Electrical Magazine & Events is the only magazine dedicated to providing news and information covering all of Ireland's electrical industry both North and South of the border.
ISSUE 83 - FEB/MAR 2021
www.atc.ie
DERRYWOOD AGENCIES & DISTRIBUTORS
AGENTS &DISTRIBUTORS OF QUALITY ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS SINCE 1988
DerrywoodAgencies are Ireland’s leading importer of electrical products to the electrical wholesalemarket of Ireland. We represent some of the leading brands in the industry as well as our own brands of industrial plugs,sockets,enclosures and flexible conduit.
DerrywoodAgencies &Distributors Ltd Unit 4,Naas Road Business Park,MuirfieldDrive,Naas Road,Dublin 12. E: sales@derrywood.com - T: +353 1 4503800 www.derrywood.com
CONTENTS
In this issue...
Issue 83 - February/March 2021
4
7
58
8
News &Views 4
Products 12 OKTOair
In Focus 17 Ireland’s Electrical Awards 2020 Meet the winners of Ireland’s Electrical Awards 2020. 42 Charging ahead USB-A vs USB-C: How to future- proof USB charging solutions for the next level in smart devices. 44 Understanding UKCAmarking BASEC guides you through the new UK regulatory changes and cable classifications. 58 Inspiring next generation of engineers Marguerite Sayers of ESB, encourages Ireland’s engineering
IEBA President’s appeal Members respond to urgent funds appeal with over €32K raised so far for the industry charity.
OKTO Technologies launches wellness division OKTOair to improve health and wellbeing in the home and workplace.
7
ECA Dinner 2020/21 update ECA postpones association’s
46 Gripple
Gripple’s world leading suspension systems, now available from Core Distribution. 51 Runpotec Strongest Cable Pulling Improve your cable pulling power with this innovative range – only available from Eastern Electrical Cavan.
annual dinner date to Autumn 2021 as Covid-19 restrictions continue.
10 15% growth forecast for Irish construction Industry review predicts growth in 2021 despite challenges and delays due to Covid-19 and Brexit. 16 Spot the signs of workplace stress and burnout As skills shortage continues and
52 Klauke
Klauke’s battery-powered micro tool aims to take the strain out of crimping and increase productivity.
community to get involved in STEPS Engineers Week 2021.
workloads increase, electricians are more at risk of work-related stress.
THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy Publication Manager Janice Uprichard Editor Heather Campbell Production Manager Julie Anne Guiney
CONTACT US: The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira, Co. Armagh BT67 0JR T: Moira: 028 9261 2990 T: Dublin: 01 696 8319 E: electrical@kmpltd.co.uk www.elecmagazine.com
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Digital Creative Manager Jo Wilson Digital Content Editor Cathal Delea Photography Gordon McAvoy Printed by W&G Baird
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NEWS
K ind-hearted members of the Irish Electrical Benevolent Association (IEBA) answered an urgent fund- raising appeal by IEBA President Cel O’Reilly by donating over €32K to the charity so far. Cel made the appeal in November because of the fund-raising hole caused by Covid-19 restrictions that forced the IEBA to cancel all its 2020 fundraising events. These included the Leopardstown Race day in March, the two-day IEBA summer golf days in Dublin and Cork and its main event, The Winter Ball. The IEBA would normally raise around €60,000 from these events to help people in the electrical industry in need of assistance. Cel praised the response from members and believes the final fund-raising total will be even higher. How to donate 1 Bank online to Bank of Ireland BIC BOFIIE2D IBAN IE98 BOFI 9002 8794 1097 27 2 Go to www.irisheba.ie and click on the donate button 3 Post a cheque to… Irish Electrical Benevolent Association 6 the Mill Building, The Maltings, Bray, Co Wicklow. 4 Or make contact with any of the following committee members: Aidan Hayes +353 (0)87 2333008, Jim Rice +353 (0)87 6207667, President’s appeal raises over €32K
Gerard Smith, Operational Excellence Manager for CDE, and Ian Fraser, Key Account Manager at Power NI, mark their new green energy partnership.
CDEgoes greenwithPower NI
C DE, the world’s number one wet processing equipment company, will save just over 630 tonnes of CO2 by choosing green energy generated by only local, renewable sources. Power NI, Northern Ireland’s leading energy provider, will supply the Cookstown-based firm with over 2.1 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity – the same amount of energy that would power over 650 homes for a year. By choosing a green energy contract, CDE will save approximately 630 tonnes of carbon due to the electricity being
sourced from 100% renewables. The Green Energy contract will see Power NI supply CDE’s global headquarters in Cookstown and its world-class fabrication facilities in Monkstown and Cookstown. Gerard Smith, Operational Excellence Manager at CDE, said, “Sustainability is central to all that CDE does. We develop engineered solutions to usher in a greener, more sustainable future in the materials processing industry.” For more information on how Power NI
can power your business, visit www.powerni.co.uk/business
Remembering ‘Gentleman’ George
W e are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend, George Kernohan. George was a leading figure in the electrical industry for more than 40 years and as Managing Director of Braid Electrical Services, George provided training and employment for a large number of people in his hometown of Ballymena. In 2019, he was awarded with the Overall Achievement Award at Northern Ireland’s Electrical Awards for his services to the industry and received a standing ovation from the crowd of industry peers who agreed with the judge’s description of George as ‘one of life’s gentlemen.’ We would like to take this opportunity to extend our condolences to his family, friends and colleagues during this very difficult time. George was an exceptional figure within the local electrical industry and he will be sadly missed by us all.
