When is the cut-off date for using the 17th Edition IET Wiring Regulations?
We get a lot of questions regarding the cut-off date for using a previous edition, whenever a new edition of the IET Wiring Regulations is published.
BS 7671:2018 (18th Edition) was issued on 1 July 2018 and it replaced the previous version, BS 7671:2008+A3:2015 (17th Edition). It is applicable to any electrical design work completed after 31 December 2019. Installations which were designed before this date may be installed to the previous edition of the Wiring Regulations.
Designed means that the full detailed design has been completed.
What qualifications do I need to carry out electrical work?
The IET Wiring Regulations does not provide requirements for specific qualifications for electricians, and the IET cannot advise the exact qualifications which are required.
It is a requirement of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 that all persons carrying out electrical work must be competent to do so.
The term ‘skilled person’ is used throughout BS 7671:2018, they are different terms, but they all mean the same thing, the person carrying out the electrical work is required to have adequate education, training and practical skills.
This IET Wiring Matters article, ‘Electrical qualifications’ provides guidance.
Do I need to do the 18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations course?
There is no specific requirement in BS 7671:2018 to do 18th Edition training, but Regulation 134.1.1 states a ‘skilled person’ must possess adequate education.
It is likely to be the best way of being aware of the changes and demonstrating an understanding of the current requirements.
Members of trade associations should check their requirements, as they may have more onerous requirements. Most trade associations expect their members to have obtained the qualification within 12 months.
Can I get someone to certify my electrical work under Part P?
Certification by a registered third-party installer is acceptable under Part P of the Building Regulations, providing a third-party certifier is appointed.
They are required to inspect and test the work as necessary throughout the installation. This will ensure it has been installed in compliance with Part P of the Building Regulations.
What is the minimum distance to install electrical equipment from kitchen sinks or wash basins?
There aren’t any specific requirements in BS 7671:2018 for distances for electrical equipment to be installed from sinks. Regulation 133.3 states that electrical equipment shall be selected to withstand environmental conditions.
The NHBC has produced guidance on electrical fittings near cookers, sinks and wash basins.
How is BS 7671 developed?
The electrical industry is changing very quickly, it is unrecognisable from even 10 years ago, with the drive for energy efficiency, renewable generation, electric vehicle charging and new technologies emerging at an ever-increasing pace. The Regulations must be maintained to align with these changes and new installation practices.
BS 0:2011 is the British Standard for producing British Standards. Part of the process is the maintenance of the standard, which requires periodic review to incorporate any changes which have been made to the IEC or HD documents.
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is an International organisation responsible for producing International Wiring Regulations known as the IEC 60364 series. It is published in separate parts, rather than all together as we do with BS 7671.
The equivalent standard at European level is the CENELEC HD 60364 series, known as Harmonised Documents (HD). The United Kingdom is obliged to adopt the technical intent of agreements reached at European CENELEC HD level, Requirements that are UK specific and not derived from HD 60364, can be identified by the number 200, 201, 202 etc. For example, Regulation 412.1.201.
JPEL 64 is made up of a wide range of organisations representing UK industry, and is the UK national committee responsible for maintaining the IET Wiring Regulations.
This IET Wiring Matters article provides further guidance.
What is the green slime on my socket-outlets?
Green slime, sometimes called ‘green goo’ can occur at electrical accessories such as switches and socket-outlets. This is most likely to happen to cables that were manufactured in the 1960s and 1970s.
The green slime is degraded di-isoctyl phthalate - this is the result of a chemical reaction between the plasticiser, which was added to make the cable insulation more flexible and the copper conductor.
Unfortunately, where the electrical installation is severely affected by green slime, the only resolution is to rewire the installation and replace electrical accessories which have been affected.
There could be possible Health and Safety issues with retaining, working with and disposal of contaminated wiring and accessories. For further advice, seek advice from the Health and Safety Executive.
This IET Wiring Matters article provides further guidance.
What if an electrical contractor is unable to complete the installation?
An electrical installation certificate can only be issued by the person(s) carrying out the work. It covers all stages of the installation work, including elements which may be covered by the building fabric.
If an electrical contractor fails to complete the installation for any reason, it will be necessary to appoint a new contractor to complete the works. If some elements of the works have been covered by the building fabric at this stage, the contractor may have to issue an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to cover this part of the works as it will not be possible to fully inspect the installation.
What colour does control panel wiring need to be?
Wiring for control panels does not fall within the scope of BS 7671:2018. The best source of information is BS EN 60204-1 2018, safety of machinery - electrical equipment of machines which makes recommendations for identification by colour.
Can a plumber replace an electric shower?
It’s unlikely that unless specifically trained, and experienced to do so, a plumber will have insufficient knowledge and experience of electrical installations to carry out the work.
It is a requirement of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 that all persons carrying out electrical work must be competent to do so.
The term ‘skilled person’ is used throughout BS 7671:2018, they are different terms, but they all mean the same thing, the person carrying out the electrical work is required to have adequate education, training and practical skills.
An assessment of the existing installation will be required in accordance with Regulation 132.16, to determine if the existing installation, including the distributors equipment and earthing and bonding arrangements are adequate for the altered circumstances.
A location containing a bath or shower basin is considered a special location, installing a shower unit would be considered notifiable works, under part P of the Building Regulations.
Further information on Part P can be found on the IET website.
What is the minimum IP rating for an extractor fan in a shower?
A bathroom is considered a special location. Section 701 of BS 7671:2018 provides the requirements for locations containing a bath or shower.
Fixed and permanently connected current-using equipment, such as ventilation equipment is permitted for installation in zone 1, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Regulation 701.512.2 states the minimum IP rating required for equipment installed in zones 1 and 2 of a bathroom is IPX4 or IPX5 if water jets are present.
This BEAMA guide to IP codes provides further guidance.