Everything you need to know about the 18th Edition

By Suzanne Leusby / 22/01/2021 / Electrical

The electrical industry is full of specialised terms and abbreviations with the 18th Edition arguably being one of the most known and important ones. Whether you’re a beginner wanting to know more about what the 18th Edition is or somebody in the industry wanting to know where it came from and hoping to refresh themselves, the below information can help.

Male Electrician testing a breaker.

What is the 18th Edition?

If you’re an electrician or hoping to become an electrician, you’ll have heard of the term 18th edition. This term is used when referring to the latest British standards (BS 7671:2018) of wiring regulations.

The 18th Edition (also known as BS 7671 or wiring regs) is a British Standard for the installation of electrical wiring. The guidelines set out by IET (Institute of Engineering and Technology) cover the installation of new electrical appliances and maintenance of existing ones, including any additions or alterations.

IET published these regulations in 2018 to replace the 17th Edition. Regulations have been altered to fit with the latest technologies and safety procedures. Wiring regulations have been an important part of any electrician job since first published in 1882. They have continued to be adapted accordingly and are still a vital requirement for UK electricians.

Who needs the 18th Edition?

It is extremely important that all British electricians have a full understanding of the 18th Edition and how it works. They should be able to apply regulations to any job they’re carrying out to ensure electrical fixtures being installed or designed are safe, protecting people and properties involved. It can be dangerous and seriously damage a businesses reputation if guidelines aren’t followed correctly.

Should I do an 18th edition course?

It is a requirement that all electricians comply with the regulations set out in the 18th Edition. Therefore, it would be extremely beneficial to complete a training course on this.

The 18th Edition is an in-depth document which goes into detail about many regulations. Nobody expects a person to know it word for word! Although, it is key to know the full contents and be able to apply regulations to certain areas of work, referencing correctly.

Completing an 18th Edition course will ensure you have a full understanding of the BS 7671:2018 wiring regulations. You will also gain certification – the 18th Edition is one of the most highly recognised qualifications for employers, having this qualification may open more doors for you. Not having this qualification can make it difficult to secure work – many large companies require this qualification as a bare minimum from potential candidates.

What’s the difference between 17th and 18th Edition?

As mentioned, the 18th Edition replaced the 17th Edition in 2018 – this came with some substantial changes. If you know the 17th Edition well and have the correct qualification, you will still need to know any changes and have an 18th Edition qualification. Key changes include:

Chapter 41 – Protection against electrical shock.

(There have been several significant changes to section 411.)

Regulation 411.3.3 has been modified and now states that <30mA RCDs will now be a requirement on sockets rated up to 32A (previously 20A)

A new regulation has been added (411.3.4) and obliges that additional protection by an RCD is provided for all final AC circuits which supply luminaires into a domestic premise.

Chapter 42 (protection against thermal effects) has also been substantially modified. Regulation 421.1.7 has been introduced, this recommends using Arc fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) to reduce the risks of fire in AC final circuits, caused by arc fault currents.

Chapter 52 – Selection and erection of wiring systems

Regulation 521.10.202 now requires all cables to be sufficiently supported against collapse in the event of a fire. Previously, this was only in escape routes and is now throughout.

 Section 772 – Electrical Vehicle Charging Installation

Regulation 722.411.4.1, which covers the use of PME supply, has seen many changes. These include alterations to the requirements for external influences, socket outlets, connectors and RCDs.

A new appendix (appendix 17 – energy efficiency) has been added. This provides recommendations for the design and erection of electrical installations.

19th Edition

The 19th Edition is due to be released in 2022 – we will see more amendments and new chapters to fit new technologies and safety measures. Although there is a new edition coming, it’s still necessary to be qualified for the 18th edition. Once the 19th edition arrives, we’re expecting our courses to work as followed:

  • One-day refreshment course if you already have full 18th edition qualification
  • Three-day course if you have not got your 18th edition qualification

Whilst the above provides a good overview of the 18th Edition, it’s advised to take part in an 18th edition training course. whether it’s a refresher course for people already in the industry or the full course for beginners, having this qualification is vital for employment. Our 18th Edition courses are mainly theory-based; however, we believe real training in real classrooms using up to date equipment is the best way to learn.

View our available 18th Edition courses here

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