ESP launches Sangamo Round Pattern Time Switch

Sangamo (distributed by ESP) has been manufacturing its Round Pattern Time Switches for over 65 years, and in that time has sold more than 11 million units. The Round Pattern Time Switch is trusted by installers for a wide variety of applications, not just because of its reliability, but its ease of use. The simple dial and levers make setting the switch up for daily fixed timings a breeze with no complicated menu options to navigate through. All Round Pattern Time Switches are also 20 Amp rated, providing a more robust switch than most other products on the market. The switches are split into four categories: a) Basic ‘black dial’ 24-hour time clock for simple on and off switching of up to 20A b) Standard 24-hour ‘red dial’ switch with added 100 hour battery reserve c) Solar Range - specially designed for lighting applications d) Digital Range - the newest addition combines the high capacity and reliability of the electro-mechanical models but provides full seven-day programming. A long-standing reputation Sangamo says it regularly hears from people with Round Pattern Time Switches still going strong after 40 and 50 years. When they eventually need a new switch, they reasonably assume - because of its age - that it might not be possible to get a direct, like-for-like replacement. However, because the original design has never needed to be updated, an RPTS you buy today is completely interchangeable with one bought decades ago. The Sangamo range of specialist time switches and heating controls is distributed through ESP, a Scolmore Group company. For more from ESP, click here.

NICEIC brings together businesses at TechLive

NICEIC, a certification body for the UK’s electrical contracting industry, successfully hosted its flagship in-person CPD event, NICEIC TechLive, on 22 October at Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedford. The sold-out event brought together over 250 NICEIC-certified businesses for a full day of technical learning, regulatory updates, wellbeing discussions, and business support. Designed to provide tailored, accredited training opportunities, NICEIC TechLive featured 12 expert-led sessions, offering attendees practical insight into the latest developments affecting today’s electricians’ work and helping them maintain professional excellence. A breakdown of the event The day kickstarted with a plenary session hosted by Paul Collins, NICEIC Technical Director, covering the upcoming Amendment 4 of BS 7671, as well as recent updates to BS 5839 (fire systems) and BS 5266 (emergency lighting systems). Attendees also benefited from focused sessions on equipotential bonding for compliance, building regulations, and a live version of NICEIC’s popular EICR Coding Clinic, co-hosted with Electrical Safety First. NICEIC Technical Director Paul Collins comments, “NICEIC TechLive was designed with our contractors in mind - to give them the tools, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. "The feedback has been fantastic, and it’s clear the tailored format really resonated with attendees.” The event also highlighted the importance of wellbeing in the electrical industry. An interactive session on mental health and wellbeing was led by Danny Mouskovias, NICEIC’s Learning and Wellbeing Manager, alongside Grace Ellis, Director of Welfare at the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC). During the event, NICEIC also announced the launch of 'The Tools to Talk', a new mental health and wellbeing toolkit developed in partnership with the EIC. The initiative aims to support NICEIC-certified businesses and their teams by giving them access to digital resources, including a quarterly e-newsletter, interactive episodes of The Wire webinar series, and downloadable materials to encourage open conversations around mental health. NICEIC Learning and Wellbeing Manager Danny Mouskovias adds, “Looking after our mental health is becoming an increasingly important part of professional life, especially in high-pressure industries like ours. "Through The Tools to Talk, we’re helping contractors feel more confident in recognising when issues might arise and empowering them to start meaningful conversations within their teams.” A focus on high-quality learning CPD is an essential requirement of certification with NICEIC and the company says it is committed to supporting certified businesses with access to CPD. TechLive enabled attendees to accrue five hours of high-quality, accredited learning. Sponsors and exhibitors from across the sector were also present to share their expertise on the latest products, services, and innovations. Kirstie Elbourn, MM Electrical and Design, notes, “To [deliver the highest possible standards], we are continually brushing up our knowledge and staying informed on any changes that impact our work. "TechLive gave us the chance to attend a number of interesting technical sessions where we learnt a lot, and there were some great insights on how to engage with new customers which we're going to look at implementing.” For those unable to attend, session recaps and key takeaways will be made available on demand via NICEIC’s website and digital channels. For more from NICEIC, click here.

