NVQ 2356

Electrical Installation

PLEASE NOTE: New registrations for the NVQ 2356-99 Level 3 electrical qualification ended on 30th November 2020. This information is purely for existing candidates who have up to 3 years from their date of commencement to complete their NVQ.

This qualification has been replaced by the City & Guilds NVQ 2346-03 Level 3 Electrotechnical Experienced Worker Qualification (Installation) as the Experienced Worker Qualification.

NVQ 2356-99 Level 3 in Electrotechnical Services Experienced Worker – Electrical Installation (Building and Structures)

The Electrical Installation NVQ 2356 Level 3 consists of eight units, 301 to 308, and each unit needs to be completed over three separate occasions.

This can be any number of jobs / tasks and does not necessarily mean three separate jobs or three separate locations.

These three occasions can be done by observations / professional discussions by your assessor or witness statements / site diary created by yourself using evidence collected from jobs / tasks.

The additional Unit 399 (AM2) needs to be covered only on one occasion and this is a three day practical assessment taken at an AM2 Centre anywhere in the UK.

Unit 301 – Ensure Safe Site Working

This unit is for you if you work on electrotechnical systems and equipment as you will need to ensure that where you work on site is continually safe for electrotechnical working.

This unit is about assessing the site for hazards prior to, during, and on completion of work on electrotechnical systems and equipment.

You need to show that you possess the skills and knowledge to:

  • Assess the working environment at the site for health and safety purposes
  • Plan and agree a safe system of work
  • Carry out safe working practices including the correct use of access equipment
  • Monitor that the site remains continually safe during working and is left in a safe and secure condition on completion.

To help with your understanding, the ‘Key Words and Phrases‘ section below gives more details about some of the words and phrases which have been used in this unit.

Unit 301 Key Words & Phrases

Access equipment: In this unit these include: stepladders, trestles, mobile scaffolding, and powered platform systems.
Electrotechnical systems and equipment: In this unit, this includes: ELV and LV single and multiphase, power, lighting, switchgear and controls.
Relevant person(s): In this unit these include: customers, clients, client representatives, team-leaders, charge-hands, supervisors, other contractors, non-electrotechnical operatives, colleagues or those working on machine which will be affected by our work.
Safe system of work: In this unit, this refers to a system of work which will include procedures such as safe isolation, permits to work, wearing personal protective equipment and other procedures, as appropriate, identified during an assessment of risks. The system of work may take the form of a method statement.
Site: In this unit, this refers to the immediate work area or work place.
Working conditions: In this unit, this refers to the working conditions which exist at that point in time when the electrotechnical work activities are due to take place. The working conditions could vary. It could be, for example, that the work takes place outside, in which case you may need to take account of the weather conditions. Or, they could include other (non-electrical) operatives who come onto the site to start their work – their subsequent activities may cause the site to become hazardous.

Unit 301 Performance Objectives

You must ensure that: 

  1. You carry out an assessment of risks on the site to comply with health and safety regulations and other relevant legislation
  2. You plan a safe system of work and agree it with the relevant person(s)
  3. You use suitable warning notices and barriers to prevent unauthorised entry to the work site as identified by your assessment of risks
  4. You monitor regularly that the working conditions remain safe for work to continue
  5. You minimise the risks associated with using tools, plant and access equipment by following health and safety requirements and suppliers’ instructions
  6. You check that all tools, plant and access equipment available on site are stored safely and securely during work activities and are moved on completion
  7. You check that the work site is cleared after the work ends and left in a safe and satisfactory condition in accordance with health and safety regulations and good housekeeping practice.
Unit 301 Knowledge Requirements

* Related Performance Objective Number in Red

In order to be able to ensure safe site practices when working on electrotechnical systems and equipment, you should know and understand the following aspects relating to:

Health and Safety:
1. How to carry out an assessment of risks and plan a safe system of work with regard to:
a) The site and the hazards it presents
b) Access to the immediate work site
c) Others working at the site
d) Systems and equipment integrity
e The working conditions – 1,2,3,4
2. The regulatory and your organisation’s requirements for correctly handling, using and storing tools, equipment, materials and access equipment – 5,6
3. When a site is safe
a) For work to proceed
b) For work to continue
c) To leave when work finishes – 7
4. The legal responsibilities for health and safety in accordance with current Health and Safety legislation, regulations and codes of practice – All POs
5. The need for safety, welfare and access arrangements to be in force at the site – 3

Safe Working On Site:
6. Assessing the suitability of the electrotechnical systems and equipment for the working environment – 1
7. The importance of ‘good housekeeping’ procedures in relation to site working – 7

Unit 302 – Diagnose and Correct Faults in Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment

This unit is for you if you diagnose and correct faults in electrotechnical systems and equipment, and need to take appropriate action.

