With National Apprenticeship Week still fresh in the memory, EIC highlights some of the resources available to apprentices looking for support during the early stages of their careers.

Our apprentices are heavily impacted by the factors that are affecting our industry. On a lower wage and balancing college work with their training, apprentices are vulnerable to suffering with their mental health, whilst combatting the tribulations of the financial climate and the pressures faced in their early career. Together, we can work to create a safe space for those new to our industry and learning their trade.

Addiction

Substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) and gambling addictions are increasing among apprentices and this is a pressing concern. It’s important that we educate our industry on risks, where to find support and how to cope utilising positive coping strategies. Support may be offered to those who are experiencing addiction through the creation of a safe and non-judgemental environment that promotes the use of signposting to organisations that can provide specific and tailored support to the presenting issues. Organisations such as Al-Anon, AA, NA, GA, GamCare and GamAware can help.

Eating Disorders

An eating disorder is a medical diagnosis that is based on eating patterns and can include bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, OSFED, ARFID, Pica, rumination disorder and diabulimia. Not every eating problem will be diagnosed as an eating disorder. Further information on the different types of eating disorders is available at www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/eating-problems/types-of-eating-disorders.

Self-Harm

Whilst apprentices are at high risk of self-harming, anyone can be affected and may self-harm. Self-harm is a way in which some people cope with very difficult feelings, painful memories or overwhelming situations. In some cases, self-harm has been described as a way to express something too challenging to put into words, to turn thoughts into something visible, to release the psychological pain and to feel in control. Reasons that someone may start self-harming include: pressures at work or school, bullying, money concerns, bereavement, relationship breakdowns, health problems, increase in stress and low self-esteem. Further information on how to help yourself if you are self-harming is available at: www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/self-harm/helping-yourself-now/.

Mental Health Awareness Training

The EIC is offering industry apprentices 15 mental health awareness training modules for free. The course has been designed to give:

• An understanding of what mental health is and how to challenge the stigma
• A basic knowledge of some common mental health issues
• An introduction to looking after your own mental health and maintaining wellbeing
• Confidence to support someone in distress or who may be experiencing a mental health issue

Apprentices who complete this course will be able to:

• Define mental health and understand its importance
• Recognise the signs of mental health challenges in themselves and their peers
• Access resources for seeking help and support if needed
• Contribute to a stigma-free environment that prioritises mental health in the workplace
• Understand the basics of self-care for maintaining mental wellbeing

If you are interested in accessing any of the training courses, you can sign up through the online platform – https://eictrainingco.org/login/index.php. For businesses looking to invest in training packages, contact the EIC directly training@eictradingco.org.

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Unleash your potential for winning IT and Data Infrastructure projects

The EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules help businesses like yours create cross-selling and up-selling opportunities by building knowledge and confidence. These training modules have won a Princess Royal Training Award so you can be assured of their value.

IT and Data Infrastructure is one of 12 training courses in the programme. The EDA modules are completely flexible and can be studied in any order or combination. You choose only the training your team needs.

 E-learning option

All the EDA training modules are available in a digital format instead of a printed textbook. The digital learning option is a complete e-learning experience with videos and interactive content. The EDA team is happy to talk you through your options and can give you a demonstration of the new e-learning platform.

IT and Data Infrastructure training module covers:

• Information technology/data communications
• Uninterruptible power supply
• Structured cabling
• Cabinets and racks
• Connectivity
• Termination
• Test equipment
• Cloud computing and data centres
• Quality and best practice

Years of knowledge to give your team a commercial edge

City & Guilds accredited, this training programme harnesses decades of combined expertise from product experts at EDA manufacturers and allied trade associations to create an accessible and practical training opportunity for you and your team.

EDA Product Knowledge modules are also approved for Continuing Professional Development by The CPD Certification Service.

Test your knowledge

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the IT and Data Infrastructure module. Then check your answers below. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today.

Q1 What is a LAN?

Q2: True or False? Most small UPS are maintenance-free.

Q3: What three elements make up a basic optical fibre?

Q4: Name the two types of wiring schemes?

Q5: What is the requirement for the installer when issuing warranties?

Q6: List the four types of data centre.

Scroll for Answers

Q1: Local Area Network – a group of network devices connected together usually limited to a single building or a group of buildings in a limited area
Q2: True. Most small UPS are maintenance-free
Q3: 1. Core 2. Cladding 3. Primary coatin
Q4: 1. T568A 2. T568B
Q5: Must have formal product training
Q6: 1. Enterprise 2. Hosted 3. Co-location4. Cloud services

How did you do?

