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As we close out 2025, it’s essential to reflect on the state of electrical safety across the UK. With industry-wide reforms, emerging technologies, and the ongoing commitment from businesses and regulators, this year has brought meaningful progress – alongside areas where risks remain.
Key Safety Data & Incident Trends
Work-related electrical fatalities and injuries:
There were 7 fatalities and 150 non-fatal injuries from “contact with electricity or electrical discharge” reported under RIDDOR in 2024/25.
While historical trends show fluctuations – from 10 fatalities in 2020/21 to 5 in 2023/24 – the 2024/25 figure underscores continued risk.
Major prosecutions:
2025 brought several high-profile prosecutions:
A severe arc flash at a wind farm in Scotland (June 2020) resulted in an £80,000 fine.
National Grid was fined £3.28 million over a 33 kV shock incident in Wales (Dec 2020).
These figures highlight a persistent challenge: electrical hazards – especially shocks and arc flashes – continue to pose serious harm and financial risks.
Regulatory Developments in 2025
Enhanced electrical safety regulations
Since January, all new installations must include RCDs; EICRs are now required every three years in rental properties (reduced from five).
BS 7671 Wiring Regs (18th Edition, Amendment 3) came into effect, requiring more widespread adoption of AFDDs, stricter surge protection, and smart safety measures.
Private and social rented sector standards
New regulations extend mandatory EICR compliance to social housing starting Nov 2025, with full roll-out by mid-2026.
These regulatory updates aim to strengthen prevention, modernise installations, and close compliance gaps.
Root Causes: Shock & Arc Flash
HSE data and case reviews highlight two primary hazards:
Electric shocks account for 57% of fatalities and 53% of serious injuries in major incidents.
Arc flash events, while less often fatal, cause 37% of serious injuries and remain a complex technical threat.
These findings emphasize the need for targeted training, isolations, and protective technologies (like AFDDs).
What These Trends Mean for Practitioners
- Regular and robust inspections
Adhere to updated EICR timelines, and include checks for RCDs, AFDDs, surge protections, and earthing systems.
- Technical upgrades
Invest in AFDDs and surge protection, particularly in high-risk installations like switchgear, wind farms, EV chargers, and public buildings.
- Competent workforce & processes
Ensure electrical tasks are performed by competent professionals and backed by safe systems of work (isolation, testing, PPE).
- Focus on high-hazard environments
Construction, agriculture, and renewable energy sectors need bespoke safety plans – especially around overhead lines, live panels, and arc flash risks.
- Proactive risk management
Use incident data to drive discussions across stakeholder groups, update risk registers, and build awareness—especially among non‑electrical staff.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Expanded contractor oversight
Regulation 31 The Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations (ESQCR) now increases transparency of safety-related electrical incidents affecting public safety.
Smart and sustainable safety
Expect greater adoption of digital monitoring, in-situ diagnostics, IoT monitoring, and AI-enabled risk systems embedded into electrical infrastructure.
Training and behavioural change
Upskill electricians and site staff on isolation practices, understanding arc flash, and applying safe systems of work consistently.
Final Reflections
2025 has been a transformative year for electrical safety in the UK. Regulatory reforms, data-driven insights, and enforcement action are creating conditions for safer installations and lower incident rates. But challenges remain: arc flash, electrical shocks, and compliance gaps still demand priority.
For electrical professionals, employers, landlords, and site managers, the invitation is clear: embrace inspection frameworks, invest in technical controls, and prioritise training and culture. By doing so, we can close the gap between policy and practice – turning safety frameworks into everyday behaviours that protect lives and livelihoods.
Call to Action:
If you would like to improve your electrical safety performance or have particular concerns about an electrical topic, contact us to arrange a free consultation with one of our Principal Consultants.
Call us on 0800 652 1124, email us at info@elecsafety.co.uk or contact us through our website at https://elecsafety.co.uk/about/contact/.
