Approved_Document_P_Flashcards
1
Q
What is the purpose of Approved Document P?
A
To ensure that electrical installations in dwellings are designed and installed safely to reduce the risk of fire and electric shock.
2
Q
When was the 2013 edition of Approved Document P published?
A
April 2013.
3
Q
Which types of buildings does Approved Document P apply to?
A
Dwellings, including houses, flats, maisonettes, and associated outdoor areas such as gardens and garages.
4
Q
Why was Approved Document P introduced?
A
To address the dangers associated with faulty electrical installations and to ensure electrical safety in domestic properties.
5
Q
Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with Approved Document P?
A
The person carrying out the electrical work, building control bodies, and registered competent person schemes.
6
Q
Which other parts of the Building Regulations interact with Approved Document P?
A
Part A (Structure), Part B (Fire Safety), Part C (Site Preparation), Part E (Sound), and Part L (Energy Efficiency).
7
Q
How does Part B (Fire Safety) relate to electrical installations?
A
Electrical systems should be designed to prevent fire hazards, ensuring wiring does not overheat or cause ignition.
8
Q
Why is Part L (Energy Efficiency) relevant to electrical installations?
A
It sets standards for energy-efficient lighting and electrical appliances to reduce energy consumption.
9
Q
What is the role of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 in relation to Approved Document P?
A
It ensures electrical systems are maintained in a safe condition in workplaces and public areas.
10
Q
What enforcement action can be taken for non-compliance with Approved Document P?
A
Local authorities can take legal action, including issuing enforcement notices and requiring unsafe work to be rectified.
11
Q
Who is considered a ‘competent person’ under Approved Document P?
A
A qualified electrician who is registered with a government-approved scheme to self-certify compliance.
12
Q
What are the benefits of using a registered competent person for electrical work?
A
They can self-certify their work without requiring local authority approval, saving time and costs.
13
Q
What certification must be provided after completing electrical work under Part P?
A
An Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) or Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC), depending on the scope of work.
14
Q
What is a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate?
A
A document issued by a registered competent person to confirm that the electrical work complies with Building Regulations.
15
Q
How long must electrical installation certificates be kept?
A
They should be retained for the lifetime of the installation or at least 10 years.
16
Q
What are the key principles of electrical safety under Approved Document P?
A
Proper design, safe installation, regular inspection, and compliance with BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations).
17
Q
What is BS 7671, and why is it important?
A
BS 7671 is the UK national standard for electrical installations, setting safety requirements for wiring and components.
18
Q
What is the primary cause of electrical fires in domestic properties?
A
Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and poorly installed electrical components.
19
Q
What precautions should be taken when installing sockets in wet areas such as kitchens and bathrooms?
A
Sockets should be positioned at a safe distance from water sources and protected by RCDs (Residual Current Devices).
20
Q
What is an RCD, and why is it important?
A
A Residual Current Device is a safety device that disconnects electricity if an imbalance is detected, preventing electric shock.
21
Q
Why must cables be installed at safe depths within walls?
A
To prevent accidental damage from drilling or nailing into concealed electrical wiring.
22
Q
How should electrical circuits be designed to prevent overloading?
A
By ensuring each circuit has the correct fuse or circuit breaker and is appropriately rated for the connected load.
23
Q
What does Requirement P1 of Approved Document P state?
A
Electrical installations must be designed and installed to provide appropriate protection against fire and electric shock.
24
Q
Which factors must be considered in the design of an electrical installation?
A
Circuit layout, protective devices, earthing arrangements, and suitability for intended use.
25
Why is correct circuit design important?
To ensure that wiring can safely handle the electrical load and avoid overloading.
26
What are the two main risks associated with poor electrical installation?
Electric shock and fire caused by faulty wiring or components.
27
What are the key components of an electrical installation?
Consumer unit, protective devices, circuits, outlets, switches, and earthing system.
28
What is the purpose of a consumer unit?
It distributes electricity throughout the property and contains circuit breakers and RCDs for safety.
29
What is the function of a circuit breaker?
It automatically disconnects power if a fault occurs, preventing electrical overload or short circuits.
30
What is the recommended location for a consumer unit?
In an easily accessible location, such as a hallway or utility area, at a height between 1350mm and 1450mm.
