create an estimated 3,600 jobs in the retail, commercial and construction sectors, while providing training and apprenticeships for local job seekers.

Alasdair Nicholls, chief executive of Native Land, said: “We are opening up an important piece of London with amazing transport connections and, as locally-based developers, we are keen to contribute to the rich mix of the area by creating a place that’s accessible, enjoyable and productive.’

Native Land is developing a cultural strategy for Bankside Yards, which will integrate the development’s 20,000 sq ft of new cultural spaces with the wider South Bank and Bankside creative and arts scene.

The second phase of the development, known as Eastern Yards, will include a premier hotel and on-site affordable and private homes.

Bankside Yards is master-planned by PLP Architecture with Gillespies as the landscape architects.

Native Land commits to £1bn London Bankside scheme

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Take 2 for Made in Dagenham film studios plan

Barking and Dagenham Council will go-ahead with plans to build a Hollywood-scale film studio in East London, despite its preferred development partner pulling out over Brexit uncertainty.

Pacifica Ventures, the studios where Breaking Bad was made, was preferred bidder for the Made in Dagenham studios.

But according to the council it failed to “progress matters sufficiently” and has lost its preferred bidder status.

Be First, Barking and Dagenham Council’s pioneering regeneration company, will now take on design and seek planning permission for the 20-acre former Sanofi site in Dagenham East.

The Dagenham East studios will provide up to 200 000 sq ft of film stages and workshops alongside creative workspace and food facilities.

Councillor Darren Rodwell, Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council said: “This is the next exciting stage in our ambition to build the largest studios in London for 25 years.

“If we get planning permission to build our Made in Dagenham studios, there are some exciting options – we could build them ourselves or we can work with any of the ambitious dynamic media companies who share our vision of making movies in what will be London’s Hollywood.”

Pat Hayes, Be First’s Managing Director, said: “Pacifica told us they were finding it difficult to deliver their plans due to uncertainty over the UK leaving the European Union.

“But what is not in doubt is the viability and demand for studio space in the UK which remains sky high, and that is why I am convinced there will be plenty of interest from parties who want to make sure movies will be Made in Dagenham.”

After last night’s council decision, Be First will submit a planning application in the New Year.

Take 2 for Made in Dagenham film studios plan

Source: Construction Enquirer

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August Newsletter 2019

August 22, 2019/10,458 Comments/in Newsletter /by Dean Kennedy

August 2019 Newsletter

‘ECO3 will cost installers and consumers dearly, Engineering services cautiously optimistic says survey, £100m Chester racecourse revamp approved, Baxi 800 range ready for September launch, Castle Building Services bags £6m M&E package’.

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Enquiries for new boiler installs up over 40% in summer months, reports boiler guide

According to boiler repair directory Boiler Guide, enquiries for new gas boiler installations on the platform have risen by 44.5% over the past three months, compared to May-July 2018.

The seasonal decline that often sees heating engineers struggle for business may be a thing of the past, the company says, with homeowners now more savvy to the potential savings of getting a new boiler installed when demand for heating engineers is lower.

David Holmes, Founder of Boiler Guide, said: “It’s great to see that more UK homeowners are not waiting until winter to get their boilers replaced – we are all well aware of the high demands on repair people during the colder snaps of winter and the potential implications of a broken boiler.

“In some areas of the UK you can save up to £500 by replacing your boiler in August as opposed to November, so it’s worth speaking to a heating engineer in the summer if you’re after a bargain.”

Enquiries for new boiler installs up over 40% in summer months, reports boiler guide

Source: HVP Magazine

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A WEEE lamp update

Visiting trade shows across the country, Recolight have learnt that disposing of waste electricals and lighting can be a headache for contractors. The Waste Electronic and Electrical Regulations were introduced to the UK back in 2007, but many contactors we spoke to either weren’t aware of them or didn’t know how to use them.

Recolight is a not for profit WEEE Compliance scheme, set up and funded by the lighting industry to manage a free lamp recycling service. If you collect 1000 lamps each quarter, the container and collection is free too. This is great for contractors carrying out a large re-lamp project, but not if you’ve only got a small number of lamps in your van. Recolight can still help though, as we have a UK network of 850 drop-off points. Search the map on the Recolight website to find the closest one, and then simply drop off your lamps between jobs. It’s free, but you do need to take a consignment note with you.

A consignment note is an Environment Agency requirement. They’re used to track the movement of hazardous waste. There are three copies, one to leave at the drop-off point, one for you, and one for your customer (where you pick up the waste from). The benefit to you, is that you can prove to your customer that you’re doing the right thing, and if you were to be stopped for a spot check by the Environment Agency, you are compliant.

You will find guidance on the Recolight website to help you with consignment notes, WEEE storage exemptions, and waste carrier licences.

A WEEE lamp update

Source: Electrical Trade Magazine

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ECO3 will ‘cost installers and consumers dearly’

The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) has warned that the proposals in the Government consultation for the Energy Company Obligation (ECO3) threaten the livelihoods of thousands of heating and plumbing businesses.

The consultation is seeking views on proposed changes to the current ECO3 scheme. This includes:

Incorporating the TrustMark Government Endorsed Quality scheme (a result of Each Home Counts) into ECO3, as a route to demonstrating compliance with the most up to date relevant PAS standards and to ensure a sufficient consumer protection process and guarantees are in place.
Technical changes to the way First Time Central Heating is treated under the scheme.

Stewart Clements, director, HHIC said: “The HHIC has consistently argued that the industry needs the existing building regulations to be better enforced and to have access to greater resources. Better policing and adherence to current standards is needed. What is not needed is another layer of expensive red and blue tape. This additional complexity will almost certainly lead to worse outcomes for more vulnerable people, who could be misled into options they do not want or need.”

