Ring Final CCT - Cable clipped direct to an outside wall

[freedomrun]

I've been asked to install a new RFC at a Ground Floor Flat. The Socket outlets for this circuit are going to be in a room at the rear of the property on the other side of the flat from the CU - the owner does not want me to install the cable through the Flat, but wants me to route the cable around the outside of the building ' Clipped Direct '. I have suggested conduit or trunking for the run, but the owner has asked for the cable to be clipped direct.

The cable height would be about 500 mm from the ground, maybe a bit more in a Horizontal run around the outside of the building. 30mA RCD protection is in use on all circuits.

I have pointed out that the cable will lack mechanical protection and exposure to UV - but i'm unable to find anything that states that this installation method would be outside the regs.

It might look rough, but if the owner has asked for this - should i proceed with the install in this way ??

 

[telectrix]

conduit or use SWA. T/E clipped outside is a no-no. ( not suitable for the environment).

 

[freedomrun]

The customer has outside lighting already installed with T/E clipped direct, they want to reduce costs and SWA or Conduit will increase the estimate.

 

[Outspoken]

BS6004 that gives the standard for 624Y Twin and earth states that it should have an operating range of -5°C and +70°C as extremes of operating. BATT cables state their 624Y has a minimum bending temperature of 0°C and recommends it is not used where it is exposed to temperatures below 0°C for extended periods, it does not recommend it used for external use unless mechanically protected and not where temperatures will regularly drop again below 0°C.

There is no way in my mind that the installation of T&E for a circuit of this type would comply with the Regs as the cable is not designed or manufactured with this type of installation in mind, whilst it may not specifically say so it in the Regs, using a cable, accessory or other critical item outside of the specification decreed by the BSI cannot be compliant in my mind.

The customer needs to rethink this or you should walk away so at least you have your head held high on moral and professional grounds...

 

[Outspoken]

The customer has outside lighting already installed with T/E clipped direct, they want to reduce costs and SWA or Conduit will increase the estimate.

Yeah, and the ----'s used cyanide gas to kill humans, doesn't make it right to use it today though does it!!

 

[markythesparky]

why dont you use SWA or Hi-TUF? im not sure what the problem is. its fine that the client wants to keep costs down but he shouldn't be doing it by compromising safety. does he want it done properly or not?

 

[Andy78]

The customer needs to rethink this or you should walk away so at least you have your head held high on moral and professional grounds...

This!
Point him towards the pub for tradesmen more suited to his budget. The job that makes you drop your standards is the job that lumps you in the same boat as the jacks of all trades.

 

[kingeri]

I'd use SWA and run in a radial rather than a ring. Or just walk. Don't do substandard work though, mate.

 

[7029 dave]

use high tuff easy

 

[Octopus]

Quote for a solution which doesn't include T&E exposed. If they don't like it then simply walk away.