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 86 - AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021
warning signals
NOWDISTRIBUTED IN IRELAND BY...
www.caltech.ie
DERRYWOOD AGENCIES & DISTRIBUTORS
AGENTS & DISTRIBUTORS OF QUALITY ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS SINCE 1988 Derrywood Agencies are Ireland’s leading importer of electrical products to the electrical wholesale market 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.
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CONTENTS
In this issue...
Issue 86 - Aug/Sept 2021
20
36
76
24
44
News &Views 5 CTS head is new Chair of NIFL
Products 12 E2S
In Focus 19 Mental health first aid
Caltech Electrical Supplies Ltd have strengthened their product line with the addition of the highly specialised ES2 warning signals to their stable of top brand names. Ei Electronics’ SmartLINK Gateway is revolutionising the way in which fire and CO alarm systems are managed, paving the way to a solution-focused approach to asset management.
Connaire McGreevy, MD of CTS facilities management based in Newry, Co Down, is appointed as the new Chair of the NIFL Premiership Management Committee.
Paul Williams, Electrical Contractors Association’s Health & Safety Manager and Mental First Aid ‘Train the Trainer’, talks about poor mental health and how electrical contractors are stepping up support.
61 Ei Electronics
7 European athletics win for Vaughan apprentice
24 Grand Opera House
Troy McConville, one of Vaughan Engineering Group’s electrical
William Coates Ltd and supply chain take centre stage on stunning renovation project for Belfast’s iconic Grand Opera House building.
apprentices, returns victorious from the European Athletics Promotion. 11 Nittan agrees further sponsorship Nittan Europe announce continued sponsorship of SERC’s Fire Engineering Apprentice of the Year award across five years. THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy Publication Manager Janice Uprichard Advertising Julie Patterson Editor Heather Campbell Production Manager Julie Anne Guiney Digital Creative Manager Jo Wilson Digital Content Editor Cathal Delea Digital Communications Rachel Freeman Photography Gordon McAvoy Printed by W&G Baird
85 MK Electric
58 Fire & Security
MK Electric’s new MK Base range - designed to meet and exceed client expectations for quality, safety, range and ease of installation.
Catch up with latest news, updates and product launches from the specialist fire and security sector.
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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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 3
NEWS
Mark Alexander, newly appointed Energy Transition Manager for Mutual Energy.
Ethos Engineeringdonates €30K to cancer charity
Mutual Energymakes senior appointments
Ethos Engineering (M+E consultants) smashed their July €10K fundraising target for The Irish Cancer Society by €5K. That makes a total of €15,000 raised through generous donations of time, effort and hard-earned money from all Ethos Engineering work colleagues, industry friends, family and supporters. CEO Greg Hayden praised their hard work, “I am personally so proud of the massive team effort from all the staff, at Ethos and our sister companies, Fusion and KPPM. “As this disease has unfortunately impacted so many of our lives, Ethos Engineering will now match all the funds we have raised, which will
allow us to donate €30,000 to a really brilliant cause in the fight against this horrible disease.” Ethos Engineering provides mechanical and electrical consultancy services to the residential, commercial, micro-electronic, healthcare, municipal, hi-tech, data centre, pharmaceutical, and sports & leisure sectors. Specialist engineers have extensive experience in sustainable and environmental design solutions. Headquartered at Sandyford, Dublin they also have offices in Cork, Galway and Limerick. To find out more call: +353 (0) 1 293 220 email: info@ethoseng.ie or visit: www.ethoseng.ie
to newEnergy Transition Team
Mutual Energy has appointed Mark Alexander and Shane Rafferty to its newly formed Energy Transition Team. The Energy Transition Team will collaborate with key industry stakeholders to develop and implement Mutual Energy’s strategic approach to the decarbonisation of the Northern Ireland energy sector by 2050. Mark Alexander has been appointed as Energy Transition Manager, leading the team. With almost 20 years’ experience in the energy sector, Mark previously has held senior roles with Energia Group, developing large-scale energy storage projects and specialising in energy trading, trading risk management and energy market design. Shane Raffety, who joined Mutual Energy in 2015 from Phoenix Natural Gas, has been appointed as Senior Energy Transition Analyst, and brings with him an in-depth knowledge of gas operations and engineering. Announcing the new Energy Transition Team, Paddy Larkin, Chief Executive of Mutual Energy said, “We are delighted to have Mark and Shane driving this project forward, as we look to deliver cost-effective and climate-positive energy solutions to Northern Irish consumers and businesses.” Visit: www.mutual-energy.com for more information.
CTS head is newChair of NIFL
Connaire McGreevy, MD of CTS facilities management based in Newry, Co Down, has been appointed as the new Chair of the NIFL Premiership Management Committee. A member of the Board of Directors
at Warrenpoint Town FC, he had this to say to his club supporters, “I am honoured to be elected the Chair of the Premiership Management Committee. It is a hardworking voluntary committee with every club represented. “We have a tough year ahead for football in ensuring fans are back in our grounds, growing our audience, ensuring every club is equally represented through the sub-regional funding and making the tweaks to the dials that will make football better for all. “I look forward to representing the Premiership wherever I can.” Congratulations and good luck with the new role, Connaire! To contact CTS visit: www.wearects.net,
Shane Rafferty joins Mutual Energy as Senior Energy Transition Analyst.
call: +44 (0)28 4175 2299 or email: info@wearects.co.uk
Connair McGreevy, MD of CTS is new Chair of NIFL Premiership Management Committee.
