RCD on new consumer unit

[plugwash]

its ok to use the plate screws to earth the back box provided the box has at least one fixed lug

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Yeah, but it's a bit tacky....

 

[dingbat]

Yeah, but it's a bit tacky....

It's not, actually. If you think about it it's the socket plate that's exposed so that's what you attach the earth to. If you attach a flying lead to the back box, you would do it with a screw connection, so what's the difference if thius is done via a fixed lug, rather than a dedicated terminal. I'm happy that the advice on fixed lugs is both sensible and practical.

 

[dmccormick]

sorry for ignorance, but what exactly do you mean by fixed lug ? Do you mean that the box is nailed into the wall ?

 

[ban-all-sheds]

No.

You know the two little lugs each side of the box where the screws that hold the faceplate on go?

Typically one is fixed and the other is free to move up and down a bit so that you've got a bit of freedom to rotate the accessory slightly to get it to line up perfectly.

As long as one of the lugs is fixed, and they don't both move, it is regarded as a sound enough connection to provide an earth connection to the box.

 

[dmccormick]

Ok thanks. Yes, one is fixed.

 

[securespark]

to rotate the accessory slightly.

WOW! You have rotating accessories, albeit only slightly????

 

[Damocles]

You mean you don't?

 

[pipme]

SS rotates the wall ... big lad !!

 

[Damocles]

Mine go round and round so much they should be on TV