Trades & Services : M&E News
Lutron and Ring Bring Security to Your Home

Lutron and Ring Bring Security to Your Home

Lutron Electronics, the global leader in lighting and shading control technology, has announced a first-ever product integration with Ring, whose mission is to make neighbourhoods safer. Now, lights controlled by a Lutron system can be set to turn on when a linked Ring device detects motion, or a Ring Video Doorbell

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What is a Commercial Ventilation System?

The welfare, health, and safety of workers should be the main concern for business owners. Apart from offering labor, employees can also save you a lot of money. The cash lost because of sickness, or other health problems costs businesses in the US billions of dollars. However, operating your machines

Read More »

SES Engineering Services embarks on latest blue light project

Leading national engineering specialist, SES Engineering Services (SES), has announced it is to commence work on its latest state-of-the-art custody suite project with lead contractor, Willmott Dixon. Working closely with both the contractor’s team and Nottinghamshire Police, SES has been appointed to deliver a full range of MEP services on

Read More »

Saving up on energy consumption the smart way

Have you been shopping around for the best medium voltage switchgear and circuit breakers? Are you frustrated because you have been paying heavy electric bills? The first step is to grab an efficient electric control system. Go for the best brand so that you can get hold of gadgets and

Read More »

Exploring the concept of Pixel Controllers

If you are planning to invest in something useful, then you should not miss out on a pixel controller. The pixel controller takes data from computer and converts it into a format that can get used by pixels. The format comprises of different protocols that uses three or four wires

Read More »

Johnson Controls commits to HVAC solutions to limit COVID-19 spread

Reimagining workplaces around the world in the new normal is more important than ever As towns, cities, and countries begin to reopen, people that live and work in buildings will need assurance building owners and operators are taking every precaution to ensure health and safety, starting with the air they breathe. Though

Read More »

New grid faceplates put Knightsbridge in pole position

Knightsbridge, one of the UK’s leading brands of wiring devices, accessories and lighting, has enhanced its product range with the introduction of grid faceplates to its popular screwless matt black portfolio of switches and sockets. Available in 1,2,3,4,6 and 8 gang formats, the new additions provide a stylish way to

Read More »

NAPIT’s Bill Allan looks at the requirements for contractors in the event that a temporary electrical installation is required

When many of us in the electrical contracting industry think of temporary electrical installations, we tend to think of the wide range of short-term installations such as public or private exhibitions or events, parties or events associated with the entertainment industry like touring shows, theatrical, radio, TV or film productions.

Read More »
Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

Trades : M&E News

Lutron and Ring Bring Security to Your Home

Lutron and Ring Bring Security to Your Home

Lutron Electronics, the global leader in lighting and shading control technology, has announced a first-ever product integration with Ring, whose mission is to make neighbourhoods safer. Now, lights controlled by a Lutron system can be set to turn on when a linked Ring device detects motion, or a Ring Video Doorbell is pressed. Adding lighting to these events adds another layer of security and furthers the impression that someone is home. The new integration is supported by Lutron’s RA2 Select smart lighting control system and compatible Ring devices. The Lutron and Ring alliance combines the best of both brands, offering users peace of mind, added convenience, and a welcoming environment for family and friends. Homeowners can set Lutron-controlled lights to turn on when motion is detected outside, have their front door and entry lights turn on when someone rings their Ring Video Doorbell, or utilise advanced motion settings to welcome guests to their family home with just the right light as they approach the front door. “Lutron is thrilled to launch this integration with Ring, which brings together two leaders in their industries – Lutron as a leader in smart lighting control and Ring as a leader in smart video doorbells and security cameras. At Lutron, we are committed to bringing our European customers seamless integrations with market-leading products to make life simpler and more comfortable,” said Nate Hagemeier, Lutron’s Senior Director of Sales – Europe and Africa. “A homeowner who has Lutron and Ring devices in their home can now have Lutron-controlled indoor and outdoor lights respond to a doorbell press or motion detected by a compatible Ring device, giving families personalised control and added peace of mind.” The Lutron and Ring integration is easily customised, allowing homeowners to decide which lights are connected to their Ring devices and which ones will turn on during a Ring event. For example, when the Ring Video doorbell rings, the porch light and living room light can be set to turn on, but when the driveway Ring Security Camera detects motion, users can set the lights in the backyard and patio to turn on.  Homeowners can also customise their settings based on the time of day, so lights only go on during an activity between sunset and sunrise. Customisation is easily done through the Lutron app, available for iOS and Android devices and the Amazon Fire tablet.

