Ex
EPIT

FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions regarding our courses and/or course content. If you require any further or more specific information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

18th Edition

What’s the difference between the 17th and 18th Edition?

The 18th includes new regulations on energy efficiency, arc fault detection, surge protection, prosumers (smart grids), and other safety improvements.

Do I need the 18th Edition if I already have the 17th Edition?

Yes, if you are still working in the industry, it’s recommended to update to the 18th Edition to stay compliant with the latest regulations.

What does 18th Edition mean?

Often referred to as the IET Wiring Regulations, the 18th Edition is the latest set of rules governing electrical installations in the UK. It ensures electrical work is carried out safely and to the latest standards.

How much does it cost to do the 18th Edition?

At EPIT Group, 3 day training course titled IET Wiring Regulations 18th Edition (BS 7671: 2018+A4:2026) costs £615, excluding VAT

What are the entry requirements for the 18th Edition?

There are no formal entry requirements. The course is open to anyone, but it’s particularly relevant for electricians, engineers, and anyone working with electrical systems.

Is the 18th Edition exam hard?

The exam is multiple-choice and open-book, meaning you can refer to the Wiring Regulations book during the test. Preparation is key, but with study, most candidates pass successfully.

How long does the 18th Edition course take?

Courses typically last between 1-3 days, depending on whether you study full-time, part-time, or online.

Do I need the 18th Edition to be an electrician?

Yes, if you work as an electrician in the UK, you’ll need to be up to date with the latest regulations. It’s often a requirement for employment or working on-site.

What happens if I fail the 18th Edition exam?

If you don’t pass the exam, you can retake it.

How long is the 18th Edition qualification valid for?

There is no official expiry date, but new amendments or editions may be introduced over time. It’s recommended to stay updated with any regulatory changes.

What is the pass mark for the 18th Edition exam?

The pass mark for the theory assessment is 60%.
To gain the qualification attendees must successfully pass both the theory and the practical assessments.

Can I do the 18th Edition course without experience?

Yes, but it’s beneficial to have some electrical knowledge as the course is technical.

Electrical Safety

Does all electrical equipment for use in hazardous areas have to be submitted to a test house for certification?

No, electrical equipment in category 1, i.e. suitable for use in Zone 0,1 and 2 must be submitted to a test house (now known as a notified body) for EC Type Examination Certification. This also applies to category 2 equipment (i.e. suitable for use in Zone 1 and 2) . Equipment in category 3, i.e. suitable only for use in Zone 2 need only be subject to self certification by the manufacturer. For all electrical equipment for use in hazardous areas, the manufacturer must issue an EC Declaration of Conformity with his product.

What’s the difference between the 17th and 18th Edition?

The 18th includes new regulations on energy efficiency, arc fault detection, surge protection, prosumers (smart grids), and other safety improvements.

Do I need the 18th Edition if I already have the 17th Edition?

Yes, if you are still working in the industry, it’s recommended to update to the 18th Edition to stay compliant with the latest regulations.

What jobs require the 18th Edition qualification?

Electricians, electrical engineers, contractors, and anyone responsible for electrical installations will likely need this qualification.

Explosion Protection

If an enclosure is marked II 2 GD and also Ex db IIC T5 Gb IP 66, Ex tb IIIC T100 Db, what is the meaning of the upper case and the lower case ‘d’s?

The upper case D is part of the ATEX labelling and indicates that the equipment is for use in areas where the explosion hazard is Dust (the G indicates Gas Hazard). The lower case d indicates the method of Ex protection, in this case flameproof.

I have an Ex eb electric motor which is labelled as T3, I understand this to mean that the temperature reached by any part of the motor will not be any greater than 200°C. Is this the case and do I need to consider ambient temperature effects?

This is true, but the equipment must be installed in a location where the ambient temperature range does not exceed the ambient temperature range that the equipment has been designed for.

A flameproof Ex db enclosure has a 32mm entry and we need to use it for a 20mm cable gland, is it permissible to use two reducers to achieve this?

Yes, BS EN IEC 60079-14, the standard for electrical installation of equipment states that to accommodate the entry devices and other fittings it is permitted to use either a single adapter; or one adapter with one reducer; or a maximum of two reducers. The standard also states that a blanking element (stopping plug) shall not be used with adapters.

HV/LV

Who needs HV/LV certification?

Professionals working with the installation, maintenance, and testing of HV/LV equipment, such as electrical engineers, maintenance technicians, and facilities managers, typically require HV/LV certification.

Are EPIT’s HV/LV courses recognised within the industry?

Yes, EPIT’s courses are recognised and utilised by many major operations and service companies, giving them industry recognition and enhancing career prospects for certified professionals.

How often do I need to renew my HV/LV certification?

A certificate is valid for 5 years, to schedule your course to renew your certification, get in touch with the team at EPIT. Email: info@epitgroup.com

Why is HV/LV certification important?

