[ Focus: International representation ]


these meetings we are there in the role of UK experts, not just representing the ECA. For example, JPEL 64 will appoint delegates to represent the UK at committee meetings and forums about IEC 60364. Clearly, though, in representing the UK’s interests as a whole we are also representing the interests of ECA members.


ET: With so much international collaboration, are there any parties that dominate others? GD: No one body is dominant, but it’s certainly true that different countries have different agendas and some are more influenced by third parties than others.


ET: What does the ECA do to maximise the UK’s influence in these groups and committees? GD: As I mentioned earlier, decision-making is through consensus so we work hard to agree common stances with other bodies. For instance, we have regular discussions with the European Association of Electrical Contractors (AIE), which brings together electrical contractor trade associations from across Europe. The ECA is a member of the AIE. The ECA sits on the AIE task forces, reviewing issues in particular areas. We have a strong influence and input in those areas, and have established important connections with other European associations. We also develop a better understanding of


standards within other European countries, which can give an advantage to ECA members who need expert technical information about working overseas. From those task forces at the AIE, we can establish a position on an issue or lobby the EU for a change, which would then go to CENELEC or IEC. So we have significant influence on the process.


ET: Where does the main opposition come from to proposals from contractor organisations? GD: Where we sometimes differ, it can be with the manufacturers, because they have a different agenda. However, that’s not to say that manufacturers don’t have a role to play. Their specialist knowledge in relation to installation can be invaluable, so we do appreciate the input of specialist channels such as BEAMA (the British Electrotechnical and Allied Manufacturers’ Association).


ET: Can you provide examples of how manufacturers’ interests may differ from those of electrical contractors? GD: A current example relates to the use of arc fault detection devices. Use of these is growing rapidly in the USA and, unsurprisingly, the manufacturers would also like to sell these products into the European market. To that end, they are lobbying for changes to IEC 60364 that would introduce a requirement for such equipment to be included on most, if not all, new electrical circuits. However, a lot more information is required on this subject; the situation in the USA is very different to Europe. They have many more timber-framed buildings than Europe and their use of 110V mains


The ECA’s involvement is essential as part of the UK’s wider input into the development of industry technical standards


supply results in bigger fault currents and potentially bigger arcs. This means their fire risk is higher, so they have a stronger argument for changing their own regulations. But there is no clear justification for amending European regulations in this way, unless further information and research proves otherwise.


ET: Can ECA members get more involved in standards work? GD: We represent ECA members but we’re more than happy for them to participate. Members have a great deal of technical expertise and practical experience that can be of great benefit in helping to ensure regulations are fit for purpose for electrical contractors. Consequently, we are delighted when members want to get involved. For example, the ECA is involved in all the JPEL panels and special working groups that have been reviewing all the proposed amendments for the 17th Edition Amendment 3. This work is then taken back to be discussed within the ECA’s technical committees, formerly the ECA Power committee – now the ECA Technical committee – and ECA ITEC committee – now the ECA Information Communication and Controls Technologies (ICCT) committee. The input and policy decided by these committees


is then taken back as the ECA position to the JPEL panels. As we’re active in all these groups, that provides a strong influence on decisions the JPEL committees and panels are making.


ET: Can you give us any examples of a specific standard you are working on at the moment? GD: A good example is a recent addition to IEC 60364 that relates to categorising the energy efficiency of low voltage electrical installations. It is designed to reduce long cable runs and unnecessary cable losses through better design. This will be designated IEC 60364-8-1. We have


been working on it for around three years, and it will eventually become part of BS 7671 – probably in another two years or so. At that point it may also be referenced in the Building Regulations Approved Document L and it may also be included as part of BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method) certification in the future. Another example is the work on standardisation of


inspection and testing schedules in IEC 60364-6 and our National BS7671, which covers verification and testing of low voltage installations.


ET: How would you summarise the work of the ECA in the development of standards? GD: The ECA’s involvement is essential as part of the UK’s wider input into the development of industry technical standards. If we don’t have that involvement, we won’t have sufficient early warning to prepare for new and revised standards that are in the pipeline. We could also end up with no say in standards that can have a major impact on our members’ work.


December 2013 ECA Today 29


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