Ian Brodigan +353 (0)86 6445010, Jimmy Whan +353 (0)87 2994199, Tony Murphy +353 (0)87 1232612, Jack Hegarty +353 (0)87 2786995, Pat Tully +353 (0)86 6060678, Dan Fisher +353 (0)87 988 0598, Phil Kane +353 (0)86 2448140
The late George Kernohan, with his Overall Achievement Award at NI’s Electrical Awards 2019.
Cel O’Reilly, President of the IEBA
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EATON LAUNCH A BRAND NEW SERIES, XPOLE HOME FOR RESIDENTIAL APPLICATIONS. NOW AVAILABLE, FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
TEC ELECTRIC, Unit F2 & F3 Weatherwell Business Park, Clondalkin, Dublin D22 HN36 Tel: 00353 1 4572445 - Email: electrical@tec.ie - www.tecelectric.ie
NEWS
H ager Ireland’s senior management team has strengthened the company’s customer focus with two new appointments. Current General Manager, Scott Wright will move to the role of Operations & Support Services Director. He will assume responsibility for all aspects of the company’s operational and support functions. Kevin Curran has been appointed as Head of Sales and will lead the Hager Ireland sales and marketing team. His new role will see him concentrating on delivering best-in- class customer-focused solutions. Kevin is a qualified electrician and has over 10 years’ experience within the electrical industry in Ireland. Scott Wright comments, “After spending six years as General Manager, I will now be taking on a more focused role to our operations side of the business to further grow the Hager brand in Ireland from 2021 onwards. Kevin added, “Joining Scott as a member of the new senior management team, I am determined to ensure Hager continues to deliver the highest level of service for our customers while also supporting their plans Hager senior appointments focus on customer support
NI demand for electricians jumps 64.6% duringpandemic
R esearch from Northern Ireland’s largest insurance comparison website shows electrician jobs have increased throughout the pandemic by 64.6%. The data from CompareNI.com compiled the top 10 list of trade occupations for 2020 and compared them to the 12 months previous. Electricians were in fourth position sitting behind joiner / carpenter (1), builder (2) and cleaner (3). This spike in tradespeople bucks the currently reported trend of a 30% fall in the construction industry in Northern Ireland, relating mainly to firms who develop retail, hospitality
and commercial construction. The analysis is based on a sample of over 7,000 tradesperson insurance policies compiled from across the UK during 2019 and 2020. Overall the demand for trades was up by 63%. Responding to the data, CompareNI. com Founder Greg Wilson comments, “With the nation in renovation mode throughout lockdown, it is not so surprising that demand for trade skills is spiking but it is great news for tradespeople and could even provide opportunities for those who have been made redundant recently.” www.compareni.com
for continued growth.” T: +353 (0)1 883 5844 E: customer.service@hager.ie www.hager.ie
ECADinner 2020/21 Update
T he Electrical Contractors’ September in the Stuart Suite, Culloden Hotel, instead of March 5, as previously rearranged. This is the second postponement of the ECA’s major fundraiser event due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Writing to ECA members, Alfie Watterson, Northern Ireland Regional Manager, ECA, said, Association (ECA) Dinner will be taking place on Friday 17, “…it was hoped that we would be through the pandemic by now, but
unfortunately that is not the case…Whilst it is disappointing to have to postpone the Dinner again, I trust due to the unprecedented times we are currently in you fully understand the decision taken.” Entertainer Josh Daniels will host the black-tie event, which raises vital funds for charity. The branch Chairman, Colin Cherry and officers of the NI ECA branch look forward to the continued support from members for the rearranged dinner. T: +44 (0)28 9147 9527 www.eca.co.uk
Scott Wright, Operations & Support Services Director and Kevin Curran, Head of Sales.
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 7
AS ATC CELEBRATES ITS MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, CIARAN O’REILLY REFLECTS ON THE LAST THREE DECADES... ATC: blazing a trail for 30years
W hen ATC first opened its doors for business in January 1991, at Adelaide Road, central Dublin we had no idea it would develop into the market- leading company it is today. The original management team - Mary Curley, Liam Prendergast, Brian Walsh – helped me steer the business from strength-to-strength, from those early years right up until the present day. We worked hard as a team to expand and develop the product ranges while at the same time growing our customer base throughout Ireland. Launching a new business is never straightforward and ours wasn’t without its challenges, but we knew we were onto something special and chased every opportunity. Exceptional customer care and quality products were the priority then as they remain now. Every new customer or order was greeted with great excitement and we soon realised we’d be expanding our team sooner than anticipated. We have two divisions within the group: ATC Electrical & Mechanical - who are renowned for their innovative and energy-efficient heating and hygiene products (several of them award-winning) and ATC Automation which specialise in machine controls, vision hygiene inspection systems and focusing on enabling companies to improve productivity within manufacturing. From the very beginning and right through to today we’ve always believed that our core values of Quality, Customer Care and Service are the cornerstone of our longevity and success. Expansion and growth Over the years, as ATC continued to grow we had to move premises on three separate occasions. This allowed us the
Irish Rugby legend, David Toner with staff at the opening of the new shrowrooms.
