Penta UK (P&B Weir Electrical Ltd)

Strategic Partnership Strengthens Electrification Safety

Penta UK (P&B Weir Electrical Ltd) — 14/08/2025

PENTA Electrical Safety Products, a leading provider of specialised safety equipment is proud to announce a new partnership with Avonside Safety Management (ASM), a specialist E-mobility & Energy Storage System training centre based in the West Midlands. This collaboration marks an important step forward in PENTA ESP’s mission to support safety and innovation across the rapidly growing electrification sector.

ASM has built a strong reputation as a trusted partner for some of the world’s most iconic brands within the automotive, marine, plant, defence, aviation and utilities sectors for whom they provide essential training and consultancy. With extensive experience in delivering high-quality training and safety protocols across the industry, Avonside plays a crucial role in ensuring that staff working in the electrification sector are equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to operate safely, confidently and efficiently in this rapidly evolving field.

As part of this new partnership, PENTA ESP has donated a range of safety equipment to ASM which featured recently at Formula Student event at Silverstone, one of the most prestigious student engineering competitions in the world.

The competition not only showcases cutting-edge engineering talent but also places a strong emphasis on safety, a value shared by both PENTA ESP and ASM. The tools provided by PENTA ESP supported ASM’s efforts to ensure all participating teams meet the highest standards when working with hazardous-voltage systems.

Jon Stone, Technical Manager at Avonside, said, “We’re thrilled to be working with PENTA ESP. Their tools and equipment are not only high quality but also essential for safe and efficient EV maintenance. We’re already seeing real interest from our clients, and we look forward to building on this partnership going forward.”

In addition to supporting the Formula Student event, Avonside will also act as a distribution partner for PENTA ESP products. This means that Avonside’s existing customer base, including major automotive manufacturers and independent service engineers, will soon have direct access to PENTA ESP’s innovative safety solutions.

This strategic partnership reflects PENTA ESP’s ongoing commitment to empowering professionals in the EV space with the right tools for the job, while also reinforcing ASM’s leadership in Electrification training and safety standards.

For more information about PENTA Electrical Safety Products visit pentaesp.com or Avonside Safety Management visit: avonside-sm.com

Setting the Standard in Insulated Gloves—Your First & Last Line of Shock Defense

Penta UK (P&B Weir Electrical Ltd) — 04/08/2025

REGELTEX, the renowned French manufacturer of high-performance insulated gloves, continues to lead the market in electrical safety solutions with its innovative range of gloves designed for a wide array of industries involving high and medium voltage electricity and switching gear.

Since its founding in 1932, REGELTEX has remained committed to excellence, sustainability, and user safety. REGELTEX gloves are manufactured the ISO 9001:2015 certification, ensuring the highest standards of quality control throughout every stage of production.

The quality assurance laboratory is integrated into the production site which allows REGELTEX to carry out all the tests according to applicable EN 60903 and IEC 60903 standards. The quality approach with visual and dielectric inspection of 100% of the production offers users the guarantee of conformity.

The range is complemented with GLE ELECTROVOLT insulating gloves which are made from natural rubber and available in all classes; many sizes, lengths and colours. Leather protectors are recommended to be worn over GLE ELECTROVOLT gloves to ensure mechanical protection (local regulations, work practices and risk analysis apply).

As rubber provides dielectric properties, the REGELTEX technique and expertise makes the gloves as thin as possible in order to offer the maximum level of dexterity to the users. Their ergonomic shape and lightly powdered interior make the GLE ELECTROVOLT gloves easy for donning and doffing.

REGELTEX Arc Flash & Grip composite gloves offer three-in-one benefits, combining dielectric, mechanical and thermal (arc flash) resistance. The specially formulated outer coating provides exceptional grip, even in humid or greasy conditions.

For over 90 years, REGELTEX has been at the forefront of insulating glove innovation. The company remains dedicated to producing safe, sustainable, and reliable protective equipment for professionals working in high-risk electrical environments.

REGELTEX is available in the UK and Ireland through leading electrical safety solutions manufacturer and distributer, PENTA Electrical Safety Products.

For more details visit pentaesp.com

PENTA Electrical Safety Products Celebrates Excellence with Inaugural 2025 Penta Awards

Penta UK (P&B Weir Electrical Ltd) — 05/01/2026

PENTA Electrical Safety Products proudly hosted its first-ever PENTA Electrical Safety Products Awards at the end of the year, recognising outstanding contributions from partners and distributors who have driven innovation, growth, and collaboration across the electrical safety sector in the UK and Ireland.

The awards honoured six key organisations whose dedication, market leadership, and strategic partnerships have significantly advanced the company’s mission of delivering world-class electrical safety solutions.

