A Positive
Approach to Safety
ANNUAL REPORT 2011-12
a positive approach to safety
2
Introduction
Electricity is an essential part of modern life and
we are relying on it more than ever before. This
greater reliance causes increased exposure to
electrical accidents and hazards if we don’t take
the necessary steps to ensure that our electrics
can cope with the increased demand.
CONTENTS
3Introduction
4 Chairman’s message
5 Director General’s review
6 About us
7 Our people
8 Building the evidence base
10 Safer electrical installations
17 Improving product safety
19 Product screening and investigations
20 Providing direct support and grants
23 Raising awareness
25 Finance report
Research by the Electrical Safety Council has shown that millions of people
are exposing themselves to potentially fatal accidents in the home through
simple electrical blunders because of an alarming lack of knowledge about
the real danger of electricity.
Every year in UK homes, about 70 people die and 350,000 are seriously injured
from electrical accidents. Electrical fires account for almost half of accidental
house fires - over 21,000 a year, and 2.5 million British adults say they have
experienced an electric shock at home. At the same time, over half of British
homes still do not have adequate RCD (residual current device) protection.
This report provides a summary of the Electrical Safety Council’s progress
towards keeping people safe from the dangers that electricity can create
and financial accounts for 2011-12. It looks at the work and impact of the
Charity during the year and sets out its strategic priorities and commitments
for 2012-13.
28 Summary group financial statements 2011-12
29Governance
30 Committees and councils
31 Principal places of business
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
3
Chairman’s Message
As I write, I have reached the
mid-point of my time as Chair of
the Electrical Safety Council and it
gives me the opportunity to reflect
on what has been a busy year.
It’s no secret that we are all operating in tough
economic conditions and this has meant that
there has had to be close attention paid to the
operating costs of both the Charity and its
trading subsidiary, Ascertiva. It was
encouraging to note that despite the
economic challenges Ascertiva has continued
to provide consistent gift aid to the Charity to
enable it to tackle the issues related to electrical
There have also been leadership changes in
the Ascertiva team and I would like to put on
record my thanks, and that of the Trustees, to
Jim Speirs who has retired from Ascertiva. Jim
more latterly was the Executive Chairman of
Ascertiva but until May 2009 was Director
General of what was then NICEIC and it is
his vision and leadership that has helped
position the ESC Group as an authority for
quality and safety.
Looking to the future I’m confident that
under the leadership of Phil Buckle, Director
General of the ESC and Emma Clancy, CEO
of Ascertiva, even greater excellence will
be achieved across all our activities.
For a Charity with a relatively small number of Trustees
and staff I feel we punch above our weight. However this
does, at times, impose demands on those who are active
in implementing the strategy that was developed in 2010.
safety, such as raising awareness among
consumers and influencing standards in
the electrical contracting industry.
The need to ensure the long-term financial
sustainability of the Group, and to reduce the
risks to which the Charity is exposed has meant
that the Trustees have had to make some
difficult decisions, one of these being
consultation with the staff on the possible
closure of the ESC’s final salary pension scheme
to future accrual. Following consultation, it was
decided that the pension scheme would have
to close. Steps are now underway to ensure
members of the final salary scheme will be
provided with an alternative pension provision.
4
On a final note I would like to thank Bill
Wright for his hard work during his time as
Chairman of the ESC and thanks must go to
all of the Trustees for the work that they do
to help make the ESC such a success.
+185m
Reached with consumer
media coverage
322,731
unique visitors to the
esc website
www.esc.org.uk
C J Tanswell
Director General’s Review
the Select Committee recommended that
the scope of Part P should not be altered
given the ensuing safety implications.
Nevertheless, the ESC stands ready to assist
government in whatever way possible to
ensure that Part P remains relevant and fit
for purpose whilst raising awareness among
householders of its importance.
2011-12 was a very interesting
year for the Charity. I believe
we have been able to navigate
both the political and economic
challenges in a way which allows
us to keep our focus on delivering
public benefit.
Probably the biggest issue that we faced was
the continuing threat to Part P of the Building
Regulations, the only legal framework that
covers householders in England who are
having electrical installation work done
in their homes. Whilst this did provide us
with a major challenge, it also offered an
opportunity to gain the support of the
industry and like-minded organisations
to make the case to government for the
maintenance of this important regulation.
Even as the Department for Communities and
Local Government (DCLG) was consulting on
the future of Part P, we were pleased to give
both written and oral evidence to the CLG
Select Committee inquiry into the Building
Regulations. It was encouraging to note that
The Charity welcomed the consultation
on the launch of a Tenant Information
Pack in Scotland as a means of raising
standards in the Private Rented Sector
(PRS). And in Wales, we have started
discussions with key Assembly Members
and relevant stakeholders with a view
to ensuring that electrical safety is given
adequate attention as they craft new bills
and regulations as part of their devolved
authority for building regulations.
Looking back at the last twelve months,
the Charity has been able to enhance its
presence in the consumer market with
more people becoming aware of the ESC
as a source of electrical safety advice. We
were able to achieve this through sustained
media activity and events, while making the
best use of digital communications and we
will continue to build on these gains in the
coming year.
As the Charity continues to build
meaningful partnerships I was pleased
that we held our inaugural stakeholder
event in November, which brought our key
stakeholders together to look at how we
can work even more effectively to deliver
positive outcomes to our beneficiaries. The
ESC also hosted its second Product Safety
conference which focussed on market
surveillance. The Product Safety Unit will be
taking forward the recommendations from
this event.
These are just some of the highlights of last
year and the Charity will maintain its focus
on enhancing its operational efficiencies
in the challenging economic climate. It is
therefore important to express gratitude
to the management and staff of Ascertiva
– our trading subsidiary - for their tenacity
in delivering the gift aid to the Charity so
it may achieve its business objectives. The
management and staff of the ESC have been
very supportive and are committed to the
vision of the ESC and I thank them for their
continued support.
I would also like to thank the Trustees who
continue to support the work of the Charity
through effective governance.
As we know, much more
needs to be done to raise the
standard of housing especially
in the private rented sector.
As we look to 2012-13, the ESC is cognisant
of the challenges and opportunities that lie
ahead. Navigating the political landscape will
continue to occupy our minds and we do so
knowing that we are committed to achieving
the best possible outcome for every user of
electricity, especially vulnerable people.
Phil Buckle
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
5
About Us
Our Core Values
The Electrical Safety Council (ESC) exists to help people protect
themselves and their families from faulty, damaged, substandard
and poorly maintained electrical installations and products.
We are widely respected as a leading campaigning charity and technical
authority by government, industry, public sector services and local
authorities, amongst others.
Our Vision
Is for everyone to be safe from the dangers that electricity can create.
Our Mission
Is to help prevent deaths, injuries and damage caused by electricity by working in partnership
with industry, government and others to help reduce the greatest risks.
Strategic Priorities
The Electrical Safety Council’s business plan
has been updated to focus on six strategic
areas over the next five years (2011-16).
Raising Awareness
The Charity will promote and strengthen its
brand to build its reputation and credibility
with key stakeholders and the public to
achieve greater awareness of electrical safety.
Our People
The Charity offers its staff a positive working
environment, where continuous learning and
development is central to the strategic direction.
Safer Places
The Charity seeks to influence landlords and
homeowners to upgrade their electrical
installations (including the installation and use
of RCDs) and to carry out regular checks on the
condition of installations and appliances.
