Need help with cracking those EICR codes? The technical team at NAPIT, with the help of the brand new 18th Edition Codebreakers publication, answer your latest coding queries.
MANIR HUSSAIN: Someone clearly thought that it is OK to fit an IP rated socket in a bathroom!
CODEBREAKERS: Contrary to popular misconceptions, an IP rated low voltage (230V) socket outlet is still not allowed within zone 0, 1 or 2 of a location containing a bath or shower (Section 701).
A low voltage socket outlet (230V) of any type located within Section 701 must be at least 3m horizontally, from the boundary of Zone 1, and MUST also be protected by a 30mA RCD. The socket outlet in the above scenario has the potential to allow a piece of equipment to be used within the confines of this shower cubicle and therefore is potentially dangerous (C2).
It would not be considered immediately dangerous, and therefore warrants a C1, as there are no live parts that are accessible.
TOM STATHAM: Found on a recently handed over new build installation. None of the MCCBs had been tightened to the correct torque!
CODEBREAKERS: Many will see this as not worthy of coding, as they probably tightened them up as they were checking them. As we look closer, we can see that the MCCBs are protecting lifts and other large current drawing equipment. If their terminals are not adequately torqued to manufacturers’ tolerances, there is a very real risk that thermal damage of the MCCBs could take place, which could lead to a fire.
Given the size of the installation, the client should be made aware of the findings, even if the inspector has made good the terminal torque settings. Also, if further inspection of the whole installation is not part of the agreed limitations, a code should be given requiring all devices to be checked for the correct torque tolerances, to protect against the potential for thermal damage and fire.
To find out how you can order your copy of the updated 18th Edition Codebreakers publication visit: www.napitcodebreakers.co.uk