31
Why is discrimination between circuit breakers important?
To ensure that only the faulty circuit is disconnected, preventing unnecessary power loss to other circuits.
32
What is an RCBO, and how does it enhance electrical safety?
A Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent protection (RCBO) combines the functions of an RCD and MCB in one unit.
33
What is the purpose of earthing in electrical installations?
To provide a low-resistance path for fault currents to safely dissipate into the ground, reducing the risk of electric shock.
34
What is the difference between main protective bonding and supplementary bonding?
Main bonding connects metallic services (e.g., gas, water) to the main earthing system, while supplementary bonding links conductive parts in specific areas, such as bathrooms.
35
Where should main protective bonding be installed?
At the point where metallic pipes enter the property, using conductors of at least 10mm² cross-sectional area.
36
Why is supplementary bonding sometimes no longer required in new installations?
If circuits are protected by 30mA RCDs, supplementary bonding may not be necessary, as RCDs provide enhanced shock protection.
37
What factors determine the correct cable size for an electrical circuit?
Current load, voltage drop, installation method, and ambient temperature.
38
What is the standard minimum cable size for socket circuits?
2.5mm² twin and earth cable for a ring final circuit.
39
What is the purpose of a radial circuit?
To supply power to outlets without looping back to the consumer unit, often used for lighting and dedicated appliance circuits.
40
What type of wiring system is commonly used in domestic installations?
Twin and earth PVC-insulated cables installed within walls, floors, or conduits.
41
What depth should buried cables be installed at within walls?
At least 50mm deep or protected by a suitable mechanical barrier to prevent accidental damage.
42
How should cables be routed in walls to comply with Approved Document P?
They should be installed within prescribed safe zones, such as horizontally or vertically aligned with outlets and switches.
43
What is the minimum height for sockets in new dwellings?
450mm above floor level to improve accessibility.
44
What is the maximum height for light switches and controls?
1200mm above floor level.
45
Why must sockets in kitchens be positioned carefully?
To prevent exposure to water and ensure safe operation of appliances.
46
What distance should be maintained between a socket and a sink?
At least 300mm to reduce the risk of electrical hazards.
47
What type of protective device is required for lighting circuits?
A 6A or 10A MCB or RCBO to prevent circuit overload.
48
What is the standard cable size for domestic lighting circuits?
1.5mm² twin and earth cable.
49
What is the recommended minimum number of lighting circuits in a typical dwelling?
At least two, to ensure that a fault in one circuit does not leave the entire property without lighting.
50
What safety considerations must be made for bathroom lighting?
Luminaires must have the appropriate IP (Ingress Protection) rating for their location within bathroom zones.
51
What type of protective device should be used for outdoor lighting?
An RCBO or RCD-protected circuit to prevent electric shock hazards in wet conditions.
52
Why must electrical installations be tested after completion?
To verify compliance with BS 7671 and ensure safe operation.
53
What tests should be performed before an electrical installation is certified?
Continuity testing, insulation resistance testing, polarity checks, earth fault loop impedance testing, and RCD testing.
54
What is the purpose of an RCD test?
To ensure the RCD disconnects the power supply within the required time when a fault occurs.
55
What documentation must be provided after electrical installation work?
An Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) or Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC).
56
What is the primary focus of Section 1 in Approved Document P?
It provides detailed guidance on the design, installation, and safety requirements for electrical work in dwellings.
57
Why must electrical installations be carefully designed?
To ensure they meet safety standards, reduce fire risks, and provide reliable power distribution.
58
What factors must be considered when designing an electrical installation?
Load demand, circuit protection, earthing arrangements, and future expansion possibilities.
59
What is a final circuit in an electrical installation?
A circuit that directly supplies electricity to sockets, lighting, or appliances.
60
Why are radial circuits used for lighting?
Because they provide a straightforward wiring configuration and avoid unnecessary looping of conductors.
61
What is a ring final circuit?
A circuit where live conductors form a loop from the consumer unit to multiple sockets before returning to the unit.
62
What is the main advantage of using a ring final circuit?
It allows higher power distribution with reduced cable size compared to radial circuits.
63
What is the maximum floor area a 32A ring final circuit can supply?
100 square metres.
64
What is the purpose of a fuse in an electrical circuit?
