Date   : Sun, 13 Sep 2009 13:08:05 +0100
From   : rs423@... (Mick Champion)
Subject: Leccy @ Acorn World '09

Ian Tonks wrote:
> That's not necessarily true if the pipework is still bonded to earth (I'm 
no sparky, but I believe this hasn't been acceptable for new installs for 
some time). Contact with live may well be enough to give you a packet before
the fuse blows (assuming the fuse does blow) even if only half the current
is going via the bathtub you're sat in.
>   

No, the fuse wouldn't blow, nor would an MCB. An RCD hopefully would 
trip although don't take my word on that.



> I suppose there's a risk you might get a jolt from neutral too if that's
not bonded at the consumer unit.
>   
Here in London (though I expect there will be exceptions), our Earth 
wires are bonded at the substation and we get our Earth feed come in 
with the supply. It is not bonded at the consumer unit like some rural 
areas. I wouldn't know if you could get a jolt from the neutral in your 
case, but I'd me more fearful that there would be no return should your 
piping become live. That's unless you have an Earthing rod.


Mick