Collaboration in action to bridge the electrical skills gap in Kent

ECA (Electrical Contractors’ Association) Member businesses, industry bodies, education providers, and public authorities have joined together to create an alliance to tackle the shortage of electrotechnical skills in Kent and Medway. The soon-to-be-launched Kent & Medway Electrotechnical Training and Careers Alliance (ETCA) aims to strengthen electrotechnical skills development and careers provision within the county, as well as provide the competence and professionalism needed to meet the demand of electrification in the UK. The Alliance is a joint initiative led by ECA and its Members, alongside Kent and Invicta Chamber of Commerce. What the industry is saying Andrew Eldred, Deputy CEO at ECA, explains, “ECA Members in Kent & Medway know how important it is to get together and resolve the skills gap issue locally. It is crucial for meeting local and national targets for housing, industry, clean energy, and digital infrastructure. “This will be the fifth local Electrotechnical Training and Careers Alliance that has been launched in less than a year. It joins other ETCAs in Greater Manchester, the West Midlands, Cheshire & Warrington, and Cambridgeshire & Peterborough.” Stuart Gibson, Divisional Manager at ECA Member Niblock Electrical Services, adds, “Kent needs many more qualified, skilled electricians to achieve its huge economic potential. "As local employers and strong supporters of high-quality training, we and other ECA Members welcome the shared commitment shown by industry, education, local authorities and the Chamber of Commerce to start to address the opportunities and challenges Kent faces together through a new ETCA.” Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce is the Employer Representative Body appointed by the Secretary of State for Education to lead the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for Kent & Medway. Camilla Maurice, Kent & Medway LSIP Lead, says, “The Kent & Medway ETCA represents a decisive step towards building a future-ready electrotechnical workforce. "By aligning employer demand with high-quality training provision, we’re creating a collaborative framework to address critical skills shortages across housing, clean energy, and digital infrastructure. "This Alliance empowers businesses to shape the talent pipeline, unlock growth, and ensure Kent and Medway remain competitive and resilient in a rapidly evolving economy.” Who's involved? An ETCA roundtable event recently took place at the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce offices in Ashford, with a wide range of electrical businesses, industry bodies, education providers, and public authorities meeting together to discuss electrical skills priorities in the county. As a next step, it was agreed to draw up a formal list of participants and priority objectives, which will provide a starting point for the new Kent & Medway ETCA. One early piece of work will focus on barriers to recognition of prior learning for individuals seeking an apprenticeship after completing a college electrical course. The following organisations attended the roundtable and indicated their willingness to join the ETCA (while others may be invited to get involved as the ETCA takes shape): Electrical businesses: • Chord Engineering, Maidstone • Gilbert & Stamper, Tonbridge • Niblock Electrical Services, Bromley • Triple Star Fire & Security, Orpington Electrical industry bodies: • ECA • Joint Industry Board (JIB) / Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) • NICEIC • The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) • Build UK Education providers: • East Kent College • Electrical Academy • JTL • Mid Kent College • North Kent College Regional/Local bodies: • Kent County Council • Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce • Medway Council For more from ECA, click here.

