The National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) is urging the more than 4,000 registered electrical contractors in Ireland, and all those working in the electrotechnical sector, to have their say on the proposed National Wiring Rules.
The new rules have been developed through the National Standards Authority of Ireland by industry experts who sit on the NSAI’s Electro Technical Committee (ETC TC2) ‘Electrical Installations’. The National Wiring Rules are essential for electricians, inspectors and regulators as they specify the electrical installation safety requirements for all premises in Ireland.
Yvonne Wylde, Technical Manager at the NSAI, said the rules have been updated to reflect best practice and changes to international standards. “It’s been over 10 years since the last set of rules was published in Ireland, and there have been significant developments since then. The regulations rely on the Wiring Rules for implementation and so it is critical that they are kept up to date.”
The draft revisions improve safeguards and bring industry requirements in line with technical developments and best practice in Europe.
The NSAI’s Standards Officer, Stewart Hickey said the revisions, if adopted, will significantly improve safety for both electrical installers and home- owners.
“Some of the key changes proposed in the new rules are that Residual Current Devices (RCDs) will now be required to be installed on lighting circuits in domestic premises and Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) will now be recommended for circuits installed in locations with particular risk, such as in premises with sleeping accommodation or buildings made of combustible construction materials such as wooden buildings. “There will be a series of technical seminars held across the country later in 2019 to outline the key changes and what they mean for electricians. The dates and locations of these seminars will be available on our website when the consultation period comes to an end.”
Electricians, home-owners and all interested parties have until February 28, 2019 to have their say on the New National Wiring Rules. It is expected the standard will be published by mid 2019.
To read the draft I.S.10101:20xx Standard and submit your comments, log onto “your Standards, your Say” web portal through the NSAI website at www. NSAInep.ie