The 2025 PENTA Electrical Safety Products Awards winners include:

Alcomet – Partner of the Year
Thorne & Derrick – Specialist Distributor of the Year
Tranemo – Up and Coming Distributor of the Year
CBS – Collaboration Award for New Product Introduction
National Grid Distribution – Qualification Partner of the Year
Faraday Centre – Training Centre of the Year

Each recipient demonstrated exceptional performance, whether through record-breaking growth, market expansion, product innovation, regulatory approvals, or training excellence, helping PENTA Electrical Safety Products strengthen its position as an industry leader in electrical safety.

“We’re incredibly grateful to our partners who share our vision and commitment to safety, quality, and innovation,” said Bill Earlie, Commercial Sales Manager at PENTA Electrical Safety Products. “This inaugural awards ceremony is our way of celebrating the collaborative spirit that makes our collective success possible.”

PENTA Electrical Safety Products looks forward to building on these strong relationships as it continues to expand its footprint and develop cutting-edge safety solutions for critical infrastructure and industrial markets.

A Century of Excellence in Portable Earthing Solutions

Penta UK (P&B Weir Electrical Ltd) — 04/08/2025

PENTA Electrical Safety Products, formerly known as P&B Weir Electrical Ltd, is a globally recognised designer, manufacturer, and supplier of temporary portable earthing equipment and electrical safety products. With a heritage spanning over a hundred years, PENTA Electrical Safety Products has established itself as a leader in providing reliable solutions and technical expertise for the safe maintenance of power systems.

Comprehensive Earthing Solutions

Offering a wide range of portable earthing equipment tailored to meet the diverse needs of the electricity supply industry, PENTA Electrical Safety Products' product portfolio includes solutions for both substation and distribution line earthing, ensuring safety and compliance across various voltage levels.

Substation Portable Earthing Equipment

For substations, PENTA Electrical Safety Products provides an array of portable earthing equipment designed for use up to 400kV. This range includes:

Earth End Clamps: Secure connections to the earth grid.

Line End Clamps: Designed for attachment to busbars and conductors.
Aluflex Leads: Flexible, durable leads facilitating connections between clamps.
Operating Poles and Sockets: Essential tools for the safe application and removal of earthing equipment.
Spigots and Fixed Earthing Solutions: Customised solutions for specific substation configurations.

Notably, PENTA Electrical Safety Products' substation portable earthing equipment has been selected by the National Grid for their line end and earth end clamp requirements, underscoring the trust and reliability associated with their products.

Distribution Line Earthing Kits

For distribution networks operating up to 66kV, PENTA Electrical Safety Products offers customisable earthing kits comprising:

Line End Clamps: Available in various designs, including the S9B range and CE62 quick snap-on versions.
Earth End Clamps and Cross Arm Clamps: Ensuring robust connections to earth rods or existing earthing points.
Aluflex Leads: Offered in multiple sizes to suit different current ratings.
Cluster Bars and Terminal Plates: Facilitating the simultaneous earthing of multiple phases.
Operating Poles and Sockets: Designed for the safe handling of earthing equipment during installation and removal.

These kits are fully customisable to meet specific operational requirements, reflecting PENTA Electrical Safety Products commitment to providing tailored solutions for their clients.

Innovative Products: Reflect Aluflex Kit

Demonstrating a commitment to innovation, PENTA Electrical Safety Products has developed the Reflect Aluflex Kit, an ideal solution for night-time operations and work in low-visibility environments such as tunnels. This kit features highly reflective Aluflex leads with orange marking helices and reflective silver strips, enhancing visibility and safety during inspections and maintenance activities.

Quality and Compliance

PENTA Electrical Safety Products are designed and manufactured in compliance with relevant industry standards, such as the Energy Networks Association Technical Specification (ENA TS) 41-21, which covers portable earthing equipment for use on power systems up to 400kV. This adherence to standards ensures that their equipment meets stringent safety and performance criteria.

Global Reach and Expertise

With over 1,200 employees across 18 subsidiaries worldwide, PENTA Electrical Safety Products adapts its products to meet the electrical standards and regulations of various countries. Their extensive experience and global presence make them a trusted partner for utilities and industries seeking reliable earthing solutions.

For more details visit pbwel.com

Groundbreaking Innovation Eliminates Explosive Risks in Underground Power Cable Maintenance

Penta UK (P&B Weir Electrical Ltd) — 04/08/2025

A major leap forward in electrical safety has been introduced across the UK utilities sector with the adoption of the PICOUP ultra-safe power cable spiking and cutting tool, developed by PENTA Electrical Safety Products. This innovative solution is rapidly redefining best practices in underground power maintenance by eliminating the use of explosive cartridges—long considered a dangerous necessity in the field.

