Changes to enhance focus and safety

By the time the first amendment is published, it will be three years since the introduction of the 17th edition, and there is much rumour and speculation on what the amendment will include, and in particular about the introduction of complete new sections of significance to the healthcare sector.However, as Eastwood Park’s electrical training specialist Peter Handforth explains, it should not be viewed with too much trepidation.

The 17th edition IEE Wiring Regulations, distinguished by its red cover, was a long overdue update on the 16th edition Wiring Regulations, which was first introduced in 1991. All industrial, commercial, and domestic electrical installations must conform to the Regulations, and the 17th edition, published in 2008, contained substantial changes over the previous edition, not least of which was further harmonisation with European standards. Peter Handforth was involved in writing guidance and supporting training material on the 17th edition Wiring Regulations, a publication produced by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). All design, installation, verification, and maintenance, of electrical installations will be affected by the latest amendments to the 17th edition. Professional engineers and students working towards recognised electrical qualifications need to ensure that they receive training on the amended standard. It is equally important for estates managers, officers, electrical supervisors, surveyors, local authorities, electricians, electrical contractors, consultants, and architects, as well as the many other allied trades involved in electrical work.

Significant healthcare relevance