City and Guilds 2391-10 and 2391-20

The City and Guilds 2391-101 electrical qualification is generally aimed at experienced personnel working in the UK and covers the inspection, testing and certification of electrical installations. The aim is to ensure that prospective qualifying managers and operatives have a thorough understanding of the requirements of BS7671 and are able to comply with them. The main focus is Wiring Regulations for Electrical Installations.

Electrical Qualifications for 2391-301 (old 2391-101): Requirements and Recommended Coursework

To complete the 2391 Level 3 certificate in inspection and testing, you’ll need to take part 1, the written assessment unit 301 (previously 101) as well as 2391-302 (previously 2391-102), which is the practical assessment. There are no pre-entry requirements to take this exam, but it’s very helpful to first complete the 17th Edition IEE Wiring Regulations (2382) qualification.

In the course of gaining the 2391 qualification, candidates will learn the correct terminology, naming documentation, test values and calculations relating to the inspection and testing process.

The 2391-301 (old 2391-101) electrical qualifications cover testing equipment, order of tests, continuity of protective conductors, insulation resistance tests, polarity and earth electrode tests, earth fault loop impedance tests, RCD tests, rarely used tests & IP ratings, recording of results, using guidance note 3 and exam preparation.

Passing the 2391-301 (old 2391-101) written exam requires a strong understanding of Guidance Note 3 published by the IEE.

Electrical Qualifications for 2391-301 (old 2391-101): Test Components

The examination for the 2391-301 (old 2391-101) electrical qualification will require time management skills and careful reading of each question. It is a closed-book exam consisting of a 2 ½ hour, 26 question written exam. The written paper is in two parts: short question and long question.

The difficulty of this exam is well known; it has a pass rate of only around 45%. To prepare yourself for the 2391-301, there is a new course now being offered by City and Guilds that many seeking this electrical qualification find to be much easier. The 2392 Fundamental Inspection, Testing and Initial Verification course is an introduction to electrical testing and inspection. It will be offered both by City and Guilds and EAL.

Exam dates for for the 2391 qualification are usually on or around the following dates: February 7th, March 13th, June 5th, July 17th and August 14th.