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opportunity to add new recruits to the team, expand our office space and increase capacity in our warehouse. This ensured we had adequate stock holding which was essential in supporting our ongoing growth. Part of our strategy was to identify, design and develop quality energy-efficient ATC-branded products in our Electrical Mechanical Division. We recognised this would be an important opportunity for the future growth and, as expected, it has proven to be the case. In 2012 we launched the initial ATC- branded products into the market and embarked on a period of designing, developing and growing the ATC product ranges. Our entry into the UK market in 2014 was challenging initially, however the UK business grew quickly over the next few years, hence the decision in 2017 to carry comprehensive stock at our Chelmsford warehouse to provide our customers with next day deliveries. This was followed with the launch of a dedicated UK website in 2019. In the same year we initiated the planned growth of our UK-based sales team. Each year has seen significant growth in business and customer development through the ATC product ranges. The UK business division is an integral part of the company and now represents a considerable portion of our overall business and forms a key component of our growth strategy in the future. In 2019, we also re-launched to wide acclaim our Energy Showrooms and dedicated Training Hub in ATC House. In what was a busy time in the company we successfully rolled out the Six Sigma 5S ATCTimeline • January 1991 – ATC opens for business at Adelaide Road, central Dublin • 1995 – ATC achieves IS ISO 9001 Quality Accreditation • 2008 – Move to ATC House, Tallaght • 2012 – ATC-branded products launched • 2014 – Enter UK market • 2017 – Provide next-day UK customer delivery from Chelmsford warehouse • 2019 – Launched UK website and expanded UK-based sales team. Relaunched Energy Showrooms and dedicated Training Hub at ATC House • 2020 - Introduction of the ATC Smart Logo for new Smart Product range
Lean Standard across the company, further enhancing efficiencies throughout the business. Future focused The last 30 years has not been without some challenges but we’ve always worked closely as a team. In that time, we have consolidated our position in both markets and with the support and commitment of all our staff we have become a leaner more structured company with a clear strategy and a firm focus. All successful businesses require quality and knowledgeable personnel who are the direct conduit to the customers. At ATC we have an exceptional group of people, many of them with us from our early years. Their interest and implementation of the ATC core values and culture have been a huge factor in the success of the company. As 2020 got underway nobody could have forecast the changes the world would see in a matter of months as the Covid-19 Pandemic took hold worldwide, not least here in Ireland and the UK. At ATC, it has had an impact on every one of us in some form and in some cases may have changed the way we live and work. Having said that, the role our own employees played ensuring the continued successful operation. We would like to thank our loyal customers for their support over the past 30 years with a special word of thanks for their on going support. We look forward to working with you for many decades to come.
“At ATC we have an exceptional group of people throughout the various departments and divisions of the company, many of themwith us from our early years.”
T: +353 (0)1 4678301 - E: sales@atc.ie www.atc.ie
ATC management team: Liam Prendergast, Purchasing Director, Mary Curley, Financial Director, Brian Walsh, Sales Director with Ciaran O’Reilly, Managing Director.
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NEWS
A n annual construction industry review challenges and delays presented by Covid-19 and Brexit. Whilst construction output is unlikely to reach pre-Covid 19 levels, it is expected that development in 2021 will significantly exceed 2020 levels. While 2021 has got off to a bad start for the industry, the report anticipates a strong year for the sector based on a presumption that normal activity will resume shortly as the vaccine roll-out continues. The report indicates in general terms that demand has not been impacted but rather activity is delayed. published by AECOM predicts impressive growth levels for the sector in 2021 despite John O’Regan, Director AECOM Ireland said, “Despite the challenges associated with the dual impact of the Covid-19 and Brexit, the projected growth rate of 15% for 2021 highlights the industry’s resilience at the moment. Our report also suggests that, while we are dealing with two very real threats to our supply chains, the price inflation for 2021 will only be marginally higher than 2020, reporting at 2%. This is very positive news for the industry and for consumers as there was considerable anticipation that the cost of building would climb sharply in 2021.” Irish construction expected togrowby 15% in 2021
Britt Megahey, Managing Director of Barclay Communications on site with new client, University of Cambridge.
Belfast-based telecoms firm strikes £3mdeal withUniversity of Cambridge
B arclay Communications has secured a £3m contract to supply one of the world’s top universities with sharper, more agile and reliable mobile solution for its 31 constituent colleges and 150 departments. The Belfast firm’s deal with University of Cambridge marks one of its biggest and most prestigious contract in its 24-year history and will see it deliver over 5,000 mobile connections that will be accessed by all Colleges and departments. The £3m contract will cover every College across all the main departments — from management teams, to operations, contracts, procurement, PR and more.
Speaking about the contract win, Managing Director of Barclay Communications, Britt Megahey said, “We competed against well- known industry names to win this partnership and that reflects how Barclay Communications is at the top of its game when it comes to providing the best solutions and service around.” Mr Megahey said the impact of Covid-19 on how businesses and organisations operate has fast- tracked technological development in the communications sector by five to 10 years. For more detail on the what they provide, call: +44 (0) 28 9096 0366, email: info@barclaycomms.com or visit: www.barclaycomms.com
T
Specialist lighting guide for FMS
he Society of Light and Lighting (SLL) has published its first guidance document designed
agreement, or can create a compelling argument for upgrading lighting systems, in terms of investment in energy savings, reduced carbon footprint and increased reliability. It’s designed to be supportive of facilities managers with knowledge of electrical services, but whose work may occasionally involve lighting or related decision making. LG20 is the latest addition to a series of application specific Lighting Guides, produced by CIBSE and the Society of Light and Lighting. Visit www.sll.org.uk to download or purchase your copy of LG20: Lighting for Facilities Managers.
specifically to address the key lighting tasks required of facilities managers. The SLL Lighting Guide (LG) 20 sets out a logical approach for non-specialists to identify and undertake the tasks required in order to “provide the right amount of light in the right place for the right amount of time.” LG20 includes guidance on energy consumption and assessing the maintainability of existing lighting installations. This information is often required in relation to service level
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OKTOair powered by HealthWay And breathe... Equip your building with the best-in-class, medical grade air purification system.
