Elec Wiring Regs 2007 Rev 01
Elec Wiring Regs 2007 Rev 01
Elec Wiring Regs 2007 Rev 01
Electricity Wiring
Regulations 2007
Issued by:
the Regulation and Supervision Bureau
for the Water, Wastewater and Electricity Sector
in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi
www.rsb.gov.ae
Revision 1
January 2009
Regulation and Supervision Bureau
for
the Water, Wastewater and Electricity Sector
in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi
In addition to its duties over licensed companies, the Bureau has certain
responsibilities towards the general public, including the assurance of
safe and efficient electricity and water supplies to customers and these
Regulations have been produced with this primary aim in mind.
Nicholas Carter
Director General
1 January 2009
Government organisations:
Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority
Al Ain Distribution Company
Abu Dhabi Distribution Company
Abu Dhabi Municipality
Al Mirfa Power Company
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)
Dubai Municipality (Central Laboratory)
Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA)
Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA)
Emirates Standardisation and Metrology Authority (ESMA)
Private organisations:
Benchmark Electrical Safety Technology Ltd
Parsons International Ltd
Schneider Electric FZE
Voltas Limited, UAE
Ian Banham Associates
Pell Frischmann Consultants
Gibb Ltd
Power Economy Middle East
WSP Middle East Ltd
GHD Ltd (Aust/UAE)
ABB Industries LLC (Dubai)
Power Connections Ltd
Reed Smith Richards Butler
British Standards Institute
Electrium Ltd
Chapter
Regulation
Note
Clause
Amended text
(Revision 1)
ED/R01/010
Dec 2007 T Khan L Hill Publication
Issue 1
ED/R01/010
Jan 2009 T Khan L Hill Publication
Revision 1
1 Introduction 11
1.1 Citation and commencement 11
1.2 Purpose and document structure 11
1.3 Scope and enforcement 12
2 Definitions 15
2.1 Interpretation 15
6 Earthing 53
6.1 General principles 53
6.2 Systems of earthing 53
6.3 Main earth terminal 54
6.4 Earth electrodes 55
6.5 Earth conductors 56
6.6 Exposed-metallic-parts 58
6.7 Earth fault loop impedance 59
6.8 Lightning protection 60
6.9 Functional earthing and high
leakage currents 61
Appendices 101
Guidance Notes 191
1.1.2 These Regulations take effect from 1 January 2008, and for
amendments incorporated in Revision 1, from 1 January
2009.
Words which are defined under this section are used in the Regulations
beginning with capital letters. For example, “all Earth Conductors
within a Premises shall be ...”.
Terms in common use are not defined here and normal dictionary
definitions apply (e.g. circuit-breaker, plug, conduit).
Words and expressions other than those described in this section, which
are defined in the Law, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in
the Law.
Words using the singular or plural number also include the plural or
singular number, respectively.
Principles
Company or without approval, testing and certification in
accordance with Regulation 3.2.
Principles
3.5.8 All Electrical Installations must be provided with a means
of isolating the electricity supply at suitable sections,
subsections and Circuits, and at points where Appliances
are used, see Regulation 5.6.
Principles
safely and carry out their designed function in the expected
operating environment. The following environmental
conditions may be used as a guide if no other special factors
apply:
(a) maximum ground temperature (at 1 m depth): 35˚C; 3
(b) soil resistivity: according to local conditions;
(c) weather: mainly sunny, occasional fog (causing
condensation on outdoor equipment), and occasional
sandstorms;
(d) air quality: frequently dusty;
(e) maximum humidity: 100%;
(f) maximum ambient (air) temperatures:
• outdoor (shaded): 50˚C
• outdoor (unshaded): temperature rise due to solar
gain must be calculated for the relevant equipment
or the maximum ‘black bulb’ temperature may be
used (typically 10 ˚C above ambient temperature)
• indoor (not air conditioned): 40˚C
• indoor (air conditioned): 30˚C
[Note: in some situations the ambient temperature for indoor
non-air-conditioned situations may reach the outdoor shaded
temperature e.g. a small prefabricated building with little
ventilation, or a garage which is open to the atmosphere.]
Supply Intake
4.2.6 The use of Supply Intake rooms as storage rooms for any
tools, equipment or other materials is prohibited.
4.2.7 The Supply Intake must not be located on the reverse side
of a bathroom or kitchen wall, or below a bathroom or
kitchen. The Supply Intake must not be located below any 4
water services or pipes, such as mains water supply, storage
tanks, air conditioning chillers, or other liquids or hazardous
materials.
4.2.14 For large Installations the Supply Intake may consist of one
or more LV switchboards, the requirements for which are
given in Regulation 7.9.
Supply Intake
and lateral mains (cabling or busbars) which are connected
directly to the Supply Intake from the Distribution
Company. Rising and lateral mains will normally be
owned and operated by the building Owner on behalf of
all Customers in a Premises.
(a) overload;
(b) short-circuits (phase to phase or phase to Earth); and
(c) electric shock (due to Direct or Indirect Contact with
electricity).
Direct contact
Protection
(d) Protective Extra-Low Voltage (PELV) system.
[Note: SELV conductors at voltages of 12 V a.c. or 30 V d.c. may
be un-insulated but must be provided with overload and short
circuit protection.]
5
5.3.2 Residual Current Devices with a residual current rating of
30 mA and complying with BS EN 61008 and BS 4293 may
be used as a means of supplementary protection against
Direct Contact. However, RCDs may not be used as the
sole means of protection against Direct Contact i.e. one
of items (a) to (d) above must be used in addition to RCD
protection.
[Note: RCD devices with a residual current rating above 30 mA
are not considered to provide adequate protection against Direct
Contact but may be used to provide protection against Indirect
Contact – see Regulation 5.4. It should be noted that RCD devices
do not protect against electric shock between phase conductors
or between phase conductors and neutral.]
Protection
performance characteristic complying with BS EN 61008
and BS 4293. This requires that the device must operate within
200 milliseconds at its residual current rating and within
40 milliseconds at 5 times its residual current rating. It
must not operate below 50% of its residual current rating,
see Guidance Note G5(a). 5
5.4.4 For Final Circuits which are liable to carry pulsating or d.c.
currents RCD devices must be of type A (pulsating d.c.
sensitivity) and for RCD devices requiring time-delayed
operation type S devices must be used, see Guidance
Note G5(d).
Protection
Company. In these cases the requirements for an Earthed
Equipotential Bonded System must be met for the relevant
Circuits, see Regulation 5.5.
Protection
5.5.8 It is not necessary to provide Equipotential Bonding for
standalone metallic items which:
(a) do not pose any risk of providing a conductive path to
Earth (are isolated from Earth); or
5
(b) do not pose any risk of providing a conductive path to
any other Earthed part of the Installation; or
(c) do not pose any risk of becoming live as a result of an
electrical fault in the Installation (i.e. are sufficiently
remote from any Circuit or Appliance); or
(d) are out of reach of any person.
[Note: such items may include metal doors, window frames,
inaccessible structural beams, small metallic fixings such as
screws and brackets, etc.]
