Replacing Landing Switch - need some help please

[Adam W]

Presumably the switch worked before, with the same wires you've got there?

 

[Cheetz007]

Yes, it did, but unfortunately I wasn't around when Dad decided to take it apart, otherwise I would have a much better idea of what is going on. The guy is in his 70s and doesn't always listen to my advice

 

[Adam W]

If it's a 2 way switch, (ie there's another switch which controls the same light) it sounds like he's used the earth as a live core, which IMO is unacceptable because the earth has a smaller CSA than the other cores and it relies on the outer sheath for electrical insulation when it's only intended to provide mechanical protection.
It might be worth getting someone to have a look at it.

 

[Cheetz007]

Well, from what I can tell, it looks like someone has used the earth as a part of the circuit, cos there's 2 pairs of T&E with a third wire which looks to me like it should have a yellow and green sleeve on it, so I'd say you are dead right there.

 

[Geordie Spark]

Yes, it did, but unfortunately I wasn't around when Dad decided to take it apart, otherwise I would have a much better idea of what is going on. The guy is in his 70s and doesn't always listen to my advice

Aye ...... us auld gadgees are like that!!!