CHAPTER 6: PERFORMING ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION

Unit of learning code ENG/CU/EI/CR/02/5

Related Unit of Competency in Occupational Standard: Perform Electrical Installation

6.1 Introduction to Electrical installation

This unit specifies the competencies required for performing electrical installation. Competencies required
includes; applying health, safety and environmental standards, preparation of working drawings,
assembling of tools, equipment, materials and drawing instruments, performing electrical installation,
facilitating other service providers and maintain housekeeping.

6.2 Summary of Learning Outcomes

1. Apply health, safety and environmental standards.

2. Prepare working drawings.
3. Assemble tools, equipment, materials and drawing instruments.
4. Perform electrical Installation
5. Facilitate other service providers
om

6. Maintain housekeeping.
.c
et
tv

6.2.1 Learning Outcome 1: Apply Health, Safety and Environmental standards

sy
ea

6.2.1.1 Introduction to the learning outcome

To apply EHS standards, the learner needs to understand relevant clauses in appropriate acts
(OSHA, WIBA and EMCA), relevant regulations on IEE, KPLC by-laws, county by-laws, meaning,
purpose, types and correct handling of PPEs, the causes of accidents and their sources, classes of
fire and firefighting equipment and first aid procedures
6.2.1.2 Performance Standard
6.2.1.2.1 Apply appropriate safety regulations.
6.2.1.2.2 Apply Occupational health and safety standards.
6.2.1.2.3 Apply Good housekeeping practices.
6.2.1.2.4 Record and report accident, incidents and near misses to the management.
6.2.1.2.5 Apply First aid and seek specialised treatment when necessary.
6.2.1.3 Information Sheet
An accident
It is a sudden happening that causes harm to the body suddenly and unexpectedly.
First Aid
This is the first help given to a person who is injured before taking them to a health center or hospital or it
is the first treatment given to an accident victim before regular medical treatment is obtained.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
the term ‘personal protective equipment’ (PPE) refers to a vast group of products (e.g. safety helmets, safety
footwear and harnesses, eye protection, gloves, high-visibility clothing, etc.) designed with the aim to
protect users against low-, medium- and high-level hazards. This group of products is regulated by
the European Directive (EU) 2016/425
Safety
This is the behaviour undertaken to prevent injury to people and damage to machines and equipment.
Electric shock
This is the passage of electricity in the human body
The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OSHA)
om

The act provides for the health, safety and welfare of persons employed, and all persons lawfully present
.c
et

at workplaces and related matters. It is obligatory for an occupier to provide and maintain plant and systems
tv
sy

and procedures of work that are safe and without risk to workers' health. Employer must ensure safety and
ea

absence of risks to health in connection with the use, handling, storage and transport of articles and
substances. Provision of such information, instruction, training and supervision of workers as is necessary
is very crucial maintain safe and healthy workplace.
Workplace and work environment that is safe, without health risks and adequate as regards facilities and
arrangements for the worker's welfare at work should be maintained. Workers should be well informed of
any risks and imminent danger related to new technologies and they should participate in the application
and review of safety and health measures.
Occupier must also ensure proper cleanliness, ventilation, lighting, drainage of floor, sanitary convenience,
avoid overcrowding and control air pollution, noise and vibration at the workplace. Every occupier is
required to establish a safety and health committee at the workplace in accordance with regulations
prescribed under the law.
Preventive and protective measures should be taken after proper risk assessment (at least once a year) to
ensure that all chemicals, machinery, equipment, tools and process are safe and without risk to health and
comply with the requirements of safety and health provisions in this Act. An occupier who fails to comply
with a duty imposed on him commits an offence and he/she is liable to a fine not exceeding 500,000
shillings or to imprisonment up to six months or to both.
All the above provisions are applicable also to the mine workers, as enunciated under the Mines Act 2016.
Free Protection
In accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act 2007, it is the responsibility of employer to
provide free protective equipment including clothing and appliances, and where necessary, suitable gloves,
footwear, goggles and head coverings to the workers involved in hazardous work. The type of PPE needed
varies depending on the nature of work being performed. The right use of PPE reduces risk of accident and
illness and helps in creation of safer working environment.
Safety consultant, registered by the Director, assesses the suitability and effectiveness of protective clothes
and appliances.
Training
In accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act 2007, it is the responsibility of an employer
to provide instruction, training and supervision as is necessary to ensure health and safety at work of his
workers.
Employment of worker at any machine or in any process that may cause ill health or bodily injury is
prohibited unless worker has been fully instructed about the hazards involved and precautions that must
be observed. Worker should be properly trained or required to work under supervision of experienced
persons.
om
.c

The training is carried out on recruitment; transfer or change of job; introduction of new work equipment
et
tv
sy

or materials or change in equipment or materials; and introduction of new technology. The training must
ea

be arranged regularly at workplace during working hours and adapted accordingly with the new and
changed risks.
Employer must ensure that all the persons involved in work must receive appropriate instructions
regarding safety and health risks including emergency procedures during their activities at the workplace
and actions to be taken in case of an emergency.
If a person fails to comply with these provisions, he/she commits an offence and is liable to a fine up to
200,000 shillings or to imprisonment up to six months or to both.
Labour inspection system
Labour inspection system is present in Kenya. Occupational Safety and Health Act provides for a vibrant
Labour inspection system (part IV).
The Occupational Safety, Health and Injury Benefits Authority (OSHIBA) is responsible for the
implementation of occupational health and safety, for improving and ensuring health, safety, security and
good working conditions at the enterprises, inspecting enterprises and ensuring the law enforcement.
The national legislation provides inspectors the power to enter, inspect and examine the work premises at
any time during day or night with or without prior notice; take measurements, photographs, samples and
make recordings for the purpose of examination and investigation; ask for registers, documents,
certificates and notices to inspect, examine and copy them; interview any one; if the inspector is a
medical practitioner he/she may carry out medical examinations; and may take police officer along with
him/her if necessary.
If an occupier or his representatives do not facilitate the inspector and obstruct the execution of his duties,
he/she commits an offence and is liable to a fine up to 100,000 shillings or to imprisonment up to six months
or to both.
Labour inspectors are authorized to conduct proceedings arising under this Act; to obtain samples of any
substance used or intended to be used at workplace; to deal with the cause of imminent danger by seizing
it or causing it to be rendered harmless; and issue notices (improvement or prohibition). Inspector must not
disclose any information obtained during the course of his/her duty, otherwise he/she is liable (Work Injury
Benefits Act, 2007)le to a fine up to 100,000 shillings.

Work injury benefits act (WIBA)

Work Injury Benefits Act, 2007 (WIBA, 2007) is subordinate to The Constitution of Kenya, 2010. Enacted
th
in 2007, WIBA, 2007 is still effective by virtue of section 7 of the 6 Schedule of the Constitution.
Article 41 of the Constitution gives right to every individual to entitlement of reasonable working
conditions.
om

One of the work conditions is compensation of injuries sustained at work by workers.

.c
et

WIBA, 2007 provides for compensation of injuries sustained at work.

tv
sy

A number of sections in WIBA, 2007 were however nullified by high court in petition No. 185 of 2008 by
ea

LSK and to this date the sections remain unconstitutional. The sections include: -
- 4, 7(1) and (4), 10(4), 16, 23(1), 25(1) and (3), 52(1) and (2), 58(2)
Work injury benefits act, 2007
This Act is applicable to all employees except the armed forces (the army, air force and navy).
For the purpose of the Act, the following persons are not regarded as employees: -
• Casual employee not employed for the employer’s trade or business.
• An employee deployed outside Kenya for a continuous period of 12 or more months.
• A dependent – Any person who at the time of the accident is dependent upon the employee for
necessaries of life.
Employer’s obligations
• Register with the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services
• Repair, maintain and replace when necessary appliances for use of victim due to the condition
inflicted by the accident
• Furnish the Director with particulars of the business.
• Keep a register for at least 6 years of earning and other employee records and produce it to the
Director when required.
 • Send notice of occurrence of an accident to the Director
• Convey the accident victim to and from hospital
• Provide first aid to the injured person
• Defray any expenses reasonably incurred by an employee as the result of an accident arising out of
and in the course of employment
• Pay compensation to an employee injured while at work.
• Pay reasonable funeral expenses of a deceased employee.
Right of compensation
• An employee who is involved in an accident resulting in disablement or death is subject and entitled
to compensation.
• An employee on his/her way to/from place of work by means of transport provided by the employer
is entitled to compensation if injured in the process.
• An employee temporarily deployed outside Kenya for a period of 12 or less months and injured
during that deployment has right of compensation.
• An employee injured while undertaking training for performance of emergency services
Not eligible for compensation
om

• Misconduct and if the accident is not serious.

.c
et

NB. An accident is deemed serious if the degree of disablement is 40% or more.

tv
sy
ea

• An employee who willingly presents false information about the injury is not entitled to
compensation
• An employee whose disablement or death was caused or prolonged by deliberate refusal or willful
neglect of employee to submit to medical aid.
• If an accident is not reported within 12 months, then the benefits are lost.
Reporting of Accidents
• To the employer by the employee or on behalf of the employee immediately upon occurrence of the
accident.
• To the Director by the employer
i. Within 24 hours if fatal
ii. Within 7 days if non-fatal
• The employee may also report the accident to the Director directly.
The director
• May make inquiry into the occurrence of the accident
• May cause medical examination to be carried out on the claimant
• May require production of medical report by the employer for the purpose of the claim
 • May lodge a claim of compensation within 12 months after the date of the accident on behalf of
the injured or 12 months after the death of an accident victim if the accident was not reported to
the Director.
• May convey the compensation funds to the claimant within 30 days from the date of remittance by
employer/insurer.
The injured person just like any other person has a right to fair administrative action pursuant to article 47
of the Constitution.
The Director of Occupational Safety and Health services has a duty of administering WIBA, 2007.
Being a public servant, he is bound by article 232 of the Constitution to uphold values and principles of
public service bearing in mind provisions of article 47 in the discharge of duties outlined in WIBA, 2007.
It follows for other public servants e.g. the Director of WIBA, 2007 and implied officers working under the
2 Directors in the Act’s spirit.
Compensation
An accident disabling a worker for 3 or more days should be compensated with periodical payment
equivalent to employees’ earnings but not for a period of exceeding 12 months.
Compensation expires upon termination of disablement or if the employee resumes work of greater earnings
Permanent disablement = Monthly salary x percentage of incapacity x 96 months
om
.c

Percentage of incapacity may be determined by the doctor attending to the injured.

et
tv
sy

Earning in respect of temporary incapacity will be equivalent to the periodical earnings while away if the
ea

accident victim was not paid while away.

Occupational Diseases
• These are diseases arising from the work conditions where the employee was engaged. On the event of
occurrence of an occupational disease, an employee is entitled to compensation whereby the percentage
of incapacity is determined by the doctor.
Appeals
• Any person aggrieved by the decision of the Director is to lodge an objection to the Director within 60
days of such decision.
• The Director is to reply within 14 days. If not satisfied by the reply, the objector to appeal to the
industrial court.
Functions of the Director of WIBA
• Register employers
• Supervise implementation of WIBA
• Ensure all employers insure their employees
• Receive reports of accidents and carry out investigations
• Ensure compensation of the injured
General Penalty
200,000/= fine or a jail term not exceeding 12 months or both
It is not explicit as to whom delegated prosecutorial powers are vested in WIBA, 2007.
Contravention of provisions of WIBA, 2007 is criminal and their provisions of Criminal Procedure Code
Cap. 75 and the Evidence Act Cap.80 come into play during prosecution.
Article 157 of the Constitution establishes the office Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in whom powers
of prosecution of all criminal cases are vested.
Courts before whom WIBA, 2007 cases are brought have judicial authority as provided for in article 159
The state has a duty to ensure access to justice by any person aggrieved in matters relating to compensation
in line the requirement of article 48.
Persons coming within purview of action under the provisions of the WIBA, 2007 have rights as enshrined
in articles 49, 50 and 51 of the constitution.
In conclusion
WIBA, 2007 is compliant to the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 by being explicitly in line with the following
th
articles and section of Schedules: - articles 41, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 157, 159, 232 and section 7 of the 6
Schedule.
om

The IEE wiring regulations BS 7671

.c
et
tv

Protection of persons and livestock from shock and burns, etc. and the prevention of damage to property
sy
ea

are priorities. In consequence, therefore, thorough inspection and testing of an installation and subsequent
remedial work where necessary will significantly reduce the risks. Electric shock is the passage of current
through the body of such magnitude as to have significant harmful effects. Figure 1 illustrates the generally
accepted effects of current passing through the human body. There are two ways in which we can be at
risk:

1. Touching live parts of equipment or systems that are intended to be live.

2. Touching conductive parts which are not meant to be live, but have become live due to a fault.
The conductive parts associated with the second of these can either be metalwork of electrical equipment
and accessories (Class I) and that of electrical wiring systems such as metallic conduit and trunking, etc.
called exposed conductive parts, or other metalwork such as pipes, radiators, girders, etc. called extraneous
conductive parts.
 Figure 227 Shock levels
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Protection against shock from both types of contact

