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Filling out an EIC

Ben22

Just trying to get a general consensus , now I'm sure we have all seen an EIC completed in multiple ways, I'm trying to ascertain the best approach when completed the form, with multiple sub-boards in line from the origin, 

Eg , origin - main feeder board - switch room - sub DB 

How do most approach the filling of the the certificate , assuming that supply is always the supply regardless, but then how far back, I'm trying to make an accurate guide which could be passed onto say for apprentices who can then start getting their head around the filling of forms 

Any ideas welcome, do most use model forms or self created ? 

  • Ben22 said:
    assuming that supply is always the supply regardless

    Therein lies the biggest issue, there could be several sources of supply from the DNO network, PV, EESS and a backup generator, each with differing earthing and protective device requirements.

  • This is a topic that often causes confusion, particularly for apprentices completing EICs for the first time.

    My approach has always been that the certificate should clearly represent the actual installation and allow someone unfamiliar with the site to understand the distribution hierarchy. The supply characteristics relate to the origin of the installation, so these remain the same regardless of how many sub-main boards are fed downstream.

    Where you have a configuration such as:

    Origin → Main LV Board → Switchroom Distribution Board → Final Sub-DB

    I would typically record the characteristics at the origin in the supply section and then identify the board being certified within the schedule details. If the certificate relates to a new sub-main and DB installation, I would include the protective device and conductor details for the upstream circuit feeding that board, as these form part of the circuit being certified.

    The key thing for me is consistency. I've seen certificates completed in several different ways, all technically acceptable, but the best certificates are the ones that clearly show:

    • Where the supply originates.
    • Which board is being certified.
    • What upstream protective device provides fault protection.
    • The extent and limitations of the work.

    For apprentices, I think it helps to explain that they should always be able to trace the path back to the origin and understand which parts of the system fall within the scope of the certificate. If they can draw the single-line diagram correctly, completing the EIC becomes much easier.

    Personally, I favour the model forms in BS 7671 rather than bespoke certificates, as they promote consistency and are what trainees will encounter most often in practice.

    Interested to hear whether others certify each distribution board separately or prefer to treat multiple boards and sub-mains as a single installation certificate where the scope of works permits.

  • in reply to Terry osifo

    What about appending a bit of a sketch. We do this for every periodic inspection that has multiple boards. 

  • in reply to lyledunn
    lyledunn said:
    What about appending a bit of a sketch.

    Presumably, for a significant installation, the designer will have provided sufficient information for the constructor to install as intended, so there should be diagrams available for an EIC.

    Certainly, 514.9 requires that the information be provided. I suppose that the buck stops with the last person involved, i.e. the inspector.

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