Industrial Installation, Changing major components on the input.

I'm seeking advice on the necessary sign-off procedures for replacing a voltage optimization unit.

The specific work involves removing an existing unit and installing a new one. All cabling will remain in place, but it will need to be re-terminated to connect to the new unit.

The voltage optimization unit is located between the main incoming supply and the low-voltage distribution board.

Is it mandatory to have the work signed off by a registered electrician from a recognized body like NICEIC or ECA, even though it's a like-for-like replacement?

All engineers doing the replacement are 18th Edition Qualified. 

Parents
  • The work is covered by CDM Regulations (regardless of whether or not it is classed as 'maintenance').

    The Client has to appoint a competent contractor to do the work ... the Contractor cannot start work unless they are satisfied the Client knows their duties under the Regulations, and has appointed, where necessary, competent persons to fulfil their duties under the Regulations.

Reply
  • The work is covered by CDM Regulations (regardless of whether or not it is classed as 'maintenance').

    The Client has to appoint a competent contractor to do the work ... the Contractor cannot start work unless they are satisfied the Client knows their duties under the Regulations, and has appointed, where necessary, competent persons to fulfil their duties under the Regulations.

Children
  • Now we can debate whether being a member of a competent persons' scheme, or holding a C&G qualification is sufficient to demonstrate competence.

  • The Client has to appoint a competent contractor to do the work

    could the client use their own in-house staff, if they have they have the appropriate abilities?

       - Andy.

  • could the client use their own in-house staff, if they have they have the appropriate abilities?

    Under CDM, they are still the 'Contractor' ... regardless of which legal entity undertakes the role. Similarly, a single organisation (or even 'individual human person') could theoretically be Client, Contractor and Designer.

  • Under CDM, they are still the 'Contractor'

    Ah, OK - thanks. A new meaning of the word "contractor" I wasn't previously aware of! I can see that's that sort of short-cut that's often used in some texts, but also see it being misinterpreted by the casual reader...

       - Andy.

  • Yes, even though it seems a little odd - many disputes are between client and contractor.

    CDM Regs 2015, R2: Interpretation

    client” means any person for whom a project is carried out;

    contractor” means any person (including a non-domestic client) who, in the course or furtherance of a business, carries out, manages or controls construction work;

    designer” means any person (including a client, contractor or other person referred to in these Regulations) who in the course or furtherance of a business—

         (a) prepares or modifies a design; or
         (b) arranges for, or instructs, any person under their control to do so,
    domestic client” means a client for whom a project is being carried out which is not in the course or furtherance of a business of that client;
    A person may be a flesh and blood person, or a legal person, e.g., a company. Nonetheless, how is competence demonstrated?