DNO Earthing

[londonleccy]

I came across this situation the other day.

Installation has old Wylex wooden framed CU with re wireables changed for mcbs.The in coming lead service cable terminated in plastic cutout very low to floor.

There is no sign of any kind of earthing from lead sheath of service cable or any earth pin connected.

There is a 10mm earth cable from earth bar in CU .I carried out a Ze test--52ohms.

Traced 10mm to in coming water pipe in kitchen.I need to investigate further but was this ever a acceptacle means of earthing ??,and will DNO install a point of earthing if required or do they just tell you to install earth pin.

This is in a built up area where TN-S seems to be the general earthing arrangement(southern electric,West London area)

thanks in advance

 

[Andy™]

the water pipe was often used years ago, and way a very good earth rod, but they are now being replaced with plastic which isnt so good.

DNO may supply an earth (either TN-S using sheath, or PME). but they will probably charge for it. or you could just stick a rod in and treat as TT

 

[Badger]

and if you dont get a very good earth reading from the new rod just pi$$ on the rod :^O

 

[Evans Electric]

I'd go with what Andy says , but best to ignore The Badger until he has reached his 1000th post Just a note on main earthing, the networks were never obliged to supply an earth terminal ( as they have often told me) , just a single phase supply at the notified votage,. ( 3phase always has an earth term) Its always up to the contractor to ensure adequate earthing.

Lot of properties in the midlands are as described by Londonleckie.

 

[Andy™]

Just a note on main earthing, the networks were never obliged to supply an earth terminal ( as they have often told me)

dont know about then, but now they should provide PME under ESQCR if the network is up to it

 

[Evans Electric]

They will often refuse a cable sheath or PME in this area as network is not up to it . What is ESQCR ??

Deke

 

[Andy™]

Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations. quick google search should bring it up

 

[Andy™]

They will often refuse a cable sheath or PME in this area as network is not up to it . What is ESQCR ??Deke

also, if DNO did provide an earth at any point, they have to maintain it.

 

[londonleccy]

thanks for the replies ,I will have to look into it further and sit on the phone to the local DNO for hours only for them to tell me they're not interested