One method of achieving this is by ensuring that the system voltage does not exceed extra low (50 V ac,
120 V ripple-free dc), and that all associated wiring, etc. is separated from all other circuits of a higher
voltage and Earth. Such a system is known as a separated extra low voltage (SELV). If an SELV system
exceeds 25 V ac, 60 V ripple-free dc, then extra protection must be provided by barriers, enclosures and
insulation.
Basic protection
Apart from SELV, we can minimize the risk of such contact, and this may be achieved in one or more of
the following ways:
1. Insulate any live parts.
2. Ensure that any uninsulated live parts are housed in suitable enclosures and/or are behind barriers.
3. Place obstacles in the way. (This method would only be used in areas where skilled and/or
authorized persons were involved.)
 4. Placing live parts out of reach. (Once again, only used in special circumstances, e.g. live rail.
A residual current device (RCD) may be used as additional protection to any of the other measures taken,
provided that it is rated at 30 mA or less and has an operating time of not more than 40 ms at a test current
of five times its operating current. It should be noted that RCDs are not the panacea for all electrical ills,
they can malfunction, but they are a valid and effective back-up to the other methods. They must not be
used as the sole means of protection.
Fault protection
Protection against shock from contact with unintentionally live, exposed or extraneous conductive parts
whilst touching earth, or from contact between unintentionally live exposed and/or extraneous conductive
parts can be achieved by using protective earthing, protective equipotential bonding and automatic
disconnection in case of a fault. All extraneous conductive parts are connected with a main protective
bonding conductor and connected to the main earthing terminal, and all exposed conductive parts are
connected to the main earthing terminal by the circuit protective conductors (CPC). Add to this over-current
protection that will operate fast enough when a fault occurs and the risk of severe electric shock is
significantly reduced. Other means of fault protection may be used, but are less common and some require
very strict supervision
Use of class ii equipment
om
.c

Often referred to as double-insulated equipment, this is typical of modern appliances where there is no
et
tv
sy

provision for the connection of a CPC. This does not mean that there should be no exposed conductive parts
ea

and that the casing of equipment should be of an insulating material; it simply indicates that live parts are
so well insulated that faults from live to conductive parts cannot occur.
Non-conducting location
This is basically an area in which the floor, walls and ceiling are all insulated. Within such an area there
must be no protective conductors, and socket outlets will have no earthing connections. It must not be
possible simultaneously to touch two exposed conductive parts, or an exposed conductive part and an
extraneous conductive part. This requirement clearly prevents shock current passing through a person in
the event of an earth fault, and the insulated construction prevents shock current passing to earth.
Earth-free local equipotential bonding
This is in essence a Faraday cage, where all metal is bonded together but not to earth. Obviously, great care
must be taken when entering such a zone in order to avoid differences in potential between inside and
outside. The areas mentioned in this and the previous method are very uncommon. Where they do exist,
they should be under constant supervision to ensure that no additions or alterations can lessen the protection
intended
Electrical separation
This method relies on a supply from a safety source such as an isolating transformer to BS EN 61558-2-6
which has no earth connection on the secondary side. In the event of a circuit that is supplied from a source
developing a live fault to an exposed conductive part, there would be no path for shock current to flow (see
Figure 2). Once again, great care must be taken to maintain the integrity of this type of system, as an
inadvertent connection to earth, or interconnection with other circuits, would render the protection useless.
Additional protection by RCDs is a useful back-up to other methods of shock protection. The use of
enclosures is not limited to protection against shock from contact with live parts, they clearly provide
protection against the ingress of foreign bodies and moisture. In order to establish to what degree an
enclosure can resist such ingress, reference to the Index of Protection (IP) code (BS EN 60529) should be
made. Table 0.1 illustrates part of the IP code. The most commonly quoted IP codes in the 17th edition are
IPXXB or IP2X, and IPXXD or IP4X. The X denotes that protection is not specified, not that there is no
protection. For example, an enclosure that was to be immersed in water would be classified IPX8, there
would be no point using the code IP68.

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 228 Current flow when not earth

Environmental management and coordination (amendment) act, 2015

The Environmental Management and Coordination Act, 1999, was amended to comply with the
Constitution and integrate emerging environmental issues. The Environmental Management and
Coordination (Amendment) Act (EMCA) provides the framework law for environmental conservation,
management and coordination. Through EMCA, the government has attempted to harmonize policy
regulations for the management of natural resources in Kenya. The EMCA provides for the protection of
forests and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of forestry related developments. The institutions
formed under EMCA are:
• National Environment Management Authority,

• National Environmental Complaints Committee,

• National Environment Tribunal,

• National Environment Action Plan Committees and;

 • County Environment Committees.

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) was established as the lead agency of
government charged with the implementation of all policies relating to the environment, and to exercise
general supervision and coordination over all matters relating to the environment. In consultation with lead
agencies, like KFS, NEMA is empowered to develop regulations, prescribe measures and standards and,
issue guidelines for the management and conservation of natural resources and the environment.
Provisions of the Act relevant to forestry a) Environmental Protection
The right to a clean and healthy environment was first acknowledged in the EMCA, 1999. This right has
now been elevated to constitutional status. The EMCA provides for environmental protection through;
Environmental Impact Assessments, Strategic Environmental Assessments, Environmental Audits and
monitoring as well as environmental restoration orders, conservation orders, and easements. The Act is
based on principles such as: the precautionary principle, the polluter-pays principle, environmental
restoration and compensation to victims of pollution. These principles also apply in the Forest Conservation
and Management Act (FCMA, 2016). Section 44 provides that the KFS must consider the aforementioned
before granting concessions and mining permits within a forest reserve. Section 28 of EMCA also provides
that persons engaged in activities that are most likely to have adverse environmental effects must pay
om

deposit bonds equivalent to the cost of environmental restoration. This is the Environmental Protection
.c
et
tv

Bond in the FCMA, 2016. The Amendment Act is also based on principles of sustainable development
sy
ea

such as public participation, cultural and social principles, the principle of international co-operation in the
case of shared environmental resources and the principle of intra-generational and intergenerational equity.
Protection of the rights of forest adjacent communities
Traditional interests of forest adjacent communities are also protected in the EMCA (Section 43). The Act
also promotes community conservation of forests.
The roles of County governments in environmental management
The EMCA has included the role of County governments in forest management through formation of a
County Environment Committee (CEC) in Section 29. The committee will be in charge of proper
management of the environment within the county for which it is appointed, including forestry functions
such as provision of extension services to individuals and communities within their jurisdiction.
Functions of NEMA related to forestry
The NEMA, which is the lead implementing agency of EMCA, is mandated to promote the integration of
environmental considerations into national development goals, conduct the valuation of natural resources
in the country, review land use guidelines in consultation with other lead agencies and make
recommendations to the relevant authorities. It is also mandated to promote environmental education,
public awareness and public participation in environmental management, encourage incentives for
voluntary environmental conservation practices and work with other lead agencies to issue guidelines and
prescribe measures for the attainment of at least 10% tree cover of the land area of Kenya.
Registration of forests
Section 48 of EMCA outlines the procedure regarding registration of forests. NEMA and the Chief
Conservator of Forests, following consultations, may enter into contractual arrangements with private
owners for the registration of land as forest land.
Climate change mitigation and adaptation
The EMCA expressly provides for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Section 56 states that the
Cabinet Secretary, in consultation with relevant lead agencies will issue guidelines and prescribe measures
on climate change. The Act also has provisions for the protection of wetlands in Section 42. The Act
restricts introduction of alien species to the environment, which coincides with the provisions of the FCMA,
2016.
Dispute resolution mechanisms under the Act
The EMCA gives power to citizens to apply for redress on environmental issues, whether affected directly
or indirectly. Specifically, the establishment of the National Environmental Complaints Committee in
Section 31 and the National Environment Tribunal in Article 125 to address environmental grievances. The
Land and Environment Court formed under the Environment and Land Act, 2011 will also be charged with
om
.c

handling appeals of environmental grievances as well as forest-based conflicts. These institutions were
et
tv
sy

established to provide the link between environmental management and the judiciary.
ea

Forest conservation and management

Section 124A of the Act provides for the development of legislation by NEMA and lead institutions. In
collaboration with KFS, NEMA will develop, issue and implement regulations, procedures, guidelines and
measures for the sustainable use of forests, to control harvesting, protect water catchment areas, prevent
soil erosion and regulate human settlement. Article 46 of the Act requires that every County Environment
Committee (CEC) should identify areas for afforestation and reforestation as well as encourage community
members to plant trees. Article 49 (d) of EMCA also provides for the promotion of renewable energy
through planting of trees and woodlots by individual, communities and institutions.
Conservation of biodiversity
Sections 50 and 51 of the Act provides for the conservation of biological diversity. The Act requires NEMA
to prepare an inventory on biological diversity and specific conservation measures, including in situ and ex
situ conservation, identifying endangered, rare or threatened species, identifying potential threats to
biodiversity, prohibiting and controlling the introduction of alien species into natural habitats and
protection of indigenous knowledge among others. Section 8 of the FCMA, 2016 has a similar provision.
The EMCA also provides for the protection of genetic resources and environmentally significant areas
(Section 53 and 54).
The IEE Wiring Regulations 17th edition requirements for electrical installations
The Institution of Electrical Engineers Requirements for Electrical Installations (the IEE Regulations) are
non-statutory regulations. They relate principally to the design, selection, erection, inspection and testing
of electrical installations, whether permanent or temporary, in and about buildings generally and to
agricultural and horticultural premises, construction sites and caravans and their sites. Paragraph 7 of the
introduction to the EWR says: ‘the IEE Wiring Regulations is a code of practice which is widely recognized
and accepted in Kenya and compliance with them is likely to achieve compliance with all relevant aspects
of the Electricity at Work Regulations’. The IEE Wiring Regulations are the National Standard in Kenya
and apply to installations. However, they do not apply to electrical installations in mines and quarries,
where special regulations apply because of the adverse conditions experienced there.
The current edition of the IEE Wiring Regulations is the 17th edition 2008. The main reason for
incorporating the IEE Wiring Regulations into British Standard BS 7671: 2008 was to create harmonization
with world Standards.
The IEE Regulations take account of the technical intent of the CENELEC world, which in turn are based
on the IEC International Standards.
The purpose in harmonizing Standards is to help develop a single market economy so that there are no trade
barriers to electrical goods and services across the world Economic Area.
om
.c

To assist electricians in their understanding of the Regulations a number of guidance notes have been
et
tv
sy

published. The guidance notes which I will frequently make reference to in this book are those contained
ea

in the On-Site Guide. Eight other guidance notes booklets are also currently available. These are:
• Selection and Erection
• Isolation and Switching
• Inspection and Testing
• Protection against Fire
• Protection against Electric Shock
• Protection against Overcurrent
• Special Locations
• Earthing and Bonding
These guidance notes are intended to be read in conjunction with the Regulations.
The IEE Wiring Regulations are the electrician’s bible and provide the authoritative framework of
information for anyone working in the electrotechnical industry.
Common causes of workplace accidents
1. Lifting
It is so easy to injure yourself while lifting heavy objects. Eliminate back injuries and muscle strains by
ensuring that everyone practices safe lifting procedures. It’s always best to recruit a helping hand or to use
machinery to move large objects.
2. Lighting
Poor lighting can be a major cause of trips, falls, and other workplace injuries. If you can’t see the hazards,
they’re much more likely to become serious problems. Every area in the workplace should be well lit,
including offices, warehouses, parking areas, and outside entryways.
3. Violence
Hundreds of people die each year from workplace violence. Employees in conflict with one another tend
to be especially unsafe when working together. OSHA has guidelines for violence prevention if you need
help resolving these issues in your workplace.
4. Trips/Falls
Consistently one of the leading causes of workplace injuries, trips and falls continue to be a major problem.
Slippery floors, improper footwear, rushing employees, and weather conditions all contribute to trip and
fall hazards. Make sure all employees are well trained on the relevant safety information and verify that the
om
.c

physical conditions in the workplace are up to standards to lower the number of injuries in this category.
et
tv
sy

5. Stress
ea

Physical and mental stress are less commonly recognized workplace hazards, but they can cause serious or
even fatal accidents. Employees must be in the right mindset and physically sound for the job.
Communicate the importance of mental and physical health to all employees. It’s important to take breaks
and seek help with managing stressful situations.
6. Fatigue
As mentioned before, it is imperative that employees show up to work physically prepared. A lack of
adequate sleep can cause exhaustion, inattention, and accidents. Even a well-rested employee can grow
fatigued while on the job, so it’s necessary to take breaks at regular intervals or when needed.
7. Shortcuts
Employees should never take shortcuts on the jobs, especially when dealing with dangerous machinery or
circumventing safety procedures. The regulations are in place to protect employees and to make sure
everything is done correctly.
8. Overconfidence
Employees should be confident about what they’re doing, but overconfidence may diminish carefulness or
attention. Overconfident employees are likely to ignore safety precautions and forego double checking their
work. It’s important for them to understand that accidents can occur any time to anyone, no matter how
skilled or experienced.
 9. Poor Housekeeping
A messy workplace is a dangerous workplace. Objects and debris on the floors pose tripping hazards, wet
or dirty floors can cause slips, cluttered surfaces can conceal sharp objects, poorly contained chemicals are
an obvious hazard… you get the picture. Besides the dangers, good housekeeping sets a good example for
other safety precautions as well.
10. Lack of Preparation
No one should ever be on the job without the proper knowledge, training, certifications, tools, or PPE.
Preparedness on the job is one of the absolute best ways for employees to stay safe.
11. Mental Distractions
It’s easier said than done, but employees must try to leave personal matters at the door. Being distracted on
the job is similar to being fatigued, stressed, or overconfident. Workers simply cannot perform their jobs
to their full potential if their mind is elsewhere.
Have you noticed any of these behaviors in your workplace? It may be time to set up some refresher training
to reduce the risk of injuries and improve overall performance in your organization. Better safe than sorry,
as they say.
Personal Protective equipment (PPE)
PPE, falling under the scope of the above-mentioned Directive, is intended for use in work and home
om
.c

activities, as well as in leisure and sport events. Such activities can bring harm to the user’s body in various
et
tv
sy

ways. To be ensured user’s health and safety in any risky situation, a proper type of PPE must be held or
ea

worn. In this regard, there are eight types of personal protective equipment critical for the defense of users
against hazards.
Many people are injured or killed in electrical accidents due to ignorance or carelessness.
There are various safety/protective wear that needs to be used in a work environment.

