NAPIT is reminding the electrical industry of the importance of making sure that they are up to date with the latest edition of the Wiring Regulations, after BS 7671:2018 officially came into force on January 1st, 2019.

Key changes of 18th Edition include:

  • Surge protection devices (SPDs) with mandatory requirements
  • Arc fault detection devices (AFDDs) with recommendations only
  • Changes to Selectivity, previously discrimination, regarding the selection of overcurrent and residual current devices will now require a more detailed design of the installation
  • Closer scrutiny of the compatibility of a range of devices, when included in a Distribution Board or Consumer Unit to make sure the manufacturer approves their use
  • Model forms have been revised, especially the Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate. The Test and Inspection Schedules have also had significant changes
  • Any new, additions, alteration work or electrical installation condition reports now requires the use of 18th Edition certification or reports.

Note: BSI/IET recently released a corrigendum for BS 7671:2018 highlighting eleven corrections. The corrigendum to BS 7671:2018 is available for download on the IET’s website.

A wide range of products, services, events and training courses are available from NAPIT to make sure that you are ready to work to the new Regulations: 

NAPIT EXPO Technical Roadshows

NAPIT are continuing their NAPIT EXPO Technical Roadshows throughout 2019 to provide first-hand updates of the changes made to BS 7671:2018 and to provide guidance on how the changes will affect installers in the industry.

To view the first eight locations and dates, visit http://www.napitexpo.co.uk/events/. The event is free for all to attend and you do not have to be a NAPIT member to register!

Training

To book an 18th Edition course call the sales team on 0330 9000 700.

18th Edition Documentation & Certification

To ensure that the electrical industry is working to and complying with the latest version of the IET’s Wiring Regulations, NAPIT Direct have a dedicated online bookstore for all your 18th Edition publication needs www.napitdirect.co.uk/18th-edition/.

Codebreakers

Crowned as the winner of the Top Product Award in Professional Electrician & Installer Magazine’s 2018 Annual Awards, the updated Codebreakers book features hundreds of new observations and codes, four brand new sections and new information directly tailored for the social housing sector. The entire guide has also been updated to align with the 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations, BS 7671:2018. To purchase your copy, visit www.napitdirect.co.uk. The Codebreakers guide will also be available for purchase at all NAPIT EXPO events and ELEX shows.

NAPIT Desktop

NAPIT Desktop software has also been updated in accordance with BS 7671:2018 18th Edition Wiring Regulations. Forms such as BS 7671:2018, Electrical Installation Certificate and Electrical Installation Condition Report can be completed and edited online or offline and can be previewed before issuing to clients.

The basic version of NAPIT Desktop is FREE to all NAPIT registered members and allows quick and easy Competent Person Scheme Notifications. NAPIT members can trial NAPIT Desktop for 60 days by visiting www.napitdesktop.co.uk.

NAPIT’s chief technical officer, Frank Bertie, commented “As the 18th Edition is now in force, it’s important the electrical industry gets up to speed. We provide NAPIT members with all the support they require to do their job, ensuring that they maintain the highest standards when designing, installing and preserving installations in our ever-expanding industry.”