ECA Blog

ECA becomes a Living Wage employer

ECA is now accredited as a Real Living Wage Employer. We are proud to be part of this important movement, which aims to ensure that a good day’s work leads to a fair day’s pay.

Disturbing complacency

With phase two of the Grenfell inquiry report now underway, ECA's Andrew Eldred shares his thoughts on what has, or has not, been accomplished so far...

3 ways to stop tools thieves in their tracks

Vicki Leslie looks at three ways you can prevent tool theft - an increasingly important issue for tradespeople - and how specialist insurance from Covermytools can help...

Zero Carbon by 2050: pipe dream or possibility?

Despite the political tumult this year, the UK Government has committed to pursuing a ‘Net Zero’ carbon economy by 2050. May’s influential Committee on Climate Change report pointed the way to achieving this across a range of areas of the economy.

The SME’s (updated) guide to Brexit

With only 34 days to go until Brexit, the number of procedural changes business owners must keep up with can appear daunting.

Today’s blog should serve to identify some key issues for SMEs to be aware of, and some immediate actions to take.

Play powerLottery and give industry colleagues a better tomorrow

EIC's Tessa Ogle shares Alison and Mark's story. When the couple fell on hard times, the charity stepped in to help. But this would not have been possible without industry colleagues taking part in EIC's powerLottery...

ECA welcomes 1st Amendment to 18th Edition

The IET has just announced that the first amendment to the Wiring Regulations BS 7671:2018 (18th Edition) will be released in early 2020, with a specific focus on the requirements of Electric vehicle (EV) charging installations. 

Refresh your 18th Edition knowledge this bank holiday

As demand for electrical work is expected to surge this weekend, refresh your knowledge of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations with ECA's Gary Parker... 

Do the maths: consider a career in the electrotechnical industry

With a career in electrical engineering, design or installation there’s a whole world of opportunities right on your doorstep. It all starts with an electrotechnical apprenticeship...

Levelling the playing field

ECA's Director of Legal and Business Rob Driscoll explains different types of contract, and what to look out for to make sure SMEs get a fair deal... 

Changing lives with the Practical Participation Programme

EIC's Tessa Ogle shares more information about the Practical Participation Programme, which allows individuals and companies to provide services and materials on a voluntary basis.

Progress on poor payment practices

Thanks to the continued efforts of ECA and partners, several measures have recently been put in place by the Government to help combat poor payment practices in our sector. ECA's Rob Driscoll explains... 

A helping hand in tough times

Electrical engineer Scott's family was devastated by his cancer diagnosis. EIC stepped in to help provide much needed support. EIC's Tessa Ogle shares his story in this week's ECA blog. Learn how you can help too with EIC's powerLottery.

Higher penalties for employers breaching workers' rights

ECA's Orazio Amantia follows up our last blog on the Good Work Plan, and explains some of the new proposals being put forward... 

VAT hike puts brakes on home solar and batteries

Luke Osborne examines HMRC's latest move to increase VAT on home solar and battery installations, which appears to contradict the outgoing PM's recent commitment to 'Net Zero' carbon by 2050...

Celebrating women in engineering

This Sunday (23 June) is International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2019. In this post from the Women's Engineering Society (WES), learn about the remarkable achievements of women in our industry over the last century... 

The Real Deal (At Last)?

Andrew Eldred re-examines the CLC report which was issued almost a year ago, alongside the Future Skills report which was issued earlier this month... 

A zero carbon UK by 2050?

Paul Reeve examines the implications for the built environment of the Government’s announcement that it will pursue a legally binding target of zero net carbon emissions by 2050.

Enter Power Players in three easy steps!

Power Players is back! If you or someone you know has achieved something remarkable in their career, enter for the chance to win industry-wide recognition and fantastic prizes. Entering is as easy as 1, 2, 3...