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 5
APPRENTICESHIPS “BUILD A REWARDING CAREER WITH THE LEADING ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTOR IN NORTHERN IRELAND” Due to continued growth throughout Ireland, we are looking to take on two apprentices who will have opportunities to progress through the business and could be the first step to a long career.
ASK A MEMBER OF STAFF FOR MORE DETAILS Or visit: www.careers-edmundson-electrical.co.uk
FOR MOR E I N FORMAT I ON CON TAC T :
58 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6HT T: +44 (0)28 9066 1177 - E: belfast@eel.co.uk www.edmundson-electrical.co.uk
NEWS
Gary Dwyer appointed ECI Group Managing Director.
Artist impression of new Casement Park. Source: GAA
Green light for Casement park redevelopment
Senior appointments at ECI Lighting
The Infrastructure Minister, Nichola Mallon has officially approved the long-awaited redevelopment of Casement Park. Work is expected to commence in the first half of 2022 and take two years to complete with Mott MacDonald as the M+E contractor. The Communities Minister, Deirdre Hargey, confirmed the proposed Casement Park development will cost approximately £110 million. The initial cost of the new GAA stadium was estimated at £77 million. Main contractors Heron Brothers Limited, Co. Londonderry and Buckingham Group Contracting Limited, Co. Buckinghamshire have been awarded the contract for the design and construction of the new
stadium at Casement Park Stadium for UCGAA. Works will comprise the demolition and disposal of the entire facilities and the construction of the new stadium, which will incorporate changing, training, hospitality, acoustic performance capabilities, community rooms, media facilities, comfort, office and storage facilities etc. Replacement floodlighting, stadium/ event management suite, ground support facilities including new arrangements for vehicles and pedestrians, electronic display installations, storage, surface and undercroft car parking, hard and soft landscaping are also included. Details supplied by Construction Information Services.
The ECI Group has announced the appointment of Gary Dwyer as Group Managing Director. Since joining ECI in 1997, Gary has held the role of Finance Director for many years. During this time Gary also developed a broad set of commercial skills, and his knowledge and experience in the industry place him perfectly to now take on the responsibilities of this new challenge. Declan Hanratty, Chairman of ECI Group, commented, “These are exciting times for ECI and Gary’s appointment reflects the ambition we have to continually grow our businesses and provide professional, modern and accessible lighting and energy solutions to our customers in the Irish market and beyond.” As a result of Gary’s promotion, Mark Smith, who has been with ECI since 2017 as Management Accountant, will now take up the position of Financial Controller. During a tough last year and a half for the construction industry, the ECI Group has continued to grow, most recently with ECI Energy’s investment in Acutrace Ltd, an energy measurement software company, which will allow the ECI Group to offer additional energy-saving solutions to its clients. For more information, visit www.ecilighting.ie
Troy McConville, one of Vaughan Engineering Group’s electrical apprentices, was victorious in his event at the European Athletics Promotion held in Hexham, UK in June. He finished first and scored an overall points total of 6,957 competing in: 100m, long jump, shot put, high jump, 400m, 110m hurdles, discus, pole vault, javelin and 1500m. A spokesperson from Vaughan Engineering Group said, “Not only is Troy working full- time and progressing very well through his apprenticeship, but he is also achieving fantastic results in his sport. “We are incredibly proud of Troy’s talent and we look forward to continuing to support him European athleticswin for Vaughan apprentice
Vaughan Engineering’s electrical apprentice, Troy McConville, brings home a first from European Athletics Promotion meet.
Mark Smith who will now take up the position of Financial Controller.
through his competitions.” www.vaughan-group.co.uk
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 7
NORTHERN IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL AWARDS
RECOGNISING NORTHERN IRELAND’S TOP ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS, CONSULTANTS, WHOLESALERS, MANUFACTURERS, PEOPLE, PRODUCTS AND PROJECTS.