Full marks: Well done!

3 – 5 out of 6: Not bad. Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and help you progress in your career?

Less than 3: The EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales.

Watch the video and download the course directory

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk, including video and a downloadable course directory giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules.

The EDA team is ready to help. Call 020 3141 7350 or email training@eda.org.uk.

For more information, click here

The post EDA Insight modules: IT and Data Infrastructure Quiz appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

The EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules help businesses like yours create cross-selling and up-selling opportunities by building knowledge and confidence. These training modules have won a Princess Royal Training Award so you can be assured of their value.

Customer Services is one of 12 training courses in the programme. The EDA modules are completely flexible and can be studied in any order or combination. You choose only the training your team needs.

E-learning option

All the cmodules are available in a digital format instead of a printed textbook. The digital learning option is a complete e-learning experience with videos and interactive content. The EDA team is happy to talk you through your options and can give you a demonstration of the new e-learning platform.

The Customer Service training module covers:

• Introducing our customers
• What is excellent customer service?
• The customer journey
• Customer service: right first time, every time
• The importance of stock availability
• Time management
• The skills of questioning and listening
• Selling add-ons as a service
• Measuring customer service and going the extra mile

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Customer Service module. Then check your answers below. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today.

Q1: If using barcodes in your warehouse, what must we ensure before putting away any product?

Q2: How would you describe the 80/20 rule?

Q3: What should you do if you have promised something to a customer by a certain time, but you realize it can’t be achieved?

Q4: How can you measure customer complaints for stock availability?

Q5: What will a to do list hopefully stop you doing?

Q6: What are the benefits of measuring your service?

SCROLL FOR ANSWERS

Q1: That the product has a barcode label on it.
Q2: 80% of your sales will be produced from 20% of your products.
Q3: Call them and let them know.
Q4: Number of Stock lines (SKU’s) / (divided by) number of SKU’s on backorder = % Available
Q5: Forgetting things
Q6: To identify areas where you need to improve by implementing corrective action

HOW DID YOU DO?

Full marks: Well done!

3 – 5 out of 6: Not bad. Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and help you progress in your career?

Less than 3: The EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales.

WATCH THE VIDEO AND DOWNLOAD THE COURSE DIRECTORY

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk including videos and a downloadable Course Directory, giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules. The EDA team is ready to help. Visit ???

For related articles, click here

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The EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules help businesses like yours create cross-selling and up-selling opportunities by building knowledge and confidence.

These training modules have won a Princess Royal Training Award in 2022 so you can be assured of their value.

Cables and Cable Management is one of 12 training courses in the programme. The EDA modules are completely flexible and can be studied in any order or combination. You choose only the training your team needs.

 E-learning option

All the EDA training modules are available in a digital format instead of a printed textbook. The digital learning option is a complete e-learning experience with videos and interactive content. The EDA team is happy to talk you through your options and can give you a demonstration of the new e-learning platform.

Cables and Cable Management training module covers:

• Wiring systems
• Telecommunications cables
• Optical fibre cables
• Special cables
• Substandard and counterfeit cables
• Cable fire performance
• Cable management systems
• Cable termination

City & Guilds accredited, this training programme harnesses decades of combined expertise from product experts at EDA manufacturers and allied trade associations to create an accessible and practical training opportunity for you and your team.

Test your knowledge

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Cables and Cable Management module. Then check your answers below. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today.

Q1: What colour insulation is used to denote a protective earth conductor?

Q2: Name two types of metallic CMS.

Q3: How many bits per second (b/s) are there in one Mb/s?

Q4: To what do the following acronyms refer: LFH and LSF?

Q5: What colour ducting is used to denote a telecommunication installation in the

public highway?

Q6: What is the connection between a conductor and other equipment or

accessory called?

Scroll for answers

Q1: Green/yellow

Q2: Pre-galvenised (PG) zinc-coated steel, electroplating with zinc (EZ) or powder coated (PC).

Q3: 1,000,000

Q4: Low fire hazards (LFH) and low smoke and fume (LSF) cables

Q5: Grey

Q6: A termination

How did you do?

 Full marks: Well done!

3 – 5 out of 6: Not bad. Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and help you progress in your career?

