Published: 11 June 2009
Category: Q&A
Our Voltimum Experts answer your questions on a daily basis in our Technical Expertise area. This one, concerning a domestic generator and its protection, is answered by SELECT:
Question: I've been asked to connect a generator to a domestic dwelling to guard against power failure. The homeowner has provided a switching device that can be switched in case of mains failure - this is 30mA RCD protected from this point only. However I am under the impression that to comply with the 17th Edition, a 30mA RCD will need to be provided. Is this the case, as the generator is not equipped with RCD protection?
Answer: I would recommend that you discuss this with the generator provider / manufacturer. If the generator is supplied complete with a provision to connect an earth electrode to earth, then a 30mA RCD will be required for additional protection. Generators supplied without this provision generally have a separated earthing system for safety, and RCD protection would not normally be necessary.
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