Joe Brawn, Product and Marketing Director at Vent-Axia, sets out the company’s sustainability targets and how electrical wholesalers can play their part in the UK reaching its 2050 net-zero goal.

Despite the Government appearing to slow down on its route to net zero, the UK still has the legal target to meet net zero by 2050. Rather than putting sustainability on the back burner to meet these targets it is important to make changes now to ensure we meet this goal.

At Vent-Axia we are committed to a low-carbon future with the health and wellbeing of people and the planet at its core. We have been leading the ventilation industry since 1936 and it is something we continue to do with our aim to become net zero by 2040, 10 years ahead of the UK’s 2050 net zero target. Currently, the carbon avoided by Vent-Axia’s group products is around four times the group’s operational carbon footprint.

Carbon avoidance is the only way for the UK to reach net zero with the decarbonisation of buildings an essential part of this, which is why it is important for the whole supply chain to play its part. We therefore aim to provide our customers with the products to help them on their decarbonisation journey while also continuing our commitment to providing effective ventilation to improve indoor air quality (IAQ) and comfort for inhabitants – since 70% of the air we breathe in our lifetime is air inside buildings.

Strategy

To illustrate our commitment, Vent-Axia has set clear sustainability targets including increasing sales of our low-carbon products and increasing the use of recycled material in our manufacturing. As part of our sustainability strategy Vent-Axia has developed three pillars that orientate and deliver our long-term objectives which are: Product – engineer sustainable solutions; Planet – improve environmental performance; and People – connect people together.

These focus areas have driven several targets including Vent-Axia setting a target of 70% of our sales revenue to be from low-carbon products by end of FY2025. Through our commitment to our targets the company has successfully reached this milestone ahead of the target date. At Vent-Axia we have also set a target for 90% of the plastic we use in our own manufacturing to be from recycled sources by the end of FY2025. Currently this figure is already at 83% and so we are on track to hit the 90% figure.

Heat recovery

Vent-Axia recognises the importance of cutting carbon emissions in the built environment since buildings account for 40% of energy use in Europe and approximately 35% of emissions. To meet the Government’s 2050 net zero target, buildings need to decarbonise which will involve the wide-scale electrification of heating, a move away from fossil fuels, as well as significant improvements to air tightness and building insulation. Heat recovery ventilation will be a key technology to help deliver the final piece of the carbon avoidance by preventing heat loss, so as a technology it is set for significant growth. This is a huge opportunity for the electrical industry, so it is an important time for electrical wholesalers to familiarise themselves with the products.

To meet the necessary carbon reductions buildings are becoming more thermally efficient as they are insulated, and their air tightness is increased to avoid heat loss. However, without considering ventilation alongside these measures a building can end up with condensation, mould and poor IAQ. Energy efficient heat recovery ventilation therefore supplies a solution that provides healthy filtered air while recovering heat that would be otherwise lost.

At Vent-Axia we collaborate closely with our customer base to ensure we develop the products customers need to decarbonise. For that reason, we are constantly improving the efficiency of our products and reducing their carbon intensity. For our latest heat recovery ventilation products, the Sentinel Apex commercial heat recovery system and the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq residential Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR), we can provide TM65 data to help customers understand their wider life cycle assessment.

Retrofit

Heat recovery ventilation does not only benefit new build residential and new build commercial properties. With most of the housing stock that will exist in 2050 already built, it is imperative we improve the heat loss of existing stock through deep, energy efficient refurbishment. This is where electrical wholesalers can step in offering electricians heat recovery ventilation solutions. As existing homes improve with greater levels of insulation and become more airtight, it is important that they are adequately ventilated in line with Building Regulations, Part F. Vent-Axia has therefore specifically developed a heat recovery range to provide increased ventilation whilst minimising unnecessary heat loss through heat recovery technology in existing homes.