Protection
5.6.8 Water heaters, air conditioning units, fan-coil units, motors
and other similar items must be provided with double pole
isolation (or 4 pole isolation for 3-phase items) to ensure safe
access for the purpose of maintenance and repair.
[Note: double pole isolation may be provided by a plug and 5
socket-outlet arrangement.]
5.7 Insulation
6.2.3 In all cases the neutral and Earth Conductors must be kept
separate and not connected together at the MET or at any
other point in the Customer’s Installation.
Earthing
distance from the Supply Intake.
6.4.7 Metallic service pipes (such as water, gas, etc) must not be
used as Earth Electrodes.
Earthing
6.5.6 The connection of Earth Conductors to the Main Earthing
Terminal must be made using purpose made lugs or other
fixings and the connection must be clearly labelled as shown
in Appendix A5(d).
6.6 Exposed-metallic-parts
6.7.1 The Earth Fault Loop Impedance (Zs) is defined as the total
impedance presented to an earth fault current, comprising
the impedance of the following parts of a system, illustrated
in Appendix A5(g):
Earthing
(a) the Circuit Earth Conductor (including the Appliance
Earth Conductor);
(b) the Main Earth Terminal;
(c) the main Earth Conductors connecting to local Earth
Electrodes (TT system) or the Distribution Company 6
Earth (TN-S system);
(d) the path of earth fault current through the general
mass of Earth, or through the earth sheath or
armouring of the Distribution Company cable;
(e) in the case of a Customer Earthed System (TT system)
the neutral earth connection at the Distribution
Company transformer;
(f) the distribution transformer winding; and
(g) the phase conductors of the Circuit back to the point
of fault.
6.7.2 All Installations must be designed and tested such that the
Earth Fault Loop Impedance at any point in the Installation
is of a sufficient value to operate Protective Devices within
0.4 seconds for Final Circuits supplying Appliances which
Earthing
6.9.3 Equipment which produces high earth leakage currents
(above 10 mA) may be provided with a Functional Earth
and in any case must be provided with duplicate Circuit
Earth Conductors to the Main Earth Terminal. Such 6
equipment must remain connected to Earth at all times to
avoid the risk of electric shock from Exposed-Metallic-Parts
of the equipment.
[Note: metallic conduit may be considered as one of the duplicate
Earth Conductors required for high leakage equipment.
Alternatively, Circuit Earth Conductors in a Ring Circuit are also
accepted as providing a duplicate earth path. This requirement
safeguards against electric shock due to Indirect Contact if only
one Circuit Earth was provided and was damaged or broken.]
Components
7.2.1 All switches provided for local isolation of Appliances
and equipment (including lighting) must comply with
BS 3676. The rating of switches must be selected based
on the expected load, taking into account any capacitive or
inductive effects.
7.2.4 For areas with higher than normal risk of fire or explosion
gas-sealed switches must be used (BS 5345). For example, in
gas storage areas, battery rooms, etc.
7.3 Lighting
Components
7.3.5 High voltage discharge lighting (such as neon signs) must
comply with BS 559 and be provided with an emergency
isolation switch which must be clearly marked and located
in an easily accessible position.
[Note: such switches may be marked “Fireman’s Switch for Neon
Sign” or similar wording.]
7
7.3.6 The connection of mains-operated clocks to lighting
Circuits other than through a clock connector unit is
prohibited.
7.3.9 Luminaires and other light fittings must be installed with due
consideration to the weight taken by fixings and supports,
and the need for adequate ventilation and heat dissipation.
7.3.11 Where light switch boxes contain more than one phase (for
large groups of lighting) they must be labelled to indicate
the presence of a 400 V supply, and suitable phase barriers
should be provided inside the box.
7.4.1 All plastic conduit and trunking must comply with BS 4607
and be suitable for the ambient conditions expected.
Components
subject to higher than normal temperatures or fire risk
(e.g. near industrial machinery, generator rooms,
workshops, petrol stations, etc). Where plastic conduit is
installed outdoors it should be suitable for exposure to solar
radiation.
Components
7.4.20 The maximum number of cables for typical sizes of conduit
and trunking are given in Appendix A9.
7.5 Cables
7.5.9 Cables for meter tails (at 230 V) shall be single-core, PVC
insulated, with oversheath, and comply with BS 6004.
Components
7.5.12 Other than as allowed under clause 7.5.15, all cables that
are not armoured, or that do not have a metallic sheath
or screen, must be installed in plastic or metal conduit or
trunking throughout their entire length.
7.5.19 Cables must not be installed in lift shafts other than those
serving lift functions.
[Note: although a lift shaft may be a convenient means of
providing a cable route through a building this creates
unwarranted risk when accessing such Circuits for maintenance
and also provides a vulnerable route for the propagation of
fire.]
Components
operation, or those of importance for safety or other priority
functions within a Premises. Examples include main water
pumps, air conditioning units, water heaters, room heating,
fire or intruder alarms, cookers and ovens, etc.
7.6.3 Ring Circuits should be provided to areas within a
property which can be most economically served by several 7
Appliances sharing the same cable feed, arranged in a loop,
from one circuit-breaker on the Final Distribution Board.
This is particularly suitable where Appliances are expected
to operate at diverse times of the day. Ring Circuits would
typically be installed in bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens
(except major Appliances such as cookers), partitioned
office areas, etc.
7.7.2 Busways, bus ducts and busbar risers shall comply with the
relevant reference standards given in Appendix A3.
7.7.3 Busways, bus ducts and busbar risers shall be totally enclosed
(non-perforated) for protection against mechanical damage,
moisture, dust and other environmental effects.
7.7.4 Busways, bus ducts and busbar risers shall not be located
in areas prone to mechanical damage or where they may
be exposed to hazardous materials, liquids or gases, unless
special precautions are taken.
7
7.7.5 Busways, bus ducts and busbar risers shall be located so
that they are accessible for future maintenance and repair
throughout their length. They shall not be installed in
habitable areas such as flats, offices, shops, etc (a separate
riser shaft or room must be provided).
7.7.6 Busways, bus ducts and busbar risers shall have neutral
conductors of equal size to the phase conductors and shall
have a dedicated Earth Conductor. The use of the metal
casing as an Earth Conductor permitted only for Earth
Leakage Protected Installations, and with the prior approval
of the Distribution Company.
7.7.7 The current rating of busways, bus ducts and busbar risers
shall be based on the Diversified Load of the relevant part
of the Installation being supplied, with allowance made
for future load growth where appropriate. Diversity factors
must be justified and submitted with the design for approval
by the Distribution Company, see Regulation 3.2 and
Guidance Note G2.
Components
for a high-rise building and the number of floors served by
each must be selected by taking due account of the future
accessibility, maintainability and safety of the system, whilst
limiting the extent of power outage to serviced areas.
[Note: a typical arrangement may be to serve each 10 floors
of a 30 storey building by a separate bus riser; however, other
arrangements are not precluded.] 7
7.8.5 Each Distribution Board must have an Earth bar which has
a means of connection to the incoming Earth Conductor
and cable gland of the incoming cable, see Appendix A5(e)
and A12(c).
Components
7.8.9 Single-phase Distribution Boards may be permitted in a
Premises where adequate provision is made for balancing
the total load at the Supply Intake between the three
phases.
