11.01.2010
In order to facilitate the operation of the new electrical safety regime, the Commission for Energy Regulation’s focus over the past three months has shifted towards the publication of the Common Procedures, and the development of a Performance Reporting Framework for the Safety Supervisory Bodies (SSBs).
Additionally, the CER has made a modification to the Criteria Document, and entered into discussions with ETCI and the SSBs regarding the development of a common assessment for the Certification & Verification course.
Common Procedures
On 21st July 2009, the Commission published Common Procedures (CER/09/107) regarding
Certification, Third Party Inspections, Change of Contractor and Enforcement. Consequently, Registered Electrical Contractors (RECs) are required to adhere to the new obligations imposed under the Common Procedures, which constitute a part of the Criteria Document.
Although the Common Procedures are fully operational, the Commission has noted that a period of adjustment will be required to enable RECs to comply fully with the new regulatory
environment. Therefore, prior to 1st January 2010, the Safety Supervisory Bodies (SSBs) will only initiate disciplinary proceedings against RECs for breaches of the National Wiring Rules and Section D 4.1 of the Criteria Document (CER/08/071).
However, from 1st January 2010, disciplinary proceedings will be taken by the SSBs against RECs for failure to adhere to the National Wiring Rules, the Criteria Document, and the Common Procedures associated with the Criteria Document.
Modification to Criteria Document
The Commission completed an internal legal review of the Joint Disciplinary Committee (JDC) process, as detailed in Section D of the Criteria Document, due to concerns raised by the SSBs regarding the role of the Complaints Officer and the JDC.
Based on comments received from the SSBs and recommendations arising from the internal legal review, the Commission amended Section D of the Criteria Document. Essentially, the CER clarified the remit of the Complaints Officer regarding the assessment of a complaint, and the process by which the JDC adjudicates on a complaint.
Further detailed information regarding the modification is available on the CER website under decision paper CER/09/174.
Certification & Verification Course
The CER has entered into discussions with ETCI and the SSBs regarding the development of a common assessment for the Certification & Verification course. Essentially, the completion of a
Certification & Verification course enables an REC to become a Qualified Certifier, thereby permitting him/her to certify Controlled Works. At present, ETCI and the SSBs offer separate Certification & Verification courses to RECs. However, in order to ensure consistency within the
industry, all parties highlighted the need for increased harmonisation through the development of a common assessment programme.
Consequently, the CER is currently drafting proposals regarding the development of a common assessment for the Certification & Verification course, which will lead to the establishment of a training working group for Certification & Verification.
Ongoing Performance Reporting
The low voltage electrical safety industry has witnessed a period of significant market transformation following the designation of two SSBs and the implementation of a new regulatory framework. In order to encapsulate and monitor these changes, ECSSA Ireland Ltd and RECI Ltd are required to submit Performance Management Reports on a quarterly basis to the CER.
The CER views the development of a robust Performance Reporting Framework as a key element in its strategy for the regulation of the electrical SSBs, as it facilitates transparency and accountability, while also ensuring that the SSBs remain cognisant of the economic interests of the industry and consumers.
In order to facilitate the collection of performance management data, the CER has issued a Performance Management Framework document to the SSBs, which provides a template for the SSBs when submitting their respective Performance Management Reports to the CER.
With regard to developing a set of performance metrics for safety, the CER considered the function of the SSBs and their obligations under the ‘Criteria Document’ and the ‘Terms & Conditions of Appointment’. Consequently, the CER instructed the SSBs to provide detailed metrics regarding their core activities, which include the following:
- Registrations
- Site Inspections and Audits
- Certification
- Change of Contractor
- Complaints and Disciplinary Proceedings
At present, the CER is reviewing the first initial Performance Reports submitted by the SSBs for the period Q1-Q3 2009. In the future, the CER requires that the SSBs report to the CER on a quarterly basis with respect to operational and safety performance, which will inform the CER on any future policy decisions regarding electrical safety.
Outlook
During the next three months, a key focus for the CER will be the development of a Common Performance Marking Scheme for electrical contractors registered with the SSBs. The implementation of a common Performance Marking Scheme will facilitate a consistent evaluation of RECs’ performance by the SSBs when carrying out inspections.
Additionally, having recently appointed a PR company to assist the CER with the development of a media campaign and a safety logo, the CER will work towards increasing public awareness of electrical safety over the coming months.
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Related contacts
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Electro-Technical Council of Ireland Ltd,
ETCI Offices, Unit H12,
Centrepoint Business Park,
Oak Road, Dublin 12, Ireland
Telephone: 01-4290088
Fax: 01-4290090 |
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Source: ETCI December 2009 Newsletter |
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