Historically heat recovery ventilation has been delivered by a central ducted heat recovery unit but this presents a number of issues for electricians in retrofit applications. The biggest barrier is the difficulty to install complex duct runs within an existing dwelling. Vent-Axia has therefore specifically designed the Heat Recovery Retrofit Solution for easy, lower cost retrofit of heat recovery to save maximum energy and emissions. It replaces a complex central ducted heat recovery unit, with smaller easy to install wall and ceiling units, dramatically reducing the ducting and therefore the cost of the installation. The range consists of three different dMVHR units comprising: the Lo-Carbon Heat Save, an alternative flow heat recovery unit; the Lo-Carbon Tempra, a wall mounted heat recovery unit; and the Lo-Carbon Calido, a heat recovery unit that utilises a simplified ducting system that can run within the home or in the roof space. These three units can be used together to help maximise energy savings, by introducing heat recovery into a property,

With carbon reductions becoming ever more important as the 2050 target approaches now is the time to makes changes. Electrical wholesalers that are prepared for decarbonisation will benefit both themselves and their customers. We can work together to help reach net zero.

For more information, click here

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PEW hears from Kasp on the vital role of safe isolation in ensuring electrical security.

In the world of electrical work, safe isolation is a fundamental part of an electrician’s role – not only to protect circuits but to protect people’s lives.

While health and safety is already a top priority in high risk industries like construction, those who work regularly with known hazards can sometimes become complacent. In the electrical sector – the safe isolation of the electrical network cannot be overlooked.

It’s an essential but often underestimated aspect of the job and is a key step in ensuring that workers on site aren’t exposed to danger when working on or near live electrical systems. Safe isolation is a multi-step process that involves not only turning off the power but also locking out the circuit to prevent accidental reactivation.

Sadly, over 1,000 electricity-related accidents are reported to the HSE every year, 30 of which lead to fatal injuries. When dealing with live electricity, there’s no room for error, the only way to ensure everyone’s safety is by adopting thorough isolation procedures.

The opportunity for electrical wholesalers is clear; encouraging the usage of appropriate lock off devices as an essential piece of kit for professional electricians to protect themselves and others from potentially deadly consequences. The supply of this equipment is not only an opportunity to generate sales, but an opportunity to save lives.

Keep assets secure

With over 40 years of security expertise under its belt, Kasp is one of the UK’s leading security padlock, chain, and cable brands, created by Carl Kammerling International Ltd.

Kasp Lockout is a range of essential tools designed specifically with safe isolation in mind, to protect electricians and their colleagues from accidents at work. Every year, thousands of injuries at work occur during the repair or maintenance of machinery, and most are due to a failure to isolate energy sources. Kasp Lockout safeguards against a sudden release of energy, locking off energy sources using padlocks and physical security devices.

 Kasp Easifit MCB Lockout

This universal mini circuit breaker isolates single, double, and triple switches. Its simple installation uses no tools, and quickly protects against dangerous energy surges while maintenance and repairs are carried out.

To use, simply place the tool over the switch, tighten the easy-to-use thumb screw, rotate the screw toggle and lockout with a padlock. Made from quality, non-conductive material, the Kasp Easifit MCB Lockout is an essential part of any maintenance toolbox.

Kasp 812 Pin Lockout

Ideal for locking out wider miniature circuit breakers, this pin lockout uses a simple push button installation, so no tools are required. Made from high quality, non-conductive material, the pin lockout works with one padlock and fits a maximum shackle diameter of 6mm.

Kasp MCB Lockout Kit

This unique kit contains all the essential parts to lock off one mini circuit breaker. The kit includes an Easifit MCB Lockout, one 25mm brass padlock, a danger and identity tag, and a carabiner to hold the kit together. Essential Lockout Kit This kit is ideal for a broad range of circuit breakers, including those over 60 A. It’s easy to use and contains both the Easifit MCB Lockout and the Pin Out Wide Lockout. F

Fitting neatly into a sturdy red pouch with a carabiner for hands-free access, the kit also contains a 40mm red vinyl coloured brass padlock with brass shackle, a 25mm brass padlock, a lock off hasp, a tagout marker pen, and a danger tag.

Protection for electrician’s assets

According to Met Police data, nearly 35,000 tools were stolen in the capital city alone between January 2021 and October 2022. A third of those tools were stolen from vehicles. Kasp Van Locks provide the ultimate defence for tradespeople seeking to protect their vehicles.

Kasp 500 Van Lock and Hasp

Designed just for vans, the Kasp 500 Van Lock’s chrome plated hardened steel body gives incredible strength as well as protection from corrosion. A shrouded steel shackle offers the ultimate safeguard against hacksaw and cropping attacks, while its six-pin cylinder defends against lock picking.

