HC Deb 07 February 1994 vol 237 cc4-5W
Mr. Hunter

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what plans he has to ensure that only suitably qualified people advise customers of electricity companies on wiring and safety.

Mr. Eggar

[holding answer 3 February 1994]: I have no plans for this purpose. The guidelines provided by BS7671—the IEE wiring regulations—are well established and well known in the electrical contracting and associated industries.

BS7671 applies to the design, selection, erection, inspection and testing of electrical installations. It also makes requirements for safety with the objective of protecting persons, property and livestock against electrical shock, fires, burns and various mechanical hazards. Persons who wish to certify that an installation satisfies the requirements of this standard must be competent for the work. The standard sets out the requirements for competence.

The safety aspects of this standard are supported by legislation, for example the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974.

Mr. Hunter

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what guidelines he has issued to companies regarding the qualifications of employees advising customers on rewiring and safety.

Mr. Eggar

[holding answer 3 February 1994]: I have not issued any guidelines for this purpose. The guidelines provided by BS7671—the IEE wiring regulations—are well established and well known in the electrical contracting and associated industries.

BS7671 applies to the design, selection, erection, inspection and testing of electrical installations. It also makes requirements for safety with the objective of protecting persons, property and livestock against electrical shock, fires burns and various mechanical hazards. Persons who wish to certify that an installation satisfies the requirements of this standard must be competent for the work. The standard sets out the requirements for competence.

The safety aspects of this standard are supported by legislation, for example the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974.

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