This unit is about ensuring the safe identification of faults, and correcting the faults by using safe and approved methods.

You need to show that you possess the skills and knowledge to:

  • Follow correct procedures in identifying the location of the fault
  • Carry out safe and secure isolation procedures
  • Diagnose the faults in the electrotechnical systems and equipment
  • Correct faults using safe and approved methods
  • Use test equipment and tools correctly.

To help with your understanding, the ‘Key Words and Phrases‘ section below gives more details about some of the words and phrases which have been used in this unit.

Unit 302 Key Words & Phrases

Safe system of work: In this unit, this refers to a system of work which will include procedures such as safe isolation, permits to work, wearing personal protective equipment and other procedures, as appropriate, identified during an assessment of risks. The system of work may take the form of a method statement.
Faults: In this unit, faults on electrotechnical systems and equipment may include: overload, earth leakage faults, open circuits, short circuits, high resistance joints, incomplete circuits and oversensitive/ nonperforming protective devices.
Connections: In this unit, this includes: the termination and connection of wiring systems to electrotechnical systems and equipment, ensuring that every joint and connection is mechanically and electrically sound and suitable for use.
Electrotechnical systems and equipment: In this unit this includes: ELV and LV single and multiphase power, lighting, switchgear and controls.
Electrotechnical equipment: In this unit this includes electrical plant, components, and accessories, motors and starters, switchgear and distribution panels, control systems and components, luminaries.
Industry Standards: These standards can include relevant British, European and International Standards.

Unit 302 Performance Objectives

You must ensure that: 

  1. You obtain clear and detailed information about the faults including the system specification relating to the electrotechnical systems and equipment
  2. You advise the relevant people clearly and accurately about the potential disruption and consequences of carrying out a diagnosis and correction of faults
  3. You agree the appropriate repairs and their implications with the relevant people in accordance with organisational procedures
  4. You conduct an assessment of safe working practices and perform suitable tests on the installed electrotechnical systems and equipment, safely, to identify the fault
  5. You follow the correct procedures for carrying out a safe and secure isolation, where required, before diagnosing and correcting the fault
  6. You follow the correct procedures when rectifying the fault, including using the appropriate tools, equipment and materials
  7. Where the fault can not be corrected immediately, you leave the electrotechnical systems and equipment safe in accordance with industry regulations
  8. You inspect and test that the repaired electrotechnical systems and equipment are functioning in accordance with the relevant Industry Standards and specifications
  9. You inform the relevant people about the test results and complete the documentation clearly and accurately.
Unit 302 Knowledge Requirements

* Related Performance Objective Number in Red

In order to diagnose and correct faults in electrotechnical systems and equipment you should know and understand the following aspects relating to:

Diagnosing and Correcting Faults:
1. The necessary information for carrying out a successful fault diagnosis – 1
2. The implications for relevant parties of carrying out diagnosis and rectification faults – 2,3
3. How to carry out an assessment of risks and plan a safe system of work with regard to:
a) Access to the workplace
b) Preventing unauthorised access
c) Others working at the workplace
d) Systems and equipment integrity
e) The working conditions and the working environment – 4
4. The correct sequence of tests for locating faults – 4
5.
The advantages and limitations of fault diagnosis techniques – 4
6. The main types, advantages and limitations of test instruments – 4
7. The correct procedures for a safe and secure isolation with regard to:
a) An assessment of safe working practice
b) Correct identification of circuits to be isolated
c) Correct test and proving instruments selected
d) Use of correct testing methods, and
e) Correct selection of devices for securing isolation – 5,7
8.
The correct methods for checking that test instruments are functional and in calibration – 6
9. The methods and the correct procedures to follow for correcting faults – 6
10. The main requirements and procedures for inspecting and testing rectified electrotechnical systems and equipment installed equipment – 8
11.
Organisational requirements with regard to informing relevant people about the test results and completing all relevant documentation – 9

Health and Safety:
12. Importance of using personal safety equipment and appropriate tools for specific jobs – All POs
13. The legal responsibilities for health and safety in accordance with current health and safety legislation, regulations and codes of practice – All POs

Principles and Theory:
14. The latest, relevant Industry Standards applicable to diagnosing and correcting faults in electrical systems and equipment – All POs
15. Where to find out about principles of electrical theory and installation techniques for diagnosing and correcting faults in electrical systems and equipment – All POs

Unit 303 – Provide Technical and Functional Information to People about Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment

This unit is for you if you pass on technical or functional information relating to electrotechnical systems and equipment on which you have been working.