To protect wiring and equipment by disconnecting power in case of overcurrent.
65
How does an MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker) function?
It automatically disconnects the circuit when excessive current flow is detected, preventing overheating and fire.
66
What is the difference between an MCB and an RCBO?
An MCB protects against overcurrent, while an RCBO provides combined protection against overcurrent and earth faults.
67
What is the typical operating time of an RCD when detecting a fault?
Less than 300 milliseconds to prevent electric shock.
68
What is the function of earthing in an electrical installation?
To provide a safe path for fault currents and prevent electric shocks.
69
What is the minimum recommended size for main protective bonding conductors?
At least 10mm² copper conductors.
70
What should be connected to main protective bonding?
Metallic water, gas, and oil supply pipes entering the property.
71
Where should supplementary bonding be installed?
In bathrooms and kitchens where additional safety measures are required.
72
What type of connection must be used for earthing conductors?
Secure mechanical clamps that comply with BS 951.
73
What is the maximum number of sockets recommended on a 32A ring final circuit?
There is no strict limit, but it should be designed to avoid excessive load on the circuit.
74
Why should sockets not be placed too close to corners?
To allow easy access for users and prevent cable strain.
75
What are the height requirements for socket outlets in new dwellings?
Between 450mm and 1200mm above floor level.
76
How should sockets be installed in kitchens?
At least 300mm away from sinks and hobs for safety.
77
What is the recommended cable size for a lighting circuit?
1.5mm² twin and earth cable.
78
What is the typical rating for an MCB used on a lighting circuit?
6A or 10A, depending on circuit load.
79
How should lighting circuits be arranged in a dwelling?
At least two separate circuits should be used to ensure lighting remains available if one circuit fails.
80
What safety considerations apply to outdoor lighting?
It must be installed using weatherproof enclosures and be RCD protected.
81
What type of lighting is required in bathroom zones 1 and 2?
IP-rated fittings that are suitable for wet environments.
82
Why are bathrooms considered special locations under Approved Document P?
Because of the increased risk of electric shock due to the presence of water.
83
What are the main bathroom zoning areas for electrical installations?
Zone 0 (inside the bath/shower), Zone 1 (above the bath up to 2.25m), and Zone 2 (0.6m beyond the bath or basin).
84
What is the required IP rating for light fittings in Zone 1?
At least IPX4 (splashproof).
85
Where should electric shower isolators be installed?
Outside the bathroom or in a pull-cord switch positioned away from water sources.
86
Why must an electrical installation be inspected and tested before use?
To ensure it complies with BS 7671 and is safe for operation.
87
What are the main types of tests carried out on new installations?
Continuity, insulation resistance, polarity, earth loop impedance, and RCD testing.
88
What document is issued after a complete electrical installation is tested?
An Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC).
89
What must be done if minor electrical work is carried out?
A Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC) should be issued.
90
Who is responsible for ensuring electrical work complies with Approved Document P?
The person carrying out the work, building control bodies, and competent person schemes.
91
What does Section 2 of Approved Document P cover?
It explains where Part P applies, what types of electrical work are covered, and the legal requirements for compliance.
92
Where does Approved Document P apply?
To all electrical work in dwellings, including houses, flats, maisonettes, and common areas of buildings.
93
Does Approved Document P apply to commercial buildings?
No, it applies only to domestic properties and parts of commercial buildings used as residences.
94
Does Part P apply to electrical installations in gardens?
Yes, it applies to outdoor electrical work, including garden lighting and power supplies.
95
What types of electrical work require compliance with Part P?
New circuits, rewires, consumer unit replacements, and electrical work in special locations like bathrooms and kitchens.
96
What electrical work must be notified to building control under Part P?
New circuits, work in special locations, consumer unit changes, and alterations to existing circuits in special locations.
97
What is meant by a ‘special location’ under Part P?
Areas with increased risk of electric shock, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor installations.
98
What types of electrical work do not require notification?
Replacing sockets, switches, light fittings, and minor alterations that do not add a new circuit.
99
What is the purpose of the notification requirement under Part P?
To ensure electrical work is inspected, tested, and meets safety standards.
100
Who is responsible for notifying building control of electrical work?
The person carrying out the work, unless they are a registered competent person who can self-certify.
101
What is a competent person scheme under Part P?