HellermannTyton develops new tool for cable tie removal

Cable management manufacturer HellermannTyton has expanded its application tooling range with the introduction of the EVO CUT, a hand tool designed for the safe removal of cable ties without damaging underlying cables or harnesses. The tool allows users to cut cable ties either at the head or along the strap, helping reduce the risk of damage during installation, maintenance, or modification work. It can be used with cables of any diameter or construction, making it suitable for use across multiple sectors, including automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, rail, and cable harness manufacturing. Improving safety and cable protection Graeme Morley, Product Manager for HellermannTyton, comments, “We are committed to developing solutions that not only make our customers’ lives easier but also safer. "This project was done in conjunction with a blue-chip OEM to reduce the weekly incidence rate of cable harness damage that was causing production delays and mounting downtime costs. Since the roll out of the EVO CUT, the incidence rate has fallen to zero. “By removing knives and snips from the production line, it not only allows for a controlled process to minimise risk and damage, but also greatly improves operator safety by removing exposed blades from the factory environment.” The EVO CUT is intended to remove the risk of insulation damage that can occur when using traditional cutting tools. Once severed, the cable tie is retained within the tool until the trigger is released, preventing debris and helping to keep working areas clear. The tool is designed for use with HellermannTyton’s T-Series cable ties, with interchangeable nose pieces that fit around the strap or head for precision cutting. It can also cut KR-Series ties, which are used in areas where vibration resistance is essential. The cutting blades are enclosed within the tool’s nose pieces, avoiding any exposed sharp edges. For more from HellermannTyton, click here.

Aico supports national campaign addressing damp and mould

Aico, a manufacturer of residential fire and carbon monoxide detection products, supported Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week from 20-26 October, an industry initiative intended to encourage collaboration across the housing sector to address damp and mould in homes. Government figures published in 2024 show more than seven million UK households are affected by damp and mould. The issue is estimated to cost the NHS about £1.4 billion a year, contributing to wider societal costs of around £15.4 billion. Industry collaboration to improve housing standards As part of the awareness week, Aico provided free resources and guidance for housing providers, landlords, and contractors. More than 200 people registered to take part, with support from organisations including AllergyUK, the Chartered Institute of Housing, and Trowers & Hamlins. The event included three webinars: The first, hosted by Professor John Edwards, Director of Edwards Hart, examined causes of damp, mould, and condensation, as well as offering practical recommendations for surveyors, contractors, and housing providers. “We have got to understand the causes of problems and deal with the causes,” noted Edwards. “We need to be proactive and undertake preventative actions.” A second session, led by legal specialists from Ashfords, reviewed the current legal framework, recent case law, and compliance requirements for landlords and housing providers. The session included an overview of Awaab’s Law and its implications for statutory timelines to investigate and remedy health hazards. The third webinar featured Dave Batsford, Regional Surveying Manager at whg, who outlined measures taken by a social landlord to improve housing conditions and described how tenant welfare, legal responsibilities, and financial constraints are balanced when addressing damp and mould. Tony Boyle, Regional Director at Aico, comments, “The response to the first Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week was fantastic, with huge engagement from housing associations, tenants, and policymakers. “But that was just the beginning. This year, we’re aiming to reach even more people, spark more action, and continue making progress towards healthier homes for all. “With the introduction of Awaab’s Law, there will now be a legal mandate to tackle damp and mould with urgency. "We want to ensure landlords, tenants, and housing professionals have the resources they need to understand their responsibilities and take meaningful action.” The awareness week forms part of Aico’s broader activity to support home life safety and assist housing organisations in improving living conditions across the UK. For more from Aico, click here.

