fire alarms and 17th regs

[Jabbajaws]

Hi all,

l may have asked this question before, so if thats the case then my apologies.

It is my understanding that all circuits must now be RCD protected, under the 17th.

Now, formerly having a job as a Fire Safety Co-ordinator, l used to notice that the fire alarm panel constantly had an earth fault. I have seen this on a few systems.

My question is: If thats the case under the 17th Regs and fire alarms must be RCD protected, what if an earth fault develops, in a place such as a hotel, where people are resident overnight?

Surely this is dangerous practice to have happen, and there's no guarantee how long the back up battery is going to last, especially if its a older system. And if the battery dies, there is no fire alarm cover at all, in this instance.

Does anyone have any info on this? Or any way round this problem. Much appreciated...

 

[cagedanimal2010]

clipped direct requires no rcd protection!!!!

 

[JUD]

clipped direct requires no rcd protection!!!!

RCD protection can also be omitted if cables are mechanically protected

 

[Guest123]

The RCD protection IMO, is a last resort. If carefull consideration is given at design stage then an RCD will not be needed.

 

[Crosswire]

Surely if installation is under supervision of a ' skilled or instructed person' this also negates the need for an RCD (in a non domestic situation'

 

[cagedanimal2010]

i believe that the "skilled or instructed person" is referring to sockets outlets!?!

 

[Baal]

If the panel is showing 'earth fault' then this will be on the 24v zone, sounder or loop wiring and won't be directly rcd protected anyway?

 

[Crosswire]

i believe that the "skilled or instructed person" is referring to sockets outlets!?!

Yeah you're right. My bad

 

[Jabbajaws]

Thanks for the feedback guyz. That was most informative...

 

[Sparky Ninja]

Most often I will install the system near the db and run the supply in surface containment.

Simples!