ESP explains how an end‑to‑end fire system support sets contractors – and wholesalers – up for success.

For electrical contractors navigating the increasingly complex world of fire safety compliance, having a manufacturer that offers more than just products can make all the difference. Equally important is having a wholesaler who can connect them to the right technical support from the outset. ESP has long recognised this need, and over recent years it has built a comprehensive support framework that wholesalers can confidently offer to their customers – guiding contractors from the earliest design discussions right through to final commissioning and certification.

What sets ESP apart is not simply the breadth of its offer, but the way its services integrate into a smooth, contractor‑friendly workflow that wholesalers can rely on to enhance their own customer service. The company’s Fire System Design Service and Fire Commissioning Service have become established pillars of support for installers across the UK – and together, they form a complete package that helps contractors deliver compliant, reliable systems with confidence.

Design support  

ESP’s design service has become a go‑to resource for contractors of all sizes, from local electricians to national contracting firms – often accessed via their preferred electrical wholesaler. By directing customers to ESP’s design team, wholesalers can provide added value at the earliest stage of a project. The service provides expert guidance in selecting the right products and creating a scheme that meets both the project’s objectives and all relevant regulations.

The process begins with an initial discussion to understand the site, the risks, and the client’s requirements. From there, ESP’s design team gathers measurements, drawings and specifications. For larger or more complex projects, a site visit ensures every detail is captured accurately.

With this information in hand, ESP produces a full design proposal, complete with system drawings, device schedules and a quotation. Crucially, the process is collaborative: contractors and the ESP design team work closely together to refine the scheme until it meets every requirement.

The service also extends beyond fire detection. ESP’s design team supports CCTV, Emergency Lighting, Access Control and Disabled Refuge systems – giving wholesalers a single point of contact for multiple safety disciplines. Enquiries are welcomed from both contractors and wholesalers, with a dedicated channel available at design@espuk.com.

Commissioning  

Once installation is complete, ESP’s Fire Commissioning Service provides the final layer of assurance. Delivered by qualified commissioning engineers located throughout the UK, the service ensures that every ESP fire system is tested, configured, and certified in line with BS5839‑1.

The commissioning process includes:

• Full verification of installation quality
• Device testing and loop integrity checks
• Panel programming and cause‑and‑effect configuration
• System performance testing
• Certification issued prior to handover

For contractors, this removes uncertainty and reduces liability. For wholesalers, it provides a valuable after‑sales support option that strengthens customer relationships and reinforces trust in the ESP brand. For end users, it provides confidence that their system has been installed and commissioned to the highest standard.

Independent recognition through BAFE accreditation

ESP’s commitment to quality is further reinforced by its BAFE SP203‑1 accreditation for fire system design. This accreditation – awarded only to organisations that meet strict third‑party certification requirements – places ESP on the National BAFE Fire Safety Register.

For contractors, this means the design service they rely on is independently verified as competent, compliant and aligned with all relevant British Standards. For wholesalers, it provides a strong assurance that the support they are recommending is backed by recognised industry credentials – a powerful advantage in a sector where accountability and traceability are increasingly important.

A complete package

With its established design service, nationwide commissioning support, extensive product portfolio – including the latest two‑wire fire systems – and a team of experienced technical specialists, ESP now offers contractors a truly end‑to‑end fire systems solution.

Wholesalers benefit equally, gaining the ability to offer their customers not just products, but a complete support ecosystem that spans design, installation guidance, and commissioning. This strengthens customer loyalty, enhances the wholesaler’s technical credibility and helps ensure projects run smoothly from start to finish.

In a market where compliance, documentation and reliability are under greater scrutiny than ever, ESP’s integrated approach gives contractors – and the wholesalers who support them – exactly what they need: confidence, clarity, and a partner that adds value at every stage of the project.

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We find out how Aico is improving fire detection systems in ventilated homes.

Flagship Housing is a UK social housing provider, managing over 33,000 homes across the East of England. The organisation not only builds, lets, maintains and improves homes for rent and sale, but also reinvests profits to fund more affordable housing and community-focused services.