“PAS2035 and Trustmark are potentially the most disruptive policy changes to hit the heating industry in decades and if we allow it to filter in unchecked, it could radically transform how heating engineers not only carry out their day job but whether they can operate at all.

“At present, ECO installers must comply with PAS 2030 which has been deemed bureaucratic, expensive and time consuming for the vast majority of heating installers. There are approximately 130,000 gas safe registered engineers in the UK and yet only 350 (0.4%) of them have registered with the scheme. Why is Government enforcing yet another scheme which is set to fail before it has even begun?

“A scheme that will financially benefit a number of accreditation companies and TrustMark, but not consumers, installers or ultimately Government who will see costs rise without any discernible change in delivery.

“Some will say that there is no cause for concern as ECO work is not compulsory and they can simply choose not to engage. We believe to adopt such a view would be naïve. This policy is sliding in below the radar. Once this standard makes its way into ECO it could (and most probably will) then make its way into Building Regulations and Gas Safe. The direction of travel is clear.”

ECO3 will ‘cost installers and consumers dearly’

Source: HPM Magazine

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Industry backs leading fire and security awards

A series of leading bodies from across the fire, emergency and security systems sector are now supporting this year’s FSA Awards, which are currently open to nominations from the entire industry.

In addition to ECA and Select, which are partnering on the FSA Awards, the industry bodies now supporting the awards are as follows:

– BAFE
– Fire Protection Association (FPA)
– National Security Inspectorate (NSI)
– Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB)

There are two individual FSA Awards – the Peter Greenwood Security Award, and the Ian Marsh Fire Award. A panel of independent judges from the FSA partners and supporters will determine the winning duo, based on their contribution to the industry.

The judging panel for this year’s awards is as follows:

– Tom Brookes, Chair, FSA
– Una Riley, Security industry expert
– Alan Wilson, Managing Director, Select
– Richard Jenkins, CEO, NSI
– Alex Carmichael, Chief Executive, SSAIB

FSA Chair and Managing Director of Lindum Fire Services, Tom Brookes, comments, “The FSA is delighted to see these awards move from strength to strength, with the entire industry now getting behind both the Peter Greenwood Security Award and the Ian Marsh Fire Award. We encourage the industry to put forward well deserving individuals for the awards.”

Both FSA Awards are being presented at the IFSEC ‘Security and Fire Excellence Awards’ on November 20, 2019 at the Park Lane Hilton in London. The winners of both FSA Awards (plus one guest each) will receive free places on the FSA’s table on the evening.

For more details, or to nominate an individual for either award, please click here. Nominations close on September 13.

Industry backs leading fire and security awards

Source: Electrical Contracting News

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£100m Chester Racecourse revamp approved

Plans for a £100m major revamp of Chester Racecourse have been approved.

The upgrade project involves the construction of a six-storey grandstand and conference centre.

The first phase of work could now begin in the autumn. The scheme will involve demolition of the existing Leverhulme grandstand to create a large fan-shaped public lawn.

This space to be known as Paradise Square will be available for racegoers and the public on non-race days.

Cheshire West and Chester councillors had rejected the initial plans in March. As a result, the racecourse withdrew its plan to build a multi-storey car park and to use Saddlery Way to access the Roodee on race days.

Chester Race Company chief executive, Richard Thomas, said: “The Masterplan is very important to the future of the Race Company and represents a massive investment in Chester.

“The Conference Centre and Grandstand will be a fantastic Civic building for the City and, on race days, provide a new viewing and hospitality Grandstand like no other.”

The revamp was designed by London-based McGuirk & Watson Architecture with consultant Ramboll providing structural and M&E design services. Preston-based Frank Whittle Partnership is the cost consultant.

£100m Chester Racecourse revamp approved

Source: Construction Enquirer

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B&K checks in with Manchester “Jenga” hotel

Local developer Capital & Centric has picked Bowmer & Kirkland to build a striking 275-bed hotel near Piccadilly Station in Manchester.

It is understood to have beaten Bardsley and Willmott Dixon to take the project, which boasts a quirky Jenga-like design drawn up by architect Stephenson Studio.

Demolition of existing warehousing at the site on the corner of Adair Street and Great Ancoats Street is due to kick-off shortly.

The Leonardo Hotel will rise to 13 floors and is expected to cost over £25m to build.

Durham-based J H Partners is the M&E consultant with Bury-based Booth King Partnership providing structural design.

B&K checks in with Manchester “Jenga” hotel

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Castle Building Services bags £6m M&E package

Castle Building Services has landed a £6m M&E package from Bowmer & Kirkland on a £32m student scheme in Preston.

CBS will start design and BIM work now before arriving on site next May at the University of Central Lancashire building designed by architect Hawkins\Brown.

The 7,304 sq m four-storey, highly glazed building will provide a new reception area, informal learning spaces and a student wellbeing support centre.

It is part of a wider £200m investment by the university to transform its Preston Campus.

Lee Mitchel, CBS operations director for the North West said: “We are highly delighted to have been appointed, by Bowmer & Kirkland, to work on such an impressive building.

“It has been designed with flexibility in mind and as such, the building services adopted within it must reflect that.

“I am confident that our early appointment to the project and longstanding working relationship with the main contractor will support the seamless delivery of the state-of-the-art building.”

Castle Building Services bags £6m M&E package

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Baxi 800 range ready for September launch

Baxi has unveiled its new 800 range of boilers ahead of a full release next month, on September 2nd.

The range has been designed “to meet the changing needs of consumers”, consisting of the Baxi 825 Combi, Baxi 830 Combi, Baxi 836 Combi, Baxi 818 System and the Baxi 824 System.

Each boiler has a central flue design and comes with a 10-year parts and labour warranty, and a compact Adey Magnaclean Micro2 magnet system filter to protect the heating system.

