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CHRISTOPHER ORTHODOXOU: THE CUSTOMER WAS WONDERING WHY EVERY TIME SHE PLUGGED SOMETHING INTO THIS SOCKET IT WOULD TRIP THE RCD!
This is a failure of the initial verification of the socket-outlet where the correct sequence of inspection and testing has not been carried out.
Part of the requirements for inspection under Part 6 for initial verification Regulation 642.3 (i) requires the checking of the connection of conductors. If this had been carried out then the incorrect termination of the line conductor into the neutral terminal and vice versa would have been noticed and corrected.
The requirements for testing under Section 643 should have revealed the cross-polarity under several of the Regulations as follows:
- Regulation 643.2 Continuity of Conductors – R1 + R2 testing would have revealed the issue.
- Regulation 643.6 Polarity – this test would have shown that the line and neutral conductors were incorrectly connected at the socket-outlet.
- Regulation 643.7.1 Earth Fault Loop Impedance – this test would have highlighted that the polarity was incorrect.
Unfortunately, there are occasions when DIY enthusiasts dabble in electrical work without the knowledge or experience, instead often relying on guidance from “How to Guides”.
What would be inexcusable were if this work was carried out by a skilled electrical person as they have paid lip service to the requirement of Electricity at Work Regulations and BS 7671 requirements for electrical installations.
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