Testing query????

[Canttouchthis]

Whilst carrying out a periodic inspection today I stumbled across something I've not seen before a 2 gang metal back box fixed to a finished wall with a plastic socket on it? Strange I thought hears were I'm unsure! I checked the socket over all was well and the back box was earthed as expected so is this something I could note down using the 1-4 coding system or is it fine but just a little bizzar. What do you guys think?

 

[Paul.M]

Are you saying that this is a wall mounted metal back box?

 

[telectrix]

do you mean a surfasce mounted metal box? if it's safe, it's unusual but compliant so no code.

 

[Sav]

Hi,
is this a metal clad back box, or a back box that would normally be chased into a brick wall ?

If its the later, I would put it as a code 2, due to the fact the knock outs on the tops and the sides can be easily removed and hence expose the wiring to touch.

If its just a metal clad back box, then code 4
Hope this helps,
Sav

 

[telectrix]

yep, if it's a knockout box,surface mounted , a code 2 IMO.

 

[Canttouchthis]

Cheers guys that helps yes wasn't very clear in my original post it was a knock out box which you would normally sink into a wall.

 

[malcolmsanford]

Well all reg 530.4.2 tells us that a socket outlet must be fitted to an appropriate mounting box and a flush back box does fit the requirements as a BS 4662, though agreed a BS 5733 is more the norm.

So our task should be , where does it contravene the regs?

 

[telectrix]

IP rating if a knockout is dislodged. just plain unsafe. IMO. apart from looking like a pig's breakfast

 

[oxocube]

As well as above.
Doesn't comply with manufacturers instructions.
Unacceptable ip rating due to holes in the box.

 

[telectrix]

could always wrap a bit of tape over the holes.!