Under floor sockets and code

[Toonlad]

Looking at a job today, but im of oppinion to code it c2. your views on this please as im about to write it up soon.

Scenario.

open floor space for computers,no floor boxs but 100mm hole to drop a plug lead through the floor into the ceiling void below. Below is accessed with small steps and pushing the ceiling tile over.

Standing back from this a second i thought not much wrong, (yer Right lol) then you start with the what ifs. I was initially going to go C3, but then decided i would like it to be C2.

My reasoning, is its not easily accessible for isolation (steps/ceiling tile etc) but also is exact location not known as there are several sockets on the ring. So going from upsatairs to underneath and orientating yourself is not practical. As tiles have no markers on them.

Is there a regulation for accessibility for sockets ??
What codes would you use ??

your veiws guys...... Discuss.

Regards
Steve

 

[markc123]

Although it is an office situation (nothing going to be moved regularly) you can make an argument for 553.1.7...

 

[john999uk]

I may well be misunderstanding what the situation is but it almost seems like a loft in reverse. i.e. need to move ceiling panel and have a ladder to access. If so would you code loft sockets as C2?

 

[KAS1]

I think it would be safer to have a small extension lead from below through the hole in the floor then plug into that for the computers at least you would be able to isolate close to the equipment in an emergency by removing plug from extension socket lol

 

[Guest55]

no problem
no code
no way

ceiling projectors in schools & offices usually plugged in to ceiling socket above tiles , would you code 2 that ? no they're designed like that.
what electrical dangers to persons and property does it present ? none.
;-)

 

[KAS1]

Above tiles in the same room not a different room though ...........

 

[Guest55]

Above tiles in the same room not a different room though ...........

so what ?
what reg is there to prevent you plugging something in a different room ?

 

[KAS1]

Not just a different room a different floor bit naughty IMO

 

[Plonker 3]

Above tiles in the same room not a different room though ...........

what about dedicated circuits for things like fridges where the socket is inaccessible behind it and the only way to isolate it is at the DB?

 

[somersetsparks]

I'd go with biff, no issues present as far as an I&T is concerned, not even worth an observation

 

[monkeyelectric]

I can't see that it warrants a code

 

[dan86]

I don't see any problem here. guessing you have your answer Toonlad

 

[Guest55]

good job OP asked before writting up report , you were about to fail entire installation on the basis of a hidden socket.

 

[Toonlad]

Thanks for the differnt angle on it and interpretation with example,

Cheers, will now not code it. My thinking was incorrect.

Edit seen replys after post lol.

not one socket but about 20 under the floor. Just seemed unusual to thats all, not really expecting it. Most sockets above ceiling are switched locally eithr by a spur or a double pole switch in dado trunking and alikes.

 

[Guest55]

Thanks for the differnt angle on it and interpretation with example,

Cheers, will now not code it. My thinking was incorrect.

i like a guy who can take the hit on the chin ;-)

 

[KAS1]

Yeah second thoughts not worth a mention on the EICR just have a word and advise they install a few more sockets in the office where the computers are that'll save the spread of a fire through the 100mm hole in the floor from the room below or maybe they could fire seal the 100mm hole having said that their flex is not part of the fixed wiring so don't bother mentioning it, they may however be breaking building regs with regards to fire sealing lol

 

[Toonlad]

Ive been in this game long enough now,to know a couple of vital things. Ask if you dont know, and admit when you get it wrong. Treat people like you would like to be treat yourself.

Its all been emotional, saved some ink this evening cheer

 

[Engineer54]

I'd be more concerned about how many computer (PCs etc) outlets they are connecting to a single circuit, especially if they are RCD protected!! And how they are connecting the CPC's at the DB!!... lol!!!