recommendations for no rcd protection

[alextrician]

hi all

i am currently carrying out a periodic inspection on a commercial property that is not operated by skilled or supervised person and has no rcd protection to any circuits. i was wondering what recommendations i would give to the client, whether they would need rcd protection on all circuits or to socket circuits or none as it is an existing installation.

any advice would be much appreciated

 

[telectrix]

on the PIR, code 4 for no RCD protection. you can advise fitting RCD/RCBO protection to sockets used by non-skilled persons, but as farf as the pir is concerned , it's just non compliance with current regs. code 4.

 

[DurhamSparky]

what is the earting Arrangement!! if TT thean a code 4 is out the window and replaced by code 1

if any other then code 4

are the cables surface mounted as they might even have NO code!

need a bit more info really to make a clear judgement!

 

[mart8235]

Depends on how the install is used and the type of installation. could be a No 4 or could be No 1 or 2.
you need to assess whats going on, if there's outside sockets next to a jet wash area (code1???)........ or if its a lighting circuit with concealed cables on the 5th floor (code 4?). There's a lot to be considered on site, only you can make the choice on coding and recommendations.
if its wired in earthed metal conduit then you could change some sockets to RCD sockets, or change MCB to RCBO.......
best to check with someone who can come to the job with you to guide you through.

 

[Deleted member 26818]

In order to comply with Regulation 16 of EAWR 1989, anyone using socket-outlets in the course of their duties should meet the criteria in BS7671 to be classed as skilled or instructed.
This is why BS7671 refers to commercial premises in the exception to the requirement for RCD protection.
Circuits in special locations, and socket-outlets used for mobile equipment outdoors must be RCD protected, there are no exceptions for skilled or instructed persons.

 

[alextrician]

the earthing arrangement is tns, some circuits are clipped direct to the surface, some are concealed in plastic conduit others are concealed in walls, breakers are to bs3871 so cant change for rcbo's. there are about 20 different units in the building some do have rcd protection, some have been rewired some havent its a bit of a mis match to be honest. most units are used by people who you would expect to be fairly responsible but there is a kids after school club in there. nothing is labelled and im having a lot of fun with it at the minute.
thanks for all your advice, youve given me something to think about.

 

[Deleted member 26818]

If it's a School, then you should really determine in the extent and limitations of the PIR, the expected requiremnts for RCD protection on the socket-outlets.
It may be that while BS7671 technically allows for non-RCD protected socket-outlets, the School Authorities would not. There may be even requirements from the Local Authority.