In January 2015 the 17th edition of the BS7671 wiring regulations were published. Any electrical installations designed or installed after this date must comply with the newest regulations. The most notable changes are:
- UK specific regulations
- New special locations
- Changes to electrical test certificates
- New specific regulations
- Expanded definitions
- Selective layout changes
UK Specific Wiring Regulations
The new regulations that are specific to the UK regulations end with the number .200. For a full list of the regulations click this link to buy a copy from Amazon.
Wiring Regulations Definitions
The definitions have been expanded and modified this includes some new symbols. A complete list of the new symbols and abbreviations has has been included. References to an electrical “competent person” have been replaced with electrically “instructed person” and “skilled person”. These definitions have been reflected throughout the new wiring regulations.
Protection Against Electric Shocks
The new regulations have introduced a requirement for RCD protection for socket outlets up to 20 amps for all installations. There are permitted exceptions:
“a specific labelled or suitably identified socket outlet provided for connection of a particular item or equipment”
or
“where, other than for an installation in a dwelling, a documented risk assessment determines that the RCD protection is not necessary”
Protection Against Thermal Effects
Due to a rising number of reports of fires caused by consumer units in domestic residences Regulation 421.1.201 (UK only) requires consumer units and similar switch gear to have their enclosures manufactured from non-combustable materials or be enclosed in a cabinet of non combustable materials complying with regulation 132.12. This regulation came into effect in January 2016 to allow manufacturers time to facilitate the changes.
Common Rules
Section 551 concerns compliance with standards. It requires all equipment to be suitable for the nominal voltage and also requires certain information to be noted on the electrical installation certificate.
Lighting Installation
The requirements fro outdoor lighting installations and extra low voltage lighting have been moved to sections 714 & 715.
Model forms for certification and reporting
The schedule of inspections (for new work only) has been replaced by examples of items requiring inspection during initial verifications (which must be appended to the Electrical Installation Certificate).
A small number of changes to the Electrical Installation Condition Report have been made, including a requirement to carry out an inspection within an accessible roof space where electrical equipment is present in that roof space.For more information about the changes to the electrical wiring regulations visit the 3rdamendment website