This unit is about supplying technical and functional information accurately on appropriate occasions or at handover with the right amount of detail bearing in mind the level of awareness of the recipient of the information.

You need to show that you possess the skills and knowledge to:

  • Identify who should receive such information and at what level of detail
  • Supply the information that is within your job capabilities and responsibilities
  • Pass on the necessary safety considerations in the correct manner.

To help with your understanding, the ‘Key Words and Phrases‘ section below gives more details about some of the words and phrases which have been used in this unit.

Unit 303 Key Words & Phrases

Safe system of work: In this unit, this refers to a system of work which will include procedures such as safe isolation, permits to work, wearing personal protective equipment and other procedures, as appropriate, identified during an assessment of risks. The system of work may take the form of a method statement.
Technical information: In this unit, this will include information covering installation and equipment specifications, manufacturers’ data and instructions.
Functional information: In this unit, this will include information covering user instructions, including the circumstances when professional expertise should be called upon.
Relevant people: In this unit these will include: customers, clients, client representatives, charge-hands, supervisors, other contractors, colleagues, and those working on machinery affected by our work.
Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment: In this unit this includes: ELV and LV single and multiphase power, lighting, switchgear and controls.
Electrotechnical Equipment: In this unit this includes electrical plant, components, and accessories, motors and starters, switchgear and distribution panels, control systems and components, luminaries.

Unit 303 Performance Objectives

You must ensure that: 

  1. You identify the relevant people that need to be supplied with technical and functional information
  2. You discuss, with the relevant people, their technical and functional information requirements
  3. You obtain current and relevant information from appropriate sources
  4. You assess the nature and extent of information required by the relevant people in order for the installation, or equipment, to be operated safely and effectively
  5. You pass on the information in a timely, courteous and professional manner and in accordance with organisational procedures
  6. You provide written technical and functional information to the relevant people in accordance with organisational procedures
  7. You confirm that the relevant people receive the necessary health and safety information and advice in the approved manner.
Unit 303 Knowledge Requirements

* Related Performance Objective Number in Red

In order to provide technical and functional information to relevant people you should know and understand the following aspects relating to:

Providing technical and functional information:

1. Which situations warrant written technical and functional information – 4,6
2. Methods of checking the relevant person’s understanding of the technical and non-technical information provided – 1,2
3. Sources of technical and functional information including the manufacturer, supplier or own organization – 3
4. Ways of checking the relevant people understand those aspects of the information which have a bearing on health and safety – 7
5. Responsibilities and limitations in your job role with respect to supplying technical and functional information – All POs
6. Organisational practice on the amount of information and detail that individual members of the relevant person’s organisation are entitled to receive – 5
7. The importance of providing information clearly, courteously and professionally – 7
8. The safety implications and functional consequences of supplying inaccurate or incomplete information to the relevant person – All POs

Health and Safety:
9. The need for up-to-date, reliable technical and functional information – All POs
10. The legal responsibilities for health and safety according to current health and safety legislation, regulations and codes of practice – All POs

Unit 304 – Maintain a Safe and Healthy Working Environment

This unit is for you whilst at work. The Health and Safety at Work Act, 1974, seeks to secure the health, safety and welfare of people whilst they work and protect other people against risks to health or safety arising from the activity of people at work. Read ‘important note’ under key words and phrases. 

This unit is about maintaining a healthy and safe working environment.

You need to show that you possess the skills and knowledge to:

  • Ensure that your own actions do not create any health and safety risks
  • Not ignore hazards with significant risk in your workplace
  • Take sensible action to put things right.

To help with your understanding, the ‘Key Words and Phrases‘ section below gives more details about some of the words and phrases which have been used in this unit.

Unit 304 Key Words & Phrases

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the body appointed to support and enforce health and safety law. They have defined two important concepts as follows:

Hazard: ‘A hazard is something with potential to cause harm’.
Risk: ‘A risk is the likelihood of the hazard’s potential being realised’.
Emergencies: This includes: fire, explosions, toxic atmosphere, electrical shocks.
Working conditions: This refers to the working conditions which exist at that point in time when the work is due to take place, but which could vary. It could be, for example, that the work is to take place outside, in which case you may need to take account of the weather conditions. Or, perhaps other (non-electrical) contractors come onto the site to start their work – their subsequent activities may cause the site to become hazardous.
Working environment: This refers to different types of the worksite where the installation is to take place. These include: agricultural, industrial, commercial sites, or confined spaces or working near other machinery. The working environment is something you would not be able to change.
Relevant people: These include: customers, clients, client representatives, chargehands, supervisors, other contractors, colleagues.
Working practices: This includes: activities, procedures, use of materials or equipment and working techniques used in carrying out your job.