Feel confident and safe going back inside.
OKTOair Wellness by OKTO Technologies, OKTOair, Unit 1 Crescent Business Park, Lisburn, BT28 2GN. T: 028 9266 7030 - E: info@oktoair.com
COMPANY NEWS
OKTO TECHNOLOGIES UNVEILS ITS NEWWELLNESS DIVISION, OKTOAIR, OFFERING A SUITE OF INNOVATIVE AI SOLUTIONS FOR THE POST COVID-19 WORKPLACE... Artificial Intelligence Technology for workplace Wellness
Philip Dowds, Managing Director at OKTO Technologies
OKTOair real-time intuitive dashboard
W orkplace wellness is on the rise. In the early 2000s the practice was often viewed as a ‘nice to have’, but not a necessity. Now, companies, small businesses and even schools are understanding that wellness and wellbeing can have a massive effect on morale and productivity and are adapting their operations and initiatives to better support the physical and mental wellbeing of their employees. Over the years more and more companies have begun implementing wellness programmes, which have grown from healthy snacks or health insurance to much more. But now, as companies and organisations anticipate the return of their workforce post lockdown, safeguarding their staff’s health, safety and well-being takes on an even greater urgency. Government Return to Work Safely Protocols make it clear that simply providing extra hand sanitisers and social distancing measures will not be enough. High levels of air quality management, no- touch doors, switches and other fittings are among the measures put forward to ensure high levels of hygiene in the office, small businesses, retail and education settings. Post Covid-19 Lisburn-based OKTO Technologies is leading the technology fight to safeguard office workers, teachers, retail staff etc. during and after the Coronavirus pandemic. Its newly launchedWellness Division, OKTOair, help businesses, schools and clients incorporate wellness technology
into everyday lives. OKTOair’s Technology for Wellness helps to develop and deliver wellness solutions that assess the health risks of employees, and even helps to motivate and engage workers with added health and productivity benefits. Philip Dowds, Managing Director at OKTO Technologies comments, “Never before has the public need been more focused on feeling safe and protected in the work or education environment. We fast-tracked the launch of our OKTOair filtration system as a result of Covid-19 because we feel it will have a positive and helpful impact for businesses across the country as they reopen their doors. The demand from commercial landlords has been significant, as the need to reassure tenants and customers that their premises are safe is great.” WELL Building Institute
management to hands-free building access space, the OKTOair Wellness Suite is a working solution that helps prepare the indoor environment for the new normal. Below is a brief introduction to the various suite systems. OKTOair Disinfecting Filtration Systems OKTOair monitors and maintains the air quality of the indoor environment. Artificial Intelligence technology determines how best to manage the air to attain ideal conditions automatically ventilating and cleaning the air. The intuitive dashboard shows detailed information of the air quality inside and outside the property in real time – empowering you with information on the quality of the air you breathe. The OKTOair Disinfecting Filtration Systems removes 99.99% of all airborne particulates including harmful contagions, allergens and pathogens down to 0.007microns, 10x smaller than the Coronavirus and 40x smaller than can be filtered by the perceived industry leading HEPA filters. In addition to filtration the air is purified using electronic disinfection techniques to destroy even the smallest bacteria or viruses. Testing of a proxy virus for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes Covid-19) at 0.03 micron has elimination within 45 minutes, certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) after laboratory testing. No other air filtration device is able to result in this sort of efficiency, while keeping costs affordable and added system pressure drop to a minimum.
OKTOair is a member of the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), committed to enhancing
buildings and communities to help people thrive. International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) is leading the global movement to transform buildings and communities, focussed exclusively on how the spaces around us can make us healthier, happier and more productive. Beyond Covid-19 As restrictions start to lift, preparing your indoor environment for a post Covid-19 world becomes vital. From indoor air quality
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COMPANY NEWS
“We fast-tracked the launch of our OKTOair filtration system as a result of Covid-19 because we feel it will have a positive and helpful impact for businesses across the country as they reopen their doors.”
And breathe...
