New circuits wired into a plastic consumer unit

[TJC1]

Had to install a ring main & cooker circuit for a new kitchen we have been doing.

The consumer unit is hager split load but is plastic. There is no room in the cupboard to add another board and the customers dont want to pay for a board change.

I guess i could just note on the form saying customers did not want to change to metal?

 

[chrisdungan]

In the UK, it’s the weird guys who put a rod in when they have an MEN supply.

ok but you haven't answered the question.
What is wrong and what is illegal with a plastic distribution board
oh and yes our regs require a metal rod into the ground for an MEN point because our supply system is different to the UK

 

[Deleted member 26818]

Our Regulations changed in 2015, though I think the metal CU part didn’t start until 2016.
MEN = PME.

 

[Baddegg]

MEN? So if MEN is pme why do you rod as well?

 

[Deleted member 26818]

ANZ rules require an electrode at the consumer intake.
It was proposed here for the 18th.

 

[Baddegg]

Thanks spin

 

[Deleted member 26818]

This was in the draft for the 18th:
542.1.201 The main earthing terminal shall be connected with Earth by one of the methods described in Regulations 542.1.2.1 to 3, as appropriate to the type of system of which the installation is to form a part and in compliance with Regulations 542.1.3.1 and 542.1.3.2.
Additionally, there shall be an earth electrode, supplementing any earthing facility provided by the distributor, in accordance with one of the requirements of Regulation 542.2.3, to prevent the appearance of a dangerous touch voltage in the event of the loss of the main connection to Earth.

 

[Baddegg]

Sounds like something we can expect here in the future then.....

 

[telectrix]

good excuse for amd.1. another £85

 

[Squid]

I'm touched

By Michael, Jimmy, Gary or Rolf?

 

[telectrix]

Fred Talbot.

 

[tudore]

When plastic DBs came our they were touted as safer (no exposed metal) and more durable (don't rust). I found this acceptable then and still do. Here's a metal one that was in use till last Friday, not a good advert for metal boxes!

I have a plastic one in my home and won't be changing it unless I have to. This was just below the ceiling in what was a hairdressers: obviously a very damp environment.

 

[Norah Nabino]

When plastic DBs came our they were touted as safer (no exposed metal) and more durable (don't rust). I found this acceptable then and still do. Here's a metal one that was in use till last Friday, not a good advert for metal boxes!View attachment 48256 I have a plastic one in my home and won't be changing it unless I have to. This was just below the ceiling in what was a hairdressers: obviously a very damp environment.

So you guys on here want to tell us that BS7671 Amendment 3:2015 is obsolete.
It is a responsibility of an Electrician to follow safety guidance as in the regs.and advise clients as appropriate.

 

[Norah Nabino]

Had to install a ring main & cooker circuit for a new kitchen we have been doing.

The consumer unit is hager split load but is plastic. There is no room in the cupboard to add another board and the customers dont want to pay for a board change.

I guess i could just note on the form saying customers did not want to change to metal?

 

[Norah Nabino]

Had to install a ring main & cooker circuit for a new kitchen we have been doing.

The consumer unit is hager split load but is plastic. There is no room in the cupboard to add another board and the customers dont want to pay for a board change.

I guess i could just note on the form saying customers did not want to change to metal?

Which form are you implying?
That plastic board does not comply with the current regs.i hope you have advised them.
I wouldn't do that job unless if they agree to the change of the board.
Are you signing off any certs taking full responsibility just in case something happens?
You have installed 2 circuits a rfc and cooker radial.
You need EIC and everything has to comply with the current regs.
You cannot sign of the EIC with a plastic CU.

 

[Deleted member 26818]

Only responsible for the work carried out.