Richie asked our experts panel for clarity on whether low-smoke fume cables are a requirement in non-domestic buildings.
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'm currently looking at design proposals for a building where it has been proposed that the 'non-domestic' building is wired in PVC twin and earth cables however, I'm struggling to find regulations or standards which advise that low smoke cabling must be used. I've looked through BS 7211:2012, and the Guide of Use, notes that - "Attention is drawn to the Building Regulations 2010, part B volume 1, paragraph B1.iv for details on safe means of escape". However, this is only applicable to England and Wales, therefore, I've looked through the Non-Domestic Technical Standards to see if there's a similar note, and there doesn't appear to be. We've always specified that LSOH cables are used in both domestic and non-domestic installations, however, is this perhaps just good practice and there is nothing that states these should be used?
Richie
Answer:
Malcolm Duncan I.ENG MIET, Senior Technical Adviser, SELECT
Hi Richie
The use of LSOH cables is not a requirement of BS 7671 in domestic or Non-domestic buildings at present.
The use of these cables is often subject to specification requirements rather than regulation.
Regulations, however, may soon require such cables when installed in escape routes in certain buildings.
I hope this helps.