[Note: single-phase Distribution Boards would normally be used
for small load applications such as hotel rooms, garages, small 7
out buildings.]
7.9 LV switchboards
Components
coupler circuit-breaker or switch must be interlocked to
prevent its closure when both incoming supply cables are
live. Bus switches and circuit-breakers must be capable
of closure onto a fault unless interlocked so as to only be
operated whilst dead.
Internal External
Installation Installation
Non-domestic
3 years 3 years
(commercial, industrial, farms, etc)
Special locations
1 year 1 year
(construction sites, swimming
pools and fountains, street lighting)
Inspection
8.2.2 Electrical Installations which were constructed before the
date of commencement of these Regulations (clause 1.1.2)
shall be inspected and tested within the time indicated
above from the date of commencement.
(a) Earth;
(b) any Earthed Metallic Part of another system or
Extraneous-Metallic-Part; or
(c) an Earth Conductor of any system.
Special Locations
the requirement for Earth Leakage Protection on Final
Circuits, along with back-up earth fault protection at the
Supply Intake must be met. Earthed Equipotential Bonding
and Supplementary Equipotential Bonding are required
where back-up earth fault protection is not provided, even
where RCD protection has been provided at the Final
Distribution board supplying the bathroom or similar
location.
9
Special Locations
(d) particular attention should be given to the location,
signing and protection of equipment where the public
may have access, in particular children;
(e) equipment should be located and adequate notices
displayed so that emergency disconnection of the
electricity supply can be effected without delay.
Locking arrangements should be such that these can
be removed in an emergency (e.g. panic bar or keys
available in break-out box); 9
(f) the requirements for periodic inspection and testing
must be strictly complied with (Regulation 8.2); and
(g) an Earth Leakage Protected System must be provided
in line with Regulation 5.4. In addition, outdoor
10.1.6 For induction motors, the capacitor rating must not exceed
90% of the no-load reactive power of the motor.
[Note: this is required in order to avoid the high overvoltage
across the terminals due to the occurrence of self excitation on
run-down condition of the motor.]
10.2.10 A capacitor bank shall not be a part of the motor control Capacitors and Motors
centre, main LV panel or sub-main panel, but it shall be
accommodated in a separate cubicle.
10
1 HP to 5 HP 5 x full-load current
10
10
A5. Earthing
(a) Distribution company earthed system (TN-S) 125
(b) Customer earthed system (TT) 126
(c) Distribution company earthed system with
additional earth (TN-S-TT) 127
(d) Earth electrode pit and standard labels 128
(e) Main earth terminal (MET) at main
distribution board (MDB) 129
(f) Main earth conductors (MEC) and circuit earth
conductors (CEC) 130
(g) Components of earth fault loop impedance 131
(h) Earth fault loop impendance values required for
MCBs (at 230 V) 132
(i) Resistance per metre of copper conductors for
calculation of R1+R2 133
(j) Sizing of earth conductors and equipotential
bonding conductors 134
(k) Minimum number of earth electrodes 136
(l) Mandatory connections to earth
conductors 137
A Amps or Amperes
A1
ACB Air Circuit Breaker
a.c. alternating current
a/c air conditioning
ADWEA Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority
ASTA The Association of Short-circuit Testing Authorities
(UK)
BS British Standard
BS EN British Standard which has been published under
the European Normalisation procedure
BSI British Standards Institute
CB Circuit-Breaker
CCP Customer Connection Point (see definitions)
CEC Circuit Earth Conductor (see definitions)
CPC Circuit Protective Conductor (see definition for
CEC)
d.c. direct current
ECC Earth Continuity Conductor (see definition for
CEC)
EEB Earthed Equipotential Bonding (see definitions)
EEBS Earthed Equipotential Bonded System (see
definitions)
E/F Earth Fault (protective device)
ELCB Earth Leakage Circuit-Breaker (see definitions)
ELP Earth Leakage Protection (see definitions)
ELV Extra-Low Voltage (see definitions)
EN European Normalisation standard document
ELPS Earth Leakage Protected System (see definitions)
ESMA Emirates Standardisation & Metrology Authority
Books:
A2
(1) Requirements for Electrical Installations (BS 7671: 2001)
The Institution of Engineering and Technology (formerly the
Institution of Electrical Engineers)
Regulations:
Reference Papers:
Components BS IEC A3
Cables
Power & lighting (70˚C PVC,
6004 502
thermoplastic)
Power and lighting (90˚C rubber,
6007, 7889
thermosetting)
Mineral insulated (copper-clad) 6207 702
Flexible cables & cords (domestic) 6500 227
Flexible cables & cords (industrial) 7919 245
Flexible cables (high temperature) 6141
Armoured cables (70˚C PVC,
6346
thermoplastic)
Low smoke (90˚C rubber, 7486, 7211,
thermosetting) 6724, 7629
Armoured cables (90˚C rubber,
5467
thermosetting)
Switchgear and control wiring 6231
Flexible cables for lifts 6977
Cable glands, crimp connectors 6121, 4579
Conduits & trunking
4568, 60423*,
Steel 423, 614
50086*, 31
PVC 4607
Flexible Steel 731
Cable tray 61537*
Trunking 4678
Electrical accessories
General 5733
Ceiling roses 67
Cooker Control Units 4177
A3 Components BS IEC
Accessories continued...
Household Appliances 3456, 60355*
546, 196, 1363,
Plugs & Socket-outlets (domestic)
4573
Plugs & Socket-outlets (industrial) 4343, 60309*
Switches (domestic) 3676, 60669*
Lighting 4533, 60598*
Emergency lighting 5266
Signs and discharge lighting 559
3535, 60742*,
Isolating (safety) transformers
61558*
LV switchgear & assemblies
General 60439*, 5486 439
Contactors & motor starters 60947* 947
Circuit-Breakers (MCB, MCCB) 60898*, 3871 898
4293, 61008*,
Circuit-Breakers (RCD, RCBO) 755
61009*
88, 1361,
Fuses
60269*
Busbar trunking systems 60439-2 439-2
General
Fire / combustibility test 476, 6458
Degrees of protection & ingress 60529* 529
Assemblies for construction Sites 4363 364-7-704
5345, 60079*,
Hazardous areas
50014*, 5501
Lightning protection 6651
Earthing 7430, 951, 4444 364-5-54
Wiring diagram symbols 60617*
Identification and marking of the
60446*
man-machine interface
Note: 1: British Standards marked with an asterix * are also issued as European
Standards under the same number (labelled as BS EN). A3
Note: 2: For compliance requirements under the Regulations see clause 3.1.2 and
3.1.4.
Note: 3: Reference standards for capacitors are given under Regulation 10.2
Note 1: The requirement for Earth Leakage Protection was introduced in Abu
Dhabi Emirate in 2001 by implementation of the Earth Leakage Protection
Regulations (issued by the Bureau). The Electricity Wiring Regulations
reiterate this same requirement and replace the ELP Regulations.
