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Introduction to Electrical Infractions

Safety in electrical installations is a top priority, both for users and for the professionals responsible for design, installation, and maintenance. Adhering to the safety standards set by the Belgian Electrical Regulations is crucial to protect people, property, and equipment from serious risks, such as electric shocks, fires, and costly failures. However, electrical infractions can occur at various stages: during installation, modifications, or maintenance. Even so-called "minor" infractions can have severe consequences for safety and cost.

1. Guide Objectives​

This guide aims to:

  • Raise awareness of the most common infractions in electrical installations,
  • Educate about the associated risks and the regulations,
  • Provide solutions for achieving compliance.

We will cover eleven common electrical infractions, each with significant implications for safety and compliance. Here are the infractions discussed in this guide, with a link to each page for more details:

  1. Missing or Non-Compliant Electrical Schematics: The importance of having up-to-date schematics to ensure a safe installation.
  2. Insulation Resistance: Preventing current leaks and minimizing electricity losses with adequate insulation.
  3. Non-Compliant or Missing Grounding: Understanding exemptions for installations before 1981 and the risks of insufficient grounding.
  4. Non-Compliant Electrical Panels: The dangers of panels without proper protection.
  5. Circuits Without 30mA Differential Protection: New requirements and enhanced protection in wet areas.
  6. Non-Functional Differential Breakers: The need for regular testing of protective devices.
  7. Missing Equipotential Bonding: Preventing potential differences to avoid the risk of electric shocks.
  8. Mixed Circuits with Different Cable Sizes: The dangers of mixing cables of different sizes.
  9. Missing Grounding on Outlets: Rules and exceptions for installations before 1981.
  10. Installations Not Done According to Best Practices: Non-compliant practices and associated risks.
  11. Non-Compliance with Protection Ratings: Risks and solutions for inadequate protection ratings.

Each page provides a detailed analysis of the infraction, associated risks, detection methods, solutions, and estimated costs for compliance.

💡 Visual Tip

For better understanding, we will use colored boxes to display practical tips, warnings, and technical information.

2. Why Is Electrical Compliance Crucial?​

Electrical compliance, as defined by the regulations, ensures:

  • User safety by preventing electric shocks and fires,
  • Protection of property from damage caused by defective equipment,
  • Reliability of the installation to avoid service interruptions and costly repairs.
⚠️ Warning

Unresolved electrical infractions may result in penalties during compliance inspections. In cases of non-compliance, repairs may be required to ensure the safety of all occupants.

3. How to Detect and Correct Infractions​

Detection Methods​

  • Visual Inspection: Some infractions, like improperly protected cables, can be identified visually.
  • Technical Testing: Tools such as a megohmmeter for insulation resistance testing or a socket tester for grounding checks can detect infractions not visible to the naked eye.
  • Professional Inspections: Hiring a qualified electrician is essential for a comprehensive and compliant evaluation.

Achieving Compliance​

To ensure compliance, it is recommended to:

  1. Consult a certified electrician for a thorough inspection.
  2. Follow the regulatory recommendations for each type of infraction.
  3. Use high-quality, compliant materials in accordance with the standards.

4. Community Contributions and Photos​

We encourage the Bativolt community to contribute to our documentation. If you have photos, case examples, or suggestions for additional infractions to document, please reach out.

📸 Visual Contribution

If you have photos of tests or compliance procedures, feel free to share them with the community. Send your contributions to docs@bativolt.com to help illustrate concepts and enhance the educational experience.

5. Contact Us to Add Infractions​

We are open to adding new pages to cover infractions not listed here. If you identify a specific infraction that is not addressed, please contact us via docs.bativolt.com. We will be glad to include solutions and advice for any additional infraction to support the community.

Disclaimer:
The contents of this site, docs.bativolt.com, are provided by Bativolt, a licensed electrical company. Intended for educational purposes, they are based on our interpretation and experience with the Belgian Electrical Regulations. Bativolt cannot be held responsible for any misuse or misinterpretation of the regulations or our documentation.

Copyright © 2025 Bativolt. All rights reserved.
Reproduction of the content on this site, even partially, is prohibited without prior authorization.

By following this guide, we hope that every reader, whether a professional or a homeowner, will gain a better understanding of safety standards and ensure that their installations are both compliant and secure.