6
It also represents the electrical safety interests
of consumers, engaging with government on
proposed changes to the Building Regulations
and legislation in the British Isles and will
help ensure that technological advances
integrating renewable sources into the UK
electricity supply system and the emergence
of other carbon-saving technologies do not
compromise the safety of people and places.
Safer Appliances
Working with key stakeholders, the Charity
promotes innovative safety design, influences
consumer behaviour for buying safer products
and avoiding the misuse of electrical products
and tackles the issue of counterfeit and
substandard products.
Income Streams
The Charity will continue to exercise financial
prudence whilst seeking to diversify its
income streams.
Research
The Charity will commission independent
research and impact evaluation and support
relevant research to further the objective of
public safety.
Knowledgeable
We draw on a wealth of technical and
campaigning experience and a robust
evidence base.
Influential
We apply our authority and expertise to
achieve measurable and positive change.
Impartial
We are equitable and inclusive in our
relationships with industry and others to
improve safety.
Helpful
We are approachable and ready to provide
the guidance and leadership expected of us.
Absence
The number of days lost through
sickness absence is significantly
lower than the national average
of 7.7 days per annum
Average days absent (sickness)
per employee
End financial year No days absent
2009-10 7.25 days
2010-11 5.33 days
2011-12 6.5 days
(Source: CIPD survey 2011)
Our People
ESC employee length of service as at
31st March 2012
The Electrical Safety Council (ESC) aims to have good, ethical
employment practices. The policies for recruitment, training and
career development promote equality of opportunity and give all
employees the chance to develop their skills and abilities.
During the last year, the ESC reviewed its
structure to make sure that it was robust
enough to support the achievement of the
Charity’s ambitious strategy and to increase
operational efficiency.
Throughout the financial year, headcount
has remained stable. The staff turnover
rate for the ESC was 16%, higher than
the national average of 12.5% due to
redundancies resulting from the restructure.
Due to the technical expertise of a number
of roles, it is vital to identify successors,
should employees with key skills leave
the organisation. So, the Charity’s
succession plan is frequently reviewed
and opportunities to share and develop
knowledge across the Group are explored
throughout the year.
The ESC continues to hold Investors in
People (IIP) status, a quality standard that
shows its commitment to building the
capacity of its people as a key component
of the organisation’s business practices.
Staff feedback is requested and listened
to through the annual staff climate survey.
0 - 1 YEAR
13%
1 - 4 YEARS
32%
5 - 9 YEARS
27%
10 - 14 YEARS
17%
15 - 19 YEARS
9%
20 YEARS +
2%
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
7
Building
the Evidence Base
The Electrical Safety Council maintains a
robust evidence base to make sure that its
campaigning and technical activities are
appropriately targeted. During 2011-12 the
Charity surveyed landlords, tenants and
homeowners and conducted focus groups
to support the year’s media activity. The
Charity also ran its third annual consumer
survey to measure attitudes towards
electrical safety.
Landlords and Tenants
Research carried out by Populus highlighted the confusion
between landlords and their tenants over who holds
responsibility for electrical safety in rented homes:
8
Outdoor Blunders
In the summer, the Electrical Safety Council
issued advice to people planning outdoor parties,
using a YouGov survey to highlight complacency
towards electrical safety, including:
66%
66% of hosts using electrical
equipment did not use RCD
protection to ensure the
safety of their guests
31%
Just 31% checked plugs
and leads for signs
of damage before use
31%
31% of people ensured their
outdoor power sockets
were not exposed to wet
weather or water
75%
75% of private tenants could
not recall discussing electrical
safety with their landlords
29%
29% of landlords and 40% of
tenants did not know who
is responsible for electrical
safety in rented homes
21%
21% of private tenants expressed
concern at the standard of
electrical safety in their home
Annual Consumer Survey
Every year the Electrical Safety Council carries out a survey to assess the Charity’s progress in raising consumer awareness and changing
behaviour as well as identifying the barriers and motivators for taking action. This then guides the Charity’s strategic approach.
Key findings in 2011-12 included:
36%
74%
33%
Increasing awareness
of RCDs
Majority choose
registered electricians
Basic visual checks not
being done
36% of people know what an RCD is, a
significant increase from last year’s results
(30%). But there has also been an increase
in the percentage saying they do not have
RCD protection (up to 43% from 34%).
74% of British adults who have used an
electrician in the last twelve months have
chosen one from a government-approved
scheme, consistent with last year.
A third of people have not carried out basic
visual checks in the past six months
While this shift could be attributed to a
greater understanding around RCDs, there
is still work to be done to encourage people
to act on this increased awareness.
n People with RCDs are more likely to have
performed visual checks
n A higher percentage of homeowners
(54%) carry out checks than those living
in rented accommodation (46%)
Encouraging people to carry out visual checks in their homes will be a priority for 2012/13.
The research shows that there is more work to be done with local authorities and landlord associations, as well as encouraging tenants to carry
out their own safety checks rather than relying on landlords to ensure the electrical safety in their rented homes.
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
9
Safer Electrical Installations
The Charity seeks to influence
industry standards and
actively participates in the
work of over 50 UK, European
and international committees
and industry bodies relating
to electrical installations.
There is still a lot of work to be done to improve electrical safety
in owner-occupied and privately rented housing. The Electrical
Safety Council works to influence people to upgrade their electrical
installations, particularly in older properties, encouraging them to use
registered electricians to undertake work in the home.
Priorities
1. Advocate for the inclusion of electrical installation condition reporting as a requirement for all private-rented houses, firstly in Scotland and then
the wider UK
2. Continue to advocate for the introduction of statutory and/or self-regulation for the fitting of residual current devices in homes
3. To help ensure consumer safety interests and those of the meter installers are addressed in the smart meter programme
4. To provide an online facility for householders to search for registered contractors
5. Lobby for the effective revision and retention of Part P (Electrical Safety) of the Building Regulations
6. To monitor developments in the electrical industry and work with stakeholders to protect consumers from the dangers that electricity can create
7. To work closer with stakeholders to achieve shared outcomes
Achievements
Condition reporting in Scotland
As a result of meetings between the Electrical
Safety Council and Scottish officials, the
Tenant Information Pack (TIP) consultation
included a requirement to provide essential
information on health and safety issues in
the accommodation, including electrical
appliances and energy systems.
10
Whilst this requirement reflects some of the
Charity’s concerns, the ESC’s response to the
consultation also called for a greater emphasis
on electrical safety through inclusion in the
TIP of proof of inspection of the electrics every
5 years by a registered electrician, Portable
Appliance Testing (PAT), and a statement about
whether a Residual Current Device (RCD) is
installed in the property and what type.
Smart Meter Programme
The Electrical Safety Council has continued
to support the case for including an
isolating switch in the smart electricity
meter, working with partners including the
Department of Energy and Climate Change
(DECC), Association of Meter Operators
(AMO) and Energy Networks Association
(ENA). The ESC’s position is supported by
the Scheme Operators.
The ESC was invited to a DECC workshop
in December 2011 to present its case.
Despite support from other bodies
represented, DECC concluded that the
isolating switch issue was not directly related
to the smart meter rollout and that as it
could not be mandated, it was unlikely to
be considered further.