IMPORTANT NOTE: According to the Health and Safety at Work Act:

Employers must safeguard so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all the people who work for them and ‘other persons’. This applies in particular to the provision and maintenance of safe plant and systems of work, and covers all machinery, equipment and substances used.

Employees also have a duty under the Act to take reasonable care to avoid harm to themselves or to others by their working practices, and to co-operate with employers and others in meeting statutory requirements. The Act also requires employees not to interfere with or misuse anything provided to protect their health, safety or welfare in compliance with the Act.

There is an array of health and safety regulations and codes of practice which affect people at work.

There are regulations for those who, for example, work with electricity, or work on construction projects, as well as regulations covering noise at work, manual handling, working with VDUs, or dealing with substances hazardous to health, etc. The specific requirements for all or any of these can be obtained from HSE local offices.

The phrase ‘the legal responsibilities for health and safety as defined by any specific legislation covering your job role’ is intended to relate to those specific pieces of legislation important to your workplace and/or activities which you should be able to find out about.

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 is the main piece of legislation under which nearly all the other regulations are made. It is for this reason that only this piece of legislation is specifically referred to in this Unit.

Unit 304 Performance Objectives

You must ensure that: 

  1. You identify which workplace health and safety procedures are relevant to your working environment
  2. You identify evacuation procedures and emergency exits before work commences
  3. You review your working practices and your working environment for hazards which could cause serious harm
  4. You control those health and safety hazards within your capability and job responsibility limits
  5. You report those hazards which may present a high risk to the relevant persons responsible for health and safety in the workplace
  6. Your personal conduct around the workplace does not endanger the health and safety of yourself or other persons
  7. You follow the workplace policies and suppliers’ or manufacturers’ instructions for the safe use of tools, plant and equipment
  8. You follow agreed procedures in the event of an emergency
  9. You follow correct procedures in the event of injuries to self and others.
Unit 304 Knowledge Requirements

* Related Performance Objective Number in Red

In order to provide technical and functional information to relevant people you should know and understand the following aspects relating to:

Providing technical and functional information:

1. Your legal duties for health and safety in the workplace as defined by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – 1
2. Your duties for health and safety as defined by any specific legislation covering your job role – 1,2
3. What hazards may exist in your workplace – 3
4. The particular health and safety risks which may be present in your own job role – 3
5. The importance of remaining alert to the presence of hazards in the whole work place – All POs
6. Agreed workplace health and safety procedures including
a) Site evacuation procedures
b) Procedures for dealing with injured persons
c) Emergency procedures – 6,7,8,9
7. Responsibilities for health and safety in your job description – 4
8. The responsible persons to whom to report health and safety matters – 5

Unit 305 – Prepare to Install Wiring Systems, Wiring Enclosures and Equipment

This unit is for a person required to ensure that the necessary wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment are appropriate for the installation, prior to the electrical installation work taking place.

This unit is about wiring enclosures and equipment are suitable for the installation.

You need to show that you understand the application and the meaning of ‘fitness for purpose’ of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment. You will need to also demonstrate that you understand the importance of making sure that the intended installation matches the expectations of the relevant person. Also, you will need to prove that you have confirmed that the wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment you are going to install are suitable for the working environment where the installation will take place.

To help with your understanding, the ‘Key Words and Phrases‘ section below gives more details about some of the words and phrases which have been used in this unit.

Unit 305 Key Words & Phrases

Wiring Systems: This includes: multi-core and single core cables with PVC, XLPE or LSF insulation and sheathing, M I cables with or without PVC/LSF sheathing and SWA cables with PVC, XLPE or LSF insulation and sheathing.
Wiring Enclosures: This includes: PVC and Steel Conduit, PVC and Steel trunking, Cable tray and ladder systems, ducting systems.
Electrical Equipment: This includes: electrical plant, components and accessories, motors and starters, switch gear and distribution panels, control systems and components, luminaires.
Site Services: This includes: maintenance vehicles, water, gas services, oil and air lines, air conditioning, alarms.
Working conditions: This refers, to the working conditions which exist at that point in time when the installation is due to take place, but they could vary. It could be, for example, that the installation is to take place outside, in which case you may need to take account of the weather conditions. Or, perhaps other (non-electrical) contractors come onto the site to start their work – their subsequent activities may cause the site to become hazardous.
Working environment: This refers to different types of the worksite where the installation is to take place. These include: domestic, agricultural, industrial, commercial, or leisure sites. The working environment is something you would not be able to change. The type of worksite will determine whether the working environment is hazardous which could affect the type of equipment installed.
Relevant people: These include: customers, clients, client representatives, chargehands, supervisors, other contractors, colleagues.

