BS 7671: 2008 Amendment 3 – New regulations now in force.

The publication of Amendment 3 of the 17^th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulation in January 2015 sees the implementation of new regulations for wiring systems above escape routes.

The potentially life-saving changes included in Amendment 3 make this a vital update and includes some major changes which electrical installers and contractors will need to follow in their working practices from the 1^st July 2015.

With the changes now in force, it is recommended that any wiring systems above escape routes with existing plastic/non fire related fastenings, fixings and trunking should be replaced in accordance with the new guidance. Whilst this is not retrospective, all new installations will need to adhere to the changes and incorporate the new measures (or if highlighted in any fire risk assessment).

Chapter 52 of the guidance relating to the selection and erection of wiring systems states that all cabling must now be heat resistant and supported so that in the event of a fire it doesn’t prematurely collapse when exposed to extreme heat.

As a result, all plastic cable clips, non-metallic cable ties and plastic trunking to support wiring systems would likely not comply with the new requirements, which apply to all wiring systems in a building, including those of distribution circuits and final circuits, safety services, and data and communications services.

Additionally, it states that cables concealed in a wall or partition (at a depth of less than 50mm) must be protected by a 30mA RCD for all installations – if other methods of protection, including the use of cables with an earthed metallic covering or mechanical protection, are not used. This applies to a cable in a partition where the construction includes metallic parts other than fixings irrespective of the depth of the cable. However, there is still an exception for cables forming part of SELV (safety extra-low voltage) or PELV (protective extra-low voltage) circuit.

If you require further information or would like to obtain a copy of the updated guidance please click here.

For assistance or guidance from the S₂ Partnership on fire safety and effective management systems or if you require a fire risk assessment, please contact us – we’re happy to help!