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ECIC launches renewables training
THE ELECTRICAL Contractors’ Insurance Company Ltd (ECIC) has started a Renewable Energy Training programme for key partner brokers, run by the ECA training team. The training aims to give attendees the knowledge to talk confidently with clients about installations work and the associated liabilities of particular renewable technologies. Richard Forrest-Smith, chief underwriting officer and deputy managing director at ECIC, said: ‘With consumer attitudes becoming “greener”
and financial incentives for renewable energies, such as solar panel installation, it is no wonder customers and contractors are looking at the new opportunities available in the renewable energy sector.’
The ECIC has specific insurance designed for green energy installers, and the CPD-accredited course has been developed with the ECA. The courses are being rolled out at ECA regional training centres across the country and will include an overview on technologies such as solar photovoltaics,
solar water heating, biomass and air, water and ground source heat pumps. Forrest-Smith added: ‘New technology is critical to green energy development. Solar panel installation is regularly mentioned and many are familiar with it. With electrical contractors now having to access roofs, they need to have a real understanding of all the risks involved in carrying out this sort of work.’ For more information about the ECIC, visit
www.ecic.co.uk
MINIMUMTERM APPRENTICESHIPS WELCOMED
THE ECA HAS WELCOMED THE ANNOUNCEMENT from skills minister John Hayes that from August 2012, apprenticeships will need to last for a minimum of one year to qualify for government funding. Iain Macdonald, ECA head of Education and Training,
said: ‘We have long argued that it was ridiculous that 20 per cent of so-called apprenticeships could be completed in less than six months. Yet, until now, these were considered as worthy of funding equivalent to a four-year advanced apprenticeship, which is acknowledged by our industry as being the standard for entry.’ He continued: ‘We strongly believe that funding should only be used for courses that really do prepare an individual for a career. Ensuring apprenticeships last for a year is a good first step, but the government must go further and ensure that only apprenticeships with industry- recognised outcomes receive funding. Only these provide a real route to employment, guaranteeing the government’s investment will pay dividends in years to come.’
Select Committee report welcomed
THE ECA AND NICEIC HAVE jointly welcomed the Communities and Local Government (CLG) Select Committee report into Building Regulations. After hearing evidence from the electrical contracting industry, local authorities and other key stakeholders, the committee says it cannot support deregulation of the building regulations if electrical
safety is compromised. In the recent report, the cross-
party Select Committee said it had clear evidence to show that deaths and injuries due to electrical faults have decreased since the introduction of the regulations. ‘For a long time now NICEIC has been voicing its concerns that electrical safety must not be compromised by any amendments,’
commented NICEIC chief executive officer Emma Clancy. ‘Carrying out any electrical work around the home can be potentially fatal. It should not be taken lightly and should always be undertaken by a competent person who is registered with an accredited body.’ Steve Bratt, ECA group chief executive officer, added: ‘There is no room for compromise on
safety, and the ECA is pleased that the Committee shares our view that the introduction of Part P has raised safety standards. The government must ensure that any reduction in regulation will not put people at risk. This report is a welcome first step and we look forward to playing a full and constructive role during the government consultation.’
May 2012 ECA Today 7
SHUTTERSTOCK / ATOMINUMEROUNO
SHUTTERSTOCK / AUREMAR
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