Consumer Unit Blanking Plates

Qbit: 
 

It is conceivable that a loose live conductor could come into contact with a metal blanking plate.  Some of the twist-on  types do not make electrical contact with the (earthed / powder-coated) case in which case they thus constitute exposed conductive parts.  This means that they should be individually earthed. But there is no means provided to do do this.  So the question is: does the use of metal CU blanking plates contravene the Wiring Regulations if fitted but not earthed?

The Niglon consumer units that I use have metal blanks to fill the gap when there are spare ways. They fit very tightly and sometimes have to be bashed into place. The cables are normally well behind the front cover and metal blanks. But, theoretically, a live cable could make the front cover live if it is damaged or gets crushed between the cover and consumer unit body. At that point the circuit R.C.D. or M.C.B should automatically disconnect the damaged cable and render the situation safe.

Z.

Qbit: 
 

It is conceivable that a loose live conductor could come into contact with a metal blanking plate.  Some of the twist-on  types do not make electrical contact with the (earthed / powder-coated) case in which case they thus constitute exposed conductive parts.  This means that they should be individually earthed. But there is no means provided to do do this.  So the question is: does the use of metal CU blanking plates contravene the Wiring Regulations if fitted but not earthed?

The Niglon consumer units that I use have metal blanks to fill the gap when there are spare ways. They fit very tightly and sometimes have to be bashed into place. The cables are normally well behind the front cover and metal blanks. But, theoretically, a live cable could make the front cover live if it is damaged or gets crushed between the cover and consumer unit body. At that point the circuit R.C.D. or M.C.B should automatically disconnect the damaged cable and render the situation safe.

Z.