CU Phosco completes lighting improvements on Metz Way

UK exterior lighting manufacturer CU Phosco, working with M Group Highways on behalf of Gloucestershire County Council, has successfully completed a lighting replacement scheme on Metz Way, Gloucester. The project involved the removal and replacement of high mast structures and the installation of LED street lighting to improve safety, reduce maintenance demands, and support local connectivity on one of the city’s busiest distributor roads. Metz Way is a major part of Gloucester’s transport infrastructure, linking residential areas like Abbeymead and Abbeydale to the city centre and playing a central role in the local economy. The route includes key junctions, such as Eastern Avenue, and provides access to major developments and commuter corridors, including bridges over railway lines. The lighting replacement project As part of ongoing routine maintenance, five high masts were identified as nearing the end of their operational life and requiring replacement. Gloucestershire County Council carried out a desktop study to determine the best way forward, concluding that a combination of new high mast lighting and LED street lanterns would provide optimal coverage, particularly in areas where traditional columns were unsuitable due to Network Rail access constraints. M Group Highways, the council’s maintenance contractor, successfully tendered for the works with a specification that included CU Phosco products. Having worked closely with M Group Highways for several years on mast maintenance across the county, CU Phosco says it was well placed to support this project through design, manufacture, and installation. The project scope included: • Design, manufacture, and installation of 4 x 20m high masts, each equipped with 6 P855 luminaires and 2 FL800D-2 floodlights • Supply-only of 16 P862 LED lanterns for street lighting columns • Removal and disposal of five existing high masts • Bespoke foundation stud covers designed and installed to protect foundations of decommissioned masts for potential future use • Pull-off testing of existing studs How the project progressed With sections of Metz Way elevated above Network Rail infrastructure, careful planning was required to manage access and ensure safe working conditions. CU Phosco had to work to tight deadlines to minimise disruption to local traffic and reduce the impact on ongoing development and transport routes in the area. According to the company, the lighting infrastructure upgrade has delivered a compliant and modern lighting solution that improves visibility and safety for all road users. It says the use of energy-efficient LED lanterns and future-ready high mast infrastructure reduces ongoing maintenance requirements and supports Gloucestershire County Council’s long-term strategy for resilient, sustainable public lighting. Additionally, the retention and protection of foundations for potential future reuse reflects a practical and resource-conscious approach to asset management. Jack Benham, Project Manager at M Group Highways, comments, “Metz Way is a key artery into Gloucester, and this scheme needed to be delivered quickly and with minimal disruption. "Working with CU Phosco, we were able to provide Gloucestershire County Council with a robust, energy-efficient lighting solution. "Their high mast expertise and ability to deliver on challenging access requirements were instrumental to the success of this project.” For more from CU Phosco, click here.

Ovia adds Inceptor Hi-Bloc to its Industrial Highbay range

An innovative addition to Ovia's industrial Highbay range, the Inceptor Hi-Bloc is designed with both performance and versatility in mind. The Hi-Bloc is a CCT and power switchable linear Highbay, aimed to deliver high-performance illumination across environments that demand both precision and intensity, such as warehouses, factories, gymnasiums, and other large-scale, high-ceilinged industrial or commercial spaces. The launch of the Hi-Bloc marks a strategic expansion of Ovia’s Highbay offering, with a deliberate shift towards an aesthetically unique yet highly practical product. The distinctive diffuser design not only elevates the visual profile of the fitting, but also supports superior glare control with a UGR rating of ≤22. This reduction in glare significantly enhances the working environment in high-demand industrial settings, promoting comfort, focus, and safety. What also sets the Hi-Bloc apart is its distinct linear design, engineered specifically to improve lighting efficiency in tight aisles and long rectangular spaces. The Hi-Bloc's rectangular form and narrow 72° beam angle focus light directly where it is needed most, ensuring optimal visibility in every corner of the space. Designed for installation From installation to operation, the Hi-Bloc is engineered for versatility and ease of use. The CCT and power switch is intuitively positioned behind an IP65 threaded cap for easy access. Each unit includes two mounting hooks as standard, allowing for chain mounting (chains not included, but compatible with existing setups), and features an integrated spirit level to ensure perfect alignment during installation. For added flexibility, a mounting bracket accessory is available, catering to a wide range of installation requirements. For further enhanced lighting control, the programmable remote allows full customisation of lighting, with the ability to adjust PIR detection range and sensitivity, daylight thresholds, standby periods, and hold times, allowing for easy fine-tune performance for maximum efficiency, comfort, and flexibility across different environments. In addition, the Hi-Bloc integrates seamlessly with Ovia’s 5W 3 Hour Maintained IP65 Emergency Pack, just like all other Ovia LED Highbays, ensuring consistent emergency lighting performance across the range. To find out more about Ovia’s industrial Highbay range, visit the company's website - where a brochure will be available - or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Ovia, click here.

