Distance between consumer unit and gas meter

[parksy]

Hi,

We are having a consumer unit installed in an under stairs cupboard and the electrician wants to install it next to a gas meter. I had a feeling that there was a minimum distance needed between a gas meter and consumer unit but can't remember for sure. Am I remembering correctly and if so what is that minimum distance?

Many thanks in advance.
Chris

 

[GaryMo]

The OSG mentions a separation of at least 150 mm to be provided, between a gas meter (and associated fittings) and electrical equipment, unless there is a non-combustible partition of insulating material between them.

 

[LoveRocket]

Hi Chris,

There must be 150mm between the gas meter and consumer unit (unless there is a fireproof partition between them).

Get your electrician to look at page 18 of his/her on-site guide...

 

[LoveRocket]

D'oh!

 

[Chri5]

I think it's 150mm, but most DNO / energy suppliers suggest 300mm on the spec for new builds.

There's heaps of older builds where the gas and electricity supplies are adjacent to each other, that's doesn't mean it's right (or wrong)

Had a quick shuffle of the red book and couldn't find anything stated.

 

[GaryMo]

It's not a BS7671 regulation but it'll be covered indirectly with regards to external influences.


BS6891-2005 8.16.2
Separation of installation pipework from other services.

Where installation pipes are not separated by electrical insulating material, they shall be spaced as follows:
a) at least 150 mm away from electricity meters and associated excess current controls, electrical switches or sockets, distribution boards or consumer units;
b) at least 25mm away from electricity supply and distribution cables.

 

[parksy]

Thanks everyone.

What does 'separated by electrical insulating material' mean in practice? Can the gas meter be boxed in? Would plasterboard suffice? Can there just be a divider between the two? Made from what?

Many thanks
Chris

 

[macbac]

Bit of topic but would a minor work certificate be needed if you were called to a house to just bond the gas pipe?