Of the accessories available to complement the range, there is a rear pipework kit, extensive range of flues and accessories for versatile siting, IFOS in-flue weather sensors for easy compliance with Boiler Plus and the uSense smart control.

David Cook, sales director at Baxi Heating, added: “The new Baxi 800 range is straightforward to install, reliable and easy to maintain. It was designed with installers in mind, with the features they told us they prefer, such as brass hydraulics. The 10-year warranty and magnetic filter mean they can offer their customers the complete package.”

Baxi 800 range ready for September launch

Source: HPM Magazine

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Engineering services cautiously optimistic, says survey

The latest Building Engineering Business Survey, sponsored by Scolmore, has shown that sector growth remained steady in the second quarter of 2019 in the face of rising costs and persistent payment issues.

The survey, which included data from industry trade bodies ECA, BESA, SELECT and SNIPEF, found that more than 8 in 10 (81%) businesses’ turnover remained the same or increased in Q2 2019 (versus Q1 2019). Less than a fifth (18%) reported their turnover had decreased.Outlook for Q3 suggests that the vast majority (85%) of businesses expect more or the same turnover compared to Q2.ECA CEO Steve Bratt commented, “Businesses are continuing to show resilience in what is a challenging commercial environment, with increased costs and poor payment ongoing concerns. With the uncertainty of the ongoing Brexit impasse casting a shadow over industry, it’s vital that the new government injects some impetus by backing major infrastructure projects and ensuring prompt payment across the sector.”More than half (52%) of respondents reported an increase in labour costs, while two thirds (62%) reported an increase in material costs.Prompt payment remained a major challenge, with it taking over 30 days in 62 per cent of jobs in the public sector, in breach of regulations. This comes despite 56 per cent of businesses saying their clients promised below 30-day payment within contractual agreements.BESA CEO David Frise added, “It’s reassuring to see how resilient the industry is in spite of the current political situation, the continued scourge of late payments and the rising costs of labour and materials.“The new government must take heed that businesses are crying out for certainty. Until a clear consensus on what direction the country is heading emerges, this limbo will continue to hit investment and prevent us dealing with the other major challenges we face, such as climate change, air quality, improvements to the NHS and education and the housing crisis.”SNIPEF CEO Fiona Hodgson also commented, “While it is promising to see signs of steady growth in the industry, it is clear the sector still faces many challenges. Issues with poor payment practices and growing costs continue to affect the sector. It is important these problems are urgently addressed to provide certainty for businesses.”The survey received 497 responses from companies across the industry, mainly regarding their performance in Q2 2019 (1 April to 30 June 2019), and expectations for Q3 2019.

Engineering services cautiously optimistic, says survey

Source: Electrical Review

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Kensa to step up ground source heat pump production

Manufacturer expects new manufacturing and office complex to produce 30,000 heat pump units and support wider research in appliances able to meet UK need for lower carbon appliances

Kensa Heat Pumps has announced construction of a 1000 square metre manufacturing facility at its existing base in Cornwall that will allow it to manufacture 30,000 ground source heat pumps a year.

Announcement of the new production site, which will also include office space, coincides with the 20th anniversary of the company and will support market demand amidst the UK’s drive to decarbonise heat in buildings. The privately-funded investment will also support the manufacturer’s work to research and develop new products and components in line with new forms of refrigerant and operational benefits.

A key factor of the site’s construction will be the inclusion of underfloor heating and hot water that is fed by a ground source heat pump. The technology will make use of heat in water in the flodded mine workings below.

The new facility is expected to create potentially up to 150 new jobs with the company, which expects annual growth of 50 per cent as the government prepares to introduce regulations to end the use of high carbon fossils fuels in new build homes from 2025.

Kensa has claimed that ground source heat pumps are capable of providing the lowest cost heat of all appliances currently on the market.

Company chief executive Simon Lomax said the new site, which is due to be operational from January 2020, would cement its reputation as a major employer in the region’s low carbon heating sector.

He said, “Kensa is the long-established UK market leader and we expect to grow at a rapid rate in the years ahead as the appeal of ground source heat pumps become apparent to all.”

Sarah Newton, the Conservative MP for Truro and Falmouth, also welcomed the expansion of the company in the area, noting its ability to produce heat pumps that she said would be increasingly Important to realise the government’s 2050 decarbonisation target.

Kensa to step up ground source heat pump production

Source: HVN Plus

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EV Charging: ‘Quality must come first’ states Bureau Veritas

In response to the government’s recent pledge to invest more cash into the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, Bureau Veritas has again voiced its concerns over maintenance challenges; stating that ‘quality must come first’ if the UK is to create a world-class charging network for cleaner vehicles.

This week, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced it is pumping nearly £40 million into improving the infrastructure for electric vehicles, with investments in wireless charging and pop-up pavement technology. All new homes built in Britain are also set to be fitted with charging points for electric cars.

At present, the UK has more than 24,000 public charging connectors in nearly 9,000 locations. However, with EV car registrations up 62% to 2,461 in June compared with the same month last year, the number of charging points being installed is expected to rise dramatically in the coming years.

Welcoming the government’s additional funding, Bureau Veritas has responded saying that the speedy creation of charging infrastructure should focus on quality and safety.

Michael Kenyon, Technical Manager at Bureau Veritas, says, “This funding offers a great opportunity to a number of industries, including automotive, engineering and electrical contractors, currently involved in delivering the government’s Road to Zero strategy, which wants ‘almost every car and van’ in the UK to be zero emission by 2050.”

“However, in the race to deliver the adequate charging infrastructure required to achieve this, quality in terms of engineering, safety and compliant installations must come first. Especially, if the UK is to create a world-class charging network for cleaner vehicles – one that is not only cost-effective but will also last the test of time.”