A scheme that allows qualified electricians to self-certify electrical work without notifying building control.
102
What are the benefits of using a competent person for electrical work?
It avoids the need for building control notification and ensures compliance with safety standards.
103
What happens if non-notifiable work is later found to be unsafe?
Local authorities can require the work to be corrected, and homeowners may face legal consequences.
104
What must an electrician do after completing work that requires notification?
Issue an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) or Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC).
105
How can a homeowner check if an electrician is registered under a competent person scheme?
By checking the official website of schemes like NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA.
106
What are the consequences of failing to comply with Part P?
The local authority can require the work to be corrected, and non-compliance may void insurance policies.
107
Can a homeowner sell a property with non-compliant electrical work?
It may be difficult, as mortgage lenders and buyers often require proof of compliance.
108
How can non-compliant electrical work be rectified?
By hiring a registered electrician to inspect and issue a retrospective Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC).
109
Who enforces compliance with Part P?
Local authority building control officers and approved inspectors.
110
What should homeowners do before carrying out DIY electrical work?
Consult Approved Document P, ensure they understand the requirements, and notify building control if necessary.
111
What is a ‘special installation’ under Part P?
Electrical work involving swimming pools, saunas, and photovoltaic (solar) panel systems.
112
Why is additional protection required for electrical work in bathrooms?
Because of the increased risk of electric shock due to moisture and water contact.
113
What type of protective device must be used for circuits in a bathroom?
An RCD (Residual Current Device) with a 30mA trip rating.
114
Are electric showers covered under Part P?
Yes, they must be installed by a qualified electrician and comply with BS 7671 wiring regulations.
115
What distance must be maintained between electrical sockets and water sources?
At least 3m from the edge of a bath or shower.
116
What is the purpose of Section 3 in Approved Document P?
To ensure that electrical work is inspected, tested, and certified to confirm compliance with safety standards.
117
Why is certification important for electrical work?
It provides proof that the installation meets legal safety requirements and helps prevent electrical hazards.
118
Which certificates are issued after electrical work is completed?
Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) and Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC).
119
When should an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) be issued?
For new installations, major alterations, and when new circuits are added.
120
When is a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC) used?
For minor work that does not involve new circuits, such as replacing a socket or switch.
121
What tests must be carried out before issuing an EIC?
Continuity testing, insulation resistance, polarity checks, earth loop impedance testing, and RCD testing.
122
What is the purpose of a continuity test?
To ensure that conductors are correctly connected and that no breaks exist in the wiring.
123
Why is insulation resistance testing important?
To verify that electrical insulation is intact and prevent leakage currents that could cause electric shock.
124
What does an RCD test measure?
The response time of a Residual Current Device to ensure it disconnects power within the required time.
125
What is an earth loop impedance test?
A test to measure the impedance of the earth fault path, ensuring the protective devices operate correctly in case of a fault.
126
Who is responsible for issuing an Electrical Installation Certificate?
The electrician or competent person who carried out the work.
127
What should be done if an electrical installation fails an inspection?
The issues must be rectified before the installation is certified as safe.
128
Where should electrical certificates be kept?
By the property owner for future reference, inspections, and property transactions.
129
What happens if an electrical installation is completed without testing?
It may be deemed unsafe, requiring a retrospective inspection and testing to issue certification.
130
Who can carry out an inspection and testing of electrical work?
A qualified electrician who is registered under a competent person scheme or approved by building control.
131
What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)?
A report that assesses the condition of an existing electrical installation and identifies defects.
132
When should an EICR be carried out in a domestic property?
At least every 10 years, or when buying, selling, or renting a property.
133
What classifications are used in an EICR?
C1 (Danger present), C2 (Potential danger), C3 (Improvement recommended).
134
What action must be taken if a C1 defect is identified in an EICR?
Immediate remedial action is required to remove the danger.
135
What is the legal requirement for landlords regarding EICRs?
Landlords must have an EICR conducted every 5 years and provide a copy to tenants.
136
What should be done if work is carried out without certification?
A retrospective inspection and testing must be conducted by a registered electrician.
137
Can local authorities take enforcement action for non-certified work?
Yes, they can require remedial action, issue fines, and take legal proceedings.
138
What is a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate?
A document issued by a competent person scheme confirming that electrical work complies with Part P.
