Do electricians need 18th Edition?

David Banks
Authored by David Banks
Posted: Friday, July 9, 2021 - 17:46

The 18th edition is meant for electricians. To respond to whether electricians need the 18th edition in the UK, the answer is a resounding Yes. All electricians in the UK must have completed the 18th edition training. The term 18th edition is used while referring to the BS 7671:2018, the British Standard of Wiring Regulations. Also known as wiring regs, the regs, BS 7671, and 18th edition wiring regs, this edition is the latest guideline for installing and maintaining electrical appliances and fittings. This edition also includes the newest alterations and modifications.

The first guideline document was published in 1882 and has been modified and updated since then to include all the modern technological and safety changes. The 18th edition does not come under the legal tender. Still, it contains the guidelines and processes that all electricians in the UK need according to the Electricity at Work Regulations requirements.

Is An 18th Edition Course Needed?

Yes, it is best to complete an 18th edition course for Electricians. Electricians in the UK must comply with all the rules, regulations, and guidelines set out in the 18th edition. The study is in-depth with enough detailing to answer all issues and outstanding questions about the safety, installation, and maintenance of electrical wiring and systems.

The training course imparts the knowledge that is needed for electrical work in the UK. Employed and self-employed electricians must demonstrate a complete understanding of the rules and regulations to be eligible to work in the UK.

Electricians must ensure that all electrical installations and designs are according to the safety regulations mentioned in the BS 7671. Following the guidelines provide that property, people, and livestock are protected from electrical fatalities at all times.

Who Should Complete The 18th Edition Course?

All electricians in the UK must complete the 18th edition course since it is beneficial in understanding the rules and regulations. Beginners and experienced professionals need to comply with the 18th edition standards. Experienced electricians should also complete the refresher course and update their safety regulations and maintenance installations.

The guidelines were set out by the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) and explain the installation and wiring of electrical appliances and also any updates or additions.

The 18th edition (BS 7671) was launched in July 2018 but did not supersede the 17th edition till January 2019. The BS 7671:2018 is now the only accepted standard for wiring regulations in the UK. All electricians in the UK must demonstrate they have the necessary knowledge.

The IET Wiring Regulations is a detailed book that needs to be studied by all electricians. While it is impossible to follow it line to line, it is necessary to understand the safety regulation and features for electrical installations and wiring. All electricians (novice and experienced) must understand and reference these rules to real-life situations.

Electricians who do not understand and comply with the rules and regulations in the 18th edition may find it extremely difficult to get secure jobs with corporates, large businesses, and agencies. Since completing this course is a selection criterion, there may be a chance that the work may go to someone else (who has completed the course and is updated on all the mandatory installation and maintenance techniques).

What About The NVQ Level 3?

People who have completed the NVQ Level 3 still have to complete the 18th edition to qualify for electrician job roles. The ECS Check Systems also requires the 18th edition course. People wishing to register as domestic installers on the competent worker's scheme also must complete the 18th edition (despite having completed the NVQ Level 3).

What Will The 18th Edition Course Cover?

  • Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs): Chapter 42 - AFDDs use microprocessors to find electric arcs in circuits. Arc faults could pose significant fire risks. AFDDS must be installed at distribution boards and consumer units. This rule is new to the UK but has been in effect in the US and Canada.
  • RCD Protection: RCDs protect users and installers from shocks. As per the new updates in the 18th edition, <30mA RCDs must be fitted on all 32A sockets.
  • Energy Efficiency: Appendix 17 (New): Appendix 17 deals with circuit design and installation recommendations for decreased electrical energy consumption.
  • Overvoltage Protection: Risk assessments must be carried out for the determination of overvoltage. Doing this can prevent injuries and loss of life. If risk assessment is not carried out, overvoltage protection must be carried out.
  • Metal Cable Supports: All wiring installations (indoor and outdoor) must have metal cable supports.