ENTER NOW Contact Karen Jess on… T: (NI) 028 9261 2990 or (ROI) 01 6968319 or email awards@kmpltd.co.uk for more details
2021 CATEGORIES
• Apprentice of the Year • Commercial Electrical Project of the Year • Contractor’s Awards • Domestic Electrical Project of the Year • Electrical Product of the Year • Electrical Wholesaler Awards • Fire & Security Contractor of the Year
• Ireland’s Electrician of the Year • Lighting Product of the Year • Lighting Project of the Year • Manufacturer of the Year • Overall Achievement Award • Sales Representative of the Year • Special Recognition Award • Specialist Contractor of the Year
ENTRY DEADLINE 3PM THURSDAY 3 SEPTEMBER 2021
• Supplier of the Year • Unsung Hero Award
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NORTHERN IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL AWARDS
NORTHERN IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL AWARDS ARE BACK FOR 2021…
LIGHTING PROJECT of the Year
W e are delighted to announce Northern Ireland’s Electrical Awards are back in 2021 to celebrate the achievements of those making an impact in the industry. Organised by Electrical Magazine, this year’s event will recognise the top electrical contractors, consultants, suppliers, people, products and projects from across Northern Ireland. While Covid-19 continues to wreak havoc with physical award ceremonies and events, we are determined to recognise the achievements of members of the electrical industry during this extraordinary time of global pandemic and believe that these successes deserve to be celebrated now more than ever. For that reason, we are thrilled to confirm that we will be hosting a virtual awards ceremony in October 2021 which will be broadcast to over 8,700 followers across Ireland’s Electrical Magazine’s YouTube and social media channels and presented by Northern Ireland’s best loved presenter, Adrian Logan. As usual, the awards will be judged by an independent panel of respected industry experts that will have the difficult task of selecting winners from the various categories. So, if your company or someone you know has excelled in the industry over the past two years, please get involved and enter them for this year’s awards. You are welcome to enter multiple categories but remember that the DEADLINE for all entries is 3rd September 2021. To request an entry form or to receive further information on Northern Ireland’s Electrical Awards 2021, you can contact our team on T: +44 28 9261 2990, E: awards@kmpltd.co.uk Entries open for Northern Ireland’s Electrical Awards
PREVIOUS WINNER - E.J. HARPER & CO AND DAVID MURPHY DESIGN
DOMESTIC PROJECT SMALL / LARGE of the Year
PREVIOUS WINNER - JAMES HAUGHEY & CO
COMMERCIAL PROJECT of the Year SMALL / MEDIUM/ LARGE
PREVIOUS WINNER - MICHAEL NUGENT LTD
APPRENTICE of the Year
PREVIOUS WINNER - CALUM MCAULEY NRC - ALEXANDER BONAR & CO LTD
SALES REPRESENTATIVE
of the Year
PREVIOUS WINNER - STEPHEN ARMSTRONG KEW ELECTRICAL
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
HOW TO ENTER
PREVIOUS WINNER - WILLIAM HUTCHISON OMAK AGENCIES
STEP 1 : Tel: +44 (0)28 9261 2990 (NI) / +353 (0)1 696 8319 (ROI) or e-mail: awards@kmpltd.co.uk to request an entry form for the relevant category/categories. STEP 2: Complete the entry form providing as much information as possible. Give the judges detailed information, including testimonials, images and facts and figures. STEP 3: Return your entry forms to: awards@kmpltd.co.uk. STEP 4: The independent panel of judges will meet to go through all the entries and, using a scoring matrix, will select the finalists and winners. STEP 5: Winners will be notified at the end of September 2021. STEP 6: Presentations will be made and circulated on YouTube and social channels.
UNSUNG HERO
PREVIOUS WINNER - IAN LITTLE LITTLE ELECTRICAL
OVERALL ACHIEVEMENT
PREVIOUS WINNER - ALFIE WATTERSON - ECA
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 9
WEHAVE MOVED!
FURTHER TO OUR ACQUISITION BY KEMPSTON CONTROLS, WE’VE NOWMOVED OUR HEAD OFFICE AND DISTRIBUTION CENTRE TO DUNDALK.
YOUCANNOWFINDUSAT:
WEAREHERE
1 Coes Road, Dundalk Co. Louth A91Y6FH +353 (0) 42 9359390 electrical@kempstoncontrols.ie www.kempstoncontrols.ie
NEWS
Newcourse to combat national shortage of electrical repair technicians
Ireland is set to train a new generation of repair technicians to prevent thousands of tonnes of electrical appliances going to waste. An industry-wide drive to extend the lives of fixable white goods has been fast-tracked to combat a major shortage of electrical repair experts – whose average age is now 59. The new ‘Circular Economy Skills Initiative’ course aims to produce enough experts to cap
Declan McElwaine of Electrical Appliance Services in Donegal, with the key partners supporting an industry-wide drive to combat a major shortage of electrical repair experts.
electrical goods in circulation for longer. However, we must go further in encouraging circular activity by including the repair and reuse of electrical products in the EU takeback target and not solely end-of-life recycling targets.” The Circular Economy Skills Initiative course is free of charge and those interested in participating can apply at: https://fit.ie/circular-economy-skills- initiative/. Full driving licence is required by the completion of training.
the-art centre in Dunshaughlin, Co Meath. Up to 20 trainees will complete the initial pilot 26-week programme, followed by 12 weeks’ guaranteed work placement with leading white goods industry supporters of the programme. “This new course is a fantastic solution to some of the circular economy challenges WEEE Ireland members face,” said WEEE Ireland CEO, Leo Donovan. “It helps address a skill that is vital to ensuring we can keep householders’
ensure thousands of washing machines, fridges and dishwashers are given a new lease of life in homes and businesses across the country. WEEE Ireland, the White Goods Association and technical training agency FIT (Fast Track to IT) joined forces to create the innovative curriculum and career pathway. The free training course will be run with the support of Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) in a state-of-
Nittan sponsors ‘Fire EngineeringApprentice of theYear’ for five years
Following its inaugural sponsorship of South Eastern Regional College’s (SERC) Fire Engineering Apprentice of the Year award in 2020, fire detection manufacturer Nittan Europe has announced its continued support of the award across five years. As part of the sponsorship, Nittan has supplied a trophy and a prize, plus donated over 80 fire alarm products for students to train on. This year’s Fire Engineering Apprentice of the Year was Megan Davidson, who was presented with the trophy alongside 2020’s winner Adam Smylie who was unable to collect his award last year due to Covid restrictions. Stuart Rankin, Deputy Head of School
for Construction, Engineering Services and Skills for Work at SERC, said, “They are excellent apprentices within the college and a real asset to their employers. Both were very deserving of the award”. He added,
Megan Davidson and Adam Smylie, Fire Engineering Apprentice of the Year 2021 and 2020, respectively.