Window Treatments OKTOair provides the ultimate end-to- end solution for Window Treatments. They supply and install motorised curtain tracks, roller, roman and venetian blinds complete with bespoke soft furnishings fully integrated with the lighting and Building Control Systems for assured quality and complete reliability. Workers exposed to natural light tend to feel more motivated to exercise and get more sleep based on studies. Linking the Window Treatment control to the BMS to reduce solar gain and to the OKTOair Human Centric Lighting systems will automatically optimise the light available in the building. Touchless Control Touch-free technology - buildings where you don’t need to touch anything, are now entirely feasible. Using Artificial Intelligence OKTO’s Touchless Technology provides seamless touchless access and control so staff members can travel through the building safely and securely without needing to touch any surfaces. Doors will open using facial recognition and near-field technology linked to mobile devices. Automatic lift management and voice control will take occupants to their desired floor without touching a button. Combining voice, mobile device and facial recognition to provide layered authentication to ensure the safest, most secure environment. While OKTO has been synonymous with designing simple, intuitive controls
“There has been a definite shift in air filtration from just heating and cooling to a focus on ‘Indoor Air Quality’ and systems that include cleaning and monitoring of the air,” says Philip. “When you consider that we spend 90% of our time indoors being exposed to air, which is typically five times more polluted than outdoors, it is absolutely vital to consider the impacts on our health and how we can improve it. In the midst of going back to the workplace, schools or the most densely populated and polluted city centres, where floor space is at a premium, our solutions offer optimum control, comfort, health, wellbeing and ultimately, peace of mind.” Human Centric Lighting OKTOair’s Human Centric Lighting can help to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm or 24-hour internal body clock which affects important biological functions such as sleep, hormone levels, body temperature and metabolism – regulating sleep patterns and enhancing mood. Controlled lighting scenes based on the context and the time of day to differentiate between a warm, bright summer’s evening and a cold wet winter’s night using natural lighting effects to match the colour temperature of external light - set lighting scenes in real time. Good light quality increases the body’s feeling of wellbeing, wakefulness and energy – an unseen but essential aspect of providing a calm office environment with increased productivity.
and user interfaces, COVID has brought touchless technologies to the fore. OKTO’s AI processor integrated with your existing Building Management System and controlled by the OKTOair app will provide a completely touch-free experience. Social Distancing Management As organisations prepare for employees to return to work, this new normal calls for an effective solution to manage how the workspace is used and by whom. With OKTOair you can easily optimise your workspace and make the office flexible to changing needs. We do it by sensing and processing your building occupancy data and providing insights and reports you require to keep your staff and occupiers safe. Water Filtration OKTOair’s Water Filtration removes limescale, pollutants, organic contaminants and cleaning additives such as Chlorine from the water in a property meaning staff/customers can drink pure clean water from the tap. Filtered water is far more cost effective than bottled water and also help’s towards reducing the environmental impact. ‘Workplace wellness’ as a concept in offices, commercial premises, schools, hotels and hospitality businesses is growing in importance and value. To speak to a wellness technology expert and discover more about the systems available contact the team.
OKTOair Wellness by OKTO Technologies, OKTOair, Unit 1 Crescent Business Park, Lisburn, BT28 2GN. T: +44 (0)28 9266 7030 - E: info@oktoair.com www.oktoair.com
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SOFTWARE
NEIL BATT, SIMPROBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, EXPLAINS HOW SIMPRO’S JOB MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE WILL KEEP YOUR WORKFLOWON TRACK...
Take control of job management with simPRO
Y our electrical business has a lot of moving parts. From scheduling and dispatching to collecting payments and running reports, managing workflows efficiently is the key to keeping customers happy and growing your business. So how do you keep track of it all? Manual processes and slow communication
options so you can schedule the right engineer for the job, every time.
button. Optimise your workforce with a Job Productivity report, streamline sales processes with Sales Invoice reports and manage your financial performance with Profit and Loss reports. We’re growing so you can too! simPRO is a global company gearing up for another successful year with a focus on growing business in Ireland. We’ve on boarded an experienced team of locally- based Business Development Managers, a Partner Manager and Implementation Consultants to help you trade up with simPRO.
2. Improved job costing Easily track materials, labour,
subcontractors, equipment, overhead costs and change orders. Using cloud- based software gives you the capability to access live updates of profitability,
keep financials organised and connect every part of the job management process. 3. Seamless job tracking Get full visibility and track jobs from start to finish with simPRO in the office and the simPRO Mobile app in the field. simPRO Mobile provides field staff with the capability to create jobs, track time, record job details, generate quotes,
“Designed by electricians for electricians and other field service businesses, simPRO gives you full visibility of your business, streamlines processes and enhances efficiency.”
between office and field wastes valuable time and money while increasing the likelihood of errors. Thankfully, there is a better way. You can take control of your processes with cloud-based job management software like simPRO. Designed by electricians for electricians and other field service businesses,
Author: Neil Batt, simPRO Business Development Manager Neil recently joined simPRO in Dublin
bringing with him a wealth of knowledge from various industries including media, training and technology. Neil is passionate about helping businesses overcome the challenges faced while scaling their business.
simPRO gives you full visibility of your business, streamlines processes and enhances efficiency.
