Un-switched sockets controlled remotely from below are perfectly acceptable. The same sort of thing as having a socket behind your washing machine and controlling it with a Double Pole switch from above the worktop.
Hi all
Not quite DIY, but I tend to get roped into this stuff one way or another.
Is it within regs/accepted practice/advisable to have mains sockets above the suspended ceiling?
We are about to have video conferencing equipment installed. The company involved say that it is common practice to have all the cabling going up a common trunk into the false ceiling space and that sockets are regularly fitted up there for plugging in their gizzmos.
This does not look good practice! If you need to turn the power off, you need a pair of ladders and knowledge of the socket whereabouts.
Phil
That was my reaction, but not what was proposed. The installer claimed that it was common practice to have switched sockets in the false ceiling space, not necessarily separately switched from an accessible point!
Phil
Then tell them they can't on health and safety grounds, and they need to install some sort of full isolation gear at an accessible position. They are correct though, and the system they have proposed is perfectly safe and normal, but if you feel that the set up isn't to your taste, then get them to change it. There is nothing wrong with having socket in the ceiling voids if they are installed to the proper regulations for that area, but it is safer to have easily accessible points of full isolation in case of problems.
He's right, it is. I'm not commenting on the safety aspect but I've seen switched sockets above suspended ceiling many times before. They are used to disguise a great many electrical horrors. Perhaps technically the ceiling is considered a decorative feature.
Incidently take a look at the stage/dance floor lighting gantry next time you are in Spearmint Rhino (or similar establishments). You'll see switched sockets 20ft off the ground in a public room so they must be within the regs.
riccip
Thanks Fellas
I am amazed that something which appears to the layman as obviously unsafe (from an operational point of view) is still within regs!
Phil
As long as the design for loading, cable management and safety isolation devices (MCB etc.) are all within the requirements, then it's safe. Where the sockets are doesn't really matter after that. You can install a socket in your bath if you do it with all the proper designs in its use and safety. So I've heard anyway. :-) LOL
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