Written by Grant Seeman – National Technical Advisor
A practical series on the four inspection questions and 15 tests in SANS 10142-1
Part 2: Components correctly selected and installed
The second inspection question reads:
“Components have been correctly selected and installed.”
Clause 8.5.2 requires this statement to be confirmed with a “Yes”. A “No” answer prevents the issuing of the test report. Clause 8.5.2 also requires components to be accessible where necessary.
This question is about more than whether the equipment works. The registered person must confirm that the component is the right one for the job, is suitable for the supply and location, and has been installed correctly.
Why is this important?
A component may work under normal conditions but still be unsuitable for the installation. The wrong voltage rating, the wrong type of device, an unsuitable enclosure or incorrect installation can lead to overheating, electric shock, fire or equipment failure.
Clause 5.1 requires electrical equipment to be installed in accordance with SANS 10142-1 and the manufacturer’s instructions.
Regulation 5(2) of the Electrical Installation Regulations also requires components used in an electrical installation to comply with the relevant standards, with proof of compliance identifiable on the component or available from the manufacturer or supplier.
What must be confirmed?
The registered person must establish that:
- The component complies with the applicable standard.
- It is suitable for the voltage and current of the circuit.
- It is suitable for a.c. or d.c. use, where applicable.
- Its protective or breaking capacity is suitable where required.
- It is suitable for the environment in which it is installed.
- It has been installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- It is not damaged in a way that could affect safety.
- It is accessible where operation, testing, inspection, maintenance or replacement may be required.
Clause 4.1.1 requires the commodities listed in Table 4.1 to comply with the applicable standards. Clause 4.1.2 specifically requires components used in a d.c. installation to comply with the requirements for d.c. operation.
Components include items such as conductors and cables, conduits and conduit fittings or couplings, trunking and other wireways, junction boxes, distribution boards, circuit-breakers, earth leakage units, switches, socket-outlets, isolators, luminaires, contactors, transformers, surge protective devices and other equipment that forms part of the electrical installation.
How is the inspection carried out?
Work through the installation and inspect the components that form part of it.
Check the information marked on the component and compare it with the circuit in which it is installed. Confirm that the voltage and current ratings are suitable and that a device used on d.c. is actually rated for d.c. operation.
Do not assume that because a component physically fits, it is suitable.
Also inspect where and how the equipment has been installed. Consider moisture, dust, heat, corrosion, direct sunlight and the possibility of physical damage. A component or enclosure must be suitable for those conditions.
Clause 5.3.8 requires electrical equipment to be positioned so that it is readily accessible for installation, replacement, operation, testing, inspection, maintenance and repair. It must also not be likely to suffer physical damage or have dust or moisture accumulate in a way that could cause a flashover.
Inspect the condition of the equipment as well. Look for cracked enclosures, missing covers, damaged terminals, signs of overheating, loose equipment or unauthorised modifications.
Common mistakes
Common mistakes include:
- Using an a.c.-only component on a d.c. circuit.
- Installing equipment with the wrong voltage or current rating.
- Using an indoor component outdoors or in a wet or dusty area.
- Ignoring the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
- Accepting cracked, burnt or damaged equipment.
- Installing equipment where it cannot be safely reached for testing or maintenance.
What if the result is unacceptable?
The component may need to be replaced, relocated, protected by a suitable enclosure or correctly reinstalled.
Regulation 9(3) of the Electrical Installation Regulations requires the registered person to refuse to issue the Certificate of Compliance until the fault or defect has been rectified.
Practical tip
Do not ask only:
“Does it work?”
Ask:
“Is it the right component for this circuit, this location and this job — and has it been installed correctly?”
Key takeaway
A component is correctly selected and installed only when its rating, application, location, condition, accessibility and manufacturer’s instructions have all been considered together.