process payments and capture photos while onsite. Information captured in the field and in the office flows seamlessly with two-way sync and real-time updates. 4. Intelligent reporting Uncover the most profitable parts of your business with simPRO’s reporting features. Using data collected on a day-to-day basis, simPRO collates the information you need, with the click of a
Four ways simPRO can help you improve job management:
1. Simple scheduling Know where your staff is, at all times, without spreadsheets, whiteboards and disparate systems. With simPRO, you can choose from a variety of scheduling
T: +44 (0)800 622 6376 E: neil.batt@simpro.ie www.simpro.ie
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SWITCHED ON
ON SITES THAT ARE STILL OPEN, BURNOUT AND WORKPLACE STRESS CAN BE A REAL CONCERN. ALAN HICKEY, SERVICES & OPERATIONS DIRECTOR FOR PENINSULA IRELAND EXPLAINS WHAT SYMPTOMS YOU SHOULD LOOK OUT... Spotting the signs of burnout BURNOUT
B urnout is a special type of exhaustion. It’s caused by an extended period of workplace stress although the symptoms often aren’t what you would expect from stress. Burnout has become more common in recent years and can occur in all industries, but due to the workload, it can be a significant risk to tradespeople. work-related stress — a state of mental, emotional and physical The electrical industry is one of the worst affected by the skills shortage, which means when the demand for installations increases there are fewer workers to complete it. This can result in electricians working 60+ hours a week, which has a significant impact on work/life balance — something that can have a negative effect on worker’s mental health. Tradespeople are required to stand for long periods of time, lifting heavy objects and working in awkward positions. It can be both physically and mentally taxing for workers. Additionally, tradespeople can find themselves working in different locations. When combined with other
issues, that can add to the feeling of burnout as there is little regularity in the workday. Symptoms of burnout People suffering from burnout often feel hopeless about their situation. It can make them less social or cause subtle changes to their personality, such as being impatient or easily frustrated. Symptoms include: Easily distracted: Employees suffering from burnout can be easily distracted and you might notice that they take longer to complete tasks, or make mistakes that they wouldn’t have previously. Low energy: Stress can be extremely disruptive to a person’s sleep. They can be kept up at night worrying about the following day. You might notice that a worker has less energy than usual or that they appear tired throughout the workday. More irritated and impatient than usual: A combination of that tiredness and stress can make an individual seem frustrated. They might become overly critical of their colleagues or more prone to snapping at others, which can be very disruptive in a
close work environment. Frequent illness: Stress conditions can affect more than just mental health. They can also lower a person’s immune system. This can cause them to feel rundown and make them more likely to become unwell. Colds and the flu are common in people facing a high level of continuous stress. Other health issues burnout can cause are headaches or bowel problems. It’s important to speak to someone if you think they are suffering from burnout. Ignoring the issue can lead to worse symptoms and can result in workers being signed off work with stress. For more HR and health and safety related advice visit: www.peninsulagrouplimited.com “Burnout has become more common in recent years and can occur in all industries, but due to the workload, it can be a significant risk to tradespeople.”
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL AWARDS REVIEW
I N A S S O C I A T I O N W I T H
V I R T U A L E X P E R I E N C E
WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL AWARDS 2020
g
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Deirdre O’Kane presenting Ireland’s Electrical Awards Virtual Experience 2020.
ELECTRICAL AWARDS 2020 RECOGNISED THE BRIGHTEST SPARKS FROM IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY... W e were thrilled to host the first Virtual Experience of Ireland’s Electrical Awards in December CelebratingExcellence Electrical Dublin and Core electrical industry. Dermot O’Callaghan was the
Distribution proved that even in the most difficult of times they were willing to go the extra mile to provide customers with exceptional service and the products they needed. Fantastic individual achievements also received recognition, such as Apprentice of the Year, Shane Farrell, who was deemed ‘outstanding’ by the judges and Dublin-based, John Coller, who in 2018 had made a note on his phone with the goal of becoming Ireland’s Electrician of the Year and turned that goal into a reality just two years later. As usual, an independent panel of respected industry experts had the difficult task of singling out winners from what was an outstanding calibre of entries for each category. However, when it came to the Overall Achievement Award it was a unanimous decision that the award should be made posthumously to a man we all agreed was a great leader and ambassador for Ireland’s
person responsible for developing Precision Cables into the thriving business it is today and we were honoured to be able to present the 2020 Overall Achievement Award to his son, Fergus. The countdown now begins for the Virtual Experience of Northern Ireland’s Electrical Awards 2021 in June, after which Ireland’s Electrical Awards will return in 2022 for what we hope will be a traditional awards ceremony allowing us to celebrate together in person. Until then, we would like to take this final opportunity to congratulate all of our winners and to thank all of those who took the time to enter, as well as our sponsors who made the event possible - a huge thanks to you all! To register your interest in entering the 2022 awards ceremony or to become a sponsor, please contact Karen Jess on (RoI) 01 696 8319 or (NI) 028 9261 2990 or email karenj@kmpltd.co.uk
2020, bringing to a close a year we will never forget with a celebration of all that is great about our industry. Sponsored by Ei Electronics and presented by award-winning Irish actress, comedian and presenter, Deirdre O’Kane, the awards ceremony recognised the achievements of the top electrical contractors, suppliers, people, products and projects across Ireland. Contractors from across the nation like Prowire Electrical, CMG Electrical Ltd and King & Moffatt Building Services impressed our judges with the quality of their work on some spectacular projects, while products such as OCTO from Ansell Lighting and the Omega Pro 2 from Thorn Lighting delivered the latest in innovations. Wholesalers and Distributors like Dolphin Electrical, Edmundson
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Fergus O’Callaghan, Managing Director, Precision Cables accepted the award on behalf of his late father
SPONSOR: EI ELECTRONICS
2020OVERALLACHIEVEMENTAWARD MRDERMOTO’CALLAGHAN - PRECISIONCABLES
Dermot O’Callaghan, founder, Precision Cables
Peers remember Dermot with highest accolade
with Precision Cables from the very beginning.” Dermot’s career began as an apprentice electrician in ESB, later joining GEC Distributors in 1967 as branch manager in Dundalk. In 1970 he founded Eastern Electrical Wholesale in Dundalk, later expanding the company with branches in Dublin and Cork to become one of the largest electrical wholesalers in Ireland. Following the sale of the business to Newey & Eyre, he went on to start his new business, Precision Cables, in 1980, securing an exclusive distribution contract with Pirelli General Cables - a contract which continues today under the Prysmian Group. Dermot was a member of the NSAI TC14 cable committee, overseeing cable standards for over 15 years. He was also a former captain and active member of the Electrical Industry Golfing Society and was fondly known as ‘the Doc.’ He was a great leader, someone who inspired loyalty and taught others to be the best they could be.