With a corrosion resistant mechanism to protect against the elements, this is the ultimate van lock. Meanwhile, the hasp is made from zinc plated heavy duty steel, giving excellent security and protection against corrosion. It is supplied with fixing bolts and includes a nifty storage bracket to hold the padlock when the van is open.

Conclusion

Safe isolation is more than just a routine task for an electrician – it’s arguably the most important part of their role and demonstrates their commitment to prioritising the protection of others.

Electrical professionals should be actively encouraged to utilise the latest technologies and equipment available to them to make every day electrical work safer for all involved. The consequences of not doing so are simply too great.

For more information, click here

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IP-based door intercom systems with an integrated access solution provide tremendous flexibility and security, especially for buildings with multiple residential or commercial units.

Access permissions can be remotely controlled with just a few clicks, eliminating the need to hand over physical keys, especially for the main entrance door. But what to do when investment resources for a complete modernisation are lacking, or a change in the building fabric is not possible?

DoorBird now has a solution for this: The new D410 Smart Door Controller makes every door smart and enables digital access for existing analog door intercom and locking systems with an electric door opener, especially for the main entrance door. Commonly used doors in residential and office buildings can be opened by authorized individuals such as residents, family members and friends, employees, handymen, and other service providers via the intelligent door controller on the app or using a Bluetooth key fob remote control.

Installing the Smart Door Controller is quick and easy to do: Without having to change the building fabric, the DoorBird D410 can be installed out of sight behind the panel of the existing intercom system.

For more information, click here

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This month we quizzed Signify’s new CEO for UK&I, Nico van der Merwe, on changes and trends in the lighting sector

1. How did you get involved in the industry?

 Firstly, looking into my experiences and the skills that I have developed over the years, I have held roles in technical channel development and marketing so my move to the electrical/ lighting industry has been a natural progression. The industry offers similar technologies, go-to-market strategies, and customers, so it feels like I can make a positive impact.

When I joined my previous firm, I realised that the electrical industry has so much to offer given the work we do around connected solutions and automations as at the core of it lies the use of energy. This was new to me, intrigued me, has shaped my career for the past almost 15 years.

Also, I bring a variety of global experience to this role at Signify. I have had the fortune of working in the finance industry, in the auto industry and in the mining and construction industry.

My experience of working in these industries has been in both developed and developing economies. I feel all this varied experience of over two decades has helped me round my thinking about the industry, the priorities and have an outlook of what the future holds.

2. What do you think about the upcoming changes to the RoHS Directive and how could it impact the lighting sector?

The Restriction of hazardous substances (RoHS) in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations affect businesses that are involved with electrical and electronic equipment.

This includes manufacturers, importers, exporters, businesses that re-brand goods, and of course distributors. The regulations limit the use of hazardous substances such as mercury, lead and cadmium in the manufacture of new electrical and electronic equipment placed on the market in the UK.

For the lighting sector in particular, the legislation regulates the use of mercury in lighting products, impacting what products are permitted on the market for installation.

For general lighting purposes, a ban on Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLni lamps) and on T5 and T8 fluorescent Tubes comes into play from February 2024.

One of the most important changes introduced by RoHS2 is that it has become a CE Marking Directive, enforced under the EU’s New Legislative Framework (NLF)/ the UKCA mark in the UK.

This means that in order to affix the CE Marking on the EEE, the manufacturer must meet the requirements of the RoHS Directive in addition to the requirements of other applicable CE Marking Directives (e.g. EMC or the Low Voltage Directive).

As a major environmental regulation of electronics, RoHS is step in the right direction to ensure lighting products like fluorescent lamps that are hazardous to humankind and our environment are banned.

The question on the sales of fluorescent lighting was never previously under the spotlight due to the lack of the right replacement or alternative.

However, over the years, LED lighting has emerged, with like-for-like replacements that are a cost-effective, mercury-free, sustainable alternative to fluorescents.

While the EcoDesign regulation will have removed many conventional lighting products based on their poor energy performance, such as the ban of fluorescent T8s in August 2024, RoHS is poised now to address the products left behind on the basis of their toxicity.

