BS 7671 Part by Part Revision Guide

Feb 3
Introduction
BS 7671 — the IET Wiring Regulations — is the foundation of electrical installation work in the UK. For learners preparing for exams, understanding the structure of the book is more important than memorising every regulation.
This guide breaks down each part in simple, exam friendly language, making it more familiar and therefore easier to navigate whilst under exam pressure.

BS7671 Parts Breakdown?

  • Part 1 — Scope, Object and Fundamental Principles
     Covers:
    • What BS 7671 applies to
    • Safety principles
    • Basic protection
    • Fault protection
    Simplified: Each Circuit has to be designed correctly, installed correctly, be safe for use and tested and reported correctly throughout its life.
  • Part 2 --- Definitions
    For the purposes of BS7671, the following definitions shall apply. As far as practicable the definitions align with the IEC 60050 - International Electrotechnical Vocabulary. Important for exams
    Simplified: What certain words or names mean across the globe, get to know terms like: SELV, PELV, ADS, Zs, Ze, R1+R2 and more..
  • Part 3 — Assessment of General Characteristics
    Covers:
    • Supply characteristics
    • External influences
    • Compatibility
    • Maintainability
    Simplified: You must assess the key characteristics of the installation, including: Its purpose and how it will be used, Its structure and method of supply, Any external influences, The compatibility of the equipment for its continued safe use.
  • Part 4 — Protection for Safety
     A major exam topic.
    Includes:
    • Protection against electric shock
    • Overcurrent protection
    • Fault protection
    • RCDs
    • Disconnection times
    Simplified: Each Circuit has to be protected, and be safe for use throughout its life.
  • Part 5 — Selection and Erection of Equipment
     Covers:
    • Cable selection
    • Installation methods
    • Isolation and switching
    • Earthing and bonding
    • Special equipment
    Simplified: Each Circuit and the equipment has to be installed correctly, be safe for use and fit for purpose throughout its life.
  • Part 6 — Inspection and Testing
    Includes:
    • Dead tests
    • Live tests
    • Certification
    • Test sequences
    Simplified: Each Circuit has to be tested and reported correctly throughout its life.
  • Part 7 — Special Locations
     Covers:
    • Bathrooms
    • Swimming pools
    • Agricultural locations
    • Car charging
    • Temporary installations
    Simplified: Each Circuit has to be designed correctly, installed correctly, be safe for use and tested and reported correctly throughout its life even when it is not in a domestic house or commercial premises.

The BS7671 Exam

2382-22 BS7671-Requirements for Electrical Installations.
The exam has the following:
60 questions.
120 minutes
Open book: latest version of IET Wiring Regulations 18th Edition

Conclusion

Understanding the structure of BS 7671 makes exams far easier. You don’t need to memorise everything — you just need to know where to look.
We set you on a mission: To find the answer in 2 minutes by using No timer simulated exams, timed (2hr) simulated exams, and timed (2 minute a question) simulated exam, along with quick fire questions designed to check your progress and ability. Examtrain's advice is start as a beginner and jump to expert if you have never taken the exam.
If you have taken it unsuccessfully or need to update from a previous version then Intermediate is for you.
Examtrain has introduced an intensive learning program which includes all three sections making you a Master. check it out here.

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