Embrace a Bright Future in Electrical, Heat Pump and Renewable Energy Training Courses and Qualifications with Activate Trade Training
Starting a new career can be a daunting prospect, but it also holds the promise of a brighter future, especially in the thriving fields of electrical installation, renewables, and heat pumps. Activate Trade Training is your gateway to success, offering comprehensive training courses at our state-of-the-art centres in Central London close to the City and in Hemel Hempstead, conveniently located just off the M25. For new entrants, our courses provide a solid foundation, equipping you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in these dynamic industries. Our experienced instructors are committed to delivering top-notch education, ensuring you are job-ready upon completion. The growing demand for renewable energy solutions means your skills will be highly sought after, paving the way for a rewarding and sustainable career. Furthermore, all our qualifications are accredited by City & Guilds, ensuring you receive recognised and respected certifications. Experienced trades personnel will find our advanced courses invaluable for staying ahead in the rapidly evolving market. Whether you’re looking to specialise in the latest technologies such as Solar PV, Battery Storage, Electric Vehicles and Heat Pumps, or broaden your expertise, our training programs offer the perfect opportunity to enhance your skills and increase your marketability. Our range of courses includes Electrical Diplomas from Level 2 to 3 and NVQs, providing a structured and recognised pathway to advancing your career. Career changers, take note: the renewable energy sector is booming, and there has never been a better time to make the switch. Our comprehensive training not only provides the practical skills needed but also includes insights into industry trends and future opportunities, ensuring you are well-prepared for a successful transition into Solar PV, Battery Storage, Electric Vehicle Charge Point and Heat Pump Installation. At Activate Trade Training Limited, we understand that financial concerns can be a barrier to pursuing further education. That’s why we offer funding and finance options through government grants specifically aimed at individuals keen on entering the renewable energy sector. These grants can significantly offset training costs, making it more accessible for everyone to embark on this exciting career path. Have a look at what people who have trained with us say about their experiences: “I have recently completed the Solar PV & Battery Energy Storage package with Activate Trade Training, the delivery was professional and engaging. Paul, our trainer, has clearly worked in the industry and is very experienced as a tutor. It’s nice when you know the person guiding you through the course material has in fact turned a screwdriver or two themselves in relation to the subject matter. More often than not with these types of courses, we, the trainee are just talked at, whilst the lecturer clicks through PowerPoint slides. That is definitely not the case with Activate Trade Training. We had professional group discussions on key topics / points of interest led by the trainer for relevance which kept the course interesting and informative. My notes made during class and completed assignments resulted in a ‘Pass’. Thanks Paul, keep up the good work, I will be using Activate Trade Training again for sure.” Jamie Holmes IEng MIET (Member of the BSI GEL/82 IEC TC 82 – Photovoltaic Energy Systems, Participant on the technical committee for the IET code of practice Grid-connected Solar Photovoltaic Systems 2nd Edition) “I have done several courses with Activate Trade Training and have always had a great experience. The teachers are friendly and always really helpful and I always come out of their centre feeling as though I learned something valuable.” Florin Cion “Activate Trade Training is an excellent place to learn your electrical skills. I went there as a beginner and have built up my qualifications over the past year and am now working full time in the industry. Their facility is warm and friendly and the tutors are very skilled at helping you learn the subject matter. I would highly recommend this company to learn your trade.” Chana Singhe “I recently completed the Level 2 and 3 Electrical Diploma Courses with Activate Trade Training, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with my experience. The tutors were exceptional, providing clear, comprehensive instruction and practical insights. They were always available to answer questions and offer guidance. Additionally, the career support was outstanding. They helped me build a professional CV and connected me with potential employers. Thanks to their support, I successfully secured a job shortly after completing my courses. I highly recommend Activate Trade Training to anyone looking to advance their career in the electrical field.” Alex Georgiou Join us at Activate Trade Training Limited and take the first step towards a fulfilling and prosperous future in the Electrical, Heating and Renewable Energy Industry. Whether you’re starting fresh, building on existing skills, or switching careers, our accredited training programs, including Basic Electrics, Electric and Heating Renewables, through to Diplomas and NVQs, provide the perfect platform for your professional, growth and success and with our network of over four thousand employers in the UK we can even provide you with work experience that may lead to full-time employment once you’ve got your qualifications with us. Activate Trade Training Ltd email: paul@activate-training.co.uk • Tel: 020 8533 3794 • www.activate-training.co.uk City & Guilds – EAL – LCL Approved Centre Edexcel/NCFE Certified Assessor/IQA M25 Training Centre: Imex House, 575-599 Maxted Road, Hemel Hempstead HP2 7DX London Central: The Green House, 244-254 Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green, London E2 9DA