CAS answers an expensive problem for industry

Paul Reeve examines the new set of pre-qualification questions (PQQs) which should cut wasted time and cost in construction…

A helping hand in tough times

The Electrical Industries Charity's Tessa Ogle shares the story of an industry colleague who, through the help of the EIC and their Employee Assistance Programme, was able to get back on her feet after a relatioinship breakdown.

2018 Apprentice of the Year Jack Teasdale on his year so far

Since winning the ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year Award in September 2018, Jack Teasdale of Opus Building Services Ltd has seen his career go from strength to strength. Read on for his thoughts on his year so far...

Supporting tomorrow's technicians

Learn about the Electrical Industries Charity's Apprentice Support Programme (ASP), which was set up to help apprentices get through tough times. Through the EIC powerLottery, you can show your support for the programme for just £1 a month.

Skills for the future

Andrew Eldred analyses the results of an important skills survey that could shape the way we teach our technicians…

For a more electrified, digital and green society

Giorgia Concas, Secretary General of the AIE (of which ECA is an active member) shares her call to future EU decision makers to move towards a more electrified, digital and green society...

Employment status: a concise guide

ECA's Senior Employee Relations Advisor Orazio Amantia looks at how and why the UK Government are cracking down on workers' employment status, and what it may mean for ECA members. 

Finding Elliott’s feet

Tessa Ogle of the EIC shares the story of electrical industry colleague Dean, his wife Amy, and their five-year-old son Elliott, who suffered complications during a premature birth. Learn how EIC helped get this family back on their feet and looking forward to a brighter future. 

Good Work Plan promises clearer contracts, fairer rules

The Government published a raft of proposals in December 2018 for taking forward the majority of the Taylor Report’s recommendations in its ‘Good Work Plan’.  The proposals include changes in legislation as well and raising awareness of existing rights.

Brexit means Brexit?

ECA's Rob Driscoll reflects on the Brexit Briefing which ECA hosted for members this week

Help the elderly in need with powerLottery

Tessa Ogle shares worrying findings of a survey by Age UK, and how to support retired colleagues in need through EIC's powerLottery app.

The UK’s low carbon future is increasingly electric…

Paul Reeve looks at how smarter systems, decarbonised transport and better efficiency are accelerating the UK's move to a low-to-no-carbon economy.

Maintaining standards through Brexit and beyond

Richard Forrest Smith looks at the challenges facing the construction industry, and how they could be exacerbated post-Brexit.

Work at height: a checklist for managers

Work at height is still one of the biggest safety hazards in our industry. HSE’s hierarchy can help, writes Paul Reeve...

ESF’s Top Electrical Safety Tips for Home Renovation

Our colleagues at Electrical Safety First share some tips on home renovation, to help give you the confidence to make a fresh start safely in 2019. This blog was originally posted on the Electrical Safety First website.

In dark times, we all need a shoulder to lean on

EIC's Tessa Ogle shares the story of industry colleague Andrew, who needed help and support after the tragic loss of his wife during the birth of their daughter. With just £1 a month, you could help support colleagues like Andrew when they need it most. 

Government announces solar export plans

The Government has announced plans for a ‘Smart Export Guarantee’, which will compensate small-scale energy producers for any power they sell back to the grid. ECA's energy advisor Luke Osborne says the plan is a step in the right direction.

Start the year with the 18th Edition

ECA Technical Director Steve Martin revisits the most imporant changes in the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations, first published in July 2018 and now in full effect.

Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year from ECA!

In our final blog post of 2018, Paul Reeve reflects on the events and achievements of the past year, and looks ahead to 2019 and what it may bring.

Formula E drives electric vehicle market forward

Earlier this year, Mike Giles visited Italy to attend the Rome e-Prix and find out more about the ambitions of Formula E, one of the fastest-growing racing sports in the world.

Money back towards healthcare costs? Sounds like a (cash) plan

Vicki Leslie looks at the Cash Plan available from ECIS and how it can help with everyday healthcare costs such as the physio, dentist or optician.