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Reasons To Install The Latest CCTV Camera Technology In Construction Sites

While CCTV systems are primarily used for security purposes, the latest technology has made these them even more useful in construction site management. Being a hive of activity, site managers undeniably need an extra set of eyes to monitor all the activities taking place on the construction site. The latest technology for CCTV makes these systems more efficient and accurate, making them indispensable tools for site managers. In fact, CCTV systems are arguably the best form of construction site management. Here’s why: Surveillance and Security A CCTV system will offer 24 hours, 365 days surveillance and is, therefore, a no-brainer for construction site managers who want to have eyes on all the activities on the construction site. With the latest CCTV cameras equipped with technology like night vision and motion detection, they provide the best security solution for construction sites. Particularly, modern CCTV systems can identify people who are activity within 20 meters and have clear visibility of up to 50 meters. Where advance night vision is needed, CCTV cameras with thermal imaging can be used on construction sites as they produce visible images through temperature detection of objects Modern CCTV cameras like automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras can read vehicle number plates. When connected to access control barriers, these cameras ensure that only pre-approved vehicles gain access into the construction site. Such top-level surveillance and management help prevent on-site crime, maintain internal safety, and observe security procedures.  Recording Activity An important aspect of CCTV systems is recording and storing video surveillance feed. Modern systems allow for the recording of the high-quality video feed and frame-by-frame playback of this feed. This helps review any suspicious activity or accident that could have been missed by the construction site manager.Technology like video compression for CCTV systems helps relay video feed, especially within an IP CCTV system, as well as storing video files. Video compression codec’s filter unnecessary frames per second without compromising the image quality of the videos. This way, construction site managers don’t have to worry about missing video feed or poor image quality when reviewing activities on the construction site.    Health and Safety  One of the legal duties of construction site managers is to ensure that everyone on the site is safe and secure, especially in the event of an emergency. With all the activities that go on in construction sites, workers and visitors may be at risk of injuries since they are generally hazardous places.  CCTV cameras provide a great way of monitoring the whole construction sites. CCTV cameras equipped with PTZ (pan, tilt, and zoom) and wide dynamic range technology make it easier for construction site managers to have a clear view of the entire site and act quickly in the event of emergencies. Real-Time Feedback Modern CCTV systems come with analytical software which realizes the environment and can, therefore, provide better surveillance even with disruptions that come with weather changes. Such intelligent systems can measure and compare various construction site parameters and can send an audio, SMS to the construction site manager whenever variations are detected.  Installing CCTV camera systems equipped with the latest technology helps provide better surveillance and security, access control, and helps keep occupants safe.

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What is a Commercial Ventilation System?

