The new law states that electric fences must now be certified with an electric fence system Certificate of Compliance (EFC).

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Non-compliant electric fencing is now illegal in South Africa and you are at risk if someone gets hurt because your electric fence installation is faulty, or non-compliant

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A certificate is also required when a change and or addition is made to an existing installation  - such as restringing an electric fence, or any additions to an electric fence.

A certificate is not required when doing general maintenance to your electric fence like repairing a broken wire or repairing the energizer. Replaciement of a lightning arrestor, broken bobbins and other repairs of a minor issues also do not require a certificate.

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Should a fence be found to be non-compliant, it will either have to be brought up to standard as set out by the Department of Labour and SAEFIA (South African Electrified Fencing Installers Association) or the owner will need to remove it. A dummy electric fence (non-working) is also not allowed and you could be forced to remove it.

 

Electricians cannot issue this electric fence certification, unless the electrician is also qualified in terms of the new electric fence laws and has been registered with the Department of Labour.

 

As of 1 December 2012 all new, upgraded and repaired electric fence installations in South Africa must be compliant

 

Since 1 October 2013, all electric fence installers must be registered after first passing an exam before they are allowed to conduct inspections, Installations and certification.