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About Us

CAI was formed in 1978 to represent, and establish standards in, the rapidly growing TV signal reception industry.

Although the technologies our members work with have developed beyond anyone’s expectations since we formed, our core strengths remain the same. We set industry standards, and vet applications to join.  Consumers who use a CAI member can be confident that the member they choose will have the skills and expertise necessary to complete their work to the expected standard.

We now represent businesses of all sizes from sole traders to multinationals, who specialise in many different areas of our industry. Members work in both the domestic and commercial sectors.  Whether the CAI member is an installing company, consultant, distributor or manufacturer, they are all experts in their area of the audio, video and data reception and distribution industry.

Our Focus

  • Raising standards by establishing mandatory codes of practice and conduct

  • Developing our members’ skills and knowledge, through our education and training programmes

  • Supporting our members’ businesses with access to exclusive benefits and support

  • Representing our industry at local, regional and national level, promoting our standards to Government, business, developers, private landlords, specifiers, local authorities and housing associations

CAI Member Responsibilities

  • Work to standards outlined in the CAI Codes of Practice and British Standards.

  • Be continually re-assessed to ensure standards are maintained.

  • Use quality, tested, equipment verified by the CAI Certification Scheme.

  • Guarantee all installations and equipment used for 12 months.

  • Be fully insured to cover all aspects of the business scope.

  • Prove you employ a competent and reputable work force.

Customers are more likely to choose a CAI member when they understand a member’s responsibilities.

Helping the Future of the Industry

Training Academy

We offer a comprehensive education & skills programme, covering everything from basic aerial and satellite courses, right through to home networking, fibre and advanced IRS training.

11 of our training programmes carry City & Guilds Accreditation.  The courses are designed to develop skills and competencies necessary to meet the demands of the signal reception and networks installation industry. The courses are delivered by professionals with real hands-on experience in our industry, at well-equipped centres around the United Kingdom.

The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) recognises our Foundation Diploma in Signal Reception as being a gateway to obtaining a CSCS card.   These cards are now essential to gain access to construction sites to carry out service or trade work such as installing signal reception systems.

Product Certification Schemes

CAI certification scheme specifies the minimum standards for the technical performance of products based on the specific technical parameters for satisfactory broadcast reception.  The scheme insists the product testing is carried out by an independent test house to demonstrate that it meets the required standards. CAI certification covers both aerials and cable and is a standard that is commonly specified within many installation contracts.

TrustMark

TrustMark is the Government endorsed quality scheme that directs consumers to reputable local tradesmen. TrustMark operates a quality mark framework under which Scheme Operators represent businesses that work in the repair, maintenance and home improvement sectors.

Members of the operator organisation, who can fulfil all the criteria, are approved to carry the TrustMark logo and recruit reputable and trustworthy tradesmen. CAI is the only scheme operator for the signal reception and home entertainment industry. CAI members gaining TrustMark accreditation will provide homeowners with an extra level of confidence that they can employ reliable, safe and competent trades people.

Getmeviewing

CAI has a dedicated consumer website, www.getmeviewing.org.uk, aimed at directing potential customers needing audio, video or data reception and distribution advice or services to a CAI member. The consumer can search by geographical location as well as by member services, to identify the most relevant members for their enquiry.

Support

CAI has many Supporting Partners and is a support reference point for many industry organisations including:

  • BBC

  • Digital Mobile Spectrum Ltd

  • Everyone TV

  • Freesat

  • Freeview

  • Ofcom

  • Restore TV

  • Sky

  • The Digital TV Group (DTG)

As well as numerous suppliers and manufacturers of audio visual equipment.