External cabling and the issues with EV.

This is one we did recently. Didn’t do the research and it turns out the fence belongs to others, it is scheduled for removal to permit development. The tray along the fence will need to be removed and alternative support provided.

Graham, as I understand it CDM is applicable to the domestic side. Slightly different arrangements but if the only work being undertaken at the property is the installation of the EVSE then the contractor installing the EVSE needs to take on the role of principal contractor. 

I have no issue with that install and it looks great, it differs though in respects to being a metal fence rather than wooden.

That was interesting. Skipton heh, not very far from where I live. Often visit. I know around here, in my childhood days,  it was tradition for every week that one day (Monday I think) it was allowed that washing was hung out in the back street. It was often stated that "it was the law" say local bye laws etc etc. But whether this was just folklore or custom and practice I have no idea. There is a town near me where a couple of streets do it everyday and it`s been happening for years somehow

lyledunn said:

Graham, as I understand it CDM is applicable to the domestic side. Slightly different arrangements but if the only work being undertaken at the property is the installation of the EVSE then the contractor installing the EVSE needs to take on the role of principal contractor. 

It is true that the CDM Regulations apply for domestic work, and that the Principal Contractor (or sole Contractor if there is only one) takes on the roles of both Principal Contractor and Client.

The Designer also has duties even if the project is not notifiable.

However, what does change between Domestic and a 'place of work' is some of the Designer's Duties under Regulation 9:

9.—(1) A designer must not commence work in relation to a project unless satisfied that the client is aware of the duties owed by the client under these Regulations.

(2) When preparing or modifying a design the designer must take into account the general principles of prevention and any pre-construction information to eliminate, so far as is reasonably practicable, foreseeable risks to the health or safety of any person—

(a)carrying out or liable to be affected by construction work;

(b)maintaining or cleaning a structure; or

(c)using a structure designed as a workplace.

(3) If it is not possible to eliminate these risks, the designer must, so far as is reasonably practicable—

(a)take steps to reduce or, if that is not possible, control the risks through the subsequent design process;

(b)provide information about those risks to the principal designer; and

(c)ensure appropriate information is included in the health and safety file.

(4) A designer must take all reasonable steps to provide, with the design, sufficient information about the design, construction or maintenance of the structure, to adequately assist the client, other designers and contractors to comply with their duties under these Regulations.

So, the reason I worded my reply regarding trip hazards was the item I highlighted above.

Risks to the public are covered by H&S@W etc. Act 1974 for workplaces, and people affected by an undertaking, but this would also be covered by the Designer's Duties in a place of work.

However, I understand that, in private dwellings, other legislation and general laws of tort would apply if someone were hurt as a result of tripping over an EV charging lead. It doesn't mean the installation contractor is completely off the hook, just that it's not as clear cut as a workplace.

Occupiers liability act 

is the one, 1957 originally, amended 1984. Note that it does not impose any duties in relation to a highway.

but

"(5)Any duty owed by virtue of this section in respect of a risk may, in an appropriate case, be discharged by taking such steps as are reasonable in all the circumstances of the case to give warning of the danger concerned or to discourage persons from incurring the risk."

So a 'beware of the bull" sign may be just about enough in a domestic setting.
Mike.

Could I ask a question here, if for example we were looking to get a change to the regulations or a new cable route or even a fully new type of  cable containment system what would the process for this be? How would one approach such an ask? Would it be through the IET or the British Standards team etc? gkenyon  is this something you have ever been involved in? From your responses you have an excellent grasp of regulations and standards. 

To suggest a change to a British Standard, all you need to do is write to the Secretary or Committee Manager, with the proposed change, along with the technical reasoning behind it.

However, a little knowledge of the approach a standard takes to something is very important.

For example (tongue-in-cheek), simply saying  "Please permit the use of Skyhook Ducting" wouldn't get very far, because BS 7671 requires Wiring Systems suitable for the installation conditions (relevant external influences) that meet appropriate standards, and are installed taking into account the scope of that wiring systems standard, and of manufacturer's instructions. So in that case, if you want "Skyhook Ducting" the approach is to get that ducting recognised by the relevant product standards for ducting and containment - and BS 7671 may not be the appropriate place to ask for that change.