Non standard accessories

[Andy78]

A customer has asked me to buy and fit one of these reconditioned vintage pull switches.
Crabtree Brown Bakelite Ceiling Light Switch 2 Way Fully Refurbished for re-use | eBay

I have initially refused as, where an accessory does not conform to a recognised product standard, I must revert to the general rules of the wiring regulations.

Referencing 416.2.4
I have said that having a removable cover that does not require a tool or key, and the internal live parts not being covered to IP2X therefore makes it not suitable.

The seller has argued that it is absolutely fine and that there are specific heights that make it ok as does the fact that it would need to be accessed by a ladder, and the regulations apply differently to switches as they do to ceiling accessories.

I'm pretty sure that's a right load of cobblers but would appreciate forum user's takes on this.

 

[Marvo]

We have a similar rule. I don't know the UK regs but where I am if it needs a ladder or step ladder to access it this counts as a 'tool'

 

[Octopus]

I would fit it and make a note on my invoice stating the issues with the product which had been discussed with the client...

 

[davesparks]

I would ask the seller to cite the regulation which makes it ok,

 

[Andy78]

We have a similar rule. I don't know the UK regs but where I am if it needs a ladder or step ladder to access it this counts as a 'tool'

To me that smacks of a bending of a regulation so far from it's intention it may as well be ignored.

 

[Andy78]

I would ask the seller to cite the regulation which makes it ok,

Just for a laugh you mean ?

 

[Andy78]

I would fit it and make a note on my invoice stating the issues with the product which had been discussed with the client...

Hmmm, I usually try and avoid that where it's an issue that's not compliant and the issue leans towards the "more dangerous" rather than "less convenient or compliant"

 

[Octopus]

Hmmm, I usually try and avoid that where it's an issue that's not compliant and the issue leans towards the "more dangerous" rather than "less convenient or compliant"

I know what you mean but it is a ceiling pull cord!

Strikes me the customer has more money than sense.

 

[Andy78]

I know what you mean but it is a ceiling pull cord!

Strikes me the customer has more money than sense.

They certainly aren't short of the disposable stuff for sure. Hmm maybe you're right. I'm probably making an issue where there shouldn't be one, I tend to do that sometimes.

 

[Octopus]

They certainly aren't short of the disposable stuff for sure. Hmm maybe you're right. I'm probably making an issue where there shouldn't be one, I tend to do that sometimes.

I think most of us are naturally cautious BUT this is pull cord, so a large dose of common sense maybe!

 

[Buckfast]

I would fit pull cord as Murdoch says and if concerned make a note on paperwork. Is this pull cord more dangerous than a standard BC pendant drop ?.

 

[Andy78]

No more dangerous than a BC lampholder, just less compliant thanks to the regs.

 

[gnselectricals]

As above I'd make a note on the cert/invoice stating client and/or seller are responsible and take a lot of their cash off them.


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[7029 dave]

I am pretty sure they still make the twist off cover today, what is the difference.?

 

[Marvo]

^^ Good point.

I'd be concerned if it was a normal light switch but I still don't see a problem with stepladders fulfilling the 'accessible with a tool' requirement for a ceiling mounted pull switch.