HV/LV certification ensures that professionals are equipped to handle electrical systems safely, in compliance with health and safety legislation, including the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. This certification is critical in industries with high risk environments like oil and gas, offshore, and renewable energy.

What types of HV/LV courses are available at EPIT?

EPIT offers a range of courses, including the HV/LV Safe Working Practices Awareness Course, High Voltage Safe Working Practices (ROV), HV/LV Electrical Protection, and HV/LV Safe Working Practices, each tailored to specific industry and job requirements.

HV/LV Course Page

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an HV/LV course?

The prerequisites vary depending on the course, but generally, participants are expected to have a background in electrical, instrument, or mechanical fields. Some prior experience with HV or LV systems is beneficial, especially for advanced courses. Basic safety knowledge is also essential, and since the courses are taught in English, a working proficiency in the language is required. For physically demanding courses, participants may need to be in good physical condition to perform practical exercises.

ATEX

What is the difference between Zone 21 and Zone 22?

Zone 21: an area in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air is likely (put likely in bold) to occur, occasionally, in normal operation

Zone 22:  an area in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air is not likely (put not likely in bold) to occur in normal operation but, if it does occur, will persist for a short period only

What is the UK equivalent of ATEX for hazardous area equipment?

UKCA ‘Ex’ which is achieved by complying with the requirements of S.I. 2016/1107 – The Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2016.

Does ATEX mean explosion proof?

No. ATEX is European legislation for the protection of workers potentially at risk from explosive atmospheres and for equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.

Explosion proof is one of many Ex equipment protection methods.

What is the different between ATEX and DSEAR?

ATEX is European legislation for the protection of workers potentially at risk from explosive atmospheres and for equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.

DSEAR (Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002) is UK legislation that requires employers to control fire and explosion risks in the workplace.

How long does ATEX certification last?

ATEX certificates have no defined expiry date and can remain valid for the products lifetime provided the design, manufacturing process, and standards do not change.

CompEx

Is CompEx training a legal requirement?

CompEx is not a legal requirement; however, it is widely recognised across industry as the benchmark competency certification for personnel working in hazardous and explosive atmospheres. Many employers operating in hazardous areas require employees and contractors to hold a valid CompEx qualification to demonstrate competence and compliance with industry standards.

Is ATEX the same as CompEx?

No. ATEX refers to the two European Directives that provide mandatory legislative requirements for equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (DIRECTIVE 2014/34/EU), and the safety and health protection of workers potentially at risk from explosive atmospheres (DIRECTIVE 1999/92/EC). CompEx is an internationally recognised competency certification scheme designed to assess the knowledge and practical skills of personnel working with electrical and instrumentation equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres.

How long does a CompEx certificate last?

CompEx certificates are typically valid for 5 years from the date of issue. To maintain certification, candidates must complete the Recognised Practitioner Programme (RPP), formerly known as the CompEx Refresher, before expiry.

What happens if you fail a CompEx assessment?

Candidates who do not successfully complete the assessments may be eligible for resits in accordance with CompEx scheme rules. Resits must normally be completed within 12 months of the original assessment date.

How do I get a CompEx certificate?

To achieve CompEx certification, delegates must successfully complete both theoretical and practical assessments during the course. Training includes classroom learning, hands-on practical exercises, and competency-based assessment in a realistic hazardous area working environment.

What are the entry requirements for CompEx?

There are no mandatory entry requirements for the CompEx Ex01–Ex04 course; however, delegates are recommended to have an electrical or instrumentation background and relevant industry experience. Candidates attending the CompEx RPP must hold a current and valid CompEx Ex01–Ex04 certificate.

What is the pass rate for CompEx refresher?

EPIT has achieved excellent pass rates for delegates attending CompEx training and RPP courses. Delegates who complete EPIT’s recommended e-learning modules before attending training have achieved pass rates in excess of 90%.

How much does the CompEx exam cost?

CompEx course costs vary depending on the module, training location, and delivery format. Course fees typically include training materials, assessments, and refreshments during classroom attendance. For current pricing and available course dates, please contact EPIT directly or visit the EPIT training calendar.

Is CompEx globally recognised?

Yes. The CompEx scheme is internationally recognised across a wide range of industries where hazardous and explosive atmospheres are present, including oil & gas, petrochemical, energy, and manufacturing sectors. CompEx certification demonstrates competence in hazardous area working practices and is accepted by employers worldwide.

Is e-learning included with EPIT CompEx courses?

Yes. Delegates booking selected CompEx courses with EPIT receive complimentary access to relevant explosion protection e-learning modules before attending classroom training, helping improve understanding and preparation.

Who should attend a CompEx course?

CompEx courses are designed for electrical and instrumentation personnel involved in the selection, installation, inspection, and maintenance of equipment used in potentially hazardous and explosive atmospheres.