Objectives and safety priorities

Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) and Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems are increasingly used within social housing to improve indoor air quality and address damp and mould. While these systems deliver clear health benefits, they also introduce important fire‑safety considerations, particularly around ductwork, compartment penetrations, and the potential for smoke movement within a dwelling.

Since Davin Gee joined Flagship Housing three years ago as Compliance Manager (Electrical), Aico has worked closely with him to develop a robust, standards‑led solution that improves resident safety while providing meaningful compliance assurance.

The project was designed to achieve two primary objectives:

• Improve resident safety in properties fitted with PIV or MVHR systems
• Provide live compliance data and remote notification of fire alarm activations

A key requirement was ensuring fire detection coverage met the intent of BS 5839‑6, particularly in areas where higher‑risk ventilation equipment is installed.

Davin Gee commented: “We at Flagship Housing continuously look at ways to prioritise our residents’ safety whilst at home. One way that we could do that is by increasing fire detection within properties with MVHR and PIV systems. Due to the potential for mechanical ventilation and interconnected ductwork to accelerate the spread of smoke and fire, enhanced detection ensures earlier warning for occupants, mitigates ventilation-related risks, and provides an appropriate level of life safety, particularly for vulnerable residents.”

Fire-risk drivers and life safety considerations

Fire‑safety risks associated with ventilation systems do not generally arise from the units themselves. Instead, guidance consistently highlights risks linked to ductwork, compartment penetration, specification of materials, and the movement of smoke through properties.

Many of the most serious incidents continue to involve smoke spread and compartment failure, reinforcing the importance of effective containment measures.

For Davin Gee, the primary driver for this project was the need to prevent smoke being moved throughout a property during a fire event. While ventilation systems are essential for everyday living conditions, active airflow during a fire can unintentionally aid smoke spread.

By ensuring fire detection is installed in the same areas as PIV and MVHR units, and by automatically isolating ventilation systems when an alarm activates, the approach directly targets one of the most significant life safety risks within the home.

Integrated fire safety solution

Flagship Housing adopted a standardised specification for all properties fitted with PIV or MVHR systems.

Each applicable property is equipped with:

• Ei3024 Multi-Sensor Fire Alarm – Provides enhanced smoke and heat detection.
• Ei428 RadioLINK Relay Module – Isolates the ventilation system upon alarm activation, helping limit smoke and fire spread.
• Ei1000G The Gateway – Enables remote notification of alarm activations and provides live compliance data.

This integrated approach ensures protection for residents while giving Flagship Housing immediate visibility should an incident occur. 

Implementation and installation

Installation is being completed by Karma Electrical & Fire Systems Ltd, an Aico Platinum Partner.

Platinum Partner is an Aico initiative that rewards installers who meet Gold Standard Installer requirements, are registered with NICEIC and hold an ISO 9001Quality Management system certification. 

All installers involved are fully trained and competent, having completed Aico Expert Installer training, Introduction to Damp and Mould, and the City & Guilds assured AA2426‑01 course. Early installations were supported on-site to ensure consistency and best practice from the outset.

Karl Sharman, Managing Director at Karma Electrical & Fire Systems Ltd, commented: “The Aico system is incredibly straightforward to install. From an installer’s perspective it’s well designed, logical, and easy to integrate with ventilation systems. More importantly, it gives the Registered Social Landlord far greater visibility of compliance and resident safety than traditional standalone alarms.”

Key outcomes

The project, initially for the 150 homes where Flagship Housing has ventilation systems installed, now sees that any property that has been retrofitted or any new builds will have these systems installed.

The scheme has already delivered benefits, including:

• Improved resident safety
• Reduces risk of smoke and fire spread within dwellings
• Improved assurance of compliance with BS 5839-6
• Immediate notification to Flagship Housing when alarms activate

Residents benefit from safer homes, while Flagship Housing gains improved oversight and confidence in its fire safety strategy.

Programme status and future specification

The rollout across existing properties is currently underway, with completion expected shortly.

For all new PIV and MVHR installations, this specification will now form the minimum standard, embedding fire safety considerations at the point of design rather than as a retrofit measure.

