How do I earth a metallic switch?

[SeanBrowne]

Hello,

Can anyone help with an earthing problem?

I recently bought a chrome switch for my downstairs hallway light (2 gang, 2 way). The existing switch was plastic and there was no earth lead to either the switch or the installation box mounted in the wall.

Because the new switch is metallic, I understand that it needs to be earthed. However, while there is a connection in the switch for an earth lead, there is nowhere to connect it to in the installation box. Does anyone know if I can just wire it up to the installation box, so that a connection is made. Or, do I have to buy a new installation box (which I don't want to do as it will mean excavating the old one out of the wall and we have just re-decorated).

Thanks.

 

[JohnD]

You say there is no earth wire? Then you must not use a metal switch (nor metal lamp fittings).

You lighting circuit is probably 40 years old or more (there was a time when lighting circuits were not obliged to include an earth) so it could do with being rewired.

Until this is done you must not use metal switches or lamps.