CPA Bulletin

www.cpa.uk.net CPA Bulletin > November 2024 19 being sought and CPA Members will be advised of locations and timings once venues have been arranged. Finally, Steve Mullholland as CPA CEO and Aaron Davies, as a CPA Council Member, were welcomed onto the Board as the new CPA representatives. Battery Energy Storage Systems and Fire Risks The potential dangers in the event of a runaway fire on the larger Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) units - from 250kw/h plus - was discussed at the Tower Crane Interest Group’s (TCIG) Steering Group meeting in July 2024 in relation to the increasing use of these energy systems to power tower cranes/hoists, etc. This was in response to an initial inquiry seeking guidance on the potential impact and actions in the event of a thermal runaway, particularly if sited next to a tower crane base. At the meeting, it was mentioned new-generation BESS units now have high levels of thermal control and inbuilt fire suppression systems, but it was felt that some guidance on good practice with BESS positioning should be devised. A working group, consisting of representatives from TCIG and BESS suppliers, has been formed and first met in early October 2024 to commence the work on a publication which is to be titled - ‘Procurement and Management of BESS Units on Site’. Some 70 topic areas were identified by the working group, encompassed within seven sections that include Type, Benefits and Features; Factors for Procurement; Installation and Positioning; Unit Protection; Operational Management; Emergency Procedures; Regulations and Standards. The working group are now adding the technical and safety detail to the topic areas to form the guidance. Stars of the Future 2025 CPA staff are in the process of arranging the 2025 Stars of the Future programme and as always, welcome nominations for the various plant-based occupations for trainees and apprentices. An award also exists for Apprentice Mentors and is becoming the hardest fought category since its introduction several years ago. Nominations for all categories open on 1st January 2025 and nomination forms and supporting information can be downloaded from the CPA website from that date. The awards event has been scheduled for Thursday 10th July 2025 at the usual venue - the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre near Coventry. SKILLS & TECHNICAL: 2