THE MAGAZINE FOR NICEIC AND ELECSA REGISTERED CONTRACTORS

AUTUMN 2017 | ISSUE 203 | £5.00

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T SPO
How
grow
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01_Connections Cover Winter.indd 1 27/09/2017 12:44

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p02_CON.Aut17.indd 2 22/09/2017 10:56

 24

AUTUMN 2017 | ISSUE 203

CARE
19 Tradespeople can avoid costly
disputes by drawing up a formal
contract, writes Jonathan Evans
‘Security
functions at VENTILATION
20 A fan must work as part of an
low prices installed system to meet regulations
are driving
competition
and innovation’ CASE STUDY
22 A major
electrical overhaul
at the National
Army Museum

SECURITY
SYSTEMS
24 Access control
and alarm systems
are opening doors to 15
more electrical work

POWER TOOLS
22 32 28 Cordless tools are the future, but
care is needed to harness their force

CONTRACTOR PROFILE
32 Luro Electrical is now a
booming business specialising in
larger commercial contracts

28 TECHNICAL
37 Technical information
38 Ask the experts
HELLO TRAINING 40 Safe isolation
4 Taking the industry forward 1 0 A breakdown of three new City & 42 Replacing a consumer unit
Guilds courses for testing and inspection 47 Apprentice Corner
52 Circuit-breaker markings
57 Selectivity
INDUSTRY UPDATE 62 Snags and Solutions
6 Joining forces to drive CAUGHT ON CAMERA
up electrical standards 1 3 Your pictures of wrong-headed
refits and dubious earthing methods
7 Kriss Akabusi to appear at PRODUCT FOCUS
Live event; TechTalks focus on ADVICE 65 The latest products on the market
the 18th edition 1 5 To make the most of selling your
business, start preparations now OFF THE TOOLS
8 Contractors to gain from 69 ‘I joined a lifeboat rescue crew’
John Lewis Partnership OPINION
1 6 Jim Hutchison looks at the CURRENT AFFAIRS
9 Apprentice of the Year 2018 dangers of counterfeit phone chargers 70 Installer goes postal

3
AU T U MN 2 017

03_Contents.indd Sec2:3 28/09/2017 10:52

 TE
E MC
MHN I CAL
A C LANC Y

hello It’s good to talk Listening to contractors is a

vital part of how NICEIC and ELECSA operate, and is
helping to raise standards in the industry

T
hank you for your feedback regarding
the new Connections. Listening
to contractors and their views is
something I have always advocated,
particularly when it comes to improving standards
in the industry. As an industry leader, we have a
responsibility to continue to challenge ourselves
to improve.
On page 6 we outline the work we are doing
with NAPIT in this area. The collaboration
represents our commitment to continually strive
for improvements within the sector. We compete
with other scheme operators on price and service,
and I fully appreciate our customers always have
a choice.
However, we shouldn’t compete when it comes
to raising standards. That is when collaboration
is key.
One option Certsure will be looking at is how we
can include the benefits of individual assessment
alongside our existing QS model.
This will give contractors further choice
around their assessment and build on Certsure’s
reputation to service our customers effectively.
There is no one solution that fits all. That is why
we feel it is right to examine options that will serve
the industry as a whole. The important thing to
remember is that any new model will be voluntary,
so if contractors don’t want to change they won’t
have to.
We believe this is the right approach to take,
and one that refines and strengthens the existing
CPS model for registering contractors – a model
that serves more than 43,000 electrical firms
across the UK and has a competency assessment
at its heart.

‘We shouldn’t compete when it comes

Emma Clancy is chief
to raising standards. That is when
executive officer, Certsure collaboration is key’
C O N T A C T S / C O N N E C T I O NS

Level 5, 78 Chamber Street, London E1 8BL

EDITORIAL PRODUCTION © Redactive Publishing Ltd 2017 WWW.NICEIC.COM

General 020 7880 6200
Editor Nick Martindale
nick.martindale@redactive.co.uk
Technical editor
Timothy Benstead
Sub editor James Hundleby
Senior designer Craig Bowyer
Technical designer Adrian Taylor
Picture researcher Akin Falope
Publishing and business
development director
Aaron Nicholls
ADVERTISING/MARKETING
Gary Pavey
gary.pavey@redactive.co.uk
020 7880 6206 (Display)
Callum Nagle
callum.nagle@redactive.co.uk
0207 880 6217 (Classified)
General production
enquiries 020 7880 6240
Production manager
Jane Easterman
Production executive
Rachel Young
rachel.young@redactive.co.uk
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Should you require your
own copy of Connections or
multiple copies for your staff,
subscriptions are available by
calling 020 8950 9117
CONTRIBUTIONS
Connections welcomes ideas
for contributions.
Please email nick.martindale@
redactive.co.uk
ISSN 2042-5732
Level 5, 78 Chamber Street,
London E1 8BL Registered No.
3156216. All rights reserved. This
publication (and any part thereof) may
not be reproduced, transmitted or
stored in any print or electronic format
(including but not limited to any online
service, any database or any part of the
internet) or in any other format in any
media whatsoever, without the prior
written permission of the publisher.
Redactive Publishing Ltd accepts no
liability for the accuracy of the contents
or any opinions expressed herein.
Printed by Precision Colour
Printing Limited
WWW.ELECSA.CO.UK
ENQUIRIES
Certsure
01582 539000
Communications manager
Paul Collins 01582 539148
paul.s.collins@certsure.com
NICEIC Direct
Paul Elcock 01582 539709
paul.elcock@certsure.com
Twitter @officialNICEIC or @officialELECSA
Customer services 0333 015 6625
Sales 0333 015 6626
Training 0333 015 6627
Technical helpline 0333 015 6628
Insurance 0333 015 6629
Legal/tax 24-hour helpline 0117 934 2111
(provided by DAS Business Law)

4
AU T U MN 2 017

04_hello.indd Sec2:4 28/09/2017 15:40

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p05_CON.Aut17.indd 5 22/09/2017 10:57

 INDUSTRY UPDATE
news
Collaborative working to
improve industry standards
Certsure and NAPIT are once again working
together on proposals to improve standards within
the electrical sector.
The two competent person scheme (CPS) operators
previously collaborated on Registered Competent Person
Electrical (RCPE) – a single mark and register that
THE COLLABORATION
brought together more than 40,000 registered electrical
contracting firms across England and Wales.
CHOICE AROUND
The driving forces behind RCPE now want to expand
THEIR ASSESSMENT
on that work and further strengthen the assessment
processes of both organisations.
Over the years, the strengths of the two organisations
have been Certsure’s focus on the management and
supervision of competence, and NAPIT’s focus on
individual competence.
The new collaboration aims to combine these
approaches into a consistent approach, offering to
individually assess all electrical employees registered
with Certsure and NAPIT to
provide competence recognition for
all electricians.
Emma Clancy, CEO of Certsure,
said: “We are delighted to be working
with NAPIT to raise standards
and strengthen the competency
recognition model further within the
existing framework.
“This work refines and builds
on an existing model which
6-9 News.indd 6
Certsure
is committed to
improvements
within
the sector
already covers over 43,000 electrical firms and has a
competency assessment at its heart.”
The collaboration is designed to further improve
standards and give contractors further choice around their
assessment, as well as better meeting the requirements of
their customers at all scales of electrical work.
WILL GIVE Mike Andrews, CEO of NAPIT, said: “Our work is
CONTRACTORS an important cornerstone of the electrical industry.
Certsure and NAPIT understand that we can only
improve the safety of electrical installation work by
working together in a co-ordinated approach.
“We can only do this by assessing the competence of
organisations and individuals first-hand, monitoring
their abilities to ensure they are working to the latest
standards and industry requirements.”
The model for registering electrical contractors has
been in operation for more than 60 years; during that
time, it has evolved into the electrotechnical assessment
specification (EAS), which has been developed by
bodies representing the electrical installation industry
and consumer safety interests to enhance the standard
of safety of electrical installation work.
This industry-led approach has demonstrably worked
because of the balance it provides between electrical
safety regulation, protection for consumers and cost
burden of regulation on companies.
During this time, the UK government has had little
reason to intervene because of the ability of the industry
to work together and solve any problems.
6
AU T U MN 2 017
28/09/2017 10:53
 OLYMPIC STAR KRISS AKABUSI
HEADS LIVE NORTH LINE-UP
Olympic medallist and motivational
speaker Kriss Akabusi will be the
keynote speaker at NICEIC ELECSA
Live North, taking place at Aintree
Racecourse on 23 November.
Akabusi will talk about his own
athletics career, including winning the
400m hurdles gold medal at the 1990
Commonwealth Games and the bronze
at the 1992 Olympic Games, where he
set a British record still standing today.
Darren Staniforth and Alan Wells will
also be on hand to inform delegates
about the proposed changes to the
upcoming 18th edition and the recent
document for public comment, while
the IET’s Mark Coles will also provide an
overview on Part 8 of the regulations.
Other sessions include author James
Dewane advising contractors on how
TechTalks focus
on 18th edition
The 10th series of NICEIC’s popular
TechTalks is now underway, and the
number of contractors attending
each event continues to grow.
The hot topic for the current series
is the upcoming 18th edition of the
wiring regulations, due for release in
July 2018.
TechTalk host and industry expert
Darren Staniforth will be discussing
what contractors can expect to
see in the updated regulations and
explaining reasons for the changes.
Other subjects on the agenda
include arc fault detection devices,
EICR codings and fire safety standards.
“TechTalks give us the opportunity
to go around the country and speak
to our contractors about the latest
IMAGES: ALAMY
happenings within the industry, and
find out first-hand the issues they want
us to look at,” he said. “We will be
visiting some new venues which will
6-9 News.indd 7
DIARY
DATES
> October
to attract and retain
11 TechTalk Southampton
customers, and St Mary’s Stadium
Chris Ashworth
from Competitive 17 TechTalk Belfast
Advantage Culloden Estate and Spa
Consultancy, who > November
will present new 2-3 ELEX Sandown
research into how Westpoint Arena
much contractors should be charging.
Contractors will be able to visit the 23 NICEIC ELECSA Live
lively exhibition floor, attend dedicated
Aintree Racecourse
Liverpool
demo sessions and pose any questions
to NICEIC’s technical team. > December
Tickets cost just £29 plus VAT for 5 TechTalk Swansea
NICEIC, ELECSA and ECA registered Liberty Stadium
Three-time contractors, and £49 plus VAT for non- 7 TechTalk Bristol
European registered contractors.
gold medallist Ashton Gate Stadium
Kriss Akabusi
will speak To book your place, visit
at Aintree www.niceic-elecsalive.com
Certsure’s
communications
manager Paul Collins
(middle) with Luton
manager Nathan Jones
(right) and commercial
manager Dave Hoskins
give more people a chance to come
along and see what they are all about.”
Attendees will also be able to LUTON TOWN SIGN STAR NAMES
access special deals, try out some Luton Town kicked off their new season in League Two
of the latest products and get plenty with the NICEIC and ELECSA logos on the back of their
of technical advice from some of the home and away shirts.
industry’s biggest names who will be The Hatters are among the favourites to win promotion
exhibiting at each event. after narrowly missing out last season, and will be hoping
Each event starts at 9am and to go one better this year with the backing of NICEIC
finishes at 1.30pm, and every and ELECSA.
delegate gets a breakfast roll and Paul Collins, Certsure’s communications manager, said:
refreshments as part of the package. “We are delighted to once again be putting our brands
As well as the events listed behind Luton Town FC.
in the diary section, there will “We are committed to promoting our registered
also be TechTalks held in February contractors and the club is a great ambassador for our
in Newcastle (7), Leeds (9), brands. We would like to wish the management and the
Newmarket (20) and players all the best and are looking forward to another
Wolverhampton (22). great season working together.”
It will be the ninth year in a row the NICEIC name has
Tickets cost just £25 and can appeared on the Luton shirt.
be booked online at The Hatters regularly get in excess of 8,000 fans
www.shop.niceic.com/events or by at each home game and appear every Saturday on
emailing techtalk@certsure.com Channel 5’s Football on Five: Goal Rush.
7
AU T U MN 2 017
28/09/2017 10:54
 INDUSTRY UPDATE

NEWS IN
NUMBERS
CONTRACTORS TO GAIN
FROM JOHN LEWIS TIE-UP
7%
The amount by which
High-street giant John Lewis has teamed
up with NICEIC for a new service it is
“There is no cost to sign up,” says
Clancy. “It is completely free and a great
the value of construction
rolling out across the UK. opportunity for contractors to grow their
contract awards rose in
Home Solutions will put customers business and be associated with one
August, reaching a total of
in direct contact with professional of the most recognised and respected
£5.8 billion, according to
Barbour ABI's Economic &
tradespeople it has carefully checked, names in the market.
Construction Market Review vetted, interviewed and assessed. “John Lewis is also keen to get female
The service was trialled in Milton tradespeople on board, so NICEIC’s
Keynes earlier this year and will also Jobs for the Girls campaign was of great
operate in Cardiff, Bristol, Newport, Bath, interest to them.”
Taunton and Gloucester. John Lewis customers will be able to
8%
The proportion of
NICEIC CEO Emma Clancy said:
“Home Solutions brings together two
hire plumbers, electricians, decorators
and other trades through the app,
students aged 15-18 trusted brands and will provide further website and call centre-based service.
who were advised to opportunities for our contractors to win “Customers often ask us if we can help
seek a work-based more work.” them with tasks in their homes,” said
placement in 2016-17, according to research John Lewis approached NICEIC last Tom Athron, group development director
by ECA, JTL and the Joint Industry Board year to find electricians for the launch at the John Lewis Partnership. “We have
of the scheme. Several NICEIC registered taken a lot of care to find professionals
contractors signed who will deliver service
up to take part in a to the standard that
58%
The proportion of
rigorous recruitment
process, which included
people expect.”

electrical commercial interviews, background Find out more at www.

projects that remain checks and assessments johnlewishomesolutions.
highly focused of previous work. co.uk
on initial CAPEX
considerations, a
survey by Hager found

Commendation for Karl

61%
The number of electrical
An NICEIC registered electrician from
Wigan narrowly missed out on the top
firms that “somewhat” prize in a contest to find the nation's
support the proposed best tradesperson.
changes to the 18th Karl Mather, owner of KDM Electrical,
edition, ECA research was highly commended during this year’s
found. Just 6 per cent say Britain’s Top Tradesperson competition,
they fully back them organised by Screwfix.
He was one of eight entrants out of
5,000 who made it to the grand final
at Wembley.
He said: “I’m over the moon to have
knowledge and willingness to go above
and beyond for his customers. Over the
years Karl has supported those in need
and regularly works selflessly for charities.
Karl hit the headlines earlier this year
when he paid for and fitted a new heating
system for an elderly couple who could
not afford to replace an old heater.
Emma Clancy, CEO of NICEC, said:
“It is not surprising that Karl was highly
recommended. He is a credit to the
industry and his dedication and genuine

76%
The amount of
been highly commended. I was able
to showcase the variety of electrical
care for his customers really make him
a stand-out tradesperson. I am proud
challenges I’ve achieved to have him as a
electrotechnical workers
who say they would rather
for my customers, but NICEIC registrant.”
be directly employed than
also how important it is The overall winner
work through an agency, for me to support those was Lluis Dalmau,
according to research in need." a plumbing and
by ECA Karl impressed the heating engineer
judges with his wealth of from Clydebank.

