Amendment 2 to BS 7671:2018 (IET Wiring Regulations) was published in 2022. The new amendment includes several important changes related to RCD risk assessments, additional earth electrodes, arc fault detection devices (AFDDs), protected escape routes, and surge protection.
RCD Risk Assessments
One of the significant changes is related to RCDs, which are now required for all socket-outlets up to 32 A that are for use by ordinary persons, children, or disabled persons (BA1, BA2, BA3), use in other locations, and use outdoors. The option to omit RCDs remains for use in other locations provided a documented risk assessment is completed and attached to the relevant electrical certificate. The building duty holder is responsible for completing this form, but they may be assisted by someone skilled in completing this form.
Additional Earth Electrodes
Another change is related to additional earth electrodes. Although not a major change, the regulation now recommends an additional connection to Earth by means of an earth electrode in accordance with Chapter 54. However, this is only a recommendation, and not a requirement. It would be wrong to mandate additional earth electrodes in all cases, although some installations may benefit from this.
Arc Fault Detection Devices
AFDDs are now mandated on single-phase AC circuits supplying socket-outlets up to 32 A in higher risk residential buildings (HRRB), houses in multiple occupation (HMO), purpose-built student accommodation, and care homes. However, AFDDs are recommended in other circuits, but as seen earlier, a recommendation is not a requirement.
Protected Escape Routes
The new amendment introduces the concept of a protected escape route. This is a specific part of a building that has an escape route that is designed to be protected against fire for a specified period of time. Members working within installations that have protected escape routes are advised to ensure that they meet the requirements of this chapter and understand any limitations that Amendment 2 places on the electrical designer.
Surge Protection
Amendment 2 clarifies the use of surge protection devices (SPDs). Protection against transient overvoltages shall be provided where the consequence caused by the overvoltage could result in serious injury to or loss of human life, failure of a safety service, or significant financial or data loss. For all other cases, protection against transient overvoltages shall be provided unless the owner of the installation declares it is not required due to any loss or damage being tolerable and they accept the risk of damage to equipment and any consequential loss.
In conclusion, the changes brought by Amendment 2 to BS 7671:2018 are significant and will have an impact on electrical installations. It is important for electrical professionals to be aware of these changes and to ensure they comply with the new regulations. Members of the electrical industry are also advised to consult with clients and building duty holders to ensure that the installations meet the requirements of Amendment 2, while taking into account any limitations that may be imposed by the amendment.
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