In this month’s Face to Face we speak with Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric, to find out more about test equipment and its role in improving electrical safety.

How has the Martindale product offering changed over the years?

Electrical safety is fundamental to us at Martindale. We offer a comprehensive range of electrical test equipment where safety is always our core principle. With almost 100 years of history behind us, our products have obviously developed significantly. Taking three lines as examples, in 1968 we patented the ring main tester, now known as a socket tester, these have evolved into valuable diagnostic tools for the electrician. Our core tools for safe isolation are constantly evolving, while our PAT testers have taken portability to a new level.

What are the most popular testers amongst electricians?

We are seeing a significant emphasis on safety within the electrical industry from both industry bodies and manufacturers, particularly focused on the safe isolation process. As a result, we see an increase in demand for products associated with this process – namely voltage indicators and associated proving units, including DC supply proving units for those working with renewables. And of course, most electricians have a socket tester!

Can you tell us about Martindale’s Safe Isolation Campaign?

Safe isolation, and then proving dead, sounds like it should be relatively simple. In a recent survey undertaken across the industry we found over 80% of electrical professionals were familiar with the safe isolation process but only around 55% actively followed the process every time. Our Safe isolation campaign ALIVE focuses on building awareness, highlighting five essential steps, and the importance to always following the process.

Has the expansion of EV charging infrastructure created new testing opportunities for contractors?

Absolutely, the focus on increasing EV infrastructure is creating a significant commercial opportunity for electrical contractors and installers. As EV adoption increases, so too does the requirement for compliant installation, inspection and maintenance of charge points. Where many of the EV test tools are dedicated testers or capable multifunction testers for installation and certification, longer term we see a need for some simpler maintenance and service tools such as the recently introduced BZ820-EV EVSE socket tester.

What can be done to further improve electrical safety in the wider industry?

This is really about education around safety processes such as safe isolation, also making sure that test instruments are used correctly and in the electrical environment for which they were designed and specified to be used in. As a manufacturer, safety is our core focus, and we have just launched our new apprentice and training hub to act as a resource for both existing and new entrants into the electrical industry.

What are Martindale’s aims and objectives for the years ahead?

Martindale is a broad-range supplier of test equipment, from environmental testing such as our legionella test kits, through installation testers to safe isolation tools and beyond. Electrical safety is absolutely paramount to us at Martindale. We will continue to offer the most comprehensive range of safe isolation equipment, championing electrical safety in the workplace through the development, manufacture, and supply of trusted, reliable solutions.

Find out more about Martindale Electric here

Catch up on previous ‘Face to Face’ articles here

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Safe isolation is the cornerstone of electrical safety, and it is a rigorous process, but other hazards can still be present when working on electrical systems, warn Martindale Electric.

One such issue is the injuries caused to engineers, contractors, electricians and other workers coming into contact with unexpectedly live metal parts. This includes items such as metal casings on equipment or appliances, pipework, and other types of metalwork which should be earthed. This invisible danger can be present in any workplace situation ranging from simple domestic systems through to commercial and industrial installations.

Martindale is running a new awareness campaign ‘STOP. No Check. No Contact!’ reminding anyone working on or near electricity not to take any chances with exposed metal parts and to always check first, as they may be live.

“Standard industry-wide safe isolation procedures safely disconnect the supply from the circuit to allow safe rework, maintenance, or installation to take place,” said Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric.

“They do not cover checking for live metal parts though, so incorporating this discipline into established work processes will further minimise risk and help ensure safer working practices. Remember, if the metalwork is not checked for being live don’t touch it:  Stop. No check. No contact!”

By linking the STOP. No Check. No Contact! – message to the many safe isolation products and activities from Martindale the focus is on building awareness around this important safety issue.

Find more industry news here

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Michael Chappell, Product and Marketing Executive at Carl Kammerling International, the home of Kasp Security, discusses why supplying trusted tools is an essential step in helping customers to achieve safe isolation.

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

A thorough and multi staged approach is required when it comes to achieving safe isolation, including the implementation of high electrical standards, adhering to the latest guidance and selecting and maintaining a high standard of electrical equipment to complete the project effectively and safely.

The opportunity for electrical wholesalers is clear; providing a wide choice of tools and devices to support electricians in protecting themselves and others. The supply of this equipment is not only an opportunity to generate sales, but an opportunity to save lives.

Supplying the right tools for the job

Isolating an electrical network involves several important steps, from isolating it the energy source, verifying no voltage is present and the usage of effective lockout devices to prevent the circuit being re-energised until after work is complete – for each step of the process it is vital that effective, trusted tools and equipment are used.

This includes a voltage indicator, with the means to prove it is operational usually with the use of a dedicated proving unit, insulated tools, lockout devices and signage to warn others to avoid disaster should a circuit inadvertently remain live.

With such a wide range of equipment available, the choice of product can often be overwhelming. Lockout devices play one of the most crucial roles in the safe isolation process by preventing the circuit being re-energised until after work is complete by ensuring a circuit breaker remains in a specific on or off position – an important step to ensure the safety of the workforce. There are a number of options available when it comes to lockout devices; some are universal while others are designed to fit specific brands, but by employing a variety of devices, retailers can help users to significantly reduce the risk of injury.

Investing in trusted brands

The old adage ‘the bitterness of poor quality will remain after the sweetness of low cost has been forgotten,’ has never been truer, particularly when it comes to the safe isolation of an electrical network – where inadequate tools can be unsafe and lead to disastrous consequences.

Reliability is key when selecting the right tools to stock so opt for trusted brands and proven products. There are several elements to consider when selecting an effective tool: the R&D process behind it; the source of the materials; the engineering and manufacturing procedures; the quality control and accreditation. Each element undergoes a constant review as new materials, manufacturing techniques, or industry requirements are uncovered, with the effectiveness, durability and safety of the products always front of mind.

Kasp Lockout is a range of essential tools designed specifically to protect electricians and their colleagues from accidents at work through safe isolation. The range safeguards against a sudden release of energy, locking off energy sources using padlocks and physical security devices.

Easifit MCB Lockout

This universal mini circuit breaker isolates single, double, and triple switches. It is easy to install using 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.

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.

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 60A. It’s easy to use and contains both the Easifit MCB Lockout and the Pin Out Wide Lockout. 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.

In the world of electrical work, the importance of the safe isolation of the electrical network cannot be underestimated and wholesalers who offer good quality, reliable tools will stand apart from the rest.

Find out more here

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“Electrical Safety at Work: Safe Isolation” is the new short form catalogue from Martindale Electric. The 44-page catalogue contains a complete range of products specifically designed for executing safe isolation procedures.

Implementing safe isolation is essential to achieve compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations, which are there to ensure that workers on site are not exposed to danger when working on or near live electrical systems. The new Martindale catalogue helps you select the right tools for the job, featuring the key components critical to implementing an effective procedure to stay safe during the installation and maintenance of electrical plant and equipment.

From an individual electrician working on a domestic installation through to a maintenance team working on an industrial site, Martindale offers solutions with a wide portfolio of safety products available either as individual items or within a handy kit. The range includes lock off devices and warning signs, proving units, voltage indicators/testers and many accessories, all detailed in the catalogue.

Industry-focused kits are also included, designed to contain everything needed for specific customer safety requirements. These include kits for general electrical work, utility applications, domestic installation or to enable gas service engineers to securely lock off circuits.

The new catalogue can be downloaded 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.

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