UK wiring standards are designed to ensure consistent and safe working practices on wiring and electrical installations. The regulations specify how fixed cabling should be installed within buildings, as well as adequate testing practices to ensure compliance. The regulations were first issued around 140 years ago. Since then, they’ve been codified as BS7671, with many iterations over the years. The latest is the 18th edition, amendment 2, and all practising electricians need to be aware of its contents.
The Wiring Regulations
The wiring regulations, often known simply as “the regs”, are specified in British Standard BS7671. It is the national standard in the UK for safe wiring in domestic, industrial, and commercial properties. While it is not itself a legal document, it is used to comply with the legal requirements of the Electricity at Work Regulations. It is treated as an authority in the industry.
The specification covers fixed wiring circuits at nominal voltages up to 1000V AC or 1500V DC otherwise known as Low Voltage (LV). It is also relevant for extra low voltage (ELV) ranges and applies to a variety of frequencies. The latest edition, the 18th, was published in July 2018 and became effective from January 2019.
The Importance Of BS7671
For anyone working in electrical wiring design or installation, adherence to BS7671 is essential to avoid harm to people, property and livestock. It also helps to maintain the proper and safe functioning of electrical equipment. However, the entirety of the regulations is a hefty document. It’s not necessary to have it memorised, but it is important to know what it contains and to be able to refer to it where necessary for various applications.
Typically, electrical contractors are expected to have undertaken BS7671 training. A BS7671 qualification is required by most large companies and those without it may struggle to find work. So it’s not just safety, but your livelihood that’s at stake if you don’t keep up to date with the regs.
Changes In The Latest 2nd Amendment
BS7671 has periodic amendments to keep up-to-date with current technologies and safety standards. Among other things, key changes in the 18th Edition Amendment 2 include:
1) Protection against electric shock. This includes a number of changes covering metal pipes, thermal effects, arc fault detection and others.
2) Selection and erection of wiring systems. There are significant updates here regarding robustness in the event of fire.
3) Electric vehicle charging installations. Concerns the use of a PME supply, plus updates to the requirements for external influences, RCDs, socket outlets and connectors.
4) A new Part 8 defines the requirements for ‘Prosumers Installations’.
BS7671 Training Courses From PTT
It is not enough simply to have the BS7671 requirements explained. Adequate training provides the reassurance and regulatory compliance that most employers or buyers will insist on for electrical contractors. At PTT, we offer the City and Guilds qualification 2382-22, which includes the latest BS7671, amendment 2. This ensures electricians and allied professionals remain compliant while improving their understanding.
Please speak with one of our admissions team today about course availability, or a copy of our guide How To Become An Electrician With PTT for an overview of our core electrical training courses.
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