I'm not so sure. If this was wired 40 years ago, connecting it to any nearby earthy object would in many cases have been considered ok. And any nearby earthy object is effectively a relatively high impedance earth, one that we cant assume will blow the fuse quickly, if at all.
40 years is a lot of time for bodgers to do their work.Even when told, novices generally still dont appreciate the problem enough to make them safe imho.
NT
AIUI if he had said 'is this suitable for my house' he would be due a refund, as it isnt suitable. In practice its unlikely that the staff member will know what was or wasnt said, so such refunds are often given, and thats the primary point.
NT
The lamp was taken back to B&Q today for a full refund - no questions asked (well, apart from "Is it faulty?" so that they can restock it).
I'll tell Dad not to use his current light until something is done about the wiring.
I'm going to buy him a stepladder instead - much safer! :o)
Thanks for the help everybody - you may have saved a life!!!
Daz
Or maybe the opposite. A stepladder is much more risk than an unearthed light fitting. But then if it replaces a table and chair its reducing risk... and if this reduction in risk encuorages more frequent use it adds risk... who said life was simple!
NT
Exactly... I'll tell him to use it as an ornament - that should do the trick.
Watch out for the headline "Man Killed in Freak Ornamental Stepladder Disaster"!!!
:o)
Daz
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