Unit 305 Performance Objectives

You must ensure that: 

  1. You confirm at the outset with the relevant person that your plans for the installation meet their expectations
  2. You review the working environment and working conditions for any changes which might impact on the installation due to take place
  3. You have wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment of the right type, amount and size available to undertake the installation
  4. You confirm that the selected wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment are compatible with all other available site services
  5. You confirm that:
    a) The wiring systems
    b) The wiring enclosures, and
    c) The equipment
    – are fit for purpose and meet the needs of the installation
  6. You seek confirmation that there are no hazards which could harm yourself or other people within the building fabric prior to commencement of the installation
  7. You use fixings which are fit for purpose and appropriate for the site structure and building fabric
  8. You follow all appropriate manufacturers’ instructions for wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment.
Unit 305 Knowledge Requirements

* Related Performance Objective Number in Red

In order to provide technical and functional information to relevant people you should know and understand the following aspects relating to:

Providing technical and functional information:

1. Contract responsibilities with respect to:
a) Agreeing variations to the installation outside the contract
b) Start and finish dates
c) Legal procedures – 1
2. The common types, their advantages and limitations of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment – 3
3. The materials which are recommended for use as electrical conductors and insulators – 2,3,5
4. How to calculate sizes and types of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment and the importance of making calculations for this purpose – 3
5. How to prepare a schedule of quantities of all materials required for an electrical installation from customer information, drawings or site visits – 3
6. How to determine whether a wiring system, wiring enclosure and equipment for installation in a particular environment is – 2,3,5
7. How to interpret diagrams and drawings to find site services and the planned location of the wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment – 4
8. How to determine the suitability of fixing methods to building fabric in the environment of the installation – 6,7

Health and Safety:
9. The effects of installing into unknown building fabric – 6,7
10. Your legal responsibilities for health and safety as required by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Electricity At Work Regulations of 1989 appropriate to site working – All POs but in particular No. 2
11. Handling wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment in the correct manner – 8

Principles and theory:
12. IEE wiring regulations as specified in the latest British Standard for Electrical Installations relevant to types and uses of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment – All POs

Unit 306 – Install Electrical Wiring Systems, Wiring Enclosures and Equipment

This unit is for a person required to carry out the installing of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment.

This unit is about following the correct procedures for the installation of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment as specified.

You need to show an understanding of:

  • Installing of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment
  • The methods for identifying and isolating electrical supply
  • Positioning and fixing components correctly
  • Those areas which have the potential to be hazardous.

To help with your understanding, the ‘Key Words and Phrases‘ section below gives more details about some of the words and phrases which have been used in this unit.

Unit 306 Key Words & Phrases

Wiring Systems:  This includes: multi-core and single core cables with PVC, XLPE or LSF insulation and sheathing, M I cables with or without PVC/LSF sheathing and SWA cables with PVC, XLPE or LSF insulation and sheathing.
Wiring Enclosures: This includes: PVC and Steel Conduit, PVC and Steel trunking, Cable tray, basket and ladder systems, ducting systems.
Electrical Equipment: This includes: electrical plant, components and accessories, motors and starters, switch gear and distribution panels, control systems and components, luminaires.
Site Services: This includes: maintenance vehicles, water, gas services, oil and air lines, air conditioning, alarms.
Relevant people: These include: customers, clients, client representatives, chargehands, supervisors, other contractors, colleagues.
Means of isolation: This involves: ensuring the item or component is located accessibly and is appropriate for the application whilst having regard to the nature of the equipment and the circumstances under which isolation may be required.
Electrical systems: This includes: ELV and LV single and multiphase, power, lighting and controls.

Unit 306 Performance Objectives

You must ensure that: 

  1. You confirm the existing electrical supply is compatible with the planned installation in accordance with laid down procedures
  2. You follow agreed procedures to ensure the co-ordination of site services and the activities of other trades
  3. You identify accurately the means of electrical isolation prior to commencing installation
  4. When required, you carry out isolation procedures to ensure a safe installation in accordance with electrical regulations and approved procedures
  5. You measure and mark out all locations for wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment in accordance with electrical regulations and to meet an agreed specification
  6. You check that the planned locations are sensible, visually acceptable and are in accordance with other site services
  7. You fix the wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment safely and in accordance with relevant regulations and manufacturers’ instructions
  8. You report to relevant people those necessary variations to the planned programme of work that may have:
    a) The potential to be dangerous
    b) Have a cost implication
  9. You seek the appropriate action from the relevant people.
Unit 306 Knowledge Requirements