It is no surprise that many of those who benefitted from his tutelage have either gone on to have very rewarding careers or have become successful in their own business interests. “If he had been alive to accept this award himself, he would have been over the moon,” says Fergus, “and he would talk about it and remind us about it at every opportunity for a very long time! He would have enjoyed this accolade immensely.” “It is a very proud moment for me, my family and all the staff in Precision Cables that he has been recognised in this manner by his peers. It says a lot about the man that, over a year after he passed away, people still hold him close in their hearts and minds to nominate him for this award.”
Dermot O’Callaghan, the original founder of Precision Cables one of the largest cable distributors in Ireland, was posthumously awarded the Overall Achievement accolade at Ireland’s Electrical Awards 2020. This award recognises an individual or a company that has enhanced the electrical sector through their dedication and tireless hard work within the industry. Dermot indeed brought great honour to the industry throughout his long and prestigious career and our judges unanimously agreed upon his award. Fergus O’Callaghan, Managing Director for Precision Cables, accepted the award on behalf of his late father. “Dad’s legacy to Precision Cables is his belief in keeping things simple and his strong sense of loyalty - to staff, to customers and to suppliers. ‘Your word is your honour and people are your strength’ was a great phrase of his,” says Fergus. “This is so obviously reflected in the long relationship with our supply partner Prysmian, and with the many customers who have been
T: +353 (0)42 933 1436 E: info@precisioncables.ie www.precisioncables.ie
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WINNER: APPRENTICEOFTHEYEAR
SHANEFARRELL - KING&MOFFATTBUILDINGSERVICES
We were thrilled to see such a strong level of entries in this category and there are clearly bright futures ahead for all the apprentices who put themselves forward. However, there could only be one winner and our judging panel awarded Shane Farrell of King & Moffatt Building Services with the 2020 Apprentice of the Year award. In addition to receiving exemplary academic results, Shane has also shown himself to be a credit to his employer with the high standards of his work on site. Derek Madden, Contracts Manager at King & Moffatt Building Services said: “From an early start Shane was very focused and driven. He is always willing to go the extra mile, and always pushed himself to do more and never shied away from any difficult task or project.” While the Apprentice of the Year
Shane Farrell, Apprentice, King & Moffatt
SPONSOR: EWL ELECTRIC, EDMUNDSON ELECTRICAL, EASTERN ELECTRICAL
award was one of our most hotly contested categories, the judges agreed Shane’s academic achievements and quality of workmanship were outstanding and crowned him the deserving winner.
T: +353 (0) 71 962 0378 E: Info@kingmoffatt.com W: www.kingmoffatt.com
WINNER: LARGECOMMERCIALPROJECT
KING&MOFFATTBUILDINGSERVICES - CENTERPARCS, LONGFORD
King & Moffatt Building Service was awarded the Large Commercial Project of the Year award for their work on the landmark Center Parcs project in Co. Longford. Established by Pat King and John Moffatt in 1978, King & Moffatt Building Services provide mechanical and electrical engineering services to the construction industry, from design through to installation and maintenance. The Center Parcs development represented a E 233m investment, the single largest in the history of the Irish tourism industry, with King & Moffatt responsible for the electrical services installations on the project to the Village Centres, Aqua Sauna & Subtropical Swimming, Apartments, Externals and HKTS Building. Our judges unanimously agreed the Center Parcs development
Pat King, Managing Director, King & Moffatt
SPONSOR: ANSELL LIGHTING
deserved the 2020 Large Commercial Project of the Year award and praised King & Moffatt Building Services for successfully delivering this very large, unique and highly complex project to an exceptional standard.
T: +353 (0) 71 962 0378 E: Info@kingmoffatt.com W: www.kingmoffatt.com
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WINNER: MEDIUMCOMMERCIALPROJECT
BAMFACILITIESMANAGEMENT LTD - SWORDSPAVILIONS SHOPPING CENTRE, LEDLIGHTINGUPGRADE
The 2020 award for Medium Commercial Project of the Year went to BAM Facilities Management for the Swords Pavilions Shopping Centre LED Lighting Upgrade Project. BAM FM were responsible for the design, supply, installation and commissioning of the new LED Lighting System, including the removal and replacement / retrofit of approximately 4,000 light fittings throughout the Centre, one of the largest projects of its kind in Ireland. Works were completed during peak Christmas trading with no disruption to the Centre’s operations at any stage. High- quality LED fittings, with highly sophisticated lighting controls, were installed delivering annual energy savings of 1.37million kWh per annum and a reduction of approximately 500tonnes CO2 per annum. Our judges awarded BAM
Kevin Hickey, BAM Facilities Management
SPONSOR: ANSELL LIGHTING
FM the Medium Commercial Project of the Year award for the overall high standard of their work, with the Client also commending the company on their proactive project management, scale of support and efficiency of execution.
