James provides a question about a dangerous cable joint on a customer’s 3kW oil-filled radiator. He wants to find independent guidance to assist him in educating the person concerned about the risks involved in such makeshift repairs. It has been answered by the NICEIC (Theme – Cables, Wiring and Wiring Accessories):
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Question: I am an electrical contractor and I recently came across a cable joint on a customer’s 3kW oil-filled radiator. The joint was completely wrapped in brown packaging tape, and after I removed several layers, it appeared to be in an extremely dangerous state.
I would like to find some literature or independent guidance to assist me in educating the person concerned about the risks involved in makeshift repairs like this. Is this possible?
Answer: Terminations of conductors should be appropriately enclosed and insulated to a minimum of IP2X / IPXXB barrier or enclosure BS 7671:2008, and AMD1 Regulation 416.2 applies.
With regards to connections of cable cords into / associated appliances, the IET Code of Practice for the In-Service Inspection & Test of Electrical Equipment user checks may also be of assistance.
You may also find the range of HSE guides on Portable Equipment of some help, such as maintaining portable and transportable electrical equipment etc…go to www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg107.htm
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