What testing for fitting RCDs in a CU?

[Piratepete]

Hi Guys
Just been to a late 90s build house. 10 circuits in a Hager 14 way box, no RCDs, one standard ouside socket. Customer would lik RCDs to be fitted.

1. If I fit RCDs in the box I assume I only have to test the RCDs but if I replace the box I have to fully test the complete installation?:yesnod:

2. What was the last date that there was no requirement for RCDs on outside sockets or a socket that could be used outside?

Cheers

 

[kingeri]

You need to do some tests before even thinking about fitting RCDs!

 

[Mr Hehound]

If you're not at least testing N-E leakage and looking for borrowed neutrals before fitting anything you're setting yourself up for a potential right pain in the backside when the RCD keeps tripping.

 

[Mr Hehound]

Oh yeah - think regarding the regs, RCDs became standard for outlets that might supply portable equipment used outdoors was during the 15th edition and then for most other things (with some exceptions like sockets used by a trained operative, surface run cables etc) in the 16th Edition

 

[markc123]

When you say standard socket? Does that mean just a normal white one you'd find in saucy sue's bedroom? Even without the RCD's ... it needs to be in a waterproof enclosure.

 

[Dizzy_Maskell]

If you are asking this question should you really be carrying out the work,

Why do so many people come here asking such basic questions if you don't know what you are doing why are you taking the job on?

 

[markc123]

If you are asking this question should you really be carrying out the work,

Why do so many people come here asking such basic questions if you don't know what you are doing why are you taking the job on?

Without being disrepectful to the OP, i ask my self the same question. I would expect apprentices to know the answer to this to be honest.

 

[Piratepete]

Ok. So I set myself up for a roasting here, by being flippant. I'm aware that I'll have to do a general IR check and sort out any circuits that fail and check for borrowed neutrals. I should've said.
I was really looking for confirmation or not that if you're only upgrading a CU by adding RCDs there is no requirement to do individual circuit continuity and Zs tests.
Cheers!

 

[Deleted member 72666]

I don't know why so many so called electricians try to justify getting out of testing circuits, not only is it essential but in my opinion the best part of the job!

 

[telectrix]

first test is with a 2 lb. hammer. if that fits into the CU, then a RCD will fit also. :90:

 

[markc123]

2 lb ? Tel, im disappointed i thought you'd be apart of the 4 Ib gang.

 

[telectrix]

the 4lb. is reserved for the persuasion of late payers.

 

[Phoenix]

Now, I know I'm only a DI, but why THE F*CK would I not test? Surely in the '90's RCD's were required, so why none here? I'd be testing that CU to hell & back to find out why it hasn't got 'em. It's all very well standing in the dock & saying "I only test what I install", but is that morally right? Is that how professionals work? Really?

 

[Octopus]

I'd be interested to hear how the OP expects to add "rcds"

After the last couple of days I've had I could do with a laugh

 

[GMES]

It does seem to be the latest thing, people trying to test the bare minimum can never get my head round that. I always remember talking to a sparks when part p 1st reared it's head, he was complaining about having to buy a mft and testing circuits, my reply was wtf have you been doing up to now. it is the most important aspect of our trade and should be done without even thinking about it.