Smart heating solutions that redefine efficiency and design

In today’s electrical industry, clients are increasingly looking for heating systems that combine efficiency, reliability, and design appeal. For contractors and specifiers, that means identifying solutions that are easy to install, integrate seamlessly with smart controls, and deliver measurable energy savings. This is where Rointe’s premium electric heating collection comes in, featuring the EONIQ WiFi radiator, the NEO WiFi towel rail, and the PALAOS WiFi vertical radiator. Each product has been developed with a focus on high-end performance, connectivity, and architectural design, helping professionals offer their customers a heating solution that’s as intelligent as it is elegant. Engineered for professionals All three models have been redesigned with installation and usability in mind. A minimalist three-button touch interface replaces the traditional display, simplifying manual operation and reducing maintenance issues. Through WiFi Direct connectivity, the units pair effortlessly with the Rointe NEXA app, providing end users - and building managers - with full remote control, scheduling, consumption tracking, and power limitation tools without the need for additional gateways or hubs. For installers, this means fewer components, faster setup, and no compatibility headaches. For clients, it translates to real-time visibility and long-term efficiency. Inverter Smart Adaptive efficiency At the core of the EONIQ radiator lies Inverter Smart Adaptive technology, an advanced control system that constantly adjusts the heating output according to room demand. Unlike standard electric radiators that work at full power until the target temperature is reached, this inverter-based system modulates energy use dynamically, achieving temperatures 35% more stable, heating 25% faster, and delivering up to 10% higher energy efficiency compared with conventional systems. The result is lower energy consumption, reduced electrical load, and extended component life, all while maintaining consistent thermal comfort. Premium materials and finishes Beyond technology, Rointe places strong emphasis on durability and aesthetics. The EONIQ is constructed entirely from 100% aluminium for superior heat dissipation and corrosion resistance, with no plastic closures. The NEO towel rail incorporates thermal fluid technology for uniform heat distribution and offers a Boost mode for rapid drying. For compact spaces, the PALAOS vertical radiator provides the same WiFi functionality in a space-saving format, ideal for modern apartments or refurbishment projects where wall space is limited. Each product is available in a range of textured finishes and premium colours, allowing contractors and designers to specify heating that enhances interiors rather than detracting from them. Designed for the connected home and future regulations With the growing emphasis on smart control and energy efficiency in Building Regulations and Part L compliance, Rointe’s connected heating solutions give professionals a forward-looking alternative that supports sustainable building practices and end-user comfort. For electrical contractors seeking a smart, fully connected, design-led heating system that adds value to every installation, Rointe’s premium range delivers performance that stands out - both technically and visually. Discover the full collection at the company's website. For more from Rointe, click here.

