Key electrical regulations and legislation

Regulation 14 allows live work only when it is unreasonable for the conductor to be dead, reasonable to work live, and suitable precautions are taken. Regulation 12 covers means of cutting off supply and isolation; 16 covers competence; 4 covers systems, work activities and protective equipment.

Source: Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (Regulations 4, 12, 14, 16)

BS 7671 is a British Standard, not law in itself, but HSE guidance says installations that follow it are likely to meet the relevant parts of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. The EAWR is the statutory instrument and was not replaced. BS 7671 applies to all kinds of premises. HSE HSR25, guidance on the EAWR.

Source: HSE HSR25 The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989: guidance on regulations (Status of BS 7671 in relation to the EAWR); BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 (Part 1, scope and status (paraphrased))

Regulation 16 requires the person to have the technical knowledge or experience needed to prevent danger or injury, or to be under supervision appropriate to the work. It does not set a qualification or a number of years. A permit controls a job but does not make someone competent. EAWR 1989, regulation 16.

Source: Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (Regulation 16)

Regulation 3 places duties on employers and self-employed people, and on employees, who must co-operate with their employer and comply with the regulations on matters within their control. So an AV, data or fire engineer has duties too, not just electricians or the employer. EAWR 1989, regulation 3.

Source: Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (Regulation 3)

Regulation 15 requires adequate working space, adequate means of access and adequate lighting at equipment being worked on or near where danger may arise. Cramped, dark or hard-to-reach panels make mistakes and accidental contact more likely. EAWR 1989, regulation 15.

Source: Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (Regulation 15)