Plastic consumer units and how to code them

[old man sparky]

Good old amendment 3 and the demise of all that's plastic, we have seen many discussions on the good old plastic consumer units, so now for those EICR's where plastic has and will be around for quite some time, SO !!
We all seem to have slightly differing views on this, but here goes.
C2 if there are signs of thermal damage ( I think we would all agree with that one)
C3 dependant on certain locations ie only route of escape or under a staircase.
Other than that no code ?? with just an observation ?? Or no code with no comment at all ??
Throwing a spanner into the works, I code 3 ALL plastic consumer units, but why !!
Of course I could just say its my signature and my decision, plus a C3 is not failing the install, but there's another reason.
Before saying, I would be interested to see what your thoughts are, as I think this could prove quite interesting.

 

[Strima]

I tend to make a note of the type and layout of the consumer unit in the general comments box. i.e split load Hager plastic CU.

I only code when I feel it is warranted, not as a default.

 

[Lister1987]

C3 by default is understandable (afterall the code is defined as Improvement Recommended); if nothing else it's arse-covering and doesn't fail the EICR; Much like any other nonconformities to current 18th edition; C3 so it's on record in more than just a 'passing comment' and is inkeeping with the purpose of the C3 code - obviously go further attaching relevant regs from 7681, EAWR and that like where appropriate to further explain your engineering judgement.

I find it interesting that we focus on CUs being non-plastic and yet permit things like REC2 Isolators (with or without SPD) and Thier assemblies to be plastic, along with adaptable boxes, for that main being plastic - I believe 5839 makes an stipulation that any junction boxes et all are to be metalic to ensure system integrity bit would have to find out the relevant clauses to confirm.

 

[Mike Johnson]

I wonder how long it will be before this goes even further and we have metal MCB's, RCD's, RCBO's and main switch's, even to the extent of T&E being metal sheathed, or maybe back to metal conduit becoming compulsory.

 

[old man sparky]

C3 by default is understandable

I agree ? But WHY ??

 

[Zerax]

I wonder how long it will be before this goes even further and we have metal MCB's, RCD's, RCBO's and main switch's, even to the extent of T&E being metal sheathed, or maybe back to metal conduit becoming compulsory.

What about lead sheathed cables ? Mad idea, but it might work...

 

[old man sparky]

What about lead sheathed cables ? Mad idea, but it might work...

H&S would have a field day !! Lead poisoning ?

 

[Mike Johnson]

I don't make a habit of licking cabals, lead cased or not. ?

 

[Lister1987]

I agree ? But WHY ??

Did you not read the above? Because you are recommending improvement

 

[old man sparky]

I don't make a habit of licking cabals, lead cased or not. ?

So you don't strip em with your teeth !! Obviously not old school ??