National Ventilation commended at Electrical Wholesaler Awards

National Ventilation, a leading UK-based ventilation manufacturer and supplier, says it is proud to have been highly commended in the ‘Best Customer Service’ category at the Electrical Wholesaler Awards 2025. The awards, held on Thursday, 25 September 2025 at London’s Chelsea Harbour Hotel and hosted by comedian Jimmy McGhie, celebrate excellence across the electrical wholesaler sector. This marks the second year that National Ventilation has been recognised for outstanding customer service, having won the category outright in 2024. The Electrical Wholesaler Awards Providing a unique platform for the recognition of excellence and achievement across the electrical wholesale sector, the Electrical Wholesaler Awards boasts an array of expertly curated categories, with accolades that honour everything from innovative brands and outstanding wholesalers to the exceptional professionals at the heart of every successful business in the sector. The voting and judging each hold a 50% weighting in the final decision, ensuring the winners are selected for their outstanding industry reputations and technical expertise. Robin Francis, Managing Director at National Ventilation, says, “We are thrilled to be highly commended at this year’s Electrical Wholesaler Awards, and especially proud to be recognised for our customer service two years running. "At National Ventilation, we always strive to go the extra mile for our customers. Winning last year’s award motivated us to raise the bar even higher and since then, we’ve seen growing demand for both our ventilation and design services. "We remain committed to continuous improvement and to delivering the very best support for our customers." The company's offerings During the last year, the company has seen a significant rise in demand for ventilation products. At the same time, there has been a surge in National Ventilation’s in-house team’s free ventilation design service for wholesalers to offer to their contractor customers. This has resulted in a 22% increase in designs in the last financial year, with an increase of 18% of new customers using the service. This service is incredibly valuable for wholesalers as they can quickly and easily assist contractors needing help with ventilation system design - especially helpful for wholesalers looking to grow their share of the new build ventilation market. With the ability to turn around designs in 48 hours, often quicker, National Ventilation enables wholesalers to supply contractors with a full design and quotation, including unit calculations, a full kit list, as well as recommended duct routes, making the process simple for wholesalers and their customers alike. 100% there for its wholesaler customers, National Ventilation doesn’t sell through any other channel and acts as an expert ventilation department on call whenever needed. In an ultra-competitive-market it is not all about price. National Ventilation’s USP is to be Electrical Wholesalers’ VSP (Ventilation Solutions Provider). To support its customers, National Ventilation has a knowledgeable customer service team, offers a next-day delivery service, provides a free ventilation design service, and all of its product information is easily accessible on its newly improved website. National Ventilation is trusted by its customers to provide high-quality products with excellent customer service and to always go the extra mile. National Ventilation has everything wholesalers need to act as their ventilation department: • An extensive product range with a knowledgeable support team • Free ventilation design service with a full report on parts needed • Technical support with a two-ring phone policy • Next-day delivery. This is a big help for wholesalers who have thousands of products to manage apart from ventilation; National Ventilation takes the stress away and grows their businesses for them. National Ventilation has an extensive product range with over 2,000 lines, so it has the fan or accessory for nearly every job. If something ventilation-related is needed, National Ventilation probably has it. Boasting a two-ring policy, all calls to National Ventilation are answered as soon as possible. The whole team is involved to ensure customers are promptly responded to and all staff are trained to a high level to provide a professional, knowledgeable response. National Ventilation always does its utmost to give the customer a prompt and accurate answer, but most calls can usually be answered by the first person customers speak to, no waiting on hold in long queues to speak to another department. National Ventilation combines traditional customer service values, where the customer can always talk to a person rather than a machine, with forward-thinking services, such as its digital transformation and a first-class design service. Excellent customer service is an essential part of National Ventilation’s offering to its customers, with its knowledgeable staff always ready to provide information, advice, and solutions to customers. For further information on all products and services offered by National Ventilation, telephone 01823 690 290 or visit the company's website. For more from National Ventilation, click here.

Carhartt introduces TENCEL to women’s workwear range

American workwear company Carhartt has expanded its women’s workwear range with garments made using TENCEL Lyocell fibres, designed to combine comfort, durability, and breathability for a variety of working environments. The range is made from fibres derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp. The fibres are naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and durable, helping to regulate body temperature while maintaining strength. Lightweight fabrics designed for flexibility The TENCEL Fibre Series includes a selection of everyday clothing such as shirts, joggers, and lightweight T-shirts, intended to offer flexibility and ease of movement throughout the working day. One of the key garments in the collection is a long-sleeved flannel shirt, combining cotton with TENCEL Lyocell for improved softness and comfort. The series also features a midweight crewneck sweatshirt that uses a cotton and TENCEL Lyocell blend for warmth and durability. Other designs include relaxed-fit joggers with stretch fabric and reinforced pockets and a short-sleeved T-shirt made from a cotton and TENCEL Lyocell mix for breathable comfort. Carhartt says the expansion of the TENCEL Fibre Series is part of its ongoing effort to create hard-wearing workwear that reflects the needs of tradeswomen. The use of lighter fabrics, developed with input from wearers, aims to provide strength and mobility without excess weight. For more from Carhartt, click here.