Last year we let you know in a news article that the 18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations had been published, and the changes would be coming into effect from the 1st of January 2019.
This doesn’t mean that existing electrical installations designed and installed in accordance with earlier editions are now unsafe or require upgrading. It does however mean that any new installations, alterations or additions made from 1st January 2019 need to comply with these new regulations.
As a reminder some of the most important changes include:
- Transient Overvoltage Protection – a stipulation to provide surge protection where transient overvoltage (e.g. as caused by lightning strike) could cause serious injury or loss of human life, disruption to commercial and industrial activity or interruption of public services.
- Protection Against Thermal Effects – recommendation to install Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) in specified circumstances to reduce the risk of fire in final circuits of a fixed installation due to the effects of arc fault currents.
- Selection and Erection of Wiring Systems – requirements for methods of support of cables to be adequately supported against their premature collapse in the event of a fire. This now applies throughout the installation and not just in escape routes.
- Sections relating to inspection and testing have also been revised to align with changes in the 18th Edition.
When choosing electrical contractors to conduct work, inspect and test electrical installations, it’s advisable to check they are familiar with the new regulations. We recommend selecting contractors who are members of recognised trade bodies such as NICEIC, ECA and SELECT*. These trade bodies offer guidance and/or training to their members to ensure work complies with the latest regulations.
For further guidance you can speak to NIG’s Risk Control Team who are always willing to help. In addition you’ll find a wealth of information on a range of risk management topics in the trading support area on NIG.com or by clicking here.
*NICEIC – National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting, ECA – Electrical Contractors Association, SELECT – Electrical Contractors Association of Scotland