What are The Amendment 2 Wiring Changes?
In the new Amendment 2 of BS 7671:2018 18th Edition EIT Wiring Regulation rescently came in to effect in March 28, 2022.
BS 7671: 2018A2 is the latest set of regulations that every electrical design and installation should refer to. However if we read in BS7671 written by EIT:
” The Regulations apply to the design, erection, and verification of electrical installations, also additions and alterations to existing installations. Existing installations that have been installed in accordance with earlier editions of the Regulations may not comply with this edition in every respect. This does not necessarily mean that they are unsafe for continued use or require upgrading. “
Latest changes to requirements are:
1. New terms are introduced in part 2 of BS7671
Several definitions have been modified and the most important are:
- CONSUMER – an entity using electricity. This can be Homeowner or business.
- PRODUCER – an entity generating electrical energy by PV panels or wind turbine.
- PROSUMER – an entity generating and using electrical energy.
- PEI – PROSUMER ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION – low voltage installations connected with distribution network.
2. All Sockets Outlets
In Regulation 411.3.3 will be altered to put three instances where a Residual Circuit Device (RCD) is required:
- On socket outlets up to and including 32A in locations where it’s used by ordinary people, children, or disabled users.
- On socket outlets up to and including 32A in other locations.
- On mobile equipment not exceeding 32A for outdoor use.
New Methods for Determining Overvoltage protection
In Regulation 443.4.1 has been amended to require protection against transient overvoltage. Protection must be in place where the consequence caused by the overvoltage can result in any of the following:
- Serious injury to or loss of human life
- Failure of a safety device
- Significant financial or data loss
Surge Protection Devices
Surge Protection Devices (SPD) will be a requirement for any structure with fire alarm systems, emergency lights, or similar systems. Domestic electricians will now need to consider the cost of installing an SPD against the damage that can occur if they don’t install one and make the customer aware of the potential consequences if surge protection is ignored.
Is Surge Protection a Requirement?
If a customer decides against using surge protection, likely due to the additional cost, the risk factors need to put into writing, detailing the potential injuries and damages that can occur without the use of an SPD. The document must then be signed by both parties, with the customer accepting ultimate liability.
Although the SPD is not a “MUST be” fitted device, it is seen as “good practise”to install one.
AFDDs conforming to BS EN 62606 shall be provided for single phase AC final circuits supplying socket outlets with a rated Current Not Exceeding 32A in the following:
- Higher Risk Residential Buildings (HRRB) (over 18M high or in excess of 6 storeys)
- Homes in Multiple occupation (HMO)
- Purpose Built Student accommodation
- Care homes
Technically Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) are only a requirement in the above 4 installations as listed in 421.1.7.
New Chapter on Prosumers
In the latest BS7671:A2 there is a new chapter on prosumers. This chapter addresses prosumers’ low voltage electrical installation (PEI). It discusses systems that can produce and store energy and addresses using and delivering electricity locally.
This chapter discusses the requirements, design, build, and verification of all low-voltage electrical installations.