[ Spotlight: Heating and ventilation ]


of ventilation design and supply company Supply Air, particularly as better technology is introduced: ‘It is important both that electrical contractors are aware of the move into electrically commutated fans, and that they work with manufacturers and mechanical services contractors to ensure they are installed properly. ‘There are also other opportunities because of


Dimplex solar thermal system


installation of modern heating controls. What’s more, with the advent of multi-zone heating controls and the growth of integrated lighting and heating systems, the need for electricians to be able to work across an entire house has never been so important. Learning how to fit heating controls is easy, manufacturers like Honeywell provide comprehensive courses and electricians can easily obtain wiring guides.’


Energy efficiency The latest policy and guidance underlines that an effective ventilation and heat recovery strategy is vital when designing an energy efficient building. Electrical contractors can benefit here, too, according to Steve Batchelor, managing director


Taking the right course


Certsure, the partnership created by the ECA and Electrical Safety Council, runs training courses for electrical contractors through its NICEIC and ELECSA brands. As well as traditional learning and development opportunities for individuals in the electrical sector, NICEIC and ELECSA training offer opportunities in the renewable, gas, heating and Green Deal sectors.


Certsure’s head of training and


consultancy, Alan Charlton, says: ‘We have seen a growing number of electrical, gas and heating and plumbing contractors join the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) and enrol on its related training courses.’ He adds: ‘Our renewables


courses, which last between two and four days, enable


delegates to understand the design, installation and commissioning of the technologies. The courses are focused on providing practical, hands-on training that gives delegates the opportunity to interact with realistic working scenarios and there are assessments at the end of each course.’ As well as technology-focused


training, courses are also offered in quality management systems and health and safety training, which helps companies meet MCS requirements. On top of this, Certsure runs training


courses on the Green Deal Installer Standard – PAS 2030: Improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings – Specification for installation procedures, process management and service provision. It offers a Level 3 certificate in


Domestic Energy Assessment (QCF), which enables candidates to carry out energy assessments and complete Energy Performance Certificates. nFor more information see: www.certsure.com


The Building Industry Controls Association also offers several courses useful to electrical contractors including: nIntroduction To Building Controls & HVAC


nFundamentals of HVAC & Building Technology


nMeasuring & Control Technology nHydraulics in Building Services nControl Function of Heating Plants nControl of Ventilation and Air Conditioning


nFor more information see: www.bcia.co.uk/training


There is no reason why the electrical contractor shouldn’t take the lead


the energy crisis we have experienced in recent years. This has encouraged low voltage systems that lend themselves to sophisticated controls; even routine toilet extract fans are now operated by PIR detectors or humidity/temperature sensors. It always surprises me that electrical contractors haven’t picked up on this and benefited from it.’ Kevin Munson, managing director of Ruskin Air Management, believes there is a big opportunity for well-trained electrical contractors in improving fire safety in building ventilation systems: ‘Many building owners are looking at the benefits of installing motorised fire dampers in their ventilation systems to minimise the spread of fire and smoke.’ Most fire dampers in the UK have to be manually tested, which requires an operative to gain physical access to the ventilation ductwork. This means they are often not checked and so are not guaranteed to operate in the event of a fire. ‘Motorised dampers, on the other hand, are


electronically linked to the fire alarm system, which means they can be regularly and easily tested,’ says Mr Munson. ‘Electrically operated dampers can, therefore, improve safety and help building owners meet their regulatory responsibilities.’


September 2013 ECA Today 43


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