IR testing with remote RCCBs

[cambria]

I know RCCBs can be damaged by IR tests but what if the remote RCCB is switched off and IR test just performed between line and neutral connected together and earth, would that still cause damage and if not woud it give a valid reading ? I've got to test an installation with 40 remote RCCBs and not looking forward to going to each one and disconnecting them to do IR tests

 

[Short Circuit]

you need to disconnect them, otherwise the readings will be out, and it will look like a fault. bit bad news if there are 40 of them! Good luck

 

[pushrod]

I am not certain about this so someone is welcome to correct me.

I think it it depends on the reason why you are doing the tests - if it is for a PIR, with no agreed limitations, then yes no shortcuts. But if it is for a less formal checkup where time is money then AFAIK soft testing them at 250V with L and N connected in one croc and the CPC in the other would allow you to identify circuits that were definitely OK with respect to insulation to earth and others that would need further investigation; and so could save quite a bit of time. Depends what the client wants and agrees to.