8
AU T U MN 2 017

6-9 News.indd 8 28/09/2017 10:54


Apprentice competition now
open to the brightest and best
The 2018 NICEIC and ELECSA Apprentice of
the Year competition is now open for entries.
Now in its third year, the competition,
which is sponsored by the Scolmore
Group, welcomes all Level 3 students,
and will once again seek to test the skills and
knowledge of the candidates.
The registration process has been simplified
for this year: now, when students log into
register at www.niceic.com/apprentice they
can go straight to the online test, which forms
the first stage of the competition.
There are three stages to the competition.
The online assessment to test levels of
electrical knowledge will be open to all
students, with the top 20 per cent qualifying for
the next round – a 90-minute practical exam to
be held at a number of locations across the UK
and marked by industry experts.
Eight students with the highest scores
from stage two will go through to the grand
NEW FIRE STANDARD IN FORCE
A new edition of BS 5839 came into effect at
the end of August, and should be incorporated
IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK
into contractors’ working practices.
BS 5839-1 provides recommendations
for the planning, design, installation,
commissioning and maintenance of fire
detection and fire alarm systems.
The revised standard takes into account
6-9 News.indd 9
Last year's
grand finalists
and overall
winner George
Maynard
(centre)
final at Scolmore Group’s head offices in
Tamworth, Staffordshire, on Tuesday 5 June,
when candidates will be required to complete
challenging practical tasks over the course
of the day. The Apprentice of the Year will be
crowned at a special awards ceremony at The
Belfry Hotel & Resort that evening.
On offer are holiday vouchers worth £2,000
for the winner, £750 for the runner-up and
£250 for third place. The eight finalists will
also receive an engraved trophy, an iPad
and a van pack of Scolmore products, while
the college of the overall winner will receive
£1,000 worth of Scolmore products.
Every college that enters 20 students or
more for the competition will also receive a
Scolmore college pack containing a variety of
the company’s products.
For further information, or to enter the
competition, visit www.niceic.com/apprentice
changes to other major fire safety standards,
including BS EN 54 series of standards for fire
detection and alarm systems, and BS 9999 for
fire safety in commercial buildings.
BS5839-1 is available now at www.shop.
niceic.com. For more information about
fire-related courses, visit www.niceic.com
9
AU T U MN 2 017
ONLINE PORTAL HELPS
ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT
Certsure is set to launch an online portal
to help contractors manage their NICEIC/
ELECSA account.
The portal has been developed with
extensive input from contractors to
ensure it contains everything you need in
one place.
It will allow you to keep your account
details up to date, change your trading
title and amend contact details, check on
assessment visits and access billing and
payment information.
Contractors will be able to log into
the new portal via the secure areas of
the NICEIC and ELECSA websites.
Keep an eye on emails for more
information soon.
JERSEY COMPETENT
PERSONS SCHEME
NICEIC contractors in Jersey will
no longer be registered under the
Certification of Inspectors and Testers
of Electrical Installation Work Scheme
operated by NICEIC Certification.
Previously, contractors in Jersey
had to be registered with the scheme
to notify work in line with Jersey
Building Control.
Now the Jersey Building Control
Department have confirmed that the
NICEIC Approved Contractor scheme
meets the requirements for competent
person scheme registration on Jersey.
Therefore, all contractors in Jersey
have been automatically transferred to
the Approved Contractor scheme and
work should continue to be notified
by using NICEIConline.com, as well as
certificated as required by BS 7671, again
through NICEIConline.com
PLEDGE 15 MINUTES’ PAY
Electrical contractors are being
encouraged to give up 15 minutes of their
pay in October to help raise funds for
Alzheimer’s Research UK (ARUK).
Every NICEIC or ELECSA registered
contractor who donates to ARUK will be
entered into a prize draw to win a year’s
free registration with NICEIC or ELECSA.
For more information, please visit
http://support.alzheimersresearchuk.
org/event/15minutes
28/09/2017 10:54
 N EW C O U R S E S

All change Tweaks UPCOMING COURSES

to testing and inspection > November
Portable appliance testing
courses mean there are Chesterfield – 2 November
now three routes open to
Initial verification
contractors, says Asad Majid Dunstable – 6 November

Electric vehicle charging

S
ignificant changes have occurred in the world Chesterfield – 6 November
of training recently, most notably to courses Cardiff – 9 November
involving testing and inspection. Dunstable – 10 November
In June, City & Guilds announced it was
scrapping the 2394/5 (testing and inspection) and Periodic inspection
going back to the old 2391 qualification instead. Chesterfield – 21 November
The three new courses for testing and inspection are:
• 2391-50 Level 3 Award in Initial Verification 17th edition
• 2391-51 Level 3 Award in Periodic Inspection Chesterfield – 27 November
• 2391-52 Level 3 Award in Inspection and Testing Liverpool – 27 November
(combining both initial verification and periodic
inspection elements) > December
In addition to familiarity, this means City & Guilds has 17th edition
been able to change the way the course is delivered by Dunstable – 4 December
tutors and completed by students.
The most significant alteration has been to the Initial verification
written part of the exam, which is now in a shorter, Chesterfield – 9 December
question-style format. This has caused concern in
some quarters as it has been deemed to have ‘dumbed Portable appliance testing
down’ the process. However, in reality, final exams can Dunstable – 11 December
be marked more quickly, in line with the existing EAL
equivalent standard in inspection and testing. Please call 0333 015 6627 or email
Each individual course can be broken down into the traininginfo@niceic.com for more details
following elements:
2391-50 (initial verification)
Electric vehicle training
One 40-question, 90-minute, open-book multiple-
There are now more than 100,000 electric
choice examination and two practical assignment tasks,
vehicles on UK roads, up from just 3,500 in
including an inspection and test on a main rig, and a
2013. This number is only expected to rise,
short paper consisting of four written questions.
following plans to end the sale of petrol
2391-51 (periodic inspection)
and diesel cars by 2040.
One 40-question, 90-minute, open-book multiple-
The growing demand for electric
choice examination and three practical assignment
vehicle charging points is creating new
tasks, including an inspection and test on the test rig,
opportunities. NICEIC’s electrical vehicle
visual photo exercise (30 minutes) and a short paper
charging course will teach you everything
consisting of four written questions.
about installing EV points – in just one day.
2391-52 (combined course)
Asad Majid is national
training manager One 60-question, two-hour, open-book multiple-
at Certsure choice examination and three practical assignment
tasks, including an inspection and test on the test rig,
visual photo exercise (30 minutes) and a short paper
consisting of four written questions.
NICEIC began offering the new courses in September.
IMAGE: ISTOCK

Anyone who began the old 2394/5 courses prior to that

will have a full year to complete them and gain the
certificate, which will remain an acceptable Level 3 For more information, visit
testing qualification. www.niceic.com/training

10
AU T U MN 2 017

10_training_autumn (HI RES) (HEAD).indd Sec2:10 28/09/2017 10:55

 DIMENSIONS
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For more information, start at mkelectric.co.uk

p11_CON.Aut17.indd 11 22/09/2017 11:01

 N O R T H 2 0 1 7 23 NOVEMBER

Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool

Technical Conference and Exhibition
n

Don’t miss out on attending the multi award-winning

NICEIC ELECSA Live! Be a part of big debates,
update your knowledge and be inspired by the latest
innovations and technology for the electrical industry.
Visit: www.niceic-elecsalive.com

Keynote speaker
M BE ,
Kr iss A ka bu si
Technical M ot iva tio na l
Oly mp ian ,
ea ke r, Bu sin es sm an
experts on Sp

hand to
answer your
questions
Networking
20+
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A lively trade
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Meet more
opportunities
with more BOOK
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knowledge-
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sessions
Demo zone

30 400peers
Tickets from
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apprentice passes
are free of charge!

Partner sponsors:
www.niceic-elecsalive.com
or call 020 7324 2771
#niceicelecsalive

1. NICEIC live 2017 North

p12_CON.Aut17.indd 12 full_June 2017_pg_297x210mmITC_new cc17.indd 1 18/09/2017
22/09/2017 15:00
11:03
 YO UR P I C T U R E S

Caught
1
on
4 camera
Trusty NICEIC and ELECSA contractors
have been busy uncovering and
3
rectifying dodgy installations and DIY
botch jobs. Here are some of the worst
6 offenders from the past quarter

A
dodgy immersion heater connection in a loft
(1); a live connection in a ceiling being used to
power a spotlight (2); unusual earthing for power
generators at a high-profile outdoor event (3);
and a storage heater board that had been adapted to feed
sockets once the heaters had been removed (4).
5 It continues with a DIY screwdriver fix to a welding machine
over 13A which kept blowing fuses (5); a comfy home for a family
of five (live) mice (6); a fuse board with single insulated cables
supplying a check meter (7); an attempt to bypass a meter
with 10mm earth bonding, resulting in melted insulation and
heat damage (8); overloaded kitchen sockets including a plug
with two tails (9); and a dodgy distribution board in commercial
premises that had been split into two (10).

8
Thanks to...
7 >Alan Bruntlett from West Lindsey Electrical Contractors
in Market Rasen >Andrew Archer of Propertycare Bucks in
Milton Keynes >Derek Horsburgh from John Rae Ltd in Kelso
>Gary Chadfield of Chadfield Property services in Whitby
>Gary Goldstone of Gary G G Electrical in London >Mark
Hughes of Jones and Whitehead near Bangor >James Salt from
JDS Electrical Solutions in London >Mark Carne of MC Electrics
in Redcar >Aaron Roche of Regenesis Facilities in
Hythe >Martin Disley of Disley Electrical in Manchester

10
Keep those shots coming in!
9 Email caughtoncamera@redactive.co.uk

13
AU T U MN 2 017

13_coc_autumn.indd 13 28/09/2017 10:56

 THE POWER TO BUILD
YOUR BUSINESS
UPGRADE TO AN APPROVED CONTRACTOR

If you want to broaden your business even further into

the commercial and industrial sectors it’s never been
easier to upgrade your current enrolment.

Call our team now on 0333 015 6626 or

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the power behind your business

p14_CON.Aut17.indd 14 22/09/2017 11:04

 SE L L I N G Y O UR B US INE SS
I 
Clive Hyman is
founder of Hyman
Capital Services
www.hymancapital.com
15_Advice_autumn.indd Sec2:15
Sales pitch Getting a successful sale
with the right price for your business can be a
long-term project, so it’s vital to start planning
early, says Clive Hyman
f you’re planning to sell your business
in the next five years, then you need to
start preparing now. The work you put
in in advance will influence the quality
of potential buyers you attract, which in turn
will impact on the valuation you receive. The
following tips will help you prepare.
BUSINESS AS USUAL
During any sales process, the business must
continue to function as normal and, ideally, carry
on growing. Look at operations and staffing to
see how the allocation of your, and other relevant
company members’, time may be affected. Start
planning for this now.
Maintain confidentiality and only give
information to managers and staff on a need-to-
know basis. This will help ensure that the day-
to-day running, output and achievements of the
business are not disturbed.
DEFINE PRICE EXPECTATIONS
You’ll need to have a rough idea of what price
you can expect to get. If you are a listed company,
look at the listed market valuations and sales.
If you are a private company, look at the sale
prices from the last two to three years to form a
benchmark price for your company type, scale
and size.
Decide if you’re selling the whole business or
part of it. If the latter, then you will need to work
out the costs associated with the part that is
being sold, and allow for increased costs that the
company can no longer share.
PREPARATION FOR SALE
Identify shareholders’ and other ‘one-off ’
expenses that have been charged to the profit
and loss (P&L) account. These may need to be
added back to the P&L to establish the recurring
profitability of the business. Buyers like to see
consistent trends and therefore a sale may
need to be managed over a two to three-year
period, taking into account the industry, the
market, managing sales and achieving a targeted
growth curve.
15
AU T U MN 2 017
‘Commission an
external legal
or accounting
company to do due
diligence on your
own business’
UNDERTAKE DUE DILIGENCE
Commission an external legal or accounting
company to do due diligence on your own
business. This will highlight any issues that you
may not have been aware of so that you can
manage them in advance. Being forewarned
means there will be no nasty surprises which
could led to price reduction. Understand
the impact of any sale on your business/
personal tax. It may be possible to shape the
consideration to enable the tax payable to be
minimised legitimately.
You will have to warrant the information to
the purchaser. This means you must be able
to say truthfully that it has been prepared on a
proper basis and gives a true and fair view of the
business you are selling. If certain items come
to light, a purchaser may be entitled to make a
warranty claim.
ALLOCATE RESOURCES
It is unlikely that you/the company can handle
all the information required on your own. You’ll
need a project manager assembling all the data
and information that the advisers will require.
This will make the deal process more efficient and
identify any issues that need to be worked on.
Allow appropriate time and resources
to manage the process. It’s likely to be more
than you estimated. To achieve the maximum
value from your exit, remember you need to
run both the business and the sale
simultaneously and successfully right through
to the very end.
28/09/2017 10:58
 C OUN T E R F E IT P H O N E C H A R GE R S

Smart thinking Specifiers need to ensure

safe charging facilities are designed into
buildings to tackle the threat of counterfeit
phone chargers, says Jim Hutchison

W
e’re living in a digital age in
which smartphone uptake is
vast. But this uptake has also
triggered a rise in the number of
dangerous counterfeit phone chargers. Last year,
the Chartered Trading Standards Institute tested
approximately 400 fake Apple chargers and
found only three were insulated well enough to
protect the user from electric shock. Other risks
associated with their use include screen burns,
electrical fires and power cuts.
It can be easy to overlook the risks of portable
chargers being used in public, but electrical
safety should primarily be the responsibility of
building owners, facilities managers and health
and safety professionals. However, levels of
safety in public environments when charging
portable devices still depend on the user’s
awareness and attitudes.
Our research found that when it came to
awareness around the safety risks of using fake
phone chargers, a staggering 47 per cent of
people did not think there was a risk of electric
shock while using them.
It’s for this reason that responsibility to protect
the public now falls to the specifier during the
design process. Specifiers can limit the risks of
counterfeit chargers and maximise safety by
designing installations that include fixed USB
charging facilities in convenient locations.
Sockets with integrated USB charging outlets
or dedicated fixed USB charging points will offer
higher levels of user safety. Certain models
manage the charge to match the needs of the
device. This means that expensive devices will
not suffer component damage or screen burn,
and that the charging needs of the user can be
met without compromising charging speed.
Specifiers have a responsibility to make new
buildings as safe as possible for the public using
them. So, as the public increasingly look to
charge their devices in public spaces with both
official and unofficial chargers, it’s important for
specifiers to recognise and address the risks.
Jim Hutchison is national sales manager
at Crabtree

IN F O C US / ADAM PICK E N

How did you come
to start up?
I was a QS for a local company
prior to going out on my own, but
I started working for myself three
years ago. I explained to my old
company what I wanted to do
and they started feeding small
jobs to me. I still have a good
relationship with them today.
What type of work did you
take on?
It was more commercial to start
with but I’ve moved more into
domestic. I’ve got a contract
where I fit the electrics in new
Adam Picken
A Picken kitchens, and I have about six
Electricians, Walsall factories which I look after locally
too. I also work for a builder
doing extensions, and have a
contract with British Steel.
How has the
business grown?
I took on an employee not long
after I started and also a project
manager recently, so there are
three of us plus two apprentices
at the moment. I’m on the tools
for three days and then in the
office for two.
Where do you cover?
Everywhere around the
West Midlands. We travel as
far as Coventry, but most of it
is local.
What’s the hardest thing
about working for yourself?
Until a few weeks ago I was trying
to do everything, being on the
tools and pricing and invoicing.
I was working 70 hours a week.
Now I have the project manager
that’s taken a lot of pressure off.
What do you do
outside work?
Now I have most weekends
off I spend more time with
my two children.
If you are a small business or
sole trader and would like to
feature in In Focus, email
infocus@redactive.co.uk

16
AU T U MN 2 017

16 Winter 2010-11 NICEIC Connections www.niceic.com

16_opinion_autumn.indd Sec2:16 28/09/2017 10:58
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p18_CON.Aut17.indd 18 22/09/2017 11:08

 A V OI D I N G CO MP L AINTS
care
Jonathan Evans is
customer relations
engineer at Certsure
‘Often, the common denominator
with any complaint is in regard to
failed or misunderstood expectations’
19 care.indd Sec2:19
Get it in writing Setting out clear terms
and conditions is an essential part of ensuring jobs
go smoothly, says Jonathan Evans
I
rrespective of its nature, being involved in a
complaint is never a pleasant experience. It
can be detrimental to business and take up
an enormous amount of time trying to find a
successful resolution that appeases all parties.
Learning from the experience of processing
a complaint provides any business with an
opportunity to address any underlying issues.
The observable trends of the type of complaints
often have a common denominator. Where this
is the case, this can be addressed relatively
easily with minimal cost.
Often, the common denominator with
any complaint is in regard to failed or
misunderstood expectations. Where there has
been ineffective business project management,
poorly defined roles and responsibilities, and no
formally agreed extent and limitations of work,
complaints will typically follow.
ADMINISTRATION MATTERS
While a contractor should have an appropriate
level of technical knowledge and a high standard
of installation practice to meet customer
expectations, they should also look to add good
project management skills and a clear audit trail
for all appropriate documentation.
The first stage of this audit trail is usually
a contract. A formal written contract is not
something that just protects the consumer –
it is also a legally binding document a
contractor can fall back on if required.
A contract ensures both contractor and
customer know where they stand and what
the expected outcomes of the job are. It also
covers you against things that might have
been said, although not officially agreed.
19
AU T U MN 2 017
Verbal agreements can be legally binding,
but a written agreement is safer and removes
any misunderstanding.
When it comes to writing a contract,
there are some standard details you should
look to include:
• The name, address and telephone numbers of
both yourself and the customer
• Commencement and completion dates,
including penalties for late completion
• The technical details, plans and materials that
will be used
• Details of any permits or council authorisation
needed to commence the project, and who will
apply for them
• Names of any subcontractors and details
about their payment
• A provision that the contractor will put right
any defective work and pay for any damage
to property
• A provision that part of the fee may be
withheld until work has been inspected and
any defects put right
• Agreement that the site will be left tidy
throughout and at the end of the project
• Payment details, including the total cost for
the job plus any deposits needed upfront and
how this will be paid
Having a clear and consistent paper trail
will save contractors both time and money,
and is something to refer back to should
any dispute arise. Clearly defined terms and
conditions will also provide assurances to the
customer and can set a business apart in terms
of professionalism.
Failure to have these in place from the start
can often lead to problems further down the
line, particularly when it comes to the time
to invoice. If the customer withholds monies
for whatever reason, the contractor has little
room to negotiate without a proper agreement
in place.
With customers now quick to use social media
to vent any frustrations, avoiding a dispute is
something all contractors need to be wary of.
If some simple business administrative
processes are implemented at the start, it
can lead to a lot fewer headaches at the end.
28/09/2017 10:59
 V EN T I L A T I O N

