NICEIC and ELECSA have announced that more than 1000 contractors have now successfully taken and passed their 18th Edition training.
The 18th Edition was officially launched in July this year with electrical contractors given a six-month transition period to get up to speed with the changes. While some contractors have decided to delay any training, others have reportedly been keen to get going straight away.
Neil Vincent, Training Manager at NICEIC and ELECSA, said: “It has been interesting to see people’s attitude towards training since the 18th was launched. Some have been extra keen and jumped straight in and others are still biding their time and looking to do it over the next 3-6 months.
“Everyone is different and with the six month window we know everyone will have a different approach. We have had more than 3000 bookings in total so far with many preferring to take the course over the next few months so it is going to be busy in the run up to January.”
NICEIC and ELECSA currently run two different 18th Edition courses. The full course takes three days and is for contractors who feel they need a working knowledge of the latest edition of the Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671:2018 qualification.
The update course is a one-day option for those who have recently completed their 17th edition Amendment 3: 2015 qualification.
Both courses can be taken online or in the classroom and there has been a real split in the type of course and the way contractors are choosing to access training.
Neil added: “In terms of the full version and the update course, we are seeing a real 50/50 split. We expected that as many contractors chose to update their training requirements at the time of the last amendment in 2015.
“It is also curious to see that the majority of bookings are for classroom based learning where contractors can discuss and share information with fellow electricians.
“However, there is definitely a growing demand for online training too and it is totally down to the individual and what they prefer. By offering both options contractors have that choice.”
A partnership with JTL also means contractors choosing NICEIC and ELECSA now have the option to take the course at more than 35 locations across the UK.
In addition, NICEIC and ELECSA can also offer in house training for companies looking to train large numbers of employees in one go.
Neil concluded: “We can offer a range of options to all contractors. For any individual or organisation that has not yet booked in their training, we would encourage them to get in touch and speak to our team.
“An ability to show a level of understanding and awareness of the changes should be a priority for everyone involved in the electrical industry.”
For more information visit 18edition.com or call the training team on 0333 015 6626.
