Advice about RCD's

[Chris C]

Just carried out a periodic on a childrens nursery (built 1994 not tested since), all tested ok but there are no RCD's. Extension leads laying about, radios being taken into the playground etc, what code if any? Be gentle with me it's Monday morning.

 

[Octopus]

It would be a C2 or C3. How many sockets and could you/they simply replace a few sockets with those with RCD's built in?

 

[Chris C]

5 ring finals, total of 46 sockets, I'm guessing RCBO's are the answer but again what code?

 

[Plonker 3]

If 230 volt equipment is being used in the playground I would give it a C2.

 

[brman]

As Dillb said, ESC best practice guide.......
"Absence of RCD protection for portable or mobile equipment that may be reasonably be expected to be used outdoors" is a C2.
If indoors and not supply a bathroom etc it becomes a C3.

It is well worth having a printed copy of the guide as most of this stuff is spelled out very clearly.
http://www.esc.org.uk/fileadmin/use...y/best_practice/BestPracticeGuide4-Locked.pdf

 

[Farmelectrics]

see this is were its all wrong how has a nursery been allowed to operate when the electrics have not been tested for so long why are these places not asked for proof of condition of electrics more often

 

[ackbarthestar]

see this is were its all wrong how has a nursery been allowed to operate when the electrics have not been tested for so long why are these places not asked for proof of condition of electrics more often

I'm amazed that this type of property has escaped any form of control. Most council owned concerns are usually checked, due to insurance requirements. But privately owned Nurseries might slip through the loop.

I'd agree with others here that RCD protection is now required for all sockets and circuits that can be utilized outside or locations where body resistance is reduced.

 

[Farmelectrics]

yes i agree glad my child dosent go there mind you you wouldnt no wether theres lots more places like that worse i bet

 

[Guest55]

Normally , the absence of rcd protection for general purpose sockets warrants a code 3 on an EICR.
However , as the premises includes children whom can be more vulnerable to shock , i'd give a code 2 to the sockets in the areas where the kids are present , and code 2 for sockets that could be used for outdoor equipment.
Just my opinion of course , but you as the inspector need to make your own risk assessment.

 

[ackbarthestar]

Interesting.
These places have a duty of care to their wards. I believe there is a policy in place called Safeguarding for the vulnerable. They would then be negligent in this respect.