Apologies for the late arrival to the conversation,
So, does anyone know where in the regulations (BS7671) it says, you can use the lug hole of the metal box as an earthing point?
I think the regulation 411.3.1.1 applies, As does 132.1
The only question is. Are the metal back boxes classed as an exposed conductive part when buried in the wall?????.... I would agree when it’s fitted into the wall it may not be an exposed conductive part, but again if it’s not stated within the regulations, it’s all about interpretation.
Then again, it’s all about the idiots who live in the house, if they take of the socket of the wall then the back box is an exposed conductive part. Agree they would deserve an electric shock for being stupid in doing it live, (but these are the same people who put 30 amp fuse wiring into a 5 amp fuse carrier because the 5 amp kept blowing) … therefore its incumbent on the designer to take into account the layman and woman who will be living in the installation afterwards. hence 132.1
I don’t know if I agree its not good practice to earth the metal box. I think it is, and makes a statement about the standards the electrician is aiming for.
but I am on the fence now about it being a bad practice in not doing it… possibly it’s just lazy….
OK Tin Hat on …..
And
Merry Christmas and happy new Year to everyone.