NICEIC celebrating talented females within the electrical industry on International Women in Engineering Day
The leading certification body for the electrical industry NICEIC, is celebrating talented females in the electrical sector on International Women in Engineering Day (23rd June) Led by the Women’s Engineering Society, the awareness day, shines a light on the successes of female engineers worldwide, intending to empower others to an engineering career. With only 16.5% of engineers in the UK being female*, there is a need to encourage more women to consider careers within STEM (Science, technology, Engineering and Mathematics) sectors. Sharing female role model success stories within the engineering industry is therefore, one of the most powerful ways to promote the benefits and opportunities available to those within the sector. One such story is that of NICEIC Area Engineer, Lisa Burge. Lisa, who was named Student of the Year whilst studying for her electrical qualification, was on the lookout for a career that would challenge her and allow her to invest in her skillset. She says: “My friend told me that he was training to become an electrician. After some self-doubt, I was encouraged to go for it. It ended up being the best advice I ever followed.” Following a successful career as an electrician, Lisa joined NICEIC in the role of Area Engineer. This role involves her assessing the competence of electrical contractors and gives her the opportunity to drive industry standards, something she is passionate about. A career in the electrotechnical industry can provide a wealth of benefits including progression opportunities, particularly in renewable and sustainable technologies, as well as excellent salaries. Lisa encourages women to consider pursuing a career in the industry that she has thrived in, saying, “I’m so pleased that I decided to pursue a career as an electrician. I have learned so much and enjoy the variety of work immensely. I would really encourage anyone thinking of entering the industry to do so. There are so many opportunities and possibilities within the sector, there’s never been a better time to join!” NICEIC Head of Standards, Dani Putney, adds: “Success stories like Lisa’s need to be shared with all aspiring female engineers as we try to break down the barriers to women entering the electrical industry. We recognise that there is still more to be done but International Women in Engineering Day offers a key opportunity to highlight the success of women in the industry, as well as presenting the benefits available to those who decide on pursuing a career in the sector.” For more information, visit: * inwed.org.uk/about/
Electrical contractor rebrands as LIME and welcomes new joint managing director
Lime Electrical contractor based in Midlothian has re-branded as Lime and appointed a new joint managing director, David Houston, who together with a strong team of six M&E professionals, will launch the new mechanical division and develop it as an all-encompassing M&E contractor. The business comprising 50 people, founded in 2015, operates across the UK has delivered successful projects for leading brands such as Bacardi, Virgin Money and The Warner Brothers Studio, performing electrical installation work, such as fire detection, emergency lighting and data systems. Derek Fyfe, the joint managing director said: “David joins us with extensive experience in mechanical building services for design and build projects providing air conditioning, ventilation, plumbing and heating services for clients in a broad range of sectors. “We believe his experience and insight, together with the team of M&E specialists we have attracted to the business, will provide a significant boost to the number and range of contracts for which we will now be qualified to tender, so we are looking forward to a period of sustained growth over the next year.” David Houston said: “I am hugely excited to join Lime and, as with our re-branding, hope to bring a breath of fresh air to an accomplished business by helping, alongside our new M&E colleagues, to launch Lime’s mechanical division and thereby expand its range of potential work thought Scotland and the rest of the UK.” Lime is a member of The National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC) and Construction Online and as such regulated and monitored to ensure the quality, safety and reliability of its work. The business is also accredited to ISO9001, ISO14001 and ISO18001 standards for management, health and safety and environmental care.
