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The Truth About the 19th Edition Wiring Regulations and the 18th Edition Amendment 4

At Learn Trade Skills, we understand how vital it is for both aspiring and experienced electricians to stay informed about the latest regulatory changes. With discussions around the 19th Edition Wiring Regulations and the 18th Edition Amendment 4 gaining traction, we’ve noticed growing confusion—especially concerning release timelines and qualification requirements. This article, presented by our Director Tolga Aramaz, aims to dispel myths, clarify facts, and provide clear guidance on what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and how you can best prepare to remain compliant and confident in your electrical career. In my role as Director at Learn Trade Skills (LTS), I often find myself answering crucial questions regarding industry standards and upcoming regulatory changes. Lately, I've observed increasing confusion and misinformation about the 19th Edition Wiring Regulations and Amendment 4 of the 18th Edition. Given the importance of accurate information, I want to address these misunderstandings clearly and authoritatively, ensuring our learners and professionals remain well-informed and prepared.

Introduction

In my role as CEO at Learn Trade Skills (LTS), I often find myself answering crucial questions regarding industry standards and upcoming regulatory changes. Lately, I’ve observed increasing confusion and misinformation about the 19th Edition Wiring Regulations and Amendment 4 of the 18th Edition. Given the importance of accurate information, I want to address these misunderstandings clearly and authoritatively, ensuring our learners and professionals remain well-informed and prepared.

Clarifying the 19th Edition Wiring Regulations

Let’s get straight to the point: there are currently no confirmed or official plans for releasing the 19th Edition Wiring Regulations. Despite some rumours circulating online—especially on unofficial websites and forums—the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), responsible for these standards, has made no announcements regarding the introduction of a new edition at this time.

In fact, the next significant update electricians and electrical professionals should be preparing for is the forthcoming Amendment 4 to the 18th Edition. It’s critical to differentiate clearly between amendments and entirely new editions, as misunderstanding these can lead to professional and educational missteps.

Understanding the 18th Edition Amendment 4

Amendment 4 of the 18th Edition is currently in the draft phase and scheduled for official publication in 2026. This update is not minor—it’s set to include several significant revisions aimed at aligning UK standards with rapidly evolving European and international guidelines. It’s an essential response to technological advances that continue to reshape our industry.

Here’s a detailed overview of the main expected inclusions in Amendment 4:

Stationary Secondary Batteries

With the increasing reliance on renewable energy sources, stationary secondary batteries, such as those used in solar power installations and battery storage systems, have gained prominence. Amendment 4 will clarify installation standards, ensuring safety and performance consistency across installations.

Low-Voltage Generating Sets

Given the growing use of generators—both portable and stationary—clear and robust guidance will be introduced. This will help installers navigate the complexities of connecting generators safely to electrical systems, especially in scenarios of power backup and renewable energy integration.

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

PoE technology, increasingly common for powering devices like IP cameras, Wi-Fi access points, and VoIP phones, requires precise installation standards. Amendment 4 will address these requirements explicitly, helping electricians adapt to the intricacies involved in safe and compliant PoE installations.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency isn’t just a trend; it’s becoming a regulatory cornerstone. The new amendment will include explicit guidelines aimed at maximising efficiency in electrical installations, contributing to the UK’s broader environmental targets and ensuring that electrical professionals remain at the forefront of sustainability practices.

Functional Earthing & Equipotential Bonding for ICT Equipment

Amendment 4 will enhance clarity on the increasingly complex requirements surrounding earthing and equipotential bonding, particularly in information and communication technology (ICT) installations. This will help electricians navigate the unique challenges posed by sophisticated digital systems.

Practical Advice for Learners and Professionals

At Learn Trade Skills, we’ve received numerous inquiries from learners asking whether they should delay their training, awaiting the hypothetical arrival of the 19th Edition. My firm advice is straightforward:

Do not delay your qualification.

Here’s why:

No Immediate 19th Edition Release: With no confirmed date for a new edition, postponing your training is an unnecessary risk. You may inadvertently hinder your professional progress and career development.
Current Validity of the 18th Edition: The 18th Edition Amendment 2 (2022), commonly known as the ‘brown book,’ along with Amendment 3 (2024), remains the latest official regulatory framework. This version will remain relevant and authoritative until at least 2026, when Amendment 4 is released.
Continuous Professional Development: While amendments typically do not require complete retaking of qualifications, staying current with amendments and changes is a hallmark of professionalism and ensures you maintain your competitive edge.

Guarding Against Misinformation

Unfortunately, misinformation around wiring regulations is common. As an industry leader, I regularly see incorrect claims online—recently, a site falsely announced a 2025 release date for the 19th Edition, creating needless confusion.

I urge everyone—learners and seasoned professionals alike—to rely only on official communication from the IET and BSI (British Standards Institution). These organisations remain your definitive sources of accurate, authoritative information. Regularly visiting their websites and subscribing to their official updates is highly recommended.

Staying Informed and Prepared

To stay ahead, you need the latest, accurate information. At Learn Trade Skills, our commitment is unwavering—we continuously monitor and communicate all relevant updates directly to our learners and professionals. Through our courses and workshops, you’re not only updated about regulations but trained extensively in their practical applications, ensuring your competence and compliance.

If you haven’t already completed your wiring regulations qualification, I strongly recommend enrolling in our City & Guilds 18th Edition (C&G 2382-22) training programme. Our expert trainers will ensure you’re thoroughly versed in the current regulatory framework, fully preparing you for the future developments embodied in Amendment 4.

Conclusion

Navigating regulatory changes in our industry is essential not only for compliance but also for the safety and success of our work. Understanding and applying these regulations correctly impacts lives daily. At Learn Trade Skills, our mission is clear: empower every electrical professional with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills.

Stay updated, stay qualified, and above all, prioritise clarity and accuracy in your professional practice.

Thank you for your continued trust.

Tolga Aramaz

Director at Learn Trade Skills | + posts

Tolga Aramaz is the Director of Learn Trade Skills (LTS), a family-run training centre specialising in electrical installations. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the electrical industry, Tolga is known for their exceptional organisational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering outstanding results. They provide valuable insights and guidance to electricians, contractors, and businesses, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and safety protocols. Through engaging training programmes and consultancy services, Tolga empowers professionals to excel in their roles, fostering long-term relationships built on professionalism and customer satisfaction.

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The Truth About the 19th Edition Wiring Regulations and the 18th Edition Amendment 4