Q & A of the Day - How to report a domestic earthing problem?

Question: In carrying out an inspection and testing in a first floor flat, a bedroom circuit has lost its earthing. The circuit hasn't been touched since the original installation approximately 20 years ago. In the periodic inspection report, under 'Observations & Recommendations', how would one report this? At present, what I may do is replace the light backbox from metal to plastic. To trace the problem would be a nightmare.

Answer: The regulations are not retrospective and, under some previous installations, it was not a requirement to provide an earthing terminal at connection of a lighting point.

However, it should be ensured that, under these circumstances, only class 11 lighting accessories are installed - this would include the back box.

You should probably report this as a 'Deviation Code 4' - it does not comply with current regulations.

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