Outside Oil Boiler

[Newpark7]

Happy Easter All

Received a call from a Plumber who has just installed a new outside boiler for a customer, he has reported getting an electric shock from the boiler case!

Had a quick look on Saturday in order to quote, found the following: -

1) Boiler outside being supplied by 3C&E flat cable dangling on the ground through the wall to CU protected by 16A MCB (No RCD protection)

2) No bonding to any boiler pipes or oil pipe, bonding to Cold Main water pipe only.

My questions are:

1) What tests should I carry out to confirm he did receive a shock?

2) What do you suggest to do regarding cable (SWA etc)

3) As the boiler is outside and the oil line does not go into the house will it require bonding?

4) What about RCD protection?

5) Would it be wise to install some kind of Isolator outside at the boiler for maintenance purposes?

Any help greatly appreciated as always.

Mark

 

[chris gray]

my opinion:
1, do you need to prove he got a shock?
IR + Zs + visual test
2, the cable does want mechanically protecting or upgrading
3, cpc of feed will suffice
4, special location so yes
5, electrical isolation should be within arms reach

 

[Deleted member 9648]

As above,R1R2 test as well. The oil line will not require bonding but metallic pipes coming from the boiler into the building should be treated as incoming services and main bonded at the point of entry.
I'ts not a special location under bs 7671 just because it's outside, and if a TN system and surface wiring no rcd protection is required. I would though in this case to cover yourself, as a shock has been reported and something may be missed or not show up on tests and inpections.
Check in particular continuity to the boiler case....there may be an earth link not fitted,also possibility of a pinched wire when the case fitted.

 

[Guest123]

I would first of all check that your plumber friend has connected that 3 core up correctly as he obviously connected it to fire up his new boiler.


Are there no controls inside the house for this boiler.....stat, timeclock etc???