“On behalf of the college I would like to send my thanks to Nittan for support and arranging the ‘Nittan Shield’.” Nittan’s Regional Sales Manager (North), Steve McCarley, said, “Now more than ever, we need to ensure young people have the training resources they need to be able to learn and develop their skills.
The fire industry represents a good career choice, with engineers always in demand. We value the work being done by SERC, and by our Elite Partner installers such as Solutions for Systems who take the time
to support these apprentices.” For more information, go to www.nittan.co.uk
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COVER STORY
CALTECH ADDS WORLD-RENOWNED E2S WARNING SIGNALS TO PRODUCT LINE... E2S is a signal of quality for Caltech
C altech Electrical Supplies Ltd has strengthened their product line and commitment to providing quality products for their customer base with the addition of E2S warning signals to their stable of top brand names. The highly specialised electrical and control supplier processes orders from some of the world’s biggest electrical supplies companies to clients representing a wide range of industry sectors from pharmaceutical, biomedical and oil and gas as well as a wide range of electrical contractors all over Ireland. The Cork-based business recently doubled their turnover in 2021 despite the current pandemic. This was as a result of an additional customer base and increased demand within their operating sectors. Caltech’s exciting new relationship with E2S represents a further step towards delivering an even greater range of high quality product ranges for clients. E2S is the world’s leading independent warning signals manufacturer with 30
years of engineering expertise. Their worldwide-approved products combine the latest technology with leading industrial design and build quality to deliver signals you can depend on. Working together with system integrators, engineers, and end-users E2S continuously innovate to develop the most comprehensive range of signalling products with substantial benefits such as ease of interface, quick installation, flexible customisation and reliable performance. “This is why our clients around the world trust E2S to protect their people and promote safety in their processes,” explained an E2S spokesperson, adding, “The E2S global network of distributors and partners, sustained by our highly efficient operations and logistics, provide fast product delivery and excellent local customer support.” AlertAlarm and AlertAlight Caltech is now your source for all E2S products including AlertAlarm and
AlertAlight, which contain the standard E2S set of 64 international alarm tones and four remotely activated stages/ channels. First and second stage tones can be set individually, permitting greater flexibility in tone choice. Pluggable, duplicated terminals facilitate Class A wiring and reduce installation time. The A100/AL100 produces up to 110dBA whilst the industry standard A105N/AL105N utilises an enclosure design with threaded cable entries to simplify installation. A112N/AL112N and A121/AL121 type products contain the latest in Class D amplification and feature additional methods of stage control. A choice of two power modes is available during installation, enabling the optimum level of current consumption and sound output to be selected for the application. Globally approved to UL and EN standards for fire and general signalling, core products are DNV approved and
“E2S is the world’s leading independent warning signals manufacturer.”
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COVER STORY
“Caltech’s exciting new relationship with E2S represents a further step towards delivering an even greater range of high quality product ranges for clients.”
MED compliant to the latest directive for marine applications across all voltages. Third party approvals are provided by default across the ranges to ensure compliance with the latest standards and directives wherever the application is located. The M range signals feature robust, thermoplastic fire-retardant enclosures with 316 (A4) stainless steel mounting brackets – ideal for applications in harsh environments where Type 4/4X/13/3R IP66/67 protection is required. For applications that require an even higher level of sound output the new MA2H alarm horn sounder is now available. Utilising the new E2S ‘2H’ super high output flare horn – engineered to maximise audible signalling performance across the widest range of frequencies – the MA2H offers a sound level of up to 130dB(A). The alarm horn sounder DC voltage range is now 10 to 60Vdc whilst the AC versions now include a universal power supply suitable for inputs of 100 to 240Vac. High voltage DC versions are available on request. The STEx family
encompasses audible, visual, and combined warning devices and manual call points, all employing 316L stainless steel enclosures. Designed for installation in the harshest of onshore and offshore environments where corrosion is a particular problem, the units are IECEx and ATEX approved for Zones 1 and 21 for use in hazardous areas containing both gas and dust. Extended certification and operational temperature ranges enable the STEx family to be employed in the most arduous of applications. Members of the STEx family are also DNV approved for on-deck marine use. The STExS alarm horn sounders, with a choice of traditional flared or omni-directional horns, are available with 64 alarm tone frequency patterns and outputs up to 123dB(A). STExB beacon light source is available in either a 10, 15 or ultra-bright 21 Joule Xenon strobe, halogen rotating or an array of high output LEDs. STExC combination signals contain both Xenon strobe and audible signals in one compact enclosure – reducing installation time and cost. The field-replaceable colour lens filters feature a prismatic design for enhanced light output, generating
industry-leading candela values. The STExCP8 call points, approved for deployment in SIL 2 complaint systems, are available with the innovative E2S termination unit, enabling EOL and series devices to be added in the field without disturbing field wiring. The call point range is available in four operating mechanisms: traditional break glass with plastic-coated safety glass, push button, push button with tool reset and momentary action push button. Stainless steel blanking plugs are provided with all units; cable entries are M20, ½” NPT, ¾’’ NPT or M25. All external hardware such as beacon dome guards and mounting brackets are 316 (A4) stainless steel as standard. Building on legacy Over the last 25 years, Caltech has built up a core group of high-end electrical and control suppliers who they work closely with to give customers an efficient and quality service. Caltech also works closely with engineering houses, contractors and on-site engineers to help develop solutions for a wide range of applications in sectors such as pharmaceutical, biomedical, oil and gas. The new relationship with E2S offers a perfect partnership in that endeavour.