3. What is Signify doing to promote lighting sustainability and a circular economy?

Signify is a global leader in an industry that has led the wider electrical products for construction and refurbishment sectors on a path of ever-increasing efficiencies and energy savings through continuous invention, innovation, and development.

The advent of LED, a ‘sea change’ in energy efficiency and sustainable decarbonising  products, has been enhanced with the application of Central and Building Management Systems and intelligent controls such as the Signify Interact range which turns high efficiency LED into Ultra efficient lighting systems capable of delivering 80% + savings over traditional platforms.

Sustainability is in our DNA.  It’s our purpose to unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. By changing the way that we create and use light, we can improve lives and have a positive impact on the planet.

Over the past 125 years, Signify has pioneered many key breakthroughs in sustainable lighting, being a driving force behind several leading technological innovations, including LED.

We are now on a new five-year journey out to 2025, focusing on doubling our positive impact on the environment and society under the Brighter Lives, Better World 2025 sustainability programme, going beyond carbon neutrality.

The programme is central to everything we do, everything from products to services. As a result, we were recently included in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI) for the sixth consecutive year.

More broadly, Signify’s Brighter Lives, Better World2025 program sets bold targets across the areas of climate action, circularity, and societal impact. We understand that making our economy more circular has become more important than ever.

Today society uses 1.7 times the resources than our planet can sustain, and resource scarcity and waste have reached worrying proportions. As Signify, we are committed to responsible consumption and production (SDG12) with products that can be reprinted, refurbished, reused or recycled.

This will help us to achieve our goal of doubling our revenues from circular products, systems and services to 32% by the end of 2025. To date, we have achieved 31% versus a baseline of 16% and are already nearly at our 2025 target.

4. What are the upcoming lighting trends to keep an eye on?

This year bought with it familiar problems for cities around the world. Many countries are still facing a multitude of crises: climate change continues to accelerate, economies are under pressure, and consumers are coping with inflation and skyrocketing energy bills. But a new year also brings a renewed sense of optimism and fresh focus.

Firstly, the EU and UK have passed legislation that prohibits the use of conventional fluorescent lighting. The ban has been a long time coming—not only are fluorescent bulbs outdated and inefficient, they contain harmful materials like phosphorus and mercury.

With the ban coming into effect in early 2023 in EU and 2024 in the UK, the shift to energy-efficient LED is set to accelerate even more than it has over the last two decades.

Secondly, I expect that the switch from traditional lighting to LED will see an acceleration in the public and business space. Though it is not a new concept, the immense energy-saving benefits from LED lighting continue to be either misunderstood or overlooked.

Most people are now aware that LED lighting is more energy-efficient than conventional lighting—at least 50% more efficient, in fact—but the full potential of what can be achieved remains unrealised. For a start, connecting LEDs and managing them via a software-based lighting management system raises increases energy savings to as much as 80%.

Therefore, I feel connectivity that is driven by purpose will be a huge trend for 2023.

Also, city budgets are tight. Whether it’s the strain of post-pandemic regeneration or the global impact of the war in Ukraine, many economies are at breaking point. City decision-makers may have the ambition to develop and improve their infrastructure, but without funding it’s simply not viable.

Luckily, the UK government is starting to take action. Slowly but surely, programs are being established that promise to support infrastructure projects and help cities achieve the goal of becoming sustainable while at the same time improving the health and well-being of citizens.

Take for instance the recent announcement on the Energy Efficiency Taskforce that aims to finance energy reduction and decarbonisation projects. But. these difficult conditions also testified the relevance of Signify’ s extensive portfolio of sustainable and connected lighting solutions.

With climate change, the energy crisis hitting Europe and spiralling inflation creating a perfect storm in the economy, customers in all spheres recognise the urgent environmental and financial need to reduce energy consumption.

5. What are your aims and objective for the year ahead?

 Signify is a company with a rich heritage, a powerful product portfolio, a talented team, and a strong leadership position in sustainability. I am sure we are well positioned to further grow the business and industry while continuing to make a positive impact on society and the environment through our innovations.

The UK and Ireland have exciting opportunities in the market for us and our customers and that what I want to make possible for us in the new role. This objective will also ultimately help drive us closer to the Signify five frontier strategy for growth where we focus on being more customer centric, enable differentiated offers, growth for sustainability, drive digitalisation and be a great place to work.

For more information, click here

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