The ESC has continued to collaborate with
the AMO on a range of electrical safety issues
relating to the replacement of electricity
meters (both ‘smart’ and ‘dumb’), with
significant results. Amongst other things the
AMO has agreed to its members fitting a
jointly badged ESC/CFOA fire warning label
on a voluntary basis, where appropriate.
It has also agreed to propose changes to
the industry code of practice (MOCOPA),
concerning action to be taken if the earthing
arrangement for an electrical installation
is found to be inadequate, on-site risk
assessment to determine whether it is
necessary to check the tightness of meter
tails at the consumer unit, and a visual
inspection of the consumers’ equipment
adjacent to the meter.
Metal Theft
The ESC was alerted to a spate of metal thefts, in which the copper protective conductor that
enables the automatic disconnection of faulty electrical circuits and equipment in homes was
being stolen from external electricity meter cupboards. The integrity of this protective ‘earthing
conductor’ is absolutely vital to protect people from electric shock and fire.
The ESC has started discussions with industry and other stakeholders, including the AMO, Ofgem
and the Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA) to find a solution to this problem. Consequently
CFOA and the ESC has developed guidance both for the affected householders and for Fire and
Rescue Service (FRS) staff to check external meter boxes during their home safety visits.
International Liaison
FISUEL (International federation for the safety of electricity users): The ESC engaged with the
European Working Group on electrical safety issues including:
n Guidance and report forms for the periodic inspection of photovoltaic (PV) installations
n Special electrical safety measures for PV systems being required/recommended for fire fighters
n Safety aspects of all forms of microgeneration
n Guidance for home charging arrangements for electric vehicles
n The FISUEL strategic plan for 2012/2013
Choose Registered Electricians
The ESC has continued to explore the possibility of providing an online search facility for
householders to find a registered electrician in their local area, working with the Scheme
Operators and the Competent Person Scheme towards a solution.
Part P
A great deal of the Charity’s public affairs activity focussed on campaigning for the retention
of Part P of the Building Regulations to ensure that the safety of people having electrical
installation work done in their homes in England is not compromised. The ESC’s work helped to
raise awareness amongst decision makers of the role Part P has played in significantly reducing
the risk of electrical fires in the home and improving the quality of home electrical installations
throughout the UK. Among the key activities the ESC:
n Led a delegation from industry to meet with Communities Minister Andrew Stunell MP
n Instigated, and gave evidence to a Communities and Local Government Select Committee
Inquiry into domestic electrical safety. The inquiry came down firmly in favour of retaining
Part P, calling on the government to do more to promote awareness
n Hosted a Part P industry liaison group to discuss potential changes with industry and civil servants
The announcement of a final decision on the future of Part P is expected in late autumn 2012,
ahead of which the ESC will continue to campaign for its retention and consumer protection.
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
11
Safer Electrical Installations Cont.
Plug into Safety
The second year of the Plug into Safety campaign, which aims to increase awareness and use of RCDs
in UK homes, saw the achievement of strong media coverage, wider audience reach through marketing
activity and gains in public affairs.
Partnership Marketing
The Plug into Safety marketing activity has continued to receive
support from retail partners who have displayed information about
the campaign online and within stores. Wholesale partners have
distributed Electricians’ packs which contain information promoting
the case for RCDs that they can give to their customers.
Further insights into motivations and barriers to upgrade have been
gained from trade feedback and research. Focus groups and regional
pilots have further informed plans for future activity. Online awareness
campaigns have featured messaging about buying products safely
online, RCDs and general electrical safety tips. This aspect of the
campaign has reached around 28 million consumers.
Achievements
n 41,000 electricians packs distributed – total of 1,780,000 leaflets
n Awareness of benefits of RCD protection up 6% from 2010-11
n Over 148,000 leaflets distributed to consumers
n Over 75,000 Best Practice Guides distributed
Media Relations
In the past year, the focus has widened to cover more general safety
messages, but still stressing the importance of RCD protection. Media
circulation more than doubled on the previous year, reaching over 185
million people, including coverage in The Independent, The Times and
BBC Online as well as extensive coverage in key regional print titles.
Media campaigns predominantly targeted consumers, as well as one
piece of activity that addressed the confusion between private landlords
and their tenants over who holds responsibility for electrical safety in
rented properties. The Charity worked with celebrity spokespeople
to increase mainstream media interest as well as trade bodies, with
the National Landlords Association (NLA) and Residential Landlords
Association (RLA) both supporting the landlords media campaign.
12
Achievements
n Over 275 pieces of media coverage, including radio piece
syndicated across Sky network
n Promotional activity in shopping centres reached consumers in
Leeds, Manchester, Bristol and Birmingham, achieving extensive
local print and radio coverage
n Home Electrical Safety Check smartphone app achieved over
4,500 downloads in four months
n Positive coverage in trade and professional press, particularly in
response to the Part P consultation
Questions asked in Parliament included:
Lord Harrison:
To ask the Secretary of State for Communities
and Local Government what steps his
Department has taken to encourage (a) local
authorities, (b) registered social landlords and
(c) private landlords to install residual current
devices in their properties.
Andrew Stunell MP:
The housing health and safety rating system is a risk-based
evaluation tool to help local authorities identify and protect
against potential risks and hazards to health and safety from
any deficiencies identified in dwellings. It was introduced
under the Housing Act 2004 and came into effect on 6 April
2006 and applies to all residential properties in England.
While not a legal requirement, the rating system operating
guidance states that if electrical equipment operating at
230 volts or higher is used, a residual current device can
provide additional safety.
Public Affairs
The year saw good progress in promotion of the Plug into Safety
campaign in Westminster, as well as significant strides towards
achieving regulatory change in Scotland. The campaign will be
taken to Wales in 2012-13.
The purpose of the ESC’s engagement has been to influence
decision-makers’ thinking around the need for regular
inspection and electrical condition reporting for landlords, as
well as increasing the use of RCDs in the home. In addition, it
has sought to generate acceptance for legislative measures
which would ensure such regular inspection and promote the
use of RCDs.
Achievements
n Greater brand recognition for the ESC in Parliament, along with
a greater understanding amongst decision-makers about the
importance of electrical safety. 66% of MPs agreed that there
should be a legislative framework
n High level discussions with civil servants
in BIS around electrical safety and consumer issues
n Successful engagement at all three party conferences, meeting
with 18 politicians, to discuss issues from rogue landlords to
consumer regulation and e-commerce
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
13
Safer Electrical Installations Cont.
The Charity’s trading subsidiary, Ascertiva Group Ltd, continued to support the Electrical Safety Council by
providing funding for its charitable objectives. During 2011-12 Ascertiva also delivered its own key electrical
safety campaigns through its NICEIC brand.
A.S.K
Other activities
Fronted by TV presenter Rav Wilding the
A.S.K campaign (Ask for ID, See if it’s legit,
Keep safe) urged homeowners to check the
ID of any tradesperson entering their home.
It was designed to root out rogue traders
who falsely claim to be NICEIC registered
and encourage consumers to always use
a registered tradesperson.
NICEIC hosted its first conference and
exhibition, NICEIC Live, at Epsom Downs
Racecourse. More than 500 attendees from
the electrical contracting and installation
industry enjoyed a packed programme
of seminars. It also won an award for the
best use of events and exhibitions at the
Construction Marketing Awards 2011.
Jobs for the Girls
NICEIC and the Electrical Contractors
Association (ECA) worked together to
produce 2021 Vision: The Future of the
Electrical Contracting Industry. This major
piece of research was designed to provide
a long term vision of the electrical industry.