The Regulation and Supervision Bureau shall have the duty to exercise
its functions under this Law in the manner which it considers best
calculated to –
(1) ensure the security of the supply of water and electricity in the
Emirate;
(2) ensure the connection and supply of water and electricity to all
consumers on reasonable demand;
Regulations made pursuant to Article (62) of this Law may be made for
the following purposes, namely to –
(2) protect the general public from danger related to electrical and
water works and installations;
(8) ensure water and electricity fittings installed and used by persons
to whom water and electricity are to be supplied are safe; and
(3) require plans, maps etc to be kept and made available for
inspection and copying;
(4) relieve the Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Company and
classes of licensed operators specified in the regulations
from obligations to supply water and electricity in specified
circumstances;
1
Article 68 relates to Street Works and Access Regulations
(13) forbid the use or installation of fittings which have not been
approved;
The court with the appropriate jurisdiction shall hear disputes relating
to regulations made under Article (62) of this Law.
Subject to Article (107) of this Law, where the Regulation and Supervision
Bureau is satisfied that a licensed operator is contravening or is likely to
contravene any condition of its licence, the Regulation and Supervision
Bureau shall as soon as practicable by a final order make such provision
as appears to the Regulation and Supervision Bureau to be requisite so
as to secure compliance with that condition.
Article 12
The Bureau, when performing its functions and duties under this Law,
is committed to execute in its best ways, functions that achieve the
following:
(6) Take account of people with special needs who can be threatened
by lack of potable water or unavailability of electricity, whether
it was a cost or supply method of water and electricity, or
through use of devices and installations.
Article (13)
Paragraphs (1), (4), (6), (7) and (8) of Article (55) of Law No. (2) of 1998,
shall be replaced by the following paragraphs:
Article (15)
"In consultation with the Authority" in Article (62) of Law No. (2) of
1998, is replaced by "in consultation with who sees appropriate".
Article (16)
A4(b)
Paragraphs (1), and (2) of Article (63) of Law No. (2) of 1998, is replaced
by the following two paragraphs:
(2) Protect the general public from danger resulted from electricity,
water and wastewater works and installations.
Article (17)
Provisions of Paragraphs (2), and (4), and (14) of Article (65) of Law No.
(2) of 1998, is replaced by the following paragraphs:
Article (18)
A5(a)
[ see Regulation 6.2 ]
Distribution Distribution
Company Network
Transformer Conductors
L1
L2
L3
N
E
Earth fault
Main Earth in Appliance
Earth fault current
Terminal
L1
L2
L3
N
E
Transformer
Neutral Point Earth
Earth fault
A in Appliance
Earth fault current
Main Earth
Terminal
Customer’s
Earth Electrode
Insulated cable
gland
L1
L2
L3
N
E
Earth fault current
Transformer
Neutral Point Earth
Earth fault
A in Appliance
Earth fault current
Main Earth
Terminal
Customer’s
Earth Electrode
A5(d)
A5(e)
Circuit
Earth Conductors
for sub-main CEC To SDB1
circuits
To SDB2
A Main Circuit
Breaker
MET
Neutral Bar
MEC to Customer
Earth Electrode Earth connection
to metal door
Earth conductor
A
labels at MET
Test Link
CUSTOMER
EARTH ELECTRODE
DISTRIBUTION
COMPANY EARTH
B
Distribution
Company Earth
Final
Distribution
CEC to fixed Appliance
Board
Earth
Bar
CEC in metal or
plastic conduit
MEC
Main
Distribution
Board
CEC in appliance
Main Earth
flexible cord
Terminal Functional Earth
(see clause 6.9.2)
MEC
Main Earth
Conductor to
Earth Electrode
Distribution
Company Earth
Note: Common terminology (outside these Regulations) includes CPC (Circuit Protective Conductor)
and ECC (Earth Continuity Conductor ) in place of CEC illustrated above.
[ see Regulation 6.2 ]
1 N
5
L
E
2
4 MET 3 Earth fault
Main Earth in Appliance
Terminal
Note 1: The above values are given for conductor temperatures of 70˚C. As
measurements are normally taken at room temperature the measured
values must be approximately 20% less than tabulated above.
Note 2: The above values are used as an alternative to calculating the disconnection
time for each specific situation. i.e. MCBs will operate in the instantaneous
mode if the Earth Fault Loop Impedance value is kept below the above
levels. For EFL Impedance values higher than shown above it is still
possible to comply with the requirement of 0.4 s disconnection for Circuits
accessible to persons, and 5 s for other Circuits (clause 5.5.2) if a check is
made against the manufacturer’s time-current performance chart.
1.0 18.1
1.5 12.1
2.5 7.41
4.0 4.61
6.0 3.08
10.0 1.83
16.0 1.15
25.0 0.73
Note: To allow for the increase in resistance with increased temperature under
fault conditions these values must be multiplied by 1.2 for PVC insulated
cables.
S S/2
S <= 16 (not less than 2.5 (not less than 4 or
see note 2) 6, see note 3)
16 < S <= 35 16 10
S/4
S > 35 S/2
(but not exceeding 25)
Note 1: For Main Earth Conductors between Earth Electrodes and the Main Earth
Terminal of an Installation, S should be taken as the cross-sectional area of
the conductors of the incoming supply cable. For other Earth Conductors
S should be taken as the cross-sectional area of the circuit phase
conductors.
60/100 1 16
200 1 50
300 1 50
400 1 70
500 2 70
600 2 70
800 2 70
1000 2 70
1600 2 70
2000 2 150
2500 2 150
Note 1: Standard earth electrode diameters are 9 mm, 12.5 mm or 15 mm for
copper-clad steel, or 16 mm for stainless steel. Standard lengths are
1.2 m or 1.5 m (see also BS 7430).
Switchgear: exposed-metallic-parts
(frame, door etc)
Luminaires: exposed-metallic-parts
Note 1: The earthing of cover plates should not rely solely on the connection
of fixing screws to an earthed mounting box (due to the possibility
of poor connections, corrosion etc); a short flexible Earth Conductor
should be connected between the mounting box and the plate.
See Guidance Note G7(d).
13 A switched-socket outlets 30
Water heaters 30
Note 1: where two values are indicated the higher value is allowed only where the
equipment is not normally accessible to any person.
Note 2: all Final Circuits in a bathroom (including lighting, but excluding FCUs in
a ceiling void) must be provided with 30 mA RCD protection. See clause
9.3.2(a).
Note 3: where a circuit supplies more than one type of equipment the lower value
must be used for RCD protection (e.g. a circuit supplying bedroom lighting A5(m)
and bathroom lighting must be protected by a 30 mA RCD).
Note 4: the selection of ELP devices at main switchboards must take into account
the requirement for discrimination with downstream protective devices
(clause 5.4.5 and 5.4.6). For small supplies (200A or less) a 300mA
RCD device may be used, with time delay of 200ms. For larger supplies
(above 200A) earth fault relays may be used in conjunction with MCCBs
(e.g. 1A, 3A, 5A with time delay up to 400ms) or ACBs with integral earth
fault setting. In the latter case the earth fault setting must trip the ACB
within 400ms, taking into account the Earth Fault Loop Impedance of the
installation.
The table opposite shows the required residual operating current values
for RCDs and other Earth Leakage Protection devices. These are
intended to provide for electric shock protection (Direct and Indirect
Contact), particularly in high-risk areas, as well as protection against
high resistance earth faults which may not operate overcurrent devices
and pose a risk of overheating or fire, see Regulation 5.4.
