Guidance Note 1 Selection & Erection (Including Amd No 1 : 2002) BS 7671 : 2001 Requirements for Electrical InstallationsPublished by: The Institution of Electrical Engineers, Savoy Place, LONDON, United Kingdom WC2R OBL. ©2002: The Institution of Electrical Engineers, London Issued August 1992 Reprinted April 1993, with amendments 2nd edition incorporating Amendment No 1 to BS 7671 - 1996 3rd edition incorporating Amendment No 2 to BS 7671 - 1999 4th edition incorporating Amendment No 1 to BS 7671 - 2001 Copies may be obtained from: The Institution of Electrical Engineers PO Box 96, STEVENAGE, United Kingdom. SG1 25D Tel: +44 (0)1438 767 328 Fax: +44 (0)1438 742 792 Email: [email protected] httpy/www.iee.org.uk/publish/books! All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means — electranic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise — without the prior written permission of the publisher. While the author, publisher and contributors believe that the information and guidance given in this work is correct, all parties must rely upon their own skill and judgement when making use of it. Neither the author, the publisher or any contributor assume any liability to anyone for any loss or damage caused by any error or omission in the work, whether such error or omission is the result of negligence or any other cause. Where reference is made to legislation it is not to be considered as legal advice. Any and all such Viability is disclaimed. ISBN 0 85296 989 9, 2002Contents ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS PREFACE INTRODUCTION SECTION 1 THE GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 1.1. General 1.2. Equipment 1.3. Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 1.4 The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 1.5. The Building Regulations 2000 1.6 Competence SECTION 2 SELECTION AND ERECTION OF EQUIPMENT 2.1. Selection and erection of equipment 2.2 Operational conditions and external influences 2.3 Compliance with standards 24 Operational conditions and external influences 25 Identification 2.6 Mutual detrimental influence 2.7 Compatibility 2.8 ‘Clean’ (low noise) earths 2.9 LV switchgear and controlgear assemblies SECTION3 PROTECTION AGAINST OVERCURRENT, ELECTRIC SHOCK AND OVERVOLTAGE 3.1. Protective devices 3.2 Overcurrent protective devices 3.3 Fuses 3.4. Circuit-breakers 3.5. Insulation monitoring devices 3.6 Residual current operated devi 3.7 _Earthed equipotential bon disconnection of supply 3.8. Protection against overvoltage s (RCs) g and automatic 10 11 13 1B 13 14 14 15 7 19 19 19 19 21 22 30 30 32 | 33 40 40 4 43 a7 48 59 67 |SECTION 4 SECTION 5 SECTION 6 SECTION 7 SECTION 8 EXTERNAL INFLUENCES 4.1 External influences 4.2 Ambient temperature (AA) 4.3 Solar radiation (AN) and ultra-violet radiation 44 The IP and IK classifications 4.5 Presence of water (AD) or high humidity (AB) 4.6 Presence of solid foreign bodies (AE) 4.7 Presence of corrosive or polluting substances (AF) 48 Impact (AG), vibration (AH) and other mechanical stresses (AJ) 4.3 Presence of fauna (AL), flora and/or mould growth (AK) 4.10 Potentially explosive atmospheres 4.11 Choice of protective measures as a function of external influences INSTALLATION OF CABLES 5.1 Cable selection 5.2 Cable concealed in structures 5.3. Cable routes and livestock 5.4 Capacity of conduit and trunking 5.5. Selection of cables and wiring systems with low ‘emission of smoke and corrosive gases when affected by fire 5.6 ‘Section 20° 5.7 Buried cables 5.8. Sealing and fire stopping ‘SIZING OF CABLES 6.1 Current-carrying capacity and voltage drop 6.2 Diversity 6.3 Neutral conductors 6.4 Voltage drop in consumers’ installations OTHER INFLUENCES 7.1 Electrical connections 7.2. Cables in contact with thermal insulation 7.3, Mutual or individual deterioration 7.4 Proximity to other services 7.5 Placisticiser migration from pvc insulation to the conductor surface INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT 8.1 Equipment having a high protective conductor current 8.2 Water heating 83. Safety services 84 Other equipment 8.5 Luminaires 8.6 Selection and erection in relation to operation and maintainability 71 n R B 74 4 1s 76 78 79 80 80 84 88 1 92 92 94 96 99 101 101 101 102 104 106 106 108 wt 12 14 116 116 7 118 118 120 122APPENDICES APPENDIX A: APPENDIX B: APPENDIX C: APPENDIX D: APPENDIX E: APPENDIX F: APPENDIX APPENDIX APPENDIX I: APPENDIX J: APPENDIX APPENDIX L: INDEX CABLE CAPACITIES OF CONDUIT AND TRUNKING a) General b) Single-core thermoplastic (pve) insulated cables i of conduit not exceeding 3 m in length ©) Single-core thermoplastic (pve) insulated cables; in straight runs of conduit exceeding 3 m in length or in runs of any length incorporating bends or sets 4) Single-core thermoplastic (pve) insulated cables in trunking @) For other sizes and types of cable in conduit or trunking, including flexible conduit ) Background to the tables DEGREES OF PROTECTION PROVIDED BY ENCLOSURES IP code for ingress protection Ik code for impact protection CONVENTIONAL CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS AND THE PROVISION OF SOCKET-OUTLETS a) General b) Final circuits using socket-outlets complying with BS 1363 and fused connection units ©. Final radial circuits using 16 A socket-outlets complying with BS 4343 (BS EN 60309-2) 4) Cooker final circuits in household premises ) Water heating and electric shower final circuits in household premises . ) Provision of socket-outlets 9) Mounting heights of accessories LIMITATION OF EARTH FAULT LOOP IMPEDANCE FOR COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATION 543-01-01 straight runs RESISTANCE AND IMPEDANCE OF COPPER AND ALUMINIUM CONDUCTORS UNDER FAULT CONDITIONS SELECTION AND ERECTION OF Wi ING SYSTEMS NOTES ON METHODS OF SUPPORT FOR CABLES, CONDUCTORS AND WIRING SYSTEMS MAXIMUM DEMAND AND DIVERSITY MINIMUM SEPARATING DISTANCES BETWEEN ELECTRICITY SUPPLY CABLES AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS OR CONTROL CABLES PERMITTED PROTECTIVE CONDUCTOR CURRENTS STANDARD SYMBOLS, UNITS AND GRAPHICAL SYMBOLS FOR GENERAL ELECTRICAL PURPOSES ADDRESSES OF ASSOCIATED BODIES AND IDENTIFICATION SYMBOLS 125 126 126 128 128 129 131 133 135 135 141 143 143 144 148, 148 149 149 152 155 176 184 191 199 204 208 209 217 225Co-operating Organisations The Institution of Electrical Engineers acknowledges the cont organisations in the preparation of this Guidance Note. n made by the following Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances SA MacConnacher BSc CEng MIEE British Cables Association CK Reed | Eng MIIE British Electrotechnical & Allied Manufacturers Association Ltd R Lewington Associate IEE British Electrotechnical Approvals Board PD Stokes MA CEng MRAeS. British Standards Institution WE Fancourt City & Guilds of London Institute HR Lovegrove lEng FIIE Electrical Contractors’ Association D Locke IEng MIIE ACIBSE Electrical Contractors’ Association of Scotland t/a SELECT D Millar lng MIIE MILE Electrical installation Equipment Manufacturers’ Association Ltd Eur Ing MH Mullins BA CEng MIEE FIIE Electricity Association Limited D J Start BSc CEng MIEE ERA Technology Ltd MW Coates B Eng Federation of the Electronics industry FW Pearson CEng MIE ‘The GAMBICA Association Ltd K A Morriss BSc CEng MIEE MinstMc Health & Safety Executive Eur Ing J A McLean BSc(Hons) CEng FIEE FIOSM Institution of Electrical Engineers WR Allan BEng(Hons) CEng MIEE (Editor) PRL Cook CEng FIEE MCIBSE P E Donnachie BSc CEng FIEE B J Lewis BSc Mphil CEng FIEE L Markwell BSc CEng MIEE MCIBSE LCGI Institution of Incorporated Engineers P Tootill lEng MIIE Lighting Association KR Kearney lEng MIIE National House Building Council PCrane National inspection Council for Electrical installation Contracting Safety Assessment Federation