* Related Performance Objective Number in Red

In order to install electrical wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment you should know and understand the following aspects relating to:

Installing electrical wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment:

1. The most effective methods of measuring, cutting to length and installing wiring systems and wiring enclosures – 5
2. The most effective methods of fabricating wiring enclosures – 7
3. The authority issuing procedures for co-ordinating data on site services – 1,2,6
4. How to interpret diagrams and drawings to find site services and the planned location of the wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment – 2,6
5. Organisational procedures for reporting variations to work schedules – 8,9

Health and Safety:
6. The correct procedures for a safe isolation with regard to:
a) An assessment of safe working practice
b) Correct identification of circuits to be isolated
c) Correct test and proving instruments selected
d) Use of correct testing methods
e) Correct selection of devises for securing isolation – 3,4
7. The implications for relevant parties of carrying out an isolation – 4
8. The importance of using personal protective equipment and safe appropriate tools for specific jobs – 3,4
9. The hazards associated with using electrical equipment and plant including their lifting, handling and fixing – 7

Principles and theory:
10. IEE wiring regulations as specified in the latest British Standard for Electrical Installations relevant to types and uses of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment – All POs
11. Where to find out about the principles of electrical theory which allow for the safe installation of electrical wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment – All POs

Unit 307 – Connect Wiring Systems and Equipment Using Safe and Approved Methods

This unit is for a person required to connect wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment.

This unit is about implementing the correct procedures for connecting wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment appropriate to the electrical system.

You need to show an understanding of:

  • Connecting wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment
  • How to check the connection afterwards using safe methods.

To help with your understanding, the ‘Key Words and Phrases‘ section below gives more details about some of the words and phrases which have been used in this unit.

Unit 307 Key Words & Phrases

An assessment of safe working practices: This includes the use of permits to work (PTW) which form an essential part of safe systems of work for many activities. A PTW covers work which can only be carried out when normal practices are no longer available or when new hazards are introduced as a result of the work.
Connections: This includes: the connection of any item of electrical equipment ensuring that every joint and connection be mechanically and electrically suitable for use and prevent danger.
Means of isolation: This involves: ensuring the item or component is located accessibly and is appropriate for the application whilst having regard to the nature of the equipment and the circumstances under which isolation may be required.
Wiring Systems: This includes: multi-core and single core cables with PVC, XLPE or LSF insulation and sheathing, M I cables with or without PVC/LSF sheathing and SWA cables with PVC, XLPE or LSF insulation and sheathing.
Electrical Equipment: This includes: electrical plant, components and accessories, motors and starters, switch gear and distribution panels, control systems and components, luminaires.

Unit 307 Performance Objectives

You must ensure that: 

  1. You are working within a safe system of work and that you identify any foreseeable hazards relating to the connection of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment
  2. You identify accurately the means of electrical isolation prior to connection
  3. When required, you carry out isolation procedures to ensure a safe connection in accordance with electrical regulations and approved procedures
  4. You make connections in accordance with specifications and comply with IEE wiring regulations as specified in the most recent British Standard for Electrical Installations
  5. You check the connections are electrically and mechanically sound, and ensure that they are identified correctly and clearly
  6. Where appropriate, you take safe and sensible action to remedy any identified defects after connection has taken place
  7. You complete any necessary documentation about the work legibly, accurately and timely in accordance with organisational requirements.
Unit 307 Knowledge Requirements

* Related Performance Objective Number in Red

In order to connect wiring systems and equipment using safe and approved methods you should know and understand the following aspects relating to:

Connecting wiring systems and equipment:

1. The main types, their advantages and limitations of different electrical connections – 4
2. The correct procedures for a safe isolation with regard to:
a) An assessment of safe working practice
b) Correct identification of circuits to be isolated
c) Correct test and proving instruments selected
d) Correct testing methods
e) Correct selection of devises for securing isolation – 2,3
3. The implications for relevant parties of carrying out an isolation – 2,3
4. The procedures for the connection of single and multi-phase circuits – 4
5. How to interpret diagrams and drawings to facilitate the connection of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment – 1
6. The procedures for proving a connection is electrically and mechanically sound – 5
7. How to establish which connections in circuits and protective conductors including connections to terminals are suitable for the purpose for which they are being used – 4
8. The implications on the choice of connections with regard to permanent or temporary purposes – 6
9. The requirements of joints and connections to be of strength and conductance to allow for the passage of fault currents and to prevent corrosion – 5
10. Organisational procedures for completion of necessary documentation – 8

Health and Safety:
11. The importance of using personal protective equipment and safe appropriate tools for specific jobs – All POs
12. Procedures for carrying out an assessment of safe systems of work including permits to work – 1
13. The procedures for reporting any potentially dangerous situations or incidents – 1,7

Principles and theory:
14. IEE wiring regulations as specified in the latest British Standard for Electrical Installations relevant to types and uses of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment – All POs
15. Where to find out about the principles of electrical theory which allow for the safe connection of electrical wiring systems and equipment – All POs

Unit 308 – Inspect, Test and Commission an Electrical Installation

This unit is for anyone required to inspect, test and commission an electrical installation.