Trevor Sawyer, Relationship Manager at Aico, said: “I’m extremely proud to have been part of this collaborative approach with Flagship Housing. By strengthening fire detection in properties with MVHR and PIV systems, we’re not only enhancing compliance, but more importantly, helping to make homes safer for residents. It’s rewarding to support a forward-thinking organisation that places tenant safety at the heart of its decision making.”

This project highlights the value of strong collaboration between housing providers, manufacturers, and competent contractors. By focusing on smoke containment, automatic ventilation isolation, and real time data, Flagship Housing has implemented a proactive, resident‑focused fire safety solution that goes beyond basic compliance.

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ESP’s Alarm Finder on the Espire website provides an effective and reliable way for homeowners, landlords and businesses to identify the most appropriate smoke, heat or carbon monoxide alarms for their specific property requirements.

The tool delivers tailored recommendations to support regulatory compliance, enhance safety standards and provide complete peace of mind.

Fire safety is critical in any property, yet many people are unsure which alarms they need. The Espire Alarm Finder simplifies this process. By answering a few guided questions, users receive personalised recommendations along with clear guidance on the ideal placement of alarms, ensuring full compliance and maximum protection.

The tool begins by establishing the property’s location – England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, or Ireland – since standards and regulations vary by region. This ensures that users only see requirements relevant to them.

It then covers key details such as property type and size, risks to be monitored, system grade required, power connection options and additional features such as RF-Link interconnection and a Remote-Control Switch.

Once all questions are completed, users can request tailored documentation and receive customised recommendations for their property.

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FireAngel has reinforced its commitment to wholesaler partners by introducing a dedicated Wholesaler Support Team.

Focused on building strong relationships and delivering tailored, trade customer-first support, the team works closely with branches across the UK to identify opportunities, share expertise, and drive sustainable growth together.

The team has been thoughtfully developed as part of FireAngel’s continued investment in providing dedicated, on-the-ground support to its valued wholesaler partners. Regional Account Managers, Beth Christmas, Lewy Fardon and Dan Grimsdell, bring extensive industry knowledge and a hands-on approach, working closely with customers to navigate evolving legislation, optimise stock availability and strengthen their fire safety offering in line with market demand.

FireAngel’s Regional Account Managers provide nationwide support to trade wholesale partners across the UK. The team has been appointed to provide proactive, on-the-ground support, whether wholesalers are looking to expand their product range, improve stock turnover or offer more informed advice to their own customers.

This initiative forms a key part of FireAngel’s wider customer support strategy, focused on delivering proactive, personalised support at every level. The launch also marks a significant step in FireAngel’s continued investment in its field-based sales operations and aligns with the company’s long-term strategy to simplify compliance and make fire safety more accessible across the supply chain.

Johan Keen, National Trade Sales Manager at FireAngel, said: “The formation of our dedicated Wholesaler Support Team reflects our focus on delivering a more hands-on, consultative approach for our valued wholesale partners. We want to ensure all our partners are not only stocking best-selling, regulation-compliant products, but also fully supported in driving growth and profitability to end users.

“Our team is equipped with specialist knowledge of fire and CO safety technologies, including the latest in connected smoke, heat and CO alarms, and will be instrumental in helping trade customers stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.”

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Matt Parton, Product Development Manager with ESP, provides wholesalers with detailed information on the use of CO detectors and where they may be best utilised in fire alarm systems.

One type of detector used in fire detection and fire alarm systems is the carbon monoxide (CO) detector. As all smoke contains elements of incomplete combustion, carbon monoxide will always be present in a fire. This article considers the use of CO detectors and where they may be best utilised.

Fire detection and fire alarm systems utilise a range of detectors to accommodate a variety of fires. However, it is important that the means of detection is suitable for the nature of the fire and that any detector conforms to the appropriate Standard.

Means of operation

There are multiple ways in which carbon monoxide can be detected. The most common method is for electrodes to be immersed in a chemical solution that senses change in current flow when CO is present in dangerous quantities.

A second method involves metal-oxide semiconductor (MOS) sensors whose resistance changes depending on the quantity of CO within the chamber. With such detection a signal is generated and either a sounder operates or the control and indicating equipment (CIE) is triggered to sound an alarm.