Figure 229 various safety/ protective wears

 • Safety helmet-Protects head from falling objects
• Goggles-Protects eyes from flying objects and excessive light
• Ear muffles-Protects ears from excessive sound.
• Dust coat/Overall- Protects personal clothing from dirt
• Hand gloves- Protects hands from injury.
• Safety boots- Protects feet from falling objects.
Types of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
a. Head protection
Wearing PPE for head protection will help you avoid any harm that may come to you from falling materials
or swinging objects. Moreover, the head protectors are designed to protect you from knocking against
stationary objects. Some kinds of head protection equipment (e.g. caps and hair nets) can even protect
against entanglement or scalping on machinery.
Examples of head protection equipment:
• Helmets;
• Hard hats;
• Bump Caps;
om

• Guards;
.c
et

• Accessories.
tv
sy

Examples of activities where you may need head protection:

ea

• Workplace related: construction or building repair (e.g. renovation, restoration, etc.) and work in tunnels
or excavations;
• Leisure/Sport related: driving motorcycles.
b. Hand protection
Arms, hands and fingers are often injured and, therefore, it is vital to wear hand protection equipment when
it is required. The hand protection equipment can ensure protection against heat, cold, vibrations, burns,
and cuts by sharp objects, bacteriological risks and chemical contamination. Examples of hand protection
equipment:
• Work gloves and gauntlets;
• Wrist cuff arm nets.
Activities requiring hand protection equipment:
• construction and outdoor work;
• working with vibrating apparatus;
• working in hot or cold environments;
• working with chemicals and hazardous elements;
• Manual handling of abrasive or sharp objects.
 c. Eye and face protection
Numbers are scary! Every day, 600+ workers worldwide suffer from eye injuries. Such injuries can be
avoided simply by wearing the proper eye and face protection equipment. As examples of such PPE can be
mentioned the following ones:
• Safety glasses and goggles;
• Eye and face shields;
• Eyewear accessories;
• Over specs;
• Visors.
You are encouraged and advised to wear eye and face protection equipment when:
• working with lasers or power-driven tools;
• using gas or vapour under pressure;
• performing welding operations;
• Handling hazardous substances.
d. Respiratory protection
The respiratory protection covers a broad group of PPEs: breathing apparatus, full face or half mask
respirators, powered respirators, protective hoods, disposal face masks, detectors, monitors, etc. Adequate
om
.c

training on how users should use the equipment is always required.

et
tv
sy

This type of PPE must be present when being in contact with large amounts of gases, powders, dust and
ea

vapours.
e. Hearing protection
The hearing protection equipment is vital when working in an environment with high-sound levels. The
type of hearing protection should not only be suitable for the working environment but also provide a level
of hygiene and comfort to the users. A good practice is to provide employees with a range of protectors and
then allow them to select the ones which suit them the best.
Examples of hearing protection equipment:
• Earplugs and defenders;
• Noise meters;
• Communications sets;
• Acoustic foam.
f. Foot protection
The foot protection equipment is designed to protect the feet and legs against various hazards, such as
extreme temperatures, crushing, piercing, slipping, cutting, chemicals and electricity. It is typically required
when users are involved in construction activities, working in very cold or hot environments, working with
chemicals and forestry, or when manually handling heavy objects.
As examples of foot protection equipment can be pointed out the following ones:
• Safety boots and shoes;
• Anti-static and conductive footwear.
g. Body protection
Usually, body protection equipment is required in the following cases:
• For protection against weather conditions when working outdoors;
• Ensuring the high-visibility of users when they work in areas where there is a mixed vehicle (e.g. bikes,
motors, cars and busses) and pedestrian traffic;
• For users’ protection against extreme temperatures;
• Ensuring protection against entanglement, drowning, chemical contamination, etc.
Examples of body protection equipment:
• Life jackets;
• Clothing for specific weather conditions;
• High-visibility clothing;
• Harnesses, and others.
h. Height and access protection
This type is highly specialized, and it usually requires users to undergo thorough training before they are
allowed to use it. The height and access protection equipment must be inspected periodically by a competent
om
.c

person to ensure it is still fit for use and the health and safety of users is not threatened in any way.
et
tv
sy

As examples of height and access protection equipment can be mentioned the following ones:
ea

• Fall-arrest systems;
• Body harnesses;
• Lowering harnesses;
• Rescue lifting;
• Energy absorbers, and others
Types of Fires

I. Class A
Class A fires are fires in ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and many plastics
II. Class B
Class B fires are fires in flammable liquids such as gasoline, petroleum greases, tars, oils, oil-based paints,
solvents, alcohols. Class B fires also include flammable gases such as propane and butane. Class B fires do
not include fires involving cooking oils and grease
III. Class C
Class C fires are fires involving energized electrical equipment such as computers, servers, motors,
transformers, and appliances. Remove the power and the Class C fire becomes one of the other classes of
fire.
 IV. Class D
Class D fires are fires in combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium, sodium, lithium, and
potassium.
V. Class K
Class K fires are fires in cooking oils and greases such as animal and vegetable fats.
Types of Fire Extinguishers
I. Water and Foam
Water and Foam fire extinguishers extinguish the fire by taking away the heat element of the fire triangle.
Foam agents also separate the oxygen element from the other elements. Water extinguishers are for Class
A fires only - they should not be used on Class B or C fires. The discharge stream could spread the
flammable liquid in a Class B fire or could create a shock hazard on a Class C fire.
II. Carbon Dioxide
Carbon Dioxide fire extinguishers extinguish fire by taking away the oxygen element of the fire triangle
and also be removing the heat with a very cold discharge. Carbon dioxide can be used on Class B & C fires.
They are usually ineffective on Class A fires.
III. Dry Chemical
Dry Chemical fire extinguishers extinguish the fire primarily by interrupting the chemical reaction of the
om
.c

fire triangle.
et
tv
sy

Today's most widely used type of fire extinguisher is the multipurpose dry chemical that is effective on
ea

Class A, B, and C fires. This agent also works by creating a barrier between the oxygen element and
the fuel element on Class A fires. Ordinary dry chemical is for Class B & C fires only. It is important to
use the correct extinguisher for the type of fuel! Using the incorrect agent can allow the fire to re-ignite
after apparently being extinguished successfully.
IV. Wet Chemical
Wet Chemical is a new agent that extinguishes the fire by removing the heat of the fire triangle and prevents
re-ignition by creating a barrier between the oxygen and fuel elements. Wet chemical of Class K
extinguishers was developed for modern, high efficiency deep fat fryers in commercial cooking operations.
Some may also be used on Class A fires in commercial kitchens.
V. Clean Agent
Halogenated or Clean Agent extinguishers include the halon agents as well as the newer and less ozone
depleting halocarbon agents. They extinguish the fire by interrupting the chemical
reaction and/or removing heat from the fire triangle.
Clean agent extinguishers are effective on Class A, B and C fires. Smaller sized handheld extinguishers are
not large enough to obtain a 1A rating and may carry only a Class B and C rating.
VI. Dry Powder
Dry Powder extinguishers are similar to dry chemical except that they extinguish the fire by separating
the fuel from the oxygen element or by removing the heat element of the fire triangle. However, dry
powder extinguishers are for Class D or combustible metal fires, only. They are ineffective on all other
classes of fires.
VII. Cartridge Operated Dry Chemical
Cartridge Operated Dry Chemical fire extinguishers extinguish the fire primarily by interrupting
the chemical reaction of the fire triangle. Like the stored pressure dry chemical extinguishers, the
multipurpose dry chemical is effective on Class A, B, and C fires. This agent also works by creating a
barrier between the oxygen element and the fuel element on Class A fires.
Ordinary dry chemical is for Class B & C fires only. It is important to use the correct extinguisher for the
type of fuel! Using the incorrect agent can allow the fire to re-ignite after apparently being extinguished
successfully.

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 230 Fire extinguishers and their applications (colour codes to BSEN3:1996)
 Rescuing electric shock victim
When a person gets into contact with a live wire and gets an electric shock, the following steps should be
followed to save the victim:
1. Switch off the current if possible if not do not waste
2. Secure release from contact. Safeguard yourself when removing the casualty from the contact. Use
a dry insulator to remove the victim from electrical contact e.g. rubber, mat gloves, a length of dry
rope or a length of dry wood to pull or push the casualty away from the contact
3. Start respiratory resuscitation once the casualty is not breathing. Use the method known best.
Continue until casualty is breathing satisfactorily.
4. Send for a doctor and ambulance immediately.
Methods of resuscitation
I. Kiss of life
The procedure for this method of artificial respiration is as follows.
• Place a support below the neck and loosen the clothing.
• Clear all air passages.
• Pinch the nose and breathe into victim’s mouth until the chest rises.
om

• Release the nose and let the air rush out.

.c
et

• Continue with this process until the victim breathes normally.

tv
sy

•
ea

Take the victim to hospital for further medical check-up.

Figure 231 Kiss of life method

II. Holger-Nielsen method of artificial respiration

• Lay the casualty in a prone position on a flat surface.
• Place the casualty’s hands one over the other under his forehead
• The hand must be turned slightly on one side.
• Nose and mouth must be unobstructed.
 • Place one knee with its inner side in line with the casualty’s cheek, a few inches from the top of his
head.
• Place the other foot with the heel in line with the casualty’s elbow.
• Place your hands on the casualty’s back on the lower part of the shoulders back, fingers pointing at
casualty’s feet.
• Keeping the arms straight, rock forward gently until arms are vertical. The movement takes seconds
counting ONE,TWO.This pressure causes expiration
• Then rock back counting, THREE for one second, and slide your hand past the casualty’s shoulder until
you can grab his upper arms near the elbows.
• Rise and pull the arms until tension is felt for two seconds counting FOUR, FIVE.
Do not raise chest from ground. This movement causes inspiration.
• Your hands should remain straight, count SIX for one second.

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 232 Holger- Nielsen method

III. Revised Silvester Method

Place the victim on his back. First loosen his clothes around the chest and stomach. Remove false teeth, if
any and put a pillow under the shoulders, so that his chest will be rise up and head will titled backward.
The tongue should be drawn forward. The rescuer must stand beside the victim in the position shown in fig
7 Grasp the victim just below the elbows. Draw his arm over his head until horizontal, retaining them for
two seconds. Next, bring the victim’s arms down on each side of his chest and pressing inwards upon it.
Leaning upon his arm so as to compress his chest. Remain in his position for two seconds and then again
keep repeating the two motions at the same rate. If one more person is present, he should be asked to draw
out victims tongue at each action of the victim’s lungs inflating and deflating. Be careful in this method to
avoid any injury to internal organs resulting from excessive and sudden pressures. Do not give anything to
drink to a victim until he is conscious.
 Figure 233 Revised Sylvester method

IV. Schafer’s Method

The subject is laid in prone position and a small pillow is placed underneath the chest and epigastrium.
The head is turned to one side. The operator kneels down by the side of the subject facing towards his
om

head. Two hands are placed on the two sides of the lower part of the chest and then the operator slowly
.c
et
tv

puts his body weight leaning forwards and pressing upon the loins of the subject. Intra-abdominal
sy
ea

pressure rises, the diaphragm is pushed up and air is forced out of the lungs.
After this the operator releases the pressure and comes back to his original erect position. The abdominal
pressure falls, diaphragm descends and air is drawn in. These movements are repeated about twelve times
a minute (roughly the normal rate of respiration).
By this means it is possible to have a total pulmonary ventilation of 6,500 ml per minute, and this amount
is sufficient for complete aeration of blood. The advantage of this method is that the patient being in the
prone position, mucus or saliva comes out of the mouth and cannot obstruct his airways.

