On the first Wilex unit shown, the back side of the cover may have details regarding the duties of the fuses written on it in the spaces provided. I fail to see why the earlier examples were not also constructed out of a flame retardant sunstance, like metal. I suspect it may be a case of it not being a requirement at the time of manufacture. Even so, it seems like a fatal flaw in their design, so I'm not sure how it could be overlooked. While these old units may still pass inspections, the safety benefits and convenience of the newer units make upgrading a no-brainer, assuming finances allow.
Thanks for the comment James, yes you’re correct about it not being a requirement at the time of manufacture. The requirement for consumer units to be fire-rated was published in BS7671:2018 at the request of the London fire brigade who reported a large number fires starting in consumer units.
On the first Wilex unit shown, the back side of the cover may have details regarding the duties of the fuses written on it in the spaces provided.
I fail to see why the earlier examples were not also constructed out of a flame retardant sunstance, like metal. I suspect it may be a case of it not being a requirement at the time of manufacture. Even so, it seems like a fatal flaw in their design, so I'm not sure how it could be overlooked.
While these old units may still pass inspections, the safety benefits and convenience of the newer units make upgrading a no-brainer, assuming finances allow.
Thanks for the comment James, yes you’re correct about it not being a requirement at the time of manufacture.
The requirement for consumer units to be fire-rated was published in BS7671:2018 at the request of the London fire brigade who reported a large number fires starting in consumer units.
@@alliedelectricalservicesltd That's an interesting insight into the history of British electrical standards, thank you for the fact.