I can only think of 433.1 - "Every circuit should be designed so that small overload of long duration is unlikely to occur" - which given the characteristics of a fuse or MCB sort of rules it out to me, as it would only limit (well, monitor and disconnect, rather than limit in the conventional sense) if there was an overload that persisted for a significant time.

  - Andy.

I would sort of agree with Andy, that it's no longer directly included, because of the way overcurrent is now defined in BS 7671.

Overcurrent. A current exceeding the rated value. For conductors the rated value is the current-carrying capacity.

If you know an overcurrent (in its guise as an overload current, rather than a fault current) is going to occur in normal use, than you are exceeding the rated value of current for the protective device (I_n usually), which is against a 'fundamental principle' requirement of BS 7671 (133.2, 133.2.2) and in a workplace also possibly a breach of EAWR and PUWER.

Ah, do I assume, GK,  that you are aware of such a regulation having existed? I understand the requirement is superfluous, but I would love to know in what edition of the wiring regulations it was made. 

Surely the OCPD In most socket outlet circuits is in practice used to limit the current. Nothing prevents the user from using excessive numbers of high loading appliances and tripping the OCPD.

In practice the limit on load, is "whatever we can get away with without tripping the breaker too often"

Surely the OCPD In most socket outlet circuits is in practice used to limit the current.

I'd say, not entirely. The circuit should be sized to suit the anticipated load - e.g. based on floor are and use of the premises, which tends to provide some de-facto limits - e.g. most people wouldn't exceed a 7.4kW load in 100m² home for very long - the place would get too warm and the cost of the electricity would be prohibitive.

   - Andy.