The majority of electrotechnical businesses do not support a proposed future update to Wiring Regulations, according to a new survey.

A study of 544 companies by the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA) has revealed just one in 16 (6%) of businesses across the industry 'absolutely support' the planned 18th Edition update to the Wiring Regulations.

In addition, nearly three in 10 respondents (28%) state the changes were 'unfavourable' or were ‘strongly opposed' to them, while six in 10 firms (61%) said they 'somewhat supported' the proposals.


In fact, 46% of firms believe the changes would 'increase business burdens' while 71% said they would 'make the design and install process more complex'.

ECA's Head of Technical, Steve Martin, said the survey findings should "be seen as a wakeup call" to figures determined to press ahead with the changes.

"It's vital that the voices of electrotechnical businesses and electricians are heard during this process," he said.

"The ECA has a place on the Wiring Regulations committee and we will use this opportunity to ensure any design solutions are practical for installers and contractors. In the meantime, we urge businesses to offer feedback directly to BSI about the proposed changes."

(LM/MH)