It was also the first tangible result of talks
to see how the two organisations can work
together to provide unity and leadership for
the industry.
Building on the successful launch of its Jobs
for the Girls Campaign in 2010, NICEIC held
a parliamentary event at Westminster. It
focussed on the need to encourage more
women into the electrical contracting
industry, and was attended by supporters
of the campaign including Chi Onwurah MP
and Nadhim Zahawi MP.
14
In July 2011 the Institution of Engineering
and Technology (IET) published the first
amendment to the 17th edition wiring
regulations and in the process set out the
national standard for which all new electrical
installations are to comply. NICEIC supported
the roll-out of the new standards (effective
from 1 January 2012) by providing a series
of workshops and seminars to ensure its
contractors are kept up to date with the
latest regulations.
NICEIC continued to offer certification services, Building Regulations Schemes, products and support to
electrical contractors and many other trades within the construction industry.
The Approved Contractors scheme
(operated under licence from the Electrical
Safety Council) increased its roll of registered
electrical contractors to 16,619 representing
an increase of 438 (2.7%) in 2011-12. The
Domestic Installer scheme maintained its
position as the largest Part P Competent
Person Scheme with over 9,200 registered
installers, and over 1,000 new applications
within the year. During the year NICEIC
issued 931,148 Building Regulations
Compliance Certificates on behalf of
Domestic Installers, accounting for more
than 70% of all Part P full scope certificates
issued in England and Wales.
Scottish Building Standards - NICEIC
continues to be a scheme provider for the
Scottish Building Standards Certification
of Construction (Electrical Installations to
BS7671) Scheme. During the year there were
1,457 notifications under the scheme, a 15%
increase on the previous year.
NICEIC Microgeneration Certification
Scheme (MCS) – As the market leader,
NICEIC continued to build on its success
by increasing its share of the MCS Installer
Scheme to 38% (previously 32%) with a total
of 1,840 registrations.
NICEIC Training - Despite the tough trading
conditions it was another successful year
for the training team with almost 4,000
delegates signing up for just under 400
NICEIC courses – up almost 25% on the
previous year. A host of new courses were
introduced including Electrical Installation
Condition reporting (EICR), 2399-01
(Environmental Technologies) and the
popular 17th edition – 1st Amendment.
Image to be inserted here
A.S.K spokesman Rav Wilding and NICEIC’s Tony Cable promote the campaign
Asertiva Funding
Activities
NICEIC Certification - Over 26,700
certificates were issued across the gas,
electrical, heating and plumbing industries
with a record of 2,957 certificates being
issued in February – the highest in any
one month.
The ESC’s Gary Gundry presents at NICEIC Live
NQA – NQA continued to provide
independent certification, assessment,
training and support services to its business
customers globally, issuing certificates
in over 50 countries including nations as
diverse as Belize, Bahrain and Yemen and
the larger trading nations including the
USA, China and Brazil.
NQA was also accredited to deliver product
certification under the Microgeneration
Certification Scheme (MCS) for renewable
technologies. MCS certification is crucial
to the renewable industry in the UK and
with NICEIC able to provide MCS Installer
certification, the Ascertiva Group can offer
the entire MCS package to those looking
to gain MCS accreditation.
The number of certificates issued globally
stood at 28,883 at the end of March 2012 up 1,500 on the previous year.
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
15
2012-13 Strategic Goals
n To conduct a comprehensive review of
the Plug into Safety campaign to ensure
it is achieving its objectives
n To influence tenants and homeowners
to carry out regular checks on the
condition of their electrics and take
remedial action
n Implement a strategy in Wales to tackle
poor installations as part of its private
rented sector housing strategy
n Engage with Local Councils to discuss
and improve their own strategies
towards the private rented sector
n Review new green policies, including the
Green Deal and Smart Metering, with the
aim of getting consumer safety concerns
acknowledged in their provisions
Phil Buckle takes part in the workshops at the ESC’s stakeholder event
Safer Electrical Installations Cont.
Working with Stakeholders
In November 2011, the ESC held its first
stakeholder event at the Southbank Centre.
Representatives from partner organisations
spoke about the projects they have worked
on with the ESC.
The individual presentations were followed by
breakout sessions in which working groups
discussed some of the ESC’s strategic priorities.
The event will become a regular fixture in
the calendar as the ESC’s seeks to improve
communication with stakeholders.
16
During the year, the Electrical Safety Council
has worked closely with key stakeholders on
a number of initiatives, including:
n Supporting the London Fire Brigade
(LFB) in their investigations into the
combustibility of plastic consumer unit
enclosures, following an increased number
of fires involving them in the London
area. The results of the investigations
were shared by LFB with BEAMA, who
have agreed to carry out their own
investigations into whether a flame
retardant should be a requirement for
all plastic consumer unit enclosures.
n Supporting the Chief Fire Officers
Association (CFOA) in addressing the
hazard to firefighters and others presented
by cables that have not been adequately
supported to resist the effects of fire.
n Joining an IET working group set up
to update their ‘Code of Practice for the
in-service inspection and testing of
electrical equipment’. The review will
take into account the recommendation
concerning portable appliance testing
in the Lofstedt review of health and
safety legislation.
Improving Product Safety
Approximately nine out of ten (89%) electrical
fires are caused by electrical products, mainly
through their misuse. The Electrical Safety Council
has developed its work in this area, enhancing the
Product Safety section of the website and continued
its focus on the removal of counterfeit and
substandard products from the market.
In 2011-12 the Charity worked closely with
manufacturers, retailers and regulatory
authorities with the aim of reducing the
number of electrical fires and accidents
caused by products in UK homes.
Priorities
1. Host the Charity’s second Product Safety Conference to raise the profile of its product safety activities in the UK
2. Continue the feasibility study into an Innovation Mark by running and evaluating a pilot scheme in collaboration with a small number of
electrical manufacturers and key stakeholders
3. Conduct independent screening and testing of products as well as work in partnerships to remove substandard electrical appliances from the market
4. Position the Electrical Safety Council’s website as a focal point for electrical product safety advice
Achievements
Product Safety Conference
The second Product Safety Conference was held in
October at Church House Conference Centre London.
95 delegates attended the conference, which was launched
by Edward Davey MP, then Minister for Consumer Policy and
Consumer Affairs.
The outcomes and proposed actions arising from the event
will be used to help shape future product safety activities
and strategic goals.
Innovation Mark
The study has been continuing into the feasibility of
introducing a ‘product safety innovation mark’ that
would be awarded to domestic electrical products that
incorporate a feature or features which significantly
enhance electrical safety beyond the minimum level
required by the relevant product standards.
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
17
Phil Buckle and Ed Davey MP at the Product Safety Conference, November 2011
Improving Product Safety Cont.
Product standards
The ESC carried out investigations into
the overloading of extension leads and
adaptors. Using the results as evidence, the
Charity successfully argued for an overload
test requirement to be included in the
2012 revision of BS 1363-1 Specification for
rewireable and non-rewireable 13A plugs.
A similar argument has been made for a
requirement to be included in the revision
of BS 1363-3 Specification for adaptors.
