Introduction

These 25 practice questions cover theory for Paper 1. Topics are aligned with the official syllabus, including the OHS Act, Electrical Installation Regulations, Machinery Regulations, SANS 10142‑1 Compliance.

For a full overview of the exam structure, regulations, and calculations, see our Complete Installation Rules Exam Guide.

Paper 1 — Theory & Regulations

  1. Define “competent person” according to the OHS Act.
  2. What are the responsibilities of a “responsible person” under EIR?
  3. What is the purpose of the Certificate of Compliance (CoC)?
  4. List three items included in an electrical installation under SANS 10142‑1.
  5. What is the function of an isolator?
  6. Explain the difference between live work and dead work.
  7. What is the “point of control” of an installation?
  8. State the objective of the Electrical Machinery Regulations.
  9. Who may issue a CoC?
  10. Define “earthing system”.
  11. Describe the TN‑S earthing system.
  12. Describe the TT earthing system.
  13. Describe the IT earthing system.
  14. What is a distribution board (DB)?
  15. What information must be displayed on the main switch?
  16. What is the purpose of the earth continuity conductor (ECC)?
  17. Define “protective device”.
  18. What is an earth leakage unit (ELU/RCD)?
  19. Explain “fault current”.
  20. What is meant by “overcurrent”?
  21. Define “compliance” under SANS 10142‑1.
  22. Why is insulation resistance tested?
  23. State the general requirement for balancing phases in a multiphase installation.
  24. What documentation accompanies a CoC?
  25. What is the legal status of SANS 10142‑1 in South Africa?
Paper 1 focuses on OHS Act 85 of 1993; Electrical Installation & Machinery Regulations; SANS 10142 (scope, definitions, compliance, special installations, loads, conduits, IP ratings, symbols); SANS 10198 I & II; SANS 10292 (LV earthing).

Why Practice Questions Are Important for Paper 1

Many candidates fail the Installation Rules exam because they try to memorise SANS 10142 without applying the regulations to real scenarios. Practice questions help you understand how the law and standards are interpreted in examination questions. By regularly testing yourself with realistic questions, you will develop the ability to quickly recognise regulatory requirements, identify key safety principles, and apply the correct section of the Electrical Installation Regulations during the exam.

Common Installation Rules Exam Topics

  • Electrical Installation Regulations responsibilities
  • Certificate of Compliance requirements
  • Earthing systems (TN-S, TT, IT)
  • Inspection and testing procedures
  • Electrical safety under the OHS Act

Understanding these topics will significantly increase your chances of passing the Installation Rules examination on your first attempt.

Most electricians fail the Installation Rules exam on their first attempt. The difference between passing and failing is structured preparation and realistic exam practice.
Electrical Certificate of Compliance inspection checklist SANS 10142 South Africa

Start Your Installation Rules Exam Preparation Today

Passing the Installation Rules Exam in South Africa requires more than reading SANS 10142 — it requires structured preparation and realistic exam practice. Our Installation Rules Study Guide is designed specifically for South African electricians and it includes: Realistic exam-style questions, clear and practical explanations, focus on high-weight SANS 10142 sections. If you are serious about passing on your first attempt, start preparing strategically today. The exam rewards strategic preparation — not last-minute cramming.


👉 Start preparing smarter today and increase your chances of passing on your first try.

Start Your Installation Rules Exam Preparation Today

What You Will Learn

You will learn how to:
  • Interpret and apply the OHS Act and Electrical Installation Regulations
  • Calculate Voltage Drop, PSCC (AC & DC), Touch Voltage correctly
  • Perform inspection, testing, verification, and complete CoC tasks
  • Master SANS 10142‑1 installation requirements
  • Work under exam time pressure