Figure 234 Schafer's method of artificial respiration

6.2.1.4 Learning Activities
Project/workshop

Practical activity Knowledge Special instruction

1. Demonstrate the • Relevant safety

knowledge on safety regulations
regulations in the
workshop
2. Demonstrate knowledge • OSHA, WIBA, EMCA
of OSHA standards in the
workshop
3. Demonstrate good • Housekeeping elements
housekeeping practices in
the workshop.

4. Demonstrate how to write • Causes of accidents

reports on accidents,
incidents and near misses
5. Demonstrate the first aid • Firefighting
om

procedures and methods equipment

.c

in the field, identify the • Methods of

et
tv

various PPEs, identify resuscitation

sy
ea

various firefighting • PPEs types and

equipment applications

6.2.1.5 Self-Assessment
1. What is the meaning of the term PPE
2. What are some of the five pieces of PPE which a trainee could be expected to wear at work and the
protection given by each piece?
3. What are some causes of accidents
4. What types of fire extinguishers do you know? And how or when are they applied?
5. Which two methods of artificial resuscitation do you know?
6.2.1.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Recommended Resources

Tools and equipment Materials and supplies

➢ Cable Strippers
• Stationery
➢ Pliers
• Cables
➢ Screw drivers
• Light fittings
➢ Hammers
• Accessories
➢ Chisels
• Conduits and fittings
➢ Allen keys
• Cable trays
➢ Electrician knives
• Cable ducts
➢ Crimping tools
➢ Bending springs • Trunkings

➢ Bending machine • Computers

➢ Steel tapes • Drawing instruments

➢ Draw wires • Screws

➢ Hack saws
om

➢ Drilling tools
.c
et

➢ Stock and die

tv
sy

➢ Bench vice
ea

➢ Machine vice
➢ PPE – hand gloves, dust coats, dust
masks, helmets, ear muffs, industrial
boots
Reference materials

• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards
6.2.1.7 References
Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.

(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.

(n.d.). County by-laws.

Drawing instruments and their uses. (2017). SILO inc.

Farook, S. (2020, November 15th).

file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf. Retrieved from
https://www.academia.edu/28179408/Lecture_2_Line_Types:
file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf

https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/. (2020, November 19). Retrieved from

https://gocodes.com: https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/

https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png

https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad. (2020, November 17).

Retrieved from www.designtechcadacademy.com:
om

https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad
.c
et
tv

https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-
sy
ea

explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-
reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412

(n.d.). IEE regulations 17th Edition.

J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.

Linsley, T. (2008). Basic Electrical Installation Work. Elsevier Ltd.

(2016). Mines Act.

(n.d.). National Construction Authority (NCA) regulations.

(n.d.). National Enviromental Management Authority(NEMA) regulations.

(2007). Occupation Safety and Health Act.

safety, C. c. (2020, November 23). https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html.

Retrieved from https://www.ccohs.ca:
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html
 sheahan, K. (2020, November 23). https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-general-shop-safety-rules.html.
Retrieved from https://careertrend.com: https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-general-shop-
safety-rules.html

standard, 2. C. (2020, November 15th ). https://www.cad-standard.com/technical-drawing-

basics/drawing-paper-sizes. Retrieved from www.cad-standard.com: https://www.cad-
standard.com/technical-drawing-basics/drawing-paper-sizes

UNICEF. (1992). 162 p. Retrieved from http://www.nzdl.org/gsdlmod?e=d-00000-00---off-0cdl--00-0----

0-10-0---0---0direct-10---4-------0-1l--11-en-50---20-help---00-0-1-00-0--4----0-0-11-10-0utfZz-
8-00&cl=CL1.68&d=HASH01221928a8ae1bc2f8253cba.8&gt=1

Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.

(2007). Work Injury Benefits Act.

www.femalifesafety.org. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.femalifesafety.org/types-of-

extinguishers.html

www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic. (2020, November 16th). Retrieved

from www.helenhudspith.com: www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic
om
.c
et

6.2.1.8 Model Answers to self-assessment

tv
sy

1. What is the meaning of the term PPE

ea

the term ‘personal protective equipment’ (PPE) refers to a vast group of products (e.g. safety
helmets, safety footwear and harnesses, eye protection, gloves, high-visibility clothing, etc.) designed
with the aim to protect users against low-, medium- and high-level hazards. This group of products
is regulated by the European Directive (EU) 2016/425

2. What are some of the five pieces of PPE which a trainee could be expected to wear at work and the
protection given by each piece?
• Safety helmet-Protects head from falling objects
• Goggles-Protects eyes from flying objects and excessive light
• Ear muffles-Protects ears from excessive sound.
• Dust coat/Overall- Protects personal clothing from dirt
• Hand gloves- Protects hands from injury.
• Safety boots- Protects feet from falling objects.

3. Causes of accidents
• Trips/fall
• Fatigue
• Stress

4. Types of fire extinguishers

• Carbon dioxide
• Dry chemical
• Water and foam

5. Methods of artificial resuscitation

• Kiss of life
• Holger-Nielsen
• Silvester method
• Schafer’s method
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea
 6.2.2. Learning Outcome 2: Prepare working drawings
6.2.2.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
To prepare working drawings appropriately, the learner need to interpret installation drawings, apply
symbols and nomenclature in accordance with British standards (BS 3939), apply appropriate drawing
tools, identify components and their ratings, clearly show cable sizes and lengths, show power supply and
distribution circuits using single line diagrams, carry out phase balancing of the loads as per the usage,
clearly indicate cable routes and prepare working drawings and share any deviation with the relevant bodies
6.2.2.2 Performance Standard
6.2.2.2.1 Interpret installation drawing
6.2.2.2.2 Apply symbols and nomenclatures in accordance with British standards[BS 3939]
6.2.2.2.3 Apply appropriate drawing tools
6.2.2.2.4 Identify components and their ratings.
6.2.2.2.5 Clearly show cable sizes and lengths
6.2.2.2.6 Show power supply and distribution circuits using single line diagrams
6.2.2.2.7 Carry out phase balancing of loads as per usage.
om

6.2.2.2.8 Clearly indicate cable routes.

.c
et

6.2.2.2.9 Prepare working drawings and share any deviations with relevant bodies.
tv
sy
ea

6.2.2.3 Information Sheet

Working drawings
It is scale drawing of an object to be made or structure to be built intended for direct use by the workman
Types of electrical drawings
1. Site plans or layout drawings
These are scale drawings based upon the architect’s site plan of the building and show the position of the
electrical equipment which is to be installed. The electrical equipment is identified by a graphical symbol.
The standard symbols used by the electrical contracting industry are those recommended by the British
Standard EN 60617, Graphical Symbols for Electrical Power, Telecommunications and Electronic
Diagrams. Some of the more common electrical installation symbols are given in Fig. 9. The site plan or
layout drawing will be drawn to a scale, smaller than the actual size of the building, so to find the actual
measurement, you must measure the distance on the drawing and multiply by the scale. For example, if the
site plan is drawn to a scale of 1:100, then 10 mm on the site plan represents 1 m measured in the building.
The layout drawing or site plan of a small domestic extension is shown in Fig. 10.
 om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 235 Some BS EN 60617 electrical installation symbols

 om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 236 Layout drawing or site plan of a small electrical installation

2. As-fitted drawings
When the installation is completed a set of drawings should be produced which indicate the final positions
of all the electrical equipment. As the building and electrical installation progresses, it is sometimes
necessary to modify the positions of equipment indicated on the layout drawing because, for example, the
position of a doorway has been changed. The layout drawings or site plans indicate the original intentions
for the position of equipment, while the ‘as-fitted’ drawing indicates the actual positions of equipment upon
completion of the contract.
3. Detail drawings and assembly drawings
These are additional drawings produced by the architect to clarify some point of detail. For example, a
drawing might be produced to give a fuller description of a suspended ceiling arrangement or the assembly
arrangements of the metalwork for the suspended ceiling.
4. Location drawings
Location drawings identify the place where something is located. It might be the position of the manhole
covers giving access to the drains. It might be the position of all water stop taps or the position of the
 emergency lighting fittings. This type of information may be placed on a blank copy of the architect’s site
plan or on a supplementary drawing.
5. Distribution cable route plans
On large installations there may be more than one position for the electrical supplies. Distribution cables
may radiate from the site of the electrical mains intake position to other sub-mains positions. The site of
the sub-mains and the route taken by the distribution cables may be shown on a blank copy of the architect’s
site plan or on the electricians ‘as-fitted’ drawings.
6. Block diagrams
A block diagram is a very simple diagram in which the various items or pieces of equipment are
represented by a square or rectangular box. The purpose of the block diagram is to show how the
components of the circuit relate to each other and, therefore, the individual circuit connections are not
shown. Figure 11 shows the block diagram of a space heating control system.

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 237 Block diagram of pace heating control system

7. Wiring diagrams
A wiring diagram or connection diagram shows the detailed connections between components or items of
equipment. They do not indicate how a piece of equipment or circuit works. The purpose of a wiring
diagram is to help someone with the actual wiring of the circuit. Figure 12 shows the wiring diagram for a
space heating control system.
 om
.c
et

Figure 238 Wiring diagram-space heating control system (Honeywell Y Plan)

tv
sy
ea

8. Circuit diagrams
A circuit diagram shows most clearly how a circuit works. All the essential parts and connections are
represented by their graphical symbols. The purpose of a circuit diagram is to help our understanding of
the circuit. It will be laid out as clearly as possible, without regard to the physical layout of the actual
components and, therefore, it may not indicate the most convenient way to wire the circuit. Figure 13 shows
the circuit diagram of our same space heating.
 Figure 239 Circuit diagram- space heating control system (Honeywell Y Plan)
om
.c
et

9. Schematic diagrams
tv
sy

A schematic diagram is a diagram in outline of, for example, a motor starter circuit. It uses graphical
ea

symbols to indicate the interrelationship of the electrical elements in a circuit. These help us to understand
the working operation of the circuit but are not helpful in showing us how to wire the components. An
electrical schematic diagram looks very like a circuit diagram. Figure 14 shows a schematic diagram.
 Figure 240 Schematic diagram of a motor starter
om
.c

10. Freehand working diagrams

et
tv

Freehand working drawings or sketches are another important way in which we communicate our ideas.
sy
ea

The drawings are done from freehand sketches. A freehand sketch may be done as an initial draft of an idea
before a full working drawing is made. It is often much easier to produce a sketch of your ideas or intentions
than to describe them or produce a list of instructions.
To convey the message or information clearly it is better to make your sketch large rather than too small.
It should also contain all the dimensions necessary to indicate clearly the size of the finished object depicted
by the sketch.
11. Line diagram
This is a one-line diagram or single-line diagram is a simplified notation for representing an electrical
system. The one-line diagram is similar to a block diagram except that electrical elements such as
switches, circuit breakers, transformers, and capacitors are shown by standardized schematic symbols.
12. Pictorial diagram
This is a diagram that represents the elements of a system using abstract, graphic drawings or realistic
pictures.
13. Building plans
These are architectural drawings which the technician uses to design electrical wiring systems.
The drawing shows the various elevations of the building.
Drawing instruments
Drawing instruments are used to prepare neat and accurate drawings. Accuracy of drawings depend on
the quality of instruments used to prepare them. The following is the list of drawing instruments and other
materials required.
• Drawing board
• T-square or drafter (drafting machine)
• Set squares
• Protractor
• Drawing instrument box
• Drawing sheet
• Drawing pencils
• Drawing pins/clips

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

T-square Drafting machine/drafter

o 45o setsquare with protractor

45 set square o o
30-60 set square

Protractor Compass

Figure 241 Drawing instruments

Drawing Pencils:

The accuracy and appearance of a drawing depends on the quality of Pencil used to make drawing. The
grade of a Pencil lead is marked on the Pencil. HB denotes medium grade. Increase in hardness is
shown by value put in front of H such as 2H, 3H etc., Softer pencils are marked as 2B, 3B, and 4B etc.
A pencil marked 3B is softer than 2B and Pencil marked 4B is softer than 3B and so on. Beginning of a
drawing may be made with H or 2H. For lettering and dimensioning, H and HB Pencils are used.

Drawing Pins and clips:

These are used to fix the Drawing sheet on the Drawing board.

Drawing paper sizes

ISO standard determines the paper dimensions for the A paper series. The most common paper sizes are
A0, A1, A2, A3, A4, and A5. The table below shows the dimension of the most common A series paper
sizes.

