The Electrotechnical Assessment Specification, known as the EAS, sets out the minimum requirements an enterprise must meet to be recognised by a certification or registration body as technically competent to undertake specified categories of electrotechnical work.
It is an industry specification rather than standalone legislation or a blanket qualification rule applying identically to every electrician.
EAS 2026: FIVE KEY POINTS
- Periodic inspection and testing is a distinct category of work.
- Competence involves more than holding a single qualification.
- The City & Guilds 2391-52 is an accepted periodic inspection and testing qualification.
- Four low-carbon installation categories apply from October 2026.
- Businesses should review personnel, qualifications, experience, technical publications and test equipment with their scheme provider.
PERIODIC INSPECTION AND TESTING
The EAS covers periodic inspection and testing in dwellings and locations other than dwellings.
Its competence framework applies to qualified supervisors and employed persons responsible for, and undertaking, this work under an enterprise’s certification.
The framework considers underpinning electrotechnical competence, current knowledge of BS 7671 and an accepted periodic inspection and testing qualification.
Where the relevant competence requirements are not otherwise met, the EAS also refers to at least two years’ evidence of periodic inspection and testing, a qualification listed in the relevant EAS table and continuing professional development.
Apprentices and trainees may gain experience while working under close supervision
WHERE THE CITY & GUILDS 2391-52 FITS
The City & Guilds Level 3 Award in Initial and Periodic Inspection and Testing of Electrical Installations, qualification code 2391-52, is listed as an accepted current qualification.
The City & Guilds 2391-51 is also accepted, together with other qualifications listed in the EAS Qualifications Guide.
The 2391-50 covers initial verification and does not, on its own, satisfy the separate requirement for periodic inspection and testing.
Holding the 2391-52 demonstrates the relevant qualification element, but businesses must still consider underpinning competence, current knowledge of BS 7671, practical experience and continuing professional development.
Questions about individual qualifications or evidence should be referred to the relevant certification or registration body.
LOW-CARBON WORK CATEGORIES
From October 2026, the EAS competence framework applies to:
- Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment installation
- Solar Photovoltaic systems installation
- Electrical Energy Storage Systems installation
- Micro Wind Turbine installation
Depending on the category, competence may include underpinning technical knowledge, current Wiring Regulations, initial verification and a recognised qualification covering the relevant technology.
A technology-specific qualification therefore forms part of a wider competence framework rather than establishing full competence on its own.
WHAT SHOULD BUSINESSES REVIEW?
Businesses operating under electrotechnical certification or registration schemes should review:
- Current and planned work categories
- Qualifications and experience of relevant personnel
- Continuing professional development records
- Access to current technical publications
- The suitability and continuing accuracy of test instruments
Businesses should confirm how the requirements apply to their circumstances with their own scheme provider.