RCD or not

[Rockingit]

Just as an aside, may I ask what was the reason you decided to convert the radials into RFC's? Just curious!!

 

[stuart569]

Just opinion on the requirements, I, as a matter of course always fit high integrity boards where possible
Pict

What is meant by "high integrity" board?Heard this a couple of times.Metal clad?

 

[pencilpusher]

My understanding is that it is a board with non RCD protected ways as well as protected ways. So you will normally have three neutral bars. One for each RCD and one for the main switch (non RCD side).

 

[the pict]

Thats my understanding also, I term I picked up from using Wylex stuff
Pict

 

[Deleted member 26818]

Spin, that is interesting. I am pulling my hair out having had differing views on this very subject on this forum. I have a CU in a kitchen cupboard which is attached to outside wall. I have a T&E cable running from the CU down behind the kitchen cupboard and out at the bottom of the wall which then terminates in an adaptable box where it joins with swa to carry on underground to supply my garage. I have been advised that unless I can prove the T&E is more than 50mm below the surface, I need RCD protection. This is a problem because the said garage is on a TT stsyem with an RCD main siwtch and I need to obtain descrimination between RCD's.

There is no way anyone is going to put a picture up where the kitchen cupboards are. The only chance of a problem is if someone replaces the kitchen and drills through the short run of T&E that is already there.

This is my dilemma. I can run new swa to the CU but do I really need to?

My post was in reference to the OP which refers to a Hotel, and therefore a commercial installation.
If your CU is in a kitchen cupboard, which is part of a domestic installation, then Regulations522.6.6-7will require you to provide additional protection to the T&E.
You mention having to prove that the T&E is buried at a depth greater than 50mm.
Why is this, is it an existing installation, that you are making an addition or alteration to?
What is the extent of the addition or alteration?

 

[pencilpusher]

It is a CU change so will need that RCD protection or swa all the way. Thanks. PP

 

[TIGGERTOM13]

It is not a requirment for RCD in commercial, but it is prefered to be in writing on the H+S statement that work is carried out by instructedl personel but for use of portable equipment it would be wise to have RCD protection for guests use or cleaners use. A rcd socket should be installed for outside use.

 

[davie spark]

Technically by altering the radials to rings you have introduced 'new' circuits, I don't have a regs book in front of me but is it not the case that unless the building is under the supervision of a competen/'skilled/electrician (can't remember the exact text) there needs to be RCBO protection.

 

[Deleted member 26818]

Technically by altering the radials to rings you have introduced 'new' circuits, I don't have a regs book in front of me but is it not the case that unless the building is under the supervision of a competen/'skilled/electrician (can't remember the exact text) there needs to be RCBO protection.

The requirements of BS7671, are that socket-outlets in locations containing a bath or shower, those used to supply mobile equipment outdoors and any intended for general use by ordinary persons be protected by use of a 30mA RCD.
There is an exception to the requirement for socket-outlets intended for general use by ordinary persons, in sofar that RCD protection is not required if their use is under the supervision of a skilled or instructed person.
There is also a requirement in BS7671 that cables concealed in walls be provided with RCD protection, if they are not provided with another acceptable method of additional protection.
Again there is an exception to this requirement, in sofar that the RCD protection is not required if the installation is under the supervision of a skilled or instructed person.
The Electricity At Work Regulations, Regulation 16 require that:
"No person shall be engaged in any work activity where technical knowledge or experience is necessary to prevent danger or, where appropriate, injury, unless he possesses such knowledge or experience, or is under such degree of supervision as may be appropriate having regard to the nature of the work."
Any such any person would satisfy the requirements of BS7671 to be considered skilled or instructed.