“All electrical contractors, electricians, electrical engineers and installation designers have a duty of care to abide by the new Wiring Rules,”says chairman of the EL001 Wiring Rules standards committee, Gary Busbridge.

“It’s not just any set of standards, the Wiring Rules go hand in hand with a responsibility to workplace, health and safety requirements. Even if you’re a sparky or a subby working on a residential site, or someone that’s responsible for large-scale electrical installations, you’ve got to know it! Get yourself and your employees compliant.”

There have been over 200 changes to AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules revision since the last update in 2007. Industry feedback and experience gained from the previous edition of the Wiring Rules have led to several enhancements to the AS/NZS 3000 2018 Wiring Rules. Areas covered by the new 2018 Wiring Rules include main switches, recessed lighting and kitchens. Additionally, the growth of new technologies such as electric vehicle charging systems has led to improved installation techniques. With AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules being mandated by State regulators from 1 January 2019, it’s important electricians and electrical contractors are across the changes.

SAI Global offers this handy guide to the five most important changes you need to be across.

1. Emphasis on Safety

   Working with wires, particularly live wires can have a range of safety risks. Complying with AS/NZS 3000 – Wiring Rules ensures hazards and possible dangers are significantly reduced. For example, the new AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules have improved safety requirements for cooking appliance switching devices.

2. Changes to Technology

   Since the previous edition of the Wiring Rules there has been an array of enhancements in technology. Developments in electric car technology has led to additions in the Standard. For instance in the 2018 edition of the Wiring Rules, there is information on electric vehicle socket outlets and installation.

3. Improved Installation

   The new Wiring Rules includes improved installation safety requirements for cables that pass through bulk thermal insulation, plus a revamped safety service section that is now topic-related.

4. Mandatory Requirements for Electrical Equipment

   The new Wiring Rules include a number of mandatory changes:

   – Mandatory RCD requirements for protection of all final sub-circuits in residential Alterations and repairs and RCD protection have been clarified.
   – The date of initial energisation is now mandatory at the installation switchboard.

5. Enhanced Requirements to Electrical Repairs

   Electrical installation repairs are the bread and butter for electricians and electrical contractors. It’s no surprise that in the newest edition the requirements for alterations and repairs have been clarified and expanded on. What’s more, there’s also now revised requirements for lighting equipment and accessories.

To order your copy of the 2018 Wiring Rules, visit https://infostore.saiglobal.com/en-au/Standards/AS-NZS-3000-2018-98926_SAIG_AS_AS_208028/.