Bureau Veritas is also encouraging installers of charging points to ensure they hold the latest accreditations and are up to speed with recent rule changes on residual current devices (RCDs) and earthing arrangements. The firm points to new guidance on the installation of EV charging points offered in Section 722 of the 18^th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations. This has recently led to the code of practice for electric vehicle charging equipment installations moving on to its 3^rd Edition.

Michael Kenyon adds, “As all new installations will need to be compliant, businesses such as service stations, shopping centres and hotels will require installers of EV charging points to be accredited by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV). What’s more, installers and inspectors of charging infrastructure will need to have a clear and detailed understanding of the different types and classifications of RCDs and how to test them.”

“We understand that for many, this will be a new area, often fraught with complexity. That’s why putting a robust strategy in place for the initial inspection and maintenance of these charging installations by an independent appraiser is the best way to ensure they comply with all the relevant standards.”

EV Charging: ‘Quality must come first’ states Bureau Veritas

Source: Electrical Contracting News

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Radisson backs £5bn Kent theme park with hotel plan

Radisson has become a stakeholder in the planned £5bn London Resort theme park in Kent.

Radisson said it will open a luxury 430-room hotel at the resort as plans for the “British Disneyland” continue to progress.

Backers of The London Resort hope to complete construction on the 535 acre site near Ebbsfleet station in 2024.

Elie Younes, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer, Radisson Hotel Group, said: “We are delighted to be part of such an iconic and unique project that is breaking new ground and bringing together an exciting mix of global brands.

“We strive to create memorable experiences for our guests, and this is the perfect opportunity to do just that.”

PY Gerbeau, Chief Executive of London Resort Company Holdings (LRCH), said: “Radisson Hotel Group’s commitment to the resort represents a significant milestone and is testimony to the absolute conviction the team has to deliver this project.

“We are thrilled they have bought into our vision to create a totally unique entertainment destination and can’t wait to work with their team.

“Radisson Hotel Group will be bringing films and characters to life in what will be an unforgettable hotel experience and will complement the incredible experiences and attractions Paramount Studios will also be bringing to the resort.”

Radisson backs £5bn Kent theme park with hotel plan

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Willmott Dixon to complete Pochin Stoke site

Willmott Dixon is set to be confirmed as replacement contractor for Pochin on a £37.5m scheme in Stoke-on-Trent.

Work at the Smithfield development stalled earlier this month when Pochin went into administration.

The collapsed contractor was building an apartment block and hotel for developer Genr8 with both jobs set to be completed by the end of this year.

A Stoke-on-Trent City Council spokesman told the Stoke Sentinel: “Genr8 Developments has moved swiftly to put plans in place for the completion of its Clayworks build-to-rent apartments and the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel in Stoke-on-Trent’s Smithfield development since main contractor Pochin went into administration earlier this month.

“Genr8 has taken back possession of both sites and is proposing to appoint Wilmott Dixon as construction manager to complete both projects.

“Willmott Dixon is currently working closely with Genr8 to finalise programmes that will minimise any impact on project completion dates.

“Genr8 has also already appointed key members of the original site delivery team to work as part of the Genr8 construction management team on both projects, securing jobs and ensuring continued smooth progress.

“Just a week after the Pochin news was announced the team has returned to site and is meeting with key members of the existing supply chain to reassure them of Genr8’s commitment to complete the project.”

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Kier to start work on £50m new home for Durham council

Kier will start main construction work on the new £50m home of Durham County Council next month.

Work in the city centre will create a modern building less than a third of the size of the current County Hall building and will accommodate 1,000 staff.

Major works on site will begin in around four weeks and will see the building complete in autumn 2021.

As part of the project, Kier will create 250 new jobs in the local area that will be a mix of apprenticeships and employment opportunities for locals currently unemployed.

Tom Gilman, managing director for Kier Property North said: “We’re excited to be developing this 110,000 sq ft building and seeing the overall added value that this scheme will bring to the County.”

Brian McQuade, managing director for Kier Regional Building Scotland and North East added: “This project, in the heart of Durham City provides us with an excellent opportunity to not only deliver a first-class facility for Durham County Council but to also create exciting job opportunities in the local community.

“We aim to leave a positive legacy in all areas we operate and look forward to working with our local supply chain partners and Durham County Council to deliver this new project.”

Cllr Joy Allen, Cabinet member for transformation, culture and tourism at Durham County Council, said: “The development of the Aykley Heads site presents a once in a generation opportunity to transform the county’s economic prospects, with the development of what will be one of the most attractive business parks in the whole of the North East, and has the full support of the business community.

“The planned development will create thousands of new high-quality jobs and future employment opportunities for our young people, as well as bringing millions of pounds of investment into the county.”

Following the opening of the new headquarters, the current site of Durham County Hall at Aykley Heads has been earmarked as the site for a new multi-million-pound business district that could create 6,000 new jobs and deliver a £400m boost to the county economy once complete.

Kier to start work on £50m new home for Durham council

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Summer Bank Holiday 2019

August 22, 2019/7,935 Comments/in Blog /by Dean Kennedy

July Newsletter 2019

July 25, 2019/9,982 Comments/in Newsletter /by Dean Kennedy

July 2019 Newsletter

‘Apprentices deliver clear ROI, new research shows, Research shows basic repair skills gap, Go-ahead for eight-storey student scheme in Derby, Plans go in for 40-storey tower in Docklands, Positive prospects for the electrical wholesale market.’

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Apprentices deliver clear ROI, new research shows

Companies that recruit apprentices can see a return on investment (ROI) as soon as year two of the apprenticeship programme, according to new figures from The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership.

Using scenarios based on low, medium and high charge-out rates for unskilled and skilled work, the overall net costs and benefits of apprentice recruitment have been projected.

