AEI Cables has launched a scheme that offers contractors advice on how to avoid buying faulty cables.

The web-based Setting the Standards initiative advises AEI Cable customers on a number of steps they can take to buy functioning cables, including finding products marked with a manufacturer’s name.

Contractors should also check that the cable standard is quoted and the cable has been independently third-party tested, AEI said.

“The number and cross-sectional area of the cores should be clearly stated along with the voltage rating.

“There should also be a clearly marked industry standard cable reference number."

Clive Sharp, commercial director of AEI Cables, said poor quality cables were a hidden danger and difficult to detect on appearance alone.

“We’ve discussed this issue with many customers who tell us they need information to guide them away from the dangers of purchasing or installing faulty cables. We are therefore providing a range of online materials to help them further understand this issue, before they make important purchasing decisions.

“It is difficult to recognise poor quality cable, and by its nature we are talking about a hidden danger that is difficult to detect on appearance alone. As raw materials reach record price levels, some manufacturers are cutting corners and using less copper.

“There is very often a high price to pay for installing faulty cable either through injury or in having to retro-fit.”

According to AEI, common issues emerging in the marketplace include undersized conductors, wrong size armour wires, no identification on the sheath of the cable manufacturer and false or misleading information on the cable, labels and packaging.

For further information visit the AEI Cables website at www.aeicables.co.uk