Some great progress, but we must be clear what we mean by ‘mental health’

Paul Reeve looks at the key initiatives set up to tackle the shocking state of mental health within the construction industry.

Power Players return from US study tour

2017 Power Players winners Charlie Harwood and Joe Wu recently returned from their study tour in the USA. In this blog, Joe sums up his experience and shares a glimpse of how the electrotechnical industry works across the pond...

Could you help a colleague in need?

Tessa Ogle shares Rhys' story of depression, addiction, and the life-changing help he received that set him on the road to recovery and a prosperous electrical career.

2019: the year of occupational health assessment?

A step change in occupational health surveillance is on the horizon, and two big drivers behind it are stakeholder involvement and standardisation, writes Paul Reeve.

Takeaways from the Budget

Rob Driscoll examines reactions to this year's Budget, and and how it lines up with ECA targets.

Bringing more young people into engineering

Earlier this month, busloads of Welsh teenagers descended on Cardiff’s Motorpoint Arena for Skills Cymru. Michelle Davies explains...

The gift of independence

Life can throw out challenges when we least expect them. These can place significant pressure on some families’ lives – potentially leading to deterioration in mental health. However, as an industry, we have the power to help our colleagues and prevent mental health problems from spiralling out of control, writes Tessa Ogle.

ECA influences Government decision on five day SME payment

Rob Driscoll explains ECA's role in Government's recent decision to commit to paying 90 per cent of undisputed invoices from small and medium sized businsses within five days.

The future starts next week!

UK Construction Week is just around the corner, beginning Tuesday October 9th. In this week's blog post, catch a glimpse of what's in store at the ECA stand and the Building Tech Live Theatre, jointly hosted by ECA and Voltimum...

Managing fatigue

The way managers and supervisors deal with and respond to staff will influence whether they find out about fatigue before, or after, an incident or serious mistake. Paul WIlliams looks at some key considerations.

Diversity: a real life perspective

In his last blog, Rob Driscoll looked at the importance of ensuring diversity, respect and inclusion in the workplace. Here, he offers a more personal perspective on these topics…

Make a wish come true with £1

Every year, hundreds of people within the electrotechnical industry do something incredible. With just £1, they help the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) to provide vital assistance to people in the industry facing tough times.

Stiff competition for 'Apprentice of the Year' title

After a rigorous interview process, the 2018 ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year Award judging panel has selected the three finalists for this year's competition...

The way back to trust

To improve commercial behaviour and ethics in the wake of Carillion, Rob Driscoll argues that we need to build a diverse, vibrant marketplace of different suppliers.

10 minutes with... Paul Uppal, Small Business Commissioner

We spent 10 minutes with Small Business Commissioner Paul Uppal, and discussed payment in the construction sector, the biggest issues facing SMEs, and more.

Challenge the stigma of mental health

Tessa Ogle, CEO of the Electrical Industries Charity, urges the industry to act on reducing the stigma of mental health in the electrical sector and highlights how early intervention can help to save the lives of thousands of colleagues who are currently suffering from mental health problems in silence.

Waiting for GP referrals? Direct access services could help

Waiting for a medical appointment can exacerbate an injury and have further knock-on effects. Vicki Leslie of ECIS explains how private medical insurance ensured she was quickly on the route to recovery from ligament damage - keeping her dream holiday alive in the process...

Don't fall victim to counterfeit electrical goods online

Some of the most popular e-commerce sites are being misused by ruthless sellers as a platform to exploit online shoppers, exposing them to thousands of substandard, counterfeit and suspected recalled electrical goods. Phil Buckle shares the findings of recent research carried out by Electrical Safety First.

The power of practical support

The Electrical Industries Charity has launched the Employee Assistance Programme, of which the Practical Participation Programme is a key part. In her latest blog post, Tessa Ogle explains the main aspects of the Programme, and how to get involved.

