RCD Regs

[carl9254]

A few questions.

Obviously if you are running new cable from the cu then its got to be rcd protected, but do you have to make sure a circuit you work on is rcd protected, even if its just minor work etc??

Thanks.

 

[malcolmsanford]

If your installing new BS 1363 sockets, off of an existing circuit as per reg 411.3.3 then those sockets you install need rcd protecting.

If your running the cables again off of an existing circuit to regualtions 522.6.5 through to 526.6.8 then the cable you install needs to be RCD protected.

The new amendment to the regs is trying to include a part about not having to fit an RCD on a MEIWC, as they will leave the decesion on that up to the designer, but as of now yes even on a MEIWC you still need to provide RCD protection as above.

Of course if the new work is done in a special location ie a room containing either a bath or a shower, then even in the new amendment you still have to fit an RCD to all circuits in them as per reg 701.411.3.3 on a MEIWC.

 

[SirKit Breaker]

Depends on installation method etc, there is a table of exemptions. In the BS7671 amendment coming out soon there is some relaxation regarding RCD protection.

At the moment pretty much anything domestic needs to be RCD protected. This only applies to the part of the circuit you alter or add.
Personally, i have fitted sockets onto non RCD protected circuits where i felt it was OK to do so, like behind the TV etc. If i didn't then someone else would and its money out of my pocket. The someone else would probably not install it properly, and definitely not test and certify it either. I always state on the cert, socket outlet has no RCD protection as required by Building regulations etc etc.
However i do use my judgement, and if it was a special location, or could be used for outside equipment, then its got to be RCD all the time. The key for me is that i must leave the installation at least as safe as i found it. Putting an extra socket in behind the telly, or on the bedroom wall is not making the installation any more dangerous, its probably safer as it will have done away with adaptors and extension leads.

Cheers........Howard

 

[malcolmsanford]

Sorry Howard I think I have to disagree with you there mate. The new amendment does propose the designer deciding wether to fit an RCD under a MEIWC, but it is still only a recommendation it may not be included, and if it is then under the current regs what your doing contravenes them, and ergo against the law as per Part P.

 

[SirKit Breaker]

Sorry Howard I think I have to disagree with you there mate. The new amendment does propose the designer deciding wether to fit an RCD under a MEIWC, but it is still only a recommendation it may not be included, and if it is then under the current regs what your doing contravenes them, and ergo against the law as per Part P.

You are correct, but as with all rules and regulations you have to apply common sense. At least i know them, and have the ability to Install, test and ensure what i do is safe even if it is not compliant. I know that what i do will not cause injury to anyone, which is more than DIY charlie can do, they dont even use earth sleeve so what is the chance of test and certificate? The type of job i am on about is such as an extra socket next to an exisiting which has no chance of being used for outside purposes, we are'nt running cables here there and everywhere, that is a different ball game altogether. Just because something is done to an earlier version of BS7671 doesn't make it dangerous.

Cheers........Howard

 

[Deleted member 26818]

Not all socket-outlets require RCD protection.
Only those intended for general use by ordinary persons, or for use with mobile equipment outdoors actually require RCD protection.
As such if you were to install a socket-outlet intended for a specific item of equipment such as a TV, or DVD player, RCD protection can be omitted.