Following the publication of Amendment 2 of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, the industry now has a six-month period until 28th September 2022 before the changes must begin to be implemented.
In the intervening time, electrical contractors need to ensure they are up-to-speed with the adjustments set out in the new regulations.
There are recommendations for the increased use of arc fault detection and surge protection devices. The new regulations further strengthen previous rules and now define, for example, that arc fault detection is mandatory on all socket circuits up to and including 32 Amps in higher risk residential buildings, houses of multiple occupation, purpose-built student accommodation, and care homes.
Certificate documentation, identification labelling, and testing schedules have also been covered in the new regulations. Changes to documentation, identification and certification responsibilities are sensible and practical enhancements. They continue to underpin safety standards, but now also assist the electrical contractor when it comes to operational efficiency by removing an element of the administrative burden they typically grapple with on a day-to-day basis.
Ian Smith, Country Marketing Leader from Hager, comments: “At Hager, we welcome and fully support the publication of Amendment 2 of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations. It provides further clarity around important safety-driven issues such as the mandatory use of arc fault detection on all sockets up to and including 32 Amps in higher-risk building scenarios, and the reinforced use of surge protection devices.
“In addition, simplifying the tasks installers currently must perform around documentation and labelling is also a positive step forward for the industry. The changes provide practical on-the-job benefits that electrical contractors will welcome.
“We will continue to support and advise the industry through this transitional period by providing access to relevant Amendment 2-related information, technical expertise, training, and product guidance so electrical contractors can be confident they continue to comply.
“Hager Academy online offers convenient access to relevant training modules and webinars that busy contractors can log on to when it best suits them. In addition, Amendment 2 onsite training courses at our bespoke facility in Telford are available for electricians wishing to invest the time so they understand the full implications of today’s published Amendment 2 changes.”
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