Class I and CLass II

[Craig Watson]

I understand what Class I and Class II are i.e earth cable or double insulated, but is there anything which states when one should be used over the other or is it just a choice ?

 

[Bobster]

In what context? When manufacturing or installing said equipment?

 

[Deleted member 26818]

Most installations have both classes.
Sockets and power outlets are usually Class I, a lot of lighting and bathroom items are class II.

 

[Craig Watson]

In what context? When manufacturing or installing said equipment?

Either, I am trying to work out why one method is used over the other and if there is any specific requirement for one to be used rather than the other.

 

[telectrix]

one pointer is if you have a lighting circuit from the 1960's with no cpc. you'd then use only class II fittings.

 

[Pete999]

Either, I am trying to work out why one method is used over the other and if there is any specific requirement for one to be used rather than the other.

A lighting circuit with no CPC (earth wire)

 

[telectrix]

A lighting circuit with no CPC (earth wire)

slow . .

 

[Pete999]

slow . .

Yes I know, but I had just been the the Big O shed

 

[westward10]

Class II equipment either use double insulation or a single layer of reinforced insulation for basic protection. Accessories such as plastic light switches or batten holders are not considered to be double insulated.

 

[johnduffell]

use double insulated/class II if you have a free choice, especially outside the house, as it reduces the (already small) risk caused by having earthed metal around.

 

[johnduffell]

Accessories such as plastic light switches or batten holders are not considered to be double insulated.

Interesting observation! Although the lampholder itself is marked with the double square (even though it has exposed contacts with the lamp removed) the rose itself has no such marking. Perhaps that's because it comes under a junction box standard rather than an appliance in some way?

 

[westward10]

Batten holders do not provide double insulation and yes I have seen the labels on them. Batten holders generally provide no provision for basic protection, see the Note at the end of Reg 416.2.4