Extensive changes to the Electrical Industry - Have your say!

“Today marks an important day for the electrotechnical industry as the Draft for Public Comment (DPC) surrounding Amendment 2 of BS 7671: 2018 is released,” said John O’Neill, NICEIC and ELECSA’s Director of Technical Excellence

“Providing the first glimpse of the proposed changes to the regulations which are planned to be introduced in March 2022, this document is vitally important in shaping how our industry operates.

“Outlining some extensive changes, which, if implemented, could have significant ramifications for all electrical contractors, the DPC provides everyone within the electrotechnical industry with an opportunity to put forward their views, and I urge all to engage and comment.

“It is our collective responsibility to ensure we form part of the process when it comes to important introductions such as this. As such, we will be working with NICEIC and ELECSA members in the coming weeks to explore the document in greater detail.”

A top-line summary of some of the proposed changes shown within the DPC are listed below:

•    The introduction of a new Part 8 – Functional Requirements. This includes Chapter 82: Prosumer’s Low-Voltage Electrical Installations.  
•    Changes to the regulation surrounding AFDDs on circuits less than 32A
•    Removal of the risk assessment method for omitting additional RCD protection on socket outlets
•    Alterations to the model forms situated in appendix 6
•    New cut-off date for complying with the 18th Edition
 
•    Alterations surrounding SPD requirements
•    New foundation earthing requirements
•    New protected area requirements (protected escape routes)

 John O’Neill continued:

“While it is important to remember that ultimately the proposed changes have been brought forward to improve safety and provide alignment with both International and European standards, we must ensure implementation is both practical and achievable for contractors.”

To view the full DPC, please visit:
 https://standardsdevelopment.bsigroup.com/projects/2019-02917#/section.  

Once there you will be prompted to log in – if you do not have a BSi account, you will have the option to register for one for free. Please note this is a requirement for viewing the DPC and providing comment.
The closing date for comment is December 11, 2020