A third method of CO detection uses a biomimetic sensor. The sensor contains a gel which changes colour when it absorbs CO. As the colour changes, so an alarm is triggered.

Permitted use

The commentary detailed in Clause 10.1.4 of BS5839-6 shows that carbon monoxide fire detectors are point-type detectors which respond to the carbon monoxide present during incomplete combustion. Such detectors are not equivalent to smoke detectors in their response to fire.

One caveat to the use of CO detectors within fire detection and fire alarm systems is that those conforming to BS EN50291 should not be used in such systems. CO detectors conforming to BS EN50291 are only to be used for detecting the presence of CO potentially found in gas boilers, fires or solid fuel systems. However, this does not preclude them being interconnected with the fire detection and fire alarm system in a dwelling.

CO detectors conforming to BS EN54-26 are permitted for use in Grade A systems conforming to BS5839-6 and to fire detection and fire alarm systems conforming to BS5839-1.

It is often the case that CO detectors are incorporated within multi-sensor heat detectors conforming to BS ISO 7240-8 or BS EN54-30 or multisensory smoke and heat detectors conforming to BS EN54-31.

The benefits associated with CO detectors are that they react more rapidly to fire than heat detectors and are immune to certain environmental factors which may affect smoke detectors, such as dust, steam and cigarette smoke.

Maintenance is a key factor where CO detectors are used. As the most common types utilise a chemical means of detection, it is important that the sensor or detector is changed every seven years.

Installation of CO detectors

In domestic premises, CO detectors/alarms should not be the sole means of fire detection in Grade D1/D2 fire detection and fire alarm systems. Clause 10.2e) of BS5839-6 recommends that CO detectors, and multisensory detectors containing CO detection, are only used for Grade A systems where an annual maintenance regime exists, or where a fault warning is given to indicate the need to replace the electrochemical cell.

Where CO detectors are used within a circulation space, there should be an equal or higher number of smoke detectors within the circulation space (Clause 10.2f)). Furthermore, CO detectors should not be installed in kitchens.

Clause 21 of BS5839-1 details the types of detectors recognised for use within non-domestic premises. Clause 21.2g) details where CO detectors may be reasonably used:

• Any area in which the use of a heat detector would be acceptable, other than those areas where the principal fire hazard comprises flammable liquid resulting in rapid flaming fire.
• Rooms opening onto escape routes in Category L3 systems.
• All escape routes within Category L3 and L4 systems, provided the CO detectors are used in conjunction with smoke detectors.
• Any other area where the fire hazard exists where test evidence shows that CO detectors offer adequate fire protection.

Selection

Care should be taken in the selection and use of CO detectors when used within fire detection and fire alarm systems. CO detectors may be combined with heat and smoke detection in multisensory devices. However, even in non-domestic premises, their use should be limited to those fires which are not rapidly flaming as they best operate where smouldering fires exist.

Whilst the CO detectors used for sensing carbon monoxide created by open fires, gas boilers and the like may be interconnected with a fire detection and fire alarm system in a dwelling (Grade D1 or D2 system), they are not to be used as a means of fire detection.

Safer homes

Launched earlier this year, the Espire range of fire and CO alarms from ESP is a comprehensive range of high performance fire and CO alarm products that has at its core quality, reliability and innovation. Suitable for Grade D1, Grade D2 and Grade F1 installations, the range comprises five alarm types – optical smoke alarms, heat alarms, smoke and heat alarms, CO alarms and CO and heat alarms.

Espire’s CO alarms are engineered to provide early, reliable warnings. They utilise electrochemical sensors that detect even small increases in carbon monoxide levels and provide a pre-alarm visual alert before the full alarm is triggered. The sensors are tested and certified to BS EN50291-1, ensuring adherence to the highest safety standards. The Espire CO alarms are to be installed in accordance with BS EN50292.

Installers can choose from two power options to suit varying project requirements:

• Powered by mains with a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery.
• Powered by a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery.

