The Truth About the 19th Edition Wiring Regulations—and What It Means for Electricians in Lichfield

Confusion has been growing among electricians and trainees about the upcoming wiring regulations—specifically whether the 19th Edition is around the corner, and how that relates to the current 18th Edition. If you’re trying to untangle what you really need to know, this electrical regulations 19th edition article lays it out clearly. And if you’re in the Lichfield area, the Electrician Courses Lichfield make it easy to stay up to date without heading into Birmingham.
Elec Training always aims to give accurate, timely insights—so check their main site at www.elec.training for details, but here’s the simplified truth:
No 19th Edition Yet (And Probably Not Soon)
Despite rumours online that the 19th Edition of BS 7671 will drop soon—some even claiming 2025—there is no official announcement from either the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) or the British Standards Institution (BSI) regarding a new edition’s release Elec Training.
Historically, new full editions appear roughly every 10 years (for instance, the 17th Edition was in 2008, and the 18th in 2018). Based on that pattern, a 2025 arrival is highly unlikely Elec Training.
What’s Actually Next: 18th Edition Amendment 4 (Due 2026)
What is in motion is Amendment 4 to the 18th Edition, and that is currently in draft form, with publication scheduled for 2026 Elec Training
This isn’t a full rewrite—it’s an update that will add sections covering critical emerging technologies and practices, including:
- Stationary secondary batteries (like Li-ion storage systems)
- Low-voltage generating sets
- Power over Ethernet (PoE)
- Energy-efficiency guidelines
- Functional earthing and equipotential bonding for ICT equipment and systems Elec Training
These additions reflect the direction of modern electrical work—think solar storage, smart tech, and data-centre environments.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Your 18th Edition Qualification
If you’re thinking of waiting to sit your 18th Edition exam because of the misinformation about a 19th Edition, here’s why that’s a mistake:
- No need to wait. The 18th Edition (with Amendments 2 & 3) remains valid and widely accepted today.
- Delay means lost opportunities. Most job specifications require current 18th Edition knowledge; not having it could cost you jobs or rates you’ve earned.
- Minimal retake effort later. When Amendment 4 arrives, a short update session or webinar will suffice—no full exam required Elec Training.
- Waiting looks unprofessional. Staying current says you’re engaged; delaying can signal hesitancy rather than strategy.
How Local Training in Lichfield Keeps You on Track
If you’re based in Lichfield or nearby, the Electrician Courses Lichfield give you direct access to fully up-to-date 18th Edition training via Elec Training. Local learning means easier travel, better continuity, and access to city-region industry expectations—without unnecessary delays.
Quick Reference: Staying Regulation-Ready
Step | What to Do |
1 | Complete the 18th Edition Wiring Regs (C&G 2382-22), including Amendment 2 (2022) and Amendment 3 (2024). |
2 | Download and review the free Amendment 3 PDF bolt-on for accurate clause references. |
3 | Mark 2026 in your diary—Amendment 4 is on the way. |
4 | Stay informed via IET (theiet.org) and BSI (bsigroup.com) for definitive updates. |
This way, you work to current standards now, and simply update your knowledge when the amendment lands—no exam retake.
Staying current with wiring regulations isn’t a hassle—it’s a steady commitment to competence and safety. With accurate, local training through Elec Training at Electrician Courses Lichfield, you’ll meet today’s standards and be ready for tomorrow’s updates—smart, safe, and practical.
If you’re ready to stay fully q ualified and stay ahead, check out your local training options and get confidently up to date today.