Electrification by design

In December 2017, BEAMA published a report, Electrification by Design, exploring policy and market mechanisms to promote deployment of low-carbon electric systems. This summer, a series of more detailed reports were designed to provide more detail - learn more about these in Chris Pack's blog.

“If you’re committed, then go for it...”

Sixteen-year-old Katie Harvey, from Oxford, left school after her GCSEs to start her career as an electrician with local firm Darke and Taylor. Eager to inspire other young women looking to start a career in the engineering sector, Katie’s career is quickly moving from strength to strength – all thanks to her decision to pursue an apprenticeship.

Put your company centre stage at powerBall 2018

The Electrical industries Chairty's annual powerBall offers a great chance to network and meet industry partners and potantial clients, as well as raise funds for worthy industry causes. Learn more about the Ball and how to book your place in Tessa's laetst blog post.

Grenfell: one year on

On the first anniversary of the Grenfell Tower disaster, Andrew Eldred looks at the fundamental issues surrounding skills and competence that have dominated discussion since the tragedy, as well as the immediate steps Governemnt can take to help raise standards.

The red flags along the road to Carillion's collapse

In the second of his two-part blog, Rob Driscoll examines how the Government and wider industry reacted to Carillion's collapse, and the warning signs that appeared in the years leading up to it.

The construction industry must unify its approach to help tackle ill health in the workplace

Margaret Grahamslaw, Head of Occupational Health at B&CE, reflects that the wider construction industry must unify its approach if the sector is serious about improving occupational health in the workplace.

Carillion: time for Government to save construction from itself?

In the first of a two-part blog, Rob Driscoll dissects the fallout of the Carillion collapse, nearly six months on. 

Time to invest in our leaders of tomorrow

Recent figures show that, while apprentices are essential to businesses and their growth, they still lack support in several areas. Tessa Ogle looks at the importance of a solid support network in developing tomorrow's leaders.

An apprenticeship can take you far

For over 40 years, the ECA Edmundson Award has showcased the best talent in the industry. Entries are open once again to ECA members, to award the next Apprentice of the Year in 2018. 

What can we do to be more cyber-secure?

ECA Director of Technical Steve Martin looks at the growing issue of cybersecurity in the electrotechnical industry, and the measures we can all take to make sure our data, and our clients' data, is safe.

Prostate checks are not always invasive – so what’s stopping you?

Vicki Leslie of ECIS discusses the importance of checks for prostate cancer.

How to undertake an effective risk assessment

ECA Director of Business Paul Reeve details the most important factors to consider when undertaking a risk assessment. Learn more about how to effectively navigate some of the biggest health and safety issues defining today's industry.

Have the ‘Time of Your Life’ at powerBall 2018

The leading industry event, powerBall 2018, is back for another unforgettable night. This year we are all heading back to 1963 and the famous Kellerman’s resort where Baby’s life changed forever… 

Where my apprenticeship took me

ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year 2017 Jordan Bancroft talks about his study tour in France with leading manufacturer Legrand, and shares his ideas about how to promote apprenticeships to industry newcomers.

Big Build raises the roof for the Dickinson family

The Electrical Industries Charity has launched a Big Build project to purchase and renovate a house for the Dickinson family. MD Tessa Ogle explains the project and how businesses can get involved.

I want to become a Chartered Engineer

The second of a two part blog series looking at how electrotechnical apprenticeships shaped the careers of representatives of ECA. In this interview, ECA Edmundson Apprentice of Year 2016/17 Harry Bartle explains to Voltimum his ambition to become a Chartered Engineer by the age of 28.

The Carillion crisis must lead to reform

The recent collapse of Carillion must lead to full scale construction industry reform, argues ECA Director of Business Paul Reeve

An apprenticeship opened many doors for me

The first in a two part blog series looking at how electrotechnical apprenticeships have shaped the careers of representatives of ECA. In this piece, ECA President Mike Smith explains why undertaking an electrical apprenticeship 'opened many doors' for him.

