Electrical safety cannot be forgotten when it comes to keeping both people and property safe from potential hazards. Adhering to regulations, such as the BS 7671 Wiring Regulations, is essential to mitigate the risks associated with electrical installations. These regulations are the foundation of safe and compliant electrical systems, reducing the likelihood of fires, shocks or other electrical incidents.
BS 7671:2018 is the formal title for the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations and provides requirements for electrical installation and safety throughout the UK. The regulations change at periodic intervals to be in line with technological advances, safety enhancements, and feedback from the industry.
Significant changes to regulations, including the recent 3rd Amendment to the BS 7671 Wiring Regulations, have recently been implemented. These changes are crucial for ensuring electrical safety and compliance in buildings across the UK. Meeting these changes helps to ensure you are compliant with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, the importance of which cannot be underestimated.
Some of the key changes include:
- Introduction of stricter requirements for Residual Current Devices (RCDs) to ensure enhanced protection against electric shock.
- New guidelines on the use of surge protection devices (SPDs) to mitigate risks associated with temporary over-voltage.
- The use of fire-resistant cable fixings and supports is now mandatory. Cables should be installed in a way that prevents them from collapsing prematurely during a fire, allowing escape routes to remain unobstructed.
- The amendment also emphasises the importance of thorough documentation and regular testing of electrical systems, to guarantee their effectiveness during an emergency.
- Electrical installations are to be designed with energy efficiency in mind. This includes the selection of energy-efficient equipment and the implementation of energy-saving measures.
At CamSafe, we are committed to the highest levels of service and make sure our systems meet the most stringent levels of safety and compliance. Our skilled team always stays abreast of industry updates and are rigorous when implementing the necessary changes. Contact us today to make sure your next project is compliant: https://camsafesecurity.co.uk/contact-us/