The welfare, health, and safety of workers should be the main concern for business owners. Apart from offering labor, employees can also save you a lot of money. The cash lost because of sickness, or other health problems costs businesses in the US billions of dollars. However, operating your machines properly or being secure on the catwalk can be a good way to enhance your workers’ safety.  By getting rid of contaminants, bringing in lots of fresh air, and removing dust fumes, an industrial ventilation system from a provider like Canarm might be the first line of defense against illnesses. Whether you need to ventilate your workspace or keep off pollutants, going for an effective system will ascertain that you breathe fresh air.  Parts of the System Depending on a particular situation, you may require a combination of some parts of the industrial ventilation system. For instance, when you want to ventilate your workspace, it may not be enough to buy a big fan. You’ll also have to do the necessary calculations so you can figure out the amount of airflow you require in the workspace to solve your air or heat quality requirements.  Beyond that, you may need to consider whether your application needs a negative, balanced, or positive pressure; otherwise, the consequences may be disastrous. To be on a safe side, consider various configurations of the propeller, including size, pitch, and shape. Other parts that a ventilation system may come with include the following: Dampers Air filters Silencers Dehumidifiers Dust collectors Louvers Different Types of the System The industrial ventilation system is divided into two main categories; local exhaust ventilation and dilution ventilation. Local exhaust ventilation aims at stopping pollutants before spreading. Unlike dilution ventilation, local exhaust system doesn’t depend on fans to disperse air. Instead, it works the same way vacuum does and usually results in a low amount of contaminants. For that matter, it can be convenient to get rid of the high amount of dust and toxic chemicals.  On the other hand, dilution ventilation may encompass a few techniques that range from allowing fresh air by opening windows and doors to using big fans. The main purpose of this system is to take air away from employees to ensure they don’t breathe in contaminated air while handling business projects. Safety of the Unit Rotating blades have a significant risk of injury, and should be handled with care and vigilance. If you are not careful, this may be hazardous to your respiratory system and eyes. For you to avoid such risks, it would be best to tag out and lock out the system when working on your equipment. You may also test it by operating the starter to make sure the whole unit is not energized.  Guards may keep employees safe from all sorts of dangers when operating a ventilation system. However, they can also become a commercial safety hazard, so it would be important to ensure guards are in a good state. Apart from guards and rotating blades, it may also be important to be careful with: Debris or any material entering the system Hot surfaces Blade failures Pinch points in sheaves Final Touches! Air quality is one of the powerful requirements that you need to provide for your workers. When you have a go with a commercial ventilation system, you will be in a better position to make your employees healthy, safe, and happy. Beyond that, you may also keep materials and products free from problems, which may come with impurities and pollution.

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SES Engineering Services embarks on latest blue light project

Leading national engineering specialist, SES Engineering Services (SES), has announced it is to commence work on its latest state-of-the-art custody suite project with lead contractor, Willmott Dixon. Working closely with both the contractor’s team and Nottinghamshire Police, SES has been appointed to deliver a full range of MEP services on a new multi-million pound 50-cell custody suite, currently under construction on a former gas works site in Nottingham.  Serving Nottingham and the wider conurbation, the new building’s design is more befitting 21st century custodial needs and will replace an existing facility which was deemed to be too outdated to benefit from a refurbishment. In the past five years, SES has delivered five custody suites for multiple Police forces and as such gained extensive experience and a reputation as a leader in its field in the blue light sector. This experience, coupled with SES’ and Willmott Dixon’s well-established working relationship, will ensure that the project is delivered to exacting requirements as set out by the Home Office, where specific ventilation and comfort conditions within custodial spaces must be met. To meet these needs, SES will be required to install a high volume of complex building services to the two-storey building.  In addition to the cells, the building will also provide first floor office accommodation for police investigators and the custodial handling team.    Speaking about the imminent start on site, SES’ managing director, Steve Joyce, said: “I am delighted to be collaborating once more with Willmott Dixon on a key project for Nottingham’s Police and Crime Commission and Nottinghamshire Police. Our proven track record of delivering projects requiring highly complex building services, particularly in this type of custodial environment, will ensure that the installation will be completed in a timely manner and to the high standards required by the Home Office. “The facility will also deliver a more efficient building than is currently used for such purposes.” James Elliment, Willmott Dixon’s senior operations manager, added: “I am delighted with the progress that is currently being made on site and pleased to welcome SES and its team as we enter the next phase of construction. I believe the project will undoubtedly benefit from our shared experience of creating state-of-the-art custodial facilities throughout the UK.” SES is expected to conclude the project spring 2021.

