Published: 1 April 2014
Category: Q&A
Melvyn asks this question, which concerns a small kitchen having a sink and drainer that covers, and where to site an electrical socket. It has been answered by the ECA (Fire, Safety and Security):
This Q & A is one of thousands posted in our Technical Expertise area, and answered on a daily basis by our Voltimum Experts.
Question: I have a small kitchen that has a sink and drainer that covers to make the worktop.
How close can I place an electrical socket to the sink - i.e. can I, for example, place it behind the drainer?
Answer: There is no specific distance stated in BS 7671. However, there is guidance that suggests 300mm as a minimum distance to reduce the risk of splashing.
Each case needs to be assessed individually, but mounting above a draining board is not ideal. The socket should only be sited in that position if the chances of splashing are judged to be minimal.
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