F
or a new home to meet the Contractors looking to install ventilation systems need
latest Building Regulations
in England and Wales, there to ensure equipment really does comply with Building
must be a ventilation system
installed as prescribed in Approved Regulations standards, says John Kelly
Document F1, Means of Ventilation.
Similar guidance is stated in the

appropriate regulations for Scotland
and Northern Ireland.
This is to ensure that excess
moisture created through everyday
living such as breathing, cooking
and showering, and indoor air
pollutants arising from textiles,
furniture and aerosols – which
are potentially harmful to both
occupants and the fabric of the
building – are properly extracted.
However, electricians and
ventilation system installers should
be aware that while some ventilation
manufacturers claim their products
comply with the latest Building
Regulations, in some cases the
performance might only be in
regards to a free-air environment.
Therefore, a fan may not perform to
the required standard when installed
as part of a system, which can
lead to a build-up of moisture and
pollutants over time.
When looking for an extractor fan,
installers should check the installed
performance data – a simple guide
is to look at the fan’s performance
graph. By using a provisional system
pressure of 10 Pascals, installers will
have a good estimate as to how the
fan may perform when it is installed
in the home, dependent on the
ducting system.
For installation advice,
accompanying the Building
Regulations is the Domestic
Ventilation Compliance Guide 2010
(England & Wales), which provides
tips and hints that can help avoid an
incorrectly installed system that can
severely impact the performance of
a fan. For xample, if flexible ducting
is being used, it needs to be pulled
taut to 90 per cent of its maximum
length and cut to a suitable length.
Squashed-up and crushed flexible
ducting creates increased system
pressure that a fan cannot overcome,
Meet the
standard
meaning the required installed
ventilation rates are not met.
By establishing that ducting is
clear of dust and debris, and that
the exterior grille has the required
90 per cent free area, installers can
ensure that a fan will achieve the
required installed performance.
The Building Regulations also
specify an undercut of 10mm on all
internal doors to enable effective
air circulation.
BEST PRACTICE
To test a fan for installed
performance, installers should
use suitable fan-test equipment
to ensure the ventilation system
performs to required standards. The
ventilation industry has developed
an agreed best-practice approach
using a powered air flow meter.
These instruments use a
pressure-compensating in-built
Best practice requires
the use of a powered
airflow meter
fan to equalise the back pressure
of the measuring device so that
accurate air flow measurements
are possible without further
complex calculations.
This should be carried out
on-site by a “competent person”
who has completed an approved
‘Installers should use
suitable fan-test equipment
to ensure the ventilation
system performs to
required standards’
ventilation installer course, such
as the NICEIC domestic ventilation
training and assessment, as well as
being registered with a competent
persons scheme for self-certification
of ventilation systems, such as
the NICEIC domestic ventilation
competent person scheme.
You can learn more about
installing and commissioning
ventilation systems by completing
the NICEIC domestic ventilation
training and assessment scheme –
check dates, availability and book
online at www.niceic.com
John Kelly is marketing manager at
Airflow Developments

20
AU T U MN 2 017

20_Ventilation.indd 20 28/09/2017 12:07

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22/09/2017 15:00
11:11
 C A SE ST U DY
National M&E firm Stothers had to tread a fine
line to incorporate all the required services into
the restored National Army Museum
BY ANDREW BRISTER
An armoured
Military
Humber Pig
Military uniforms
precision
I
through the ages t’s a treasure trove of military
history and artefacts. Lawrence
of Arabia’s robes, the Duke of
Wellington’s cloak, the skeleton
of Napoleon’s horse, and the coat
worn by the man who carried the
order to the front for the Charge of
the Light Brigade are just some of the
highlights to be found at the National
Army Museum in London, which
reopened this year after a three-year,
£23.75 million redevelopment.
The Insight gallery, one of
five permanent galleries Founded in 1960 by royal charter,
the National Army Museum is the
The entrance to the Society gallery
at the National Army Museum
22
AU T U MN 2 017
22-23 Case study Military.indd 22
British Army’s central museum, and
moved from Sandhurst in the 1970s
to a site on Royal Hospital Road in
the Royal Borough of Kensington
and Chelsea, adjacent to the Royal
Hospital Chelsea, home of the
Chelsea Pensioners.
Part-funded with a Heritage
Lottery Fund grant of £11.5 million,
the major overhaul, led by architect
and engineering consultant BDP and
exhibition design agency Event, has
opened up the original building to
dramatically transform the space.
Aiming to be a bridge between the
British Army and the public, the
museum is intended to encourage
greater public engagement with ideas
of defence and security, openly asking
questions to visitors and displaying
responses on large screens.
LIGHT RELIEF
There are now five permanent
thematic galleries – Soldier, Army,
Battle, Society and Insight – and
more than 2,500 objects on display,
two-thirds of which are on show for
the first time. The 500m² temporary
exhibition space opened with
War Paint: Brushes with Conflict,
displaying over 130 paintings and
objects. Completing the museum is
the Templer Study Centre, a learning
centre, brand-new café, shop and
Play Base, where children aged up
28/09/2017 11:00
 to eight can learn through play.
The £5.1 million mechanical
and electrical (M&E) contract for
the building services was won by
national contractor Stothers (M&E).
The firm, which has its headquarters
in Belfast and satellite offices in
Glasgow and Warrington, won
the work from main contractor
Gilbert Ash, a firm it has worked
alongside many times in the past.
It’s a complex project, one where
conventional M&E services needed
to dovetail with the audiovisual
packages essential to interactive
exhibits. “Co-ordination was
critical on this project and we’ve
worked closely alongside Event’s
AV subcontractor Atlas AV on the
installation, and exhibition space
lighting contractor Experience
Lighting,” says Neil Alexander,
electrical contracts manager at
Stothers (M&E).
While an outline design
specification was provided by M&E
consultant BDP, Stothers (M&E)
developed these further. “Most of
the packages on the electrical side
were contractor design proposals,”
explains Neil. These packages
include mains distribution, lighting
and lighting controls, the building
management system, fire alarm and
CCTV systems, lightning protection,
public address, data infrastructure
and cabling for the AV system.
Stothers (M&E) is also responsible for
the mechanical parts of the project
such as heating, ventilation and air
conditioning (HVAC).
The existing HV transformer in
the basement has been replaced
and is now housed in an external
transformer house, freeing up space
in the basement for new switchgear.
However, the switchover from the
old supply to the new had to be
carefully planned. “The client still
needed to occupy its existing offices
throughout the project, so we had
to maintain power, lighting and air
conditioning during the build, along
with a fire alarm system,” says Neil.
Electrical distribution through
the building is via two 400A rising
busbars running up from the
22-23 Case study Military.indd 23
Desert Rats
sculpture in
the atrium
basement to all floors. HVAC plant is
housed in a rooftop plant room: two
substantial chillers had to be craned
up onto the roof.
1,200: THE
AMOUNT CO-ORDINATED EFFORT
OF LINEAR Services distribution through the
METRES OF floors in gallery areas is via a ceiling
SUSPENDED
LIGHTING void. The design team wanted to
TRACK maximise the ceiling height so the
INSTALLED 1200 x 600mm ceiling tiles are
ON THE JOB
mounted into floating rafts hung
on 12mm rods suspended from the
structure. “All the services had to
be accommodated within that void,
so there was a lot of co-ordination
involved,” explains Neil.
‘For some of the display
cabinets it needed 10
guys to put in one pane
of glass, so these aren’t
going to be moved’
Lighting is a key part of the
installation and it is here that the
collaborative effort of the works
was all-important, with a crossover
between the general lighting
installation and the exhibition
lighting, installed by Experience
23
AU T U MN 2 017
Lighting. In the galleries, lighting
track is suspended between the
ceiling rafts. “There’s over 1,200
linear metres of suspended lighting
track installed throughout the project
for both the house lighting and the
exhibition lighting,” adds Neil.
There is also a host of interactive
display cabinets and screens that
light up as visitors approach.
Lighting controls in cabinets are
integrated into the AV installation
via a system from Pharos using the
DMX protocol. General lighting is
controlled by a DALI system from
Helvar linked to roof-mounted
daylight photocells. “The system can
be fully automated but the museum
also has full keypad control with
‘museum closed’ settings, ‘cleaner’s
lights’ and so on,” adds Neil. “Lights
can be dimmed down to 5 per cent
of output.”
With priceless artefacts on show,
many of the cabinets are closely
temperature-controlled so as not
to damage exhibits. Fire protection
is another vital component of
the project, and the fire alarm
system installed by Stothers (M&E)
combines conventional detectors
and sounders with a network of
aspirating air-sampling detectors.
Stothers has also installed an 18-zone
public address with the facility to
provide automated messages, to tell
visitors that the museum will be
closing in 15 minutes, for instance.
Access for maintenance was
another important consideration.
“We were provided with boxed areas
on the plans showing where the
exhibits would be and we needed to
avoid any maintainable services in
those areas,” says Neil.
“For some of the display cabinets
it needed 10 operatives to install just
one pane of glass, so these aren’t
going to be moved to access services
above. It’s also the only project I have
worked on in the past 20-odd years
where we had an actual flying pig
[an armoured Humber Pig] craned
onto second-floor level.”
Andrew Brister is a freelance journalist
specialising in the electrical industry
28/09/2017 11:02
 SEC URI T Y S Y S T E MS

The installation of door

entry systems and alarms,
often integrating with wider
home automation schemes,
is creating new options for
electrical contractors

BY DAVID ADAMS

24
AU T U MN 2 017

24-26 security systems.indd 24 28/09/2017 11:02

 MANY DOMESTIC OR COMMERCIAL
customers might require security
systems, ranging from burglar
alarms and security cameras to
door entry, access control and CCTV
systems. Many can now work with
IP-based electronics that allow these
and other security functions to be
knitted together, and controlled and
monitored remotely via smartphone
or tablet apps.
Being able to work with such
technologies means another set
of services to offer to clients and a
potential route to more electrical
work. It could also lead to taking
on more work on a project, from
wiring through to lighting, alongside
installing security systems. This is
an arrangement that might also
be more preferable for a developer
or property owner than having all
these tasks being carried out by
various companies. Some firms may
also want to set up maintenance
contracts, offering the potential for
ongoing work.
Some contractors now split
the work of installation between
electricians – who work with basic
equipment and some more complex
systems – and specialist contractors
with the skills needed to complete
the commissioning and testing
required for more advanced systems.
Although many types of security
systems are now becoming easier
to install than was once the case,
12%
The amount of contractors
who say they are very
confident advising on smart
security products
24-26 security systems.indd 25
if you want to build a reputation
for installing high-quality security
systems you will need in-depth
specialist product knowledge.
A wide range of both product-
specific and more generic training
is available from manufacturers,
training providers such as City
& Guilds, and security industry
organisations. It is also worth
consulting guidance on the subject
published by the British Security
Industry Association.
IP INTEGRATION
When it comes to the more
advanced systems, arguably the most
important skill-set is now the ability
to work with IP technologies, to
link together systems such as access
control, door entry panels, CCTV,
burglar or fire alarms and lighting.
This can also add capabilities to
functions such as access control
and door entry. Technology
provider Urmet has developed a
call forwarding system, Call2U, that
allows individuals to answer calls
from the door entry phone via a
touchscreen inside the property,
and even to open doors and
gates remotely.
“You can answer the door even
if you’re not there, you can take a
snapshot of the person who’s there,
or they can leave a video message,”
says Manji Gami, managing director
at Urmet. “If you have other IP
cameras on the system you can link
to them and scroll around to see if
there is anyone else at the door.”
The fact that the technologies are
largely wireless can also simplify
installation and maintenance.
A growing number of contractors
25
AU T U MN 2 017
‘When the door
entry monitor is not
being a door entry
monitor it’s just
another touchscreen
sitting on the wall,
begging to be used for
home automation’
are also benefiting from having
developed the capability to integrate
IP-based security systems with
other home automation or building
management systems. The ability
to work with the latter type of
technologies may also allow you to
steal a march on many of your direct
competitors: at present only 12 per
cent of people in the trade describe
themselves as “very confident” about
offering customers advice about
smart security products, according
to the results of a recent survey by
Electrical Direct.
IP technology has made
integration with such technologies
more straightforward, allowing
integrated control of functions such
as lighting, heating and ventilation
and even control of some gadgets
in the home, alongside security
functions. Urmet uses a modular
28/09/2017 11:03
 SEC URI T Y S Y S T E MS
technology called Yokis that allows
installers to put together multiple
smart home features operated from
a single system.
“When the door entry monitor
is not being a door entry monitor
it’s just another touchscreen sitting
on the wall, begging to be used for
home automation,” says Gami. “If
you can fit everything onto the one
touchscreen – switch your lights
on, get your heating and ventilation
working too – then why not? There’s
nothing so complicated about these
systems that would mean you had to
bring in a specialist – it’s all within
the control of the contractor.”
Lighting control can also act as
another security technology, by
offering the option to turn lights on
and off automatically, as if someone
were at home.
SECURE THINKING
After being employed by
security technology companies,
James Perkins set up his own
security equipment installation
company, Q-Tec, and often worked
closely with electrician John
Leonard, a subcontractor for his
former employer. Eventually, after
several years of subcontracting
each other, they decided that
it made sense to amalgamate
their companies.
Their new company,
Q-Tec Solutions, was
formed in 2009. It now
has 10 employees,
carries out electrical
work of all kinds, and
installs access control,
door entry, intercom,
CCTV, alarms and security
lighting systems for clients
in London and south-east
England. Perkins says that in
some months 70 per cent of
the firm’s work is security-
24-26 security systems.indd 26
based and only 30 per cent electrical
work, but in other months the ratio
is reversed.
Although the firm has some
domestic clients, most of its work is
for commercial clients, on projects
such as office installations. In
some cases access control, door
entry and CCTV are installed as a
fully integrated, IP-based system,
enabling straightforward remote
monitoring of properties. “As the
systems get more advanced, they’re
generally getting easier to install,”
says Perkins.
He believes IP-based systems
will dominate the market in the
future. Meanwhile, the growing
capabilities of such technologies to
offer security functions at low prices
is also driving more competition
and innovation in the market, which
he thinks can only be good news
for contractors. “The equipment is
getting better, and the marketplace
is becoming very aggressive, with
more companies coming into the
market, so prices are dropping,”
he says.
So, if you’re not working
with any security technologies
at all, this may be an area worth
investigating. What does seem
clear is that the link with the IP-
based home/building automation
technologies means this is likely
to be a valuable source of work
for a growing number of
contractors in future.
David Adams is a freelance
business journalist
‘There’s nothing so complicated about
these systems that would mean you had
to bring in a specialist’
26
AU T U MN 2 017
Case study:
Bocking Electrical
-
Bocking Electrical, based in Braintree in
Essex, was founded four years ago by Brian
Kelly and Gary Worthington, who each have
more than 35 years’ experience working in
the electrical industry.
Installing security equipment is
something the company has offered
from day one, but it is usually completed
as part of a broader packaged service,
such as when the company is doing all
the electrical contracting on small-scale
housing developments.
Kelly thinks that the ability to be able
to install security systems alongside other
electrical work seems to have become
increasingly important over the years
“because more people are looking for more
secure living environments”.
Technologies that Bocking installs include
Urmet’s Call2You systems. Kelly says he was
impressed recently when he was working on
a site in north Essex and the client was able
to open an electric gate on the property with
an app on his smartphone – while on holiday
in Malta.
Installing systems that can also control
heating and ventilation is attractive to
clients: Kelly cites one who owns a holiday
cottage in Devon and is delighted to be
able to use the app-based system to turn
the heating on more than a day before he
arrives, because the small stone cottage
usually takes that long to warm up.
28/09/2017 11:03
 Because
there’s no
room for
doubt.