The explosion/flameproof STEx family from E2S Warning Signals
Caltech Electrical Supplies Ltd, Unit 3, Doughcloyne Court Industrial Estate, Sarsfield Rd, Wilton, Cork, T12 T207. T: +353 (0)21 434 2221 - E: sales@caltech.ie / info@caltech.ie www.caltech.ie
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 13
ECS CHECK
ECS LAUNCHES CPD DIGITAL SYSTEM TO HELP IDENTIFY AND MONITOR ONGOING COMPETENCE STANDARDS THROUGHOUT THE INDUSTRY… Demonstrate your skills and knowledge digitally
T he Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) has announced the launch of a new Continued Professional Development (CPD) digital system, which it believes will play a key role in helping better identify and monitor ongoing competence standards throughout the industry. The ECS CPD system offers all ECS card holders a free online portfolio, so you can easily save evidence of your skills and knowledge, which helps aid personal development and continuous improvement. ECS card holders will initially be able to keep their CPD status up to date through the MyECS section on the ECS website. This will be rolled-out to other services such as the MyECS App and for employers to
manage on behalf of their workforce through the Employer Portal later this year.
account. This will help to bolster the ability for employers and clients to quickly identify achievements and certifications on individuals through one system recognised UK-wide for site access and competence verification.” Once the system is live, ECS card holders should login to their MyECS Portal to view their CPD record and start to log their activities, upload or have verified any new technical certificates and update their card as necessary. For more information, visit www.ecscard. org.uk or email ecscheckni@ecscard.org. uk or call 01322 661 622.
The new CPD recording system will allow card holders to use their MyECS account as their record for all relevant qualifications, certificates, professional memberships and accreditations as well as other types of CPD such as inductions, toolbox talks or in house training, development, and lifelong learning. Jay Parmar, CEO of the Joint Industry Board (JIB), explained, “This positive development helps us ensure that the digital system will recognise a whole variety of CPD activities undertaken by card holders within their virtual My ECS
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PVC-U& Aluminium
• Designs, dimensions and cable capacities to meet the latest standards and to accommodate building designs and construction parameters • Products can comply
A comprehensive range of trunking systems available
to Part M Building Regulations for the visuallay impaired
• Antimicrobial trunking systems with an integral formulation preventing 99.9% of harmful bacterial growth • Stylish and practical trunking systems that complement modern classroom environments • Compliant to Cat7a Data Cabling
Sterling Profile
Sterling Curve
Twin Plus Aluminium
Bench Aluminium
Odyssey
Elegance 110
Sterling XL
Twin Plus
For further information contact the sales team:
Core ROI
T: +353 (0)1 453 7033 T: +44 (0)28 9002 0066
E: sales@coreelectrical.ie E: info@coreelectrical.com
Core NI
www.coreelectrical.com
CABLES AND CABLE MANAGEMENT
CORE DISTRIBUTION OFFER A COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF PVC-U TRUNKING SYSTEMS, INCLUDING ONE, TWO OR THREE COMPARTMENT OPTIONS… PVC-U trunking
Sterling Compact
Sterling Profile 1, 2 and 3
140 X 50mm
167 X 57mm
Sterling Compact is an economical and stylish three-compartment trunking. Each compartment can be accessed independently.
Sterling Profile 1, 2 and 3 is a popular, stylish, medium-sized system for dado and skirting applications with three segregated compartments. Sterling Profile 1 has been tried and tested within the educational environment over many years.
Sterling Curve Profile 1 and 2
Odyssey
167 X 57mm
180 X 57mm
Sterling Curve Profile 1 and 2 is a stylish, medium-sized trunking system for dado and skirting applications with three segregated compartments. Sterling Curve Profile 1 has curved outer compartments designed to stop clutter, avoid dust traps and make cleaning easier.
Odyssey offers a curved profile dado trunking with one main compartment and two smaller compartments designed specifically for heavy traffic areas such as classrooms. Odyssey’s curved profile is designed to prohibit clutter, avoid dust traps and makes cleaning easy.
Twin Plus
Bench trunking
220 X 57mm
105 x 105mm
Twin Plus is an attractive, high capacity segregated two- compartment system, ideal for schools, colleges and universities requiring large quantities of Cat7a data cabling throughout classrooms and computer suites.