All Final Circuits where Appliances may be used by any person must
be provided with Earth Leakage Protection (clause 5.3.5 ) and back-
up Earth Leakage Protection must be provide at the main Supply
intake for Installations classed as an Earth Leakage Protected System,
see Regulation 5.4.
A6(a)
2 HRS
1 HR
1,000
100
OPERATING TIME IN SECONDS
10
1.0
0.1
0.001
1 3 5 10 20 100 1,000
6A
10 A
16 A
20 A
25 A
32 A
40 A
50 A
63 A
80 A
100 A
125 A
10 000 Time / current characteristics for Type B
circuit-breakers to BS EN 60898
and RCBOs to BS EN 61009
Current for time 0.1 sec to 5 secs
Rating Current
1000
6A 30 A
10 A 50 A
16 A 80 A
20 A 100 A
100
25 A 125 A
32 A 160 A
40 A 200 A
50 A 250 A
10 63 A 315 A
80 A 400 A
100 A 500 A
125 A 625 A
TIME, SECONDS
1
141
A6(b)
A6(c)
142
A6(c) Time-current characteristic of Type C MCBs
6A
10 A
16 A
20 A
25 A
32 A
40 A
50 A
63 A
80 A
100 A
125 A
10 000 Time / current characteristics for Type C
circuit-breakers to BS EN 60898
and RCBOs to BS EN 61009
Current for time 0.1 sec to 5 secs
Rating Current
1000
6A 60 A
10 A 100 A
16 A 160 A
20 A 200 A
100
25 A 250 A
32 A 320 A
40 A 400 A
50 A 500 A
10 63 A 630 A
80 A 800 A
100 A 1000 A
125 A 1250 A
TIME, SECONDS
1
6A
10 A
16 A
20 A
25 A
32 A
40 A
50 A
63 A
80 A
100 A
125 A
10 000 Time / current characteristics for Type D
circuit-breakers to BS EN 60898
and RCBOs to BS EN 61009
Current for time 0.1 sec to 5 secs
Rating Current
1000
6A 120 A
10 A 200 A
16 A 320 A
20 A 400 A
100
25 A 500 A
32 A 640 A
40 A 800 A
50 A 1000 A
10 63 A 1260 A
80 A 1600 A
100 A 2000 A
125 A 2500 A
TIME, SECONDS
1
143
A6(d)
A6(e) Typical energy let-through
characteristics of MCBs
A6(e)
105
50&63A
2.5mm2
40A
I2t energy let-through in A2s 32A
(50Hz sine wave) 20A
one complete 1/2 cycle 16A
10A
1.5mm2
TOTAL LET-THROUGH ENERGY (I2t)
6A
1.0mm2
104
103
0.1 1.0 10 16 100.0
Ring Circuit to
32 2 x 4.0 48 (9.3) 41.7 (8.1)
socket-outlets
Radial Circuit to
41.0 35.7
32 6.0 large Appliance
(8.0) (7.0)
(e.g. cooker)
Radial Circuit to
57.0 49.6
40 10.0 machinery (e.g.
(11.1) (9.7)
chiller unit)
Note 1: cable ratings are taken from Appendix A7(a), assuming one circuit in
conduit, with temperature correction factors applied from Appendix A7(g).
Power factor of 0.85 is assumed to calculate kW ratings at 230V.
Note 2: selection of MCBs for overload protection of cables must take account
of the device characteristics given in Appendix A6(b) to A6(d). These are
based on minimum MCB operating currents of 1.45 times the MCB nominal
rating (In) and a maximum 'non-tripping' current of 1.15 times In. Hence,
cables must be selected with ratings at least 1.15 times the MCB nominal
rating (see IEE Guidance Note 6 - section 2).
A6(g)
15 plate Moving
arc chamber contact
Fixed
Thermo-metal contact
element
Calibration
mechanism
Operating
handle
Standard cable ratings and Voltage drop for single core, PVC (70˚C
A7(a) thermoplastic), non-armoured, stranded copper conductor (BS 6004
and BS 6346), with or without sheath, installed in buried or surface
conduit or trunking.
2.5 19.5 18 24 21 18 15
4.0 26 24 32 28 11 9.5
10 46 42 57 50 4.4 3.8
16 61 56 76 68 2.8 2.4
25 80 73 101 89 - -
35 99 89 125 110 - -
Note 2: For voltage drop for cables above 25 mm2 refer to BS 7671.
Standard cable ratings and voltage drop for PVC (70˚C thermoplastic)
multi-core cables (sheathed), non-armoured, stranded copper conductor A7(b)
(BS 6004), installed in buried or surface mounted conduit or trunking,
or on exposed, perforated cable tray.
On perforated
In conduit on wall Clipped direct
Cross cable tray or in
or in concrete to a wall
sectional free air
(A) (A)
area (A)
(mm²)
2 core 3 or 4 2 core 3 or 4 2 core 3 or 4
core core core
2.5 23 20 27 24 30 25
4 30 27 36 32 40 34
6 38 34 46 41 51 43
10 52 46 63 57 70 60
16 69 62 85 76 94 80
Voltage drop
1.0 1.5 2.5 4 6 10 16
(mV/A/m)
Note 1: For voltage drop for cables above 16 mm² refer to BS 7671.
Standard cable ratings and Voltage drop for multi-core armoured, PVC
(70˚C thermoplastic) cables, stranded copper conductor (BS 6346 and A7(c)
BS 5467), installed exposed (clipped to a wall) or on perforated cable
tray.
Note 2: For voltage drop for cables above 16 mm² refer to BS 7671.
Standard cable ratings and voltage drop for mineral insulated copper-
clad cables installed on a wall (clipped direct). PVC sheathed cable A7(e)
assumes 70˚C sheath temperature, bare copper-clad cable assumes
105˚C sheath temperature.
2 x single
3 x single
3 core
area
Note 1: For MICC cable installed in perforated cable tray the current rating is
approximately 5 - 10% greater than shown above, see BS 7671 table 4J1A
and 4J2A.
Note 2: Where the sheath temperature may be above 70˚C care should be taken that
the cable is not within reach of any person or in contact with combustible
materials.
Standard current ratings and voltage drop for flexible cords, 60˚C
A7(f) conductor temperature (PVC or rubber insulated), stranded copper
conductors to BS 6500 (domestic applications).
