The countdown is on to the introduction of the 17th Edition of the IEE Wiring Regulations (BS7671). Although all new installations won’t have to comply with the revised standards until 1st July 2008, the scheduled ‘official’ launch date is less than six months away.
With the pending launch of the 17th Edition IEE Wiring Regulations (BS7671), EAL is applying the finishing touches to a brand new suite of Vocationally Related Qualifications (VRQs). Catering both for new entrants and existing electricians, the qualifications will help to ensure the industry is ready when the new standards come into play on 1st July 2008. From then on all commercial, domestic and industrial wiring installations must be designed to the specification laid out in BS7671:2008.
The finished package will add four new qualifications to the range of products developed by EAL for the building services sector. The 17th Edition Update VRQ will deal with changes to the existing set of standards while the 17th Edition Full VRQ provides the necessary training for those returning to the trade and covers every aspect of the new regulations in full.
For new entrants and those undertaking an apprenticeship, the Electrotechnical Services Level 3 VRQ is a complete VRQ that also takes the 17th Edition into account and meets the Joint Industry Board’s requirements for Electrician Grading. Finally, the Testing & Inspection VRQ provides qualified electricians with a route to achieving the extra requirements of the Advanced Electrician Grading.
The content has been developed through close consultation with SummitSkills, the Sector Skills Council, along with key organisations such as the ECA and NICEIC. The Joint Industry Board has been kept fully informed throughout the development process and is expected to recognise the new qualifications as soon as they are officially accredited by QCA. Sample materials will be available from September/October and EAL will be welcoming new centre approvals as early as October 2007.
And according to NG Bailey, one of the UK’s leading providers of building services, mechanical, electrical and engineering solutions, planning ahead is an important part of the new process. Mark Jones, craft apprenticeship training manager, said:
“The changes in the wiring regulations will mean a big influx of people whose skills need updating. So that things run as smoothly as possible it is imperative that training providers, colleges and those working in the industry equip themselves with the right knowledge up front. I know from NG Bailey’s previous work with EAL that their vocational qualifications are of a very high standard, yet the simple documentation means that they are easily understood by the candidates.”
In preparation for the launch, a series of nationwide launch events are taking place in late September and early October. Free to all who attend, they will provide an opportunity to meet EAL representatives and speak directly to those involved in developing the new qualifications. With advice readily available on becoming an EAL-approved centre, presentations will also explain all about the 17th Edition qualifications as well as EAL’s other products and services.
The one-day events will take place on 25th, 26th and 27th September and 2nd and 4th October in York, Liverpool, Birmingham, Kent and Bristol respectively. Any colleges, training providers or organisations interested in attending should refer to EAL’s website, www.eal.org.uk, or contact Andy Lane at alane@eal.org.uk for additional information.
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Related contacts
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EAL Customer Services
14 Upton Road
Watford
Herts
WD18 0JT
Tel: +44 (0) 870 240 6889
Fax: +44 (0) 870 240 6890 |
EAL Customer Care Email
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