Each alarm features auto-testing, a 24-hour alarm memory, and RF-link support for system-wide warning capabilities. Whether installed in living areas, bedrooms, or near combustion appliances, Espire CO alarms offer peace of mind with the backing of ESP’s 25+ years of fire and security expertise.

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As the fire safety landscape continues to evolve, electrical wholesalers are in a prime position to lead the way. Here, Geraint Edwards from FireAngel, explains why stocking hybrid fire and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm systems, which combine mains-powered reliability with battery-powered flexibility, enables wholesalers to offer installers future-proof solutions that are easy to install, scalable, and regulation-ready.

Recent Home Office figures reveal that smoke alarms raised the alert in just 47% of dwelling fires in 2024, with nearly a third failing to operate at all, often due to poor positioning, inadequate maintenance, or lack of coverage. These findings reinforce the need for more reliable, interconnected systems that go beyond passive compliance and actively improve safety outcomes.

This growing demand places contractors under increasing pressure to deliver intelligent, whole-home protection that exceeds regulatory minimums. And it’s where wholesalers have a key role to play, by providing access to versatile, future-ready alarm systems that empower installers to meet both evolving standards and practical safety requirements.

Meeting rising demand

The pressure on contractors to deliver beyond basic compliance is intensifying. New legislation, updated guidance, and increasing tenant expectations are all shaping how fire and CO protection is approached across housing sectors, from social and private rentals to homeowner properties. Hybrid alarm systems offer an ideal response, allowing installers to meet best practice standards while keeping installations fast and disruption-free.

By stocking a comprehensive hybrid range, wholesalers can support their customers in fulfilling both current regulations and anticipated future needs. These systems are particularly suited to retrofit applications, where running new cabling is either impractical or too costly. For contractors, hybrid systems offer a flexible, reliable way to interlink alarms without invasive wiring, an increasingly appealing proposition for time-pressed tradespeople.

Simplifying installation

With hybrid networks, mains-powered and battery-operated smoke, heat, and CO alarms can be wirelessly interconnected. When one alarm activates, they all sound, providing full-property alerts that dramatically improve resident safety. For installers, this means simplified system design, easier placement, and no need for trunking or channelling, especially in occupied homes or heritage buildings.

These time-saving benefits are a strong selling point for wholesalers. Offering hybrid alarm solutions can help your trade customers reduce labour time, limit return visits, and handle more jobs with confidence, translating into stronger repeat business for branches.

Tapping into the smart home trend

Consumers are also driving demand for connected safety devices that integrate with broader smart home ecosystems. Hybrid alarm systems that support connected features, like remote monitoring, instant notifications, and maintenance alerts, are increasingly sought after by landlords, property managers, and residents.

For wholesalers, stocking alarms with connected capabilities adds further value to your product offering. These advanced models enable housing providers to receive real-time updates on alarm status, from low batteries and missed tests to tampering or actual alerts, creating opportunities for upselling premium, app-enabled systems.

There is also a growing awareness of the needs of vulnerable occupants, such as elderly residents or those with mobility or cognitive impairments, who may be less able to respond quickly to an isolated alarm. Interlinked, remotely monitored hybrid systems allow family members, carers, or landlords to be alerted instantly if there’s an issue, adding peace of mind and demonstrating the real-world value of these solutions. By highlighting these use cases, wholesalers can show installers how connected technology isn’t just convenient, but life-saving.

The compliance advantage

As the fire safety sector moves towards more proactive and preventative approaches, stocking alarms that help customers maintain compliance is a must. From Scotland’s national requirement for interlinked alarms to emerging guidance in England and Wales, the direction of travel is clear: more connected, comprehensive systems are becoming the standard.

Wholesalers who understand these drivers and can support contractors with the right product selection will be well placed to grow trust and loyalty within their customer base.

A win-win for wholesalers and customers

By offering hybrid alarm systems, wholesalers can support electrical professionals with practical solutions that align with real-world installation challenges and shifting compliance requirements. Hybrid alarms offer the best of both worlds, hardwired robustness and wireless flexibility, and help contractors deliver installations that are safer, smarter, and more future-ready.