Bench trunking, an easy-to-install, robust and angled trunking, Bench trunking can be mounted directly on workbenches or angled under shelving. The single compartment can be subdivided if required.
Each of these ranges are Cat7a data compliant and have accessories available to achieve Part M Compliance
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CABLES AND CABLE MANAGEMENT
STRONG, FUNCTIONAL AND AESTHETICALLY PLEASING, CORE DISTRIBUTION’S RANGE OF ALUMINIUM TRUNKING IS THE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR ANY ENVIRONMENT…
Aluminiumtrunking
Elegance 110
Sterling Curve AluminiumProfile 1 and 2
110 x 55mm
167 X 50mm
Elegance 110 is an impact resistant dado trunking system with a single lid cover. It’s an excellent choice for educational areas requiring a stylish yet robust trunking system,
Sterling Curve Aluminium Profile 1 and 2 is a robust and stylish Cat 7a compliant dado or skirting system designed to stop clutter, avoid dust traps and to make cleaning easy.
particularly effective where a high quality of screening performance and security is required.
Twin Plus
Bench trunking
220 X 57mm
105 x 105mm
A strong and attractive high capacity segregated two compartment system, Twin Plus is ideal for schools, colleges and universities, just like its PVC alternative.
The Bench trunking is an easy-to-install, robust, angled trunking that can be mounted directly onto laboratory and medical workbenches or angled under shelving. The single compartment can be subdivided if required.
Greener future In 2020 Core’s manufacturing partner, Marshall- Tufflex Ltd, used an average of 74% recycled PVC-U across their product ranges. Every year they make it their goal to use a minimum of 50% renewable materials in all their PVC offerings. Some of the ranges are even made from 100% recycled PVC-U. They are leading the way to a greener future with PVC cable management. Core Distribution Ireland and Northern Ireland both stock and promote the use of recycled PVC-U ranges and strive to work with others to make a greener more eco-friendly future in the Irish construction industry.
Dublin: T: +353 (0)1 453 7033 - E: sales@coreelectrical.ie Belfast: T: +44 (0)28 9002 0066 - E: info@coreelectrical.com www.coreelectrical.com
For more information about Marshall Tufflex contact:
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ASSOCIATION NEWS
THE ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS’ ASSOCIATION (ECA) IS THE AUTHORATIVE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY AND IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL PROVIDES A FORUM FOR THE ORGANISATION TO HIGHLIGHT ITS IMPORTANT WORK...
PAUL WILLIAMS, ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION’S HEALTH & SAFETY MANAGER AND MENTAL FIRST AID ‘TRAIN THE TRAINER’, TALKS ABOUT POOR MENTAL HEALTH AND HOWELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS ARE STEPPING UP SUPPORT… Mental health first aid in the electrical sector
W ith the rising incidence of worth remembering that mental health issues, which can range from stress to anxiety and severe depression, can affect managers and other employees alike, and the impacts can very quickly affect families. mental health problems during the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s Over 85% of the construction workforce is male and over 50% of the sector is made up of self-employed, agency staff or zero-hour contract workers – consistently noted as some of the most stressful working arrangements in the economy. In the face of this considerable challenge, many large engineering services businesses have increased their mental health support. A Covid-19 Impact survey commissioned by ECA showed nine out of 10 large electrical and other engineering services businesses (89%) now train teams of staff as Mental Health First Aiders. These findings were part of a wider benchmarking survey of larger ECA Members on the impact of Covid-19, completed by 24 of the largest engineering services firms in the UK, with a combined turnover of several billion pounds. Almost half of those responding to this survey went on to mention “communication,” or “workplace stigma and perceptions” as challenges to managing mental health. Around a third of respondents referred to the difficulty of measuring outcomes, both in terms of improved mental health and quantifying the return on investment in mental health support measures. Philip Hamblett, Contract Manager at N
Smith Electrical, was one of the first to take the Mental Health First Aider course delivered by ECA. Over the last year, 20 of the firm’s employees were furloughed and on their return to work, Philip spoke to each employee individually. He said, “A lot of younger staff communicate by text rather than speaking with people. This is not good if they have an issue concerning them, as they do not discuss it. By meeting them separately, it gave me the chance to check they were OK and also the chance to discuss any concerns about the pandemic, be it working on site and ensuring site safety; or discussing the loss of a friend or loved one.” The road ahead… For many, the coronavirus crisis has worsened isolation, affected working hours, sleep and exercise patterns and increased job uncertainty. Against this backdrop, it’s encouraging to see contractors reporting significant and increasing engagement with employee mental health. Perhaps the main progress to date is to recognise that this is a widespread, not exceptional issue, that can and should be more openly talked about. The way forward - now and in the future - cannot be to simply tell someone to ‘man up’. There are now plenty of sources of support and advice helping to address mental health issues – including not doing the things which can make it worse – which can provide massive benefits for employees and business alike. For more information regarding the support and benefits on offer to ECA Members, visit: www.eca.co.uk
Paul Williams, ECA Health & Safety Manager and Mental First Aid ‘Train the Trainer’.