At the lowest rates, an apprentice delivers a net benefit of around £11,400 over the four years, and starts to make a return in year three of the apprenticeship. At higher charge-out rates, the apprentice begins to pay for themselves in year two, and by the end of year four, has created a net total benefit of just over £34,000 at medium charge out rates and £56,700 at high rates.

Research specialist, Pye Tait Consulting, carried out the analysis on behalf of TESP after speaking to 20 companies of different sizes and specialisms. Each company was asked about the weekly wages of apprentices over the course of the apprenticeship, as well as additional costs for course fees, travel, equipment, in-house training and the time spent by supervisors and other skilled staff for mentoring and support.

The calculations take into account the weekly costs of an apprentice and supervision, the percentage of time spent on supervision, and the increasing amount of time the apprentice spends completing the work of a qualified electrician.

With 95% of training costs in England now funded by the Government for apprentices of all ages, these new figures provide a strong case for employers to consider apprentices as a means of bringing new skills into the business.

For smaller companies that often struggle with the resource for managing the apprenticeship and initial impact of productivity, TESP believes these projected returns demonstrate that, with the support of a quality training provider, an apprenticeship will eventually pay off.

“Although it is a commitment, which can be daunting to small businesses in particular, investing the time and resource into apprenticeships will ultimately drive business growth,” says Ruth Devine, Managing Director of SJD Electrical and Chair of TESP. “As a small business owner, I have experienced first-hand that, over time, apprenticeships increase capacity and strengthen the business culture.

“A strong relationship with a quality local FE college or training provider is vital, however. Industry organisations such as the TESP partners are also happy to help and give advice. When I first started at SJD, I found the supportive network of fellow ECA members invaluable to navigate some of the challenges of managing apprentices and providers; it’s always good to benefit from others’ experience.”

Leading apprentice training providers, JTL and Focus Training, also welcomed the release of the ROI figures to support their employer recruitment efforts:

“The report is really helpful to us as a training provider. We’ve never been under any illusion about the value of apprentices, but the analysis will help us to convince employers of the tangible benefit to taking on an apprentice,” comments Liam Sammon, JTL’s Director of Learning and Innovation.

Bernard Collins, Curriculum and Quality Director at Focus Training Group, adds, “It is great to see evidence that having an apprentice not only delivers an individual who fits in with the companies’ ethos and work ethic, but also provides an appreciable financial return, even after making allowances for support and expenses.”

To read the report in full, visit www.the-esp.org.uk/ourwork/lmi

Apprentices deliver clear ROI, new research shows

Source: Electrical Contracting News

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Research shows basic repair skills gap

Young Brits haven’t been taught basic home repair skills, according to new research. Less than a third (31%) of 18-24 year olds know how to how to change a light fitting, compared to 60% of over 55s. Just over a third (37%) of young adults know how to replace a shower head, whilst 65% of over 55s would be confident with the same task.

The survey, commissioned by the Water Regulation Advisory Scheme (WRAS), found that adults born after 1985 are increasingly unable to take on simple tasks.

Only one third (31%) of 18-34 year olds, both millennials and Gen-Zs, would know how to bleed a radiator – whereas an impressive 79% of over-55s would be able to do this quick job.

In fact, across the board of basic home repairs, those born in the 1960s and earlier are more capable of repairs than younger generations.

On average, the home repairs Brits feel most capable of are:

Bleeding a radiator – 57%
Fixing a squeaky door 54.5%
Replacing a shower head – 53.3%
Fixing a blocked toilet – 44.6%
Replacing a light fixture – 44.5%
Fixing a hole in a wall – 43.9%
Fixing wobbly furniture – 43%
Fixing a leaky tap – 30.2%
Fixing a leaky loo – 21.1%

Julie Spinks, managing director of WRAS, said: “There is a clear generational divide when it comes to doing repairs in the home. ‘Generation Rent’ seems to have created a nation of people who aren’t confident in dealing with straight forward DIY tasks, from changing a light fixture to even bleeding a radiator. Knowing how to do some of these tasks can save time and money.”

WRAS is urging people to know which repairs can be done by themselves and which ones require professional advice.

“What’s reassuring is that most people wouldn’t tackle more technical plumbing jobs themselves, regardless of age. A small leak can cause havoc in the home and is something most homeowners, renters or landlords don’t want to deal with, given the emotional and financial impact it could cause if it’s not fixed properly. It’s always advisable to use an approved plumber to resolve any leaks,” she added.

Research shows basic repair skills gap

Source: HPM Magazine

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Could an electrician be Britain’s top tradesperson 2019

In its tenth year, Screwfix is proud to announce that its Britain’s Top Tradesperson competition is now open, and electricians can put themselves forward for the top prize.

The annual competition by Screwfix, aims to celebrate the outstanding work and professionalism of UK tradespeople, resulting in one exceptional individual winning a £20k trade bundle, comprising of £10k worth of tools, £5k tech and £5k to go towards future training.

Screwfix will shortlist the UK’s top tradespeople to take part in a semi-final, before picking the top 10 finalists, who will travel to Screwfix LIVE at Farnborough to meet a panel of judges.

Caroline Welsh, Director of Brand and Marketing at Screwfix said: “As Screwfix celebrates the 10^th anniversary of Britain’s Top Tradesperson, our goal is to find someone who is the embodiment of their trade. The search is on to crown someone who not only champions their trade, but also acts as an ambassador to help futureproof the industry and encourage future generations.

