Published: 15 April 2014
Category: Q&A
Manoj asks this question, which is about RCD protection in a veterinary practise when an old consumer unit is being upgraded, in order to ensure that operating theatres and other equipment are not at risk if tripping occurs. It has been answered by the NICEIC (Theme – Regulations and Legislation):
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Question: I have been asked to upgrade the old Wylex consumer unit in a veterinary practise with a new unit. In your opinion, would this type of premises require RCD protection by the way of RCBOs for all outgoing circuits?
I am a little undecided on this one as the practice has two operating theatres, recovery rooms, consulting rooms with computers etc., as you would expect.
If an item of equipment develops an earth fault and trips out an RCBO, it could cause a major issue for the animals in their care.
Would you class the veterinary staff as trained, instructed or skilled, so that the RCD requirement can be omitted?
Answer: BS 7671 Regulation 411.3.3 sets out the requirements for additional protection to socket outlets for use indoors. There are exceptions depending upon the level of supervision, and also for socket outlets that are provided for a specific item of equipment - as opposed to those for general use.
If there are concerns over the welfare of animals in the event of a trip, then dedicated circuits for this equipment could be considered, ensuring that the outlet is identified to the equipment it has been designed to serve (exception (b) of 411.3.3.).
Any outlets intended for general purpose use by ordinary persons should be additionally protected at 30mA by an RCD, unless the use of them is effectively supervised. The question of supervision should be discussed with the practice management to establish whether any such supervision is achievable and sustainable.
The same discussion should also include any supervision required by Regulation 522.6.101 with reference to cables concealed in walls and partitions, as a consumer unit replacement is effectively an alteration as defined by BS 7671 and hence the requirements of 522.6.101 should be considered.
It is also worth considering Section 710 in relation to veterinary surgeries if there are concerns over animal welfare during surgery (Note 2 to Regulation 710.1).
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