Fixing construction's broken employment system

The construction industry's employment system is broken, and the upcoming 'sector deal' would be an ideal opportunity to fix it, argues ECA Director of Employment and Skills Andrew Eldred

We need to talk more about mental health problems

Tessa Ogle, Managing Director of the Electrical Industries Charity, discusses how the charity's Employee Assistance Programme is making a difference to those suffering mental health challenges

Brexit and the impact on employment rules and skills shortages

Andrew Eldred discusses the impact of Brexit on employment legislation and skills shortages, and aspirations for improvements in a number of areas.

No more hand waving on fire and electrical safety in shared accommodation

Steve Martin of ECA and FSA responds to the review of Building Regulations.  

Time for a pragmatic view of UK health and safety law

The UK has an envious record of ensuring health and safety at work compared to many other countries. ECA Director of Business Paul Reeve assesses the impact of Brexit on future H&S policy-making.

My year as an ECA ambassador

Harry Bartle has held the role of ‘Apprenticeship Ambassador’ for the ECA over the last 12 months.  Here he shares his experience.

Changing the lives of those in need

The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) is urging the industry to join its Practical Participation Programme and volunteer their time, products and skills to help transform the lives of those in need.

What’s on at ED&I this week?

The inaugural ED&I Expo is taking place this week at the NEC, Birmingham.  As well as bringing a show floor bursting with expertise and innovative new products and services, there will be opportunities to network with industry leaders and learn from inspiring seminars and demos.

Avoiding close shaves with airborne hazards

Wise words on RPE from Phil Bates, ECA Health & Safety Manager

eRAMS now available to all contractors

eRAMS is a very practical web-based system for producing concise risk assessments (RAs), method statements (MSs) and construction phase plans (CPPs). For the last two years, it has been available free to ECA members, and member experience and feedback has been essential in helping us to bring the product to market, via CHAS, our commercial partner.

5 reasons to attend the upcoming ED&I Expo

The ED&I Expo will take place at the NEC in Birmingham on 6 – 7 September this year.  The show will have a strong focus on the key areas set to shape the future of the industry, offering valuable insights into factors that will help grow your business, boost profits and improve productivity.  Here are the five top reasons why the show should be a highlight in your diary:

An apprentice abroad

Harry Bartle, the current ECA Edmundson Apprenticeship Ambassador, recently had the chance to visit Schneider Electric’s electrical plants in Grenoble, France. Here are the highlights of his trip.

Government and our sector must work together for smart energy transition

The government has released its July publication of ‘Upgrading our Energy System – Smart Systems and Flexibility Plan’.  Paul Reeve, ECA Director of business services guides us through this smart, distributed energy plan.

Energy efficiency and the 18th edition

Set to be included for the first time, energy efficiency is expected to be one of the biggest changes within the new 18th edition of the Wiring Regulations.  ECA's Head of Technical Steve Martin takes us through the implications of these changes.  

It’s time for a rethink on deregulation post Grenfell

The ECA has considered its response to the Grenfell Tower fire very carefully.  ECA Director of Business Paul Reeve outlines actions the ECA will be taking following on from the disaster.  

10 Minutes With... Tessa Ogle

In this new regular ECA Today feature, we will be talking to a leading or inspirational figure about their views on some of the key issues facing our sector. In this first interview, the ECA finds out more about Electrical Industries Charity Managing Director and mountaineering enthusiast Tessa Ogle

How to enter Power Players in three easy steps

As the deadline for Power Players entries approaches, Mike Giles provides a three-step guide to getting any last minute applications in.

Driving professionalism across the industry

Steve Brawley, chief executive of the Joint Industry Board, looks at the plans underway to enhance professionalism and standards across the industry…

The way ahead

New ECA President Mike Smith, the 103rd president of the ECA, is Estimating and Sector Director at SES Engineering Services. Here he outlines the agenda for the year ahead

Filling the void

David Kitchener, managing director at All Things Media, explains how he spotted a gap in the electrical industry’s event calendar, and tells us why the ED&I Expo is primed to fill it

A Cinderella Story

Regulations around electrical safety in rented homes have, until recently, been something of a Cinderella story.  Phil Buckle, chief executive of leading safety charity Electrical Safety First, gives an update on how the charity has led the charge for change - and why there are still differences across the UK

The search for 2017's Power Players continues!

