Communal Area EICR code

[bilbo_88]

Hi All

What code would you give for an old Wylex Consumer Unit with a wooden backing, located in the escape route of a communal area?

I was leaning towards a C2 but don't know if I'm being too harsh?

Thanks

 

[telectrix]

C3 for me. those old wylex boards were virtually fireproof. made of bakelite.bear in mind that a lot of modern boards and DNO equipment are mounted on wood that's far more flammable than the old seasoned timber that was used then

 

[Ian1981]

Hi All

What code would you give for an old Wylex Consumer Unit with a wooden backing, located in the escape route of a communal area?

I was leaning towards a C2 but don't know if I'm being too harsh?

Thanks

If it's made of a non ferrous material and is located in the area which the sole means of escape then I would C3 it.
If it's a commercial building however and not defined as a dwelling I'd not code it for its location or material it's made from.

 

[westward10]

The only time I would C2 it were if it shows signs of internal thermal damage otherwise I would C3 whether commercial or domestic. Escape routes on commercial properties should not have any electrical distribution equipment installed on them and I would say the same applies to communal escape routes.

 

[Deleted account]

I agree C3 it, but I normally produce a separate report from the EICR explaining why an updated board would be a good idea for safety and functional reasons if I felt the need.

You will probably be coding lack of rcd within the EICR installation for other reasons, so changing the consumer unit to a modern board would address these issues and bring the whole installations fault protection up to more current standards.

I always try to be honest with the customer and never say they have to get this work done and at the same time explain the need to have the work done, but trying to get a good balance can be tricky.

If your too strong in your advice are you forcing this work onto your customer. If your too week in your advice the customer may just dismiss your advice out of hand without thinking it through.

 

[Ian1981]

The only time I would C2 it were if it shows signs of internal thermal damage otherwise I would C3 whether commercial or domestic. Escape routes on commercial properties should not have any electrical distribution equipment installed on them and I would say the same applies to communal escape routes.

Why C3 on commercial?
Just for the location do you mean?

 

[bilbo_88]

Generally with a lot of the properties I've done this week it is the same. I usually recommend an upgrade for the consumer unit, however its an estate agents who want a 'Satisfactory' in the cheapest possible way

 

[westward10]

Why C3 on commercial?
Just for the location do you mean?

The fact it has a wood frame enclosure, no barriers over internal live parts etc. I would comment its location for a FRA but not necessarily on an EICR but would find enough wrong with it to warrant replacement.