Counterfeit plugs and fuses
In December, the ESC accompanied
Birmingham Trading Standards on a raid
of a distributor suspected of dealing in
counterfeit and substandard electrical
goods. The ESC had also arranged for the
BBC to film the raid and subsequent testing
of the seized counterfeit and substandard
electrical products to be shown in a future
programme of the Fake Britain series.
18
Migration of professional products into
the domestic market
Research carried out in January 2012 focused
on identifying the particular products and
technologies used in the professional sector
that were most likely to migrate into the
domestic market and the potential risks and
trends arising from this transfer. The following
product areas were found to be the most
likely to cross over into the domestic market:
n Personal grooming, such as laser hair or
tattoo removal, spray-tanning equipment
and hair straighteners
n Kitchen items such as instant boiling
water dispensers and high pressure
coffee machines
n Land management equipment, such as
1,000 watt plus strimmers and several
power tools
The results indicated that although the transfer
of professional products into the domestic
domain usually carries minimal risk, there are
safety issues with certain products – typically
where there is a need for specific training or
for expert installation and maintenance.
Checking tightness of meter tails
The ESC commissioned an independent
laboratory to conduct tests aimed at
determining whether the connections
between meter tails and the main isolator
in consumer units are likely to become
loose when the cables are disturbed, such as
when smart and other replacement meters
are fitted. The investigation concluded that
installing a meter is likely to loosen the
connections. The results were shared with
DECC, HSE, Energy Networks Association,
MOCOPA and NSAP for their consideration.
The ESC used the results to influence
electricity suppliers and their meter operators
to check the tightness of such connections
after replacing electricity meters and before
leaving site, using a risk-based approach.
ICPHSO (International Consumer Product
Health and Safety Organisation)
The ESC attended product safety
symposiums in Seoul, Korea (November)
and Orlando, Florida (February), which
provided opportunities to raise the Charity’s
profile and influence among European and
international product safety professionals.
Product Screening and Investigations
During the year the following products were identified as a priority for testing, which was undertaken in an
independent laboratory.
Kitchen Appliances*
Compact fluorescent lamps
LED tubes
Test: Safety and compliance with product
standards
Test: The effects of using compact
fluorescent lamps with switching and
dimmer devices
Test: The effect of using LED tube lamps
as a direct replacement for standard
fluorescent lamps
Sample: 10
Sample: 4
Conclusion: When operated with touch
dimmers, lamps started flickering and emitting
noise. Lamps that failed were not considered
hazardous as damage was contained within
the lamp housing. All surface temperatures
were within applied standard limits and no
hazardous conditions evident.
Conclusion: For two of the lamp samples
tested, the combination of voltage and
current measured during installation/
removal of the lamp between the live pins
of the lamp and earth would in certain
circumstances be considered an electric
shock hazard. After modification, the
luminaire would present a hazard if refitted
with the original or replacement fluorescent
lamps. Unsafe retrofit LED lamps continue to
be placed on the market.
Sample: 11
Conclusion: Child appealing design, high
surface temperatures, poor internal wiring
and the absence of safety warnings all
suggest that safety standards in support
of the UK’s Electrical Equipment Safety
Regulations are not being properly followed.
Action: The ESC is liaising with
manufacturers and retailers on the findings
and keeping market surveillance authorities
informed of its actions.
Action: Liaison with manufacturers and
retailers on the findings. Research findings
reported through various media channels.
Action: Working with Trading Standards, UK
importers have been subject to investigation
and ordered to recall unsafe products.
2012-13 Strategic Goals
n Launch a product safety campaign to,
among other things, make consumers
aware of their rights and to use
their appliances better and engage
policymakers on standards and rules on
electrical appliances sold in the UK and EU,
based on new research that is currently
being developed
n To evaluate the effectiveness of the
screening and testing programme
*Kitchen appliances:
Toasters (3), mini/halogen/microwave ovens (3), popcorn maker /egg boiler (1), rice
cooker (1), deep fat fryer (1), portable washing machine (1), induction cooker (1)
n Review the RAPEX system to analyse trends
and issues and strategise accordingly
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
19
Providing Direct Support and Grants
The Grants Scheme and Electrical Fire Safety Fund are now in their third year in their current form. To date,
the ESC has provided £624,000 in funding to partners and reached almost a million people, directly benefiting
over 72,000 with support and assistance to help reduce the number of electrical-related accidents and injuries,
with a focus on reaching vulnerable groups.
Priorities
1.Reduce the costs of managing the home-improvement grant scheme and expand it to more vulnerable groups other than older people
2.Replicate and scale up fire safety projects with the greatest impact by setting aside funding for longer-term partnerships
Achievements
Grants Scheme
The Scheme is run with the support of the
national bodies for Home Improvement
and Care and Repair Agencies: Foundations
(representing England), Care & Repair
Scotland (representing Scotland), and Care
& Repair Cymru (representing Wales), and
working with Gable (Shelter) in Northern
Ireland. Their support meant the Scheme can
reach every eligible agency in the UK to give
them the opportunity to apply for funding.
These national bodies also help to reduce the
administrative burden by directly promoting
the Scheme to their respective agencies and
also coordinate the application process to
shortlist stage. Just over £100,000 was made
available in 2011-12.
The Scheme was expanded to include
homeowners who are 21 years or over and
registered disabled, with 57 out of the total of
352 direct beneficiaries falling into this category.
20
Electrical Fire Safety Fund
Evaluation
In 2011-12, 120 applications were received
and funding of £140,000 was awarded to 33
fire prevention schemes across the UK, ten
more than the previous year.
An external review of the Grants Scheme
and Electrical Fire Safety Fund partners
was conducted to assess their views of the
overall funding process from application
through to evaluation and to examine the
way in which they felt that the Electrical
Safety Council managed the schemes.
Feedback was positive, with an average of
94% of funded partners satisfied with the
whole process. There is, however, some
room for improvement with the evaluation
process. Consequently for the 2012-13
awards, the evaluation framework will be
provided to partners as soon as funding is
awarded so that they can plan for evaluation
ahead of delivering their funded initiatives.
Funding was provided to community safety
services including Trading Standards teams
and Fire & Rescue Services to deliver fire
prevention initiatives at local level that aim
to effectively tackle the causes of electricalrelated fires. Applicants were invited to apply
for up to £5,000 per project.
The majority of these awards funded
product testing or awareness events. During
the year over 3,000 products were tested
and the funded projects reached 700,000
people between them.
Funding was set aside to support longer
term projects, with four partners receiving
funding for a second year. These partners
were able to satisfactorily demonstrate that
further funding would enable their projects
to scale up, reach and benefit more people
and become more robust.
Case Study - Electrical Fire Safety Fund
In 2011-12 Warwickshire County Council’s Fire & Rescue Service ran a ‘Junior
Fire Safety Champion’ scheme, to increase awareness of electrical safety in
the home among primary school children. This is the second scheme that
the ESC has funded within the last three years.
Over 4,000 Year 5 children (aged 9-10) took part in a fire safety session
with the Fire Service, with nearly 2,500 carrying out home electrical safety
checks with their parents or guardians, spotting hazards such as electrical
cables running under carpets or rugs and overloaded plug sockets.
Children then completed an assessment form and handed it in to their
schools and were awarded a Junior Fire Safety Champion certificate.
All of the completed forms were entered into a monthly prize draw with
the winning child receiving £25 of WH Smith gift vouchers.
A wider audience was reached through the home safety checks and
through local radio and press coverage. Over 180 home safety checks
were carried out by the FRS. The activity has directly benefited around
20,000 adults and children across Warwickshire.