Table 15 Dimensions for A paper series

om

Paper size Dimensions (cm) Paper Area

.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Α5 14.8 x 21 cm 0.03108 m2

Α4 21 x 29.7 cm 0.0612 m2

Α3 29.7 x 42 cm 0.125 m2

Α2 42 x 59.4 cm 0.25 m2

Α1 59.4 x 84.1 cm 0.50 m2

Α0 84.1 x 118.9 cm 1 m2
Notice that if we split an A1 paper into two equal parts we get two A2 papers. If we split an A2 paper into
two equal part we get two A3 papers. If we split an A3 paper into two equal part we get two A4 papers
and so on. This is shown visual in the Figure 16.

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 242 Technical drawing paper sizes

Lines
Lines are the continuous association of points. Lines are classified as follows:-
a) According to Thickness.
b) According to Shape.
c) According to Darkness.
Lines used in Engineering drawings:-
a) Outlines- Lines drawn to represent visible edges and surface boundaries. These are also called
principal lines.
b) Dashed lines- Interior or hidden edges and surfaces are shown by dashed lines. Also called dotted
lines. They are of medium thickness. They are short dashed lines of about 3-4mmwith 1mm
distance between them.

c) Centre lines- These lines indicate axes of cylindrical, conical or spherical objects and the centers
of circles. These are medium thick lines consisting of long and short dashes, long dashes of 6-
8mm and 1mmdistance between them.

d) Dimension lines- These are continuous thin lines terminated at the outer ends by pointed arrow-
heads.

e) Construction lines- These are thin lines drawn during the drawing to help in drawing complex
geometrical structures.
om

f) Hatching lines- These are thin lines drawn parallel to each other at about 3mm. These lines show
.c
et

the presence of material while object is cut through.

tv
sy
ea

g) Cutting plane lines- These lines show the location of the cutting plane. It is thin & long chain line
with two small dashes of about 3-4mm and a long dash of about 6-8mm width

h) Break lines- These lines show imaginary boundaries of the object or to skip up very long part of
the object of similar width
How to draw a title block
The title block of a drawing, usually located on the bottom or lower right hand corner, contains all the
information necessary to identify the drawing and to verify its validity. The drawing title and the drawing
number are used for identification and filing purposes.
The title block of a drawing is usually located on the bottom or lower right hand corner, contains all the
information necessary to identify the drawing and to verify its validity. All engineering drawings should
feature a title block. The Figure 17 shows an example of a title block. The title block should include:
• Title: -title of the drawing
• Name: -name of the person who produced the drawing
• Checked: -before manufacture, drawings are usually checked
• Version: -many drawings are amended, each revision must be noted
• Date: -the date the drawing was produced or last amended
• Notes: -any note relevant to the drawing
• Scale: -the scale of the drawing
• Company name: -name of the company
• Projection: -the projection system used to create the drawing.
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 243 Title block

Dimensioning of drawings
A dimensioned drawing should provide all the information necessary for a finished product or part to be
manufactured. An example dimension is shown below.
 Dimensions are always drawn using continuous thin lines. Two projection lines indicate
where the dimension starts and finishes. Projection lines do not touch the object and are
drawn perpendicular to the element you are dimensioning.
All dimensions less than 1 should have a leading zero. i.e. .35 should be written as 0.35
Types of Dimensioning
I. Parallel Dimensioning
Parallel dimensioning consists of several dimensions originating from one projection line.
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

II. Superimposed Running Dimensions

Superimposed running dimensioning simplifies parallel dimensions in order to reduce the space used on a
drawing. The common origin for the dimension lines is indicated by a small circle at the intersection of
the first dimension and the projection line.
III. Chain Dimensioning

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

IV. Combined Dimensions

A combined dimension uses both chain and parallel dimensioning.
 V. Dimensioning of circles

(a) Shows two common methods of dimensioning a circle. One method dimensions the circle between
two lines projected from two diametrically opposite points. The second method dimensions the circle
internally.
(b) Is used when the circle is too small for the dimension to be easily read if it was placed inside the
circle.
VI. Dimensioning Radii
om

All radial dimensions are proceeded by the capital R.

.c
et
tv
sy
ea

(a) Shows a radius dimensioned with the center of the radius located on the drawing.
(b) Shows how to dimension radii which do not need their centers locating.

VII. Tolerancing
It is not possible in practice to manufacture products to the exact figures displayed on an engineering
drawing. The accuracy depends largely on the manufacturing process. A tolerance value shows the
manufacturing department the maximum permissible variation from the dimension. Each dimension on a
drawing must include a tolerance value. This can appear either as: a general tolerance value applicable to
several dimensions i.e. note specifying that the General Tolerance +/-0.5 mm. or a tolerance specific to
that dimension
Orthographic Projections
Orthographic Projections are a collection of 2-D drawings that work together to give an accurate overall
representation of an object.

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 244 Orthographic projections

Defining the Six Principal Views or Orthographic Views

Figure 245 orthographic views

General Guidelines on which views to present
Pick a Front View that is most descriptive of object. Normally the longest dimension is chosen as the
width (or depth). Most common combination of views is to use: Front, Top, and Side View. The figure 20
shows the views to be present.

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 246 Views to present

Glass Box Approach

Place the object in a glass box. Freeze the view from each direction (each of the six sides of the box) and
unfold the box
ea
sy
tv
et
.c
om
ea
sy
tv
et
.c
om
ea
sy
tv
et
.c
om
 Figure 247 first and third angle projections
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 248 Conventional orthogonal views

How to read and interpret architectural drawings

The first time you opened a set of architectural plans, you were probably instantly lost and confused. If
you are managing your company’s real estate project, but don’t have any real training in architecture,
reading these plans can extremely difficult. To save you some time and trouble, we’ve put together a
guide as to how to read architectural plans.
Here are a few additional general guidelines to keep in mind:

• Be organized and diligent when reading plans. Start in upper left corner and work way across page
so as not to miss any details.
• Read the plan cover sheet. This contains important project information like the project name,
architect, contact information, project information and the date. It might also include a drawing of
the finished product.
• There are often reference points that are used between professionals and sets of drawings. These
can come in many forms: room numbers, a grid system, structural references, etc.
• Review the plan index which provides a list of all plan sheets.

Start with the Site or Plot plan. This provides an overhead view of the property and details about the
boundaries and orientation of the building. There will also be a symbol legend will depict the symbols
used to indicate windows, doors, elevation, etc. Many symbols contain numbers within them which refer
to the section and the page number of the plans. Reviewing the symbol legend will help when looking at
om

the actual plans so that you recognize what the symbols are referring to. You may also want to review the
.c
et

list of abbreviations, many of which are standard in the industry, but some may be specific to the
tv
sy
ea

architect. This will also help later when you are reading design notes.
Once you move into reading the actual architectural sheets, it’s important to know that architectural plans
are labeled with an A (A 001 or A1-X, A2-X, etc.). The architectural plans are where you will see where
your office is, where the bathrooms are in relation to workstations, etc. They will also provide
measurements, elevations, locations of walls, windows, bathrooms, etc. Plans are broken up into many,
many parts so it’s make sure to look at the plan number (and North arrow) to help orient yourself. Always
read the notes on a page! Some design details are easier to communicate via text so notes are included on
the drawing or sometimes as additional pages.

There are many additional plans that supplement architectural plans: ceiling, roof framing, finish schedule
(paint colors for each wall, flooring type and color, ceiling height, type, and color), door/window
schedule, and many more. These plans contain important details, but we will cover those details in a
future blog post. For now, hopefully this will help the next time you’re trying to figure out how to read
architectural plans. The table shows some of the architectural symbols that are always used.
 om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Use of Computer Aided design

CAD stands for Computer Aided Design. CAD is used to design, develop and optimize products. While it
is very versatile, CAD is extensively used in the design of tools and equipment required in the
manufacturing process as well as in the construction domain. CAD enables design engineers to layout and
to develop their work on a computer screen, print and save it for future editing. CAD (Computer Aided
Design) is the use of computer software to design and document a product’s design process.
Computer-aided design (CAD) involves creating computer models defined by geometrical parameters.
These models typically appear on a computer monitor as a three-dimensional representation of a part or a
system of parts, which can be readily altered by changing relevant parameters. CAD systems enable
designers to view objects under a wide variety of representations and to test these objects by simulating
real-world conditions.
When it was introduced first, CAD was not exactly an economic proposition because the machines at
those times were very costly. The increasing computer power in the later part of the twentieth century,
with the arrival of minicomputer and subsequently the microprocessor, has allowed engineers to use CAD
files that are an accurate representation of the dimensions / properties of the object.
CAD is used to accomplish preliminary design and layouts, design details and calculations, creating 3-D
models, creating and releasing drawings, as well as interfacing with analysis, marketing, manufacturing,
and end-user personnel.
CAD facilitates the manufacturing process by transferring detailed information about a product in an
automated form that can be universally interpreted by trained personnel. It can be used to produce either
two-dimensional or three-dimensional diagrams. The use of CAD software tools allow the object to be
viewed from any angle, even from the inside looking out. One of the main advantages of a CAD drawing
is that the editing is a fast process as compared to manual method. Apart from detailed engineering of 2D
or 3D models, CAD is widely used from conceptual design and layout of products to definition of
manufacturing of components. CAD reduces design time by allowing precise simulation rather than build
and test physical prototypes. Integrating CAD with CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) streamlines
the product development even more.
CAD is currently widely used for industrial products, animated movies and other applications. A special
om
.c

printer or plotter is usually required for printing professional design renderings. CAD programs use either
et
tv
sy

vector-based graphics or raster graphics that show how an object will look.
ea

CAD software enables

• Efficiency in the quality of design

• Increase in the Engineer’s productivity
• Improve record keeping through better documentation and communication

Today, the use of CAD has permeated almost all industries. From aerospace, electronics to
manufacturing, CAD is used in all industry verticals. Since CAD encourages creativity and speeds up
productivity, it is becoming more and more useful as an important tool for visualization before actually
implementing a manufacturing process. That is also one of the reasons CAD training is gaining more and
more importance.
6.2.2.4 Learning Activities
Project

Practical activities Knowledge Special instruction

1. Interpretation of installation Working drawings

drawing from a typical
working drawing
2. Apply and demonstrate Standard electrical symbols Draw and name all electrical
knowledge of symbols and symbols

nomenclatures in
accordance with British
standards[BS 3939]
3. Identify the drawing Drawing instruments and Demonstrate how to use various
tools equipment drawing instruments, identify
the paper sizes

4. Identify components and Electrical components and their

their ratings. ratings
om

5. Clearly show cable sizes Cable sizes

.c
et

and lengths as provided

tv
sy

in the workshop
ea

6. Show power supply and • Line diagrams

draw distribution circuits • Distribution circuits
• Power supply
using single line
diagrams
7. Carry out phase Phase balancing of loads
balancing of loads as per
usage on an existing
domestic installation
8. Clearly mark the cable Cable routing
routes.
9. Prepare working Working drawings
drawings and share any
deviations with relevant
bodies.
6.2.2.5 Self-Assessment
1. Draw the following types of lines.
I. Outline
II. Long break line
III. Center line
IV. Hidden line
V. Dimension line

2. Which tools are used by a draftsperson when carrying out a task in Technical drawing?
3. Which type of a pencil are used while carrying out drawing assignment?
4. Below is an electrical symbol. Name of the symbol?

One way switch

om

5. Draw the symbol of the following electrical installation equipment and machines.
.c
et
tv
sy

Name Symbol
ea

i. Motor
ii. Transformer

iii. Energy meter

iv. Consumer control unit

v. Fluorescent lamp
6.2.2.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Recommended Resources

Tools and equipment Materials and supplies

➢ Cable Strippers
• Stationery
➢ Pliers
• Cables
➢ Screw drivers
• Light fittings
➢ Hammers
• Accessories
➢ Chisels
• Conduits and fittings
➢ Allen keys
• Cable trays
➢ Electrician knives
• Cable ducts
➢ Crimping tools
➢ Bending springs • Trunkings

➢ Bending machine • Computers

➢ Steel tapes • Drawing instruments

➢ Draw wires • Screws

➢ Hack saws
om

➢ Drilling tools
.c
et

➢ Stock and die

tv
sy

➢ Bench vice
ea

➢ Machine vice
➢ PPE – hand gloves, dust coats, dust
masks, helmets, ear muffs, industrial
boots
Reference materials

• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards
 6.2.2.7 References
Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.

(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.

(n.d.). County by-laws.

Drawing instruments and their uses. (2017). SILO inc.

Farook, S. (2020, November 15th).

file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf. Retrieved from
https://www.academia.edu/28179408/Lecture_2_Line_Types:
file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf

https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/. (2020, November 19). Retrieved from

https://gocodes.com: https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/

https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png

https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad. (2020, November 17).

Retrieved from www.designtechcadacademy.com:
om

https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad
.c
et
tv

https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-
sy
ea

explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-
reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412

(n.d.). IEE regulations 17th Edition.

J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.