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most rigorous quality standards for total peace of mind when the job’s done. It’s just one of the reasons
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That’s why Professionals choose Prysmian.

p27_CON.Aut17.indd 27 22/09/2017 11:12

 P OW E R T O O L S

Tools for
success

Every electrical
contractor will
rely on efficient tools
to get the job done, and
power tools are a vital
part of their equipment

BY ROB SHEPHERD

28
AU T U MN 2 017

28-30 Tools.indd 28 28/09/2017 11:03

 I
n the 17th century, the English
historian Thomas Fuller wrote
that there was “no good workman
without good tools” – a statement
as true today as it was back then.
Readers will therefore have great
sympathy for Andrew Bickel, who
earlier this year was fixing a faulty
light at the Catwel cat rehousing
charity shop in Cardiff. After going
to his van for a couple of minutes, he
returned to discover that the lady in
the shop had sold £200 worth of his
tools for just £1. Clearly, not everyone
understands the real value of this type
of equipment.
As the economic recovery has
taken hold, demand is growing for
power tools, and cordless variants
have become much more common
in recent years. “Today it is very
much 60:40 in favour of cordless
machines,” says Kevin Brannigan,
marketing manager at Makita UK.
“At the heavier end of the spectrum,
a mains power source is essentially
required, although increased battery
capacities and current developments
in brushless motor technology
indicate that cordless is the future
for tools.”
CUT THE CORD
The growth of cordless devices
is down to two key elements.
Innovation and design development
has accelerated, offering machines
that have become ever more compact
and lighter, but deliver levels of
power previously only obtained from
AC motors and mains power. Batteries
have also advanced dramatically,
with lithium-ion bringing fast
charging, extended run-times and
battery longevity.
“6.0Ah batteries charge in just 38
minutes, giving electricians with
two batteries in their kit an almost
permanent power supply,” explains
Simon Miller, brand and product
manager for Hitachi Power Tools.
“These batteries have a long life, with
up to 1,500 charge cycles expected
and, just as importantly, these
batteries are lightweight too, reducing
fatigue on any high-volume drilling
work electrical contractors may face.”
In addition to the introduction
of 6.0Ah batteries, manufacturers
are developing extremely efficient
electric motors to increase the
performance of their products. “As
an example, the Makita DTD170
impact driver, powered by the 18v
137: THE NUMBER brushless motor, generates 175Nm of
OF PEOPLE KILLED torque,” says Brannigan. “To put this
AT WORK IN THE in context, you need just 70Nm of
12 MONTHS TO
APRIL 2017 torque to tighten the wheel nut on a
Ford Transit van correctly.”
With more choice than ever before,
many contractors make their existing
brand their default option when it
comes to upgrading, or at least buy
a model that is compatible with any
existing tools. There can be good
reasons for this, says Eric Streuli, UK
training manager for Bosch Power
Tools. “Tool compatibility will make
life less complicated and allow the
user to economise on the number of
different batteries and accessories
needed,” he says. “Also, don’t skimp
on safety features and remember that
the purchase price is only part of a
tool’s lifetime cost.”
The same logic applies to
accessories, says Chris Bull, managing
director of Fein. “As the accessory
is the only item that comes into
contact with the tool, selecting the
‘The biggest safety issue in
hand tools today is poor-quality,
dangerous tool products flooding
the market from the East’

29
AU T U MN 2 017

28-30 Tools.indd 29 28/09/2017 11:03

 P OW E R T O O L S
correct device for a particular task
is vitally important,” he points
out. “It will not only improve the
quality of work but will mean that
the accessory will last longer than
any wrong or inferior product.
Also, it will ensure that wear and
tear on both the power tool and
the operator will be reduced.”
Anyone who thinks that the
issue of health and safety at work
is overplayed should consider the
fact that in the 12 months to April
2017 there were 137 people killed
at work, according to the Health
and Safety Executive (HSE), and
the construction sector is one
where no-one can afford to take
any chances.
28-30 Tools.indd 30
1,500: THE
APPROXIMATE
NUMBER OF TIMES
A 6.0AH BATTERY
CAN BE CHARGED
There are a number of safety
issues to consider around power
tools, says Streuli. “The three I
would highlight are vibration,
kickback and dust,” he says.
“Hand-arm vibration syndrome
is a form of nerve damage that
develops gradually and initially
goes unnoticed.
“Kickback is what happens
when a drill bit, grinding disc
or saw blade is suddenly stopped
by something unexpectedly
resistant in the material on
which the tool is working.
Rotation is immediately
transferred to the tool itself,
resulting in twisted, torn and
broken arms or redirection of the
cutting edge on to the user.
“Last, but certainly not least,
the HSE estimates that around
12,000 people die each year from
respiratory diseases caused by the
working conditions they faced at
some time earlier in their life.’
TAKING PRECAUTIONS
To minimise the risk of hand-arm
vibration syndrome, it is advisable
to use tools with vibration control
or damping. These will extend the
safe daily period for using the tool,
as well as making operation more
comfortable and reducing fatigue.
‘Tool compatibility will allow the user to
economise on the number of different
batteries and accessories needed’
30
AU T U MN 2 017
Kickback injuries can be avoided
by choosing tools with advanced
control systems that detect sudden
movements and immediately
shut down the power. To combat
respiratory illness, dust should
ideally be extracted close to its
point of generation – this is usually
achieved by placing a vacuum
cleaner hose next to the cutting or
drilling point.
Tools also need to be looked after
in order to help ensure longevity.
Put simply, a well-maintained
tool will perform better and
more safely, and will last longer.
“No tool will last forever, but
regular maintenance will extend
its working life,” adds Bull. “For
example, when it comes to power
tools, simple procedures such
as blowing out the air vents to
stop the build-up of dust are well
worth doing.”
Health and safety concerns
aren’t just restricted to power
tools, and those using hand
tools need to pay just as much
attention to the issue. “The biggest
safety issue in hand tools today
is poor-quality, dangerous tool
products flooding the market from
the East,” suggests Peter Wabel,
category manager for hand tools
at Hultafors.
“I have witnessed hammers
where the head has become
detached from the steel shaft –
you can imagine the potential
consequences – and, likewise,
knives where the blade has
detached from the handle, and
chisel handles that have shattered
in use. The list is endless.”
Rob Shepherd is a freelance journalist
specialising in the electrical industry
28/09/2017 16:18
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p31_CON.Aut17.indd 31 22/09/2017 11:13

 CONTRACTOR PROFILE
What started out as a joke between
two apprentices led to the creation
of Nottingham-based Luro
Electrical, which has enjoyed
rapid growth since it was set up in 2011
GROWTH
SPURT
N
ottingham firm Luro Electrical was only
set up in 2011, but its roots can be traced
back almost 20 years, when company
founders Ross Cheeseman and Luke
Delrosso met at primary school. The pair took on
apprenticeships in the local area – after Ross had a
brief stint in accountancy – and eventually ended
up working for the same business.
“We’d always said we should set up our own
business and would joke about it while we were
doing our apprenticeships, but eventually we
thought we’d go for it,” recalls Ross, now 29.
Luke’s father ran a local kitchen-fitting firm and
helped spread the word, and the business started
off taking on domestic jobs in and around the
local area.
It didn’t take long, though, before the focus
shifted to larger, commercial contracts. “We didn’t
try to do that – it just found us,” says Ross. “But
once we had a taste of it we realised it was where
we wanted to go, and we started to become a more
professional company.”
The company’s big break was when local
building firm CLC Contractors approached
them to work on a job for housing association
Housing 21. “It was 12 or 13 weeks of work,”
recalls Ross. “We couldn’t believe it because we
were used to getting a few hundred pounds here
and there. It escalated from there; we took on
another electrician and we ended up turning over
£200,000 in our first year.”
The work with CLC led to other contracts with
local builders, and from there the pair targeted
32
AU T U MN 2 017
32-34 Contractor profile.indd 32
Co-founders of Luro
Electrical Ross Cheeseman
(left) and Luke Delrosso
newbuild developers, taking on projects for Strata
Homes, among others. This is now one of the main
focuses for Luro (the name derives from the first
letters of Luke and Ross); it currently has around
400 plots on various sites, including one for Strata
with 220 homes. “There are so many houses
being built around here at the moment,” he says.
“Although it’s really tight margins, it offers good
continuity of work; some of the projects are three
years long.”
CURRENT ACTIVITY
Today the business has four main areas of work,
part of a deliberate strategy to remain diverse and
protect against a downturn in any one sector. In
addition to continuing to work with local builders
on domestic projects and the newbuild contracts,
it is also branching into refurbishment work,
IMAGES: TIM GEORGE/UNP
where it has already picked up a number of high-
profile clients.
“We’re doing a lot of work for the Ministry of
Defence, Premier Inn and Center Parcs – we’ve just
won a project at Sherwood Forest holiday village
which is worth £100,000,” says Ross. “It’s not the
biggest project we’ve done but it’s an eight-year
28/09/2017 11:04
 project, doing light refurbishment on the lodges,
so changing some of the smoke alarms, upgrading
the lighting to LED, and installing USB sockets and
media hubs for home automation.”
This kind of work is increasingly taking the
business further afield; it has taken on work in
Birmingham and Sheffield, as well as its Midlands
heartland, and has built up specialities in areas
including LED lighting, home automation and
both fire and intruder alarms. “We’ve just done
a big job at Mowbray Court for Housing 21 near
Melton Mowbray, where we wired a new call
system,” he adds. “It’s a sheltered complex with
about 40 flats. It had a brand new addressable
fire alarm installed and all new LED lighting with
automatic dimming.
“That was a good project for us; it was a six-
month project worth about £150,000 by the time
it was done. They’re the kind of jobs we want, and
since then we have done three or four more LED
lighting upgrades for the same client because the
energy savings are massive.” Clients can often
see a return on investment on a £20,000 project
within two years, he adds.
A final area is testing and producing condition
32-34 Contractor profile.indd 33
reports, which can see it take on work all over
Company the country, often on behalf of large estate agents,
Luro Electrical including Connells, for which it now does all
Established condition reporting and repairs. “Last year we did
2011 in excess of 700 condition reports, so it’s a fair
Major projects chunk of our business and there are obviously
Strata Homes, remedial works that can come from that too,”
Ministry of Defence, says Ross. “We’ve been approached by housing
Premier Inn, associations to carry out condition reports too.”
Center Parcs, The business has a full-time employee dedicated
Housing 21, Connells to ensuring the certification is completed
correctly, he adds, while the use of NICEIC’s
certification software has made it more efficient to
issue electronic certificates as a service to clients.
“It’s been a godsend for us,” he says. “We were
getting so many test sheets coming in and would
be typing them in at 11pm, but now the guys can
put them on the software themselves and the
‘We don’t tend to reflect on the fact that
we built it from two men in a van to a
£2 million-turnover company’
33
AU T U MN 2 017
28/09/2017 11:04
 CONTRACTOR PROFILE
qualified supervisors can review them before they
are finalised. It’s much more efficient and it looks
a lot better having the guys on the iPads.”
RAPID PROGRESS
The company has grown rapidly since it was first
set up, including by 40 per cent in each of the last
three years. Last year it turned over £1.6 million,
and is forecasting £2.2 million in the current
year. It currently employs 16 people, including
its two founders, five apprentices and a recently
appointed office manager, and also uses a further
eight regular subcontractors.
Apprentices are a focal point for the business,
a means of developing its own talent. “They’re
invaluable to us,” says Ross. “We try and leave
them with one electrician for at least six months
so they learn from them, and it’s got to the
point now where the electricians are all fighting
over them. There is a skills shortage out there
and trying to find electricians who are up to
scratch and knowledgeable is difficult, so we feel
apprentices are the right way to go.”
Luro Electrical took on its own premises in
2014, renting an industrial unit and office space in
Linby, just a mile from where Ross lives. “Before
that we were working from a spare bedroom
in my house,” he says. “All the materials were
stored in my garage so there would be four or five
vans ticking over outside at 6am.” The current
premises have the potential to cope with future
expansion, he adds, and have also helped to create
a better work/life balance. In the longer term, a
second office could be a possibility in the south of
England, he suggests.
Although the business has grown quickly, it is
entirely through organic growth, says Ross, and
the two founders have always maintained a tight
focus on cash. “When we first started, we were
really tight with our money, and didn’t take a
wage for three or four months, and to this day we
still take a lot less than the other guys because it
generates a bit of cash flow,” he says.
“We have some really good contractors who pay
on time all the time and that’s been a massive help
for us. We also use independent suppliers, which
has really helped because we’ve been able to
agree 60- or even 90-day payment terms in some
instances, which has helped us take on bigger
jobs. We’re in a position now where we could
comfortably take on a £1 million job.”
BRANCHING OUT
Both Ross and Luke came off the tools a couple
of years ago – Ross to focus more on growing the
business, and Luke on project management and
32-34 Contractor profile.indd 34
Luke and Ross currently
employ 16 people,
including five apprentices
running jobs on-site. The time is approaching,
however, when more support will be needed in
running contracts. “We’re at the stage now where
we need to recruit a project manager, because at
the moment all projects are overseen by myself or
Luke, and we need to keep the focus on growing
£2.2M: THE AMOUNT
LURO ELECTRICAL the business,” says Ross.
HOPES TO TURN This involves setting up a mechanical division to
OVER THIS YEAR complement the electrical offering and enable it
to compete for larger projects. “It’s a scary thought
for us but to win the kind of projects we want to
that’s the way we need to go,” he says.
“We want to retain our existing customers,
but now we have some big names behind us it’s
allowing us to get our foot in the door with a lot
of other companies. I always say that while you’re
busy you need to get busier, because if it gets to
the stage where you get wrapped up in running
the business things can easily drop off. We’ve got
the momentum at the minute.” Winning an East
Midlands Chamber Business Award in September
has also boosted the firm’s profile, he says.
Despite the company’s rapid growth, however,
Ross refuses to get carried away. “We don’t tend to
reflect on the fact that we built it from two men
in a van to a £2 million-turnover company, and I
think that’s part of our success,” he says. “We’re
quite hard on ourselves, and we’re always trying to
do better. But we love coming in every day, and it’s
still a buzz for us every time we win a project. We
get a lot of job satisfaction.”
Nick Martindale is editor of Connections.
£1m Could your business feature in our contractor profile
slot? Email contractorprofile@redactive.co.uk
The size of
job Luro now
believes it could
take on
28/09/2017 11:05
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 technical
Your industry-leading
reference guide to
technical information
38 Ask the experts
Answers to some of the more frequently asked questions put to our Technical Helpline

40 Safe isolation – A fundamental safety requirement

It is essential that persons carrying out electrical installation work or electrical
maintenance have a sound knowledge of safe isolation procedures

42 Replacing a customer unit in a domestic premises

Reminding contractors of the factors that should be taken into consideration
as a part of a consumer unit replacement

47 Apprentice Corner THE NICEIC AND ELECSA

PUBLISHING TEAM
Focusing particularly on impedance and how it affects the
Tim Benstead
voltage-drop on the supply cables when electrical loads principal technical author
Jonathan Elliott
having a poor power factor are connected senior technical author
Terry Bratley
technical author
52 Circuit-breakers Derek Cooney
technical author
Explaining the meaning of the numbering and lettering Chris Long
technical engineer
used on low-voltage circuit-breakers. By understanding the Mike Burling
senior engineer
marking, the correct protective device can be selected for the Alex Whitworth
particular application and environmental conditions technical illustrator

HELPLINE
57 Selectivity between overcurrent devices John O’Neill
Investigating selectivity between fuses and between technical engineering manager
Sam Donaghy
protective devices of diffent types, including a worked technical helpline engineer
Stuart McHugh
example of a selectivity assessment technical helpline engineer
Duncan McFarlane
technical helpline engineer
62 Snags & Solutions Norman Bradshaw
technical helpline engineer
A practical guide to everyday electrical problems Mark Cooper
technical helpline engineer
Richard Atkins
technical standards engineer
Mark Barnes-Rider
technical helpline engineer
Craig Kemp
technical helpline engineer
Craig Cunningham
technical helpline engineer

37
AU T U MN 2 017

37 Technical Autumn 2017_.indd 37 28/09/2017 11:05

 T E C HN I CAL
Ask the
experts
We continue with our series of answers
to some of the more frequently asked
questions put to our Technical Helpline
Q UE STIO N
A single incoming PME supply
is provided to a building
which has been converted
into a block of flats. Do I
need to bond the extraneous-
conductive-parts within
each flat?
A N SW E R
Yes. Although the supplies
from the intake position to
the individual flats will have
a separate neutral and earth,
main equipotential bonding
between metallic services,
extraneous metalwork and the
earth terminal should be carried
out in accordance with BS 7671
to ensure that no harmful
potential differences appear
between exposed-conductive-
parts and extraneous-
conductive-parts within the
customer’s premises under
fault conditions.
Because a PME earth terminal
has been provided at the intake
position, the bonding in the
individual flats will have to meet
the requirements of BS 7671 for
where PME conditions apply;
that is, the main protective
bonding conductors will be sized in relation to the neutral of the supply to the
building and not that of the neutral entering the flat.
This sizing requirement would apply to either a separate protective bonding
conductor or to the earthing conductor connected to the earthing terminal of
the flat if it was also being used as the main protective bonding conductor.
Do you have a technical query? Call our helpline on 0333 015 6628
38-39 Technical Autumn 2017.indd 38
In a lighting circuit that
Q has no circuit protective
conductor is it necessary
to provide a protective conductor
at the metal back box to earth the
metal screws?
No. Whilst the metal screws
A securing a plastic switch-
plate to a metal back box are
exposed-conductive-parts as defined
in Part Two of BS 7671, Regulation
410.3.9 states that provision of fault
protection; such as protective earthing
where the protective measure of
automatic disconnection of supply
is employed; may be omitted for
‘exposed-conductive-parts’ which,
owing to their reduced dimensions
(approximate maximum of 50 mm x
50 mm) or their disposition, cannot
be gripped or come into significant
contact with a part of the human body
and provided that connection with
a protective conductor could only
be made with difficulty or would be
unreliable. A note to this regulation
cites screws and other fixings
amongst the examples of where this
exemption applies.
38
AU T U MN 2 017
QU E S T I ON
Are there any special
requirements for electrical
installations associated
with hot tubs?
ANS WE R
Hot tubs are not included in any
special location, such as swimming
pools or rooms containing a bath
or shower. As such, as with any
installation, the general rules of
BS 7671 must be applied when they
are installed.
However, if a hot tub is
installed in what is recognisably a
location containing a bath and/or
shower, the relevant requirements
of Section 701 should be applied.
Similarly, if the hot tub is installed
in what is recognisably a location
containing a swimming pool, any
applicable requirements of
Section 702 should be also applied.
As ever, the recommendations of
the manufacturer should also be taken
into consideration.
QU E S T I ON
Is it permissible to have a consumer
unit in a room containing a bath
or shower if it is in a cupboard in
the room?
ANS WE R
Yes. Regulation 701.32.1 states
that doors and fixed partitions
can limit the extent of the location
and its zones. This would include
the walls and doors of a cupboard
within the location.
Where a consumer unit is
installed in a cupboard or other
confined space, an assessment
should be made to determine that
there is ventilation sufficient to
prevent a build-up of heat or
humidity likely to cause a detrimental
influence on the consumer unit or
installed protective devices.
Whilst there may be occasions
where it is unavoidable to install a
consumer unit in such a location,
NICEIC recommends that the
consumer unit is not installed within
a room containing the bath/shower
where an alternate siting location
is available.
28/09/2017 11:08
 Q UE STIO N

Is it necessary to determine the prospective

fault current in an electrical installation in
domestic premises?

