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EICR – CONSUMER UNIT IP PROTECTION

PG
EICR – CONSUMER UNIT IP PROTECTION
The C.U. in question is an old Wylex fuseboard that has, replacement, plug-in MCBs installed, complete with new carriers.
There is no covering lid. This was, presumably disposed of when the fuses were replaced.
The C.U is mounted near the corner of a wall such that the board can be seen end-on. The side view of the replacement MCB and carrier reveals a very narrow gap between carrier and base of the MCB such that the (live) MCB brass plug-in connections can be seen. The gap is about 15mm long and less than 1mm wide. Probably better than IP4X.
This is better than the specified IP2X minimum but could be deemed a danger because it would be unexpected rather than other applications with open electrical connections – like a lamp holder.
Forum Members comments would be appreciated


Regards
Parents
  • 0
    This arrangement has been in use since the time of Noah. It is perfectly good at keeping fingers out, but presumably does not confirm to current regs that require better IP protection. There is no immediate risk in my mind. I have installed and used such Wylex boards with no problems. But we have no control over inquisitive children and adult idiots prodding and poking.


    416.2.1 and 416.2.2.


    Edit. Add. I have this exact situation in my flat. The old bigger plug in Wylex M.C.B.s allowed no visible showing of the two fingers, as they pushed fully home. The newer smaller type Wylex M.C.B.s (ABB) do show some copper just as you say, at the base of the M.C.B. A cover (with the centre removed) will not allow the copper M.C.B. fingers to be seen or touched.


    Wylex consumer unit with cover. Cover centre is intact and has to be removed for M.C.B.s to fit through it leaving just an external "frame".

    Wylex consumer unit | eBay




    Z.
Reply
  • 0
    This arrangement has been in use since the time of Noah. It is perfectly good at keeping fingers out, but presumably does not confirm to current regs that require better IP protection. There is no immediate risk in my mind. I have installed and used such Wylex boards with no problems. But we have no control over inquisitive children and adult idiots prodding and poking.


    416.2.1 and 416.2.2.


    Edit. Add. I have this exact situation in my flat. The old bigger plug in Wylex M.C.B.s allowed no visible showing of the two fingers, as they pushed fully home. The newer smaller type Wylex M.C.B.s (ABB) do show some copper just as you say, at the base of the M.C.B. A cover (with the centre removed) will not allow the copper M.C.B. fingers to be seen or touched.


    Wylex consumer unit with cover. Cover centre is intact and has to be removed for M.C.B.s to fit through it leaving just an external "frame".

    Wylex consumer unit | eBay




    Z.
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