“We are committed to consumer protection but we also understand the need for balance – reducing the complexities of Part P, without compromising safety”, according to Phil Buckle, the Electrical Safety Council’s (ESC) director general. 
He was giving evidence to a DCLG Select Committee inquiry into the Building Regulations, in relation to electrical and gas installation and repairs in dwellings. Several other leading electrical industry figures also gave evidence.
He continued: “We have, therefore, worked closely with industry to see how this can best be developed. We also see the ESC’s expertise in campaigning as a strength which can benefit both consumers and industry, by supporting an integrated approach to the promotion of Part P”.
The Committee’s investigation will feed into the Government’s ongoing review of the Building Regulations – and Part P in particular – with a view to reducing red tape and cutting costs.
Phil Buckle reiterated some key points which the ESC had previously submitted as written evidence, such as:
Part P is the only legal framework in England that protects the consumer from unsafe electrical installation work in the home.
Part P has had a significant impact on safety – with fires attributed to mains wiring reduced by 17.5%, from 1,057 in 2004, to 872 in 2008 (CLG statistics).
Approximately 50% of the housing stock in England does not have adequate RCD protection – so Part P is important not only in relation to new and upgraded work but also to support regular checks on older housing stock
Additional benefits of Part P – other than peace of mind from using a competent person – include a warranty covering the work and the availability of a complaints procedure, should it be needed.
The ESC would support a reduction in the type of work that is notifiable, as long as it does not extend to bathrooms or kitchens. These are higher-risk areas, the safety of which cannot be compromised.
More information: www.esc.org.uk