Published: 25 April 2014
Category: Q&A
Phil asks this question, which concerns the means of isolation in domestic electrical installations, whether warning labels should be applied, and what EICR coding is appropriate. It has been answered by SELECT (Theme – Regulations and Legislation):
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Question: We are currently carrying out Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) to various domestic properties and are finding that there are two main switches on each consumer unit. One of these controls the general power, while the other controls the lighting.
However, there is no single means of isolation other than the fused cut-out. My interpretation of BS 7671:2008 (2011) is that there should be a single means of isolation, or alternatively, where there is not, we should have a warning label clearly stating that there are two isolators.
Can you please advise as to whether my above interpretation is correct, as I find the regulations unclear on this topic?
I would also appreciate your advice on the correct coding for this: i.e. C2 or C3 - assuming that you agree with my above interpretation.
Answer: The fused cut-out could be regarded as a means of isolation.
However, they can only be withdrawn by a person authorised to do so by the distributor - Regulation 537.1.3 - so your suggestion that a label should be provided as per Regulation 537.1.6 would, in my opinion, be correct.
C2 coding for the observation would, in my opinion, be appropriate.
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