Limited J Gorman BSc(Hons) CEng MIEE Society of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers serving Local Government C Tanswell CEng MIEE MCIBSEAcknowledgements References to British Standards, CENELEC Harmonisation Documents and International Electrotechnical Committee standards are made with the kind permission of BSI. Complete copies can be obtained by post from: BS! Customer Services 389 Chiswick High Road London W4 4AL Tel: General Switchboard: 020 8996 9000 For ordering: 020 8996 7000 For information or advice: 020 8996 7111 For membership: 020 8996 7002 Fax: For orders: 020 8996 7001 For information or advice: 020 8996 7048 BSI operates an export advisory service — Technical Help to Exporters — which can advise on the requirements of foreign laws and standards. The BSI also maintains stocks of international and foreign standards, with many English translations. Up-to-date information on BSI standards can be obtained from the BSI website http:/www.bsi-global.com/ RCD terminology and information provided by the Low Voltage Circuit Breaker Division of EIEMA and is taken from the EIEMA Code of Practice for the Selection and Application of Residual Current Devices currently being prepared for publication. Illustrations and information of the forms of separation of LV switchgear were provided by The Low Voltage Distribution Switchboard Division of EIEMA.The EIEMA booklet ‘Guide to forms of separation’ can be obtained from: EIEMA Westminster Tower 3 Albert Embankment London SE1 7SL. Tel: 020 7793 3013 Extracts from NHBC Standards, Chapter 8.1, for internal services, on the requirement for notches and holes in joists are reproduced with permission from The National House Building Council (NHBC), Buildmark House, Chiltern Avenue, Amersham, Bucks, HP6 SAP. Extracts from the LDSA document ‘Fire safety guide No 1’ on Section 20 buildings are reproduced with permission from The London District Surveyors Association, PO Box 266, London, BR2 9ZN. Guidance on cable separation in Appendix | was reproduced from The Electrical Contractors Association document ‘Recommended cable separations to achieve electromagnetic compatibility (EMO) in buildings’ with the permission of the ECA, ESCA House, 34 Palace Court, London, W2 4HY. The table on colour identification of buried services is reproduced with the permission of The National Joint Utilities Group, 30 Millbank, London, SW1P 4RD, The tables on cable references in Appendix F were reproduced with permission of Anixter (UK) Ltd, 15 Chesford Grange, Woolston, Warrington, Cheshire, WAT 4RQ. Copies of Health and Safety Executive documents and approved codes of practice (ACOP) can be obtained from: HSE Books PO Box 1999 Sudbury Suffolk CO10 6FS Tel: 01787 881165 Fax: 01787 313995Health and Safety Executive telephone enquiries can be made to: HSE Info Line on : 08701 545500 Fax and postal enquiries can be made to: HSE Information Centre Broad Lane Sheffield $3 7HQ Tel: 01142 892345.10 Preface This Guidance Note is part of a series issued by the Wiring Regulations Policy Committee of the Institution of Electrical Engineers to enlarge upon and simplify some of the requirements in BS 7671 : 2001 inc Amd No 1 (formerly the Sixteenth Edition of the IEE Wiring Regulations). Note that this Guidance Note does not ensure compliance with BS 7671. It is a guide to some of the requirements of BS 7671 but electricians should always consult BS 7671 to satisfy themselves of compliance. The scope generally follows that of the Regulations and the principal Section numbers are shown on the left. The relevant Regulations and Appendices are noted in the right-hand margin. Some Guidance Notes also contain material not included in BS 7671 but which was included in earlier editions. All of the Guidance Notes contain references to other relevant sources of information. Electrical installations in the United Kingdom which comply with BS 7671 are likely to satisfy the relevant aspects of Statutory Regulations such as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, but this cannot be guaranteed. It is stressed that it is essential to establish which Statutory and other Regulations apply and to install accordingly. For example, an installation in premises subject to licensing may have requirements different from, or additional to, BS 7671, and those requirements will take precedence.Introduction This Guidance Note is concerned principally with Part 5 of BS 7671 — Selection and Erection of Equipment. Neither BS 7671 nor the Guidance Notes are design guides. It is essential to prepare a full design and specification prior to commencement or alteration of an electrical installation. Compliance with the relevant standards should be required. The design and specification should set out the requirements and provide sufficient information to enable competent persons to carry out the installation and to commission it. A good specification must include a description of how the system is to operate and all the design and operational parameters. It must provide for all the commissioning procedures that will be required and for the provision of adequate information to the user. This will be by 514-09, means of an operational manual or schedule, and ‘as fitted’ drawings if necessary. It must be noted that it is a matter of contract as to which person or organisation is responsible for the production of the parts of the design, specification installation and any operational information. The persons or organisations who may be concerned in the preparation of the works include: The Designer The Planning Supervisor The Installer (or Contractor) The Supplier of Electricity The installation Owner (Client) and/or User The Architect The Fire Prevention Officer Any Regulatory Authority Any Licensing Authority The Health and Safety Executive ”2 In producing the design and specification advice should be sought from the installation owner and/or user as to the intended use. Often, as in a speculative building, the intended use is unknown. In such cases the specification and/or the operational manual must set out the basis of use for which the installation is suitable. Precise details of each item of equipment specified should be obtained from the manufacturer and/or supplier and compliance with appropriate standards confirmed. The operational manual must include a description of how the system as installed is to operate and all commissioning records. The manual should also include manufacturers’ technical data for all items of electrical equipment, wiring, switchgear, accessories, etc. and any special instructions that may be needed. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA) Section 6, and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) are concerned with the provision of information. Guidance on the preparation of technical manuals is given in BS 4884 and BS 4940. The size and complexity of the installation will dictate the nature and extent of the manual. 131-01-01 132-01-01 511Section 1 — The General Requirements 141 1.2 General 132 510 511 Equipment 120 130 131 132 133 510 511 ‘Equipment’ is short for ‘electrical equipment! and is defined as: “Any item for such purposes as generation, conversion, transmission, distribution or utilisation of electrical energy, such as machines, transformers, apparatus, measuring instruments, protective devices, wiring systems, accessories, appliances and luminaires.’ Installation designers may need information from the manufacturer as to the suitability of equipment for its intended use. It is not the intention of BS 7671 : 2001 to stifle innovation or new techniques but the Standard only recognises and considers established materials and techniques. The designer is responsible for the safety of the design. All departures from BS 7671, although the designer is confident regarding safety, must be recorded in the Electrical Installation Certificate. Chapter 13 of BS 7671 : ‘Fundamental principles’ outlines basic requirements. Later Chapters describe in more detail particular means of compliance with Chapter 13. Chapter 13 is normally referred to only where it is intended to adopt a method not recognised in later Chapters. The terms allow for interpretation to suit special cases. The phrase ‘so far as is reasonably practicable’ is used in several Regulations. It should be borne in mind that methods described in later Chapters are considered reasonably practicable in most circumstances. Part 2 120-02-01 132-01-01 132-01-02 511-01-01 511-01-02 Chap 13 Chap 13 Where methods are used which are not described in later Chapters, then the designer has an onus to confirm that the degree of safety is not less than that required by Chapter 13. 81.3 Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 1.4 The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 The requirements of the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989) are intended to provide for the safety of persons gaining access to or working with electrical equipment. The Memorandum of Guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989) (Health and Safety Executive Publication HSR25) should be carefully studied and it should be borne in mind that the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989) (the EAW Regulations) apply to designers, installers and users of installations alike. BS 7671 is intended for designers, installers and those verifying electrical installations and thus includes the design of the installation and the selection and erection of electrical equipment. The user has the responsibility for ensuring that equipment is properly operated and maintained when necessary. The installation designer should assess the expected maintenance and the initial design should make provision for maintenance to be carried out. Within the EAW Regulations is the requirement for adequate maintenance to prevent danger, and the memorandum to the EAW Regulations advises that regular inspection of electrical systems (supplemented by testing as necessary) is an essential part of any preventive maintenance programme. Regular Operational functional testing of safety circuits (emergency switching/stopping etc) may be required — because unlike functional circuits they may be infrequently used. Comprehensive records of all inspections and tests should be made, retained and reviewed for any trends that may arise. The IEE Guidance Note 3 on Inspection and Testing gives guidance on initial and periodic inspection and testing of installations. The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 (the CDM Regulations) made under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 place responsibilities on most installation owners and their professional design teams to ensure a continuous consideration of health and safety requirements during the design, construction, and throughout the life of an installation, including maintenance, repair and demolition. This includes design of the electrical installation, and selection and erection of electrical 131-12-04 341-01-01equipment for health and safety in installation and general operation. Design work should take into account the practicalities of installation and adequate installation and operation access and maintenance requirements for all equipment. It is important that all those who can contribute to the health and safety of a construction project, particularly clients (the installation users) and designers, understand what they and others need to do under the CDM Regulations, and discharge their responsibilities accordingly. Designers must consider the need to design in a way which avoids foreseeable risks to health and safety or reduces these risks as far as practicable so that projects they design can be constructed, operated and maintained safely. Where risks cannot altogether be avoided, information on them has to be provided for inclusion in the project health and safety plan. The designer must also co-operate with others to enable all parties to comply with relevant statutory requirements and prohibitions placed on them. A series of Approved Documents have been published for the purpose of providing practical guidance to the requirements of the Building Regulations 2000. Approved Documents of particular interest to designers and installers of electrical installations are * Approved Document L1 - Conservation of fuel and power in dwellings, * Approved Document L2 - Conservation of fuel and power in buildings other than dwellings * Approved Document M - Access and facilities for disabled people. Approved Document L1 contains a requirement that reasonable provision must be made for occupiers to obtain the benefits of efficient lighting. Approved Document M includes requirements for the mounting heights of accessories, and these are referred to in Appendix C of this Guidance Note. Internal lighting One way of demonstrating compliance with Approved Document L1 would be to install, at a reasonable number of locations, where lighting can be expected to have most use, fixed lighting (either lampholders 1131-12-01 18or complete luminaires) which only take lamps having a luminous efficacy greater than 40 lumens per circuit watt. Examples of lamps which achieve this efficacy are fluorescent lamps and compact fluorescent lamps. ‘Away of ascertaining the number of locations which require energy efficient lighting would be to follow the recommendations in Table 1.1 below. Table 1.1 Method for determining the number of locations to be equipped as a reasonable provision for efficient lighting Number of rooms] Recommended minimum created ' number of locations * 1-3 1 4-6 2 7-3 3 10-12 4 Notes "Hall, stairs and landing(s) count as one room (but may contain more than one fitting) 7 Excludes garages, lofts and outhouses Reproduced by kind permission of the DTLR External lighting External lighting includes lighting in porches but does not include lighting in garages and carports. Reasonable provision must be made to enable effective control (for example, a system which will switch the light off when there is sufficient daylight and when not required at night) and/or the use of efficient lamps (such as a system which can only be used with lamps having an efficacy greater than 40 lumens per watt). Approved Document L2 contains requirements for general lighting efficacy in offices, industrial and storage buildings. Lighting systems in such buildings must be provided with reasonably efficient lamp/luminaire combinations. A way of complying with the requirements would be to provide lighting with an initial efficacy, averaged over the whole building, of not less than 40 luminaire — lumens pet circuit watt. Approved Document L also includes requirements for display lighting.1.6 Competence For further information, the Approved Document should be consulted. {tis currently envisaged that an electrical safety requirement applying to ‘dwellings’ (ie. houses and flats) will be included in the Building Regulations for England and Wales as Approved Document P - Electrical safety. This is expected to state that a way of meeting the requirements for electrical installations is to comply with the requirements of BS 7671 : 2001. The Building Regulations (Scotland) The Building Regulations 2000 are not applicable in Scotland, where the Building Regulations (Scotland) apply. The detailed requirements are given in the Technical Standards for compliance with the Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations. These standards also contain requirements for conservation of fuel and power but have no requirement for mounting heights of accessories. With