With our search for the first Power Players underway, Steve Bratt has the details

The duty of care to subcontractors

Ian Hollingworth, Head of Claims at ECIC highlights the responsibilities that contractors have to their sub-contractors and employees

5 reasons why you should attend Smart Tech Live 2017

Following the success of last year’s inaugural seminar, Smart Tech Live 2017 is returning with two events in London and York. Eddie Embleton, Managing Director of Voltimum UK and Ireland tells us why it will be a well worth a day off the tools.

CSR is moving up the business agenda

ECA's Director of Business Paul Reeve highlights the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the opportunities it presents

The EIC's Apprenticeship Support Programme

The Electrical Industries Charity's Tessa Ogle on their support network for young talent in the electrical industry.

New electrical industry charity initiative

With the hugely successful Mount Kilimanjaro challenge behind us, Tessa Ogle of the EIC, gives a first look at this year's challenge and the story behind it...

Product Know how: How to avoid non-compliant pitfalls

BEAMA's Simon Harpin advises on how to ensure that you are using compliant products

Wiring Regulations 18th Edition: What we know so far...

ECA’s Head of Specialist Groups, Steve Martin, has the low down

Why comply with health and safety regulations?

ECA CEO Steve Bratt states some compelling business drivers behind health and safety compliance

Launch of the Fire, Emergency and Security Systems Apprenticeship

Chairman of the Fire and Security Association (FSA), Pat Allen, gives an update on the development of the industry's apprenticeship

Leading industry event starting to take shape

Farhaan Mirza, ECA Head of Marketing has the latest on the greatly anticipated ED&I Expo

Climbing Kilimanjaro

Ever wondered what it would be like to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? Mike Smith can answer that.. 

Review of the Building Services Summit

The ECA’s Acting Head of Technical Steve Martin reviews the Building Services Summit, held in London in November 2016.

How do we create a more diverse workforce?

Alex Meikle explains how a lack of diversity is threatening the electrotechnical industry

Into 2017: Smarter buildings, infrastructure and energy

Generating renewable electricity is no longer the question in search of an answer. Paul Reeve talks energy distrubtion, storage and use 

We're off!

A few final words of thanks before the big climb

New payment reporting rules set to improve transparency

SEC Group CEO and Barrister, Professor Rudi Klein, considers recent legislation that is likely to have an impact in 2017 on payment periods in the UK

Survey finds buildings at risk from cyber attack

Steve Martin discusses recent 'Connected Technology Survey for Clients' results 

The final test run

As the date of the Kilimanjaro climb draws closer, Mike and his climbing partner Andy have managed to fit in a final practice climb...

New Year message from the ECA

Steve Bratt, ECA CEO

Another month, another mountain...

Mike trials a new gadget in preparation for the big climb

Mike Smith, ECA Senior Vice President

Time to look beyond Brexit

ECA President David Kieft looks back over 2016 and forward to 2017

David Kieft, ECA President

Powering future infrastructure

ECA CEO Steve Bratt looks at the future of energy infrastructure

More from the mountains

Conditions take a turn for the worse during the third 'Mountain a month' challenge

Mike Smith, ECA Senior Vice President

Mount Kilimanjaro training continues

Mike has set himself the challenge of climing a mountain a month in the run up to his Mt Kilimanjaro fundraiser climb in February 2017.

Mike Smith, ECA Senior Vice President

Electrical contractors see opportunities in Brexit

ECA CEO, Steve Bratt discusses the results of our recent Brexit Survey 

Climbing Africa's Largest Mountain for Charity

Mike Smith, ECA Senior Vice President