A N SW E R

Regulation 434.1 states that the prospective • the maximum prospective fault current
fault current should be determined at every at the origin of the supply declared by
relevant point of the installation by calculation, the Distribution Network Operator is
measurement or enquiry. 16 kA, and
However, it is not necessary to measure or • a type II fuse to BS 88-3 (or, in older
calculate prospective fault current in domestic installations, a BS 1361) of rating not
or similar premises, either at the origin or final exceeding 100 A is installed in the
circuits, where all the following conditions service cut-out.
are met:
• a consumer unit to BS EN 61439-3 Where all the conditions above are met,
(Annex ZB) is used, the arrangement is considered to be
• only protective devices and other equipment adequate for up to 16 kA regardless of
that has been covered by the certification of the actual rating of the protective devices
the organisation responsible for the original and other equipment within the consumer
design and verification of the assembly are unit assembly. This is sometimes referred
installed within the consumer unit, to as a conditional rating.

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39
AU T U MN 2 017

38-39 Technical Autumn 2017.indd 39 28/09/2017 11:08

 T E C HN I CAL
Safe isolation –
A fundamental
safety requirement
O B JE C TIVE
It is essential that persons carrying out electrical
installation work or electrical maintenance have
a sound knowledge of safe isolation procedures.
Persons carrying out isolation procedures must also
have the necessary equipment and practical skills to
perform these procedures safely.
Unfortunately, and as is demonstrated by recent
prosecutions, there are still a significant number of
failures to perform safe isolation procedures prior
to work being carried out. Sentencing guidelines for
health and safety offences committed in England and
Wales were amended recently, encouraging harsher
sentencing penalties.
Prosecutions
On March 7th 2012, an electrical contracting
company and its Managing Director were
prosecuted at Westminster Magistrates’ Court
as a result of a number of failings in safety
practices. The failures resulted in an employee
of the company receiving an electric shock from
a junction box that had not been isolated prior
to work being carried out. As a result of the
incident, the man who was seriously burned
was hospitalised in an induced coma and
subsequently suffered memory loss.
The company director was fined £1 000
and ordered to pay £1 000 in costs for
breaching Regulation 14 (Work on or near
live conductors) of the Electricity at Work
POCKET GUIDE 5
Regulations 1989. The company itself was
fined £1 500 and ordered to pay costs of
£1 000 for breaching Regulation 4(1) of the
Work at Height Regulations 2005.
On January 16th 2009, the Health and Safety
(Offences) Act 2008 came into force. This Act
40-41 Technical autumn 2017.indd 40
GUIDE TO ISOLATION PROCEDURE
Step 1
T
OFF
Step 1
Check it is safe and acceptable (with the occupier/user)
to isolate. If the isolator is an off-load device, remove
the load. Open the means of isolation for the circuit(s) to
be isolated and secure the isolating device in the open
position with a lock or other suitable means.
Step 2
Prove the correct operation of a suitable voltage
detection instrument, see note (5), against a known
voltage source, such as that illustrated.
Steps 3 and 4 are shown overleaf
GUIDE TO ISOLATION PROCEDURE (continued)
Step 3
(steps 1 and 2 are shown overleaf)
Using a voltage detection instrument, check that there is no
dangerous voltage present on any circuit conductor to be
worked on. It is important to confirm that conductors are
not energized, for example, due to a wiring fault. Check
terminal voltages between: (1) earth and line, (2) neutral
and line (as shown) and (3) earth and neutral.
Notes:
a. In practice the equipment being worked on is likely to be
remote from the consumer unit, for example, a socket-outlet
located remotely from the means of isolation. In this case it is
necessary to check that all the socket-outlet contact terminals
are dead.
b. When checking for a voltage between an earth terminal and
live (including neutral) terminals, the test probe should make
contact with the earth terminal first, to reduce the risk of the
remaining probe becoming live.
NOTES (also see notes overleaf)
(6) The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require precautions to be taken against the risk of death or personal injury from
electricity in work activities. Regulation 12 requires that, where necessary to prevent danger: a suitable means is available for
cutting off the supply of electrical energy to any electrical equipment, and isolation of any electrical equipment.
(7) The Health and Safety Executive booklet HSR25 - Memorandum of guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 is
intended to help duty holders meet the requirements of the Regulations.
ESF Best Practice Guide 2
and NICEIC/ELECSA Pocket
Guide 5
40
AUTUMN 2017
increases the penalties and sentences that
may be imposed by the courts on persons or
organisations who are prosecuted under the
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and
subordinate legislation such as the Electricity at
Work Regulations 1989.
Furthermore, on February 1st 2016, new
sentencing guidelines were published in respect
of health and safety offences committed in
England and Wales1.
It is clear from the size of recent fines
given out by the courts that these are being
applied. For example, on October 21st 2016 an
environmental services company was given a
total nominal fine of £10 000 with £1 000 in
costs for breaching Sections 2(1) and 3(1)2 of
the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
following the electrocution of an employee who
cut into a live electric cable during asbestos
removal work.
The subsequent investigation into the incident
conducted by the Health and Safety Executive
(HSE) found that the company in question had
not taken adequate steps to ensure that the
electrical supply at the premises had been
isolated before the work started3.
Specific sentencing guidelines for Scotland are
being developed and although the guidelines for
England and Wales do not apply to offences in
Scotland they do appear to be being referred to
in sentencing north of the border.
Notes (also see notes overleaf)
(1) This guide gives information on safe working procedures for the
isolation of the supply of electrical energy to electrical
Guidance on safe isolation
Step 2
equipment.
POCKET GUIDE 5
(2) The example illustrated shows the minimum steps required to
isolate the final circuits supplied by a single-phase consumer
unit. The consumer unit includes an isolator and circuit-breakers.
(3) When circuits are protected by fuses enclosed in a distribution
board, remote isolation of the supply to the distribution board
may be required.
(4) HSG85 Electricity at work safe working practices gives detailed
guidance on devising safe working practices for people who
carry out work on or near electrical equipment.
(5) Guidance on voltage detection instruments is given in HSE
Guidance Note GS 38 – Electrical test equipment for use by
electricians.
A quick guide to safe isolation procedure
Amd 1: 2011
www.niceic.com
For further copies of this guide telephone 0870 0130382
or e-mail customerservice@niceic.com © Pocket Guide 5 rev 3 01/12
is given in NICEIC/ELECSA Pocket Guide 5,
which is available free of charge to
Step 4
NICEIC/ELECSA Approved Contractors and
Prove the voltage
detection instrument
again against the Step 4
known source to
check that it was
T
functioning correctly
OFF
when the circuit(s)
Domestic Installers via the secure area of the
were tested for the
presence of voltage.
Step 3
© Pocket Guide 5 rev 3 01/12
NICEIC website.
More detailed guidance on safe
isolation procedure is given in Best
Practice Guide No 2 – Guidance on the
28/09/2017 11:11
 management of electrical safety
and safe isolation procedures for low
voltage installations, produced by
Electrical Safety First in association
with the Health and Safety Executive
(HSE) and a number of other leading
industry bodies including NICEIC
and ELECSA. This can be downloaded
free-of-charge at:
www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk
The minimum required steps for safe isolation
are given below, based on NICEIC Pocket
Guide 5.
Step 1
Check with the occupier/user that it is safe and
acceptable to isolate. If the isolator is an off
load device, switch off the load. Open the means
of isolation for the circuit(s) to be isolated and
secure it in the open position with a lock or other
suitable means.
Step 2
Prove the correct operation of a suitable voltage
detection instrument against a known voltage
source, such as that illustrated. Guidance on
voltage detection instruments is given in HSE
Guidance Note GS 38 – Electrical test equipment
for use by electricians.
Step 3
Using the voltage detection instrument,
check that there is no dangerous voltage
present on any circuit conductor to be
worked on. It is important to confirm that
conductors are not energised, due, for
example, to a wiring fault.
1 www.sentencingcouncil.
org.uk
2 Section 2(1) of the Health
and Safety at Work etc.
Act 1974 states: It shall be
the duty of every employer
to ensure, so far as is
reasonably practicable, the
health, safety and welfare at
work of all his employees.
Section 3(1) of the Health
and Safety at Work etc. Act
1974 states: It shall be the
duty of every employer to
conduct his undertaking in
such a way as to ensure,
so far as is reasonably
practicable, that persons not
in his employment who may
be affected are not thereby
exposed to risks to their
health or safety.
3 http://press.hse.gov.
uk/2016/environmental-
services-firm-fined-over-
electrocution-of-worker
Check terminal voltages between:
(i) earth and line(s)
(ii) neutral and line(s) (as shown) and
(iii) earth and neutral.
Step 4
Prove the voltage detection instrument again
against the known source, to check that it was
functioning correctly when the circuit(s) was
tested for the presence of voltage.
Notes
1. In practice, the equipment being worked on
is likely to be remote from the consumer unit,
such as a socket-outlet located remotely
from the means of isolation. In this case it is
necessary to check that all the socket-outlet
contact terminals are dead.
2. When checking for a voltage between
an earth terminal and live terminals
(including neutral), the test probe should
make contact with the earth terminal first,
to reduce the risk of the remaining probe
becoming live.
3. When isolating the main source of energy, it is
also essential to isolate any secondary sources
of energy (such as microgeneration).
How can we help?
A DVD explaining the safe isolation procedure
and a range of products for use when carrying
out safe isolation are available for sale from
www.shop.niceic.com
NICEIC/ELECSA offer training relating to safe
isolation at their training centres and now also
offer an online training module.
For further details visit:
www.niceic.com/training/introduction

Fig 1 Guidance on safe isolation

Step 1
Step 2 Step 4

T T ON
ON
OFF OFF

OFF OFF

Step 3

41
AUTUMN 2017

40-41 Technical autumn 2017.indd 41 28/09/2017 11:12

 T E C HN I CAL
Replacing a
consumer unit in a
domestic premises
O B JE C TIVE
This article is written to remind contractors of the
factors that should be taken into consideration as a
part of a consumer unit replacement.
The replacement of a consumer unit may not
always be as straightforward as first envisaged.
For example, the new unit may not fit in the
existing position, protective earthing or bonding
conductors may be damaged or missing, or
the existing circuits may contain defects which
might prevent them from being reconnected.
Furthermore, addressing some circuit defects may
prove time-consuming and disruptive.
In view of this, before a consumer unit
replacement is undertaken, it is essential that the
Fig 1 Consumer unit replacement
42
AU T U MN 2 017
42-44 Technical autumn 2017.indd 42
condition of the existing installation is properly
assessed; taking account of the installation
records that are available and a procedure for
the works is agreed with the person ordering
the work (client). Where the replacement is an
emergency (a distress change); for example,
because damage to the unit has resulted in
exposing live parts, there may not be sufficient
time to fully assess the condition of the existing
installation. In such circumstances, the client
should be made aware that if circuit defects
are identified they will have to be addressed to
permit reconnection of the affected circuit(s).
Assessing the condition of the
existing installation
As required by Regulation 132.16, the adequacy
of earthing and bonding arrangements and the
rating and condition of equipment, including
that of the distributor should be confirmed. The
protective bonding conductors of an installation
designed to an earlier edition of BS 7671 may not
necessarily need to be upgraded, but where an
installation forms part of a TN-C-S (PME) earthing
system, the protective bonding conductors
should satisfy the minimum requirements of
Table 54.8 (Regulation 544.1.1 refers).
Whilst it may not be necessary for the
complete installation to be tested before
proceeding with the work, it is in the contractor’s
own interest that some inspection and testing,
such as insulation resistance testing to earth,
should be undertaken prior to the work to verify
the safety of the existing circuits.
In particular, it should be confirmed that
any items identified as a safety issue on the
previous periodic/condition report, coded as C1
or C2 or FI, have been satisfactorily addressed.
The age and types of connected loads should
also be considered. The client should be made
aware that in some situations the circuit may be
satisfactory to reconnect but the load connected
28/09/2017 11:08
 to it may not. For example, if the insulation
resistance of an older appliance, such as a
cooker, has over time significantly decreased,
then it may cause unwanted tripping of an RCD/
RCBO when reconnected. Consequently, whilst
the final circuit may be satisfactory to reconnect
to the new unit the item of equipment is not.
Where no electrical records are available for
the installation, the client should be advised to
have a periodic inspection carried out before
proceeding with the consumer unit replacement.
Isolation and protection of the
meter tails
Typically, the Distribution Network Operator’s
(DNO’s) sealed cut-out fuse is used as the means
of isolation for the meter tails in a domestic
installation (Regulation 537.1.3 refers). Therefore,
in advance of the work starting, arrangements
will need to be made for the DNO to withdraw
their fuse so work can commence, and to
reinstate and reseal the fuse once the work is
completed. In no circumstances should the
contractor withdraw the DNO’s fuse unless prior
authorisation has been obtained. Additionally,
the client should also be made aware of the
benefits of installing a double-pole isolator
in the meter tails so that the new unit can, in
the future, be conveniently and safely isolated
without affecting the DNO’s fuse. Depending on
the length of the meter tails, fault protection may
also be required.
Where the DNO’s cut-out fuse provides
overcurrent protection for the existing meter
tails, this is subject to the conditions imposed by
the distributor. In particular, the length of meter
tails is generally restricted to a maximum length
of not more than 3 metres; where necessary
confirmation should be obtained from the local
DNO. Where the existing meter tails need to be
extended or replaced with longer cables, due to
the new unit being located in a different position,
the DNO’s fuse should not be relied upon to
provide overcurrent protection (Regulations
433.3.1 and 434.2.1 refer).
In such circumstances, a distribution circuit
should be installed as shown in Fig 2, and
protection provided by an appropriately rated
fuse or circuit-breaker or a device that combines
the functions of isolation and protection, such
as a fused isolator. However, the installation of
an RCD to provide additional protection against
shock should be avoided, as its operation is likely
to cause disruption and inconvenience.
Note: In some circumstances temporary
supplies may be required to ensure the safety of
persons within the premises or to minimise any
power disruption for those who work from home.
If the meter tails are concealed in a wall or
42-44 Technical autumn 2017.indd 43
Fig 2 Isolation and protection of
the supply to a consumer unit
Remote consumer unit
SWA cable
(distribution circuit)
MAIN
SWITCH
Switch/fuse
Meter tails
Electricity distributor’s
cut-out fuse
partition then the requirements for protection
against impact must be satisfied (Regulation
522.6.202 refers). However, an RCD used to
provide additional protection against shock is
required to have a residual operating current
of not more than 30 mA, which means that
discrimination cannot be achieved between this
RCD and any downstream RCD housed within the
consumer unit. Because of this, the cables used
to supply the unit should be installed in such a
manner that avoids the need for RCD protection.
As shown in Fig 2, a cable that provides suitable
protection, such as a steel-wire armoured cable,
should be used.
Note: Where the position of the unit is altered,
the existing circuits may also require extending.
Where this is the case, the relevant requirements
of BS 7671 must be satisfied, in particular those
of Section 526 relating to Electrical connections
and Section 514 for Identification and notices.
Consumer unit
The replacement unit must satisfy the
requirements of Regulation 421.1.201. In addition
to complying with BS EN 61439-3, as amended,
the new unit and any associated switchgear
should be either made from a non-combustible
material, such as steel, or be enclosed within a
non-combustible cabinet or enclosure.
Where a metal-clad consumer unit is installed
in an installation forming part of a TT system,
an earth fault occurring between the incoming
line conductor of the meter tails and the
metallic enclosure, as shown in Fig 3, is unlikely
to disconnect the fuse protecting the tails,
43
AU T U MN 2 017
28/09/2017 11:08
 T E C H NI CA L
Fig 3 Risk of electric shock posed
by metal enclosure on a TT system
Distributor’s
meter
Fault
Fuse
Distributor’s
cut-out
Main
Earthing
Terminal
Earthing conductor
Installation
earth electrode
due to the high impedance of the earth fault
loop path and, as a result, persons may be at
risk of electric shock.
The installation of a second RCD closer to the
intake position may be one option; however,
such an action would lead to a selectivity issue
(unless an S-type (time delayed) RCD was used)
whilst still leaving part of the tails unprotected
(between the intake of the RCD and the meter).
Therefore, care should be taken with the
installation of the meter tails between the meter
and the consumer unit, and with the entry of the
tails into the consumer unit.
To minimise the risk of damage, the insulated
and sheathed cables should be kept as short as
possible and, where necessary, provided with
additional means of mechanical protection.
One method of limiting the risk of damage
to the sheath where it enters the consumer
unit might be to install some form of gland.
Readers are reminded of the requirements of
Regulation 521.5.1 regarding electromagnetic
effects in ferromagnetic enclosures.
For an existing installation there is no
requirement for the mounting height of the unit
to comply with Part M of the Building Regulations.
However, where the position of the unit is
intended to be moved to a different height/
location, compliance with Part M is advised,
wherever possible. Approved Document M1
recommends switches housed in the unit are
between 1350 mm and 1450 mm above the
floor level.
Where the unit installed is a dual RCD type
42-44 Technical autumn 2017.indd 44
as is usually the case, the circuits should
be reconnected to minimise the risk of
inconvenience (Regulation 314.1 refers).
Class I enclosure For such purposes, the power and lighting
circuits should be spread across the two RCDs
RCD
so that the operation of one of these devices
does not result in loss of all the lighting and
all the power on one floor.
To other
installation
metalwork
Certification
The replacement of a unit constitutes a major
Circuit protective alteration to an installation, so irrespective
conductors and
main bonding
of whether a periodic inspection and test
conductors is carried out prior to, or as part of such a
replacement, on completion of the alteration
an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC)
including the schedules of inspections and
tests must be issued to the person ordering the
work, to confirm the work satisfies the relevant
requirements of BS 7671.
The extent of the work carried out must be
recorded clearly on the certificate. Where the
installation comprises more than one unit, the
units should be uniquely identified to avoid
any ambiguity, and any defects that have been
identified within the existing installation should
also be recorded (Regulation 633.2 refers).
The replacement of a unit in a dwelling
in England and Wales is notifiable work, so
in accordance with Part P of the Building
Regulations such work must be certificated for
compliance with the Building Regulations.
For further information on this topic, refer
to the Best Practice Guide No 1: Replacing
a consumer unit in domestic and similar
premises, which can be downloaded from:
www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk
Summary
As discussed in this article, there are a number
of factors that may affect a consumer unit
replacement, including:
• the condition of the existing installation
• the arrangements for withdrawal of the
DNO’s fuse
• the suitability/length of the existing
meter tails
• issues of selectivity
Therefore, before a consumer unit is
1 Approved Document
replaced, the condition of the existing
M: Access to and use of installation should be determined and a
buildings, M4(2) Services procedure for the work should be agreed
and controls – 2.30 (a) with the client. On completion of the work,
Website: www.gov.uk/ an Electrical Installation Certificate
government/publications/
access-to-and-use-of-
should be issued and the work must be
buildings-approved- notified in accordance with Part P of the
document-m Building Regulations.
44
AU T U MN 2 017
28/09/2017 11:08
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p46_CON.Aut17.indd 46 22/09/2017 11:18