0.5 3 3 93 80 2
0.75 6 6 62 54 3
1.0 10 10 46 40 5
1.25 13 - 37 - 5
1.5 16 16 32 27 5
2.5 25 20 19 16 5
4.0 32 25 12 10 5
Method of installation
Horizontal
Touching
Touching
surface
Spaced
Spaced
Vertical
2 0.80 0.85 0.94 0.86 0.91 0.90 0.85
3 0.70 0.79 0.90 0.81 0.89 0.85 -
4 0.65 0.75 0.90 0.77 0.88 - -
5 0.60 0.73 0.90 0.75 0.87 - -
6 0.57 0.72 0.90 0.74 0.87 - -
7 0.54 0.72 0.90 0.73 - - -
8 0.52 0.71 0.90 0.73 - - -
9 0.50 0.70 0.90 0.72 - - -
10 0.48 - 0.90 0.71 - - -
12 0.45 - 0.90 0.70 - - -
14 0.43 - 0.90 - - - -
16 0.41 - 0.90 - - - -
18 0.39 - 0.90 - - - -
20 0.38 - 0.90 - - - -
Conductor Colour A8
Non-flexible fixed wiring and all three-phase cables:
Phase 1 Red
Phase 2 Yellow
Phase 3 Blue
Neutral Black
Phase 1 Brown
Neutral Blue
1.5 7 12 -
2.5 5 9 12
4.0 3 6 9
6.0 - 5 8
10.0 - 3 6
16.0 - - 4
25.0 - - 3
Note: For cable trays and trunking the space factor (total cross-sectional area of
cables compared with the interior cross-sectional area of trunking) must
not exceed 50%.
0 No protection 0 No protection
3 Objects > 2.5mm (e.g. tools or 3 Sprays of water < 60˚ from
wires) vertical
7 Temporary immersion
8 Total immersion
Fuse
Link
A11
Symbol Description
A12(a)
A12(b)
Main
Copy of Installation
Distribution
Certificate and
Wiring Diagram Board
Meters
13A socket
outlet Capacitor
bank
Main Supply
Cable
Main Earth
Conductor
Main cable
pulling pit
600 x 600
Note : the above rooms sizes are given for guidance and other
requirements for access and safety should be taken into account
(see Regulation 3.5)
Main
Earth
Terminal
Main
Isolator
RCD 1 RCD 2
100mA 30mA
Neutral
Bar
“earth tail’
RCD Operation & Test for door
Customer Notice
buried conduits
This Distribution Board is fitted
with Residual Current Devices
(RCDs) which will detect any fault
current to earth and switch off the
device. Note this Distribution Board
is fitted with ____ number RCDs. If
the device will not switch on after
RCD Operation Label
tripping consult a licensed electrical
contractor or your local Electricity [ see clause 5.4.8 ]
Supply Company.
A12(d)
Outgoing Emergency light
busbar risers (2 hour battery)
min 0.75 m
Outgoing circuits
HRC
fuses
min 0.75 m
DB
rear clearance OF
RO
OR
LO
NDF B
2 SD
OR
LO
TF
1S SDB
ER
OM capacitor bank
INC automatic
control panel
min 1.5 m
front clearance
Incoming cables
from Distribution Company
Transformer
Note
Note:: LV Switchroom
LV Switchroom to be
to be sized sized to accommodate
to accomodate the number
the number of panels of panels required
required
(including spare positions)
(including with minimum
spare positions) withaccess clearances
minimum shown
access above. show above.
clearances
Headroom clearance should be sufficient to allow safe access for operation,
maintenance and repairs in compliance with clause 3.5.9.
A13
FDB
Customer
Connection
Point
Meter
LV Feeder Pillar MDB FDB
A14
Flex outlet to
fixed appliance
Spur socket-outlet
To
Final
Distribution
Board
15A BS 546
socket-outlets
(non-domestic
premises only)
Kitchen:
A16
Min. 1.0 m
Min from sink
1.3m
Cooker
control unit
450mm
or
300mm
Flex
outlet
Note: Mounting height may be varied for special circumtances such as access for disabled
persons or children, etc.
[ see clause 7.1.7 , 7.2.5 and 7.1.9 ]
Min. 100mm
from worktop
(non-domestic
only)
Prohibited CEE7/7
EE7/7 ‘shuko’ plug and socket
A17(b)
A17(c)
230V 230V
115V
Isolating transformer
complying with BS 3535
shavers only
A18(a)
Earth fault
Earth fault
A18(b)
Dummy (plastic)
earth pin
Live conductors
are double insulated
or enclosed in plastic case
Unearthed metallic
part (see note)
Plastic Case
Live conductors
are double insulated
or enclosed in plastic case
Note: Metallic parts of Class II appliances are sufficiently remote from live
conductors so as not to require a connection to earth.
A18(c)
N
E
overcurrent protection
A18(d)
230V
max 50V a.c.
or 120V d.c.
A18(e)
55V
230V
110V
55V
A19(a)
Red
Yellow
P Green
E
5 - 10m 5 - 10m
Earthed
Electrode Auxilliary
under test Earth Spikes
ION
CONNECT
EARTH
SAFETY T REM
OVE
DO NO
MCCB MCCB
+ +
E/F E/F
Main Earth
Terminal
Main Earthed
Equipotential Bonding
To Earth Electrode
A Earth Bar
Test Link removed
and Earth Electrode
Connection removed
Notes:
1. Caution: this test is carried out under live conditions but with the main isolator secured in the
off position.
2. Ze may be measured directly at the Supply Intake with a specialist Earth Loop Impedance
tester. Such devices apply a resistance (typically 10 ohms) between a phase conductor and
the earth conductor of the incoming supply. The test draws a current of around 20A but is
only applied for a few cycles (e.g. 40ms). The device measures the drawn current and
divides this into the measured supply voltage to give the loop impedance (the test resistance
applied by the device is subtracted).
3. As an alternative Ze may be calculated from measurement of the total earth fault loop
impedance measured within the installation (see A19c) using the formula:
ZS = Ze + ZR1+R2
Where:
Zs = total Earth Fault Loop Impedance
Ze = Distribution Company supply impedance
ZR1+R2 = impedance of the longest circuit in the Installation, taken by measuring a circuit
phase conductor impedance R1, and the same circuit’s Earthing Conductor impedance
R2.
4. For further advice see reference book “ Advanced Testing Technique”.
A19(c)
R
Y
B
R
Y
B
RCD RCD
CECs remain
connected
to switch
(must be ON)
from
FDB
Bonding Conductors
to Test
Earth Electrode Instrument
to light
(bulb removed from pendant)
Notes:
1. Caution: this test is carried out under live conditions with the circuits under test energised but
no load is connected. The Main Earth Conductor to the local earth electrode (if any) is
disconnected and the Main Equipotential Bonding Conductors are also disconnected.
2. A specialist instrument is used which measures the total Earth Loop Impedance Zs using a
similar principle as described in A19(b). The instrument must not operate any RCD in circuit.
3. The instrument may be directly connected to a socket-outlet (using the test plug provided) and
should be used at the farthest point on a radial circuit or the mid point of a ring circuit.
Alternatively, the instrument may be used at an accessory connection point (e.g. lighting ceiling
rose) with the appropriate test probes.
4. For further advice see reference book “Testing Electrical Installations”.
A19(d)
Final DB A
R
Y
B
R
Y
B
Neutral Bar
R
Y
B
B
Test Instrument
Earth Bar
Notes:
1. This test is carried out on dead circuits. The main isolator must be secured in the off position.
2. Circuit continuity tests must be measured for all circuits and the resistance values recorded
on the test report, see Appendix A20(d). Alternative methods are illustrated as above.
3. Method A tests the combined phase and earth resistance (R1 + R2) for each circuit by
shorting together the two conductors at the distribution board, and measuring from the
terminals of the farthest connection point or socket-outlet. For ring circuits the two phase
and earth conductors from the ring are cross connected as illustrated above.