Wholesalers who stay ahead of these trends position themselves not just as suppliers, but as knowledgeable partners in fire safety. Stocking the right products, with the right advice, gives installers the confidence to tackle projects of all sizes, driving repeat sales and long-term loyalty.

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Richard Bowler, Editor of Professional Electrician recently sat down with C-Tec’s Marketing Director Andy Green to discuss what installers need to know about the future of fire safety systems.

They also discuss the company’s evolution, the support and training offered to installers, as well as how its manufacturing expertise allows electricians to install with confidence.

Find out more: rdr.link/ctecfiresafetyvid

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Matt Parton, Product Development Manager with ESP, provides wholesalers with an overview of emergency lighting, its importance, the different types and the legislation governing this crucial product category.

Emergency lighting is an essential component of any building’s safety system. It plays a crucial role in guiding occupants to safety during power outages, fires, or other emergency situations. Whether in commercial buildings, industrial facilities or residential properties, emergency lighting provides illumination that can prevent panic, reduce accidents and facilitate safe evacuation.

Emergency lighting systems

There are several types of emergency lighting systems designed to suit different building requirements:

• Emergency escape lighting – illuminates exit paths, doorways and staircases during power failures.
• Standby lighting – provides temporary lighting for normal activities to continue during power outages.
• Open area (anti-panic) lighting – reduces panic by ensuring general visibility in large spaces, enabling safe movement towards escape routes.
• High-risk task area lighting – ensures safety in areas with dangerous equipment or processes.

Regulations and requirements

In the UK, emergency lighting is regulated under several key laws and standards to ensure safety in the event of a power failure. The main regulations and standards that apply include:

Regulatory Framework

• The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO)
  • Requires businesses and building owners to conduct fire risk assessments, which include emergency lighting provisions.
  • Ensures emergency lighting provides adequate illumination for safe evacuation.
• The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996
  • Requires emergency exit signs to be illuminated and visible at all times.
• The Building Regulations 2010 (Part B – Fire Safety)
  • Sets out requirements for emergency lighting in new and modified buildings.
  • Ensures routes and exits are sufficiently illuminated in case of failure.

British Standards for emergency lighting

• BS5266-1:2016 – Code of Practice for Emergency Lighting
  • Provides guidance on design, installation, and maintenance.
  • Covers minimum illuminance levels, locations, and durations.
• BS EN1838:2024 – Lighting Applications: Emergency Lighting
  • Specifies the performance requirements for emergency escape lighting and standby lighting.
• BS7671:2018 (IET Wiring Regulations – 18th Edition)
  • Covers electrical installation requirements, including emergency lighting circuits.

Maintenance and testing requirements

• BS5266-8 / BS EN50172:2004
  • Requires routine inspections and testing, including:
    • Monthly test – Functional test to check illumination.
    • Annual full-duration test – Ensuring the lights stay on for the required period (e.g., one or three hours).

Solutions

There is a wide range of emergency lighting products that wholesalers can stock to meet the needs of customers working across different industries and building types. The essential products comprise:

• Bulkheads – versatile, cost effective lights suitable for multiple applications, including exterior use, as most are IP65 rated.
• Downlights – discreet, low-profile fittings that can be recessed into ceilings, ideal for areas where aesthetics are important.
• Exit signs – illuminated signs that combine directional escape signage with LED lighting, designed to operate for at least three hours during power failures.
• Twin spotlights – powerful LED lamps suitable for illuminating large open or high areas such as warehouses, sports stadiums, and industrial units.
• Self-test emergency lights: Programmed to perform automatic checks on batteries and lamps, providing visual indications of any faults.

The future

The future of emergency lighting holds significant advancements and innovations that will enhance safety, efficiency and sustainability. LED technology will continue to drive improvements in energy efficiency. Future emergency lighting solutions will optimise energy consumption without compromising illumination quality, contributing to more sustainable and eco-friendly lighting systems. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology will enable real-time monitoring and diagnostics of emergency lighting systems. This will allow alerts to be received about potential issues before they become critical, ensuring that systems are always ready to perform when needed.