regard to electrical installations in Scotland, the requirements of the above Building Regulations are deemed to be satisfied by complying with BS 7671. BS 7671 requires that an assessment be made of the 300-01-01 external influences to which the installation is Appx 5 exposed. Amongst these, as indicated in Appendix 5 of BS 7671, is Category BA —classification of the capability of persons. This recognises different levels, from an ordinary person to a skilled person. It must be remembered that a skilled person will not be skilled in all facets of electrical work and consequently will not be competent in all works. ‘A competent person has sufficient knowledge and experience to carry out the work without danger to him/herself or to ather people. Persons performing electrical work must have 731-01-03 sufficient technical knowledge or experience orbe —741-01-04 adequately supervised such that danger or injury are prevented. The object is that persons dealing with electrical equipment are not placed at risk due to a lack of skills on their own part, or on the part of others. Technical knowledge or experience may include basic knowledge of electricity, experience of electrical work, understanding of the system to be worked on, understanding of the hazards and the18 necessary precautions and the ability to recognise at all times whether it is safe for work to continue. Competence also includes a knowledge of safety and safe working practice, and practical skills were needed. A person possessing technical knowledge or sufficient experience to enable him/her to avoid danger is recognised by BS 7671 asa ‘skilled person’ and a person adequately advised or supervised by one or Part 2 more skilled persons to enable him/her to avoid the dangers that electricity may create is an ‘instructed person’. To require, or allow, a person who is not competent to undertake electrical work may be a breach of the statutory Health and Safety legislation, including the © EWR Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Regulation 16Section 2 — Selection and Erection of 24 equipment 510 2.2 Operational conditions and external influences 512 2.3 Compliance with standards 511 Equipment Chapter 51 gives the basic common rules to which every installation must comply. An assessment by the designer of installation characteristics and conditions will be necessary, including all the requirements of Part 3 of BS 7671: 2001. The installation must be designed to be suitable for all the relevant conditions and external influences foreseen, including electricity supply effects or effects on the supply. Appendix 5 of BS 7671 details the system of classification of external influences developed in IEC 60364-3, and the classification is indicated in parts of Chapter 52. This system is not in general use in the UK but certain parts can serve as a reminder of conditions to be considered. All equipment must be selected to accommodate the worst foreseeable conditions of service that can be encountered even if such conditions happen rarely. BS 7671 recognises equipment which complies with a British Standard or Harmonised Standard appropriate to the intended use of the equipment without further qualification. A Harmonised Standard is defined in Part 2 as ‘A standard which has been drawn up by common agreement between national standards bodies notified to the European Commission by all member states and published under national procedures’. There is a statutory definition of a Harmonised Standard in Health and Safety Statutory Instrument 510-01-01 Part3 512 510-01-01 331-01-01 Chap 32 Chap 52 Appx 5 510-01-01 511-01-01 Part 220 No 1856 (1992) ‘The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 1992’. This states: ‘Harmonised standard’ means a technical specification adopted by the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) or the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardisation(CENELEC) or both, upon a mandate from the Commission in accordance with Council Directive 83/189/EEC of 28 March 1983 laying down a procedure for the provision of information in the field of technical standards and regulations, and of which the reference number is published in the Official Journal of the European Communities. EUROPEAN NORMS (ENs) European Norm EN standards are standards that are required to be adopted by all CENELEC members and to be published with identical text by all members, without any additions, deletions or further technical amendments. Such EN standards then supersede the relevant national standards which are withdrawn to an agreed timescale. They are published as BS ENs in the UK. HARMONISATION DOCUMENTS (HDs) Harmonisation Documents (HDs) forming the CENELEC 384 standard are documents based on IEC 60364. Harmonised Standards are standards that have been agreed by all CENELEC members (possibly with national modifications); a National Standard may have further technical additions (so long as they are not in conflict with the HO — but not deletions — made by the relevant national standards committee. BS 7671 is based on a number of CENELEC HDs within the 384 series (see the Preface of BS 7671 on page 7) with extra specific technical material added. Equipment is sometimes satisfactory only when used in a particular way or with other matching equipment. Certain equipment complying with a foreign standard may be safe when used, for example, with a foreign wiring system, but may not be safe when used in conjunction with traditional UK 511-01-01 practice. Where equipment complying with a foreign 511-01-02 standard based on an IEC standard is specified, the designer or specifier must verify that the equipment is at least as safe as similar equipment complying with24 Operational the relevant British or Harmonised Standard. It is the designer's responsibility to ensure that equipment the designer specifies which is not to a British or Harmonised Standard provides the required performance and degree of protection. Note that BS 7671 does not insist on approval or certification of the equipment to the relevant Standard, but this may be required in some cases by legislation or by the client. Equipment of ali types must be suitable for its situation and use. Regulation 331-01-01 lists some examples of 331-01-01 characteristics which may adversely affect the equipment to be installed or the electricity supply or other services. This list is not exhaustive but shows some details of what the designer should consider. Equipment must operate safely and should be efficient and correctly selected . The assessment of general characteristics requiresa 300-01-01 thorough consideration of the purpose of the 512-01-01 installation, the building and installation structure 512-02-01 and the electricity supply characteristics including 512-03-01 voltage, current and frequency, which must be noted during the first part of the design. If, for example, there is doubt that a switch or circuit-breaker can be used with inductive or capacitive circuits (e.g. motors, transformers or fluorescent lighting) advice should be 512-05-01 obtained from the manufacturer. 331-01-01 MOTORS Electric motors may have similar power ratings but, 512-04-01 different applications, Motors for lifts, industrial plant and machinery, propulsion or ventilation will have differing duty cycles, and will usually be the subject of a Standard. The fixed wiring must be able to match the duty cycles of the connected load. infrequently used motor-driven equipment with brakes will have 52-01-01 different demands on the fixed wiring when compared with, say, a hydro extractor which uses ‘plugging’ as a method of braking the equipment frequently. The demands on the fixed wiring should be established from the manufacturer's installation instructions. These details will form part of the 2425 22 Identification 514 installation manual. (See Guidance Note 6 for detailed information on cable selection for motor circuits.) ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY (EMC) All equipment must be selected and erected so as to allow safe working, prevent harmful effects to other equipment and not impair the supply arrangements. This includes the consideration of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) effects, as well as more straightforward considerations such as loading, 515-02 current and voltage rating, circuit arrangements, etc. Regulation 515-02 specifically requires consideration of EMC when selecting and installing equipment. Both electromagnetic immunity (EMI), the protection of equipment from other electromagnetic influences (Regulation 515-02-01), and electromagnetic emission, the production and emission of electromagnetic interference by the proposed equipment (Regulation 515-02-02), must be considered. This is a specialist application and advice from the equipment manufacturer should generally be taken. (See Appendix | for further information on cable separation.) HARMONICS Harmonics are an aspect of EMC. Harmonic voltages and currents can cause interference with the normal operation of equipment and overload cables in certain cases (see Sections 2.6 and 6 also). ‘CABLES The identification colours for non-flexible cables for fixed wiring are given in Table 51A of BS 7671 — Table 514 reproduced here as Table 2.1 for convenience. These colours will be revised after 2004. Flexible cables and flexible cords may be used for 521-01-04 fixed wiring, subject to the relevant provisions of the Regulations being met. These provisions are generally considered to relate to physical installation criteria but it should be remembered that the core colours of flexible cables and cords are not the same as those for fixed cables in Table 51A and are laid down in Table 51B. Table 51B There is no definition of a "fixed" cable and, as the colour coding for flexible cables is by now wellunderstood, there is no need to identify the cores of flexible cables or cords when their colour and function comply with Table 51B - even if they have been fixed. Any other colour identification of the cores of a flexible cord or cable is a deviation from the requirements of BS 7671 and should only be done after careful consideration as to whether in the circumstances it is impossible to comply with the requirements, and the level of safety provided is not less than that by compliance. The notes of Table 51B say that if the blue core is used for another purpose or it is necessary to identify the phases this is to be done by letters ie. L1, L2 or L3. A blue core may be used as a phase conductor if the circuit does not have a neutral and this should be identified by means of a suitable letter. If, after consideration, it is decided that a core Is to be used for a function for which its colour is not recognised by Table 51B then its function is to be identified by a letter. A brown core used as a neutral should be identified with an N and a blue core used as a phase conductor should be identified by L1 or L2 or 3. It is better, however, to select the correct cable and identification colours for an installation. Itis a deviation to apply colours to flexible cores to identify them as being used for a purpose other than that which their original colour indicates - if, after due consideration, colours are applied the deviation must be clearly recorded on the Electrical Installation Certificate and in the construction record documentation. There is also a current installation trend to supply and install multicore cables complying with HD 324: 1977 that have blue insulation on the neutral conductor. It must be noted that this may comply with Regulation $11-01-01 but not with Table 51A. Such cables should be correctly identified at their terminations. The colour combination green-and-yellow is reserved exclusively for identification of protective conductors and cannot be used for any other purpose. Bare conductors and busbars which are to be used as protective conductors may be identified using green- and-yellow sleeving or tape. 511-01-01 514-06-01 23CIRCUITS A diagram, chart or table giving details of the circuits is required. These details must be used by the person verifying compliance with BS 7671; for example, details of the selection and characteristics of the protective devices are needed for verifying protection against overcurrent and electric shock. The same details will be needed for periodic inspection and testing later on. A durable copy of the details should be fixed in or near the distribution board which serves the area. For simple installations, the Electrical Installation Certificate, together with the Schedule of Test Results, and the Schedule of Inspections, will meet BS 7671 provided each circuit is identified in the distribution board. SWITCHGEAR Labelling of switchgear is very important particularly where the route of the final circuit cables is not obvious. If there is a possibility of confusion some reliable means of identification must be clearly visible, It is necessary for the protective devices to be marked so that they can be identified easily by the user (see BS EN 60439). Fig 2.1 is a diagram of a typical installation showing the information needed to comply with BS 7671. The method of presentation will depend upon the size and complexity of the installation. Complex installations demand greater detail. Details of protective measures and cables should be provided as part of the ‘As installed’ information. When the occupancy of the premises changes the new occupier should have sufficient information to properly operate the electrical installation. Diagrams, charts, tables and schedules should be kept up to date. Such items are essential aids in the maintenance and periodic inspection and testing of an installation. WARNING NOTICES The notices called for in Section 514 of BS 7671 are intended to warn persons about the risk of working on or near live parts which may be thought to be isolated. 514-09-01 712-01-03(xvii) 514-08-01 514-09-01 741-01-01 742-01-01 514-09-01WARNING NOTICES - voltage 514-10-01 The warning notices regarding voltage concern three different situations: 1. inside an item of equipment or enclosure Where the nominal voltage (Uo) within an item of equipment or enclosure exceeds 230 volts (e.g. if a non-standard voltage such as 650 V was present), and where the presence of such a voltage would not normally be expected, before access is gained toa live part, there must be a clearly visible warning of the maximum voltage present. 