4. In method B a shorting cable is applied between the neutral and earth bar at the distribution
board. Measurement at any connection point gives a value Rn + R2 (neutral conductor
resistance + circuit earth conductor) which approximates to R1 + R2.
A19(e)
To Final To switch
DB (must be ON)
To Light holder
Final DB
to Test
Device
OFF
A
Notes:
1. This test is carried out on dead circuits. The main isolator must be secured in the OFF
position.
2. The polarity test is required to confirm that all single pole devices, and lamp holders with an
outer neutral contact (i.e. ES screw type) are correctly connected
3. Single pole devices ( eg. light switches ) must only be connected in the live conductor.
4. The test is carried out by measuring continuity between the earth terminal and live terminal
at an accessory such as an ES pendant light fitting , after a shorting cable has been applied
between the relevant phase conductor and earth bar at the Final Distribution Board.
6. A final test should be made between the neutral bar and Earth; if a reading
of less than 2 M ohm is observed, then each neutral conductor should be
tested separately to Earth.
Note 1: Safety precautions must be observed during testing, including locking off
isolators and switches, safeguarding against contact with test voltages,
replacement of test links and removal of tools after completion. The order of
test sequence must be observed, in particular testing of Earth Conductors
(dangerous test voltages can appear on the installation metalwork if Earth
Conductors are inadvertently disconnected or broken).
Note 2: testing of RCDs must include measurement of the operating time (ms) at In
and at 5 x In, as well as check of non-operation at 50% x In.
Supply Characteristics:
Earthing System: (TT, TN-S, TN-S-TT); .........………… Earth Electrode(s )Resistance: ............………
Incoming Cable Size & Type: .........………… Earth Electrode(s) Location: ............………
Main CB type & rating: .........………… Main Earth Conductor Size: ............………
Protective System (ELPS, EEBS); .........………… Earth Fault Loop Impedance: ............………
………………………..………..……
………………………………………………………………………….....
Supply Characteristics:
Earthing System: (TT, TN-S, TN-S-TT); .........……… Earth Electrode(s) Resistance: ............………..
Incoming Cable Size & Type: .........……… Earth Electrode(s) Location: ............………..
Main CB type & rating: .........……… Main Earth Conductor Size: ............………..
Protective System (ELPS, EEBS): .........……… Earth Fault Loop Impedance: ............………..
Any dangerous conditions or urgent work required (give details over leaf): No Yes
.......................................................................................
Distribution Cables (between DBs): .......................................................................................
.......................................................................................
Main Earth Leakage Protective
Device(s):
.......................................................................................
Circuit cables (where visible): .......................................................................................
Power factor correction equipment: .......................................................................................
Standby generation equipment: .......................................................................................
Power points & socket outlets: .......................................................................................
.......................................................................................
Internal Inspection of sample points (10% sample):
.......................................................................................
.......................................................................................
188
Installation testing report
Busbar CCT MCB Phase Earth Continuity Test Insulation Resistance Total Functional
section ref. rating & size (ohms) (M ohms) Earth Test
No. (A) Neutral mm2 Loop
size Circuit name Remarks
R1 R2 Ring L-L Live-Earth Impen- RCD Other
Polarity
Incomer
2 ance time
mm + R2
see note 1 see note 1 (zs) (ms)
Note1: for L-L or L-E insulation resistance tests enter the lowest value measured for either R-Y, Y-B, R-B.
Load distribution schedule
Project/Building Name: ..................................................... Main Contractor: ...............................................................
Address/Location: ............................................................. Electrical Contractor: ........................................................
Distribution Board No./Ref: ............................................... Incoming Cable size / type: ............................................... Date: ...................................................
Fed from: ........................................................................... Main breaker type & rating: ............................................... Document No. .....................................
Incomer
RCD No. (A) mm2 R Y B
mm2 single) (kW)
R1
Y1
B1
R2
Y2
B2
R3
Section 1 ...........
Y3
B3
R4
Y4
B4
R5
Y5
B5
Section 2 .............
Y6
..........................................................................
B6
GROSS FLOOR = ........ sq m TOTAL CONNECTED LOAD = ...... kW
FLOOR AREA DIVERSIFIED LOAD = ......... W / sq m TOTAL DIVERSIFIED LOAD = ...... kW (%)
o
Notes: 1. Cable ratings taken at ...... C and ..... power factor, installed as single circuits in conduit
2. Cable rating must be above circuit Connected Load and at least 1.15 times MCB nominal rating
189
A20(e)
A20(f )
190
Load Distribution Schedule - sample
Project/Building Name: Mr Mubarak Al Hosni Villas Main Contractor: Sedmand Construction LLC...........
Address/Location: Sector ME-10 Plot C-96, Abu Dhabi Electrical Contractor: Al Ramal EC .........................
Distribution Board No./Ref: FDB-2 second floor apartment.......... Incoming Cable size / type: 4C x 16mm XLPE with SWA-earth Date: 4-7-08
Fed from: MDB-1 (intake room)........... Main breaker type & rating: 63A isolator + 2 RCD (see below) Document No. ARE-34-8.
Incomer
RCD No. (A) mm2 R Y B
mm2 single) (kW)
R1 6 1.5 1.5 17.5 (3.4) Lighting, bedrooms 1, 2, 3 10 0.1 1.0 0.75 0.75
Y1 6 1.5 1.5 17.5 (3.4) Lighting (fluorescent) - kitchen 10 0.05 0.50 0.75 0.38
B1 6 1.5 1.5 17.5 (3.4) Lighting - lounge (inc. chandelier 500W) 11 0.1/0.5 1.5 0.75 1.13
R2 6 1.5 1.5 17.5 (3.4) Smoke detectors 3 0.02 0.06 1.0 0.06
Y2 10 2.5 1.5 24.0 (4.7) FCU-1, FCU-2, FCU-3 3 0.6 1.8 0.9 1.62
B2 10 2.5 1.5 24.0 (4.7) FCU-4 1 1.6 1.6 0.9 1.44
Section 1-
R3 32 6.0 2.5 41.0 (8.0) Cooker 1 3.0 3.0 0.5 1.50
Y3 spare
63 A isolator
B4 6 1.5 1.5 17.5 (3.4) Lighting (fl) + shaver socket - bathrooms 1, 2 6 0.05 0.3 0.75 0.23
R5 32 2 x 4.0 2 x 2.5 48.0 (9.3) Socket-outlets - kitchen ring (inc. fridge) 3d + 1s 1.0 / 0.2 2.2 0.5 1.10
Y5 16 2.5 1.5 24.0 (4.7) Socket-outlets: maid's room + corridor 1d + 2s 1.0 / 0.2 1.6 0.5 0.80
Section 2 -
R6 16 2.5 1.5 24.0 (4.7) Flex outlet – washing machine 1 1.5 1.5 0.5 0.75
o
Notes: 1. Cable ratings taken at 30 C and 0.85 power factor, installed as single circuits in conduit
2. Cable rating must be above circuit Connected Load and at least 1.15 times MCB nominal rating
Guidance notes
G3. Photographs
(a) Photograph of busbar riser 198
(b) Photograph of final distribution
(horizontal DIN rail with 'comb' bus-bar) 199
(c) Photograph of final distribution board
(vertical, split busbar type) 200
Typical
diversity factor
Type of load Assumed connected load
G2 [see notes 3
and 7]
Note 1: the Connected Load values shown above are based on typical Appliances
and connection points. Specific site information should be used where
available.