“Since we launched the competition in 2009, we have seen record levels of entrants year on year and we are excited to see what this year has to offer. We know from talking to our trade customers how much they enjoy taking part, and with such strong competition we will be looking for one high calibre individual”

Darren Staniforth, from NICEIC, the leading certification body for registered electricians, will be a part of the 2019 judging panel. Darren said: “Britain’s Top Tradesperson gives electricians and all tradespeople the chance to receive the recognition they deserve. We’ve been supporting this campaign for the past decade, and would encourage our registrants and other electricians to apply to represent the best of the electrical trade.”

Past winners include Plumbing and Gas Engineer, Michael Cairns from Edinburgh and 2018 winner, Carpenter, Stuart Roache from Northampton.

Speaking from experience on how winning the competition can transform your livelihood, 2012 winner, Michael Cairns said: “Being named Britain’s Top Tradesperson was such an achievement. It has allowed me to lay a stable foundation and further invest in my business; I now employ 15 people and continue to see year-on-year growth. It genuinely changed my business for the better. ”

2018 winner, Stuart Roache added: “Winning the competition last year changed my business forever and created so many fantastic opportunities. The accolade is the ultimate recognition a tradesperson can receive. I would definitely encourage others to enter; the rewards are life changing!”

Entries are open until 4^th August 2019 and you can enter at: Screwfix.com/btt.

Could an electrician be Britain’s top tradesperson 2019

Source: Electrical Times

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Plumbers too busy for time off

A Glow-worm survey reveals nearly a third of gas engineers and plumbers’ workloads prevent them from taking time off.

The survey found that on average, plumbers and gas engineers only take 18 days of holiday per year, compared to other UK full-time workers who are entitled to a minimum of 28 days’ paid holiday.

Glow-worm, in association with OnePoll, quizzed 300 tradespeople on their work-life balance and holiday preferences and found the amount of time they have off falls well short of the national average.

When asked which factors stop them from going on holiday, 39% of electricians and 30% of gas engineers and plumbers stated it was down to their busy work schedule. Cost is also a barrier for 39% of gas engineers/plumbers and approximately a third of builders, carpenters and electricians.

This struggle to take a break, combined with money worries, can have serious consequences on mental health. In fact, 49% of ‘general tradespeople’ and 45% of gas engineers/plumbers agree that ‘taking regular holidays is necessary for good mental health’.

Reasons such as these are why Glow-worm recently relaunched its Mystery Trip, it said, allowing 80 lucky heating engineers to be whisked away on an all-expenses paid trip to the now-revealed secret location of Vietnam. Installers can secure their place by hitting their personalised target of Glow-worm installations via Club Energy.

Spencer Clark, commercial director at Glow-worm, said: “Time off should be viewed as an investment in your wellbeing, rather than a detraction from your usual earnings. It doesn’t have to be a full week. Even just a day spent winding down and doing something enjoyable can help to re-set your mind and make you more productive when you do return to work.

“We know that time away from work can help to improve wellbeing and increase productivity, making initiatives like the Mystery Trip invaluable to tradespeople who feel as though they can’t any time off the job.”

Plumbers too busy for time off

Source: HPM Magazine

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Go-ahead for eight-storey student scheme in Derby

Plans to develop an eight-storey student accommodation scheme in Derby have been approved by the city council.

Godwin Developments will transform the Agard Street site into 142 studio apartments for students from the University of Derby.

Gurdeep Gill, associate director at Godwin Developments, said: “We are excited to develop this site which will be the perfect location for students, as it’s just a stone’s throw from the University of Derby’s law school.

“As developers, we work closely with universities to ensure our developments contribute as much as possible to improving the wellbeing of students.

“The property will be designed to encourage social interactions as students are now looking for an environment that has a sense of community and provides both private and social spaces.

“At Godwin Developments, we strive to meet the demands of students themselves, by ensuring accommodation has high-quality personal space that allows them to concentrate on their studies in a space they feel safe in – enabling them to get the most out of their university experience.”

The Agard Street site is one of the latest projects to be added to Godwin Developments’ growing portfolio, which contains a diverse range of commercial, residential and mixed-use property assets in key regional locations.

The developer now has 3,000,000 sq ft of development space across the UK totalling £600m GDV.

Go-ahead for eight-storey student scheme in Derby

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Construction’s best performing “ultra sites” revealed

The UK’s best-performing construction jobs have been revealed at this year’s Considerate Constructors Scheme’s 2019 National Ultra Site Awards ceremony.

Highways England’s A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon Improvement Scheme was crowned with the highest honour winning the coveted ‘2019 Ultra Site of the Year Award’.

There were a total of ten Ultra Site award categories and, for the first time, the top-performing supplier within six of these award categories were also honoured with a special individual recognition award.

Hundreds of guests from the UK’s top-performing Ultra Sites gathered at the Plaisterers’ Hall in central London yesterday for the awards ceremony, which was presented by Ann Bentley, the Construction Leadership Council lead on Supply Chain and Business Models.

The aim of Ultra Sites is to achieve ever greater integration of a contractor’s supply chain to meet and exceed the Scheme’s Code of Considerate Practice.

Considerate Constructors Scheme Chief Executive Edward Hardy said: “Ultra Sites represent a real turning point for the construction industry, by providing a way for the industry to work more collaboratively and realise the benefits of this greater integration for their workforce, community and environment.

“The winners and finalists of these awards range from small scale local projects through to large scale regional multi billion pound projects. This clearly shows how the Ultra Site model can be embraced by any type of construction activity, no matter the size, scale or budget.

Click here to view the 2019 Ultra Site Award winners.

Construction’s best performing “ultra sites” revealed

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Plans go in for 40-storey tower in Docklands

Developer Rockwell has submitted plans to transform Quay House in London’s Docklands from a three-storey building into a 40-storey tower.

The London Borough of Tower Hamlets will now consider plans put together in partnership with FirethornTrust.

The proposals include a 400 bedroom hotel and 279 serviced apartments which will create 300 construction jobs during the building phase.