 T E C HN I CA L
Apprentice
Corner
The focus of Apprentice Corner in this issue of Connections
is impedance, and in particular how this affects the
voltage-drop on the supply cables when electrical loads
having a poor power factor are connected. This will be
reinforced through the use of examples.
It is worth noting that such considerations will rarely
be required in a domestic dwelling where the majority of
cable sizes are likely to be less than 16 mm2.
When reading this article, it will be useful to be able to
reference Appendix 4 of BS 7671.
Impedance v Resistance
Resistance is a measure of opposition to current
flow. In a steady-state condition the only
opposition to current flow in a direct current (DC)
circuit is resistance.
However, when considering an alternating
current (AC) it must be remembered that other
effects also need to be considered, such as
inductance and capacitance. The effects of
inductance and/or capacitance on a circuit are a
function of the supply frequency. The term used
to describe these effects is ‘reactance’ (either
inductive or capacitive).
Fig 1 Impedance triangle showing relationship
between circuit components and power factor
Resistance, Reactance and
Impedance terms
The terms resistance, reactance and impedance
require further consideration.
• Resistance: (symbol R and unit ohms (Ω)) is
present in all conductors. When alternating
current passes through a resistance, a
voltage drop is produced that is in-phase with
the current.
• Reactance: (symbol X and unit ohms (Ω))
is the opposition on circuit elements, most
notably in capacitors and inductors, to
a change in current or voltage. Reactance
is present anywhere magnetic (inductive)
or electrostatic (capacitive) fields exist and
its value is a function of both the elements’
inductance/capacitance, and the frequency
of the supply.
47
AUTUMN 2017
47-50 Technical autumn 2017.indd 47
When a circuit containing only reactance is
connected to an AC supply, the effect of the
rate of change of supply voltage causes the
circuit current to lag or lead the voltage by 900
depending on whether the element is inductive
or capacitive.
• Impedance: (symbol Z and unit ohms (Ω)) is
the total opposition to current flow in a circuit
containing both resistance and reactance
and can be determined using the equation:
Z = √R2 + X2. Impedance is present in the majority
of circuits supplied from an AC source. The AC
circuit current flowing through an impedance
will be out of phase with the supply voltage by
between 00 and 900.
The circuit power factor can be found using the
trig ratio; cosφ = ZR .
The relationship between these three
terms is shown in the impedance triangle
of Fig 1.
To enable the design current (Ib) to be found it
is important that impedance is determined. The
design current can be found from: Ib = U o
.
Z
Distribution and circuit cables
To model cable analysis, each line conductor
of the distribution or circuit cable can be
thought of as having a resistance R in series
with a reactance X as shown in the single-line
diagram of Fig 2.
Where the distribution or circuit
cable conductors exceed 16 mm², which
may often be the case in an industrial
or commercial setting, the tables for
current-carrying capacity and voltage
drop found in Appendix 4 of BS 7671 give
separate values of mV/A/m for z, r and x.
XL
Z)
ce(
d an
pe Reactance (X)
Im
(X =XL-Xc)
Ø
Where cosØ = power factor
Resistance (R )
Xc
28/09/2017 11:12
 UFHS Connections 210x280.ai 1 04/07/2017 11:45

p48_CON.Aut17.indd 48 22/09/2017 11:20

 Fig 2 Line diagram showing the
The purpose of providing individual values component parts of a cable
of r, x and z in the tables of voltage drop in
Appendix 4, is to permit an accurate assessment
of voltage-drop to accommodate loads having a Source voltage Load voltage

large inductive (for example induction motors) US R(Ω) XL(Ω) UL

or capacitive element. Typically, a load will be
inductive in nature. Ib

{
Appendix 4 (clause 6) of BS 7671 recognises (Design current) Zcable (Ω)
that where there is power factor in a circuit, the
calculated values will lead to a calculated value
of the voltage drop higher than the actual value.
Where the power factor of the load is not known,
the tabulated (mV/A/m)z values should be used
(Eq. 1 refers). However, if the load power factor is From Appendix 4 Table 4Ab, the
known, then using the tabulated (mV/A/m)r and maximum recommended voltage drop
(mV/A/m)x values will provide a more accurate should not be greater than 5 % of the
assessment of volt-drop (Eqn. 2 refers). See also nominal supply voltage1. In the example
Clause 6 of Appendix 4 of BS 7671. above this would equate to 20 V; assuming
5 V has been dropped in the distribution
Eqn. 1 cable, using equation 1 would have resulted
Load power factor not known; in an oversized cable being installed (5+16=21 V).
(mV/A/m)z
voltage drop = ×Ib×L Scenario
1 000 Your company has been asked to design
the installation for an induction motor to
Eqn. 2 drive a compressor. It is expected the rating
Load power factor known; of the motor will be 100 kW having a power
cosφ × (mV/A/m)r + sin φ × (mV/A/m)x
factor of 0.8 lagging. It is to be fed from a
voltage drop = ×Ib×L 3-phase 400 V 50 Hz supply. The length of
1 000
run of the motor supply cable is 80 m.
When carrying out circuit design, using the load It is envisaged supplying the motor using a
power factor will be more accurate and may result multicore XLPE armoured cable mounted on a
in a smaller conductor size. perforated cable tray. Protection is afforded by
fuses to BS 88-2.
Example
Consider a 100 kVA three-phase induction Contractor’s considerations
motor having a design current of 144 A with a Whilst this article’s primary focus
power factor of 0.75 lagging and cable route is the consideration of resistance,
length of 120 m. From Table 4H4A a 70 mm2 reactance and impedance, any
aluminium cable has been selected and from designer would have to think about
Table 4H4B column 4, the mV/A/m values are; the following:
r = 0.90, x = 0.14 and z = 0.92. Assuming no other 1. What is the ambient air temperature
factors apply, determine the volt-drop in the in the room housing the compressor?
supply cable. • Should a thermal sensing device be
installed in the motor?
(100×103)
The design current (Ib); = = 144A • What insulation class of motor
(√3×400) should be chosen?
2. What will be the service duty cycle
(i) If the power factor was not known, equation 1 of the motor (BS EN 60034-1: 2010 refers)?
would be used: 3. What will be the most appropriate
0.92 method of isolating, starting, controlling
voltage drop = ×144×120=16 V and stopping the motor: star-delta,
1 000
soft-start or using a variable speed
drive (VSD)?
(ii) If the power factor is known, equation 2 would 4. What will be the noise level and
be used: 1 See also Section 525 which
will it exceed the occupational noise
0.75×0.9+0.66×0.14 gives a number of examples level standard?
voltage drop = ×144×120=13.4 V of where the volt-drop limits 5. Is there sufficient air flow in the
1 000 in Appx 4 may be exceeded. compressor room to aid motor cooling?

49
AUTUMN 2017

47-50 Technical autumn 2017.indd 49 28/09/2017 11:13

 T E C HN I CAL
The answers to the questions below are given on
page 63 of this issue along with some additional
explanations where necessary.
Multiple-choice questions
1. What difference will it make to the
current-carrying capacity of the
motor supply cable if the perforated
cable tray has very few perforated holes?
a) None. The tray will act as a large heat sink
and therefore aid the heat dissipation
b) The reference method will be unaffected
due to a XLPE insulated cable
being installed
c) A cable having a different outer sheath
would need to be installed to
prevent overheating
d) The reference method may change
which can result in a reduced
cable capacity
Questions 2 and 3 relate to Fig 1.
2. What will be the impedance of a 120 m
length of cable that has resistance of
1.9 m/m and a reactance of 0.14 m/m?
a) 0.229 Ω b) 0.2448 Ω
c) 2.448 Ω d) 0.227 Ω
3. What will be the phase angle and hence the
power factor of the cable?
a) Phase angle 85.77°,
power factor 0.0737 lagging
b) Phase angle 4.2°,
power factor 0.0737 leading
c) Phase angle 4.2°,
power factor 0.997 lagging
d) Phase angle 84.64°,
power factor 0.997 leading
4. Assuming there are no correction factors,
what will be the cross-sectional area of the
conductors in the motor supply cable and
which table of Appendix 4 is to be used?
a) 95 mm2; 4J4A b) 70 mm2; 4J4A
2
c) 120 mm ; 4H4A d) 95 mm2; 4H4A
5. Considering the power factor is known
and using the appropriate formula, what
is the voltage drop in the motor
supply cable?
a) 7.27 V b) 11.58 V
c) 9.3 V d) 12.23 V
6. If the ambient temperature was 35 °C,
what will be the volt-drop in the motor
supply cable?
a) 8.98 V b) 6.98 V
c) 9.34 V d) 11.74 V
47-50 Technical autumn 2017.indd 50
Area Engineer / Paul McKay
How did you become an area engineer?
I’m an apprentice-served electrical contractor,
having also spent 10 years maintaining and
repairing rolling stock for Siemens.
What does your typical day consist of?
Office, site and personnel assessment of electrical
contractors’ abilities against BS 7671 and
associated standards. I’ve conducted over 4,000
such assessments in my 13 years as an AE, in
domestic, industrial and commercial properties.
Paul McKay,
Surrey and West Sussex What are the main issues that
NICEIC and ELECSA contractors might forget or overlook?
employ 80 field team Lack of verification of existing arrangements,
staff across the country especially earthing and bonding requirements,
to assess contractors’
work and provide
safe isolation practices and test results for
up-to-date technical energised circuits.
advice. Here we turn the
tables and put them in What’s the strangest thing you have
the spotlight come across on an assessment?
Failure of the DNO to provide a source earth, giving
some very odd test results.
What’s the strangest request you
have had?
To conduct an assessment barefoot within a church
on grounds of religion. Unfortunately I had to refuse
on health and safety grounds.
What interesting jobs have your
contractors been involved with?
The roof of Canary Wharf, Sky satellite
transmissions plants, MI5 and MI6, prisons,
132kV primary substations.
What are your interests outside work?
Playing darts and keeping fit.
If you could have a superpower, what
would it be?
Spiderman, so I could access high points without
the use of ladders.
If you had a day off tomorrow, what
would you do?
Come into work as, like most of my colleagues,
I can’t leave it alone!
Favourite book, film and TV programme?
Jaws, The Exorcist and Little House on the Prairie.
What’s the best bit of advice you have
received in your career?
Instructions are for the guidance of the wise and
the obedience of fools.
50
AUTUMN 2017
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p51_CON.Aut17.indd 51 22/09/2017 11:24

 T E C HN I CAL

Circuit-breaker markings
O B JE C TIVE

The aim of this article is to explain the meaning of the
numbering and lettering used on low-voltage circuit-
breakers. By understanding the marking, the correct
protective device can be selected for the particular
application and environmental conditions.
Introduction
This is the second of two articles whose aim is
to describe the meaning of the numbering and
lettering manufacturers place on fuses and
circuit-breakers. In the first article, the information
written onto fuses was discussed with the
emphasis being directed at BS 88 fuse types.
Fig 1 Typical marking found on
circuit-breakers for AC operation
Manufacturer’s
name
B6
230/400V-
EN 60898
1 x 6000
I ON
3
0 OFF
2
1 BS EN 60898 has two parts.
0-OFF
2 The 0.5 A rating is only
The first part, BS EN 60898-1,
covers circuit-breakers for
AC operation in household
and similar locations. The
second part, BS EN 60898-2,
covers circuit-breakers
for AC and DC operation
in household and
similar locations.
available for circuit-breakers
having C and D curve
characteristics.
This article will focus on decoding the
markings on circuit-breakers to BS EN 60898
and BS EN 60947-2. The selectivity and
co-ordination between protective devices is
outside the scope of this article.
Circuit-breaker markings to
BS EN 60898
Clause 6.1 of BS EN 60898-1: 2003 (as amended)
gives the complete listing of markings that shall
either be found:
• placed on each circuit-breaker, either on its
front, side or back, or
• published in the manufacturer’s
documentation.
BS EN 608981 devices are for operation at
50 Hz or 60 Hz, having a rated voltage not
exceeding 440 V (between phases), and have
typical current rating from 0.5 A2 to rated
current not exceeding 125 A and a rated short-
circuit capacity not exceeding 25 000 A
(Clause 1 of that standard refers). The
characteristic curves for BS EN 60898 given
in Appendix 3 of BS 7671 include the preferred
current ratings starting at 6 A. For characteristic
curves for circuit-breakers outside of this range,
manufacturer’s data must be consulted.
The BS EN 60898 range of circuit-breaker
would normally be the final overcurrent
protection measure in the electrical system,
for example protecting socket-outlet or lighting
circuits and other similar applications.
The name of the manufacturer or a trade mark
by which they may be readily identified must be
marked on all circuit-breakers.
The rated current (In) is shown without
the symbol "A", and is to be preceded by the
symbol denoting the instantaneous tripping
characteristic (that is Type B, C or D). The device
shown in Fig 1 has a rated current of 6 A and the
instantaneous tripping characteristic ‘Type B’.
The rated current value is always given for
an ambient temperature around the device
of 30 °C.
The voltage indicated shows that it can be
used single-phase (line-to-neutral) or three-

52
AU T U MN 2 017

52-54 Technical autumn 2017.indd 52 28/09/2017 11:10


phase, using 3 single-pole circuit-breakers
(3-wire or 4-wire).
The rated short-circuit capacity along with
the energy limiting class number is shown in
the rectangles. The short-circuit capacity of this
device is 6 000 A, and its energy limiting class is
3. The range of energy limiting class is between 1
and 3, with 3 being the lowest and 1 the highest.
From Table ZA.1 of BS EN 60898-1: 2003,
the permissible I2t let-through energy for a B6
circuit-breaker having an energy limiting class 3
is 35 000 A2s.
The symbol shown in Fig 2 indicates that
this circuit-breaker is fitted with a thermal
overload and a magnetic short-circuit trip relay.
This symbol will also be found on RCBOs to
BS EN 61009-1.
All circuit-breakers should be capable
of making, carrying and breaking currents
under normal circuit conditions and also
making, carrying for a specified time, and
automatically breaking currents under specified
abnormal circuit conditions such as those of a
short-circuit.
The CE marking indicates compliance of a
product with the appropriate directives of the
European Union (EU) and is marked on the
product or its immediate packaging.
Fig 2 Circuit-breaker
symbol voltages release mechanisms for example. The
window(s) provide a means for observing their
status, such as if they have tripped or an alarm
1 x has been activated.
The manufacturer’s name or trademark must
be clearly visible when mounted in position.
Rated current ( 80 A)
The 80 A shown on the switch is the value
of current that the circuit-breaker can carry
2 continuously without overheating or operating.
In BS 7671, this is given the symbol In. This
current value is always given for an ambient
temperature around the device of 40 °C.
If the temperature is higher, which might be
the case when mounted in a distribution board
with other loaded circuits or due to ambient
conditions; it may be necessary to reduce the
operating current.
Rated operational voltage (Ue)
The circuit-breaker shows rated operating
voltages (Ue) for currents Icu and Ics. This is the
voltage(s) at which the circuit-breaker can
be used. The value indicated is usually the
maximum rms value.