Growth fund to power up business, secured by cable management specialists
A specialist distributor of cable management systems, based in Birmingham, is getting ready to grow its workforce following the acquisition of a £200,000 funding package. DP Building Systems, based in Perry Barr, Birmingham has secured funding from business investment specialists UKSE of £200,000 for new technology investment which will also create new jobs. DP Building Systems, established in 1998, is a family-owned business, that distributes specialist cable and power management systems to the building, mechanical, construction, engineering, IT and data industries. After securing the funding, this will enable the business to digitise its internal system with the implementation of a CRM system plus create 10 additional new roles, including technical sales, distribution, warehousing and apprenticeships. UKSE provides finance of up to £1m to support local businesses in the West Midlands area. UKSE’s equity finance package leaves the management team in control, patient capital from a supportive partner. Rather than obtain funding from mainstream lenders, DP Building Systems was introduced to UKSE by Birmingham based Central Business Finance. Central Business Finance are commercial finance brokers based in St Pauls Square, Birmingham – helping SME’s of all sizes with a full range of commercial finance products and grant funding. DP Building Systems Managing Director Rob White said: “After securing the funding from UKSE, we will be able to invest in our IT systems to support the growth of the business. “We have won some prestigious contracts recently and the funding will support the recruitment of additional 10 job roles, including the investment in apprenticeships.” UKSE Regional Executive Mike Lowe commented: “Rob and the team at DP Building Systems have been a pleasure to work with. They have some exciting new contracts on the horizon and we are thrilled that the UKSE funding will facilitate the growth of the business.” UKSE Area Manager Steve Grice added: “At UKSE our aim is to support businesses to grow, innovate and create job opportunities. Over the last 12 months we have helped fund new equipment, technology and infrastructure which has led to the retention and creation of jobs in the region.” Central Business Finance Director Steve Harris added: “I’m delighted to have been able to help DP Building Systems source suitable finance. This is exactly where we can add value to a business, and it’s been a pleasure to work with Rob and Gary to secure the loan.” Established in 1975, UKSE is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Steel UK Limited with a mission to enable and encourage businesses and the people behind them to create jobs, grow and prosper, within communities affected by current or historic changes in the steel industry and its jobs. UKSE can also provide up to £200k in loan finance, without the need for company or personal security. To date, UKSE has invested over £115m, supporting 8,000 businesses, stimulating the creation of an estimated 83,000 new jobs.
SELECT President Mike Stark warns of increasing demands for electricity as power-hungry AI Systems take central role
Scotland’s largest construction trade association, SELECT’s new President, warns of how the demands for the electrical network to power artificial intelligence (AI) could become unsustainable as it is becoming an increasing part of society. Mike Stark, who took over the campaigning electrical body as President on June 6th, has said that the National Grid for the UK could struggle to meet the voracious energy requirements of AI and the systems it supports. The 62-year-old, who is Director of Data Cabling and Networks at OCS M&E Services a facilities management firm, is just one of a growing number of experts warning that the new technology’s large appetite for electricity, which can be greater than many small countries use in a year. And he questioned whether the UK’s current electrical infrastructure was fit for purpose in the face of the massive increase in predicted demand, not only from the power-hungry data centres supporting AI but also from the continued rise in electric vehicle (EV) charging units. Mike said: “AI is becoming more embedded in our everyday lives, from digital assistants and chatbots helping us on websites to navigation apps and autocorrect on our mobile phones. And it is going to become even more prevalent in the near future. “Data centres, which have many servers as their main components, need electrical power to survive. It is therefore only natural that any talk about building a data centre should begin with figuring out the electrical needs and how to satisfy those power requirements. “At present, the UK’s National Grid appears to be holding its own, with current increases being met with renewable energy systems. But as technology advances and systems such as AI are introduced, there will be a time when the grid will struggle to support the demand.” Mike said that it is estimated that there could be 1.5 million AI servers by 2027. Running at full capacity, these would consume between 85 and 134 terawatt hours per year – roughly equivalent to the current energy demands of countries like the Netherlands and Sweden. He added: “I remember attending an EV training session about 25 years ago and the standing joke was, ‘Where’s all this electricity going to come from?’ We all felt the network needed upgrading then, and now there is extra pressure from the new AI data centres springing up.” Mike has spent 44 years in the electrical industry, 40 of those continued service at the same company, starting at Arthur McKay as a qualified electrician in June 1984 to his current role at what is now OCS. He was confirmed as new SELECT President at the association’s AGM at the Doubletree Edinburgh North Queensferry on Thursday June 6, taking over from Alistair Grant, who recently warned about the dangers of rogue tradespeople installing renewable technology. Darren Crockett of Dundee-based Robert AS Crockett and Partners Ltd becomes the new SELECT Vice President, with David Harris of Glasgow’s DMH Electrical Services being appointed Depute Vice President. During his two years in the Presidential hotseat, Mike said he is looking forward to meeting SELECT members to learn about issues in the electrical industry and to maintaining the association’s ongoing campaign to have the role of an electrician recognised as a profession. He added: “Doormen who manage the front of house in clubs have to be regulated by the Security Industry Authority before they can work, but anyone can call themselves an electrician without any training or a full electrical apprenticeship. “That’s why we must continue with the great job that SELECT has done to raise awareness about the importance of regulation of the electrical industry and to have ‘electrician’ recognised as a profession.” Mike also stressed the importance of ensuring there is a continued pipeline of electrical apprentices to meet the future demands of a society that will depend so heavily on electricity. He said: “We have to have people who are qualified, skilled and knowledgeable to be able to introduce and oversee this new technology, which is why we need more properly trained and suitably qualified electrical apprentices, acting as the vanguard of our industry.” SELECT has been campaigning for regulation for years alongside the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) and Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) and has created a Wall of Support to show the depth of backing from individuals and organisations. Individuals who wish to show support can visit the campaign page at www.select.org.uk/.
