With so many new cable brands entering the market and lots of cheap offers available, what should you really be looking for when buying cable?
Currently there is a lot of talk about rogue products and cheap imports, but what's wrong with wanting to buy cheaply? We all want a good deal, but what are the risks involved in buying a cheap cable?
If the cable you install is not from a good quality supplier it may not comply with all the relevant UK and European standards. You could unwittingly be installing cable that is not fit for purpose or just plain dangerous.
Nexans has a network of factories worldwide that operate to the highest standards and where quality and reliability are key. We also ensure that our cables are independently tested and checked. All Nexans cables carry the BASEC mark, but what does this actually mean and what are the benefits for the contractor? BASEC employs a number of laboratories to conduct tests to all specifications and standards and ensures products sent for approval undergo fully independent test procedures using the latest equipment and technology.
By detailed examination of Nexans' production processes and controls and rigorous testing, BASEC ensures that our cable products meet appropriate national, European and international standards.
We asked Jeremy Hodge of BASEC to list 10 Good Reasons to choose cable with the BASEC mark:
1. Comprehensive
BASEC conducts tests and approvals to all specifications and standards in the electrical sector.
2. Fit-for-purpose
Quite simply, by choosing BASEC-approved cable you know it will be fit for purpose. Our auditors follow rigorous test and compliance protocols of the product and processes throughout the manufacturing cycle.
3. Safety
Certification ensures safety for the supplier, distributor and the end user, removing possible issues further down the line. BASEC approved cables are rigorously tested for shock, compression damage and insulation strength. They are better quality and carry a lower risk of receiving shock or a fire starting as a result of accidental damage during installation.
4. Quality
BASEC approved cable is always manufactured under an approved quality management system BA 2250, ensuring a continuity of high quality levels. Auditing and assessment lead to certification to international standards, ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001 (Environment) and OHSAS 18001 (Health and Safety).
5. Endorsement
Specifiers are always looking for third party approval of products and there is no higher level of approval than the BASEC mark.
6. Cost
The difference in cost between cables that carry the BASEC mark and those that don’t may not be much, but it is a small price to pay for reassurance.
7. Marketing
Organisations may apply for a licence to display the BASEC mark on their products once BASEC has verified that the products fully comply with specification.
8. Testing
Independent testing ensures compliance to specification and relevant standards and is used to help provide evidence-based reporting where required.
9. Monitoring
Through rigorous examination of manufacturing processes and controls – and ongoing follow-up - BASEC ensures that products meet appropriate national or international standards.
10. Communication
As an independent body, BASEC communicates with the electrical supply industry on behalf of members through its website, bulletins, seminars, industry bodies and the media.
So when you ask for a Nexans cable you can be certain you get all of the above included in the price too!