Unlike traditional spiking tools that rely on detonation-based systems to verify de-energisation, the PICOUP series employs a proprietary electrohydraulic mechanism that safely and reliably confirms the absence of voltage without the risks of misfire, accidental discharge, or hazardous storage requirements.

This shift marks a critical turning point for safety in underground cable operations, where workers face life-threatening hazards when preparing cables for repair or decommissioning. The PICOUP system allows crews to perform essential tasks with significantly reduced risk, while also streamlining preparation and maintenance workflows.

Key Advantages of the PICOUP Tool:

Zero explosives required: Removes all risks associated with handling, storing, and deploying explosive cartridges.
Controlled force application: Ensures precise, consistent pressure—minimizing damage to insulation layers and reducing the chance of unintended electrical events.
Faster job setup: Without the need for complex cartridge loading procedures, teams can begin work more quickly and with fewer steps prone to human error.
Simplified compliance and maintenance: No need for rigorous inspections or specialized storage facilities, unlike legacy spiking systems.

“This is not just an incremental improvement—it’s a complete rethinking of how we approach safety in one of the most dangerous aspects of utility work,” said Kevin Rushton, Managing Director of PENTA Electrical Safety Products. “The PICOUP tool removes explosive risks from the equation and empowers crews with a safer, smarter, and more intuitive way to work.”

The PICOUP range is now available for purchase through Thorne and Derrick and for rental via Sunbelt Rentals , making it accessible to utility providers and contractors nationwide. Full technical specifications and operational guides are available at pbwel.com .

With rising demand for safer, more sustainable infrastructure tools, the PICOUP system represents a bold step toward a future where high-voltage maintenance no longer comes with explosive consequences.

About PENTA Electrical Safety Products

We are an expert manufacturer of electrical safety solutions, driven by a commitment to ensuring your safety in every intervention.

PENTA Electrical Safety Products is trusted by Linesmen, Maintenance Technicians, and Electrical Engineers working across global electricity generation, transmission, rail and distribution networks.

We safeguard your operations with cutting-edge safety technology designed to meet the highest standards in the most demanding environments.

Made in the South West factory tour at PENTA Electrical Safety Products

Penta UK (P&B Weir Electrical Ltd) — 29/04/2026

On 16th April, we were delighted to host the Made in the South West factory tour at PENTA Electrical Safety Products in Corsham—one of those days that reinforces the value of opening your doors and sharing what you do.

We made a conscious decision to present the business as it truly is, not a staged version for visitors. We’re partway through our journey, and that’s visible from our Lean principles displayed across the site to the way our teams actively engage in improving their work. This openness led to some insightful and meaningful conversations throughout the day.

What stood out most for us was seeing our own people lead the experience. Apprentices, operators, and team leaders guided the tours, sharing firsthand what they do, how they do it, and what they’re working to improve next. There’s no better way to represent a business than through the voices of those who live it every day.

A particular highlight for many visitors was observing our daily Gemba in action. There were no scripts or adjustments for the occasion—just a typical day reviewing performance, identifying challenges, and agreeing on next steps. It’s a simple discipline, but one that continues to make a significant impact for us.

We also enjoyed showcasing the engineering behind our electrical safety products—from precision assembly and rigorous testing to some of the more specialised machining techniques we employ. Everything we do is driven by a clear purpose: helping to keep people safe on the electricity network.

Above all, we were proud of how the team’s openness, honesty, and quiet confidence came through on the day.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, asked thoughtful questions, and shared their own experiences—and to Made in the South West for making it all possible. It was a fantastic day, and one we look forward to repeating.

PENTA Electrical Safety Products Welcomes New Generation of Talent with Launch of Apprenticeship Programme

Penta UK (P&B Weir Electrical Ltd) — 10/10/2025

PENTA Electrical Safety Products, a leader in innovative electrical safety solutions, is proud to announce the expansion of its growing team with the addition of three promising new apprentices and trainees. As part of its commitment to nurturing future engineering talent, PENTA ESP is investing in hands-on training, real-world experience, and long-term career development for the next generation.

Ella, who has spent the past two years gaining invaluable work experience with PENTA ESP on a day-release basis while studying First Engineering at Chippenham College, has officially joined the company as a Technical Apprentice. Over the next three years, Ella will rotate through all areas of the business, gaining a comprehensive understanding of PENTA ESP’s operations and developing the skills to become a vital part of the company’s engineering future.

Joining Ella are Luke and Kobe, who begin their journeys with PENTA ESP as Technical Trainees on a part-time basis. Both are embarking on tailored in-house training pathways designed to prepare them for potential full apprenticeships. Their roles will provide foundational technical knowledge and workplace experience, with opportunities to progress based on performance and passion.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Ella, Luke, and Kobe to the PENTA family,” Mike Mundy, Technical Director at PENTA ESP. “At PENTA ESP, we believe that our future success is built on the talent, energy, and fresh perspectives of young people entering the engineering field. Investing in apprenticeships isn’t just about filling roles, it’s about shaping careers, fostering innovation, and strengthening our industry from within.”