This unit is about carrying out the process of inspecting, testing and commissioning electrical installations in a safe manner and in the correct sequence as prescribed by the IEE wiring regulations as specified in the British Standard for Electrical Installations.

You need to show an understanding of:

  • How to commission an electrical installation bearing in mind the constraints imposed by legislation and regulations
  • How to select and use the appropriate testing equipment
  • The importance of keeping good records of the procedures and results.

To help with your understanding, the ‘Key Words and Phrases‘ section below gives more details about some of the words and phrases which have been used in this unit.

Unit 308 Key Words & Phrases

Relevant people: These include: customers, clients, client representatives, chargehands, supervisors, other contractors, colleagues.
An assessment of safe working practices: This includes the use of permits to work (PTW) which form an essential part of safe systems of work for many activities. A PTW covers work which can only be carried out when normal practices are no longer available or when new hazards are introduced as a result of the work.
Means of isolation: This involves: ensuring the item or component is located accessibly and is appropriate for the application whilst having regard to the nature of the equipment and the circumstances under which isolation may be required.
Tests: this includes: tests appropriate to conductors, insulation resistance, polarity, operation of RCDs and earth fault loop impedance.

Unit 308 Performance Objectives

You must ensure that: 

  1. You plan and agree the inspecting, testing and commissioning procedures with relevant people on site
  2. You undertake an assessment of safe working practices in accordance with general and industry specific health and safety regulations
  3. You follow the correct procedures for identifying and carrying out a safe isolation before inspecting, testing and commissioning the electrical installation
  4. You confirm that your test instruments are:
    a) Appropriate to the job in hand
    b) Fit for purpose
    c) In calibration
  5. You conduct an inspection in accordance with the IEE wiring regulations as specified in the British Standard for Electrical Installations
  6. You conduct the required tests in accordance with IEE wiring regulations as specified in the British Standard for Electrical Installations and in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions
  7. You confirm the installation is in accordance with IEE wiring regulations as specified in the British Standard for Electrical Installations and in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions and the specification
  8. You prepare a formal record of testing which confirms the safety and integrity of the installation, in accordance with organisational procedures and IEE wiring regulations as specified in the British Standard for Electrical Installations
  9. You handover the installation to relevant people and ensure that they have sufficient information and documentation for continued safe and effective use of the installation.
Unit 308 Knowledge Requirements

* Related Performance Objective Number in Red

In order to inspect, test and commission an electrical installation you should know and understand the following aspects relating to:

Inspecting, testing and commissioning:

1. The purpose and requirements of the system to be commissioned – 1
2. Procedures for an assessment of safe systems of work including permits to work – 2
3. The correct procedures for a safe isolation with regard to:
a) An assessment of safe working practice
b) Correct identification of circuits to be isolated
c) Correct test and proving instruments selected
d) Use of correct testing methods
e) Correct selection of devices for securing isolation – 3
4. The requirements of an inspection with regard to:
a) Selection, identification and connection of conductors
b) Protection against contact and fire
c) Labeling, access to switchgear and equipment
d) Availability of danger, warning notices, diagrams and instructions – 5
5. The importance of choosing the right instruments for the test – 4
6. The main methods for checking test instruments are functional and in calibration – 4
7. Best practice with regard to methods of testing, their inter-relationship and sequence – 6
8. The importance of accurate labeling and recording of the test – 8
9. The characteristics of different types of cabling and components and how they impact on the test – 2
10. The approved procedures and requirements for commissioning the installation – 7
11. Approved reporting procedures – 8

Health and Safety:
12. Carrying out the tests and the effect on equipment not part of the fixed installation – 6
13. Testing that takes place under live conditions

Principles and theory:
14. IEE wiring regulations as specified in the latest British Standard for Electrical Installations relevant to types and uses of wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment – All POs
15. Where to find out about the principles of electrical theory for the inspection, testing and commissioning of electrical wiring systems and equipment – All POs

