Table of Contents
Book at a Glance
| Detail | Snapshot |
|---|---|
| Title | A Practical Guide To The Wiring Regulations |
| Edition | 3rd (aligns with BS 7671:2001) |
| Author | Geoffrey Stokes, CEng, FIET |
| Publisher | Wiley-Blackwell |
| Publication Date | 23 September 2002 |
| Length | 576 pages |
| ISBN | 978-0632058983 |
| Target Audience | Practising electricians, design engineers, apprentices, inspectors, tutors |
| Reading Level | Upper-intermediate technical (NVQ 3 / Level 3 and above) |
| Core Topics | Design calculations, protective devices, earthing, inspection & testing, special locations |
Why A Practical Guide To The Wiring Regulations Matters
Even two decades after its release, the 3rd Edition of Geoffrey Stokes’ reference still bridges the gap between dense statutory language and day-to-day installation work. It unpacks the BS 7671 framework into step-by-step design examples, worked calculations, and illustrated explanations that resonate with hands-on professionals. In an industry where compliance mistakes can cost livelihoods—or lives—the book’s pragmatic tone, real-world case studies, and clear diagrams remain invaluable learning aids.
Chapter Highlights
1. Introduction to BS 7671 Framework
Stokes opens with an accessible walkthrough of the structure and intent behind BS 7671:2001. By mapping each Part and Chapter to practical jobsite scenarios, he demystifies jargon from the start.
2. Fundamental Principles & Definitions
This chapter distils the core safety objectives—protection against shock, thermal effects, overcurrent, and voltage disturbances—then shows how every regulation traces back to these fundamentals.
3. Assessment of General Characteristics
Using domestic, commercial, and industrial case studies, Stokes demonstrates how to evaluate supply characteristics, environmental conditions, and load demands before sizing conductors.
4. Protection for Safety
Here the author explains disconnection times, circuit dis-crimination, and the coordination of fuses, MCBs, RCDs, and RCBOs. Worked examples include TT earthing systems in rural installs.
5–6. Selection & Erection of Equipment
These two weighty chapters cover cable types, routing methods, enclosures, and IP ratings—supported by tables that cross-reference BS EN standards.
7. Special Installations & Locations
From bathrooms to agricultural buildings, Stokes clarifies zones, supplementary bonding, and extra-low-voltage solutions, referencing real inspection reports for context.
8. Inspection, Testing & Certification
Step-by-step test sequences—continuity, insulation resistance, earth-fault-loop impedance—are paired with sample certificates to show what “good paperwork” looks like.
9. Design Worked Examples
The crown jewel: full calculations for ring-final circuits, three-phase distribution, and motor starters. Readers can mirror the logic to check their own designs.
Strengths at a Glance
- Worked calculations – Bridges the gap between theory and on-site practice.
- Plain-English explanations – Converts regulatory jargon into conversational guidance.
- Comprehensive coverage – Treats design, installation, and certification with equal depth.
- Illustrative diagrams – Black-and-white schematics clarify cable runs and protection layouts.
- Cross-referencing – Each rule cites its BS 7671 clause so you can double-check sources fast.
Limitations
- Dated to BS 7671:2001 – Newer amendments (2018 + A2:2022) aren’t covered; users must reconcile updates manually.
- Black-and-white visuals – No colour coding, which can hinder quick distinction of conductors in diagrams.
- Print-heavy layout – At 576 pages, it isn’t the most portable site companion.
How It Compares
| Feature | A Practical Guide To The Wiring Regulations 3e | Student’s Guide to the IET Wiring Regulations 3e | IET On-Site Guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Depth | Full design calculations & commentary | Condensed exam-oriented summaries | Quick-reference tables |
| Audience | Practitioners & designers | Trainees & apprentices | Site electricians |
| Edition Base | BS 7671:2001 (16th Ed) | BS 7671:2018+A2 | BS 7671:2018+A2 |
| Portability | Large paperback | Medium | Pocket-sized ring-bound |
While the On-Site Guide excels in quick look-ups, Stokes’ text remains the go-to for design reasoning and calculation walkthroughs.
FAQ
1. Is A Practical Guide To The Wiring Regulations still relevant after the 18th Edition?
Yes—its calculation methods and safety principles are timeless. Just cross-check clause numbers against BS 7671:2018 +A2 to capture any amended limits.
2. Who wrote A Practical Guide To The Wiring Regulations 3rd Edition?
The book was authored by Geoffrey Stokes, CEng, a Fellow of the IET and experienced electrical engineer.
3. Does the 3rd Edition include inspection and testing forms?
Absolutely—Chapter 8 provides sample Electrical Installation Certificates and Periodic Inspection Reports you can adapt for current templates.
4. Can beginners use this book?
Ambitious apprentices can learn plenty, but the depth of maths means it best suits Level 3 learners and above.
5. Where can I buy the 3rd Edition?
Copies are available via Wiley-Blackwell, Amazon, and second-hand textbook sites. Always confirm you’re receiving the complete 2002 printing.