2, between simultaneously accessible items of equipment or enclosures Where simultaneously accessible terminals or other fixed live parts have a nominal voltage (Uo) between them which exceeds 230 volts (such as where the voltages are from different systems), then a warning notice must be fixed in such a position that anyone, before gaining access to such live parts, is warned of the maximum voltage which exists between those parts. w . where different nominal voltages exist The means of access to all live parts of switchgear and other fixed live parts where different nominal voltages exist (e.g. if different nominal voltages such as 110 V and 230 V were present either within or between switchgear or other fixed live parts), must be marked to indicate the voltages present. Note. Three-phase 400 V (U) systems have a nominal phase to earth voltage (Uo) of 230 V and do not normally require a warning notice. OTHER NOTICES Other notices required by Section 514 are: * in each position where there are live parts which 514-11-01 are not capable of being isolated by a single device * regarding periodic inspection and testing 514-12-01 regarding earthing and bonding connections 514-13 25Where protection by earth-free local equipotential bonding or protection by electrical separation is used, the bonding conductors must not be connected to Earth. A warning notice to this effect, as specified in Regulation 514-13-02, must be fitted. SAFETY SIGNS Item 9 of Appendix 2 of BS 7671 refers to the provision of safety signs as required by the Safety Signs Regulations 1996. Risks should be minimised at the design of an installation and warning signs only used where other methods of avoiding danger are not practical to implement. WARNING NOTICES and IDENTIFICATION LABELS Table 2.2 lists the requirements for warning notices and identification labels given in BS 7671. Labels and warning notices should be of a size and type suitable for the location and installed such that they will not be painted over or easily removed or defaced. Labels etc. should be permanently fixed, e.g. by suitable screws or rivets, or resin glues, taking care not to damage equipment, invalidate IP ratings or block vents. Stick-on labels are not advisable and should only be used where heat or damp is not expected, as they cannot be considered permanent. PIPES AND DUCTS BS 1710 : 1984 (1991)prescribes a system for the identification of piped services, ducts and electrical conduits by colour. In the system, red is reserved as a safety colour for fire fighting and yellow for warning. Electrical conduits can be identified by completely painting the conduit or painting bands (150 mm in length). The colour for electrical services is orange (O6E51 in BS 4800) AT1-11-01 | A71-12-01 514-13-02 Appx 2 514-02-01Fig 2.1: Typical installation structure final circuits fina creuts wiring INSTALLATION final circuits cable sizes 2 e* —cablosizos A A bonging A cable sizes + cuit duty cai ty information uit duty 7 eee rou rating ‘design current conductors breaking capacity aking capac type & configuration ‘nal cistrbuion board [fina distbation ple breaking capacy rating function switch rating function switch pe breaking capacity protective conductors size ‘main equipotental ‘Groull rang ‘design current breaking eapaciy inal astributon boa ROD ple breaking capacity 4 rating ‘oarthing function ea switch IP code as required B bonding conductors TL trsystem | sue ; vaing valng valng separate instalation Sesign current | | design curent | [design current pte pic pic breaking capacity | | breaking capacity! | breaking capacity installation ‘conductors | protective device | rotecth earth electrode, type & configuration protective device |_| protective device | _ [protective device a busbar - aia =D rating design curont protective conductors size tovel of protection - —— 1 codo as main swichand proteclve device fraigeguiptenl requted bond INSTALLATION size & type ot — ia meter tals ple = prospective fault current nd = maximum demand pominal voltage/md current pte ‘extemal impedance earthing system value suppliers final dstibution Y ‘energy source ‘means of earthing28 TABLE 2.1 (From TABLE 51A of BS 7671) Colour identification of cores of non-flexible cables and bare conductors for fixed wiring Function Colour identification Protective (inclu circuits 19 earthing) conductor and | green-and-yellow Phase of a.c. single-phase circuit red) Neutral of a.c. single- or three-phase circuit | black Phase R of three-phase a.c. circuit red Phase Y of three-phase ac. circuit yellow Phase B of three-phase a.c. circuit blue Three-wire 460/230 V single-phase a.c. circuits (Centre conductor earthed) Outer, phase conductors (either conductor) | red Centre neutral conductor black ‘Two-wire unearthed d.c. circuits Positive of d.c. two-wire circuit red Negative of d.c. two-wire circuit black Three-wire d.c. circuits Outer (positive or negative) of d.c. two-wire circuit derived from three-wire system red Positive of three-wire d.c. circuit red Middle wire of three-wire d.c. circuit 2) black Negative of three-wire d.c. circuit blue ‘Two-wire earthed d.c. circuits positive (of negative earthed) circuit red negative (of negative earthed) circuit black positive (of positive earthed) circuit black negative (of positive earthed) circuit blue Functional Earth cream Notes: (9) As alternatives to the use of red, if desired, in large installations, for the supply cables to final distribution boards yellow and blue may also be used. All single-phase final circuit non-flexible fixed wiring must be red and black. 2) Only the middle wire of three-wire circuits may be earthed. (3) The colours in Table 2.1 only apply to fixed installations in buildings and not necessarily to installations in factory built ‘equipment which is excluded from BS 7671 (see Regulation 1110-03-01). BS EN 60204-1 details colours for the electrical equipment of machines (4) These colours will be revised after 2004.TABLE 2.2 Warning notices and ident ation labels required by BS 7671 Notice, label or identification Regulation Isolating device and its installation or circuit (if not obvious) 4461-01-05 ‘Switching device for mechanical maintenance (indication of 462-01-02 operation) 537-03-02 Protection by electrical separation 47-12-01 Protection by earth-free local equipotential bonding 47-11-01 514-13-02 ‘Areas reserved for skilled or instructed persons 4471-13-03 514-13-02 Fireman’s switch 4476-03-07 537-04-06 Purpose of switchgear and controlgear (if not obvious) 514-01-01 Conduit, identification, where required 514-02-01 Bare protective conductors 514-03-01 Diagrams, charts etc. for installation information 514-09-01 Marking voltages present on means of access 514-10-01 Voltages exceeding 230 V 3514-10-01 Live parts not capable of being isolated by a single device 461-01-03 514-11-01 Periodic inspection and testing (see Regulation 611-04-04) 3514-12-01 Quarterly test of a residual current device (see Chapters 71 and 73) | 514-12-02 Earthing and equipotential bonding connections 514-13-01 42-03-03 Earth-free equipotential bonding 5914-13-02 Cables buried in the ground 522-06-03 Caravan inlet 608-07-03 Caravan instructions for supply and periodic inspection and testing | 608-07-05 Identification of highway power supply cables 611-04-03 Highway temporary supply unit (identification by marking etc.) 61-06-02 292.6 27 30 Mutual detrimental influence 515 Compatil 512 331 Regulation 515-01 requires that there be no harmful effect between electrical and other installations. The best approach, where practicable, is to arrange that the installations are kept separated. Damage can be caused by such influences as thermal effects, electrolysis or corrosion. The thermal effects of other installations — such as hot water systems — must be considered and equipment either designed to operate properly at elevated temperatures or reduced temperatures, or be protected from such effects. Electrolysis may result from leakage currents, or from contact between dissimilar metals in damp conditions, while corrosion may result for example in rusting of unprotected steelwork. Action needs to be taken to obviate these risks. The Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Regulations place a statutory requirement on designers and constructors to design/construct electrical equipment and systems so that they do not cause excessive electromagnetic interference (emissions) and are not unduly affected by electromagnetic interference from other electrical equipment or systems. Harmonic production and interference, electrostatic discharges, mains-borne signals etc are all types of EM interference to be considered, but the subject is too wide for this Guidance Note and requires specialist advice (see Section 7, and Appendix | for some further information). The protection provided should form a prominent feature of the Building Services Manual. Guidance in the preparation of the manual can be found