Does the 18th Edition Online Course Make You Compliant?
In the electrical industry, staying compliant with the latest regulations is crucial, not only for safety but also for legal and professional standards. One of the most frequently asked questions by electricians, contractors, and industry newcomers is whether completing the 18th Edition online course is enough to ensure full compliance. In today’s blog, we’ll look at what compliance actually means, and what you need to consider to remain up to standard in the electrical industry.
What is the 18th Edition and Why is it Important?
The “18th Edition” refers to the latest version of the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671), which set the standard for electrical installations in the UK. These regulations are widely accepted as the benchmark for safe electrical practice. The 18th Edition ensures that installations meet current safety requirements and follow up-to-date best practices, including new additions like surge protection and energy efficiency considerations.
If you’re working in the electrical industry, whether as an installer, inspector, or designer, it’s essential to understand and apply these regulations.
Does Taking the 18th Edition Online Course Ensure Compliance?
Completing the 18th Edition is a major step toward compliance, but it’s important to understand that the course itself doesn’t make you automatically compliant in a legal or practical sense. Instead, the course:
- Educates you on the latest regulations and changes.
- Prepares you for the City & Guilds 2382-22 exam.
- Demonstrates that you’ve made a proactive effort to stay current with industry standards.
However, compliance in the field depends on your ability to correctly implement what you’ve learned, use the right materials, and apply sound judgment in real-world situations.
Understanding What Compliance Really Means
Being compliant means more than holding a certificate. It means applying the regulations on-site, maintaining accurate records, conducting work that meets inspection standards, and staying up to date with any further amendments.
For example, if an electrician holds a certificate but continues to install systems based on outdated practices, they could still be found non-compliant during inspections or audits.
Why the Online Format Still Counts
Some professionals wonder whether doing the course online carries the same weight as in-person training. The answer is yes- if it’s from a reputable provider like CST Training. Online courses are often more flexible and accessible, especially for working professionals. As long as the course is accredited and leads to the official City & Guilds exam, the format won’t affect its validity.
Conclusion: Does the 18th Edition Online Course Make You Compliant?
Completing the 18th Edition is a crucial part of achieving compliance, but it’s not the only factor. The course arms you with the knowledge, but it’s how you apply that knowledge in your day-to-day work that truly determines compliance. Make sure to combine your training with ongoing professional diligence to stay safely and legally within the regulations. Continued awareness of future updates, active engagement with best practices, and consistent application of the standards are all essential for true compliance in the electrical industry.
If you still have any questions regarding the course, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
Phone – 020 3488 4472