Support and advice ECA runs a series of Mental Health First Aider courses, led by Health and Safety Manager Paul Williams. Visit www.eca.co.uk to find out more. The Electrical Industries Charity is running a series of virtual mental health and wellbeing courses. For more information and to book your place, visit www.electricalcharity.org/training In ROI, the Irish Electrical Benevolent Association (IEBA) provides help to members of the electrical industry and their families who have experienced difficulties such as depression. visit: www.irisheba.ie For further mental health advice and resources for the construction industry, visit www.matesinmind.org
www.eca.co.uk
ECA - T: Alfie Watterson NI and ROI Regional Manager, +44 (0)7971 141911 - E: alfie.watterson@eca.co.uk
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 19
COMPANY NEWS
The team at Kew Electrical Belfast.
DOUBLE CELEBRATION YEAR FOR KEW ELECTRICAL AND EDS & EDS... Many happy returns for KewElectrical
L ongevity in any sector of business demands respect, so we should all salute Kew Electrical, an award- winning wholesaler, who is celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. Started by Geoff Kerly, in his spare bedroom in Brighton, 25 years ago, Kew Electrical has grown to twenty-six branches including Kew Electrical Belfast, formally Edwards & Edwards, which was added to the UK network in 2008. The takeover of Eds & Eds in Belfast, est. 1906, marked Kew’s first venture far outside its home territory of the south of England. “It was slightly off the patch,
yes,” said Geoff, “but it was quite a strong business and didn’t cost a lot of money. It also gave Kew some additional volume.” Today, Kew Electrical has an annual turnover approaching £100 million and is the largest member of the Fegime buying group where Geoff has been chairman twice. Despite the woes of 2020 and the pandemic, Geoff said Kew is, “probably in the strongest financial shape we have ever been in. These things make you look at every element of your business. We’ve saved an absolute fortune this past year just by looking at everything very closely.”
Kew has been able to survive the Covid storm in part because of its continuing small company ethos, which gives it an agility that others cannot match. “It is a differentiator,” explained MD Nik Mulcahy. “Geoff and I can make quick decisions within the business – and it happens. We might be a £100 million business, but we still have control of the whole thing.” Family business “There is still a ‘Kerly family firm ethos’ to Kew, he added, “which obviously is harder to keep going as we approach
“Kew Electrical has witnessed and survived many uncertain and turbulent times since its foundation.”
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COMPANY NEWS
£100 million turnover and 400 staff – that’s a big family to be a part of.” Staff retention and development has been a hallmark of the company since the start, said Geoff. “Lots of them have joined us as 16 or 18-year-olds and 5, 10 or 15 years later, they’re still there. I’m sure it’s that family ethos that they enjoy being a part of.” Nor has the pandemic been able to disrupt Kew Electrical’s award-winning streak. The company’s bulging trophy cabinet now holds two more Electrical Wholesaler Awards – Branch of the Year for Dover and, for the first time, Best Wholesaler with 26 or more branches. Not only that, but Kew has also just become one of 1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain, as judged by the London Stock Exchange Group, which identifies the most dynamic small and medium- sized enterprises in the UK and Europe. The Belfast branch has also racked up some of its own trophies within the wholesaler category at the Northern Ireland Electrical Industry Awards each year from its inception in 2013. Kew Electrical Belfast has survived many uncertain and turbulent years of operation since its foundation. This resilience based on long-term planning has provided them with the strength to weather the worst of economic storms. For example, their £700K stockholding in Belfast pre-empted the distribution delivery crisis facing a lot of companies due to Brexit and the NI protocol. They also proudly supported the NHS by bringing vital electrical equipment to all hospitals and other medical facilities in NI throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. Today, the company is looking forward to future opportunities. “Let’s just get this next two or three months out of the way and let things settle down,” concluded Geoff. “Once we can see exactly where our sector is going, we will start looking at expansion again. “There are going to be a number of opportunities, and our priority is that we are financially strong enough to take them when they arise.”
Mark Bolton, Ryan McCleery, Alan Bingham and Adam Gibson, Internal Sales Team.
Geoff Kerly, Managing Director, Kew Electrical.
T: +44 (0)28 9047 1727 E: belfast@kewelectrical.co.uk www.kewelectrical.co.uk
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 21
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F ounded in 2011, Core Distribution Northern Ireland was created to respond directly to the needs of the local electrical industry. As a specialist in providing cable management systems, they offer a full range of plastic and aluminium containment and are now delighted to be adding steel to their product range. Unistrut steel New to Core Distribution NI is a complete range of Unistrut steel cable containment. You most certainly already know Unistrut for their range of steel channels, also commonly called struts, but they also manufacture cable trays, trunking, ladders, brackets, fittings and accessories, all available from Core Distribution NI in pre-galvanised, hot- dipped galvanised and stainless steel to suit all applications. 10-year warranty You know how important products that support the whole installation are, and how crucial it is to have confidence in the pedigree of the material used. This is why, when using a total Unistrut metal framing solution, from lengths through to the fittings and accessories, you qualify for a 10-year warranty*.