in BS 4884, BS 4940 and Section 6 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSW Act). Manufacturers’ leaflets for switchgear, luminaires, electrical equipment, accessories, and any special instructions, should be included. ‘The HSW Act, the Consumer Protection Act and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 provide specific requirements for information to be provided. All equipment should be selected and erected so that it will not be susceptible to interference from, or cause harmful effects to, other equipment when used for the purpose for which it was intended, nor impair 131-11 515-01 528-02 515-02 132-01-08 331-01-01 512-05the supply during normal service, including switching operations (see Section 2.4 and 2.6). Regulation 31-01-01 is of particular importance 33-01-01 when considering supplies to information technology equipment. This includes computers, electronic office equipment, data transmission equipment and point- of-sale terminals. The power supply units of this type of equipment are particularly well known for causing harmonic generation problems. Whenever electrical equipment is switched on or off, particularly where inductive loads are involved, high frequency voltage transients occur. This so-called mains-borne noise may cause malfunction in information technology equipment. The capacitance of the circuit cables and the filters incorporated in most information technology equipment attenuate this mains-borne noise. It is good practice to ensure that sources likely to give rise to significant noise (e.g. motors and thermostatically controlled equipment) are kept apart from sensitive equipment. Susceptible electronic equipment should be fed by separate circuits from the incoming supply point of the building. Additional filters (sometimes called ‘power conditioners’) may be used to reduce this transient noise on existing circuits, and surge protection devices can be installed to divert or absorb transients. (See Section 3.8) Large switch-on (inrush) current surges which occur with transformers, motors and mains rectifier circuits, can cause excessive short-time voltage drop in the circuit conductors (dips). Inrush currents affect other Circuits also and may require larger cable sizes, or the equipment to be put on separate circuits. It should be borne in mind that information technology equipment itself can cause the same problem if switched on in large groups. Where the maintenance of the supply voltage to especially sensitive equipment such as information technology equipment is considered of importance, the user may need a device such as a motor alternator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS). 312.8 32 ‘Clean’ (low noise) earths When information technology equipment is planned functional earthing and a ‘clean’ (low-noise) earth must be considered. Information on functional earthing is contained in Section 5.5 of Guidance Note 5. Information on earthing requirements for the installation of equipment having high protective conductor currents is located in Chapter 7 of Guidance Note 7. (See also Section 8.1 of this Guidance note). The protective conductors in a building are subject to transient voltages relative to the general mass of earth. These transients are termed ‘earth noise’ and are usually caused by load switching. They may be generated by the charging of an equipment frame via the stray capacitance from the mains circuit, or mains-borne transients may be coupled into the earth conductor or frame from mains conductors. As ‘earth noise’ can cause malfunction, manufacturers of large computer systems usually make specific recommendations for the provision of a ‘clean’ mains supply and a ‘clean’ earth. The equipment manufacturer's guidance must be taken for such installations. A dedicated earthing conductor may be used for a computer system, provided that: (i) all accessible exposed-conductive-parts of the computer system are earthed, the computer system being treated as an ‘installation’ where applicable (ii) the main earthing terminal or bar of the computer system (‘installation’) is connected directly to the building main earthing terminal by a protective conductor (iii) extraneous-conductive-parts within reach of the computer systems are earthed, but not via the protective conductor referred to in (ii) above. Supplementary bonding between extraneous- conductive-parts and the accessible conductive parts of the computer system is not necessary. 542-04 607-02 543-01 413-02-032.9 LV switchgear BS EN 60439-1 : 1999 gives guidance on the forms of and controlgear separation applicable to factory-built switchgear and assemblies _controlgear assemblies (switchboards, motor control centres, distribution boards, busbar trunking systems etc.), known as type-tested and partially type-tested assemblies. These forms of separation provide protection against contact with live parts belonging to adjacent devices and protection from the probability of initiating arcing faults and the passage of foreign bodies between units of the assembly. The Standard also gives guidance on other requirements for protection against electric shock. Definitions given in BS EN 60439-1 are: Type-tested low voltage switchgear and controlgear assembly (TTA) A low voltage switchgear and controlgear assembly ‘conforming to an established type or system without deviations likely to significantly influence the performance from the typical ASSEMBLY verified to be in accordance with this standard. For various reasons, for example transport or production, certain steps of assembly may be made in a place outside the factory of the manufacturer of the type-tested ASSEMBLY. Such an ASSEMBLY is considered as a type-tested ASSEMBLY provided the site assembly is carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions which should be retained for future information. The instructions will include any requirements for submission of the ASSEMBLY to further applicable routine test. Partially type-tested low voltage switchgear and controlgear assembly (PTTA) A low voltage switchgear and controlgear assembly, containing both type-tested and non-type-tested arrangements provided that the latter are derived (e.g, by calculation) from type-tested arrangements which have complied with the relevant tests. It should be noted that the forms of separation have no bearing on the overall ingress protection (IP rating or classification) for the external frame and enclosure of the switchgear assembly etc. This should be specified to the required IP rating (see Appendix B).a4 BS EN 60439-1 : 1999 is identical to IEC 60439-1 : 1999 with the exception of the additional information given in National Annex NA. Designers and specifiers working on international projects should clarify specific requirements with the manufacturer. FORMS OF SEPARATION Four forms of separation are indicated in the maii text of BS EN 60439-1 : 1999, but there is no specific detail given on how these forms are to be achieved. It is stated in the BS EN that the form of separation should be agreed between manufacturer and designer/user. It must be remembered that higher forms of separation specified will increase costs but will give better operational flexibility regarding safe working when connecting in additional circuits or carrying out maintenance. This ‘trade off’ must be carefully assessed. The four forms given have basic definitions and applications, but Forms 2 to 4 can be further subdivided into more specific “Types” (applications) by discussion and agreement with manufacturers. Further examples beyond the basic definitions in the main text of the standard are given in the National Appendix NA and are described in Form 1 to Form 4 below. Form 1 This form provides for an enclosure to provide protection against direct contact with