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Specialist Security Protects the Construction of Data Centres that Serve the World

A global social media giant opened new data centres late last year in County Meath, Ireland. One of just six such data centres across the world, they handle the data of their 2.5 billion users globally. With bases across Europe, site security specialists VPS Group were selected by the international building contractor Mace, to help protect and secure the construction of the massive data centres. Built on a 250-acre site, they deployed their award-winning VPS Smart Towers, state-of-the-art CCTV towers that are purpose-built to cope with the dynamics of ever-changing building sites.  Work on the huge data centre started in April 2016 and features two 2,300sq m (25,500sq ft) buildings currently housing eight data halls, linked by an administration building. A third data hall is currently under construction and two further blocks are going through the planning process. It is estimated to have cost €300m and at one stage was the largest building project in Ireland. Comprising day and night cameras, sensors and alarm systems, networked to an on-site monitoring station run by their partners, Provincial, the 20 towers covered the site 24/7, and were independently powered by hydrogen cylinders, with zero emissions, apart from water. “Theft of equipment, plant and fuel from construction sites is a major problem all over the world, with Ireland experiencing a 35% rise last year, with the value of stolen goods reaching almost €8 million” Says Eoin Foley, VPS Group’s Ireland Managing Director. “The VPS Smart Towers are fully loaded, that combine leading technologies, but they have two outstanding features. “One is their flexibility and their wireless connectivity which enables them to be moved around the site easily, without any cabling. For a dynamic construction environment that is critical, as the works areas will change almost daily, so that the Smart Towers will often be moved two or three times a week. And secondly, the hydrogen cylinders, with zero emissions apart from water, is an additional environmental benefit, and dovetails well with the primary client’s zero carbon commitment, as the data centre itself is fuelled by renewable energy.” Advanced camera technology wirelessly transmits live and recorded images over any mobile, WiFi or satellite network. 24/7 monitoring combined with siren warnings to create an extremely effective deterrent – as soon as an alarm is triggered, the on-site security operations centre can identify the exact location and send out a patrol immediately. The VPS Smart Towers incorporate vandal-proof pan-tilt zoom (PTZ) and fixed cameras, supplemented with infra-red illuminators, a variety of movement detectors; digital recorders, and a public address system can also be fitted. The unique combination of technologies and expertise has helped to prevent trespassers and crime on the site, and have won VPS Group several of Security and Excellence awards, including for Customer Care Initiative, Best Use of Technology, and Innovation of the Year. They are currently hold the Transport Technology Business of the Year Award.

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Saving up on energy consumption the smart way

Have you been shopping around for the best medium voltage switchgear and circuit breakers? Are you frustrated because you have been paying heavy electric bills? The first step is to grab an efficient electric control system. Go for the best brand so that you can get hold of gadgets and electric equipment at a reasonable price. Secondly, there are many simple steps that you can follow to reduce your electricity bill. Your bill will reduce by cutting down on the electricity consumption and we will guide you. Reducing your energy consumption Choose LED bulbs Go for an energy-efficient light bulb. For example, you can consider opting for LED bulbs.  They cost about 75% less than incandescent bulbs. The good news is that the LED bulbs do not have any mercury. They last 25 times longer than the traditional bulbs. Try to use power strips You should think along the lines to use power strips. The benefit of the power strips is that you can easily turn off all the devices in one go. When you flip the switch on the power strip, then it is equivalent to unplugging the socket from the wall. Consider eliminating the use of vampire power Are you familiar with the term vampire power? It refers to standby power. Devices like scanners and television even use power when turned off. The best approach is that you should unplug all the devices and appliances not in use. As a result, you will be able to eliminate the vampire power. You will need to make it a rule to turn on only one switch at once. Gradually, you will get into this habit and can reduce your power use. What you must keep in mind is that even your computer uses a lot of electricity. Make it a habit to turn your monitor off in the night. It is also vital to use refrigerator the wise way. For example, you need to set the temperature as recommended by the manufacturer. Ideally, you should not even leave your mobile for overnight charging. It tends to take up power too. Get into the habit of turning off the oven before the cooking time runs out. Your food will continue to cook for a few minutes even when you turn off power. However, you can save up on the power by turning off your oven early. Some people have a habit of peeping into the oven while baking. Well, you should avoid it by all means for sure. When you open the oven during baking, then the temperature drops at 25F. As a result, it tends to take up more electric power. There are times when your appliances use more electricity because you miss out on the maintenance. For example, you should make sure that you defrost your freezer or fridge. If there will be less ice buildup, the appliances will work more efficiency. Try to use natural light when possible. All these efforts will pay off eventually.

