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Does a 50m extension lead need to be fitted with an RCD?

Christian Ambler

I have completed C&G 2377-77 EET / PAT TESTING COURSE and am now seeking some clarification on the code of practice.

In the CoP in section 10.10 gives recommended maximum lengths for extension leads, but these can be exceeded if an RCD is fitted.

My question is, if I have a 50m extension to test, should I be failing it if it is not fitted with an RCD?

If it should have one fitted, why are retailers allowed to sell them without?

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    I would say that yes a 50m extension lead should be fitted with an RCD, in any ordinary circumstances.

    It might be just acceptable to omit the RCD if the cable is 1.5mm and if the fuse is only 3 amps, but in practice the chance of a larger fuse being fitted latter is significant.

    Might be acceptable under the control of a skilled person who ensures that it is only used from fixed sockets protected by an RCD 

    Might be acceptable under skilled control if only class 2 appliances are to be used.

    Might be acceptable from a small portable generator that cant blow a 13 amp fuse.

    But for unsupervised use by ordinary persons an RCD is in my view required.

    Most retailers call them "cable tidys" and not extension leads.

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  • 0

    I would say that yes a 50m extension lead should be fitted with an RCD, in any ordinary circumstances.

    It might be just acceptable to omit the RCD if the cable is 1.5mm and if the fuse is only 3 amps, but in practice the chance of a larger fuse being fitted latter is significant.

    Might be acceptable under the control of a skilled person who ensures that it is only used from fixed sockets protected by an RCD 

    Might be acceptable under skilled control if only class 2 appliances are to be used.

    Might be acceptable from a small portable generator that cant blow a 13 amp fuse.

    But for unsupervised use by ordinary persons an RCD is in my view required.

    Most retailers call them "cable tidys" and not extension leads.

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