BS EN 60947 series
Part 1 of the BS EN 60947 series refers to Fig 3 Example of a circuit-breaker to BS EN 60947-2
general rules relating to low-voltage switchgear
and control gear; therefore, when completing
certificates or reports for example, it is
important that the correct BS EN number is
used. Part 2 of BS EN 60947 relates to the
product standard for circuit-breakers, the main
contacts of which are intended to be connected Lockable screw
to circuits, the rated voltage of which does not
exceed 1 000 V AC or 1 500 V DC (clause 1.1 of Window
that standard refers).
Manufacturer’s
Markings on circuit breaker to Name
BS EN 60947-2 OFF
BS EN 60947-2 circuit-breakers are for use by lcu 415 V ~ = 18 kA
skilled or instructed persons in industrial and lcu 240 V ~ = 25 kA 80A
lcs 415 V ~ = 18 kA
commercial settings. An example of such a
circuit-breaker is shown in Fig 3. IEC 60947-2
Clause 5.2 of BS EN 60947-2: 2006 (as PUSH TO TRIP
amended) gives the complete list of data
that should accompany each circuit-breaker. Ir (x In)
The clause stipulates which details should be
o.6

o.8
3

visible when the circuit-breaker is mounted in 1

its operating position. It is this data which will

be discussed.
The lockable screw provides access to allow
for additional auxiliary contacts to be added
either side of the main switch such as: alarms,
earth leakage devices, under-voltage or over-

53
AU T U MN 2 017

52-54 Technical autumn 2017.indd 53 28/09/2017 11:10

 T E C HN I CAL

Icu – this is the rated ultimate short-circuit switch which indicates physical separation of
breaking capacity at the corresponding rated the switch contacts (Regulations 537.2.2.1 and
operational voltage. The circuit-breaker must 537.2.2.2 of BS 7671 refer).
be able to clear the level of fault-current The circuit-breaker shown in Fig 3 indicates
indicated (18 kA at 415 V) but may not be that it has an adjustable thermal setting which
usable afterwards. can be varied from 63 % to 100 % in three
Ics – the rated service short-circuit breaking increments as shown in Fig 5 and is given the
capacity. The circuit-breaker should be able symbol Ir. Since there is no adjustment for the
to clear this current and remain serviceable magnetic (short-circuit) operation, it can be
afterwards. In this instance the values shown for assumed to be fixed, viewing manufacturer’s
Ics are equal to the values given for Icu but this data, this circuit-breaker has an instantaneous
is not always the case. The service short-circuit value of 10In.
breaking capacity can either be expressed in The push-to-trip button is a mechanical
kA or as a percentage of I. Should the circuit- device and is not to be confused with the push-
breaker be used where the supply voltage is to-trip button found on an RCD.
greater than 415 V, the breaking capacity values
for Icu and Ics will be significantly reduced. Summary
IEC 60947-2 – by writing this on the circuit- The details written on the circuit-breaker or
breaker, the manufacturer is claiming that there forming part of the accompanying documents
is full compliance with the standard. should contain sufficient information to
allow the contractor to make informed
Fig 4 Circuit-breaker decisions as to their suitability for use in a
symbol
particular application.
Circuit-breakers to BS EN 60898 are installed
to provide protection against overcurrent,
and are designed for use by ordinary persons.
Circuit-breakers to BS EN 60947-2 also provide
protection against overcurrent and are used in
the commercial and industrial sector where they
The vertical line on the symbol in Fig 4 shows are under the control of skilled persons only.
that the circuit-breaker is suitable for isolation; Circuit-breakers to BS EN 60947-2 are
marked ON and OFF positions which should available with adjustable thermal and magnetic
show even when circuit-breaker is installed, settings and are capable of having auxiliary
this is evidenced by the green strip on the contacts fitted.

Fig 5 Time/current graph for a circuit-breaker

having an adjustable thermal setting

0.63 8 1.0 Note.

The tolerance on the
thermal adjustment range
Thermal has been omitted for clarity
adjustment
range
Time

0.8
Ir

0.63 1

xIn

Current xIn

54
AU T U MN 2 017

52-54 Technical autumn 2017.indd 54 28/09/2017 11:10

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 T E C HN I CA L
Selectivity between
overcurrent devices
O B JE C TIVE
The aim of this article is to investigate selectivity
between fuses and between protective devices of
different types and includes a worked example of
a selectivity assessment.
This article follows on from the introduction
to selectivity and co-ordination of electrical
equipment published in the last issue of
Connections which summarised the terminology
associated with selectivity and co-ordination
and introduced the methodology used when
looking at selectivity between various types of
overcurrent protective device. You may find it
helpful to have the earlier article to hand when
reading this one.
Selectivity between overcurrent
protective devices
As was stated in the previous article in this series
on co-ordination, in general where overcurrent
protective devices are connected in series, only
the device which is intended to operate; typically the
device closest to the point where the overcurrent
occurs should do so.
There are situations where it is essential to achieve total
selectivity and others where partial selectivity is sufficient
or acceptable. The following example demonstrates the
application of both total and partial selectivity
in a single installation.
Fig 1 Workshop project
overcurrent device layout
C in the consumer unit in the main dwelling
D
A B
57
AU T U MN 2 017
56-60 Technical autumn 2018.indd 57
Example of selectivity assessment
An electrical installation is being designed for a
small remote workshop situated at a domestic
premises supplied from a consumer unit in the
main dwelling. Details of the overcurrent protective
devices to be installed are shown in Fig 1.
Desktop study
Making use of typical installation design software
that references a database of manufacturers’
data on overcurrent protective devices will allow
an overlay such as the one shown in Fig 2 to
be produced.
Selectivity study between device A (100 A
service fuse) and device B (32 A Type B CB)
Where a fuse-link is upstream of a circuit-
breaker, selectivity in the overload zone will
be achieved if the maximum inverse/thermal
tripping time-current characteristic of the
circuit-breaker does not intersect with the time-
current characteristics of the fuse-link.
For fault currents leading to a disconnection
time of less than 0.1 s for fuse-links or
instantaneous for a circuit-breaker, the maximum
operating I2t1 value of the circuit-breaker is less
than the minimum pre-arcing I2t of the fuse-link.
With reference to manufacturers’ data:
• Pre-arcing for a 100 A BS 1361 Part 2 fuse is
26,900 A2s (26.9 kA2s).
• @ 3kA maximum let-through energy for a 32
A Type B circuit-breaker is 11,000 A2s (11 kA2s)
(see Table 1).
A = 100 A BS 1361 (or BS 88-3) service fuse
B = 32 A Type B BS EN 60898 circuit-breaker
C = 20 A Type B BS EN 60898 circuit-breaker
in the consumer unit in the workshop
D = 6 A Type B BS EN 60898 circuit-breaker
in the consumer unit in the workshop
28/09/2017 14:16
 T E C HN I CAL

Fig 2 Overlay for workshop

project (overload zone)

Device A
10000 sec 100 A BS 1361
or BS 88-3 service fuse

1 Hour

1000 sec

Device B
32 A Type B BS EN 60898
in the consumer unit in the main dwelling
100 sec

1min

Device C
20 A Type B BS EN 60898
in the consumer unit in the workshop
10s
Device D
6 A Type B BS EN 60898
5 sec circuit-breaker manufacturers curve

Table 1: Example maximum are connected in series with each other,

let-through energy at PSCC for selectivity will be achieved when one circuit-
‘B’ curve BS EN 60898 circuit-breakers breaker completes its breaking operation
before the opening command of the other
(kA2) becomes irreversible.
In 3 kA 6 kA 9 kA Circuit-breakers to BS EN 60898 have integral
6 5.9 10.5 15 direct-acting thermal/magnetic elements, and
10 6.5 12.2 21.5 during magnetic (instantaneous) operation
there is generally a negligible delay between
16 8.0 17.5 30
a short-circuit condition being signalled and
20 8.8 19.5 34 the point at which the opening command
25 10 21 38 becomes irreversible.
32 11 24 42 Two methods that should be used in a desk
study to determine whether or not selectivity will
As the energy let-through of the circuit-breaker be achieved between circuit-breakers connected
(11 kA2s) is lower than the pre-arcing of the fuse in series are:
(26.9 kA2s), this means that selectivity will be 1. in the overload zone, confirming there is no
achieved for fault currents up to 3 kA. In this 1 I2t is referred to in general overlap of the device time/current (inverse/
study, it can be seen that selectivity would also terms as: ‘let-through thermal curve) characteristics, and
be achieved for fault currents up to 6 kA. energy’ or ‘energy let- 2. for fault currents/instantaneous tripping, using
Looking at the overload/low magnitude through’. When expressed manufacturer’s data for peak current limitation
in A2s gives the energy
overcurrent region of the overlay (Fig 2) it dissipated per ohm. I2t is the
and tripping. Selectivity is achieved when the
can be seen that total selectivity is achieved integral of the square of the peak cut-off current of the downstream device
between the house service fuse and all the current over the operating is less than the minimum peak tripping current
circuit-breakers being considered in this project time of the protective (corresponding to the instantaneous tripping
device under fault current
because there is no overlap. level) of the up-stream device.
conditions. Therefore, I2t is
proportional to the thermal
Selectivity between the upstream and energy let through by the Circuit-breaker time/current characteristics
downstream circuit-breakers protective device under generally include tolerances; these should be
Where circuit-breakers to BS EN 60898 fault conditions. taken into account when assessing selectivity.

58
AU T U MN 2 017

56-60 Technical autumn 2018.indd 58 28/09/2017 14:16

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p59_CON.Aut17.indd 59 22/09/2017 11:29

 T E C H NI CA L

Table 2. A manufacturer’s selectivity data for Type B circuit- Selectivity between device B (32 A Type B
breakers. Highlighted for 32 A circuit-breaker upstream of 20 A CB) and device D (6 A Type B CB)
circuit-breaker With reference to the manufacturer’s data for
Upstream circuit-breaker rating (kA)
Type B CBs shown in Table 3, it can be seen that
the 32 A circuit-breaker has selectivity with the
In (A) 6 10 13 16 20 25 32 40 50 63 6 A circuit-breaker up to 150 A (0.15 kA); that is,
6 - 0.04 0.06 0.07 0.09 0.12 0.15 0.19 0.24 0.31 a current exceeding 150 A will cause both circuit-
Downstream circuit-breaker

10 - - 0.06 0.07 0.09 0.11 0.15 0.19 0.24 0.30 breakers to trip.
13 - - - 0.07 0.09 0.11 0.15 0.18 0.23 0.30 Looking at the overlay (Fig 2) it can be seen
that overload zone selectivity is achieved
rating (kA)

16 - - - - 0.09 0.11 0.14 0.18 0.23 0.29

between the 32 A and 6 A circuit-breakers
20 - - - - - 0.11 0.14 0.18 0.22 0.28
because their curves do not overlap.
25 - - - - - - 0.14 0.18 0.22 0.28
32 - - - - - - - 0.17 0.21 0.27 Conclusions
40 - - - - - - - - 0.21 0.27 Looking forwards to the publication of
50 - - - - - - - - - 0.26 BS 7671: 2018 (the 18th Edition), a requirement
63 - - - - - - - - - -
will be introduced that where selectivity is
necessary between overcurrent protective
devices, verification of the arrangement should
Table 3. A manufacturer’s selectivity data for Type B circuit-
be made by one of the following means:
breakers. Highlighted for 32 A circuit-breaker upstream of 6 A
• a desk study taking into account the relevant
circuit-breaker
product standard and the manufacturer’s
Upstream circuit-breaker rating (kA) literature; or
In (A) 6 10 13 16 20 25 32 40 50 63 • use of appropriate software tools where
6 - 0.04 0.06 0.07 0.09 0.12 0.15 0.19 0.24 0.31
information is provided by the manufacturers
Downstream circuit-breaker

for this specific use; or

10 - - 0.06 0.07 0.09 0.11 0.15 0.19 0.24 0.30
• testing in accordance with the applicable
13 - - - 0.07 0.09 0.11 0.15 0.18 0.23 0.30 product standard (in order to achieve the correct
rating (kA)

16 - - - - 0.09 0.11 0.14 0.18 0.23 0.29 test performances and reproducibility); or
20 - - - - - 0.11 0.14 0.18 0.22 0.28 • by manufacturer’s declaration that the
25 - - - - - - 0.14 0.18 0.22 0.28 arrangement is compliant with this requirement.
32 - - - - - - - 0.17 0.21 0.27
The worked example shows how the selectivity
40 - - - - - - - - 0.21 0.27
study for small installation design project could
50 - - - - - - - - - 0.26 be documented.
63 - - - - - - - - - - In the case of an installation such as the
one in the worked example, it is essential that
total selectivity is achieved between the fuse
The effect of standing loads on selectivity in the service head/cut-out and all overcurrent
in the overload has been considered to be protective devices of the installation. This will
negligible for this study. ensure that the service fuse does not operate
Where time/current characteristics are used unnecessarily, thus avoiding any need to make
in a desk study, account should be taken of the arrangements with the distributor to have the
reference ambient temperature applicable to the fuse replaced and the inconvenience of having
tripping curves. no supply during this period.
However, BS 7671: 2018 will require only that
Selectivity between device B (32 A Type B the mutual interaction between electrical devices
CB) and device C (20 A Type B CB) for overcurrent (or indeed residual current
With reference to one manufacturer’s data for protection) is considered in so much as it does
Type B circuit-breakers shown in Table 2, it not adversely affect the safety of the installation.
can be seen that the 32 A circuit-breaker has With reference to the findings of the example
selectivity with the 20 A circuit-breaker up to desktop study, and given the nature of the
140 A (0.14 kA); that is, a current exceeding installation, the lack of total selectivity between
140 A will cause both CBs to trip. the 32 A circuit-breaker at the upstream end of
Looking at the overload/low magnitude the cable supplying the workshop and the 20 A
overcurrent region of the overlay (Fig 2) it can be circuit-breaker protecting a final circuit within the
seen that partial selectivity is achieved between workshop at the downstream end of the cable is
the 32 A and 20 A circuit-breakers in the region very unlikely to constitute a safety issue and is
where their curves overlap. therefore acceptable in the circumstances.

60
AU T U MN 2 017

56-60 Technical autumn 2018.indd 60 28/09/2017 14:16

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p61_CON.Aut17.indd 61 22/09/2017 11:31

 T E C HN I CAL

Snags & Solutions

A practical guide to everyday
electrical problems
Now updated to Amendment No 3 of BS 7671

‘Snags & Solutions’, NICEIC’s problem solving books, are

now available in five parts, and cover many commonly
encountered electrical installation problems. All parts have
been updated, where appropriate, to take account of the 2005
2015

requirements of Amendment No 3 to BS 7671: 2008 (17th

BS EN 60898 BS EN 60898 BS EN 60898 BS EN 60898 BS EN 60898 BS EN 60898 BS EN 60898 BS EN 60898 BS EN 60898
Type B 16 A Type B 32 A Type B 32 A Type B 32 A Type B 40 A Type B 10 A Type B 6 A Type B 20 A Type B 20 A
BS EN 60947-3

Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations), which was published

BS EN 61008
6000 6000 6000 6000 6000 6000 6000 6000 6000

on 1st January 2015. 30 mA 100 A DP 230 V

Kitchen, Lounge

Kitchen, Lounge
Bedroom + Hall

Bedroom + Hall
Central heating

Fridge + freezer
Dining room

Dining room
Part 1 of Snags & Solutions addresses 53 problems relating

Lighting
Lighting
Shower
sockets
Cooker

sockets

supply
circuit

circuit

radial
to earthing and bonding. Part 2 covers 55 problems relating
to wiring systems. Part 3 covers 52 problems relating to
inspection and testing. Parts 4 and 5, which have recently
been introduced, cover 50 problems relating to emergency Information
lighting and 48 problems relating to domestic fire detection
and alarm systems, respectively.
required at a
The books are available from NICEIC Direct. distribution board
To give an indication of the value of these books, a snag and
solution is being covered in each issue of Connections. This
or consumer unit
issue addresses a snag from Part 3 – inspection and testing, A distribution board or consumer
unit should be provided with sufficient
relating to information required at a distribution board or information to indicate, amongst other
consumer unit. things, the type and composition of
each circuit.

snags and solutions snags and solutions snags and solutions snags and solutions
A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EVERYDAY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EVERYDAY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EVERYDAY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS snags and solutions A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EVERYDAY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS
A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO EVERYDAY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS

