BS7909 Certifiation
Don't invalidate your liability insurance and event license!
Ensure your Temporary Power Installation is certified to BS7909
WHAT IS BS7909 CERTIFICATION?
BS 7909 certification relates to compliance with the Code of Practice for temporary electrical systems for entertainment and related purposes.
Discover BS 7909 Certification: What You Need to Know
BS 7909 certification is all about ensuring compliance with the Code of Practice for temporary electrical systems catering to entertainment and related purposes.
Temporary power and electrical supplies play pivotal roles in various events such as music festivals, outdoor concerts, TV and film sets, indoor and outdoor theatre productions, and outdoor sporting events.
These events have diverse power requirements, ranging from a few kilowatts to several megawatts.
Understanding BS 7909
In simple terms, BS 7909 is a standard that every event organiser must be familiar with when arranging temporary power for their events.
The standard mandates that the Event Manager, Owner, Promoter, or Organiser appoint a suitably qualified individual to oversee the electrical system, referred to as the SPR (Senior Person Responsible).
The standard classifies electrical distributions into two categories:
- Small and Simple Systems:
- Typically under 6kVA (equivalent to around 6kW of power), covering straightforward applications like laptop usage, event filming, or small indoor displays with lighting.
- In this scenario, the SPR need not possess electrical expertise but must ensure PAT records for equipment are checked and the power supply is verified. Wight Event Power/NDLE offers this service as well.
- Large and Complex Systems:
- Anything beyond the aforementioned category falls into this bracket, requiring a qualified SPR like Wight Event Power/NDLE.
- These systems, even if seemingly small, demand an electrically skilled individual to assess additional risks and implement appropriate protection methods.
- Expert planning, design, and testing are crucial for larger systems, services provided by Visions Group.
Upon designing and verifying the system, the SPR issues completion certificates to the client and, if requested, to the property/venue owner.
Testing Process
Before being handed over to the event owner, temporary power undergoes testing, with results documented.
Certification typically occurs when the system is fully operational, and the SPR is satisfied with its safety and efficacy. It's advisable to complete this final stage before rehearsals commence.
Keep in mind that systems require re-testing and re-certification (or amended certificates) in various scenarios such as:
- Setting up in new locations or venues
- Significant equipment additions
- Changes in power supply source (e.g., transitioning from a building/venue supply to a generator)
- Equipment damage or interference, including unforeseen environmental impacts (floods, fires, etc.)
We acknowledge the unique nature of each event and are here to accommodate your specific needs. Let's discuss how we can tailor our services to ensure a seamless experience for your event.
BS7909 FAQ
What is BS 7909 - Temporary Electrical Systems about?
BS 7909 serves as a comprehensive guide for establishing and managing safe and appropriate temporary electrical systems specifically tailored for entertainment or similar events. The 2023 revision of BS 7909 ensures it remains current and user-friendly.
Who is BS 7909 - Temporary Electrical Systems for?
BS 7909 caters to a wide range of stakeholders including producers, production companies, event organisers and managers, freelance professionals, facilities and services hire companies, equipment hire companies, equipment manufacturers, electrical consultants, electrical installation contractors, distributors, electricity suppliers, venues, local authorities, and safety personnel.
What does BS 7909 - Temporary Electrical Systems cover?
BS 7909 provides recommendations for managing, designing, setting up, and operating temporary electrical systems utilising low voltage a.c. electricity within the entertainment and related industries. It encompasses mobile and transportable units with electrical installations used in these sectors, as well as the provision of safe and suitable temporary electrical systems for events along with the associated duties and implementation.
Why should you use BS 7909 - Temporary Electrical Systems?
BS 7909 offers the most widely accepted means of demonstrating compliance with the IET Wiring Regulations during events. Additionally:
- Enhances the safety and efficiency of temporary electrical installations.
- Facilitates staying abreast of new and innovative technologies.
- Assists in developing expertise, accessing new markets, fostering trust, and managing risk effectively.
- Contributes to achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3 on good health and well-being and Goal 9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure.
What’s new about BS 7909 - Temporary Electrical Systems?
The 2023 revision of BS 7909 is a comprehensive update incorporating changes to the IET Wiring Regulations standard BS 7671:2018+A2:2022. Key changes include:
- Updates or removal of reference standards as needed.
- Revision of information and usage of RCDs in Annex E.
- Replacement of “bypass” and “disable” with “override” for better technical accuracy regarding RCD operation.
- Increased emphasis on event planning and supply provision.
- Addition of Annex K offering more background on power quality symptoms and causes.
- Removal of the facility to override RCDs in FDUs from Annex B.
- Clarification on the use of thermoplastic ‘SY’ and ‘YY’ cables.
- Introduction of new requirements for battery storage systems in a new section.
Is Wight Event Power / NDLE able to certifiy to BS7909?
Yes, all our key personnel have completed the Assured Programme in the Application of BS 7909 to Temporary Power Systems.
Please follow the links below to view the details:
by