When it comes to electrical wiring, safety needs to be the priority. The cables that power our homes, offices and industrial spaces need protection. And not just from wear and tear. It’s essential to protect from moisture, heat, corrosion and accidental damage as well. 

That’s where electrical conduit systems come in.

But remember that installing conduits goes beyond practicality. Compliance is vital too. In the UK, you need to comply with two key standards to make sure your electrical system is safe, reliable and built to last. They are BS EN 61386 and BS 7671. 

Let’s break down what they mean, why they matter and how to make sure your conduit installation meets the mark.

What is BS EN 61386?

BS EN 61386 is the British and European Standard for conduit systems. It sets out how they should work, the rulebook for both metallic and non-metallic conduits. Its job is to outline clearly how they need to be designed, tested and installed. 

The standard is split into several parts that deal with different types of systems, such as:

• BS EN 61386-21 – For rigid (steel) conduit systems
• BS EN 61386-23 – For flexible (plastic and PVC) conduit systems
• BS EN 61386-24 – For buried (steel, PVC or PP) conduit systems

BS EN 61386 sets the performance standard covering how well they handle impact and resist dust and water (IP rating). It also covers how the conduit copes with temperature changes and maintaining the electrical continuity for earthing. If a conduit meets this standard, it’s safe and ready for use.  

What is BS 7671 (The Wiring Regulations)?

Published by the IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology), the BS 7671 Wiring Regulations are the backbone of electrical installation safety in the UK.

These regulations cover everything from the design of an electrical system to how it’s installed, tested and maintained. When it comes to conduit systems, BS 7671 explains:

• When conduit or ducting is essential to protect cables.
• What types of materials are suitable for certain environments.
• How to get proper earthing and bonding.
• Fire safety requirements (such as the use of fire-resistant materials in escape routes).

For example, Regulation 522.8.10 allows for unarmoured cables to be buried underground if they’re put inside a conduit that provides equal protection. That means the conduit you choose (and how you install it) directly affects whether your system is following the Wiring Regulations.

In short, BS EN 61386 tells you what the conduit must do, while BS 7671 tells you how to use it properly. Together, they make sure that your wiring system is compliant and gives you that all-important peace of mind. 

Why certified conduit matters

Making sure that conduits comply with BS EN 61386 does more than tick a box. You’re ensuring safety and reliability.

When conduit is certified, you can be sure that it’s been tested for strength, tolerance to high and low temperatures and durability under real-world conditions.  

Why is this so important? 

• Safety – Certified conduit reduces the risk of fires, electrical shocks and short circuits.
• Durability – Being certified means that it’s built to last, whether installed underground, outdoors or in high-traffic areas.
• Compliance – Using certified conduit helps your installation to meet BS 7671 and other UK regulations.
• Insurance and inspection – If your system isn’t using certified conduit, it can easily lead to failed inspections or insurance issues.

Installation tips: Earthing, fire safety and IP protection

Even if you’re using certified conduit, how it’s installed can make a huge difference. Read on for a few tips to help during installation. 

1. Earthing (Grounding)

For metal conduit systems, the conduit can actually act as a protective conductor if it’s installed correctly. That means you have to ensure electrical continuity. All joints and fittings need to be tight, conductive and resistant to any corrosion.

For non-metallic conduits like PVC or polypropylene, you’ll need a separate earth wire, as plastic does not conduct electricity.

Tip: Always use conductive couplings and locknuts for metal conduits, and check continuity with a tester after installation.

2. Fire safety

Fire safety is a major part of BS 7671. If you have conduits in escape routes or fire-critical areas, they have to be flame-retardant. They also should be made from materials that aren’t toxic when exposed to heat.

Halogen-free polypropylene is often recommended for conduits in commercial buildings or industrial sites. 

Tip: Make sure to label and route your conduit carefully to avoid blocking ventilation or escape paths.

3. Ingress protection (IP ratings)

Ingress Protection (IP) ratings tell you how well conduits keep out dust and moisture. For example, an IP65 rating means it’s completely dust-tight and protected against water jets. Ideal for using outdoors or in damp areas.

Tip: Always check the IP rating when choosing your conduit, especially for outdoor or underground projects.

Inspections and testing

Meeting British standards doesn’t stop at installation. Ongoing inspection and testing are needed to keep your system legal.

Here’s how to stay on top of it:

• Visual inspections – Check regularly for signs of wear, corrosion, cracks or loose fittings.
• Continuity testing – For metal conduit systems, make sure that earthing is consistent across all the joints.
• Environmental checks – Make sure outdoor or underground conduit are sealed, watertight and undamaged.
• Documentation – Keep a record of any test results, product certifications and all maintenance for compliance and safety audits.

Tip: Plan regular inspections into your maintenance schedule.

Staying safe and compliant 

Choosing the right conduit starts with knowing the standards that keep your installations safe and compliant. 

When you understand BS EN 61386 and BS 7671, you’re not just following rules. You’re building safer, more reliable electrical systems.

Explore the full range of conduits at GTSE to find the perfect fit for your project.