How to cash in on the green skills revolution?
As the world shifts towards sustainable technologies, businesses in the electrical and construction sectors are presented with a lucrative opportunity to capitalise on the growing demand for green skills. South Bank Colleges’ new course offerings aim to equip professionals with the expertise needed to thrive in this dynamic field. South Bank Colleges’ new courses are tailored to address the pressing needs of professionals seeking to expand their skillsets and stay ahead of the curve. The Level 3 Electric Vehicle Charging Point Installers course is a prime example, catering to electricians looking to specialise in the installation of electric vehicle charging units, a rapidly growing market driven by the surge in electric vehicle adoption. Similarly, the Level 2 Award in Retrofit (City & Guilds) and the Level 3 Award in Air Source Heat Pump Systems (Non-refrigerant Circuits) equip construction professionals and heating specialists, respectively, with the knowledge and skills required to implement energy-efficient retrofitting practices and advanced heat pump systems, both of which are in high demand as the industry strives for sustainability. South Bank Colleges is delighted to introduce four groundbreaking courses in green skills, tailored for those in the electrical and construction sectors. Each course is designed to equip you with the necessary expertise to thrive in the growing field of sustainable technologies. Whether you’re an established electrician or an industry professional looking to expand your skills into new, eco-friendly areas, these courses offer a path to enhance your career while contributing to a sustainable future. Level 3 Electric Vehicle Charging Point Installers This course is perfect for practicing electricians who are keen to specialise in the installation of electric vehicle charging units. You’ll gain comprehensive knowledge about the types of charging equipment, how to design installations, and maintain them. The course covers crucial safety protocols and smart functions in Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE), along with integration into prosumer’s electrical installations. With the rising demand for electric vehicles, this qualification opens up numerous opportunities in the EV charging sector, enhancing your employability and expertise in a niche and lucrative area. Level 2 Award in Retrofit (City & Guilds) As sustainability becomes a core focus in construction, retrofitting has become essential. This course introduces you to retrofitting practices that improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. Conducted over three days, this part-time qualification is ideal for new entrants and established tradespeople who wish to upskill. You’ll learn about PAS 2035 standards and their implications on property upgrades and retrofit projects. Completing this course not only broadens your skills but also prepares you for further qualifications and roles in sustainable construction. Level 3 Award in Air Source Heat Pump Systems (Non-refrigerant Circuits) This evening course is designed for those with a background in heating systems, updating your skills for the installation and maintenance of heat pump systems. You’ll learn to consult with clients, evaluate needs, and select appropriate Air Source Heat Pump Systems. The course covers everything from the principles of vapour compression systems to the installation and routine maintenance of these systems. With heat pumps playing a significant role in modern eco-friendly heating solutions, this qualification will set you apart in the industry. Level 3 Award in Solar Photovoltaic (PV) This intensive course is for electricians aiming to become certified solar PV installers. As energy costs rise and eco-awareness increases, solar PV skills are more valuable than ever. You’ll learn about the design, installation, and maintenance of solar systems, gaining practical experience with solar components. Upon completion, you’ll earn a qualification that enables you to register with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), greatly enhancing your marketability and job prospects in renewable energy installations. Why Choose South Bank Colleges? At South Bank Colleges, we are committed to providing top-tier education and training that aligns with industry standards and future market needs. Our courses are taught by industry experts in state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring you receive the best possible learning experience. Whether you are looking to specialise, upgrade your skills, or shift to a green career path, our courses provide the knowledge and qualifications you need to succeed. Enrolling in our green skills courses not only boosts your professional credentials but also places you at the forefront of the sustainable building and energy sectors. With our comprehensive training and nationally recognised qualifications, you can confidently meet the demands of an evolving industry focused on sustainability. We invite you to join us at South Bank Colleges to future-proof your skills and advance your career in these dynamic, high-demand sectors. Explore our courses today at www.southbankcolleges.ac.uk/courses/construction and take the next step