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Terry Adams, Technical Services Manager at Marshall-Tufflex, outlines how wholesalers can help installers to select the correct cable tray, including considerations such as materials, loading capacities, fire safety requirements and installation methods.

Cable trays are an ideal cable management solution for many applications. In busy commercial environments, cable tray can be used to support and route large quantities of electrical cable in a structured manner. They also provide easy access, allowing cables to be added, removed or re-routed. The perforated construction of cable tray also aids ventilation to help avoid overheating.

There is a wide range of cable tray options available, from smaller, light gauge products ideal for less demanding applications to heavyweight options engineered to support large numbers of cables of increased size and weight. Leading manufacturers will also have an extensive portfolio of components including bends, risers, tee pieces, crosses and lids to meet any installation requirement.

However, there are a number of factors that must be considered to ensure the correct products are selected, especially as this can impact the compliance of the installation with the IET Wiring Regulations.

The right material for the job

The first consideration is the type of cable tray that would be most suitable, and the biggest differentiator is the material. Metal cable tray, typically made from pre-galvanised steel is recommended for interior installations such as data centres, warehouses or commercial retail buildings. Usually available as light, medium or heavy duty gauges, metal cable tray is strong and simple to install. Look for systems that interconnect and bolt together without the need for separate couplers to speed up installation times.

PVC Cable Tray is lightweight and ideally suited for installation into environments where Metal Cable Tray cannot be used due to the corrosive nature of the environment. Suitable applications might be water treatment plants or high humidity environments where a non-corrosive installation is recommended.

For outdoor applications or where the cable management will be exposed to more harsh conditions, Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) may be the most suitable. GRP products are commonly used on rail, road, marine, industrial and petrochemical projects. This is because GRP products are highly resistant to corrosion, are UV resistant and effective at temperatures between -80 degrees and 130 degrees. GRP is also a low smoke zero halogen (LS0H) material, has excellent fire performance and withstands contact with many common chemicals. As well as being extremely robust, GRP is considerably lighter than aluminium or steel, making it easy to install and move around site.

Contractors working on transport projects, may also be looking for a supplier who are RISQS verified. RISQS is an independent qualification assessment of a supplier’s products and services.

Loading capacities

It is essential that the specified cable tray can support the weight of the cables installed, especially where heavier armoured cable is being used. It is often the case that cable management systems are overloaded with cables, increasing the risk of failure. To ensure the right product is chosen, installers should calculate the number and weight of the cables using information from the cable manufacturers. This figure can then be compared to the safe working load of the cable tray, again available from the manufacturer, to determine which product is required. Similarly, when providing advice on the support system, it is important to also account for the weight of the cable tray itself.

If the installation is likely to be expanded in the future with additional cables, it is worth recommending that installers select a product that provides a higher loading capacity than is currently required. This will ensure it is future-proofed and reduce the overall costs for end clients over the long term as the cable management will not need to be upgraded later at additional cost.

Fire safety

The correct choice of cable management system plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety of the building in the event of a fire and ensuring compliance with the requirements of the 18^th Edition of the Wiring Regulations. Where cable management systems fail due to the heat of a fire, the falling and fallen cables present a serious hazard to those evacuating as well as firefighters moving into and through the building. In fact, there have been a number of cases of firefighters losing their lives when they became caught in the cables and unable to escape.

In response to this hazard, Regulation 521.10.202 of the Wiring Regulations states that all cables should be adequately supported using non-combustible fixings to prevent premature collapse in the event of a fire. This means that cables need to be supported using a material with a melting point of 1000°C for up to 120 minutes.

It is important to note that it requires all cables to be fixed to prevent them falling, rather than just those in escape routes, as was stated in earlier editions of the regulations. Providing they are fixed to a fire-resistant element of the building’s fabric, steel cable trays are an ideal solution to meeting this requirement. The 18^th Edition states that: ‘cables installed in or on steel containment systems are deemed to meet the requirements of this regulation’. This is because, depending on the steel’s composition, it has a melting point of between 1200 and 1500°C.

