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Bonding of incoming services

Johno12345

Hello all,

I have carried out a fire risk assessment and noticed that, although there is no gas meter or installation, the metallic gas service entering the building and continuing for approximately 800mm is not bonded, although there is an earth bond coiled up next to it. 

I'm in two minds whether to recommend it be connected, or if this would introduce further potential hazards. 

It can be touched, particularly while turning electricity supplies on and off, but not likely during the general occupation of the building. 

Any thoughts?

  • 0

    Well, as it is, there is a potential hazard, in that there may be a potential earth difference between the internal installation, and the incoming gas pipe. If it was boxed in (and properly vented) it would not be a potential hazard to those around it, as it is now out of reach, but I would still be inclined to connect the earth bond, as I cant readily see what other potential hazards connecting it will bring.

  • 0

    Gas pipework can be a tricky one - the normal positioning for a bond is after the meter - the logic being the gas supplier can introduce a deliberate insulating joint (IJ) at the meter position to prevent currents flowing through their distribution pipework. Bonding before the meter (or where the meter should be were there one) - although the obvious thing to do from an equipotential point of view defats that. But even normal bonding inevitably leaves some unbonded pipework before the meter position. The switch to plastic distribution pipes has mitigated that risk though.

    Probably the ideal solution is to leave the pipe unbonded but covered so it can't be touched (but not an air-tight enclosure that could trap gas should there a gas escape).

      - Andy.

  • 0

    I dont really think it is practical to box it in and expect it not to be obstructed or the vents covered. It probably is plastic outside, the building is 1980s construction. 

    I think for what it is, I'll recommend it be bonded and if gas is provisioned then reconfigure the bonding to suit

    Thanks 

  • 0 in reply to Johno12345

    The pipe does not belong to the owner or operator of the premises ... do you have permission of the owner of the pipe (gas distributor) to make that connection?

    I'm guessing this fact is why it's left as-is ...

  • 0

    Johno, do you have any pictures? A few questions would need to be asked, but I would carry out a test to prove if it's required, depending on the value you obtain. Not one size fits all. 

  • 0

    Hi,

    I do have a photo, but I can't share for confidentiality

    it is basically a 3" steel section of pipe that enters the building for about 600mm, it appears to be steel where it goes into the ground outside. The building is steel framed and the framing is exposed to touch. 

    I imagine the cable has been fitted if there was to be a gas installation fitted at a later date, hence the reason for it not being connected. 

    I'm actually wondering if this is within the scope of a fire risk assessment, or if I should just comment that it needs further investigation by others.

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