Training / Qualifications

[imroberts]

I'm already fairly knowledgable and competent at electrical work, regulations, guidelines, diversity etc. though have no official qualifications therefore no longer help others out with jobs since the introduction of Part P.

I was looking at reading up properly on the regulations and industry practices, or potentially obtaining some proper training / qualifications with a view to a possible change of career path.

Looking for advice in two areas:

1) Which books are worthwhile reading from a personal perspective to help further my knowledge

2) What qualifications are required in order to perform domestic electrical work, i.e. installations, repairs, the ability to self-certificate etc? Are these available only as official courses or also as self-study? What books would I need as a minimum to start studying?

Sorry if these questions have been asked before, I had a quick look around and couldn't find anything.

 

[Spark123]

Without knowing what sort of level you are already at it is difficult to suggest any books. You might be better having a word with your local college to see what courses they have on offer.
The qualifications you require to join a scheme differ between the schemes. For example have a look at the NICEIC Domestic Installer website - it should tell you what you need to join.

 

[flameport]

Books here: //www.diynot.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=75416#75416

Minimum qualification is the 2382, (was 2381), which is a multiple choice open book exam.

Requirements and costs for self certification schemes: http://www.elecsa.co.uk/reqs_costs.aspx
NICEIC are very similar, NAPIT have imposed additional requirements for some reason, and as for BSI - no one knows or cares.

 

[JohnnyG]

The absolute minimum qualifications you should get are:

EAL VRQ - Part P
C&G 2382 - 17th edition wiring regulations
C&G 2392 - Inspection and testing

A C&G 2391 & C&G 2330 would be better but they cover a lot of areas domestic electricians don't necessarily need, although that's not a bad thing.

They are obtainable as distant learning/self study but I can't help but think that's not the best way to learn what is largely a practical skill, you may have different views.
You would still have to attend a training centre for assessments of course.

Some books:

Practical guide to inspection, testing and certification - Christopher Kitcher
Electric Wiring: Domestic - Brian Scaddan
On Site Guide BS7671:2008
Electricians guide to the building regulations
IEE Wiring Regulations 17th Edition

You will have to get the last 3 if you want to be anywhere near competent and they are necessities on a lot of courses.

 

[martinxxxxxx]

You could do a home study coarse http://www.electacourse.com/2382.html

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

The 2330 city & guilds course are run in conjunction with the Trevor Linsley books Basic Electrical Installation Work: Level 2 City & Guilds 2330 Technical Certificate (Paperback) Level 2 to start with then 3 will be required
So that is a must have if you intend to take this route.
Plus On Site Guide, BS7671:2008 and GN3 also for help in the understanding of calculations this series of books are great
Electrical Installation Calculations Volume 1: v. 1 (Paperback)
by A.J. Watkins (Author), Christopher James Kitcher (Author)