Lighting CPC

MarkyRR · Feb 17, 2014

Excuse what may be an obvious question here fellas, so I apologise, but I'm having a real brain fade after a bit of a trying couple of weeks at work (other work, not 'here')......A customer has requested that I install 3 x 12v downlight fittings to a small ensuite. My question is that as that particular circuit has no CPC, can I fit metal-bodied 12v fittings as the transformers/connections will be away from any point of contact (in loft space) in the ensuite?

My thoughts were that as the customer would not be able to get anywhere near the transformers at the same time as the metal fittings (without dropping them out of the ceiling first, of course!), and that as the transformers would be away from the fittings, any fault would be no more than 12v, then it could be ok to fit them.

Obviously I have explained the benefits of re-wiring that circuit/adding a separate CPC, but my words are falling on deaf ears.

What do you think folks?

Thanks

Badged01 · Feb 17, 2014

Any work you undertake needs to meet the latest edition (17th) of BS7671.

The question you need to ask yourself is do the regs allow you to do work without a CPC, especially in a special location where specific protection is called for?

guest119 · Feb 17, 2014

Walk away.

Boydy

R G · Feb 17, 2014

As Above!!

camerabloke · Feb 17, 2014

put an earth on it then

pjcomp · Feb 17, 2014

Are the fittings Class 1 that require an earth, or Class 2 requiring no earth? Ideally the circuit should have a CPC but if the fittings do not need earthing what would you attach a CPC to?

pj

Badged01 · Feb 17, 2014

camerabloke said:
put an earth on it then

Thats what he doesnt want to do, add a CPC ...... which is not a problem if the regs allow it!

telectrix · Feb 17, 2014

it's irrelevant whether the fittings are class II, selv, or whatever. the LV cables to the transformers should incorporate a cpc. if not requred for trannys or fittings then it should be terminated as a "dead end".

amptramp · Feb 17, 2014

How old is the installation ? pre 1970s ? if there is no cpc and the client wont agree to an update you will be unable to comply with the regs , so just walk away anything less is wrong imho.