No earth at lights, customer won't change?

[Koreelec]

Hi guys wondering if you could help?

I have just installed a new fuseboard with rcbos and spd.

During the install I noticed that the lighting circuits have no earth. I have informed the customer but she doesn't want me to change lights to class 2 fittings as she is happy with her current lighting fixtures. What do I do?

Thanks in advanced

 

[westward10]

Did you not realise this before you changed it, did you carry out any prior testing.

 

[littlespark]

Agree it should have been noticed before changing… but too late now.

Has it been noted on the certificate?
Has it been noted at the consumer unit for any future electrician?

Arguably, you’ve left it in safer condition than it was, but the new fancy rcbo’s won’t work under certain faults..

 

[westward10]

Problem is that if there are Class I light fittings and you have replaced the consumer unit then ADS is not afforded and it becomes your problem.

 

[Risteard]

Agree it should have been noticed before changing… but too late now.

Has it been noted on the certificate?
Has it been noted at the consumer unit for any future electrician?

Arguably, you’ve left it in safer condition than it was, but the new fancy rcbo’s won’t work under certain faults..

It can't be certified though as it is non-compliant, and indeed potentially hazardous.

 

[cireland]

Are the lights wired in singles/conduit?
Did you do a wander lead test to confirm they have no earth?

 

[Pretty Mouth]

There is some guidance in BPG1 for this sort of situation:

https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/media/2146/bpg1.pdf

If I was in your shoes , and she absolutely refuses to have them changed, then I would make sure there are no immediately dangerous faults, ie good IR between the exposed metal parts of the lights/switches, and the live conductors of the installation. Then make appropriate notes on the cert, and cover it with a letter/email explaining the potential for danger with their lights, and advising her to get them rectified ASAP.

Not ideal, but too late to go back now.

 

[ipf]

You've installed the CU?
I would have thought the lack of circuit earths would be one of the first things to be noticed whilst in the process of removal of the old unit. Why not notify the owner at that point rather than complete the change over?

As it is, rubber gloves would be useful for her whilst lamp changing.

 

[westward10]

@Koreelec you posted this four and a half hours ago, have had several replies but you have remained silent.

 

[HappyHippyDad]

I would be emailing the lady explaining it is being left in a potentially dangerous condition and needs rectifying asap. She won't do it, but at least you have some proof that you tried.

I have been caught out like this before, but luckily the owner was more receptive to my suggestions.

I used to have a checklist I would go through during a pre works visit for a CU change. This included checking if the lights are earthed. I find I have become a little more relaxed in my attitude towards CU changes, which is not a good thing!

 

[westward10]

I would be emailing the lady explaining it is being left in a potentially dangerous condition and needs rectifying asap. She won't do it, but at least you have some proof that you tried.

I have been caught out like this before, but luckily the owner was more receptive to my suggestions.

I used to have a checklist I would go through during a pre works visit for a CU change. This included checking if the lights are earthed. I find I have become a little more relaxed in my attitude towards CU changes, which is not a good thing!

How does that work. Dear Mrs/Miss/Ms X I have replaced your consumer unit however due to my lack of insight I have now realised somewhat too late that your electrical installation has serious issues that I failed to initially identify. I would now like to email you to cover myself because I totally ****** up and hopefully this may dissipate the consequences of my actions.

 

[Risteard]

I used to have a checklist I would go through during a pre works visit for a CU change. This included checking if the lights are earthed.

A sensible enough policy.

 

[Risteard]

I find I have become a little more relaxed in my attitude towards CU changes, which is not a good thing!

Yes indeed.

 

[nicebutdim]

Perhaps, if the OP returns, they might provide some background on the reasons behind this board change?

I can't help wondering if the customer had been advised a new board was required to make the installation safer.

 

[davesparks]

Hi guys wondering if you could help?

I have just installed a new fuseboard with rcbos and spd.

During the install I noticed that the lighting circuits have no earth. I have informed the customer but she doesn't want me to change lights to class 2 fittings as she is happy with her current lighting fixtures. What do I do?

Thanks in advanced

Well that's quite a pickle you've got yourself into isn't it!

Have you discussed rewiring the non-compliant curcuuts with the customer? Your suggestion of replacing light fittings with class 2 fittings is a last resort option, not a first port of call!

If the customer is refusing a rewire of these circuits have they said why? In order to get yourself out if this mess have you considered offering the rewire at reduced price or cost price?

You obviously can't certify the job until this issue is resolved, so you can't comply with part P, which is law.