Linsley, T. (2008). Basic Electrical Installation Work. Elsevier Ltd.

(2016). Mines Act.

(n.d.). National Construction Authority (NCA) regulations.

(n.d.). National Enviromental Management Authority(NEMA) regulations.

(2007). Occupation Safety and Health Act.

safety, C. c. (2020, November 23). https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html.

Retrieved from https://www.ccohs.ca:
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html
sheahan, K. (2020, November 23). https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-general-shop-safety-rules.html.
Retrieved from https://careertrend.com: https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-general-shop-
safety-rules.html

standard, 2. C. (2020, November 15th ). https://www.cad-standard.com/technical-drawing-

basics/drawing-paper-sizes. Retrieved from www.cad-standard.com: https://www.cad-
standard.com/technical-drawing-basics/drawing-paper-sizes

UNICEF. (1992). 162 p. Retrieved from http://www.nzdl.org/gsdlmod?e=d-00000-00---off-0cdl--00-0----

0-10-0---0---0direct-10---4-------0-1l--11-en-50---20-help---00-0-1-00-0--4----0-0-11-10-0utfZz-
8-00&cl=CL1.68&d=HASH01221928a8ae1bc2f8253cba.8&gt=1

Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.

(2007). Work Injury Benefits Act.

www.femalifesafety.org. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.femalifesafety.org/types-of-

extinguishers.html

www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic. (2020, November 16th). Retrieved

from www.helenhudspith.com: www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic
om
.c
et

6.2.2.8 Model answers to self-assessment

tv
sy

1. Draw the following types of lines.

ea

I. Outline

II. Long break line

III. Center line

IV. Hidden line

V. Dimension line

2. Which tools are used by a draftsperson when carrying out a task in Technical drawing?
• T squares
• Protractor
 • Emery board
3. Which type of a pencil are used while carrying out drawing assignment?
• HB
• 3H
• 2H
• 4H

4. Below is an electrical symbol. Name of the symbol?

One way switch

5. Draw the symbol of the following electrical installation equipment and machines
Name Symbol

vi. Motor
om
.c
et
tv
sy

vii. Transformer
ea

viii. Energy meter

ix. Consumer control unit

x. Fluorescent lamp
6.2.3 Learning Outcome 3: Assemble tools, equipment and materials
6.2.3.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
In order to assemble tools, equipment and materials, the learner need check the tools, equipment
and materials for proper functionality, assemble and store them as per established procedure.
6.2.3.2 Performance Standards
6.2.3.2.1 Check tools, equipment and materials for proper specifications and functionality.
6.2.3.2.2 Assemble and store tools, equipment and materials as per the established procedure
6.2.3.3 Information Sheet
Accessory- Any device other than a lighting fitting, associated with the wiring and current-using
appliances of an installation, e.g. a switch, a fuse, a plug, a socket-outlet, a lamp holder or a ceiling rose.

Electrical equipment- means any apparatus, appliance, device, fitting, fixture or material used in
distribution, supply or utilization of electric power
Electrical installation tools, equipment and their use

These are tools used in driving or pounding out nails they are made of hard steel, wood, plastic or rubber.
The following are types of hammers; claw, mallet and Ball peen.
om

Hammers
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Wire stripper

A tool used for removing insulation from insulated cables.

Side cutter
This is a tool used fine medium and big cables

Combination pliers

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

These are made of metal with insulated handles. They are used for cutting, twisted, bending, holding and
gripping wires and cables

Long nose pliers

This is used for cutting and holding wires. It made to reach tight space and or small opening where other
pliers cannot reach. It is also used in making terminal loops of copper wire
Star screw driver

It has a cross tip and is used to drive screws with cross slot heads.

Flat screw driver

It has a flat tip and is used to drive screws with straight slot heads.
om
.c

Hacksaw
et
tv
sy
ea

This is a tool used to cut metal conduit and armoured cable.

Fish/Draw tape
This tool is used to draw cables in the conduit

Measuring tools

To measure wire length and other items, the Technician finds considerable use of measuring tool
om

Soldering equipment
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

In installing electric wiring, joints made between wires should be soldered, unless you use solder less
connectors. Typical equipment available

Drilling equipment
Drilling equipment is needed to make holes in building structure passages of Conduit sand wire

How to take care of your tools

Good tools can be quite an investment, but if you take good care of them, they'll return the
favour. Keeping your tools properly stored, cleaned, and maintained will save you time and
money and make your DIY endeavors that much more rewarding
In keeping the tools and equipment, you need to work with the space you have. Maybe you hang
them on pegboards, maybe you store them in boxes, bags, or chests, or maybe you keep them in
drawers or on shelves in your shop. Whatever works for you is best.
Toolboxes also make for great tool storage, offering the primary advantage of portability. While
some people opt to store all their tools in toolboxes, for most, the toolbox is a way of carrying
around your most-used tools while leaving the bulk safely stored on pegboards, shelves, or
drawers.
Basic maintenance of electric tools
To ensure that your electric tools work when you need them to, you must take proper care of
them. A good regimen of maintenance for your tools is one thing that you can do to make sure
om
.c

that the tool you need is working when you need it.
t
ve
t

a) Clean out the dust: To make sure that your electric tools are ready to go when you are,
sy
ea

keep them clean and free of dust. The housing intake on your electric tools and the
exhaust are especially important areas to keep clean. Take some time to clean out the
dust every once in a while, on your tools while they are sitting in storage.
b) Check the cords: Look for wear and tear on the power cords on your electric
tools. There can be damage to the insulation and you should keep an eye out for loose
wires. This will ensure that your electric tool can get the power that it needs to function
without an accident. Wipe the cords down to keep them from becoming damaged from
oil and grease. The prongs on the cords should be examined as well. Make sure that the
casing is intact and the prongs are not loose.
c) Oil some electric tools: The electric tools in your toolbox that have a cutting surface
should be lightly oiled to prevent rust. Examine the cutting surface for rust to make sure
that your tools are kept in good condition.
d) Storing your tools: Keep your electric tools stored in their original cases and
containers. This will keep them free of dust and dirt while they are not being used.
Electrical equipment
Some of the electrical equipment used are shown in figure 23.

72
 Figure 249 some of the electrical equipment

Accessories

Lamp Holders.

These are designed for quick removal and replacement of the lamp, and yet they must hold the
lamp in firm metallic contact to prevent overheating.

There are three main sizes of lamp holder, namely;

om
.c

i. The Bayonet-cap (B.C),

t
ve
t
sy

ii. The medium Edison Screw (E.S) and

ea

iii. The Goliath Screw (G.E.S).

There are other variations such as the three-slot B.C for the smaller discharge lamps. For
ordinary tungsten filament lamps of up to 150W, the lamp caps and thus the lamp holder are B.C,
for lamps up to 200 W the caps are E.S, and those above 200W use G.E.S.

In every case where a lamp is to be installed, the appropriate size and type of holder must be
fitted. Lamp holder may be either the insulated type of Bakelite or the brass type with porcelain
interior.

B.C lamp holder should have solid plungers separately sprung by rust-proof steel plunger springs
and in the insulated type a metal insert to reinforce the area around the bayonet sockets. An
efficient cord grip is also necessary when the lamp is to be suspended from flexible cord.

Figure 24 shows an insulated cord-grip lamp holder, the section shows clearly the flexible wire
securely fixed to the spring plunger, and also the method of gripping the flexible cord.

73
 Figure 250 Insulated cord-grip

The type shown in figure 25 below is an insulated holder suitable for mounting directly on the
ceiling.

Figure 251 Insulated holder suitable for direct mounting

Figure 26 shows a cord grip and the flexible wired to a brass lamp holder terminal.
om
t.c
ve
t
sy
ea

Figure 252 cord grip and flexible wired to a brass lamp holder terminal

Figure 27, shows internally threaded to screw to conduit or to a metal lamp bracket or the like.

Figure 253 internally threaded lamp holder

Figure 28 is of a batten holder which may be screwed direct to a batten or back board.

74
 Figure 254 Batten holder

Figure 29 shows a push bar switch lamp holder.

Figure 255 push bar switch lamp holder

A Goliath screw lamp-holder is shown exploded in figure 30. The outer contact is a screwed
metal cylinder, and the inner contact is a metal stud. I.E.E. Regulation states that where centre
contact bayonet or Edison-type screw lamp holders are connected to a source of supply having
an earthed.
om
t.c
ve
t
sy
ea

Figure 256 Exploded view of Goliath screw lamp holder

Neutral conductor, the outer or screwed contact shall be connected to that conductor. Where such
lamp holders are used in circuits having neither pole connected with earth , or in any damp
situation, or in any situation in which they can readily be touched by a person in contact with or
standing on earthed metal , they shall be provided with a protective shield of insulating material
complying with B.S.98, or shall be so placed or guarded that neither the lamp cap nor the outer
or screwed contact of the lamp holder can be touched when the lamp cap is in contact with the
lamp holder screw.

Regulations require that, every B.C lamp holder in a damp situation, or in a situation where it can
be touched by a person in contact with or standing on earthed metal, shall be constructed of or be
shrouded in insulating material, or shall be earthed. Where a lamp holder is likely to attain a
working temperature of 1350 C the lamp holder must be of the special heat-resisting type.

Celling roses

The great majority of ceiling roses already installed contain either two or three connection plates,
each plate including a pillar terminal for the circuit wires, and a screw terminal with washer for
flexible wire connection.

75
When wiring ceiling roses with terminal similar to those illustrated above, the flexible wire
should be bent under the washer in a clockwise direction, otherwise, it will tend to be squeezed
out when the screw is tightened. In some ceiling roses, pillar terminals are provided for both
circuit wires and flexible wire.

I.E.E. Regulation requires;

i. That a ceiling rose shall not be installed in any circuit operating at a voltage normally
exceeding low voltage.
ii. The shrouding of a live terminal in a ceiling rose.
iii. That not more than one flexible cord shall be attached to a ceiling rose unless the rose be
designed for multiple pendants.
iv. That a ceiling rose shall be provided with an earthing terminal for compliance with I.E.E
Regulation

Figure below shows a modern form of moulded ceiling rose which include the earth terminal
required by Regulation, and a shrouded terminal for looping- in the live wire as required.
om
.c

Figure 257 Ceiling rose

t
ve
t
sy
ea

Earth
Line
loop-in

Neutral

Switch
wire

Figure 258 Modern form of moulded ceiling rose

Lighting circuit switches.

Figure 259 switches showing various plugs

The switches are for switching ON and OFF the lighting points. For direct current circuits, the
quick-make- and-break switch is most suitable. The quick break is to prevent the arc formed at
the instant of rupture from continuing and burning the contacts

76
Alternating current can efficiently be interrupted by the opening of a very small gap between
silver contacts and most sub- circuit switches are now of this type. All switches should be
mechanically robust to withstand the constant operation, and the contacts should be heavy and
firm enough to carry the current without overheating.

Plugs and socket- outlets

Figure 260 switches showing various plugs

These are required to enable portable apparatus to be connected to the final sub-circuits. The
socket –outlet is the fixed portion connected to the fixed wiring, and comprises two or three
contact tubes and terminals. The plug is the movable part connected to the apparatus by flexible
wire, and comprises two or three contact pins to fit into the contact tubes. Plugs and socket-
outlets are made to British Standard Specifications, the standard sizes being 2 A, 5A, and 30 A.
The plug pins are of phosphor- bronze or hard-drawn brass, solid or slotted down the length to
form a spring contact in the tubes. The terminals are of substantial construction to clamp the
flexible wire firmly. The plug cover, of hardwood or other tough incombustible material, is
om

provided with a clamp to prevent the flexible from pulling out of the plug when in use, this
t.c
ve

clamp to be inside the cover. The socket-outlet base is of vitreous porcelain or tough insulating
t
sy
ea

material and the contact tubes which must be self- adjusting to the pins are of phosphor-bronze
or hard-drawn brass with sound terminals.

The exposed ends of the tubes are below the level of the base to prevent them from being
touched accidentally. Figure 36 shows a 3 pin plug with cover

Plugs and sockets may be either of the 2-pin type or of the 3-pin type. Figure 37.shows a 3-pin
socket –outlet for flush mounting. For direct current circuits the socket-outlet must be switch-
controlled, and this is commonly provided for by a combined switch and socket-outlet.

Flat pin 13-A fused plug

I.E.E. Regulation allows the use of 13-A fused plugs under certain conditions, figure 1.38 shows
a 3-pin fused plug made in accordance with B.S 1363.

The plug is suitable for use with alternating current only. The plug pins are clearly identified by
‘L’ for live ‘N’ for neutral and ‘E’ for earth... A 13 –A cartridge fuse fitted inside the plug.

I.E.E. Regulations require that every plug and socket- outlet shall comply with the following;

• It must not be possible for any one pin of a plug to be in live contact with the socket-outlet
whole any other pin is exposed.
• No plug should fit any live contact of a socket- outlet, other than that of the socket-outlet
for which it is designed
77
 • With exceptions, every plug and socket-outlet must be non-reversible, with provision for
earthing
• Every fuse plug is to be non-reversible , with no provision for a fuse in an earthed
conductor
Fuses.

