Securing screw arking against metal lug on backbox

[Flyfisher108]

Just noticed that there is some arking going on when I connect The screw against the securing lug inside the back box, Checked the connections going into the 20 amp isolator switch which seem fine and no tripping of the RCD or MCB Just want to ask you guys your thoughts, cheers

 

[chivers67]

Is it a metal accessory? Have you a multi meter ?

 

[Flyfisher108]

Yes metal back box but don’t have a multi meter just now

 

[Flyfisher108]

Sorry no plastic facia 20 amp isolator onto metal backbox

 

[chivers67]

What cables are inside it? is there an Earth connection to the back box?

 

[Flyfisher108]

2 lives and 2 neutrals and 2 earths on the supply side and a live and neutral and earth on the load side supplying a double socket Earth cable is connected to backbox

 

[chivers67]

Have you got a plug in Socket Tester? When this Arced were you holding the screw with bare hands?

 

[Flyfisher108]

Yes I have a matindale plug tester and yes I was holding the screw with my bare hands cheers

 

[Flyfisher108]

Was also arking when using the insulated screwdriver

 

[chivers67]

Was it a Neon type? What flooring were you standing on? Seems like there must be a potential difference between you and Earth so this could be quite serious. Have any of your Neighbours had problems? Can you plug the socket Tester into a working Socket and see if you have a Neutral connection? Post a photo of it.

 

[Flyfisher108]

Yes it is a neon type, floor type is wooden floor with linoleum (vinyl) cover, no problems with neighbours that my son is aware of it is a flat he lives in, will test the socket and get back to you. Cheers

 

[Flyfisher108]

 

[Flyfisher108]

All sockets in kitchen tested and all ok, if it is voltage leaking to earth would you think it is leaking from the neutral side as I would have thought if it was on the live side it would be a dead short and both rcd and mcb would trip?

 

[333rocky333]

Is it a metal accessory? Have you a multi meter ?

Apart from plastic plate light switches, i think all plastic accessories seem to have metal surrounds around the screw holes, connected to the accessories earth terminal.

 

[Flyfisher108]

Yes this one does also.