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MICK BENNETT: THIS ROLLER SHUTTER DOOR HAS RECENTLY BEEN INSTALLED AT A COMPANY WE DO WORK FOR. FOR ALL OF THE OTHER DOORS, WE INSTALLED RCDS BY THE DB, BUT THIS DOOR – WHICH WE DIDN’T INSTALL – HAS ZERO PROTECTION ON IT, EVEN THOUGH THE REGS SAY ANYTHING SINGLE OR 3 PHASE UP TO 32 A NEEDS RCD PROTECTION. I KNOW THIS SITE WELL, AND IT’S GUARANTEED SOMEONE WILL UNPLUG THE DOOR AND PLUG SOMETHING ELSE IN…
When we consider the installation of socket-outlets we have to look at Regulation 411.3.3 which lays out the additional requirements for socket-outlets and mobile equipment for use outdoors.
Previously under BS 7671:2018 there was an exception to carry out a risk assessment for anything other than a dwelling, but since BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 the criteria for the risk assessment has altered.
BS 7671 requires RCD protection for socket-outlets not exceeding 32 A locations liable to be used by children, ordinary or disabled persons, other locations or for use outdoors.
The risk assessment is only applicable for other locations, but as this is a business premises and those working are not considered to be electrically skilled or instructed persons, therefore the risk assessment exception would not apply.
In the case of carrying out periodic inspection and testing on these premises the absence of RCD protection for a 32 A socket-outlet single or three-phase in a position where it can be used outdoors, as it is in a location at a roller shutter door, would result in a non-compliance that may give rise to danger.
Therefore, the classification code would be a C2, Potentially dangerous, urgent remedial action required due to the lack of additional protection for children, ordinary or disabled persons. If the M socket-outlet could only be used indoors then it would be a C3 improvement recommended.
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