The AM2 Practical Assessment, also known as Unit 399, is a crucial component of the NVQ Level 3 Electrical qualification. It is a final requirement for candidates to complete in order to obtain their qualification and be eligible to apply for the JIB ECS Gold Card.

Completion of the AM2 assessment is mandatory for apprentices, adult trainees, and upskilling workers who aim to achieve the industry-recognized qualified status that the NVQ provides.

The assessment is overseen and maintained by the independent organization NET (National Electrotechnical Training Organisation). It is available at over 40 assessment centers across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

The AM2 assessment consists of five sections, spread over a total of 16.5 hours (2.5 days). During this time, candidates perform a series of timed tasks in specially equipped booths that simulate typical electrical installation wiring systems. The tasks involve installation, inspection and testing, and fault-finding. It is essential that the work carried out aligns with the current British Standard (BS7671: 2015), as well as comply with relevant Health & Safety legislation and industry best practices.

The primary objective of the AM2 assessment is to guarantee that all qualifying installation electricians meet a single standard agreed upon by employers throughout the industry. It serves as a reliable and trusted independent assessment of safe and high-quality standards within the electrical installation industry. Most employers recognize the AM2 assessment as proof of competence for electricians and consider it essential when evaluating the skills and capabilities of potential employees.

In summary, the AM2 Practical Assessment (Unit 399) is a vital assessment that candidates must complete to achieve their NVQ Level 3 Electrical qualification and be eligible for the JIB ECS Gold Card. It ensures a consistent standard of competence among installation electricians and is highly regarded by employers within the electrical installation industry.

The AM2E and AM2S assessments are variations of the AM2 Practical Assessment, with slight differences in the installation section tasks.

The AM2E assessment, which is taken alongside the NVQ 2346-03 qualification, includes two additional tasks under the installation section. Candidates are required to install a piece of steel conduit with a bend and a set measurement, as well as install a piece of PVC conduit between two fixed points with a bend over a pre-fixed obstacle. These installations are followed by wiring circuits through the conduit. An additional 1.5 hours is provided for completing these tasks, extending the total assessment time to 10 hours compared to the 8.5-hour duration of the AM2.

On the other hand, the AM2S assessment is specifically designed for apprentices undertaking the NVQ 5357 qualification. It is also referred to as the ‘End Point Assessment’ (EPA). The AM2S assessment follows the same format as the AM2, but is tailored to meet the requirements of the apprenticeship program. Apprentices are evaluated on their

Unit 399, also known as the AM2 Practical Assessment, focuses on demonstrating “Electrotechnical occupational competence” in alignment with approved industry practices and current regulations. The assessment criteria for this unit are designed to meet the competence requirements of the electrotechnical industry for qualified operatives in installation or maintenance roles.

To ensure compliance and safety, the AM2 assessment takes into account various statutory and non-statutory regulations, including:

1. The Electricity at Work Regulations (1989): These regulations outline the legal requirements for electrical systems and equipment in the workplace.
2. BS7671 Wiring Regulations: Candidates are expected to demonstrate their knowledge and adherence to the current edition of this British Standard, which covers requirements for electrical installations.
3. Health & Safety Act (1974): This legislation outlines general health and safety responsibilities and requirements within the workplace.
4. Building Regulations (2000): Candidates must show compliance with the relevant requirements of these regulations, which cover electrical installations in buildings.
5. Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations: These regulations require employers to manage health and safety risks and provide appropriate training and information to employees.
6. Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations: Candidates should be aware of the reporting requirements for workplace accidents, injuries, and dangerous occurrences.
7. Provision & Use of Work Equipment Regulations: These regulations provide requirements for the selection, use, maintenance.