A fuse element consists essentially of a piece of copper or tin-lead alloy wire which will melt
when carrying a predetermined current. This element with contact carrier, and base is called a
fuse. It is placed in series with the circuit or sub-circuit to be protected, and automatically breaks
the circuit when overloaded. In general, the regulations regarding fuses require that fuses shall be
accessible, and shall be fitted either on the front of a switch board or in a protecting case. In most
cases in installation work the fuses are fitted in a distribution board.

The current rating or normal current-carrying capacity of a fuse should not exceed the current
rating of the smallest conductor in the circuit protected by the fuse, account being taken of the
class of excess- current protection provided by the fuse, coarse or close. For electric motors, a
higher fuse rating is allowable. The fusing values of normal duty fuses vary from 160 to 200
percent of the carrying capacity.

Rewireable fuses.

In this type, fuse wire is placed in a removable fuse link. The fuse link may be of porcelain or
om

other suitable insulating materials, it is so constructed that there is no danger to the operator in
.c

removing the fuse link. The fuse wire is connected between two terminals and passes through an
t
ve
t
sy

asbestos tube or is in intimate contact with a sheet of asbestos. The fuse link is push-fitted into
ea

the fuse base to make the connection through suitable contacts. Although the material cost of
replacing a blown fuse wire in a Rewirable fuse is negligible, nevertheless this fuse had
disadvantages, the chief being the deterioration of the fuse wire over a period, and another the
possibility of renewal by the wrong size of fuse wire.

Cartridge fuses

The cartridge fuse consists of a sealed tube with metal end caps. The fuse wire passes through
the tube from cap to cap and is welded or soldered to the inside of the cap. There is sometimes a
blowout device in the side of the tube to indicate when the fuse is blown. When the fuse is blown
the whole cartridge must be replaced. Cartridge fuses only are used in fused plugs, such as the
common ring-circuit 13 –A plug.

High breaking capacity fuses.

The H.B.C fuse consists of a ceramic tube with metal end caps and fixing tags. The fuse is a
silver strip of special shape with a low melting point rivet in the center. The strip is entirely
surrounded by chemically purified silica. When an overload occurs breaking the fuse element,
the silica prevents the formation of an arc, thus preventing overheating of the fuse and its
surroundings.

78
 Figure 261 HRC fuses

Figure 262 Construction of HRC fuse

Distribution boards.

The distribution board is an assemblage of parts, including one or more fuses or circuit-breakers
arranged for the distribution of electrical energy to final sub–circuits or to other distribution
boards.
om
t.c
ve
t
sy
ea

Figure 263 Distribution board

79
The boards are usually metal-cased in sheet steel, or hardwood- cased in oak, teak, or mahogany. The
doors may be solid or glazed, and the case if fitted with an earthing terminal. Figure 1.38 shows a 1-pole
and neutral, 6-way, distribution board with sheet steel body, fitted with Rewirable or H.B.C fuses. There
is one fuse bank only, on the live side. One end of each of the six fuses is rigidly connected to a busbar,
and the other end is arranged for connection to the circuit wire. The neutral wire of the circuit is
connected to the neutral bar.

The regulations require that the neutral conductors for the different sub- circuits shall be connected in the
same order as the live conductors to the fuses. Some distribution boards are designed to contain circuit –
breakers instead of fuses. These however are more expensive than the equivalent Rewirable or H.B.C
fuses.

Miniature circuit- breakers

These are being increasingly used to provide close excess - current protection in single phase, 250 V
circuits. The circuit- breaker is essentially a switch which may be:
om

1. Opened and closed by hand

.c
et

2. Opened automatically when overloaded

tv
sy
ea

The tripping action may be either magnetic or thermal. In general both these actions are used in this type
of circuit-breaker. Protection against sustained over current is given by the bending of a bi-metal strip
with its time-lag affect, while high speed protection against a short- circuit is given by magnetic
operation.

The circuit-breaker replaces both switch and fuses in the various circuits in which it is used. It can be
obtained with plug-in contacts for insertion into a fuse base in a distribution board in place of a plug-in
fuse carrier.

Main switch and fuses

The consumer’s main switch and fuses may be combined in one case. With this type of switch and fuse
gear, the switch cannot be operated when the case is open, nor can the case be opened while the switch is
closed.

Consumer’s control unit

In a single-phase installation whose current rating is not greater than 60A, the consumer’s main switch
and fuse may be combined with the distribution board as one combined unit. The unit comprises a 60A
80
2-pole main switch and up to 12 single-pole circuit fuses ( 12 way consumer unit). The fuses vary in
size, e.g. 5A, 15 A and 30 A.

Obviously the maximum current to be taken from the unit at any one time must not exceed 60 A. either
cartridge or Rewirable fuses may be employed. In addition to the fuses a neutral bar and an earthing bar
are fitted. The whole is fitted in a suitable sheet steel case, or in a moulded case; figure 39 shows a
connection diagram for this unit.

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 264 Consumer control unit

Types of Conductors

The most common electrical conductors used are copper and aluminum. Copper conductors are formed
from a block of copper which is cold-drawn through a set of dies until the desired cross- sectional area is
obtained. Aluminium wire is also drawn from a solid block

81
Characteristics of aluminium and copper as conductors

The table 4 show the summarized characteristics of Aluminium and copper

Table 16 Summary of characteristics of aluminum and copper

Aluminium Copper

Smaller weight for similar resistance and Can easily be drawn into wires
current-carrying capacity

Easier to machine Has better electrical and thermal conductivity

Greater current density because of larger Has greater mechanical strength

surface
om
.c
et

High resistivity (2.845µΩ-cm) Is corrosion resistant

tv
sy
ea

Light in weight Has high scrap value

Easy to joint

Lower resistivity (1.78 µΩ-cm)

The determining factor in the use of one type of metal for conductors is usually that of cost. Aluminium
cables are used where weight is a factor like for overhead transmission.

Stranding of Conductors.

Stranding of conductors is done to make the completed cable more flexible. A set number of strands
are used in cables: 1, 3, 7, 19, 37, 61, 91, and 127. Each layer of strands is spiraled on to the cable
in opposite direction to the previous layer. This system increases the flexibility of the completed

82
cable and also minimizes the danger of 'bird caging', or the opening-up of the strands under a
bending or twisting force.

Size of Stranded Conductors

The size of a stranded conductor is determined by the number of strands and the diameter of
the individual strands. For example, a 7/0.85 mm cable consists of seven strands of wire, each
strand having a diameter of 0.85 mm.

𝜋𝐷 2 0.852
The cross-sectional area will be = 7 × = 3.142 × 7 × = 4.0 mm2
4 4

Figure 265 Stranded conductor

Cable
A cable is defined in the I.E.E. Regulations as: "A length of insulated single conductor (solid or
om

stranded), or of two or more such conductors, each provided with its own insulation, which are laid up
.c
et
tv

together. The insulated conductor or conductors may or may not be provided with an overall covering
sy
ea

for mechanical protection." A cable consists of two basic parts:

• Conductors
• insulators

Construction of Cables

A cable derives its name from the type of insulation used.

Polyvinyl Chloride (P.V.C.) Cable.

This is also known as 'thermo-plastic' cable since the insulation is made from a synthetic resin which
softens when heated. The process of manufacture is as follows:

Multi-core Cable.

This is cable which is made up of two or more insulated conductors. Multi-core cable is sheathed in a
protective covering— for example, tough rubber for tough rubber-sheathed cables (t.r.s.) and p.v.c. for
plastic cables.

Tough-Rubber-Sheathed (t.r.s.) Cable.

83
This is made of specially toughened rubber which is resistant to acids and alkalies.

Polychloroprene (p.c.p. or neoprene) Cable.

Uses an insulation somewhat similar to that of t.r.s. but capable of withstanding most weather conditions
and particularly direct sunlight.

Heat-resisting, Oil-resisting and Flame-retardant (h.o.f.r.) Cables.

These cables are used in conditions damaging to p.v.c. cables such as high temperature and oil. The
resistant qualities are developed by a vulcanizing (or curing) process which forms an elastomer capable of
withstanding tough conditions and still retaining its flexibility.

Comparison OF T.R.S. AND P.V.C. cable

The table 5 shows the comparison between T.R.S cable and P.V.C cable

Table 17 Comparison between T.R.S and P.V.C cable

t.r.s. Cable p.v.c. Cable

om

Affected by oil and water Largely unaffected by oil, water, and corrosive
.c
et
tv

chemicals
sy
ea

More flexible Hardens at low temperatures and softens at high

temperatures

Must be protected against direct Does not support combustion

sunlight

The maximum operating temperature for both rubber and p.v.c. insulated cables is 45°C.

Flexible cable

The I.E.E. Regulations define a flexible cable as: "A cable consisting of one or more cores, each
containing a group of wires, the diameters of the wires and the construction of the cable being such as to
afford flexibility."

Flexible cord

A flexible cord is defined as: "A flexible cable in which the cross-sectional area of each conductor does
not exceed 4 mm2".

84
Twisted Twin Flex Cable

This is made up of a multi-strand tinned-copper conductor with silicon rubber insulation. Application:
lighting flex.

Copper

Silicon rubber

Figure 266 Twisted twin flex

Circular Flex. The rubber-insulated cores are formed into a circular section with cotton worming and
contained in a cotton braiding.

Applications: connections to household appliances (iron boxes, kettles, etc.)

Circular Flex, Rubber Sheathed This flex is also packed with jute or cotton to form a circular cross-
section but an outer sheath of rubber replaces the cotton braiding.
om

Applications: vacuum cleaner and portable drill leads (3-core).

.c
et
tv
sy

Tough rbber
ea

Cotton Copper wires

Vulcanized rubber

Figure 267 Circular flex, rubber sheathed

Workshop (or Industrial) Flex

This flex is similar in construction to the above, but has the addition of a compounded braiding. Appli-
cation: connections to industrial lighting.

Cotton barking Cotton Copper

Vulcanized rubber

Figure 268 Workshop (or industrial) flex

85
Permissible Voltage Drop in Cable.

Voltage drop is an essential feature in the calculation of cable size. Low voltage at the consumer’s
equipment leads to the inefficient operation of lighting, power equipment, and heating appliances. The
maximum voltage drop allowed between the consumer’s terminals and any point in the installation is 2-
5 per cent of the voltage supplied by the Electricity Supply Authority, including motor circuits.

Voltage Drop and the I.E.E. Tables.

The I.E.E. tables state the voltage drop across a section of cable when maximum current is flowing
through it. If the current is halved, the voltage drop will also be halved. For example, a 4 mm2 twin-core
cable has a current rating of 24 A and a-voltage drop 10 mV per ampere per metre. If the current is halved
(to 12 A) the voltage drop will be halved to 5 mV per ampere per metre.

The I.E.E. Regulations contain comprehensive information regarding the current-carrying capacity of
cables under certain conditions.

These tables supply:

i. Cross-sectional area, number, and diameter of conductors;
om

ii. type of insulation;

.c
et

iii. length of run for 1V drop;

tv
sy

iv. Current rating (a.c. and d.c.), for either single or bunched.
ea

The following terms are used in the I.E.E. tables:

i. ambient temperature
ii. Rating factor.
Ambient Temperature. This is the temperature of the air surrounding the conductor. The current rating
of a cable is decreased as the temperature of the surrounding air increases, and this changed current-
carrying capacity can be calculated by using the relevant rating factor.
Rating Factor.
This is a number, without units, which is multiplied with the current to find the new current-carrying
capacity as the operating conditions of the cable change. For example, a twin-core 10 mm2 (7/1.35 mm)
p.v.c. cable will carry a maximum current of 40 A at an ambient temperature of 25 °C, but if the ambient
temperature is increased to 65 °C the maximum current allowed will now be:
40A× 0.44 (rating factor) = 17.6A

86
The rating factor is also dependent on the type of excess current protection. If cables are bunched together,
their current-carrying capacity will decrease; a rating factor is therefore supplied for the bunching, or
grouping, of cables.

Current Density and Cable Size.

The current density of a conductor is the amount of current which the conductor can safely carry without
undue heating per unit cross-sectional area. For example, if a copper conductor has a current density of
300 A/cm2 a copper conductor of cross-sectional 0.5 cm2 will be capable of carrying one half of 300 A,
that is, 150 A.

To calculate the current-carrying capacity of a cable (given cross-sectional area (cm2) and current density
(A/cm2) :
Current-carrying capacity = current density x cross-sectional area

Example.

