No bathroom RCD

[yellowvanman]

Some numpty has put in a ceiling fan with a pull cord above a bath - ceiling is getting very damp and apparently water keeps dripping out, I guess due to condensation in the duct.

Customer (tenant) wants me to put in an in-line fan, and as it doesn't have a fan isolator switch, add an appropriate switch.

Old Wylex board, TNCS.

My thinking is what I've been asked to do doesn't infringe current regs. Fan is outside the bathroom, my only query is if I put in a pull isolator switch for the fan, is that required to be RCD protected? If so, can put a switch outside the bathroom just below the ceiling above the door. In which case no concealed wiring and not in a special location.

Thoughts? I would prefer to put in a pull switch! Have also suggested the tenant tells the landlord that CU upgrading would be a good idea.

 

[andyb]

I think that's a building regs requirement.

 

[joehat]

Echoing davesparks, where can I find this particular requirement stated?

Not sure which book but I know 100%

Basically it's common sense some of the regs. Eg if you have no window you can't see without a light so you need an isolator to keep lights on

 

[Midwest]

Also at per Reg, if it has a window (for light) is doesn't require an isolator for the fan!!!!

Reg 132.15.202; Every fixed electric motor shall be provided with an efficient means of switching off, readily accessible, easily operated and so placed as to prevent danger.

 

[joehat]

I will look later

 

[Andy78]

Reg 132.15.202; Every fixed electric motor shall be provided with an efficient means of switching off, readily accessible, easily operated and so placed as to prevent danger.

Which part of that reg requires a local fan isolator ?

 

[HandySparks]

Not sure which book but I know 100%

That's OK then. :lol:

Basically it's common sense some of the regs. Eg if you have no window you can't see without a light so you need an isolator to keep lights on

By that logic, it would be impermissible to install an in-line fan in a loft unless there were also a loft light installed so that you can see to maintain it. :rolleyes4:

 

[joehat]

That's OK then. :lol:



By that logic, it would be impermissible to install an in-line fan in a loft unless there were also a loft light installed so that you can see to maintain it. :rolleyes4:

There's exceptions to everything really, so you would still be an isolator. And a touch, but you can't do everything the same way, like a tt system and a tncs requirements are different as to zs

 

[Deleted member 26818]

Which part of that reg requires a local fan isolator ?

Think it's the fact that the fan uses an electric motor to operate?

 

[Midwest]

Which part of that reg requires a local fan isolator ?

Reg537.3.2; devices for switching off for mechanical devices (is an electric fan a mechanical device?). Reg 537.3.2.1, 'notes' gives examples for switching off for mechanical maintenance; multipole switch, circuit breaker, CPS, control switch operated contactor & plug & socket.

 

[Midwest]

And there is the scenario of isolating the fan at night, so one can go for a silent pee. Not sure that's in the regs though!

 

[sparksburnout]

Reg 132.15.202; Every fixed electric motor shall be provided with an efficient means of switching off, readily accessible, easily operated and so placed as to prevent danger.

Thats for a bloody great lathe or a conveyor, not a piddling bathroom fan.

 

[Andy78]

Think it's the fact that the fan uses an electric motor to operate?

Lol, really ? It was the "local" part of my phrase I was meant to emphasise. Sorry for any confusion.

 

[Midwest]

Thats for a bloody great lathe or a conveyor, not a piddling bathroom fan.

Appears you've forgotten the very first reg in BS7671?

If not properly isolated, a piddling bathroom fan is still a potential hazard.

 

[joehat]

 

[joehat]