towards a rewarding and sustainable career. Conclusion As the world continues its transition towards a more sustainable future, the demand for professionals equipped with green skills will only continue to grow. South Bank Colleges’ new course offerings provide a unique opportunity for electricians, construction workers, and industry professionals to position themselves at the forefront of this revolution. Whether you’re an electrician seeking to specialise in electric vehicle charging point installation, a construction professional aiming to master energy-efficient retrofitting practices, or a heating specialist looking to expand your expertise in air source heat pump systems, South Bank Colleges has a course tailored to your needs. By investing in these green skills programs, you not only enhance your career prospects but also contribute to a more sustainable future for all. With hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications, these courses equip you with the knowledge and practical experience to excel in the rapidly evolving sustainable technology landscape. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to cash in on the green skills revolution. Explore South Bank Colleges’ comprehensive range of courses at www.southbankcolleges.ac.uk/courses/construction and take the first step towards a future-proof career in the electrical, construction, or sustainable energy sectors.
UrbanChain secures electricity supply licence
Ofgem have granted an electricity supply licence to a UK leading provider of peer-to-peer energy exchange services. The founders of UrbanChain say they can offer an exceptional range of products to their customers whilst generator clients will be able to have a higher level of control. CleanTech company says it is more than an energy exchange platform, ‘our role is to create communities’ The UK’s leading peer-to-peer energy exchange services provider’s growth journey has taken a significant leap, following Ofgem granting the company an electricity supply licence. Backed by a leading European investment group Eurazeo, UrbanChair has described the news as a major milestone in its journey. Somayeh Taheri and Mo Hajhashem, the founders of the CleanTech company, have sought a supply licence for a long time. They’ve said the granting of ‘Electricity Supply Licence for non-domestic premises to UC Energy Ltd’ will enable UrbanChain to offer ‘a superior quality array of products’ to its customers while ‘ensuring a higher level of control for its generator clients. Mo, UrbanChain COO, said: “Since our inception UrbanChain has enjoyed many pivotal moments. Obtaining our electricity supply licence from Ofgem ranks extremely high as you have to pass a very rigorous due diligence process. It’s a major turning point for us and a new era in our business. “More importantly this next step in our journey will help secure an even stronger service for UrbanChain’s energy demand customers. “It will also enable us to step up our ability to offer customers a real traceable choice of energy and advance UrbanChain’s plans for granular ESG tracking.” UrbanChain’s deeptech peer-to-peer energy exchange platform uses integrated smart contracts and machine learning to match generators of renewable energy and consumers on a half hourly basis – resulting in secure energy prices and secure physical flows for energy generators. Local government organisations, companies from across the private sector, generators of renewable energy, energy suppliers and domestic households all trade within the regulated platform. Following the supply licence being granted, UrbanChain Portfolio Optimisation Director Garry Pickering described the positive implications that it will have on the company’s generator clients. “With UrbanChain now an official energy supplier it ensures we have full control of our peer-to-peer matching process which enables greater security for generators of renewable energy. “But it doesn’t stop there. We will have clearer transparency on data flows and it will allow us to roll out a new suite of products, ensuring generators have true choice in where their generation goes.” This month UrbanChain, which has a headcount of 30, revealed that it is gearing up for a Series B funding round push towards the end of 2024. It follows last year’s successful Series A funding round led by Eurazeo, which has €33.5bn in diversified assets under management. The CleanTech company has also been backed by the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero and Innovate UK. Somayeh Taheri, UrbanChain CEO, said: “We started UrbanChain with a mission to alleviate fuel poverty and to fix a broken inefficient energy market model. “Our social responsibility values haven’t wavered and we see ourselves as more than a platform or an energy exchange, our role is to create communities. “Renewable energy is not just for the well off and we are tackling this. Our goal is to connect as many generators as possible to their regional communities and local businesses. “Having the supply licence will only strengthen our mission which is to make renewables mainstream. “Peer-to-peer energy exchange is a choice in itself and if we can help all parts of society become renewable prosumers then we are succeeding in our core missions.”