Where products with a lower melting point are used, such as those manufactured from PVC-U or aluminium, the cables must be securely fixed to the structure of the building using fixings that will not disintegrate in fire. BEAMA has produced guidance on this topic which is referenced by the IET Wiring Regulations. In the ‘Prevention of Premature Collapse: A Guide to the Design, Installation and Inspection of Cable Management Systems’ document, BEAMA provides specific guidelines on maximum distances the cables can move in the event of a failure of the containment. Installers should refer to this guidance to ensure the installation is fully compliant.

Those working in wholesaler branches are ideally placed to help installers select products that will meet the requirement of the current project and ensure the installation is fully compliant with the regulations.

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When it comes to life safety solutions, electrical wholesalers play a crucial role in supporting the selection process with the right knowledge. Simon Jones, UK Marketing Manager at Kidde Safety Europe, outlines key considerations for recommending smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms to customers.

Smoke alarms are essential for protecting building occupants, particularly in domestic properties. According to the Home Office, the fire service in England responded to nearly 140,000 fires in the year leading up to March 2024, resulting in 251 deaths and more than 6,000 non-fatal injuries. Unfortunately, in many of these incidents, smoke alarms were either not installed or not functioning. In fact, 24% of dwelling fires attended by the fire service had no smoke alarm, contributing to 34% of all dwelling fatalities.

Similarly, CO alarms are vital for detecting the invisible, odourless, and deadly gas that can emanate from fuel-burning sources such as boilers, cookers and wood-burning fires. Each year in the UK, around 40 people die and more than 4,000 are seriously ill due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Choosing the right products

The reliability of alarms is crucial, and one of the most important factors is the power source to ensure proper performance. Statistics show that in 29% of domestic fires an alarm was present but failed to operate due to issues like missing or defective batteries.

For new properties, mains-powered alarms with battery back-up are required to minimise the risk of failure, as per Part B of the Building Regulations and Section 2 of the Scottish Building Standards. Since 2022, even existing properties in Scotland must have mains-powered alarms. BS5839-6, the code of practice for fire detection and alarm systems in domestic premises, recommends interconnected alarms, ensuring that when one activates, all alarms sound. Radio-frequency (RF) connectivity is a simple and effective way to interlink alarms. Additionally, alarms with a sealed-in battery that lasts the 10-year life of the alarm are recommended for added convenience and reliability.

Wholesalers should also be able to guide customers on the correct number and placement of alarms. While the exact requirements depend on the property size and layout, in England and Wales, smoke alarms are mandatory in all escape route circulation areas. BS5839 Part 6 recommends category LD2, which includes smoke alarms in all escape routes and high-risk areas like living rooms. A heat alarm must also be installed in kitchens. This is compulsory in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

While battery-powered smoke alarms are available for replacing existing units, wholesalers should highlight the benefits of upgrading to mains-powered, interlinked alarms, which offer greater safety and peace of mind.

Special considerations for vulnerable occupants

In higher-risk environments, such as sheltered accommodation for the elderly or disabled, wireless heat and smoke alarms can be linked to output devices like telecare systems, strobes and sounders, providing an enhanced level of safety. These alarms can be connected through relay solutions for added protection.

Carbon monoxide alarms: Legal requirements

CO alarms are mandatory in all new homes in the UK with a fixed combustion appliance or flue, and required in existing homes where such an appliance is installed. In Scotland, CO alarms are compulsory in all homes, including existing properties, and in all rented homes in England and Wales.

Testing and product warranties

Wholesalers should recommend only the highest quality products that comply with relevant standards. Smoke alarms must meet EN14604, heat alarms should comply with BS5446-2, and CO alarms must meet EN50291-1. Ensure that products are tested and certified by an independent, accredited third party, and check that the manufacturer provides proper documentation. Long term manufacturer warranties also demonstrate product quality and offer reassurance to customers.

Technical support

Recommending products from manufacturers that provide strong technical support is essential, particularly for more complex solutions. This ensures that product-related queries are answered quickly and that customers receive guidance on compliant installations. Kidde, with over 100 years of heritage in fire safety, offers dedicated technical product support from a team of specialists.

By equipping themselves with the right information, wholesalers can offer valuable advice and service, helping to drive repeat business and ensure customers’ safety.

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