T: +353 (0)45 886 400 E: info@bamcontractors.ie W: www.bamireland.ie
WINNER: SMALLCOMMERCIALPROJECT CMGELECTRICAL LTD - TOTALPRODUCE, BALBRIGGAN
CMG Electrical Ltd was awarded Small Commercial Project of the Year at Ireland’s Electrical Awards 2020 for their stellar work on a project for Total Produce in Balbriggan, Co. Dublin. The Co. Donegal based company is well known for their vast range of experience on commercial installations that includes warehouses with controlled temperature rooms, pharmaceutical fit outs, clean room laboratories, retail outlets, offices, government buildings, schools, hospitals, universities and more. This combined M&E project with PowerTech Refrigeration seen CMG Electrical wiring the internal and external lighting, emergency rapid raise doors and also wiring six coolers in store rooms and a condenser at rear of the building. CMG Electrical Ltd won acclaim
L-R: Clive McGonigle, Managing Director and Oisin McConnell, Project Manager, CMG Electrical
SPONSOR: ANSELL LIGHTING
from our judging panel for the overall quality of their work on the Total Produce project, gaining top marks for the structured approach of their workforce and the emphasis placed on collaboration and efficiency.
T: +353 (0) 74 9101708 E: info@cmgelectrical.ie W: www.cmgelectrical.ie
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WINNER: SMALLCONTRACTOROFTHEYEAR
PROWIREELECTRICAL
Prowire Electrical from Co. Waterford is Ireland’s Small Contractor of the Year 2020. A family owned and run electrical contracting business, Prowire was originally formed in 2012 under the philosophy that the client is always in charge and the mission is to turn their expections into reality. As well as general electrical works in the domestic and commercial markets, Prowire Electrical work closely with David Flynn, DFL Fitout & Joinery and lighting designers, Dlight Concepts, to deliver fitout projects nationwide. After tasting success at Ireland’s Electrical Awards in 2018, Prowire has expanded to employing seven full-time staff as well as completing projects for clients such as Insomnia Coffee Company, the Department of
David Burke, Managing Director, Prowire
SPONSOR: CORE DISTRIBUTION
Education and Daffodil Care Services. Our judges said Prowire Electrical were thoroughly deserving of this award, which was a testament to the company’s hard work and determination to succeed.
T: +353 (0)8 7253 9629 E: david@prowire.ie W: www.prowire.ie
WINNER: MEDIUMCONTRACTOROFTHEYEAR
CMGELECTRICAL LTD
CMG Electrical Ltd received top marks from our judging panel to be crowned ‘Medium Contractor of the Year’ at Ireland’s Electrical Awards 2020. Based in Convoy, Co. Donegal, CMG Electrical Ltd are fully qualified, RECI (Safe Electric) registered and insured electrical contractors with more than 20 years’ experience in the industry and a track record for quality work on projects all over Ireland, the UK, Germany and Belgium. With a skilled and experienced workforce, the company provide a wide range of services, including domestic, commercial, agricultural and industrial works along with testing and periodic inspections. Mechanical Services are also provided on a range of projects to help with the controls and
L-R: Clive McGonigle, Managing Director and Oisin McConnell, Project Manager, CMG Electrical
SPONSOR: CORE DISTRIBUTION
designs of both systems. CMG Electrical impressed our judges with the quality of their work as well as their focus on efficiency and the collaborative approach taken by the CMG Electrical team.
T: +353 (0)74 910 1708 E: info@cmgelectrical.ie W: www.cmgelectrical.ie
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WINNER: LARGECONTRACTOROFTHEYEAR J. VAUGHANELECTRICALCONTRACTORS LTD
In a category that was very close to call, the judges crowned J. Vaughan Electrical Contractors Ltd as our 2020 Large Contractor of the Year. Established in 1979, J. Vaughan Electrical Contractors Ltd (JVE) are one of Ireland’s leading electrical engineering and contracting companies, with a wealth of industry experience in areas that include commercial, industrial, educational, residential, medical and conservation & heritage. Built on the esteemed reputation of Joe Vaughan and the Vaughan family, JVE are committed to delivering quality work that places an emphasis on customer care and value for money. The company provide a complete range of services from “design and build” packages to installation, fit-out, specialist services, testing, maintenance, responsive and emergency call out work.
L-R: Sean Stanley, Purchasing Manager and Doug Fagan, Electrical Engineer, J Vaughan Electrical
SPONSOR: CORE DISTRIBUTION
JVE won praise from our judging panel for the innovative installation elements such as intelligent lighting and intelligent solutions that they brought to complex projects and commended the overall quality of work.
T: +353 1 8829728 E: info@jve.ie www.jve.ie
WINNER: SMALLDOMESTICPROJECTOFTHEYEAR PROWIREELECTRICAL - CROWLEYRESIDENCE, TRAMORE, COWATERFORD
In another well-deserved win, Prowire Electrical picked up the Small Domestic Project of the Year award for their work on the Crowley Residence in Tramore, Co Waterford. The brief on this interesting project called for Prowire to deliver an electrical package for a large modern extension to an existing home that would provide plenty of light in the space and have the majority of the task lighting recessed to allow the client to control all aspects of their lighting system remotely and through touch screen capability. Our judging panel commended Prowire Electrical for the quality of workmanship on the Crowley Residence project and said the Co. Waterford company deserved the award for how
David Burke, Managing Director, Prowire
SPONSOR: CHINT
they worked closely with the customer to decide on the exact style requirements for the project before utilising an up- to-date lighting control strategy that perfectly complemented these requirements.
T: +353 (0)8 7253 9629 E: david@prowire.ie W: www.prowire.ie
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