Part 1

earthing and Part 2

bonding 5th Edition
wiring
Amd 3: 2015
systems 4th Edition
3rd Edition
Part 5

Amd 3: 2015
Amd 3: 2015
Emergency Lighting 2nd Edition

to BS 5266 series BS 5266-1: Amd 3: 2015

3rd Edition 2016

62
AU T U MN 2 017

62-63 Technical autumn 2017.indd 62 28/09/2017 11:14

 Snag 7
The absence of a legible diagram, chart or table
may result in danger or nuisance, such as if Apprentice
someone inadvertently switches off the supply
to an important service, for example a lift.
Corner answers
Solution 1. Correct option is (d)
The information required at a distribution board For a typical perforated cable tray having at least 30 %
or consumer unit should indicate the particulars of the base occupied by holes, the reference method is E
of the installation. For example, simply labelling or F. However, where the whole percentage is less than
a protective device as 'socket-outlets' would 30 %, the reference method is taken to be C. Paragraph
indicate the purpose of the circuit but it would 7.2 of Appendix 4 of BS 7671 refers.
not be sufficient to provide information required
by Regulation 514.9.1. 2. Correct option is (a)
A convenient way of providing such information There are numerous ways in which this can be solved,
for a simple installation such as a domestic one such method is:
installation is by means of a separate copy of Impedance: Z=√(R2+X2 )=√(1.92+0.142=1.905 mΩ/m
the completed Schedule of Circuit Details for the Total impedance = 1.905×10-3×120=0.229 Ω
Installation (pictured below), which forms part of
the Electrical Installation Certificate and Domestic 3. Correct option is (c)
Electrical Installation Certificate. There are three trig ratios that can be used to answer this
question. However, since R and X was given it would be
X 0.14
sensible to use; tan φ = = = 0.0737
R 1.9
This certificate is not valid if the serial
ICN4/
(To the person ordering the work)

number has been defaced or altered

TO BE COMPLETED IN EVERY CASE
The phase angle: φ = tan-10.0737 = 4.2°.
SCHEDULE OF CIRCUIT DETAILS The power factor: cos φ = 4.2 = 0.997 lagging
FOR THE INSTALLATION
TO BE COMPLETED ONLY IF THE DISTRIBUTION BOARD IS NOT CONNECTED DIRECTLY TO THE ORIGIN OF THE INSTALLATION* 4. Correct option is (b)
P 100×103
Original

Location of
distribution board:
Supply to distribution
board is from:
No of
phases:
Nominal
voltage:
V Design current: Ib = = = 180 Amps
Associated
√3×UL×pf √3×400×0.8
Overcurrent protective device for the distribution circuit: RCD (if any): BS(EN)
Distribution Type: RCD No
Rating: A I⌬n mA
board designation: BS(EN) of poles:
As there are no correction factors and since the motor
CIRCUIT DETAILS starter will provide protection against overload,
Circuit designation Circuit
(see code below)

permitted by BS 7671
Max. disconnection

Overcurrent protective devices RCD

It ≥ Ib = 180 A. (Regulation 433.3.1 and clause 5.2 of
Circuit number

conductors: csa
points served
Type of wiring

time permitted

Maximum Zs
Number of

Short-circuit
Reference

current, I⌬n

Live cpc BS (EN)

by BS 7671
and line

Operating
capacity
method

Rating

Appendix 4 refers.)
Type

(mm2) (mm2) (s) (A) (kA) (mA) (Ω)

Using Table 4J4A select a 70 mm2 cable (columns 1 and 5).
First floor lighting
except bathroom

5. Correct option is (d)

As the power factor is known, equation 2 can be used:
if cosφ = 0.8 then cos-10.8 = 36.8699°
First floor
socket-outlets
so sinφ = sin 36.899 = 0.6.
7 New shower 10.0 4.0 40 Using Table 4J4B for 70 mm2 conductors; r = 0.96
and x = 0.135
0.8×0.96+0.6×0.135
Voltage drop = ×180×80=12.23 V.
1 000

Cable complies with Table 4Ab.

6. Correct option is (a)

Using Table 4B1, the correction factor for 35 °C is 0.96.
Ib 180
The tabulated current: It = = = 187 Amps
Ca 0.96
Using Table 4J4A: select 95 mm2 conductors;
Using Table 4J4B: r = 0.71 and x = 0.13.
➺

See Table 4A2 of Appendix 4 of BS 7671

CODES FOR TYPE OF WIRING
The correction factor for temperature is only applied to
A B C D E F G H O (Other - please state)
Thermoplastic Thermoplastic Thermoplastic Thermoplastic Thermoplastic Thermoplastic Thermosetting/
insulated/ cables cables cables cables
Mineral- (mV/A/m)r (Paragraph 6.3 of Appendix 4 refers).
/SWA SWA insulated
sheathed
cables
in metallic in non-metallic in metallic in non-metallic
conduit conduit trunking trunking
cables cables cables Page 5 of 5
0.96×0.8×0.71+0.6×0.13
* In such cases, details of the distribution (sub-main) circuit(s), together with the test results for the circuit(s), must also be provided on continuation schedules.
Voltage drop = ×180×80=8.98 V.
This certificate is based on the model forms shown in Appendix 6 of BS 7671 1 000
Published by Certsure LLP. Certsure LLP operates the ELECSA & NICEIC brands. © Copyright Certsure LLP (January 2015) See next page for
Schedule of Test Results
ICN4/9

63
AU T U MN 2 017

62-63 Technical autumn 2017.indd 63 28/09/2017 12:09

 10TH ANNIVERSARY SERIES

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p64_CON.Aut17.indd 64 22/09/2017 11:32

 P ROD UC T F O C U S

Danlers
Danlers introduces the EasyZAPP range of PIR occupancy switches, designed for the automatic control of lighting
or other connected loads. The products are remotely set-up or adjusted using a free app on an Android phone or
tablet. Working as presence detector switches, they can be adjusted for settings such as photocell override, time
lag and maintained lux levels (dimmable versions only). The phone or tablet can be used as a remote control on/
off override or to configure several EasyZAPP controls at the same time. Straightforward to install, they make use of
existing wiring, so are suitable for retrofit or new installations. www.danlers.co.uk / 01249 443377

Fluke GreenBrook
Fluke introduces the “Electricians’ GreenBrook Electrical has launched the
Basics in a Box”, consisting of the new VELA Advance LED fire-rated fitting
key tools needed by new and trainee to the market and hopes the new range
electricians. The Fluke Student Kit will become one of the highest-specified
comprises a Fluke T90 2-pole electrical tester, a Fluke SM100 products in LED fire-rated lighting.
socket tester and a Fluke 1AC non-contact voltage detector, These shallow 9W, IP65 LED fittings with a true 92Lm/W
together with a Fluke C1600 toolbox with lift-out tray, rubber output are easy to install with fixed, tilt and anti-glare options,
gasket, and five hook and loop straps to carry these and other also available in 3,000K and 4,000K with interchangeable bezel
tools. It is available until 31 December. finishes. Includes a dimmable LED driver.
www.fluke.co.uk/studentpromo / 0207 942 0700 www.greenbrook.co.uk / 01279 772765

Makita Marshall-Tufflex
Introducing the Makita SG1251J wall- Marshall-Tufflex’s sleek and modern power and
chaser, a high-specification machine data services solution, PowerPoles, delivered
with a 1,400W motor that will run style, versatility and price for a blue-chip
the 125mm blades up to 10,000rpm manufacturer’s new HQ in Bolton. PowerPoles
without load. The twin blades can be adjusted by the delivered power and data services to island
3mm wide spacers to form a channel from 6mm up to 30mm in and non-perimeter work stations. Installed
width. The wall-chaser has high-efficiency dust protection, an by W Portsmouth & Co of Luton, 170 white double-sided Series
aluminium blade case design for precise depth control and a 1 PowerPoles were fitted, together with RCD/MCB housing and
Super Joint System for motor overload protection. accessory boxes supplied by BEW Electrical, Bedford.
www.makitauk.com marketing@marshall-tufflex.com

Rolec Snickers
 
Rolec’s WallPod: EV charging range The Snickers 148-page catalogue
offers easy-to-use, low-cost, full has full details of this leading range
Mode 3 charging options for all electric of working clothes for professional
vehicles (EVs). Ideal for the home, tradesmen and women. This
workplace and business, these award-winning EV chargepoints workwear will work hard on site all year round, whatever the working
come ready to install with full internal wiring. Overload and fault environment you’re in. Choose from work trousers and jackets, tool
current protection is also included. WallPod: EV charging units are vests and carriers, and the innovative all-weather Layered Clothing
weatherproof, corrosion-resistant and CE certified, BSI certificated System. The latest full-colour brochure can now be downloaded free
to BS EN 60335-1 and available in a variety of colours. of charge at the web address below.
www.rolecserv.com / 01205 724754 www.snickersworkwear.co.uk / 01484 854788

65
AU
S U MME
T U MN
R 2 017

65-66 PRODUCT PAGES.indd 65 28/09/2017 11:22

 P RO D UC T F O C U S

SWA
SWA has won approval for its TQ range of copper tube terminals, and is now fully approved to BS EN 61238–1: 2003.
The SWA TQ range now fulfils regulatory requirements in electrical performance, traceability, physical size,
copper content, tensile testing, wall thickness, and sufficient space to crimp adequately. SWA TQ terminals are
manufactured from high-grade copper to BS EN 12499 and electro-tinned to BS 1872. And SWA offers installers a full
tool calibration service in order to meet BS 7609 – the code of practice for installation and inspection.
sales@swaonline.co.uk / 01453 844 333

Loxone
Loxone is a flexible, convenient, 360° smart home solution for lighting, heating, security, AV, blinds and intelligent
energy management. We offer a dedicated installer program with training courses, free technical support, a
dedicated project consulting and demonstration service, free software and apps, and much more. As a Loxone
installation partner you’ll be able to offer your customers a complete home automation solution that is feature-rich
and future-proof. Loxone also runs regular free information sessions for companies interested in joining the Loxone
Partner Program. www.loxone.com/become-partner / 01183 130140

Ellis
Ellis has extended its range of Trident
all-plastic trefoil cable cleats for smaller
electrical cables. Now available in six sizes,
ranging from 24-54mm, Trident has a finite
element analysis optimised design that is both elegant and cost-
effective. It is manufactured from a V0 0H glass-filled nylon. It is
also available in a London Underground Limited (LUL) approved
polymer that meets LUL standard 1-085. Both versions of the
product have been short-circuit tested to IEC 61914.
www.ellispatents.co.uk / 01944 758395
Wiska
RESIL is Wiska's new two-component
re-enterable silicone resin, with a host of
benefits for consumers including a quick
setting time of just 12 minutes, a unique
two-part formula that can be mixed to your enclosure size
(saving the rest for later use), and protection against water,
dust and elements. RESIL is also classified as non-toxic,
making it safe and easy to use. Perfect for low-voltage
casings/standard enclosures.
www.wiska.co.uk / 01208 816062

Rolec Marshall-Tufflex
Chargepoint specialist Rolec EV has Marshall-Tufflex’s quick-fix Wire Basket
released its new Quantum EV charging is the latest star of Voltimum thanks
pedestal range. Rolec’s MD Kieron to a new product review video that
Alsop said: “The Quantum range has demonstrates its speed and ease of installation.
been specifically designed to offer a range of versatile charging In the video, Voltimum editor Dan Tovey and electrical contractor
solutions for the workplace, commercial and public locations. Kyle Gamble discuss the features and benefits of the innovative cable
Key features of Quantum include its robust anodised aluminium management system, including installation within four seconds:
structure, its introduction of energy-efficient LED amenity lighting pre-fabricated couplers allow basket lengths to quickly click together
to the industry and its smart integration capability.” with no requirement for tools or screws/bolts.
www.rolecserv.com / 01205 724754 marketing@marshall-tufflex.com

For great deals on products and services,

66
visit www.shop.niceic.com
S U MME R 2 017

65-66 PRODUCT PAGES.indd 66 28/09/2017 11:16

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p68_CON.Aut17.indd 68 22/09/2017 11:34

 O F F T HE T O O L S
lved wit
How did you get involved th
with
the Royal National Lifeboat
feboat
Institution (RNLI)?
lors, and at
My parents were keen sailors, a a
young age I was taken outt in their yacht
y
and introduced to sailing.. My fathe
father
er was a
member of Donaghadee lifeboat crew rew for
over 30 years, and when he retired at 55
he became a deputy launching authority. I
had spent my childhood among boats and
in and out of the lifeboat station, and in
2003 I made the decision to join myself.
What kind of training do you need?
There's a lot to learn, but the RNLI has a
marvellous training programme in all areas
of seamanship as well as advanced first-
aid courses. In recent years I decided to do
a mechanics course, and now I sometimes
act as assistant mechanic. The mechanic
must be available to start the boat and
look after the running of the engines and
radio communications while at sea.
Do your electrical skills come
in handy?
My practical skills are extremely useful.
Part of my role as a mechanic is to look
after the electronics on the boat, and my
ability to fault-find comes in very useful.
What kind of callouts do you
generally get?
It can be anything from children
stranded on rocks and in danger from
the incoming tide to engine fires on
vessels, and boats taking on water where
we have to employ our salvage pump.
Not only are we on the flight path for
Belfast’s airports, but we also have cross-
channel ferries and, this year, dozens of
cruise ships in our area. Occasionally we
have a medivac, when we come alongside
IMAGES: ISTOCK
a moving vessel to take someone off on a
stretcher when they are not well. We are
also on standby in case an aircraft gets
into difficulties.
69 Off the tools.indd 69
Do any rescues stand out in
your mind?
I was recently paged to look for missing
divers off the nearby islands. We searched
for many hours and, just as hope was
fading, we spotted something in the water
and it was them. They would not have
survived much longer.
Ross Bennett
between
How many times are you called out callouts
a week?
You can go for a week or two with no calls
at all and then suddenly you get two in one
day – there is no pattern to saving lives at
sea. Since January we have been out on
what we call “shouts” 29 times – more than
the whole of last year. You could be out for
a couple of hours, or if someone is missing
it could be eight or 10 hours. Thankfullyy
these are rare.
How does it fit in with your
our work?
As a crew member, when my pager ger goes
off, if I am close enough I rush downn to
the station, change into my lifeboat gear
and run down to the boat. When I am
acting as assistant mechanic I am unable
to leave the town so I try to arrange my
Sea
work accordingly, but sometimes I have
to wait until someone can relieve me in
the evening so that I can go and see to
some of my electrical jobs. My customers
are fantastic and assist me in every
change
way possible.
What do your family think about
it all?
When the pager goes, no matter what time
of the day or night, I rush to the station.
My family and friends are well used to
being deserted in the middle of a meal
and don’t complain at all. I am proud to
Ross Bennett started working in the
be a volunteer crew member of the RNLI
and in particular to work alongside
family firm Murdochoch Bennett
Bennet in
my friends and colleagues er in 2015. But
1998, and took it over
in Donaghadee.
he’s also following in his father’s
What do you get up to in your footsteps as a member of the local
spare time?
Email offthetools@redactive.co.uk RNLI voluntary lifeboat crew
69
AU T U MN 2 017
28/09/2017 11:16
 CURRENT AFFAIRS
Mind your sign language
We’ve all had a bad day at work, but it’s
generally not a good idea to make too
much of a fuss. Certainly not in big letters
on the front of the building
you’re working in.
One sparky
But that’s exactly what an
could have
unnamed electrician installing a future as a
cables for outside lights at Countdown
Kames post office in Argyll contestant
NORTHERN WIT
Contractors based in the north of England
are more likely to be on the end of an office
prank, according to a survey.
Research by Kit Out My Office found
83 per cent of northerners said they often
play jokes on colleagues, compared with
69 per cent of their southern counterparts.
The “hilarious” pranks include
covering the sensor on a mouse, placing
the waste from a hole punch into an
umbrella and drawing spiders on loo roll
before rolling it back up. Those long winter
days must just fly by.
Tell us about any hidden talents or charity initiatives. Email currentaffairs@redactive.co.uk
70 current affairs(pic required).indd 70
#SPARKSLIFE
We’ve been asking you to send in
pictures of the jobs you are working
on via social media – and you haven’t
IMAGE: DEADLINE NEWS
disappointed. Keep sending them
in via Twitter @officialNICEIC or
@officialELECSA or via Instagram
using the hashtag #sparkslife.
This issue’s prize for the best shot,
a £25 voucher, goes to Legacy
Electrical Services.
and Bute did, removing some letters and
rearranging the rest to spell the message
in the picture, after spending a day holed
up in a dirty loft.
Fortunately, the client saw the funny
side and left the sign up over the
weekend, allowing passers-by to burst @ Ormerod
Electrical Ltd
out laughing or stop their cars to take A handy tool to have!
pictures of their new-look post office.
@Legacyelect
Apprentice fully
CASH GENERATORS? kitted out before going
under floorboards
-
Connections readers have been
giving their verdict on a survey @Ecohomeelectrics
by recruitment firm Manpower, An interesting
new way to wear a
which suggests electricians earn light fitting
around £156,000 a year.
The story caused a stir on
social media sites, with some
sparkies asking “What are
we doing wrong?” Even their
partners joined in, with one
woman asking her husband
“Where are you hiding it?”
The bosses got in on the act
too, with one saying “Don’t let
the lads see this”.
Only one person thought it
was about right, but added
“you’ve got to know your job,
the regs and business like the
back of your hand, and then be
consistently good at it.”
@Tectonicdigitalsystems
Preparing for an
aerial install
But such tricks can have unintended
consequences. An electrician was
recently fined for attempting to scare a
@Elly V White
colleague who was working on a high- Full power ahead. Busting
voltage device. Not a good idea. through with the drill
Tag us
at...
70
AU T U MN 2 017
28/09/2017 11:18
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p71_CON.Aut17.indd 71 22/09/2017 11:35

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p72_CON.Aut17 copy.indd 72 22/09/2017 11:36