Oliver Freelove of Whitnash Primary School (Leamington) is presented
with his certificate by Deputy Chief Fire Officer Gary Phillips
UK-wide Funding 2011-2012
Electrical Fire Safety Fund
Grants Scheme
England
Northern Ireland
92
funding partners
£92,100
funding awarded
1
application
£5,000
funding awarded
Wales
11
funding partners
£14,000
funding awarded
Scotland
16
funding partners
£29,765
funding awarded
Northern Ireland
Scotland
Wales
15
applications
£15,000
funding awarded
14
applications
£25,000
funding awarded
England
1
funding partner
£3,200
funding awarded
77
applications
£59,000
funding awarded
Total No. of Funding Partners: 120
Total Funding Awarded: £139,065
Total No. of Applications: 107
Total Funding Awarded: £104,000
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
21
Providing Direct Support and Grants Cont.
Case Study - Grants Scheme
Funded partner Aberdeenshire Care & Repair
was contacted by an elderly gentleman after
he received a minor shock as his wall light
stopped working. He is the main carer for
his wife, who has had a stroke. The couple
live in a terraced house, built in the 1960s.
On inspection, the electrician sent to the
property found that the light had been
unsafely wired into the adjacent socket.
He also discovered the ceiling light in the
hall had bare wires, the fuse box needed
upgrading and several sockets were in poor
condition and causing a serious risk of fire.
Having started work on the property, the
electrician discovered that the lights were
dangerously wired directly off a 32 amp
socket circuit. He carried out a periodic
inspection of the property and then did the
work required to make it safe. This work was
funded by £500 from an ESC grant, with the
balance of £250 coming from Care & Repair’s
own Hardship Fund (£249.79).
Care & Repair were also able to install a
level access shower with the support of the
Occupational Therapist and grant funding
from the local authority. Without the
necessary electrical upgrades, this additional
work could not have been carried out.
The improvements to the property have
allowed the couple to continue living
independently at home in safety and security.
2012-13 Strategic Goals
n Enhance the effectiveness of the scheme by supporting partners to adopt a robust evaluation framework
n Enhance the partnership with local political representatives to make electrical safety part of their local strategy
nIncrease visibility of the schemes through the media
22
Raising Awareness
The Electrical Safety Council online
In the past twelve months the ESC has enhanced its online presence
and maintained its range of consumer and industry publications.
The new corporate website has now been
live for a year and has shown a 66% increase
in visitors during the period under review.
Visitor numbers continue to increase steadily,
boosted by online advertising to drive traffic
to specific areas of the site.
During the year, the ESC has established
a presence on the key social networking
sites Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. The
@OfficialESC Twitter account has over 1,000
followers, predominantly from industry.
Most visited web pages:
n Best Practice Guides - 55,175
n Guides and advice for consumers - 24,501
n 17th Edition Guidance - 21,435
n Essential Guide - 19,081
n Advice for landlords - 15,471
The Electrical Safety Council has added some
new features to the twothirtyvolts website,
which is aimed at pupils aged 11-16 and
secondary-level science and personal social
and health education (PSHE) teachers. Its
new timeline feature shows how key
events in the development of electricity
sit alongside other historic milestones.
The site also includes material for teachers
and useful revision notes for students. At
the same time, a free revision app for
iphones and Android phones was launched,
offering the revision notes as well as videos
and quizzes, and enabling students to
access revision resources for electricity
anytime and anywhere.
2012-13 Strategic Goals
n Develop a social media campaign to
increase engagement on Facebook
and other social channels
n Refine the ‘Home Electrical Safety
Check’ app in line with consumer
feedback to improve user experience
n Launch free ‘Safe Isolation’ app for
industry, based on the Best Practice
Guide No 2 (Guidance on the
management of electrical safety
and safe isolation procedures for
low voltage isolation)
The two educational websites, Twothirtyvolts
and Switchedonkids have received over
175,000 unique visitors.
In November the ESC launched its first
smartphone app – the free Home Electrical
Safety Check app which is available for
iPhones and Android phones. Designed
to be as easy to use as possible, it helps
people to carry out simple visual checks
in their homes, highlighting the potential
dangers in each room and flagging the more
serious issues that should be referred to a
registered electrician.
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
23
Raising Awareness Cont.
Publications
The Electrical Safety Council produces a range of publications and
safety leaflets, both for the electrical industry and general public.
Switched On magazine is distributed to
over 87,000 electrical contractors, local
authorities, housing associations, landlords
and others with an interest in electrical
safety. The magazine is also available on
the ESC website with nearly 8,000
downloads in 2011-12.
The Essential Guide has now been available
as an online resource for two years, this
year moving into the top five most visited
sections of the website. During the year 650
trial users signed up, with a quarter of these
converting to take up subscriptions.
Helpline
During the year the Electrical
Safety Council received 655 calls
to the Helpline and 2,103 emails.
Helpline statistics 2011-2012
Top 5 reasons for calling
Technical advice
25%
Home safety advice
11%
The ESC’s Best Practice Guides are hosted in
the most popular section of the ESC website,
with over 55,000 visits during the year. Two
guides were updated:
n BPG3 Issue 2, Connecting a
microgeneration system to a domestic
or similar electrical installation (in parallel
with the mains supply); and
n BPG4 Issue 3, Electrical installation
condition reporting: Classification
Codes for domestic and similar electrical
installations, reflecting the change from
periodic inspection reports to electrical
installation condition reports, and
detailing the new codes.
The ESC continues to offer a range of
leaflets for the public, containing general
safety advice, guidance for embarking on
electrical work in the home and productspecific advice, covering popular appliances
including electric blankets, Christmas lights
and phone chargers.
As people increasingly change their
shopping habits and choose to purchase
goods over the internet, the ESC produced
a Safe Shopper’s Guide. It points out the
common problems that can arise when
buying electrical goods online and offers
tips to help people to protect themselves
and their purses.
If you would like any of the literature
provided by the ESC, please send an
email to [email protected].
24
Leaflets requests
11%
Essential guide queries
5%
Grants scheme queries
5%
Finance Report 2011-2012
The summary group financial statements are not the statutory accounts but a summary of information relating
to the group income and expenditure account, statement of total recognised gains and losses, consolidated
balance sheet and cash flow statement, derived from the full audited Trustees’ report and financial statements
of the Charity which were approved by the Board of Trustees on 26 September 2012. The Auditors’ statement
under Section 496 of the Companies Act 2006 was unqualified. The audit report made under Section 498 of the
Companies Act 2006 was also unqualified. Copies of the full financial statements will subsequently be filed with
the Charity Commission, the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator and Companies House.
These summarised financial statements may not contain sufficient information to gain a complete
understanding of the financial affairs of the charity. The full audited Trustees’ report and financial statements
may be obtained on application to the Charity’s head office.
Charles Tanswell, Chairman
Independent Auditor’s Statement to the Directors
of the Electrical Safety Council
report if we become aware of any apparent misstatements or material
inconsistencies with the summarised financial statements.
We have examined the summarised financial statements of The
Electrical Safety Council.
Basis of opinion
This statement is made solely to the directors, as a body in accordance
with the terms of our engagement. Our work has been undertaken so
that we might state to the directors those matters we have agreed to
state to them in this statement and for no other purpose. To the fullest
extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to
anyone other than the charity’s directors as a body, for our work, for this
statement, or for the opinions we have formed.
