The 18th Edition (BS 7671:2018) Amendment 1, which concerns electric vehicle charge points, came into effect on 1 February 2020.
The ongoing amendments to BS7671 are required for the standards to remain current and aligned with changes in technology, installation techniques, and changes to other standards.
Amendment 2 is now in progress. The proposed changes were in Draft for Public Comment (DPC) between 21 September to 11 December 2020.
Potential changes include:
– Arc fault detection devices (AFDDs) to be required on all single-phase final circuits (not exceeding 32A) supplying socket-outlets and fixed current-using equipment
– Remove the option for omitting RCDs on socket outlets not exceeding 32A in installations other than dwellings.
– Reduce the number of items on the schedule of inspections for an electrical installation certificate to make it more user-friendly.
– Require for a new premise to have additional earthing provision, such as foundation earthing
After in Draft for Public Comment (DPC) a final version will be agreed in 2021, Amendment 2 is likely to come into effect in early 2022.