Hi, just wanted to know the depth to dig the trench for an armoured cable to an outside shed. I've read that the reg are a bit opaque but considering the mrs found the existing cable about one inch down (a standard orange cable, looks like its off a flymo cable - it is live as the shed lights and sockets work) I want to make sure the new one is at a safe depth. I was planning to dig down 450mm, then lay 150mm of sand on top, and ice it off with some of that warning tape. Then when I get the electrician in to do other bits we are planning, he can connect up and do the dangerous stuff.
Discuss Trench Depth - Clarification in the UK Electrical Forum area at ElectriciansForums.net
18inch about ish.this might helphttps://www.cablejoints.co.uk/upload/E.ON___Electricity_Cable_Ducts,_Guidance_Notes.pdf
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The regulations (BS7671) state that it must be dug at a sufficient depth. The IET electricians guide to the building regs suggests at least 500mm which is what I have always adhered to. I would have that sand as perhaps 75mm either side of the cable so that it's sitting in a bed of sand, rather than all on top although it doesn't really matter.
I know what would happen to the spade if I gave it to my Mrs! 
Obviously I would have a perfect trench!!
Yeah 450 to 500 deep with something soft to prevent sharp stones damaging the sheath then I usually backfill 150ish then tape so there is a bit of a safety gap before you hit the cable. Then fill it up!
Obviously I would have a perfect trench!!
Yeah 450 to 500 deep with something soft to prevent sharp stones damaging the sheath then I usually backfill 150ish then tape so there is a bit of a safety gap before you hit the cable. Then fill it up!
Excuse the quality of the pic , but this may guide you to a correct method of installation compared to the previous one.
![[ElectriciansForums.net] Trench Depth - Clarification](https://www.electriciansforums.net/attachments/2019-09-01-13-46-54-jpg.51830/ "[ElectriciansForums.net] Trench Depth - Clarification")
Thanks for that @Spoon, I need a new phone to be honest , the lens has suffered with lime dust ect. No flash either.
I cheat. I have the regs scanned to PDF. Makes it really easy to search.
Make sure she is not in her slippers when she digging .lol.Cheers guys. Definitely get the Mrs to dig it
If i answered that you might get me shoot cause somebody will clip me wings .lol.
Steel toe capped, of course
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