Wiring Rules amendment now available

The first technical amendment for AS/NZS 3000:2007 Wiring Rules is now available for tradespeople, electricians, regulators, manufacturers, retailers and others working in the electrical industry.

The amendment was published in July 2009 following comprehensive work from the joint Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand Wiring Rules Committee EL-001. It includes clarifications, technical modifications and new information to ensure clearer guidelines and improved safety and reliability of electrical installations, services and systems.

The changes cover a wide range of aspects of the standard including:

• Clause 2.6: Additional protection by residual current devices
• Clause 5.3.3: Earthing system parts - Earthing conductor size (cross sectional area)
• Clause 6.2.4.2: Baths, showers and other fixed water containers - Socket outlets
• Clause 6.3: Swimming pools, paddling pools, spa pools or tubs
• Clause 6.4: Fountains and water features

EL-001 has also prepared a users' guide of Frequently Asked Questions to assist those using the standard. It is available from Standards Australia’s Wiring Rules website at www.wiringrules.com.au.

A project is also underway to revise AS/NZS 3012 Electrical installations - Construction and Demolition Sites which closely correlates with the Wiring Rules. This revision is due for completion early next year.

AS/NZS 3000:2007 is the fifth edition of the Wiring Rules Standard. It was published in November 2007 in a two-part format with parts referenced in the Building Code of Australia.

The amendment is available as a separate document or integrated into AS/NZS 3000-2007. To obtain a copy, visit Standards Australia’s distributor, SAI Global www.saiglobal.com.

The Wiring Rules Committee EL-001 comprises representatives from:

• Association of Consulting Engineers Australia
• Australian Building Codes Board
• Australian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers Association
• Canterbury Manufacturers Association (New Zealand)
• Communications, Electrical and Plumbing Union
• Consumers’ Federation of Australia
• Electrical and Communications Association (Qld)
• Electrical Contractors Association of New Zealand
• Electrical Regulatory Authorities Council
• Electrical Safety Organisation (New Zealand)
• ElectroComms and Energy Utilities Industries Skills Council
• Energy Networks Association
• Engineers Australia
• Institute of Electrical Inspectors
• Ministry of Economic Development (New Zealand)
• National Electrical and Communications Association
• New Zealand Council of Elders
• New Zealand Electrical Institute
• Telstra