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QUESTION:
In Regulation 422.2.1 both in BS 7671:2018 and Amm1. It refers to cables in protected escape routes. Does this apply where the cables are installed above a solid plasterboard ceiling with access hatches at say 3m intervals and lights in the ceiling? I can see no Data or IRS Co-Ax cables meeting the 60332-3 standard and Openreach Fibre Optic drop links into apartments are unlikely to meet this standard, does this mean that they need to be installed in a non-flame propagating conduit & trunking system throughout the residential communal corridors?
ANSWER:
Amendment 1 of BS 7671 was withdrawn on the 27th of September 2022. We are now implementing the regulations from BS7671:2018+AM2:2022.
Part 2 of the regulations defines protected escape route as " a route enclosed with specified fire resisting construction designated for escape to a place of safety, in the event of an emergency"
Wiring installed in this area must comply with Regulation 422.2.1 including signalling and communication cable and the like which is included in the regulation 110.1.2 indent (vi).
Protected escape routes have an enhanced level of fire protection over general escapes routes, so does the plasterboard ceiling and the hatches associated with this, have this enhanced level of fire protection? This information would be in the fire safety manual produced by or for the person responsible for the building as detailed in fire safety legislation or guidance.
Bob Cairney, Stuart McKelvie, Keith Hagan, Neil Sim and Mark McLaughlin
Experts on all aspects of Electrical Installation Scottish Building Standards
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