Discuss What code? No RCD, outside lights in the Electrical Testing & PAT Testing Forum area at ElectriciansForums.net

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Pretty Mouth

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Outdoor lighting circuit (domestic) without 30mA RCD additional protection, what code would you give it?

I'm leaning toward C2 as (A) outside lights have a habit of filling up with water, and (B) anyone touching it may be in contact with the bare ground.

What are your thoughts?
 
Yes it’s an improvement to have an RCD but it may be potentially dangerous if the IP rating is wrong or the fitting is ‘showing signs’ on inspection.
 
This is probably one of those 2.5s that crop up regularly.

If it's a plastic light, or well outside touching distance I'd almost certainly C3. If it was metal in good condition and with suitable fault protection then I'd C3 too, but if it is looking old or like it was poorly maintained, then that might push it to C2.

BPG4 does say C2 for inadequate IP rating, though doesn't specifically mention anything about outside lights.
 
As above, C3 only. IP rating is another question on the schedule of many questions...
 
Thanks for all your comments.

I often see outdoor lighting in poor shape, mainly due to weathering rather than poor installation, and it's often the cause of RCD tripping, so I consider it 'risky'. Personally, I like to see an RCD protecting it, but I don't write the regs. C3 it is then!
 

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