live parts, but does not provide any internal separation of switching, isolation or control items or terminations. These overall assemblies are often known as ‘wardrobe’ type with large front opening doors, usually with an integral door interlocked isolator. Operating the isolator interrupts all functions but allows the door to be opened to gain access to the assembly for installation or maintenance. Such assemblies normally have lower fault withstand and it may be inconvenient to shut down a whole plant or system for a simple maintenance or repair operation. (See Fig 2.2)Fig 2.2: Form 1 Construction outgoing outgoing ue incoming ‘nit Form 1 - Common Enclosure a SS conductors connecing the busbars ————(") terminal tothe outgoing circus oS Form 2 The overall assembly enclosure provides protection against direct contact with live parts; separation is provided between the busbar assembly and switching, isolation, control items and terminations. There is very little advantage of this over Form 1, and the style is similar. Form 2 can be further subdivided into: —Type 1, in which the busbars are separated by insulation of the bars. — Type 2, in which the busbars are separated by metallic or non-metallic rigid barriers. 35Form3 The enclosure provides protection against direct contact with live parts, and also separation is provided between the busbars and switching, isolation or control items, and between alll these items. Outgoing terminals are not separated from each other, or perhaps from the busbars. Form 3 can be further subdivided into: —— Form 3a, in which outgoing terminals are not separated from the busbars. — Form 3b, in which outgoing terminals are separated from the busbars. Form 3b can be further subdivided into: —Type 1, in which the busbars are insulated for separation. —Type 2, in which busbar separation is by metallic or non-metallic rigid barriers or partitions. Form4 The enclosure provides protection against direct contact with live parts, and internal separation of the busbars from all switching, isolation and control items and outgoing terminations, and separation of all items and outgoing terminations from each other. This allows for access to any single item, such as a switch-fuse or starter, and its outgoing terminations, to enable work to be carried out whilst the assembly remains operational. Protection is also provided against an arcing fault in one device affecting other items. This is the usual form specified for commercial and industrial switchgear and controlgear assemblies, but the designer has to consider whether due to the extra cost such requirements are necessary or justified. Form 4 can be further subdivided into seven types: —Type 1, in which the busbars are separated by insulation coverings. Terminals for external conductors are in the same compartment as the associated item of switchgear etc., but cables may be glanded elsewhere. —Type 2, in which the busbars are separated by metallic or non-metallic rigid barriers or partitions. Terminals for external conductors are in the samecompartment as the associated item of switchgear etc., but cables may be glanded elsewhere. — Type 3, in which separation requirements are by metallic or non-metallic rigid barriers or partitions. Terminals for external conductors are in the same compartment as the associated item of switchgear etc,, and each item has its own integral cable glanding facility. — Type 4, in which the busbars are separated by insulated coverings. Terminals for external conductors are not in the same compartment as the associated item of switchgear etc., but in separate enclosed spaces, but cables may be glanded elsewhere. — Type 5, in which busbars are separated by metallic or non-metallic rigid barriers or partitions. Terminals for external conductors are not in the same compartment as the associated item of switchgear etc,, but in separate enclosed spaces, and terminals may be separated by insulated coverings. Cables may be glanded in common cabling chambers. — Type 6, in which all separation requirements are by metallic or non-metallic rigid barriers or partitions. Terminals for external conductors are not in the same compartment as the associated item of switchgear etc., but in separate enclosed spaces, and cables are glanded in common cabling chambers. — Type 7 in which all separation requirements are by metallic or non-metallic rigid barriers or partitions. Terminals for external conductors are not in the same compartment as the associated item of switchgear etc., but in separate enclosed spaces, and the termination for each item has its own integral glanding facility. (See Fig 2.3) Switchboard manufacturers therefore cannot give all- embracing assurances for safe working, according to the form of separation with parts of the assembly energised. Specifying a particular form of separation will not guarantee this for any given form number. aFig 2.3: Form 4 Construction (Type 7) Incoming T T urging units outgeing units terminal enclosure rooming ml (GQ |G some. ages GENERAL Assemblies are to be designed and constructed so as to be able to withstand the thermal and dynamic stresses resulting from fault currents up to their rated values. The designer must specify the prospective fault current conditions at the point of installation. Busbar systems for switchgear and controlgear should be adequately rated for the normal duty and maximum fault current level expected, and should be well supported and braced, as the electromechanical stresses under fault conditions can be severe. However, thermal movement must be allowed for. \t is usual for manufacturers to prove their busbar designs with a full short-circuit test by an independent test station up to the rated fault current level on a sample construction. The busbar arrangement can then be certified as a ‘type-tested’ busbar system.Tests, as detailed in BS EN 60439 : Part 1, are applied to the complete assembly as relevant at manufacture, including continuity, insulation resistance and perhaps a flash test at high voltage. The designer and installer must be aware that there are statutory requirements under the Electricity at Work Regulations and the CDM Regulations etc. for the safe design, construction, operation and provision for maintenance of electrical equipment assemblies. Adequate access, working space and lighting must be provided where work is to be carried out on or near equipment, in order that persons may work safely. It must also be realised that Regulation 8 of the Electricity at Work Regulations places an absolute requirement (one that must be met regardless of cost or any other consideration) on protective conductor connections to earth: “a conductor shall be regarded as earthed when it is connected to the general mass of earth by conductors of sufficient strength and current-carrying capability to discharge electrical energy to earth”. It may be questioned whether the termination of steel or aluminium wire armour (where used as a protective conductor) with glands into metal gland plates, which themselves may only be bolted to the switchgear or controlgear frame, is an adequate connection. Cable gland “earth tags” and supplementary connections to the equipment earth terminals may be necessary. In any case it should be ensured that any paint or other surface finish on the switchgear does not prevent effective electrical continuity between the adjacent parts. During site installation and commissioning, tests as required by BS 7671 Part 7 should be carried out on the complete assembly, plus any other specific tests advised by the manufacturer or required by the client, user or engineer. It is not usual to carry out a repeat of specialist tests such as a flash test at site, and in the event of a requirement the manufacturer's advice should be sought. 39