139
How can homeowners verify compliance of their electrical work?
By requesting certificates from the electrician and checking with competent person scheme registries.
140
Why is it important to notify building control about electrical work?
To ensure compliance with safety standards and avoid enforcement action for non-compliance.
141
What is a Consumer Unit?
A distribution board that houses fuses, circuit breakers, and RCDs for electrical circuits.
142
What is an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC)?
A certificate confirming that electrical work has been designed, installed, and tested to meet safety standards.
143
What is a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC)?
A certificate issued for minor work that does not involve adding a new circuit.
144
What is an RCD (Residual Current Device)?
A safety device that disconnects electricity if it detects an imbalance in the circuit to prevent electric shock.
145
What is an RCBO?
A device that combines the functions of an MCB (overcurrent protection) and an RCD (earth fault protection).
146
What is the purpose of an earth loop impedance test?
To measure the impedance of the earth fault path and ensure protective devices operate correctly in case of a fault.
147
What is a competent person under Approved Document P?
A qualified electrician registered with a government-approved scheme who can self-certify electrical work.
148
What is Part P of the Building Regulations?
A regulation ensuring that electrical work in dwellings is designed and installed safely.
149
What does an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) assess?
The safety and condition of an existing electrical installation, identifying potential hazards.
150
What is a special location in electrical installations?
An area with increased risk of electric shock, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor installations.
151
What is a radial circuit?
A circuit where electricity flows from the consumer unit to outlets in a single path, without looping back.
152
What is a ring final circuit?
A circuit where live conductors form a loop from the consumer unit to multiple sockets before returning to the unit.
153
What is supplementary bonding?
An additional connection between metal parts in locations such as bathrooms to reduce electric shock risk.
154
What is a main protective bonding conductor?
A conductor that connects metallic services (e.g., gas, water) to the main earthing system.
155
What is the purpose of insulation resistance testing?
To verify that electrical insulation is intact and prevent leakage currents that could cause electric shock.
156
What is the required height for socket outlets in new dwellings?
A minimum of 450mm above the floor for accessibility.
157
What is an IP rating in electrical installations?
A classification that indicates the level of protection against dust and moisture for electrical equipment.
158
What is the maximum tripping time for an RCD rated at 30mA?
300 milliseconds under fault conditions.
159
What is the recommended frequency for periodic inspection of domestic electrical installations?
At least every 10 years, or every 5 years for rental properties.
160
What are the three classification codes in an EICR?
C1 (Danger present), C2 (Potential danger), C3 (Improvement recommended).
161
What is BS 7671, and why is it important?
BS 7671 is the UK national standard for electrical installations, specifying wiring regulations and safety requirements.
162
What does BS EN 61439 relate to?
It covers the design and safety requirements for low-voltage switchgear and consumer units.
163
What is the purpose of BS 5839?
It provides recommendations for the design, installation, and maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems.
164
How does BS 5266 relate to electrical safety?
It sets the standards for emergency lighting systems in buildings to ensure safe evacuation in case of power failure.
165
What does BS EN 60598 cover?
It specifies safety requirements for luminaries, including domestic and commercial lighting systems.
166
What British Standard applies to RCDs?
BS EN 61008 and BS EN 61009 cover the design and testing of residual current devices.
167
What is the role of BS 7430 in earthing?
It provides guidelines for earthing practices in electrical installations to ensure safety.
168
What does BS 1363 relate to?
It defines the specifications for UK socket outlets and plugs, ensuring compatibility and safety.
169
What British Standard covers electrical installation condition reporting (EICR)?
BS 7671 Appendix 6 provides guidance on periodic inspection and testing of electrical systems.
170
What is the purpose of BS EN 61558?
It sets safety requirements for power transformers, including those used in domestic electrical supplies.
171
What government legislation supports Approved Document P?
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Building Regulations 2010 ensure legal compliance with electrical safety.
172
Where can official guidance on electrical safety be found?
On the UK Government website (www.gov.uk) and from organizations such as NICEIC and IET.
173
What is the purpose of the IET Wiring Regulations?
They provide the legal framework for safe electrical design, installation, and inspection in the UK.
174
Why is compliance with British Standards important?
To ensure electrical installations meet safety, efficiency, and reliability standards.