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Exploring the concept of Pixel Controllers

If you are planning to invest in something useful, then you should not miss out on a pixel controller. The pixel controller takes data from computer and converts it into a format that can get used by pixels. The format comprises of different protocols that uses three or four wires for communicating with the pixels. Now, choosing the best pixel controller can be difficult. The reason is most of us lack technical insight in this regard. We will make your struggle easy and guide you how to choose the best controller. Picking the best pixel controller You need to match your controller with your pixel type. When we talk about popular pixels then WS813, WS812 and WS811 tops the list. Most controllers tend to function with these pixels without a problem. If you plan to go for a small display, then a 4-port pixel controller will offer you value. However, when you plan to do a big display with different receivers, then you need to choose long-range controllers. Using Pixel controllers  The good news is that you can set the maximum intensity level for each string of pixels. You can easily go for a fancy configuration and assign the data to the exact lights. However, keep one thing in mind. Most of the Pixel Controllers have multiple ports. The best part is that you will be able to drive multiple pixel strings from the specific pixel controller. Every pixel string tends to have a maximum pixel count. When you buy the pixel controller, then remember that it will govern your lights. Now, handling the capability of a pixel controller can be a tricky part. The truth is that when you use the full capability of your pixel controller, then it can help you save up on your money. Types of Pixel Controllers There are different varieties of pixel controllers available in the market so you need to understand what you require. For example, you may come across an led pixel controller.  Talking about the Standard Pixel Controllers The simplest type of Pixel Controllers that exist today are the Standard Pixel Controllers. They tend to take the data from your computer. The data gets acquired through a network cable. The controller converts the data to the pixel outputs. The Standard Pixel Controllers tend to have 1 to 16 ports. Each port is capable of controlling 170 to 1000 pixels. Opting in for Long-Range Pixel Controllers When we talk about easy to work controllers, then you will prefer the Long-Range Pixel Controllers. The Long-Range Controllers are capable of splitting a conventional controller into half. The processing gets done on a centralized board. Well, the receivers can get placed next to the props. The benefit of this practice is that the pixels can plug-in without a problem. There are times when the receivers get placed hundreds of feet away from the central board.  Remember these essentials when choosing your pixel controller. You will be happy with your pick at the end of the day.

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Johnson Controls commits to HVAC solutions to limit COVID-19 spread