Respective responsibilities of directors and auditor
The directors are responsible for preparing the summarised financial
statements in accordance with the requirements of section 427 of
the Companies Act 2006 and regulations made thereunder and
recommendations of the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice.
Our responsibility is to report to you our opinion on the consistency
of the summarised financial statements with the full financial
statements and directors’ report and its compliance with the relevant
requirements of section 427 of the Companies Act and the regulations
made thereunder. We also read the other information contained in
the summarised annual report and consider the implications for our
We conducted our work in accordance with Bulletin 2008/3 ‘The
auditors’ statement on the summary financial statement’ issued by the
Auditing Practices Board for use in the United Kingdom. Our report on
the full annual financial statements describes the basis of our opinion
on those financial statements.
Opinion
In our opinion the summarised financial statements are consistent
with the full financial statements and the Directors’ Annual Report
of The Electrical Safety Council for the year ended 31 March 2012
and complies with the relevant requirements of section 427 of the
Companies Act 2006 and regulations made thereunder.
We have not considered the effects of any events between the date
on which we signed our report on the full annual financial statements
(8 October 2012) and the date of this statement.
PKF (UK) LLP
Statutory auditor
London, UK
Date: 8 October 2012
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
25
Finance Report 2011-2012 Cont.
Results
Expenditure
Despite the challenging economic climate
the Group recorded a surplus of £405K, a
creditable achievement and ahead of the
internal budget (excluding FRS 17 impacts)
which was break-even due to continued
focus on cost control, an above budget
contribution from the US joint venture and
strong demand for technical publications
driven by publication of an amendment to
the 17th Edition of the wiring regulations.
Total outgoing resources were £36,233K, an
increase of 7% reflecting increases in revenues
and substantial investment by Ascertiva in
new markets, products and services with
the long term strategic objective of growing
Ascertiva’s revenues and surpluses. This
investment has cost over £700K which has
been fully expensed in the year.
Gift aid of £3,476K (2011: £3,744K) has been
generated by the Charity’s subsidiaries.
Reserves have reduced significantly from
£13,780K to £7,341K mainly as a result of the
increase in the FRS 17 pension deficit. These
reserves are wholly unrestricted.
Income
Total incoming resources increased by 7% to
£36,638K and comprised £19,987K of charitable
income and £16,441K from trading activity.
Income from charitable activities undertaken
in Ascertiva increased by 5%, principally
due to demand for merchandising
and publication material prompted by
publication of the amendment to the 17th
Edition of the wiring regulations.
The Charity’s income, comprising interest
on bank deposits and investment income
of £210K, was in line with the previous year
despite a decline in investable assets.
Income from subsidiary funded activities
increased by 10% mainly due to the
growth of revenue streams in the energy,
environmental and renewable sectors.
26
Charitable expenditure incurred in the Charity
amounted to £4,425K and was consciously
reduced from the previous year in anticipation
of a reduction in gift aid and difficulties in
generating income from new sources.
Almost all of the Group’s trading activities are
conducted in Ascertiva with the exception
of the joint venture activities in China
undertaken by SNQA. The Group owns 50%
of SNQA through its subsidiary National
Quality Assurance Ltd.
Governance costs at £533K represented less
than 2% of total resources expended.
Fixed Assets
The majority of the Charity’s tangible fixed
assets comprise the land, buildings, furniture
equipment and IT hard and software used in
the Group on a daily basis. Capital invested
in new fixed assets amounted to £840K and
is mainly accounted for by the purchase of IT
equipment and continued investment in the
SAP system by Ascertiva, an ongoing project.
actuarial assumptions which were updated
following completion of the triennial
valuation. This deficit is calculated under
current accounting standards and is of a
long term (as well as variable) nature.
The pension deficit impacts the Charity’s
short and medium term cash flows by the
funding arrangements agreed with the
Pension Scheme Trustees. These comprise
£5.9M of deficit payments made since
July 2009 of which £2.4M were made
in the year under review with a further
£10.5M committed over the eight years
commencing 1 April 2012.
As a result of the escalating risks
associated with the operation of a defined
benefit pension scheme the Group
decided, subsequent to a consultation
being undertaken with staff and their
representatives, to close the scheme
to future accrual and to transfer active
members to a defined contribution scheme.
Outlook
The Group’s financial position remains
satisfactory and the budget for the current
year is break-even (excluding FRS17
impacts) as the Charity intends maintaining,
as far as possible, its current range of
activities despite the continued challenges
posed by the economic climate particularly
for the activities of Ascertiva.
Pension Scheme
Cash, Investment Policy and
Returns
The underlying FRS 17 pension deficit
increased by £4.2M year on year, due mainly
to changes in some of the key underlying
Group cash and investment balances have
fallen to £13,832K (2011: £15,901K) reflecting
the pension deficit payments of £2.4M.
The Charity’s investment policy has as its
objective “to enhance, in so far as is reasonable,
with the avoidance of undue risk, the real value
of the capital.” A total return, over the medium
term, in excess of that available on cash
deposits has been targeted as a benchmark: in
effect an absolute return strategy whilst capital
preservation is also critical.
An investment portfolio of £6.8M of funds
with a long term investment horizon is
managed by two fund managers, Cazenove
and HSBC. Continued turmoil in financial
markets has resulted in a modest net return
of 1%, £75K, on the portfolio, comprising
£44K of capital losses, £151K of income and
£32K of charges.
The investment policy is maintained under
ongoing review in light of changing Group
funding requirements. Following a review of
investments the targeted cash allocation within
the investment portfolio has been reduced
The balance of the Charity’s investments
relates to investments in its trading
subsidiaries and joint ventures.
Reserves Policy
The Board has accepted and endorsed
the recommendation of the Finance
and Management Committee that the
reserves target should reduce from three
to two times discretionary charitable
expenditure after provision has been made
for designated investments in tangible fixed
assets which cannot be easily liquidated
and the funding of the next three years’
pension deficit payments. Charity reserves
are currently approximately 80%, or
nineteen months expenditure, of this target.
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
27
Summary Group Financial Statements 2011-12
Summary Group Income and Expenditure Account for year ended 31 March 2012 2012 £’000
2011
£’000
36,418
(17,493)
(17,828)
(533)
(379)
185
220
405
34,062
(14,842)
(18,730)
(495)
119
114
211
325
2012 £’000
2011
£’000
405
(6,800)
(44)
(6,439)
13,780
7,341
325
11,400
286
12,011
1,769
13,780
2012 £’000
2011
£’000
14,870
1,586 12,610
(10,325)
2,285
(11,400)
7,341
14,963
1,122
14,189
(9,294)
4,895
(7,200)
13,780
Summary Cash Flow Statement
for year ended 31 March 2012 2012 £’000
2011
£’000
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from operations Returns on investments Net purchase of tangible fixed assets Net financial investment Net (decrease) in cash in the year (1,856)
671
(840)
(119)
(2,144)
162
669
(1,356)
(113)
(638)
Fees and operating income
Cost of generating funds Charitable expenditure Governance costs Other resources expended Operating surplus
Investment income Group surplus Summary Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses
for year ended 31 March 2012 Surplus for the financial year Pension adjustment Net investment gains/(losses)
Net movement of funds Fund balances brought forward at 1 April Fund balances carried forward Summary Consolidated Balance Sheet for year ended 31 March 2012 Fixed assets Investments in joint ventures: Share of net assets Current assets Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Net current assets Pension liability Reserves 28
Governance
The Electrical Safety Council (the Charity) is a company limited by guarantee,
and is governed by its members who also comprise its Board of Directors.
