Is bypassing an RCD legal?

Question:

I work in a theatre in London and have been privy to an email saying that the engineers intend to bypass the RCD in an area of the building because they cannot find the fault and it keeps tripping. Apparently all investigations have failed to identify the cause.

Is it legal to do this? I was under the impression there is no such thing as nuisance tripping and there is always a cause.

Are we at risk of fire and should I blow the whistle?
 

Answer: 

The bypassing of an RCD needs very careful consideration before it takes place. It needs to be established the purpose of the RCD and whether the bypassing will cause any safety issues for the users of the installation. Where an RCD is required for earth fault protection, additional protection or fire protection we would not recommend bypassing the device.

Technical Standards Engineer - NICEIC

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