With more homeowners turning to renewable technology, SELECT President warns of the dangers of electrical work by rogue tradespeople
Scotland’s largest construction trade body, SELECT, outgoing President, has issued a warning of the rise of rogue tradespeople pretending to be qualified electricians who are taking advantage of the boom in domestic renewables technology. Alistair Grant, who will soon end his two-year tenure at the organisation, has warned of the increasing concern throughout the industry of the dangers of incorrectly installed technology including electric vehicle (EV) charging points and solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. Based in Elgin, Mr Grant, has said with demand from consumers on the increase, SELECT members are reporting an alarming increase in shoddy and dangerous workmanship that has had to be resolved by qualified and fully-trained electricians. He said: “With governments driving the transition to net zero, and homeowners being urged to play their part, we’ve seen an increase in ‘green energy experts’ coming forward to take advantage of demand, yet it’s obvious that a lot of these so-called experts have no wider knowledge of electrical best practice or safety. “Electrical installations these days are very complex and the fitting of technology like domestic EV charge points, battery storage and solar panels needs to be carried out by professional electricians, not people who’ve merely done a short course. “The needs of every home are unique and complicated when it comes to electrical installations, yet we are hearing numerous reports of SELECT members being called out to rectify work that is not only shoddy but downright dangerous.” More than 140,000 households have installed solar PV panels and 4,000 public EV charge points are already in place, with Transport Scotland estimating that the nation will need around 30,000 charge points by 2030. Mr Grant added: “As demand grows, some fellow members have told me ‘it’s like the Wild West out there’, with rogue companies literally knocking on doors and offering to install renewable electrical equipment for a knockdown price. “Unfortunately in the current cost of living crisis, consumers are often making decisions purely on cost alone, not realising that they could face a much higher bill later for getting the work put right and made safe. “Even more worryingly, they might not realise anything is wrong at all, and end up paying the ultimate price further down the line when any hidden faults cause a fire or worse.” Mr Grant pointed to a survey carried out by Electrical Safety First in conjunction with Loughborough University in which out of 1,700 homes examined, 80% had electrical faults, 50% of which were critical. He added: “One solar installation which I was called out to recently had direct current cabling running from the roof, directly through a pile of children’s toys in the loft and into a cupboard in the home – the potential for a disastrous fire was obvious to see. “This is typical of the kind of things we are seeing, and just emphasises why consumers should ALWAYS use a full-trained and qualified electrician from a SELECT member company for EVERY electrical job.” Mr Grant will hand over the Presidency of SELECT to current Vice President Mike Stark at the SELECT AGM on Thursday 6 June, and said his two-year term had been “hectic, but thoroughly enjoyable”. He said he had enjoyed attending meetings across the UK as well as spearheading two successful President’s Lunch events, and paid tribute to the excellence of the staff in the background at SELECT who maintain the organisation’s high standards. He said: “Despite the proliferation of rogue tradespeople, I am very optimistic about the future of the electrical sector and the industry is doing a great job in a society which depends more and more on electricity. “I’m also confident that electrical contractors of all sizes will continue to be expertly supported by the team at SELECT, who work tirelessly behind the scenes on their behalf to create a safer electrotechnical industry and, ultimately, a safer landscape for consumers.” Other stories
Prevention is Better Than Cure: Medical Isolated Power Supplies
In the healthcare industry, it is crucial to ensure a safe, continuous, and dependable power supply to avoid any potential risks to patient, and hospital staff, safety. Traditional electrical systems, whilst effective in numerous applications, are not suitable for medical environments due to the increased vulnerability of patients. Initially, continuity of supply in the event of an earth fault must be provided. Patients in hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, are often at higher risk from electric shock because of a reduction in body resistance due to a variety of medical conditions. Quite low currents, of the order of only a few milliamps (mA), can cause fatal electric shock. Therefore, provision must be made to mitigate these risks and provide protection against any possible electrical leakage currents. This reduces the risk of a shock hazard occurring, ensuring the protection of patients and hospital staff. There may also be a risk from failure of the electrical supply, with potentially life threatening consequences. Areas where applied parts (i.e. electrical equipment in direct physical contact with the patient) and failure of the electrical supply may create a danger to the patient life are defined in BS 