Jonathan Manns, Head of Planning & Development at Rockwell said: “We are extremely proud of our proposals, which will maximise employment and training opportunities whilst significantly enhancing South Quay and the surrounding area.

“Rockwell is committed to the redevelopment of Quay House and we are excited to transform the currently vacant building into a landmark mixed-use development.

“This application follows extensive engagement with the local community and, drawing on inspiration from New York’s “highline”, the proposed public realm responds directly to the feedback we received from our consultation events.”

Plans go in for 40-storey tower in Docklands

Source: Construction Enquirer

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ECIC urges electrical contractors to declare diversification

As new laws have been announced to guarantee payment for solar homes providing excess electricity, demand for solar panel technology from homeowners is expected to increase. This will in turn present a number of new opportunities for electrical contractors looking to broaden their contract opportunities.

ECIC, the specialist insurer for the building services sector, is encouraging electrical contractors who are diversifying into renewable technology to make sure that their insurance reflects the new work they are undertaking, to help ensure they are adequately protected if they need to make a claim.

New government legislation states that all new solar homes and businesses exporting electricity to the grid will be guaranteed a payment from suppliers. What is being described as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) will ensure that the owners of small-scale electricity generators with a capacity up to 5MW will be paid for each unit of electricity they sell to the grid – tracked by a smart meter.

Consequently, demand for renewable technology that generates this electricity is anticipated to grow, creating an opportunity for electrical contractors to fulfil this demand. However, change in work changes the insurance risk and under the Insurance Act 2015, contractors are under a duty to ensure that they present a ‘fair presentation of risk’ to their insurer. This means declaring changes in the type of work contractors are taking on.

Richard Forrest Smith, CEO of the ECIC, comments, “This new legislation has the potential to create a number of new business opportunities for electrical contractors. However, these opportunities can only be capitalised on if the contractors themselves are properly accredited and insured. Fitting solar panels and other renewable technologies have different risk factors, so insurance covers need to be adapted accordingly. Declaring these changes to their broker or insurer is essential to ensure the contractor is properly protected in the event of a claim.”

ECIC urges electrical contractors to declare diversification

Source: Electrical Contracting News

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IGEM seeks installer feedback on low pressure gas supplies

IGEM’s Low Pressure Supply Working Group is seeking industry comment on a number of recommendations designed to address the root cause of low supply issues on the gas distribution network.

Following a series of cross-industry meetings, IGEM’s Low Pressure Supply Working Group has concluded that low pressure is not a widespread issue and that the design of the UK distribution network remains fit for use with the majority of gas appliances currently on the market. However, it has acknowledged that over recent years there has been a progressive increase in the capacity of domestic boilers.

“The major reason for this is the increase in the average net heat input of domestic boilers being supplied, largely driven by the requirement for instant hot water for showers and baths,” said Ian McCluskey, IGEM’s Head of Technical Services & Policy.

“As a result of the discussions, the group concluded that procedures put in place to deal with incidents of low pressure can vary dramatically across the industry. This can sometimes mean the customer is unable to use certain appliances once they are installed.”

The group also concluded there is a need for greater cooperation across the industry to improve communication and to increase the level of understanding of all aspects of the gas system across the board.

“In particular, the group has identified a need for clarification on the pressure requirements for the low pressure supply system and for processes and procedures to be agreed across the industry,” said Ian.

“It is hoped this will enable the various industry standards and guidance to become consistent in their requirements and will mean manufacturers’ instructions match those requirements,” he added.

The working group has developed a set of proposals to address the concerns of the industry, which cover limits on the normal kW capacity of a domestic gas supply service, harmonise procedures for installing appliances, and cover precommissioning, commissioning, post commissioning, conditions for reporting low pressure supply, how emergency service providers should respond and downstream testing methods for low pressure.

The Low Pressure Supply Working Group was formed by IGEM in response to a request from the Standards Consultation Forum (SCF), back in 2016.

It is made up of representatives from British Gas, Cadent, DNV GL, Energy Assets, Global Energy, Heating and Hot Water Industry Council (HHIC), HomeServe, Health & Safety Executive, National Grid, Ofgem, OPGO, SGN, Tuffentech, and Wales & West Utilities.

Following an increase in the number of complaints from installers concerning incidents of low pressure on the gas distribution network, the SCF instructed the operators of Cadent, SGN, Northern Gas Networks, and Wales & West Utilities, to investigate and formulate a response.

Unfortunately, many in the industry felt the resulting Energy Networks Association (ENA) gas industry bulletin did not sufficiently address the issue and IGEM was subsequently approached to carry out further work in this area.

The full proposals and industry comment form can be found at www.igem.org.uk/technical-services/comment-on-draft-standards. Those working in the gas industry are invited to read the proposals and supply comments by 26 August to technical@igem.org.uk or send them for the attention of Peter Hurst, IGEM Technical Officer, IGEM House, 26 & 28 High Street, Kegworth, Derbyshire, DE74 2DA.

IGEM seeks installer feedback on low pressure gas supplies

Source: HVP Magazine

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Positive prospects for the electrical wholesale market

According AMA’s latest electrical wholesale research report, prospects for the electrical wholesale market are taking a positive turn, and a lot of it is credited to a growth in online sales.

Despite the uncertainty that came with Brexit in 2016 and a slower output growth in 2018, the research report suggests that the market has undergone a steady period of growth. In 2017, for instance, the market saw improved growth particularly in the domestic sector.

Factors supporting the market include sales growth in niche markets; innovation in product development; the establishment of new, specialist services and non-core products; and new legislation and regulations leading to a requirement for higher specification of products.

The research report highlights the factors which are negatively affecting market growth to be: continued public-sector budget constraints; uncertainty over the outcome of the Brexit process; price competition with many products in the mature phase of their life cycle; threat from other distribution channels, and longer product life-spans which have affected the replacement market.