Reimagining workplaces around the world in the new normal is more important than ever As towns, cities, and countries begin to reopen, people that live and work in buildings will need assurance building owners and operators are taking every precaution to ensure health and safety, starting with the air they breathe. Though guidance around the transmission of COVID-19 continues to evolve, experts agree that indoor air quality should be a top priority. Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI), a global leader in creating safe and secure building environments, is committed to helping create spaces that put people at ease.  A healthy and safe environment starts with a holistic approach that encompasses a building’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) infrastructure. To do this, Johnson Controls can help building owners and operators identify strategies to increase outdoor air circulation, filtration options to provide better air quality, optimal temperature settings to slow the flow of airborne pathogens and the use of ultraviolet C (UV-C) lighting solutions to kill viral organisms. “Keeping people safe and secure in buildings has always been at the heart of our mission for 135 years, and as we look at a fundamental transformation how buildings operate, even the simplest of upgrades to full building retrofits will be important to reduce the transmission of disease,” said Mike Ellis, executive vice president and chief digital & customer officer, Johnson Controls. “The new normal means being prepared for the unexpected.” “As the UK comes out of lockdown, many business leaders and estates and maintenance managers are faced with the challenge of doing everything they can to keep occupants and visitors safe,” said Gail Hunter, General Manager HVAC and Energy, Johnson Controls UK & Ireland. “We know that HVAC solutions are an important part of the puzzle, alongside the technologies that enable buildings to be ‘contactless’. Now is the time to put the right solutions in place.” Even before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Johnson Controls annual Energy Efficiency Indicator found a desire by owners and operators to maintain healthy buildings. Although the current economic environment has changed dramatically, as the economy rebounds, owners and operators are expected to make further investments on behalf of the people who live and work in their buildings. Johnson Controls has a range of products and solutions to create healthier air in buildings: York Air Handling Units: To reduce airborne pathogens within a building, mixed-air HVAC systems should focus on increasing outdoor air ventilation. York air handling units allow customers to maximise outside air to displace contaminated air and increase ventilation and air change rates.  Koch® Filters: Effective air filters are intrinsic to a successful infection control plan. Koch’s clean air solutions include high efficiency air filters, HEPA filters, and portable HEPA solutions for increased building flexibility.  Critical Environment Controls: Room pressurisation, air change rates, humidity, and temperature are vital components in reducing airborne contaminants and preventing cross contamination within healthcare and laboratory facilities. The Johnson Controls line of Critical Environment Controls includes the broadest suite of products in the industry.  UV-C Lighting: Disinfectant lighting solutions are necessary to reduce pathogens both on surfaces and in the air. Johnson Controls offers a comprehensive suite of disinfecting lighting products, including retrofit options to keep facility disruptions and installation costs to a minimum. For more information on how we are helping reimagine buildings visit: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/campaigns/reopen-buildings

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New grid faceplates put Knightsbridge in pole position

Knightsbridge, one of the UK’s leading brands of wiring devices, accessories and lighting, has enhanced its product range with the introduction of grid faceplates to its popular screwless matt black portfolio of switches and sockets. Available in 1,2,3,4,6 and 8 gang formats, the new additions provide a stylish way to accommodate a variety of switching needs in one convenient place. The discrete lines – a profile of just 4.3mm – and concealed screw fixing mean that the finished installation looks elegant and unfussy, adding a touch of class and refinement as well as practicality. The new grid faceplates are an exciting addition to the already comprehensive matt black range of switches and sockets, further increasing the versatility and scope of this sought-after line-up. Offering a contemporary aesthetic, the matt black finish is just one of six available in the Knightsbridge range of wiring accessories that offer a modern twist in terms of style and functionality. Other finishes include matt white, brushed or polished chrome, black nickel and polished brass, all crafted to ensure lasting good looks. Whatever the application, whether charging iPhones, accessing a network, listening to music over Bluetooth or simply switching and dimming lights, there’s a Knightsbridge product that can do it beautifully. For further details of Knightsbridge’s innovative wiring accessory and lighting products, please visit www.mlaccessories.co.uk or call 01582 887760.

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NAPIT’s Bill Allan looks at the requirements for contractors in the event that a temporary electrical installation is required

