Electrical Safety and the Law

Electrical Safety and the Law describes the hazards and risks from the use of electricity, explaining with the help of case studies and accident statistics the types of accidents that occur and how they can be prevented by the use of safe installations, equipment and working practices. It describes British legislation on the safety of electrical systems and electrotechnical machinery control systems, much of which stems from European Directives and which will therefore be affected by the UK’s decision to leave the EU (Brexit), and the main standards and guidance that can be used to secure compliance with the law. There are detailed descriptions covering the risks and preventive measures associated with electrical installations, construction sites, work near underground cables and overhead power lines, electrical equipment and installations in explosive atmospheres, electrical testing, and electrotechnical control systems. Duty holders’ responsibilities for designing, installing, and maintaining safe systems are explained, as well as their responsibilities for employing competent staff.

The fifth edition has been substantially updated to take account of considerable changes to the law, standards and guidance; it has been expanded to include:

• a new chapter on the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act;
• a new chapter describing landlords’ legal responsibilities for electrical safety in private rented properties and social housing;
• a new chapter on the Electricity Safety Quality and Continuity Regulations;
• new information on offences, penalties, sentencing guidelines, and relevant case law;
• a description of the main requirements of BS 7671:2008 and other principal standards, many of which have been amended in recent years;
• new cases studies to illustrate the hazards and risks;
• information on changes to GB’s health and safety system.

John Madden CEng FIET is a former HM Principal Specialist Inspector (Electrical Engineering) with the Health & Safety Executive and now an electrical safety consultant. He has substantial experience of accident investigation and acting as an expert witness in criminal trials, civil proceedings, Fatal Accident Inquiries, and inquests.