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  • 15 working days or less prior to the course start date, 100% cancellation charge will apply.
  • 16-20 working days prior to the course start date, 50% cancellation charge will apply.
  • 21-25 working days prior to the course start date, 25% cancellation charge will apply.

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CompEx Entry Requirements Guidance

Gases & Vapours (EX01 – Ex04)

Electrical / Instrument Craftpersons & Engineers Install, Inspect & Maintain: Gas & Vapours

Header Column #1
IndustriesPrincipal to all Ex environments, with direct application in hazardous vapour and gas environments.
Entry Qualifications
Guidance		Level 3, ECS Gold Card, National Diploma or equivalent. Disipline:
  • Electrotechnical
  • Instrumentation
Subject to knowledge, skill and experience candidates may benefit from Ex F+
Entry Knowledge - Expected
  • Knows the relevant legislative, regulatory, local requirements
  • Understands procedures for safe working practice and systems of work in an industrial setting
  • Can read and interpret relevant engineering drawings, related specifications, quality standards and equipment manuals
  • Understands the hierarchy of responsibilities in relation to reporting and decision-making
Entry Skills - Expected
  • Practical skills in engineering assembly of a complexity consistent with that of a level 3 craftsperson
  • Can apply safe working practices including safe isolation to meet the requirements of statutory and non-statutory regulations
  • Can safely install, inspect, test, commission, diagnose and correct faults in electrical plant, instrumentation, associated cabling, cabling supports and equipment
  • Can select, gland & terminate industrial type cables to a suitable component and associated cable tray in line with details on the appropriate specification
  • Can interpret manufacturers documentation for correct installation,maintenance and inspection
Job Roles
Aspiring to or operating in
  • Installation or Maintenance Electrician
  • Electrical or Instrument Technician
  • Engineers
Entry Experience
Guidance
  • 2 + years' experience operating in a site / industrial environment
  • Installing, inspecting, testing and/or maintaining equipment in an industrial setting
Entry Knowledge - Desirable
  • Understands the need for and methods of achieving safe working practice in gas and vapour Ex environments
  • Has basic practical, theoretical and technological knowledge and understanding of gas and vapour Ex environments
  • Has a basic understanding of the requirements, materials and equipment considerations, in relation to working in gas and vapour Ex environments
Entry Skills - Desirable
  • Can select and install a variety of Ex certified cables glands and terminate conductors into equipment
  • Can understand the principles of electrical protection concepts including selection, installation and maintenance
  • Understands intrinsically safe concept of protection and installation including the importance of documentation
  • Can inspect new and existing equipment in accordance with appropriate inspection techniques relevant to the different grades of inspection

CompEx Entry Requirements Guidance

Gases & Vapours (EX01 – Ex04)

Electrical / Instrument Craftpersons & Engineers Install, Inspect & Maintain: Gas & Vapours

Header Column #1
IndustriesPrincipal to all Ex environments, with direct application in hazardous vapour and gas environments.
Entry Qualifications
Guidance		Level 3, ECS Gold Card, National Diploma or equivalent. Disipline:
  • Electrotechnical
  • Instrumentation
Subject to knowledge, skill and experience candidates may benefit from Ex F+
Entry Knowledge - Expected
  • Knows the relevant legislative, regulatory, local requirements
  • Understands procedures for safe working practice and systems of work in an industrial setting
  • Can read and interpret relevant engineering drawings, related specifications, quality standards and equipment manuals
  • Understands the hierarchy of responsibilities in relation to reporting and decision-making
Entry Skills - Expected
  • Practical skills in engineering assembly of a complexity consistent with that of a level 3 craftsperson
  • Can apply safe working practices including safe isolation to meet the requirements of statutory and non-statutory regulations
  • Can safely install, inspect, test, commission, diagnose and correct faults in electrical plant, instrumentation, associated cabling, cabling supports and equipment
  • Can select, gland & terminate industrial type cables to a suitable component and associated cable tray in line with details on the appropriate specification
  • Can interpret manufacturers documentation for correct installation,maintenance and inspection
Job Roles
Aspiring to or operating in
  • Installation or Maintenance Electrician
  • Electrical or Instrument Technician
  • Engineers
Entry Experience
Guidance
  • 2 + years' experience operating in a site / industrial environment
  • Installing, inspecting, testing and/or maintaining equipment in an industrial setting
Entry Knowledge - Desirable
  • Understands the need for and methods of achieving safe working practice in gas and vapour Ex environments
  • Has basic practical, theoretical and technological knowledge and understanding of gas and vapour Ex environments
  • Has a basic understanding of the requirements, materials and equipment considerations, in relation to working in gas and vapour Ex environments
Entry Skills - Desirable
  • Can select and install a variety of Ex certified cables glands and terminate conductors into equipment
  • Can understand the principles of electrical protection concepts including selection, installation and maintenance
  • Understands intrinsically safe concept of protection and installation including the importance of documentation
  • Can inspect new and existing equipment in accordance with appropriate inspection techniques relevant to the different grades of inspection