Online sales of electrical products, however, are becoming an increasing important area of the electrical wholesale market. The growth in online sales between 2012 and 2017 was around 300%, compared to around 20% for the electrical products market as a whole.

Forecasts indicate that online sales growth will continue to perform strongly and achieve double digit growth each year from 2019 to 2021, when they are predicted to account for over 10% of all electrical product sales having represented just 3% in 2012.

The growth of e-commerce solutions among electrical wholesalers has aided the large nationals in particular, as they move towards adopting multi-channel sales. Most of the large national wholesalers now offer electronic versions of catalogues online and are operating online trading facilities.

Positive prospects for the electrical wholesale market

Source: Electrical Contracting News

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Heating tops the list of cost-effective home improvements

New research from self-storage experts Safestore has revealed that upgrading a property’s boiler and heating system has the highest return of investment when it comes to increasing a property’s value and is more cost-effective than other renovations and refurbishments.

The study looked at the typical cost someone would be expected to pay for various types of home improvements and the estimated value increase it might deliver.

With an average cost of £1300, new boilers/heating systems can boost your home’s value by almost 2% and have the biggest return on investment in our study.
Refurbished kitchens and lofts can bolster a home’s value by over 8% but their respective level of investment places them slightly lower.
A renovated garage or storage area can set you back up to £7000 but offer less than 1% of a home value increase in return, which ranks only above solar panels in terms of ROI (0.5%).

You can find the full study here

Heating tops the list of cost-effective home improvements

Source: Pham News

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Leeds Merrion Centre 17 storey office block approved

Leeds-based Town Centre Securities has got the planning go-ahead to build a 17-storey office and retail tower in the heart of the Merrion Centre in Leeds.

The new tower is planned to be built near the existing 12-storey Wade House and forms part of wider plans for the phased redevelopment and refurbishment of the Merrion Centre to make it a mixed-use destination.

The proposed new building will sit above the Home Bargains store and offer 170,000 sq ft of offices over 16 levels.

A four-storey disused cinema building, currently known as 100 Merrion Centre, will be demolished to make way for the commercial block.

Edward Ziff, chief executive of TCS, said: “We have identified considerable latent opportunity within our Merrion estate which we believe provides a platform for future growth.

“We firmly believe we are on the right track with Merrion and will continue to invest in and develop the asset, broadening our offer and delivering more for Leeds from this important mixed-use city centre destination.”

Ziff added: “A critical pillar of our strategy is to create long term future value by building a significant development pipeline.

“Our pipeline now has an estimated development value in excess of £600m.”

Last month GMI Construction completed the developer’s joint venture PRS scheme Burlington House in Manchester.

Leeds Merrion Centre 17 storey office block approved

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Six firms win £1.5bn Oxford Uni framework

The University of Oxford has named its preferred building contractors to deliver a £1.5bn pipeline of projects over the next decade.

The shake-up sees Morgan Sindall take top honours with places on all three framework lots covering small projects up to £5m, medium-sized projects up to £20m and large-scale builds.

BAM Construction and Wates also share the major project lot, while long term University builder Laing O’Rourke and McAlpine had to be content with reserve status.

Projects will include a mixture of new developments and refurbishment of some of its existing 237 buildings.

Capital Projects Partner Framework
Projects up to £5M	£5m-£20m	Over £20M
EW Beard	Morgan Sindall	Wates
Kingerlee	Willmott Dixon	Morgan Sindall
Morgan Sindall	Midas	BAM
Reserves	Reserves	Reserves
Speller Metcalfe	BAM	Sir Robert McAlpine
Stepnell	EW Beard	Laing O’Rourke

The UK’s oldest university tendered the framework to support its estates strategy and will route around £150m of construction work annually through the selected builders.

The first tranche of work is expected to be tendered through the framework imminently.

James York, area director for Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “The University of Oxford has an ambitious estates plan, and they have made the bold move to change how they operate to get the best from the market.

“We are extremely proud that they have chosen to put their faith in us. Providing valuable up-front advice, designing and building modern facilities fit for 21^st century higher education, and doing so in a sympathetic fashion befitting Oxford’s heritage, is a brief that we are relishing.”

Six firms win £1.5bn Oxford Uni framework

Source: Construction Enquirer

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Plan to expand Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park

Sheffield City Council has signed up developer Scarborough International Properties to lead the expansion of the Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park.

The developer will spearhead the major regeneration project in the lower Don Valley area, initially aiming to build 750,000 sq ft of business space for the sport, health and well-being sector.

This will be built on 70 acres of land around existing buildings such as the Fly DSA Arena, the English Institute for Sport, Sheffield, the UTC Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park and the Oasis Academy Don Valley.

Scarborough’s role will be working with the Council and all Legacy Park Limited stakeholders to assemble the site and lead the project team through the whole design, development, letting and funding process.

Scarborough is already under contract with Sheffield City Council to bring forward a £6m Community Sports Stadium at the park, incorporating more than 20,000 sq ft of business and conference space, which is planned to complete next summer.

Among other teams, the stadium will be home to Sheffield United Women’s football team.

Scarborough plans for its first project as preferred development partner a building of around 40,000 sq ft of office space, close to Sheffield Hallam University’s ‘Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre’ which is due to open this Autumn.

Scarborough expects to commence work on its building early in the New Year.

Kevin McCabe, chairman of Scarborough said: “We have been building our commitment to the project over the last two years, signing up in 2018 to develop and run the Community Stadium, and we now look forward accelerating the delivery of Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park to bring jobs and economic growth back to the Lower Don Valley area”.

He said the vision was for the park to become one of the world’s leading locations for innovation in sport, health and wellbeing.

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