Less than 3: The EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales.

Watch the video and download the course directory

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk including video and downloadable Course Directory, giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules. The EDA team is ready to help. Call 020 3141 7350 or email training@eda.org.uk

For more information, click here

The post EDA Insight: Cables and Cable Management quiz appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

The EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules help businesses like yours create cross-selling and up-selling opportunities by building knowledge and confidence.

These training modules have won a Princess Royal Training Award in 2022 so you can be assured of their value.

Heating and Ventilation is one of 12 training courses in the programme. The EDA modules are completely flexible and can be studied in any order or combination. You choose only the training your team needs.

E-learning option

All the EDA training modules are available in a digital format instead of a printed textbook. The digital learning option is a complete e-learning experience with videos and interactive content. The EDA team is happy to talk you through your options and can give you a demonstration of the new e-learning platform.

Heating and Ventilation training module covers:

• The principles of heat
• Heating – elements, controls and types of heaters
• The principles of hot water
• Types of water heaters
• The principles of ventilation
• Ventilation applications

Years of knowledge to give your team a commercial edge

City & Guilds accredited, this training programme harnesses decades of combined expertise from product experts at EDA manufacturers and allied trade associations to create an accessible and practical training opportunity for you and your team.

Test your knowledge

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Heating and Ventilation module. Then check your answers below. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today.

Q1: True or False: The hotter the object the more radiation it gives off.

Q2: What is the advantage of underfloor heating that is on a mat or roll?

Q3: What advantage do mobile air conditioning units have?

Q4: Fill in the missing word: Forward curve fans are very good at providing                     .

Q5: Power x time =

Q6: What is the minimum flow rate for a kitchen sink tap?

Scroll for answers

Q1: True.

Q2: It gives an even spread of heat.

Q3: They can be moved from room to room.

Q4: Pressure.

Q5: Energy

Q6: 6.0 litres

How did you do?

Full marks: Well done!

3-5 out of 6: Not bad. Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and help you progress in your career?

Less than 3: The EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales.

Watch the video and download the Course Directory

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk including video and downloadable Course Directory, giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules.

The EDA team is ready to help. Call 020 3141 7350 or email training@eda.org.uk

For more information, click here

The post EDA Insight modules: Heating and Ventilation quiz appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Are you a new energy guru?

The EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules help businesses like yours create cross-selling and up-selling opportunities by building knowledge and confidence. These training modules have won a Princess Royal Training Award 2022 so you can be assured of their value.

Renewables including EV Charging is one of 12 training courses in the programme. The EDA modules are completely flexible and can be studied in any order or combination. You choose only the training your team needs.

E-learning option

From July 2023 all the EDA training modules are available as an e-learning option with videos and interactive content. The original textbooks are still available and the EDA team is happy to talk you through your options and give you a demonstration of the new e-learning platform.

The Renewables including EV Charging training module covers:

• Promotion of uptake of renewables
• Solar photovoltaic
• Electrical energy storage systems
• Electric vehicles
• Heat Pumps
• Wind turbines
• Energy conservation

City & Guilds accredited, this training programme harnesses decades of combined expertise from product experts at EDA manufacturers and allied trade associations to create an accessible and practical training opportunity for you and your team.

Test your knowledge

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Renewables Including EV Charging module. Then check your answers below. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today.

Q1: What are photons?

Q2: Name three types of energy storage.

Q3: What is used to describe battery capacity?

Q4: What does the acronym ‘ICE’ stand for when describing a motor vehicle?

Q5: What is the basic rule of heat transfer?

Q6: What percentage of Europe’s wind passes over the UK?

Scroll down for answers

Q1: Electromagnetic energy released by the sun.

Q2: Electrochemical, mechanical, electrical, chemical or thermal.

Q3: Ah or kWh.

Q4: Internal combustion engine.

Q5: A basic rule of heat transfer is that heat moves from warmer spaces to colder

spaces and the cycle starts again.

Q6: 40%

How did you do?

Full marks: Well done!

3 – 5 out of 6: Not bad. Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and help you progress in your career?

Less than 3: The EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales.

Watch the video and download the course directory

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk including video and downloadable course directory, giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules.

The EDA team is ready to help. Call 020 3141 7350 or email training@eda.org.uk

For more information, click here

The post EDA Insight modules: Renewables quiz appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

The EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules help businesses like yours create cross-selling and up-selling opportunities by building knowledge and confidence.

