The Confederation of Aerial Industries Limited (CAI) is the largest representative trade body for the TV and Radio Signal Reception Industry and was established in 1978. The membership ranges from the sole proprietor TV aerial installer right through to the UK’s largest manufacturers and distributors of signal reception/distribution equipment. It provides a comprehensive self-regulatory framework and extensive education and skills programme
Membership to the CAI:
Restricted to companies or individuals that can prove competence in working to the mandatory codes of practice and conduct, and have paid an annual subscription. All prospective applications are required to be visited by the CAI’s assessment officer prior to acceptance into membership by the CAI’s Board of Directors.
There are 1000 member companies who have all proved competent to work to the CAI codes. This includes;
- The ability to work safely
- Carrying the required level of insurances according to the category of work involved and status of employees
- Being able to measure relevant signals if installing antennas or cabled distribution systems
Being open to inspection and investigation at any time with regard to work standards or in the event of any complaint Offer a 12-month guarantee on all completed work or supplied goods.
CAI plus scheme and the digital switchover:
The UK television broadcasting system is undergoing a major change. Since the new millennium, Digital TV has been available to most of the UK but now the whole of the UK is gearing up to make the full change from old ‘analogue’ TV to the new Digital TV future.
How do consumers prepare for the Digital Switchover?
The 3 common ways to switch to digital are:
1) Via your roof-top aerial by either adapting your existing TV with a Freeview box, or replace your TV with a new IDTV.
2) Adapt your TV by a satellite receiver and dish.
3) Via your local cable operator.
The CAI has launched its CAI plus scheme to create a higher membership category for engineers to gain recognition as qualified digital installers. This will indicate to the public that CAI engineers are trained, regulated to a high standard and are professional and that the Confederation has every regard for their abilities for the digital switchover. CAI plus members, in addition to current membership requirements, will be required to:
1) Undergo a satisfactory Criminal Records check. (These are undertaken because engineers will be entering customer’s homes).
2) Have certification proving CAI minimum standard liability insurance.
3) Have certification proving Working Safely at Heights course has been completed satisfactorily (Which has a shelf life of 3 years)
CAI plus members are available countrywide to assist you with the Digital Switchover. To contact a member or for further information on the Confederation and the plus scheme please visit our website at www.cai.org.uk or call the CAI office on (01923) 803030.