I have been presented an EICR with a code 2 referencing Regulation 411.3.3, no 30mA RCD protection for socket outlets under 32amp. The 32a socket has a 100mA Time Delay RCD fitted, as it's being used to supply a local DB within a cabin. My initial thoughts were this was satisfactory and shouldn't have been coded a C2 due to the requirement for discrimination between the RCD's to avoid nuisance tripping, now I am not so sure.
There's no blanket demand for discrimination in BS 7671 - just means of achieving it when it is required. Lack of discrimination of itself won't cause nuisance tripping (although you might have both tripping when one would have been sufficient, but the same loads are disconnected either way, so little/nothing lost). There is a requirement for sockets ≤32A to have additional protection by 30mA RCD - likewise to mobile equipment rated ≤32A outdoors whether through a socket not not (and if the DB is part of the mobile equipment, that would presumably include that DB, not just its outgoing circuits). Although it depends on quite what this "cabin" is - if the kind I have in mind it might be more transportable than mobile (BS 7671's definition of mobile equipment is more like the old portable/hand held definition in that it covers things that are moved while connected to the supply). In any event if the socket could be used for other purposes, especially hand-held stuff outdoors, 30mA RCD protection really isn't optional.
It's quite normal to have 30mA RCDs in series - the regs have long demanded them both in caravans and pitch supplies.
- Andy.
Perhaps if those trotting out code 2’s were asked to fully explain the potential danger, there would be less of them issued. Blind code hugging must be a significant burden to British industry!
The 32a socket has a 100mA Time Delay RCD fitted
Does this mean that the RCD is integral to the socket?
C2 seems a bit harsh - additional protection was only required for socket-outlets not exceeding 20 A in 17th Edn.
Is there any realistic possibility that this socket could be used for any other purpose?
Why was the 32-amp socket installed and why is it being used to supply the cabin, instead of the cabin supply being hard wired?
What type of premises is it installed at and how are the premises and the cabin used?
I might be misreading it but it seems to say an RCD can be ommitted with a documented risk assessment in this sort of situation.
Gary
C2 is the guidance from Electrical Safety First's BPG4: https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/media/2149/bpg4-1.pdf
See page 16, 4th item down.
Why was the 32-amp socket installed and why is it being used to supply the cabin, instead of the cabin supply being hard wired?
What type of premises is it installed at and how are the premises and the cabin used?
Good question, but if it was designed as a mobile & Transportable unit ... a number have a BS EN IEC 60309 series appliance inlet fitted to them.
I might be misreading it but it seems to say an RCD can be ommitted with a documented risk assessment in this sort of situation.
Not according to Regulation 411.3.3, this is item (iii) usage, and the risk assessment exception applies only to (ii).
Perhaps if those trotting out code 2’s were asked to fully explain the potential danger, there would be less of them issued. Blind code hugging must be a significant burden to British industry!
Yes, although if it's a metal-framed or container-type mobile/transportable unit, I wouldn't be happy without RCD protection, given the risks of rodent damage. That said, as aligarjon pointed out, would a different selection of cable/connection type be more appropriate, particularly if the cabin is going to be there long-term ... especially considering this case: www.independent.co.uk/.../turney-sue-logan-fire-calder-vale-b2843032.html
Which is why Sparkingchip and I want to know more.
The documented risk assessment used not to apply to a dwelling, but now its application seems to be even narrower. Users would have to be BA4 (instructed) or BA5 (skilled).
(I suppose that could apply to most of us in here at home, but not if we were using a corded hedge trimmer, lawnmower, drill, etc.)
Integral to the socket yes, 100mA RCD protection on the 32a Socket. Sockets have been installed to supply a Portacabin, although it could be considered mobile it is a permanent site office for a contractor within our site. It won't be used for an other purpose.
I assumed installed with regards to a bit of flexibility of location of these porta cabins (installed before I took over the site). Contractor site office.
Yes, requires considering as to type of persons using the equipment as I interpret.
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