Shower pull switchs which need replacing

[KevinS]

Had my NICEIC assessment today, all went well.
We got onto the subject of functional switching and they agreed that a switch for the shower is not necessary. My thoughts are, in future I am thinking about crimping the cables instead of putting in a new pull switch.
Just wondering what your thoughts are on this.
Ps my main reason for this is:- I see lots of these switches burnt out where the tenants switch the shower off (still under load) and by crimping thru it is one less point for a problem to occur.
Just thought I could use the red wago's which will take 6mm and are rated at 41A
Any thoughts?

 

[telectrix]

make sure you fit them in an enclosure.

 

[KevinS]

Yeah plan was to do it inside the shower pattres then fit a single blank (possibly with a bead of silicone)
i realise that I can only do this if the shower has its own on/off button, but I think most of them do anyway

 

[ruston]

Just a cautionary note here ; Redring for one say that the shower MUST be connected through a double pole switch with a seperation............ and they recommend a pull switch.

 

[MarkieSparkie]

One major problem with this idea if implemented, the method of isolating and switching OFF for mechanical maintenance is remote form the shower unit and BS7671:2008+A1:2011 537.2.1.5 & 537.3.1.2 apply. If in the future the Plumber working on the shower unit is unintentional electrocuted, because I had assumed an MCB or main switch was a suitable means of switching OFF from mechanical maintenance. I would not like to try arguing in a Court of Law that all Plumbers should carry full lockout kits because I had not provided a simple means of locking-off via a removable operating handle, key or the use of a padlock.

 

[Strima]

And as Ruston has pointed out the manufacturers instructions may call for it. If you want to get rid of a pull switch then what about placing an isolator out of sight, in loft/cupboard etc, with a label on the CU stating where it is?

 

[Octopus]

If you rely on the MCB can you argue you have double pole isolation?

 

[Strima]

If you rely on the MCB can you argue you have double pole isolation?

Do you?

 

[Octopus]

Do you?

I always fit an isolation switch!

 

[ruston]

I always fit an isolation switch!

So do I , just rough as the badgers if you do'nt ;whatever the get out.

 

[KevinS]

Agreed with all your comments lads, I see no reason that the double pole switch must be fitted. Wether the manufacturers are stating this to cover their own backs - I don't know.
But yes I do agree the comments regarding plumbers and their lock off kits.
Looks like I will be continuing to fit them, but cutting the cord short so they struggle to turn them on and off.
well it was a good idea................ Briefly!

 

[KevinS]

Just one last point.
I also always fit them, but the number that I come across which have melted the cables, arced the contacts, etc is unbelievable. I see more of these burnt, melted than any other type of fitting. What also doesn't help is the cables are usually in the ceiling and they get covered in insulation.
it was just a case of when the NICEIC confirmed my thoughts that you don't have to have one fitted - it got my brain thinking.
I still think there must be a better way.
I know you could put a contacter in at the db, but this is expensive

 

[ruston]

To be fair a lot of it is down to bad installation and rubbish accessories , sign of the times.

 

[Snapester]

Im with ruston, most burnt out switches are those that have been installed badly with over exposed terminals and of poor quality.

 

[Octopus]

Especially ones using 10mm cables!