Identification marks on cables

[Craig R]

Hi Guys.

I've not been working as an electrician for long and i notice people marking cables during a 1st fix with their snips for easy identification.
The thing is i dont know all of these marks.
Could someone please tell me where i can find a list of the marks used.

Many thanks

 

[Sav]

Hi Craig,
There is no list as far as I know, as these marks mean different things to sparks.
For example, I mark my cables with 2 snips to identify a load or switch line. Some mark them to show a feed .

I now use a permanent marker and simply write "load" or "switch" on the cable.
Its easier , as someone may cut the cable or not understand what you mean.
Hope this helps mate,
Sav

 

[johnboy6083]

Everybody marks cables differently, as above. Just agree on the marks with everybody involved in the wiring of the circuit. I either write on the cable or write on tape.

 

[Craig R]

Thanks for the reply Sav.

I've been using a marker pen myself. It makes things so much easier.
I really thought there was a standard marking system. And i have been looking everywhere for a list. LOL

Thanks mate,

Craig

 

[Sintra]

I only really nick singles and would write on PVC PVC.

No nicks = feed
1 nick = switch or load
2 nicks = strappers
3 nicks = emergency feed

Works for me.

 

[Amp David]

I use marker pen too. Cant trust myself to remember what a different number of nicks means when i come to second fix.

Just try both to see what suit you.

 

[Mr Mark Sparks]

i nick a cross on my feed in /out x
one nick on my switch feed/wire /
two nicks on sw&n to other lights on same switch //

 

[Dunc]

It's all down to personal preference. I use a line to indicate a switch wire, a X and a line to indicate a switch wire with neutral. If i've fed the switch and have multiple switched neutrals at the switch i decide which way round i'm having the switch and then put a X and 1 line for the first switch (starting from left hand side) then a X and 2 lines for the second switch, a X and 3 lines for the third and so on and so forth. I usually mark 3 core strappers with a certain number of lines at each end so when you come to second fix both ends of the cable will be easily identifiable.

 

[sparks_114]

For me: No nick incoming feed and outgoing, 1 nick switchlive, 2 nicks for loops operated on the same switchlive.

 

[Electricalserv]

Just write on them with a pen...These markings can easily be sabotaged by other tradesman. I stopped useing markings when I was on site with a gang on numbskulls from a plastering firm....Thought it was funny to switch loads and switch cable markings....Needless to say they swopped them all...Absolute nightmare. If I don't recognise the writing I know someone has been f/ing about!