Other equipment may be taken to include the consumer unit, as it contains devices such as MCB’s and RCD’s that may need operation or resetting by the user of the dwelling. The approved document prescribes that switches, socket outlets and “other equipment” needs to be at appropriate heights, these are defined as between 0.45m and 1.2m from finished floor level. Part M requires that reasonable provision be made for people to gain access to a building and use its facilities. The approved document prescribes that consumer units should be located so that they are easily reachable where this is necessary to comply with Part M of the building Regulations.
Part P of the building regulations relates to the electrical safety in dwellings. Since 2005 the Building regulations for England and Wales has made direct reference to Electrical Installations, increasing the influence on how Electrical Equipment is installed in buildings. This guide below will help you understand the new Wiring Regulations and current Building Regulations, providing the necessary facts to construct compliant installations including Consumer Units. Several new Regulations will have an impact upon circuit design and consumer unit layout. Installations designed from 1st July 2008 must comply with this new set of Regulations. The introduction of the 17th Edition of the Wiring Regulations on the 1st January 2008 has major implications for all Electrical Contractors, Designers and Consultants. For well over one hundred years the Wiring Regulations have provided the rules which must be followed to make sure that electrical installations are safe.