The MCB Debate That's Dividing The Industry...

The MCB debate that's dividing the industry...

A major debate has erupted in the electrical trade over if surge protection devices installed without a dedicated MCB comply with the Wiring Regulations. At the centre is Regulation 534.4.5.1, which requires SPDs to be protected against overcurrent, but allows that protection to be internal to the SPD if the manufacturer says so. Some manufacturers argue that compliance with BS EN 61439-3 and reliance on the upstream DNO cut-out fuse is sufficient, while others insist an MCB or additional protection is still required.

Trade bodies, manufacturers, and installers are split. Napit has promised urgent guidance, but for now electricians are left navigating conflicting advice, limited space in consumer units, and the risk of unintended departures from BS 7671.

Landlords face new electrical testing expectations

New requirements for electrical safety checks in social housing are moving a step closer.

The UK’s social housing regulator is consulting on plans to add electrical safety testing to its tenant satisfaction measures, following the government’s commitment to make five-yearly EICRs mandatory for social landlords. The move stems from recommendations made after the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, which called for regular, compulsory electrical testing in social homes.

If approved, the new requirement would apply to rental and shared-ownership properties owned by registered providers, with large landlords expected to comply from the 2026–27 reporting year. The consultation remains open until the 3rd of March.

No ties, no tools, no fuss: Linian’s new Tray Clip

Linian has launched a new hand-fit cable tray clip that works with any brand of tray and requires no tools or steel cable ties. Made in the UK from fire-rated steel, the BS 7671–compliant clips are available in five sizes, offer pull-out forces of up to 200 kg, and are designed to prevent premature cable collapse in the event of a fire — while dramatically reducing installation time.

THANKS TO OUR PREMIUM PARTNERS

New year, new job… chief executive, anyone?

The NICEIC is recruiting a new Chief Executive Officer, offering a salary of £200,000 per year plus benefits. The role includes a mix of home working and regular attendance at the organisation’s Dunstable office. The successful candidate will be expected to lead the organisation with a strong customer focus, communicate authentically, and engage a wide range of stakeholders. No electrical qualifications are required. Applications close on Monday 5 January.

Powering the future of
zero-bills living...

AlphaESS UK has partnered with Octopus Energy, making its residential battery storage range fully compatible with Octopus’ intelligent and dynamic tariffs, including Flux, Intelligent Go, Go and Cosy. The move is expected to create new opportunities for installers and boost uptake of AlphaESS systems, particularly the Smile G3 battery and inverter, which offers modular, plug-and-play installation, wide power options, generator support and IP65-rated flexibility for indoor or outdoor use.

Enter once, win all season - Knipex Tool Of The Week is live

It's time to enter the Tool of the Week, in association with Knipex - running every week through the Premier league season. Enter once and you’ll be in the draw every week. Each week, Knipex picks new winners to receive top-quality tools.