Patron
Ascertiva Group Ltd Directors
Baroness Tonge
Principal Trading Subsidiary
Board Members
C J Tanswell † (Chairman)
W H Wright †
D P Dossett, MBE
N Carter (resigned 30 March 2012)
E N King, OBE
D W M Latimer
(resigned 11 July 2011)
N McGuiness
R Miguel
B F Walker †
R Jones, MBE
S Bratt
D Johnson
(appointed 8 July 2011)
J Speirs (resigned 31 March 2012)
Chair
A Robinson
(appointed 1 June 2012)
Chair
E Clancy
Chief Executive Officer
S Currie (resigned 31 March 2012)
Non Executive Director
J Frame (resigned 31 March 2012)
Non Executive Director
W H Wright
Non Executive Director
C J Tanswell
Non Executive Director
M Sibley
(appointed 16 February 2012)
Senior Management Team
P Buckle
Director General
M C Clark
Technical Director
J O’Connell
Deputy Director General &
Company Secretary
M Allen
Head of Technical Development
J Bradley
Principal Engineer
A Rousseau
Head of Communications
† Office Bearer
Committees
Electrical Safety of
Products Committee
G Jones
S MacConnacher
R Jefferis
M Mullins
P Leshirley
J Hodge
R Harris
A Ferguson
G Tunney
G Cronshaw
C Heemskerk
R Bates
(resigned 30 September 2011)
B F Walker
P Buckle
A Gordon
M Young
P Buckle
B F Walker
C J Tanswell
M C Clark
M Allen
S Curtler
N Carter
Standing Committee
on Technical Matters
M C Clark (Chairman)
J Bradley (Secretary)
P Cook
A Daley (resigned October 2011)
D W M Latimer
P Lawson-Smith, OBE
(resigned January 2012)
G Cronshaw
M Onyett
P Sayer
J A McLean
C J Tanswell
D Start
A Wells
J Elliott
B Wright
B F Walker (papers only)
Finance and Management
Committee
C J Tanswell (Chairman)
J O’Connell (Secretary
W H Wright
D Johnson
E N King, OBE
Technical Committee
W H Wright (Chairman)
J Bradley (Secretary)
M C Clark
D W M Latimer
B F Walker
C J Tanswell
D Start
G Digilio
Dr J Hodge
G Cronshaw
A Wells
P Buckle
K Morton
J M R Hagger
M Allen
B Cairney
F Bertie
M Mullins
E N King, OBE
N Carter
Campaigns Committee
B Walker (Chairman) – Trustee
L Carney (Secretary) – ESC
M Hamilton-Russell – CFOA
D Smith – ENA
K Butler – BEAMA
S Merrill – RoSPA
M Smith – Ascertiva
R Jones – Trustee
A Rousseau – ESC
S Kuyser – TSI
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
29
Committees and Councils
The Electrical Safety Council is represented on a number of committees and
councils that develop British standards, such as those relating to the requirements
for electrical installations, fire detection and emergency lighting systems. It also
participates in European and international standards work as well as providing
experts for working groups and teams.
Our membership includes the following:
n BASEC Certification Committee
n BEAMA Technical Committee
n CENELEC Working Groups
n ECA Electrotechnical Committee
n Electrotechnical Assessment Specification
n Institution of Engineering and Technology
n Joint BSI/IEE Technical Committee
n NAPIT Technical Sub-committee
n SELECT Technical Committee
n The British Standards Institution
n The International Federation for the Safety of Electricity Users (Fisuel)
Independent Certification Councils
Ascertiva’s activities are monitored by an Independent Certification Board (ICB). It provides
assurances that Ascertiva‘s certification activities are carried out fairly, independently and
that there are no conflicts of interest which could influence its certification decisions.
The ICB oversees Ascertiva’s impartiality, processes, policy implementation, complaints,
appeals and communications.
This board comprises the chairmen of three councils which monitor the certification
activities of each of Ascertiva‘s main businesses:
n The Electrical Contracting Certification Council (for electrical schemes);
n The Management Systems Certification Council (for management systems); and
n The Personnel Certification Council (for personnel schemes).
These councils are made up of people representing contractors, consumers and
specifiers. Ascertiva is particularly proud of the standard of individuals it is able to attract
to these independent councils and is extremely grateful to them for giving their time
as well as to their organisations for allowing them to participate. In particular the three
chairmen John Darlaston, David Bell and Paul Everall are individuals of significant standing
in the wider business arena.
30
Membership of Independent
Certification Councils
Management Systems
Certification Council (MSCC)
D Bell (Chair)
C Miller
J Piggott
D Port
I Richardson
J Joshi
P Jervis
R Nunn
S Dickens
I McKay
Electrical Contracting
Certification Council (ECCC)
P Everall (Chair)
M Onyett
M Clark
S Haley
B Walker
S Akram
R Ferris
C J Tanswell
A Foster
Personnel Certification Council (PCC)
J Darlaston (Chair)
S Wright
D Shears
R Searle
A Grimsley
P Balmer
M C Clark
Principal Places of Business
The Electrical Safety Council
NQA Head Office
Registered Office
Unit 331-3
Great Guildford Business Square
30 Great Guildford Street
London SE1 0HS
Warwick House
Houghton Hall Park
Houghton Regis
Dunstable LU5 5ZX
Telephone:+44(0)203 463 5100
Facsimile: +44(0)203 463 5139
Email: [email protected]
Scottish Office
The Walled Garden
Bush Estate
Midlothian EH26 0SB
Telephone:+44 (0)131 445 9223
Facsimile: +44 (0)870 040 0560
Ascertiva Group Ltd
Registered Office
Warwick House
Houghton Hall Park
Houghton Regis
Dunstable LU5 5ZX
Telephone:+44(0)1582 531000
Facsimile: +44(0)1582 531010
Telephone:+44(0)1582 539000
Facsimile: +44(0)1582 539090
NICEIC Certification
Whitting Valley Road
Old Whittington
Chesterfield S41 9EY
Telephone:+44(0)1246 261126
Facsimile: +44(0)1246 261127
Advisors to Pension Scheme
Trustees
Financial Advisers and Actuary
Towers Watson Ltd
Watson House
London Road
Reigate
Surrey RH2 9PQ
Solicitors
Bristows
100 Victoria Embankment
London EC4Y 0DH
Auditors
PKF (UK) LLP
20 Farringdon Road
London EC1M 3AP
Bankers
HSBC
28 Borough High Street
London SE1 1YB
Investment Managers
Cazenove Fund Management
12 Moorgate
London EC2R 6DA
HSBC Global Asset Management
78 St James’ Street
London SW1A 1HL
The Electrical Safety Council Annual Report 2011-12
31
Phone: 0870 040 0561 Fax: 0870 040 0560
Registered Charity (England and Wales) No. 257376 (Scotland) No. SC039990
The Electrical Safety Council is a UK charity committed to reducing deaths and
injuries caused by electrical accidents at home and at work.
370
Corporate member of
Plain English Campaign
Committed to clearer communication
October 2012