Date   : Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:13:00 +0100
From   : rs423@... (Mick Champion)
Subject: Leccy @ Acorn World '09

Phil Blundell wrote:
> On Thu, 2009-09-17 at 11:24 +0100, Mick Champion wrote:
>   
>> I suspect the characteristics of each class of breaker is set down in the 
>> regs?
>>     
>
> Not explicitly.  The characteristics of MCBs are specified by IEC 60898,
> and I think the regs defer to that standard (in much the same way as
> they refer to BS1362 or BS3036 for the detailed specification of fuses).
>   
IEC 60898? Part 1 or 2? :-)  No need to answer that. It's a minefield!



>   
>>> Modern BS546 sockets are indeed equipped with shutters, and in fact the
>>> Regulations require all socket outlets (irrespective of pin shape) in a
>>> domestic installation to be shuttered.
>>>       
>>    
>> So would all previously installed round sockets fail to pass a safety 
>> inspection should they be of the "shutter free" variety?
>>     
>
> They'd certainly be noted as "not conformant with current regulations",
> but this doesn't necessarily mean that you would be obliged to
> immediately rip them out.  Whether they would be labelled as actually
> unsafe and requiring immediate replacement would be a somewhat
> subjective decision by the inspector.
>   
I see.


>   
>> 0,6 Mtrs is very close and could be easily reached from a bath. I'm 
>> surprised at this.
>>     
>
> I think the 0.6m spacing is intended more to prevent the accessory
> itself from getting wet than for preventing simultaneous contact.
I'm not sure this reg achieves the aim, but better than nothing.




>   There
> is no minimum spacing from a sink or basin, so it has always been
> possible to place accessories where they could be touched with wet
> hands.  Plus, the fact that there is no blanket prohibition on
> accessories in this area doesn't mean that it is always a good idea to
> put them there: you still need to apply common sense and comply with the
> other requirements laid down in the regs.
>   
Never assume that sense is common. ;-)  Not anymore anyway.



> As far as the shock risk goes, it's probably mitigated to some extent by
> RCD protection, which is now mandatory for all bathroom circuits
> including lighting.
>   
When was lighting added? Another thing I didn't know! Cheers.  Does this 
apply to anywhere with water such as a kitchen?


Mick.