Trusted supplier With fast delivery thanks to large local stockholding, Core Distribution Northern Ireland has built a reputation as a trusted supplier to the electrical industry, offering contractors and wholesalers alike quality products from recognised brands as well as a hassle-free collection service and delivery to sites on large orders (NI & GB). CORE DISTRIBUTION NI OFFERS A COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF FIRST FIX CABLE MANAGEMENT PRODUCTS, INCLUDING: • Steel containment (struts, trays, baskets, trunking, ladder, etc.) • Metallic and non-metallic flexible conduits and fittings • New fast-fit support systems Traditional 8 or 10mm threaded rod • Chop & Wrap: strut cut to your project specifications, packed and delivered to site in kits • Fast Trak prefabricated trapeze brackets • All systems remove the need for hot- works permits, abrasive wheel training and a designated area on site. They also offer a comprehensive range of second fix cable management products, including PVC-U trunking systems and
aluminium trunking systems. Contractor or wholesaler, it’s worthwhile getting in touch with the Core NI team for competitive prices, immediate availability, technical expertise, quick quotation turnaround, flexibility and support. *Terms and conditions apply Benefits of workingwith CoreDistributionNI • Recognised brands • Large local stock • Project pricing on single or multiple ranges • Delivery to site on large orders (NI & GB) • Technical support • Labour-saving solutions
NI Distribution For more information contact, Belfast: T: +44 (0)28 9002 0066
E: info@coreelectrical.com www.coreelectrical.com
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 23
PROJECT
GRANDOPERAHOUSE, BELFAST
“The installation of state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems will meet modern-day theatregoer expectations.’
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PROJECT
GRANDOPERAHOUSE, BELFAST
W illiam Coates Ltd can of a challenging electrical installation during restoration work at the iconic Grand Opera House. As part of the £12.2 million restoration and development project, the theatre’s electrical and technical infrastructure was fully upgraded. celebrate a spectacular end result with the completion The installation of state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems will meet modern-day theatregoer expectations; while also being aesthetically sensitive to the historical fabric of the building. Also, a permanent heritage exhibition was installed, telling the fascinating story of the auditorium’s 125-year history. William Coates was responsible for the installation of all electrical systems throughout the project including all new lighting, power, audio visual, stage lighting and life safety systems. AWARD-WINNING ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR COMPLETES LANDMARK PROJECT IN BELFAST… CURTAINUP ON ICONIC PROJECT
William Coates Ltd, 37 Mallusk Road, Newtownabbey T: +44 (0)28 9034 2560 - E: info@williamcoates.com www.williamcoates.com
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 25
PROJECT
GRANDOPERAHOUSE, BELFAST
Victorian master The Grand Opera House was designed by the leading Victorian theatre architect Frank Matcham and opened on 23 December 1895. Many of the world’s leading actors, singers, dancers and entertainers have appeared on its stage, including Charlie Chaplin, Sarah Bernhardt, Laurence Olivier, Vera Lynn, Luciano Pavarotti, Darcey Bussell, and Laurel and Hardy. Speaking about the completion of the project, Ian Wilson, Chief Executive of the Grand Opera House said, “The Grand Opera House was last restored 40 years ago, and we are delighted that this vital project for the Belfast arts scene has been completed.
“The restoration of the iconic and unique 1895 auditorium is stunning and maximises the beauty of the original architecture. Alongside the transformation of the public areas and facilities within the building, theatregoers will have a much- improved experience from the minute they walk through our doors.” With fifty years of experience behind them, William Coates can undertake electrical projects of any size and any value. The Newtownabbey-based firm has built a dedicated team around its four core values of quality, value, service and delivery in all aspects of electrical engineering. This has enabled
“The restoration of the iconic and unique 1895 auditorium is stunning and maximises the beauty of the original architecture.”
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PROJECT
GRANDOPERAHOUSE, BELFAST
“As part of the £12.2 million restoration and development project, the theatre’s electrical and technical infrastructure was fully upgraded.”
Client: The Grand Opera House Trust Main Contractor: Tracey Brothers Architect: Consarc Design Group PROJECTTEAM...
the business to take projects from design through to completion, and follow up with necessary maintenance. William Coates’ projects range from state-of-the-art aerospace manufacturing facilities and prestigious national stadium projects to major new build/refurbishment projects and industrial process installations. Commenting on the project, Phil Quinn, Electrical Contracts Manager said, “This is a hugely important project for Northern Ireland’s art and culture sector and we are proud to have played our part in it. As a listed building, the Grand Opera House project offered us a wide range of challenges, but once again we
were able to utilise our experience to provide a bespoke solution. The timber construction of the auditorium and ornate plasterwork completed over 125 years ago presented many difficulties in installing state-of-the-art, 21st century electrical systems but working closely with the main contractor, Tracey Brothers, we managed to overcome the issues while protecting the original quality of workmanship that is evident for all to see and deserving of a building like this. “This is another example of the high quality projects that we continue to deliver in Northern Ireland and highlights the importance of the province to our company.”
Structural Engineer: Albert Fry Associates
Project Manager: WH Stephens Electrical Contractor: William Coates Ltd
M+E Designers: Semple & McKillop
William Coates Ltd, 37 Mallusk Road, Newtownabbey T: 0044 (0)28 9034 2560 - E: info@williamcoates.com www.williamcoates.com
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 27
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