7671:2018 Medical Locations. A secondary power supply is critical to ensuring that patient safety is maintained in the event of power failure. Even a momentary drop in power in the event of mains failure could have catastrophic consequences as it could result in the shutdown of medical devices, interruptions to critical operations, and risk to patient life… medical locations cannot afford to risk this! Most hospitals and medical facilities have backup generators on-site, but in medical locations such as Group 2, further resilience is required. In Group 2 medical locations:_ • An IT system must be used for the final circuits • The system must be equipped with insulation monitoring • In case of a fault or a failure of supply, a total loss of power in a Group 2 medical location shall be prevented These requirements can be generally satisfied by installing a suitable Medical Isolated Power System (MIPS) To address this issue, advanced technologies such as Medical Isolated Power Supply (MIPS) systems are used to enhance patient safety standards by providing an isolated power source for medical devices, minimizing electrical hazards, reducing the risk of electric shock and an uninterruptible power delivery system for mains electrical failures. Understanding the Need for MIPS: In conventional electrical setups, such as those found in homes or standard buildings, the earth is typically connected, establishing a live, neutral, and earth connection, commonly known as the TNS electrical installation in the UK. However, in medical environments, especially those catering to critically ill patients, electrical faults present significantly higher risks of shock. Therefore, to enhance patient safety, the BPC MIPS solution introduces an IT configuration away from the traditional TNS arrangement that eliminates the presence of neutral wire and disconnects earth. This technical adjustment is aimed at minimizing the risk of electrical shocks and represents a strategic move towards a paradigm shift in earthing arrangements in order to ensure patient safety by minimising the risk of electrical shocks. Understanding the Need for MIPS in Meeting Government Regulations: In the medical domain, adherence to stringent regulations and standards is non-negotiable. The Health Technical Memorandum 06-02 (HTM 06-02) is the UK national standard used for electrical installations and wiring safety, providing crucial guidance to duty holders (healthcare managers, electrical safety groups, design, and operation managers to name a few), detailing the precautions necessary to mitigate the risk of death and personal injury. Healthcare establishments, governed by these regulations, are required to provide as much resilience as possible, as medical electrical systems pose a significant risk to patient safety due to the possibility of inadvertent contact with live wires. Additionally, medical environments are incorporated in Part 7 (Section 710) of BS 7671 18th edition regulations as it works in conjunction with the HTM 06-02 guidance and so, installations must adhere to both. BPC MIPS is designed and engineered in strict accordance with industry benchmarks such as the HTM06 standard and BS7671 18th edition, providing a robust electrical system that mitigates electrical medical risks and allows medical facilities to uphold the highest standards of care. The Role of MIPS in Patient Safety: The fundamental objective of MIPS is clear: to safeguard patients from electrical hazards in medical settings. Unlike standard electrical systems, where accidental contact with a live wire could result in potentially life-threatening shocks, MIPS employs a sophisticated insulation monitoring mechanism that prevents the flow of electric current to patients. This proactive approach drastically reduces the likelihood of electrical accidents, ensuring a safer environment for patients and healthcare professionals alike. That is why BPC ensures our medical IPS solutions feature a supply switch that increases resilience and monitoring and alarm circuits that ensure continuous operation during normal and abnormal conditions. Our Medical Isolated Power Supplies are carefully designed for medical locations and with complete compliance to medical regulations and safety standards. Most importantly, our MIPS solutions are designed to: • Ensure patient safety, • Reduce the risk of electrical shock hazards, • Minimise tripping of breakers during earth faults. How is BPC Taking the Lead in the Medical IPS Industry? In a market characterized by its emphasis on patient safety and regulatory compliance, BPC Energy emerges as a beacon of innovation and reliability. Our MIPS solutions not only meet but exceed industry standards, offering unparalleled levels of safety and performance. Here’s Why BPC Stands Out: BPC Energy is a comprehensive solution provider. Unlike traditional suppliers, we offer both uninterruptible power supplies and medical IPS solutions, which are often sought after in conjunction with each other in medical facilities. Simply put, BPC provides the complete package. From UPS to MIPS, we offer a holistic approach to power management, ensuring seamless integration and performance across the board. Additionally, BPC combines superior technology with competitive pricing, delivering exceptional value for money by eliminating the need for multiple suppliers, streamlining procurement processes and therefore, reducing operational costs. Furthermore,
