Code cables in walls with metal partitions

[Ian1981]

Recent thread brought up C3 cables in wall of less than 50mm from surface without rcd or additional mechanical protection on a eicr.
I would also C3 this however how do people feel about this if the walls were metal partions on the studs and not wood?
Would you then be more swayed to a C2 incase penetration/damage on a cable also touched against the metal work making the wall 'live'?
Thoughts please
Cheers

 

[telectrix]

if metal studding, a C2 for me.

 

[Sparky Ninja]

My take on it is..

If cables can be subjected to vibration, movement then it would lean towards a C2.

If insulation is holding it in position or its not not to be disturbed then it can lean to a C3.

It's one of those observations where a better understanding on the use of the installation may sway the decision.

 

[Taylortwocities]

For an EICR, unless you have X-Ray eyes, it's unlikely that you would be able to inspect the method of support for cables inside the partition. You could only code it as C3.
Maybe with a qualifying note as to the limitations of the inspection.

 

[Wilko]

IIRC one "famous case" was an unprotected cable in a metal stud wall. A plasterer's nail, electrical testing that didn't find it, and a later pipe leak resulted in tragedy. I'd C2 it.

 

[westward10]

IIRC one "famous case" was an unprotected cable in a metal stud wall. A plasterer's nail, electrical testing that didn't find it, and a later pipe leak resulted in tragedy. I'd C2 it.

I really don't buy this scenario because how would any amount of testing have indicated a nail penetration through a live conductor in that wall which was isolated from earth.This was an unfortunate set of circumstances. The jury were given the "evidence" and decided that adequate testing was not carried and blame was laid.

 

[Wilko]

Agree with you completely.
IMHO, I think that's one construction fault that can't be found with testing and it has caused a tragedy. Hence my personal choice of a C2 for OP question.

 

[Deleted member 26818]

What type of cable?
If it's SWA for instance, then no code.

 

[Ian1981]

What type of cable?
If it's SWA for instance, then no code.

It was more regarding standard twin and earth