18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations

[lyledunn]

I am not sure if I mentioned this elsewhere but you can download a PDF of the draft regs from the BS website. They are looking for feedback before end of August. Some interesting fire stuff including a pointer towards AFDs.

[wee brian]

probably not the wiring "regs" sit in a unique position.

[colin todd]

I didn't understand your reply, Brian, and I have not even had my medicinal nightcap yet.  Maybe it will be clear when i do.

[wee brian]

The wiring regs are a BS but not a normal one. subject to different rules etc.

[colin todd]

Yes, I know all that Bri, but what did you mean "probably  not".

[wee brian]

I was guessing that you cant just download the DPC from the BSI website.

[Bill J]

Gents,

Just for info, It is not a pointer to Automatic Fire Detectors.....(My preferred type of AFD being a Fire Alarm Guy), but rather arc fault detection devices (AFDDs) which I believe are generally part of the electrical supply circuit protection.

The draft pretty much states for Fire Alarm Systems refer to BS5839.

Bill

[Fishy]

Haven't read it, but I will.  I have heard that after the adoption of metal consumer units under the 17th version lots of Sparkys are getting excited about blobbing intumescent mastic around any holes/gaps in them...

[lyledunn]

You are right Bill, that was silly of me. As far as I can determine the merits of AFDDs are only being acknowledged and no requirement is being made to install them. The devices "see" the resultant waveform of arcing between live conductors and respond by interrupting the supply thereby reducing the risk of fire.
With respect to the metal clad consumer units, yes there has been heated discussions on the rights and wrongs but the requirement has certainly increased fire safety awareness among the nations sparks!