Ask the Expert: EICRs and the use of FI

January 27, 2025

Whether you’re navigating complex installations, troubleshooting challenging systems, or looking for guidance on the latest industry standards and technologies, Darren Staniforth, Head of Electrotechnical Solutions at CEF, is here to help.

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Question:

Issue 7 of Best Practice Guide 4: Electrical Installation Condition Reporting introduces a new approach to the use of the Further Investigation (FI) code. What does the change mean for Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs)?

Answer:

Outside of JPEL/64, the Wiring Regulations committee, industry bodies regularly come together to discuss guidance for the electrical industry on various topics. The outcomes of these discussions are published by Electrical Safety First (ESF) as best practice guides. These free PDFs are available via the ESF website and some scheme providers’ websites and portals.

Recently, Best Practice Guide 4: Electrical Installation Condition Reporting was reviewed and updated, with Issue 7 now available. This guide exists to clarify the correct use of classification codes (C1, C2, C3, FI) during the periodic inspection and testing of electrical installations, considering the requirements of BS 7671. While primarily focused on domestic and similar installations, the guidance can also apply to other types of installations in comparable situations.

Issue 7 changes

The new Issue 7 document marks a notable change in approach regarding the use of the FI code. In the past, examples of when the FI code should be applied were provided. However, the current version includes minimal reference to FI, reflecting a consensus across the industry that the FI code has been overused or misused. In many cases, observations were identified, but the FI code was incorrectly attributed.

This change aligns with proposed amendments to BS 7671. A proposal published by BSI towards the end of last year suggests modifying the definition of ‘Further Investigation’. Currently, FI is defined as ‘further investigation required without delay’. The proposed revision would change this to ‘further investigation recommended’.

Additionally, FI presently results in an ‘Unsatisfactory’ outcome on the EICR. If the proposed changes are adopted, FIs would be grouped with C3 observations, potentially allowing for a ‘Satisfactory’ outcome, depending on other factors affecting the inspection.

Industry concerns

These changes have raised concerns among electrical designers, inspectors and contractors across the UK. Many fear that the revised approach could hinder their ability to complete EICRs effectively, potentially leaving parts of an installation uninspected and dangerous items unidentified. Some argue that the current definition of FI in BS 7671 provides necessary protection, allowing them to highlight areas requiring further attention to clients.

Through discussions with IET engineers during recent CEF TechTalks, it became evident that in many cases, other classification codes should have been used. Inspectors should also utilise the ‘operational limitations’ section to note when an inspection is incomplete due to time constraints or physical barriers, rather than relying on the FI code as a fallback.

The future of FI

Examples presented to industry bodies clearly demonstrate that the FI code has been overused or misused in its current format. While the proposed changes represent a significant shift, they are necessary for ensuring the accurate application of classification codes. However, successful adoption will require extensive education and clear communication across the industry.

By addressing these issues and embracing the changes, the industry can ensure that EICRs continue to be effective tools for safeguarding electrical installations while maintaining professional standards.

cef.co.uk

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This article appeared in Electrotechnical News Jan/Feb 2025 edition – read it here