Knowledge Risk

The main knowledge areas page within the web resource states that the largest knowledge sub structure is Electrical Installation, whilst the knowledge sub structure with the highest average knowledge risk is Electrical Hazards. The smallest knowledge sub structure is Electricity supply. Electrical Hazards also has the highest individual node risk, closely followed by the joint second highest risk knowledge nodes of 'relevant domestic life' and 'establish fault cause'.

The graph of risks for each knowledge node from the map creates a risk profile which is shown here. A similar diagram is available on the risk page of the web resource. This profile shows that the opinion of experts is that the risks associated with this knowledge area are generally quite low with a few knowledge areas showing higher risk which should be considered in more detail.

The highest risk areas are identified in a table and shown on the risk page from the web resource. Risks seem to concentrate within the general knowledge areas associated with how people live in homes and the conditions and causes of faults.

One useful point to note is that the study experience profile for the entire knowledge area seems to show that most of the knowledge is acquired mainly through study rather than through experience.

One implication of this is that it could be expected that an improvement in electrical safety in the home could be achieved by providing better and more education. A major component of this better education could be provided at the senior school stage of learning.

The highest average risk table indicates that 'maintenance activity' is also associated with knowledge risk with respect to safety.

Although they are just outside the top 10% of highest risk items, 'danger to people' and 'earthing' also show significant knowledge risks. The book notes however that the importance of the knowledge of earthing will be affected slightly by requirements within new regulations to incorporate RCDs.