Note 2: the Connected Load (and cable rating) for Circuits supplying socket-outlets
should be based on 1,000 W for the first socket-outlet, plus 200 W for the
remainder, where a double socket outlet is counted as 2 (e.g. circuit rating
for 5 x double socket-outlets = 1kW + 9 x 0.2kW = 2.8kW).
Note 3: typical diversity factors for domestic premises are shown above but the
designer may select a different value representing the intensity of usage
(e.g. higher value for high usage Circuits, such as communal kitchens,
lower value for lower occupancy dwellings, etc)
Note 4: additional diversity factors may be applied at Sub Distribution Boards and
Main Distribution Boards, typically 0.9. Hence, the expected demand G2
at the Supply Intake may be 0.81 times the sum of the FDB Diversified
Loads.
Note 5: a 90% diversity factor may be applied for split or window type air
conditioning units; diversity factors for central a/c units should be based
on manufacturers data or load data taken from other similar installations
(during summer temperature conditions)
Note 6: the calculated Diversified Load for Premises should be checked against
electricity usage data for similar Premises (typically 30 - 80 W / sq m for
domestic Premises and 100 – 150 W / sq m for offices and shops, including
air conditioning).
G3(a)
G3(b)
G3(c)
INCOMER
CABLE
G4(a)
G4(b) FDB
RCD RCD
MET
EEB Conductor
Supply CEC
Cable
Earth Fault
Extraneous Extraneous
Metallic Part Metallic Part
(water pipe) (building structure)
Note: Illustration shows TN-S supply system i.e. Distribution Company Earthed with Earthed
Equipotential Bonding (EEB) of Extraneous metalwork. Live conductors are not shown
for clarity.
Distribution Circuits
G4(c)
MCCB FDB
CEC CIRCUIT B
MCCB MCCB
CEC
MEC CIRCUIT A
MET
Isolator
Supplementary EEB
Main EEB
Supply
Cable
(TN-S)
FDB
G4(d)
RCD RCD
MEC CEC
MCCB
+
E/F
MCCB MCCB
+ +
E/F E/F
MET
Isolator
Main Supply
(TN-S-TT)
System
Note: Main Distribution Board includes MCCB with sensitive earth fault setting (provides
backup to RCDs in Final Distribution Board). Live conductors are not shown for clarity.
G4(e)
MDB FDB
RCD RCD
type S 100mA
(see Note 1)
RCD 30mA
30mA
Outdoor
socket-outlet with
30mA RCD
Note 1: Type S RCDs provide time delayed operation in order to discriminate with RCDs at the Final
Distribution Board. Alternatively, for high current applications a MCCB with sensitive earth
fault (E/F) relay may be used.
Note 2: 30mA RCD protection is required for socket-outlets serving portable appliances; 100mA
RCD protection is required for fixed appliances and circuits
G4(f)
SDB
with MCCBs
R
Y
B
R
Y
B
R
Y
B
RCD RCD
100mA 30mA
Extraneous
N Metallic Part
L V
t
G4(g)
I
F
R2
MET V Vt Vf
F
Ze
Vt = IF (R2 + Ze)
Notes
1.Touch Voltage Vt is approximately equal to the fault voltage Vf assuming that the
Extraneous-Metallic-Part is in good contact with Earth.
2. Ze is the resistance of the earth electrode (TT system) or the incoming supply earth fault
loop impedance (TN-S) system.
N Extraneous
L Metallic Part
G4(h) R1 V
t
I
F
Rs
R2
VR2 Supplementary EEB
MET
Main EEB
Vt VR2
Ze
RMET
Notes:
Without supplementary EEB the touch voltage Vt is approximately equal to the voltage drop across
the Circuit Earth Conductor resistance R2 .
To calculate Vt :
Vt VR2 = IF x R2 = Uo x R 2
Zs
Where :
UO = supply voltage to earth
Zs = total earth fault loop impedance
Example:
For an appliance supplied by an MCB (type C) of nominal rating 16A the maximum
earth fault loop impedance to give a 0.4 sec disconnection time, given under appendix A5(h)
is 1.5 Ohms. R2 is measured as 0.9 Ohms.
5,000
2,000
1,000
Time in milliseconds
500
1 2 3 4
200
100
50
20
10
0.1 0.2 0.3 0.5 1 2 3 5 10 20 30 50 100 200 300 500 1,000 2,000 3,000 5,000 10,000
Current in milliamperes (RMS)
Typical current limits
due to body resistance at 230V.
30mA RCD 100mA RCD
Threshold of feeling,
1 mA 100 V 1V
tingling sensation
Accepted as maximum
5 mA 500 V 5V
harmless current
Beginning of sustained
10-20 mA muscular contraction 1000 V 10 V
("Can't let go" current.)
Ventricular fibrillation,
fatal if continued.
100-300 mA 10000 V 100 V
Respiratory function
continues
Three-phase RCD:
Test button
Test resistor
L1 L1
L2 L2
L3 L3
N N
Load
Incoming
circuits
supply
Trip
relay
Single-phase RCD:
Test button
Test resistor
L L
N N
Load
Incoming
circuits
supply
Trip
relay
TYPE AC TYPE A
normal ac sensitivity pulsating dc sensitivity
ON ON
RCD RCD
• Loose connections
• Mains borne disturbances (e.g. surges,
lightning, transients from overhead lines)
Upstream of RCD
• Disturbing loads (e.g. machinery, lift
motor, etc)
Note: RCDs may also trip (correctly) because of Direct Contact by a person or
Indirect Contact (during earth fault)
Min 100mm
Note: cables should be installed in ducts to allow for future removal (clause 7.5.8)
G7(a)
G7(b)
G7(c)
30mA
30m
30
0m
mA
PUSH
PUS
PU
P USH
U
US
SH
H
TEST
TES
T
TE
EST
ESST
T
G7(d)
Double socket-outlet
G7(e)
Min 50mm
Buried plastic conduits in walls or ceilings must be min 50mm depth or metal conduit
must be used (see clause 7.4.6 )
G7(f)
G7(g)
G7(h)
G7(i)
G7(j)
G7(k)
Slot
Steel Plate
G7(l)
Note: Single core cables in a steel enclosure will cause electromagnetic currents
in the steel and possible overheating. This can be avoided by ensuring that a
non-ferromagnetic material is used around the cables (e.g. brass plate) or slots
are cut in the steel between the phase conductors.
G7m Flex-outlets
G7(m)
Flex-outlet
(with switch and fuse)
Flex-outlet plate
The following table lists the clauses that were changed under Amendment
No 1 of the Electricity Wiring Regulations, published by the Bureau in
November 2008. These are now incorporated into Revision 1 of the
Electricity Wiring Regulations (indicated by a red line throughout this
publication).
G8
A12 (b) Dimensions for Supply Intake Amended table and note
room