It is now just one year away until the 18th Edition of the IET Wiring regulations is published. The new standard is expected to be available on or around July 1, 2018 with electrical contractors and electricians given a six month transition period to get up to speed with the changes. From January 1 2019, it will then be a requirement that all electrical installations designed after this date comply with BS 7671:2018, 18th Edition (2018). An ability to show a level of understanding and awareness of the changes should be a priority for everyone involved in the electrotechnical industry. NICEIC will be at the forefront of providing electrical contractors with everything they will need to know – from updates on the latest developments and training packages to suit all contractors’ needs. IMPORTANT DATES DPC availability and commenting period June - August 2017 Draft for Public Comment (DPC) closing date 23rd August 2017 ET and committees review DPC comments August – November 2017 Changes approved; final draft produced, reviewed and proofed November 2017 – April 2018 Official JPEL/64 committee sign off 4th April 2018 BS 7671 new edition available for purchase 1st July 2018 CHANGE IS IN THE AIR  As for likely changes in the 18th Edition, we can expect some or all of the following:

• Clarity over where relevant utility services entering a building need not be connected to the protective equipotential bonding
• Additional requirements for AC final circuits
• Changes relating to devices for isolation and switching
• Clarity in respect to regulations relating to wiring systems in escape routes
• Potential amendments to the requirements relating to overvoltage and the selection and erection of surge protection devices
• Considerations on how an electrical installer can prevent the appearance of a dangerous touch voltage in the event of the loss of the main connection to earth
• Part 6 to take account of the IEC 60364-6:2016 standard
• Potential for section relating to electrical installations in caravan/camping parks and similar locations to align with IEC 60364-708
• Changes imposed by IEC 60364-722 – Supplies for electric vehicles
• A possible section reflecting the requirements of IEC 60364-7-730
• Consideration of how design can affect the efficiency of electrical installations. The thoughts are that the optimum use of electrical energy can be assisted by appropriate design and installation practice, whereby an electrical installation can provide the required levels of safety as well as the lowest levels of electrical consumption
• As in previous BS 7671 editions and amendments, any changes to Appendix 6 model forms of certification will be incorporated to reflect changes within the body of regulations, definitions, and any additional requirements imposed by changes that reflect HD inclusions

Source: http://www.niceic.com/contractor/essentials/18th-edition