These training modules have recently won a Princess Royal Training Award 2022 so you can be assured of their value.

Distribution, Switchgear and Protection is one of 12 training courses in the programme. The EDA modules are completely flexible and can be studied in any order or combination. You choose only the training your team needs.

E-learning option

By summer 2023 all the EDA training modules will be available in a digital format instead of a printed textbook. The digital learning option is a complete e-learning experience with videos and interactive content. The EDA team is happy to talk you through your options and can give you a demonstration of the new e-learning platform.

The Distribution, Switchgear and Protection training module covers:

• Generation Transmission and Distribution
• Distributing Electricity within a Property
• Protection and Control Devices
• Additional Protection
• Supply and Metering
• Specialist Applications

Years of knowledge to give your team a commercial edge

City & Guilds accredited, this training programme harnesses decades of combined expertise from product experts at EDA manufacturers and allied trade associations to create an accessible and practical training opportunity for you and your team.

EDA Product Knowledge modules are also approved for Continuing Professional Development by The CPD Certification Service.

Test your knowledge

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Distribution, Switchgear and Protection module. Then check your answers below. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today.

Q1: Give the names of the two current ratings of a circuit-breaker.

Q2: Explain the term “DNO”

Q3: What are the consequences of a poor termination in a consumer unit?

Q4: What does the acronym SCADA stand for?

Q5: What unit of electricity is used for billing purposes?

Q6: What is pulsed output?

Scroll for answers…

How did you do?

Full marks: Well done!

3 – 5 out of 6: Not bad. Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and help you progress in your career?

Less than 3: The EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales.

<Answers to be printed upside down>

Q1: Operation and fault rating.

Q2: Distribution Network Operator.

Q3: Fire, circuit failure or unexpected operation of the circuit protective device.

Q4: Supervisory control and data acquisition

Q5: kWh.

Q6: A means of energy data collection.

Watch the video and download the course directory.

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk including video and downloadable course directory, giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules. The EDA team is ready to help. Call 020 3141 7350 or email training@eda.org.uk

For related articles, click here

The post EDA Insight: Switchgear and Protection quiz appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Service with a smile 

The EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules help businesses like yours create cross-selling and up-selling opportunities by building knowledge and confidence. What’s more these training modules have recently won a Princess Royal Training Award 2022 so you can be assured of their value. 

Customer Services is one of 12 training courses in the programme. The EDA modules are completely flexible and can be studied in any order or combination. You choose only the training your team needs. 

E-learning option  

From early 2023, Customer Services is one of the first modules to also be available in digital format instead of a printed textbook. The digital learning option is a complete e-learning experience with videos and interactive content. The EDA team is happy to talk you through your options and can give you a demonstration of the new e-learning platform.   

Customer Services provides training in:   

• Introducing our customers
• What is excellent customer service? 
• The customer journey 
• Customer service: right first time, every time 
• The importance of stock availability 
• Time management 
• The skills of questioning and listening 
• Selling add-ons as a service 
• Measuring customer service and going the extra mile 

Test your knowledge 

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Customer Services module, then check your answers below. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today. 

Q1: How would you define a customer? 

Q2: List 5 areas of customer service that can be directly affected by you? 

Q3: What is a touchpoint? 

Q4: How can your team ensure zero picking errors to the customers? 

Q5: What is an SKU? 

Q6: What is a daybook? 

How did you do? 

Full marks: Well done!  

3 – 5 out of 6: not bad. Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and help you progress in your career? 

Less than 3: the EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales. 

Q1: A person who receives goods services from another person or company. 

Q2: Any 5 from: Attitude; Greeting; Helpfulness; Easy to speak to; Speed to get through on phone; Appearance; Keeping promises; Honesty and trust; Empathy, polite and courteous; Going the extra mile; Exceeding expectations. 

Q3: The personal interaction you have with a customer.   

Q4: Double checking all orders. 

Q5: A SKU is the number of different products referenced in stock. 

Q6: A daybook is an A4 pad of paper that you can use to write everything down in- essentially a notepad with added detail. 

 Watch the video and download the Course Directory 

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk including video and downloadable Course Directory, giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules.  

The EDA team is ready to help. Call 020 3141 7350 or email training@eda.org.uk 

The post EDA Insight: An update from the Electrical Distributors’ Association  appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.