Distribution board

[calabash]

Looking at new boards, note that the majority appear to be split boards with half the circuits not protected by the RCD, only a main switch. Why? Do I use the unprotected half for lighting circuits?

[summit elec]

if they are 17thedition boards you are looking at they should be split and have 2 rcds. the old 16th edition are split and have one rcd and one none rcd protected side which was used to power lights and other items of fixed equipment.

[moggy1968]

thats incorrect.
with the 17th edition boards are split in two with both sides protected by seperate RCDs to meet the requirements for minimum disruption.
your talking about 16th edition boards which generally cannot now be used.

[calabash]

Thanks for that, I'll swap out the main swith for another RCD

[moggy1968]

my reply was posted before the one above appeared. my response was with reference to the original question, just to clarify

[sparx]

Calabash, don't swop isolator for second RCD, it will put the two in line & not achieve discrimination reqd.
Just fit rcbo's to main switch circuits.
There are many ways to comply with 17th regs, eg 2 RCD's
No RCD's but all RCBO's etc.
regards Sparx

[calabash]

Well stopped, thanks for that I'll seek a reasnable sourve of RCBO's

[moggy1968]

isn't that notifiable?

[kbrownie]

Idea would be to have your lights on RCBO's and least if RCD trips on otherside you can see if it's dark!
If RCBOs are installed likely to be deemed as new circuit so EIC needed part p or registered electrician required.
KB

[calabash]

Regulations - don't you just love them, thanks for the advice

[summit elec]

i wouldnt put all my socket circuits on one r.c.d if it goes youve got no sockets, it is good practice to put your upstairs lights on the same rcd as your downstairs sockets and downstairs lights on the same as your upstairs sockets. in fact i think there is a reg that states this.

[sparx]

Correct summit elec.
page 39 of red bible
reg 314.1(i) & (iii).

Regards SPARX