UK How do we solve the long meter tail problem?

[Snailspark]

Just seen a you tube video by Artisan, he mentions there is a 15 meter run that goes in the fabric of the building from the meter/100amp cut out to the consumer unit.
it started a debate as to whether to code it a c2 or c3. The question that I have is how would you fix/solve the problem?
the house was a relatively new build as well so how did it pass initial verification?
Discuss.....

 

[HappyHippyDad]

It's a good question. A scenario that should never occur, but it has.

@davesparks gives the correct answer, it simply needs digging out and the correct mechanical protection installed. However, the correct solution is not always possible, it would be a nice easy life if it was, although possibly a bit boring.

If the homeowner completely refuses to have the walls bashed about then I can't see any other option but to fit an upfront 30mA RCD. This could be fitted in place of the DP switch used in the switch fuse. An awful solution, but better than leaving the tails without protection.

I fit steel plates when they are hidden in walls, plus S type 100mA RCD up front in the switch fuse.

 

[davesparks]

I fit steel plates when they are hidden in walls, plus S type 100mA RCD up front in the switch fuse.

Why the RCD? Unless it's a TT system then it is not required.

 

[Ian1981]

Considering cables require additional protection by an rcd upto 30mA buried in the wall , I can’t see the reason , as installing a steel plate which had to ensure that cables cannot be penetrated is the idea , that cables can’t be damaged negating the need for an rcd . As for installation of the S type rcd , it cannot provide additional protection should the steel be penetrated, which shouldn’t be able to be penetrated anyway by nails or screws.

 

[telectrix]

Why the RCD? Unless it's a TT system then it is not required.

what about 522.6.202. buried tails unprotected do not comply with 522.6.204, so additional protectionby means of a30mA RCD must be installed.

 

[Ian1981]

what about 522.6.202. buried tails unprotected do not comply with 522.6.204, so additional protectionby means of a30mA RCD must be installed.

Think he was asking why the S type rcd in the post above
[automerge]1595769374[/automerge]

It's a good question. A scenario that should never occur, but it has.

@davesparks gives the correct answer, it simply needs digging out and the correct mechanical protection installed. However, the correct solution is not always possible, it would be a nice easy life if it was, although possibly a bit boring.

If the homeowner completely refuses to have the walls bashed about then I can't see any other option but to fit an upfront 30mA RCD. This could be fitted in place of the DP switch used in the switch fuse. An awful solution, but better than leaving the tails without protection.

I fit steel plates when they are hidden in walls, plus S type 100mA RCD up front in the switch fuse.

Out of interest, what steel plates do you fit?
As I’m not too confident in that ‘tails capping’ stuff that’s available to buy.

 

[telectrix]

misread post due to following manufacturers instructions. it says "7 days after bottling, sample the beer".

 

[davesparks]

what about 522.6.202. buried tails unprotected do not comply with 522.6.204, so additional protectionby means of a30mA RCD must be installed.

If you read the quote in my post you will see I was asking why they are installing a 100mA S type RCD when protecting the tails with heavy steel plate.

 

[telectrix]

If you read the quote in my post you will see I was asking why they are installing a 100mA S type RCD when protecting the tails with heavy steel plate.

as my last post. i misread.

 

[davesparks]

Out of interest, what steel plates do you fit?
As I’m not too confident in that ‘tails capping’ stuff that’s available to buy.

I haven't done any of that sort of work for a while but in the past always used 1/4" (~6mm) steel plates over buried tails.

That was when I was full time with a building company so we just used to get steel from the company who supplied the RSJ's etc.

 

[HappyHippyDad]

Think he was asking why the S type rcd in the post above
[automerge]1595769374[/automerge]

Out of interest, what steel plates do you fit?
As I’m not too confident in that ‘tails capping’ stuff that’s available to buy.

That's probably what it is Ian. Its advertised as mechanical protection and feels pretty robust. Certainly isnt 6mm though, more like 3mm. I tried drilling through with a masonary bit and it was not getting through.

 

[freddo]

There was a company that used to be frequently advertised that sold lengths of drill resistant plate for buried cables that met all the requirements. Can't find them now though...