When many of us in the electrical contracting industry think of temporary electrical installations, we tend to think of the wide range of short-term installations such as public or private exhibitions or events, parties or events associated with the entertainment industry like touring shows, theatrical, radio, TV or film productions. But in fact, temporary electrical installations are usually required at some stage for a range of new building projects, large and small, and even existing buildings can be subject to temporary installations. A temporary supply may also be required where a building is to be demolished or even needed due to unforeseen circumstances, such as failure of critical supplies. In short, temporary supplies are an integral part of the electrical installation industry. This article will address the topic of temporary electrical installations. We’ll discuss two specific scenarios, each requiring temporary supplies for different reasons and each having very different loads. We’ll then review some issues to consider when installing temporary power supplies. Scenario 1 – a data centre In a large data centre, a rising busbar with a source from an air circuit-breaker (ACB) rated at 3,200 A, supplies main switch panels each of which, in turn, supplies critical IT loads and their associated supporting infrastructure, such as cooling equipment. Due to recent flooding, the main busbar has shorted out, resulting in a loss of supply. An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) had been installed. The UPS system is comprised of a battery system to supply IT equipment during short-term outages, backed up by diesel generators. When the supply failed, the UPS system took over and performed as intended. However, a replacement busbar had a six-week delivery time and there would be a further delay to allow for its installation due to business critical issues. A realistic estimate was that it could take two to three months to replace the busbar. The manufacturer of the generators advised that the generators couldn’t be relied upon to maintain the supply adequately for that amount of time. To ensure resilience of supply for the critical system, a decision was taken for the temporary installation of cables to replace the rising busbar to power the critical loads until the replacement busbar could be installed. The cables could then be run from the original ACB to the main switch panels supplying the critical loads. Scenario 2 – a construction site                                                                             In a large construction site, the site project manager had underestimated the power requirements for the site and separate generators had to be installed to provide temporary supplies to the tower crane, hoist and maintained lighting for flats under construction. A document of interest is BS 7375:2010, Code of practice for distribution of electricity on construction and building sites. BS 7375 is referred to in two notes in Section 704 of BS 7671 with regard to PME earthing facilities and Regulation 704.411.3.1 places restrictions on the use of PME earthing for an installation falling within the scope of Section 704. Most construction sites are provided with a TT supply which requires an RCD to provide automatic disconnection in case of a fault. Regulation 704.411.3.2.1 states that an RCD with a rated residual operating current not exceeding 500mA must be used (consult this Regulation for the complete requirements). Guidance on earthing is contained in BS 7430:2011, Code of practice for earthing. Temporary electrical installations and BS 7671                                                                 Temporary electrical installations can carry risks, even in the most benign of environments. BS 7671 applies, not only to fixed installations, but also to temporary installations. There is no relaxation of safety standards in BS 7671 for temporary installations. BS 7671 defines a temporary electrical installation as an, ‘Electrical installation erected for a particular purpose and dismantled when no longer required for that purpose’ (Part 2, Definitions). Regulation 110.1.3 states that, in some cases, BS 7671 may need to be supplemented by the requirements or recommendations of other standards and, included in a list of examples is BS 7909, Code of practice for temporary electrical systems for entertainment and related purposes (item ix). Running temporary cables The cross-sectional area (csa) of the temporary cables must be adequate for the loads to be supplied, taking voltage drop into account together with any applicable rating factors. When running temporary cables which are buried in the ground, the general requirements for buried cables given in Regulation 522.8.10 must be consulted. That is, the cable must either be run in a conduit or duct or else have an earthed armour or metal sheath, or both, suitable for use as a protective conductor incorporated. Buried cables, conduits and ducts must be buried at a sufficient depth to avoid being damaged by any reasonably foreseeable disturbance of the ground. A depth of 0.5 m is generally considered as a minimum depth. When running temporary overhead cables, the guidance contained in Appendix G of IET Guidance Note 1, Selection and Erection and also in Table D2 of the IET On-Site Guide is applicable. Generally, overhead cables must be suitable and adequately supported with a maximum length of span of 30 m and a minimum height above ground of 5.8 m where vehicles may run underneath and 3.5 m in areas inaccessible to vehicles. Guidance for running underground and overhead cables in specific circumstances are given in Sections 708, 709, 730 of BS 7671. Conclusion     There is no limit to how long a temporary electrical installation may remain in operation and the designer must consider the possibility that it might remain in operation for longer than anticipated and design the system accordingly. When designing temporary installations, the risks must be assessed, and certification must be provided in accordance with BS 7671. Table 3.2 of IET Guidance Note 3 Inspection and Testing contains recommended initial frequencies of inspection of electrical installations. Temporary installations are not mentioned specifically but the recommendation that construction site installations should be inspected and tested every three months seems reasonable to apply to temporary installations. For more information on NAPIT, click here.

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