What Changes Were Made Under Amendment 3 of the Wiring Regulations?
As of January 2015, Amendment 3 of the IET Wiring Regulations was published and brought several changes to existing regulations.
On 1st July 2015, it became a requirement that all electrical installations designed and periodically inspected comply with the updated regulations.
It is important to note the following:
Even if you have attended a 17th edition course previously, you are required to attend the updated course to ensure that you are aware of essential changes. Those with the previous 2382-12 qualification must attend the new course, 2382-15.
To help you get started before you attend your course, here is a basic summary of the changes which have been put in place under Amendment 3.
New Third Amendment Numbering System
Under the new regulations, UK-specific regulations are recognised and designated with their own numbering system.
In the new book, these numbering changes apply:
- CENELEC requirements – .100 number
- UK-specific requirements – .200 number
Revisions to Chapter 41 – Protection Against Electric Shock
It is now required that socket outlets of up to 20A, in all installations, must have RCD protection applied.
This new regulation applies at all times, with these exceptions allowed for:
- Specific labelled or otherwise suitably identified socket outlet provided for connection of a particular item of equipment or,
- Where, other than for an installation in a dwelling, a documented risk assessment determines that the RCD protection is not necessary
In addition, the maximum earth fault loop impedances stated in tables 41.2, 41.3, 41.4 and 41.6 have been revised.
These changes are made to reflect the Cmin minimum voltage factor, taking account of voltage variations depending on various different factors.
Revisions to Chapter 42 – Protection Against Thermal Effects
With consumer unit fires on the rise, Regulation 421.1.200 (UK only) has been created to ensure that consumer units (plus other, similar switchgear) must have their enclosure manufactured from non-combustible material.
Alternatively the system can be enclosed inside a cabinet or enclosure constructed from non-combustible material in compliance with Regulation 132.12.
Note: this regulation does not officially come into circulation until the 1st January 2016.
Revisions to Chapter 41 – Common Rules
Section 551 has been revised, and is related to compliance with all standards.
It is now requires that all equipment is suitable for nominal voltage, and requires certain information to be noted on Electrical Installation Certificates.
Revisions to Chapter 52 – Selection and Erection of Wiring Systems
521.200 (UK only) has been implemented and gives system requirements for the the methods of support of wiring systems in escape routes.
In addition, the selection and erection of wiring system regulations have been rewritten, with references to “under the supervision of a skilled or instructed person” removed from the text.
Revisions to Chapter 55 – Other Equipment
A new, dedicated section for auxiliary circuits has been inserted into this chapter. Each type of auxiliary circuit is defined in part 2.
Revisions to Section 559 – Luminaires and Lighting Installation
Minor changes to this section – the requirements for outdoor lighting installations and extra low voltage lighting installations have been moved to their own sections. Section 714 concerns outdoor lighting installations, while Section 715 concerns extra low voltage lighting.
Revisions to Part 7 – Special Installation or Locations
Specifically relates to Section 701 – Locations Including a Bath or Shower
RCD protection must now be provided for these applications:
- Low voltage circuits serving the location
- Low voltage circuits passing through zones 1 and 2 not serving the location
Appendix 3 Revisions – Time/Current Characteristics of Overcurrent Protective Devices and RCDs
Includes changes in accordance with maximum earth fault loop impedance, taking into account Cmin factor given in CLC/TR50480:2011.
Appendix 6 Revisions – 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 and associated notes 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.
How Can I Learn More About the Changes?
We regularly run City and Guilds 2382-15 courses throughout the year to ensure you have full compliance with Amendment 3 of the 17th Edition Regulations.
You can view more information on the course by visiting the 17th Edition Amendment 3 course page.