PENTA ESP’s apprenticeship and trainee programmes reflect the company’s forward-thinking approach to workforce development. By offering structured learning, mentorship, and real responsibility from day one, PENTA ESP ensures that its apprentices are not just learners, they’re valued contributors to the team.

“We recognise the importance of the next generation in driving growth and bringing new ideas to our engineering family,” added Mike. “We wish Ella, Luke, and Kobe every success as they begin this exciting chapter — the opportunities ahead are as bright as their potential.”

Come and see where 90+ years of engineering heritage meets tomorrow’s safety solutions

Penta UK (P&B Weir Electrical Ltd) — 14/12/2025

You’re Invited! Step Inside PENTA Electrical Safety Products on Our Made in the Southwest Open Day - Thursday 16^th April 2026

Come and see where 90+ years of engineering heritage meets tomorrow’s safety solutions!

We’d be delighted to welcome you to PENTA Electrical Safety Products in Corsham for a special Made in the Southwest factory tour. Since our beginnings in 1932 as P&B Engineering—founded by Mr. Price and Mr. Belsham, we’ve grown into the UK’s most comprehensive electrical safety company, as part of the NOVARC group, offering the widest range of specialist safety products under one roof.

Today, we design, manufacture, and supply trusted solutions used by National Grid, Network Rail, Scottish Power, and all UK Distribution Network Operators. Thanks to our expanded portfolio, we now offer the most complete electrical safety range in the UK, including:

Temporary portable earthing systems
Voltage detectors
Buchholz relays
Advanced electrical safety solutions

…all backed by decades of expertise, British engineering, and a commitment to keeping people safe.

What’s on the day?

A friendly welcome and refreshments
A short, engaging look at our story, values, and the tech behind our products
The chance to meet our brilliant team and key partners
A behind-the-scenes tour of our factory. See precision assembly, modern testing labs, and even some cool tech like VR, Augmented Reality, and 3D printing in action
Great conversation and networking with fellow industry professionals

Whether you’re in the industry, curious about UK manufacturing, or just love seeing how things are made, this is a fantastic chance to explore, learn, and connect.

Spaces are limited,so come be part of an inspiring day at PENTA Electrical Safety Products!

Komugi Accelerates Lean Transformation at PENTA Electrical Safety Products

Penta UK (P&B Weir Electrical Ltd) — 29/04/2026

PENTA Electrical Safety Products is strengthening its Lean and Operational Excellence (OpEx) strategy under Project 2026 through the deployment of Komugi, a platform now central to improving flow, visibility, and execution across the business.

Early results show a shift from reactive, experience-led decisions to structured, fact-based daily control—enabling faster problem identification, improved alignment, and more consistent performance.

Real-Time Visibility Driving Flow

Komugi’s Customer and Manufacturing Order Tracking tools are now embedded across Manufacturing, Dispatch, Production Administration, and Customer Service. Live data provides a shared view of demand, order status, and constraints—reducing reliance on spreadsheets and manual follow-ups.

This enhanced visibility is enabling:

Clearer prioritisation of work
Faster identification of delays
Stronger coordination across Operations, Commercial, and Logistics

The result is a move away from expediting toward controlled, flow-based operations.

Standardisation and Data Discipline

A strong focus on standard work and data integrity has underpinned the rollout. Clear ownership of system use, combined with consistent routing, sequencing, and real-time updates, is reinforcing accountability at source.

Early insights have highlighted process gaps, which are being addressed as Lean improvement opportunities—further strengthening operational discipline.

Digital Visual Management and Gemba Evolution

Komugi live displays are now acting as digital visual management boards, providing real-time performance tracking and making issues visible earlier.

The introduction of smart boards is also enhancing Daily Gemba, enabling teams to capture and act on issues in real time, assign clear ownership, and track resolution. This marks a shift from status reporting to active operational control.

Improving End-to-End Performance

Beyond Manufacturing, Komugi is improving cross-functional flow. Enhanced visibility in Purchasing aligns supplier commitments with production needs, while improved stock and financial data access supports faster, more informed decision-making.

In parallel, Komugi-generated completion dates are being validated against existing planning methods, building confidence in forward planning and supporting a “validate first, standardise second” OpEx approach.

Supporting Sustainable Operational Excellence

Komugi is now established as a platform for continuous improvement at PENTA. It is increasing transparency, reinforcing standard work, exposing process instability, and enabling faster, more effective problem resolution.

As part of Project 2026, the integration of Komugi with digitally enabled Gemba is strengthening daily operational control while supporting long-term OpEx maturity—driving predictable flow, reduced waste, and sustainable performance.