Unit 399 – Electrotechnical Occupational Competence (AM2)

This unit is designed to enable learners to demonstrate ‘Electrotechnical occupational competence’ in accordance with approved industry practices and the current statutory and non-statutory regulations:

  • The Electricity at Work Regulations (1989)
  • The current edition of BS7671 Wiring Regulations
  • Health & Safety Act (1974)
  • Building Regulations (2000)
  • Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations
  • Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations
  • Provision & Use of Work Equipment Regulations
  • Manual Handling Operations Regulations
  • Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations
  • Work at Height Regulations
  • Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations
  • Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations

The outcomes and the assessment criteria of this unit underpin the electrotechnical industry’s competence requirements for qualified operatives in an installation or maintenance role.

 

To undertake this unit, learners must provide auditable formal evidence that they have the relevant electrotechnical knowledge, understanding, experience and skills at the appropriate level that enables them to carry out the assessment activities effectively and safely as prescribed for each learning outcome.

This unit must only be assessed in a National Electrotechnical Training (NET) approved centre. All criteria set by NET must be met full and continuously for each assessment. NET, rather than City & Guilds, should be contacted regarding any queries regarding the delivery and/or assessment for this unit.

As with all assessments, the candidates result for this unit must be submitted to City & Guilds on the Walled Garden to allow for certification.

This unit will be assessed by:

  • A knowledge assessment at a NET approved AM2 centre
  • A simulated practical exercise at a NET approved AM2 centre.
Unit 399 Performance Objectives

You must:

1. Be able to interpret specifications, drawings and diagrams

1.1 Interpret specifications and technical data for the installation of:
a) protective earthing systems
b) A ring final circuit
c) A general lighting circuit
d) A control system for a three-phase motor
e) A central heating / sustainable energy system
f) A safety service circuit
g) A data cabling system
h) A three-phase socket-outlet

2. Be able to undertake risk assessments
2.1 Review safe working practices
2.2 Undertake a risk assessment
2.3 Complete risk assessment documentation in accordance with organisational procedures

3. Be able to carry out the safe isolation of electrical circuits and complete electrical installations
3.1 Locate correct means of isolation
3.2 Follow correct procedures for the isolation of electrical circuit(s) and complete electrical installations
3.3 Isolate circuit(s) in correct sequence
3.4 Select correct test and measuring instruments
3.5 Correctly test for the presence of an electrical supply

4. Be able to plan and prepare to install, terminate and connect wiring systems
4.1 In accordance with an installation specification select the correct cables, accessories, equipment, components and protective devices for the installation of:
a) Protective earthing systems
b) A ring final circuit
c) A general lighting circuit
d) The control of a three-phase motor
e) A central heating / sustainable energy system
f) A safety service circuit
g) A data cabling system
h) A three-phase socket-outlet

5. Be able to complete the installation, termination and connection of wiring systems in accordance with industry requirements
5.1 In accordance with an installation specification install, terminate and connect cables, accessories, equipment, components and protective devices for the installation of:
a) Protective earthing systems
b) A ring final circuit
c) A general lighting circuit
d) The control of a three-phase motor
e) A central heating / sustainable energy system
f) A safety service circuit
g) A data cabling system
h) A three-phase socket-outlet

6. Be able to complete the visual inspection, initial verification and certification of an electrical installation
6.1 Comply with correct procedures
6.2 Record relevant findings on correct documentation

7. Be able to complete the testing and certification of an electrical installation in accordance with industry requirements
7.1 Select and use the correct measuring instruments
7.2 Confirm instruments function accurately
7.3 Measure the continuity of protective conductors
7.4 Measure the continuity of ring final circuit conductors
7.5 Measure the insulation resistance of the installation and its circuits
7.6 Confirm the polarity of the installation’s electrical outlets and components
7.7 Determine the installation’s Earth Fault-Loop Impedance (EFLI)
7.8 Determine the installation’s Prospective Fault Current (PFC)
7.9 Carry out functional tests on the installation’s equipment and components
7.10 Complete the correct documentation in accordance with statutory and non-statutory regulations

8. Be able to diagnose, and recommend how to rectify, electrical faults in an electrical installation in accordance with industry requirements
8.1 Undertake an assessment of risk accordingly
8.2 Carry out safe isolation in the correct sequence as appropriate to fault diagnosis procedures
8.3 Select and use correctly, fit for purpose tools, equipment and instruments
8.4 Carry out relevant checks and preparations
8.5 Locate faults from given information
8.6 State how the identified faults can be rectified.

Click on the highlighted link below to find out more details about the four sections in the NET (National Electrotechnical Training Organisation) AM2 Practical Assessment.

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