Calculate the current-carrying capacity of a 0.1 cm2 conductor if the current density of the conductor is
400 A/cm2.
om

Current-carrying capacity = 400A/cm2x0.1cm2 = 40 A

.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Fittings

Power is relevant to electricians because it says that reasonable provision shall be made to provide lighting
systems with energy-efficient lamps and sufficient controls so that electrical energy can be used efficiently.
The two methods of compliance with these Regulations for both internal and external lighting. It says:

• A reasonable number of internal lighting points should be wired that will only take energy-efficient
lamps such as fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent lamps, CFLs.
• External lighting fixed to the building, including lighting in porches but not lighting in garages or
carports, should provide reasonable provision for energy-efficient lamps such as fluorescent tubes
and CFLs.
These lamps should automatically extinguish in daylight and when not required at night, by being
controlled by Passive infra-red (PIR) detectors. The traditional light bulb, called a GLS (general lighting
service) lamp is hopelessly bad in energy efficiency terms, producing only 14 lumens of light output for
every electrical watt input. Fluorescent tubes and CFLs produce more than 40 lumens of light output for
every watt input.

Different types of lamp.

87
 a) GLS lamps
GLS lamps produce light as a result of the heating effect of an electrical current. Most of the electricity
goes to producing heat and a little to producing light. A fi ne tungsten wire is first coiled and coiled again
to form the incandescent fi lament of the GLS lamp. The coiled coil arrangement reduces filament cooling
and increases the light output by allowing the fi l-ament to operate at a higher temperature. The light output
covers the visible spectrum, giving a warm white to yellow light with a colour rendering quality classified
as fairly good. The efficacy of the GLS lamp is 14 lumens per watt over its intended lifespan of 1000 h.
The filament lamp in its simplest form is a purely functional light source which is unchallenged on the
domestic market despite the manufacture of more efficient lamps. One factor which may have contributed
to its popular-ity is that lamp designers have been able to modify the glass envelope of the lamp to give a
very pleasing decorative appearance, as shown by figure 43.

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 269 some decorative GLS lamp shapes

b) Tungsten Halogen Dichroic Reflector Miniature Spot Lamps
Tungsten Halogen Dichroic Reflector Miniature Spot Lamps such as the one shown in Fig. 44 are
extremely popular in the lighting schemes of the new millennium. Their small size and bright white
illumination makes them very popular in both commercial and domestic installations. They are available
as a 12 V bi-pin package in 20, 35 and 50 W and as a 230 V bayonet type cap (called a GU10 or GZ10
cap) in 20, 35 and 50 W. At 20 lumens of light output over its intended lifespan of 2000 h they are more
energy efficient than GLS lamps. However, only lamps offering more than 40 lumens of light output are
considered energy efficient by the Government’s criteria.

88
 Figure 270 Tungsten Halogen Dichronic Lamp

c) Discharge lamps
Discharge lamps do not produce light by means of an incandescent fi lament but by the excitation of a gas
or metallic vapour contained within a glass envelope. A voltage applied to two terminals or electrodes
sealed into the end of a glass tube containing a gas or metallic vapour will excite the contents and produce
light directly. Fluorescent tubes and CFLs operate on this principle.

d) Fluorescent tube
A fluorescent lamp is a linear arc tube, internally coated with a fluorescent powder, containing a low-
pressure mercury vapour discharge. The lamp construction is shown in Fig. 45 and the control circuit in
om

Fig 46.
.c
et
tv

Fluorescent luminaire is equipment which supports an electric lamp and distributes or filters the light
sy
ea

created by the lamp. It is essentially the ‘light fitting’. A lamp is a device for converting electrical energy
into light energy. There are many types of lamps. General lighting service (GLS) lamps and tungsten
halogen lamps use a very hot wire filament to create the light and so they also become very hot in use.
Fluorescent tubes operate on the ‘dis-charge’ principle; that is, the excitation of a gas within a glass tube.
They are cooler in operation and very efficient in converting electricity into light. They form the basic
principle of most energy efficient lamps. Fluorescent lamps are linear arc tubes, internally coated with a
fluorescent powder, containing a little low pressure mercury vapour and argon gas.Passing a current
through the electrodes of the tube produces a cloud of electrons that ionize the mercury vapour and the
argon in the tube, arc radiates much more UV than visible light: almost all the visible light from a
fluorescent tube comes from the phosphors Glass, internally coated with fluorescent phosphor, cut away
to reveal cathode-pin cap Tube filled with argon and mercury vapour Cathode coated with electron
emitting material and fitted with cathode shield producing invisible ultraviolet light and some blue light.
The fluorescent powder on the inside of the glass tube is very sensitive to ultraviolet rays and converts this
radiation into visible light. Fluorescent luminaires require a simple electrical circuit to initiate the
ionization of the gas in the tube and a device to control the current once the arc is struck and the lamp is
illuminated.
89
 Figure 271 Fluorescent lamp construction

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 272 Fluorescent Lamp circuit arrangement

e) Compact fluorescent lamps CFLs
These are miniature fluorescent lamps designed to replace ordinary GLS lamps. They are available in a
variety of shapes and sizes so that they can be fitted into existing light fittings. Figure 46 shows three
typical shapes. The ‘stick’ type gives most of their light output radially while the flat ‘double D’ type give
most of their light output above and below. Energy efficient lamps use electricity much more efficiently
than an equivalent GLS lamp. For example, a 20 W energy efficient lamp will give the same light output
as a 100 W GLS lamp. An 11 W energy-efficient lamp is equivalent to a 60 W GLS lamp. Energy efficient
lamps also have a lifespan of about eight times longer than a GLS lamp and so, they do use energy very
efficiently. However, energy efficient lamps are expensive to purchase and they do take a few minutes to
attain full brilliance after switching on. They cannot always be controlled by a dimmer switch and are
unsuitable for incorporating in an automatic presence detector because they are usually not switched on
long enough to be worthwhile, but energy-efficient lamps are excellent for outside security lighting which

90
is left on for several hours each night. The electrical contractor, in discussion with a customer, must
balance the advantages and disadvantages of energy-efficient lamps compared to other sources of
illumination for each individual installation

Figure 273 Energy efficient lamps

Inventory management
If your business uses a lot of tools and equipment, keeping track of inventory will be no easy task. From
om

small tools like hammers to saws and big equipment like rollers/cement mixers, individual equipment
.c
et
tv

tracking becomes a huge concern for the organization. Deviations from the record can cause a delay in
sy
ea

project completion.
Tool data irregularity can cause Shutdowns, Turnarounds, and Outages (STO’s) where the cost of project
completion becomes 3-4 times the actual cost.
This may lead to inaccurate decision making, inefficient planning, and an inability to stick to the
contract. To complete the project on time, most stakeholders just reorder the equipment rather than
locating it, which further increases project costs.
The main reasons you cannot find your tools are:
1. Tools are not there and/or they have arrived in the wrong quantity: if the tools that are
supposed to be shipped haven’t reached the designated location or they are shipped to another,
you will have a missing tool report.
2. Tools have been moved: maybe the tool is still in the warehouse. But someone moved elsewhere
without anyone knowing or they have placed it in the wrong location after using it, so it will
classify as missing.
3. Theft/Misplacement: one of the most common reasons for missing tools is theft. Someone took
the tool to work and didn’t return it. Or after using it, they misplaced it.

91
 4. The log is not recorded correctly: if the log sheet says that someone has issued the tool while
it’s actually still on the premises, it won’t be used if there is a requirement. Conversely, if
someone is using the tool but the log sheet says that the tool is available, people will look for it.
That will cause confusion, halt work, and waste precious time.
However, there are some tips and tricks you can implement to make sure you keep a good track of your
tools and equipment.

Track all inventory

Tracking your inventory is the best thing that you can do.
A good inventory tracking system means it is accurate and up to date. You can do cycle checks instead
of daily tracking to reduce the time and effort required for inventory checking.
You may also have a central database where you list everything you own. That will reduce theft, as
everyone will know if something’s missing.
Inventory checks also make sure you allocate an appropriate budget for the inventory. Most of the time,
businesses have much more inventory than they need.
Even if that’s not your case, when tracking your inventory, you will be on top of work requirements and
order equipment correctly the next time you need it.
om
.c

Categorize Tools and Equipment

et
tv
sy

Categorizing tools and equipment can help you identify where similar tools are kept and which ones can
ea

be used interchangeably.
While you can categorize your inventory granularly in a program, you can place interchangeable tools in
the same location for easier access.
You can divide tools into various categories, in a way that suits your business model best.
For example, you can organize tools by site and divide small and large tools. Other categories can be:
• Type of tool (hand tool, power tool)
• Tool brand
• Use for that tool (indoor, outdoor)
Organize tools as you see fit, but it would be wise to include information on equipment’s status,
purchase date, and warranty expiration date.

Tag individual items

Tagging items in your inventory will enable you to track, identify and locate each tool you have. You
can tag equipment in many ways, barcodes and RFID chips being the most common.
We will explain the benefits of each option later.
Track tool usage
92
You should know which tool is being used more, how much is it being used, who is using it, and how
much does it cost to ship it.
These insights will help you prioritize tools by requirement and transport price so you don’t spend an
extra dime on tools than you absolutely have to.
If a tool is collecting dust in a warehouse while it’s needed somewhere—the business suffers.
Most importantly, if a tool gets stolen, you’ll have the record of who was the last person handling it,
when they used it, and the last location they used the tool. This is important as over time, the cost of lost
tools adds up.
Checking in and checking out tools will help make a strategy for further equipment management.
Track Repairs and Warranties
If you’re using one tool daily and another one once a month, the tool you use every day requires more
maintenance, and it’s more likely to break.
Also, when you have information about the equipment usage, you can plan maintenance for idle tools or
machines due for checkups. Being well organized will not affect business processes, and will keep your
equipment up and running.
Monitor which tools are under the warranty as you could maintain/fix them free of cost. This will make
om

sure you spend money and time only on that tools/equipment that really need it.
.c
et

What happens if the tool breaks?

tv
sy

Track which tools are regularly out of commission. If something breaks, try to understand the reason
ea

behind it, especially if it happens more often than it should. You can do that by collecting data and
conducting trend analysis.
Answer the following questions and you’ll have a better understanding of why something breaks:
• Is the equipment not being used properly (handling error)?
• Are they not being used according to correct voltage specifications?
• Does it require a resting period before reuse?
Not only does a broken tool costs time and money to fix it, but your workers would also be idle while
it’s getting fixed if there’s no replacement available.
To save money in the long run, try to buy quality equipment from a trustworthy brand.
Determine optimum utilization
When categorizing tools, you can gather more data for each one.
For instance, you can find out which tools employees like better and which ones are the most effective in
getting the job done.
Compare that with the cost and find information on how many companies are making it. Then, try to
research which brand has the most durable equipment. Do a cost analysis to figure out which tools drain

93
you most financially, either by physical issue (breaking too early) or logistical issue (too much
requirement?)
With that intelligence, you’ll be able to make smarter decisions.
Equipment usage accountability
Making individual workers accountable for the equipment they use is a sure-fire way to reduce thefts and
counting errors.
Here’s what you can do.
• Use technology: use a tool management system instead of a manual record and make sure your
employees know how to use it. That way they can self-check-in or check-out the required tools.
• Bring your employees up to speed about the tool tracking system you chose and explain how
everything functions. You can also put a tool handling and usage chart in the workplace for a
better understanding.
• Create a tool handling agreement to make sure your workers understand accountability
associated with issuing that tool. Tell them about established laws related to the theft of tools and
remind them of the consequences.
• Establish rewards and fines: for an exceptional tool handling, you can also issue rewards. This
will motivate people to handle the tools better. Fines can be given to those who don’t follow the
om
.c

rules. Workers who “lose” tools frequently can pay for the equipment out of their paycheck, if
et
tv
sy

this will be your p.

ea

Asset management system

Pen and paper tracking can work for small organizations; however, an asset management
system/inventory management system should be used to manage tools in a large organization. It reduces
inventory errors and increases safety for tools.
Along with the tagging system, you can formulate a real-time asset tracker for more precise information.
You might think, “I can manage my tools with a logbook and RFID tags. Why should I pay for software
to do that?”
Well, there are huge advantages to using a dedicated software solution for tool tracking. Pen and paper
solutions or spreadsheets are nowhere near good enough then the software method.
Here are some advantages of professional tool and asset management software over paper
tracking/spreadsheets:
So now that you know the benefits of a professional tracking solution—how do you choose a tracking
solution?
There are many available on the market. Most of them cater to different needs. We’ll explore the
features you need to be on the lookout for.
There are a few things you should consider before choosing a tool tracking solution.
94
Cloud connectivity

Storing your data on a single disk is a big security risk.

Cloud-based solutions allow users to access data from anywhere (flexibility). Also, cloud-native
architecture has firewalls and encryption settings that add another layer of security.
Scanning device
You can use either a smartphone scanner or a dedicated hand-held scanner for equipment scanning.
A handheld scanner is an extra piece of hardware that you have to buy which is why most companies
implement smartphone scanners that offer more flexibility for check-in and checkout.
6.2.3.4 Learning Activities
Workshop Practice
Practical activities Knowledge Special instruction

6. Check and identify tools, Electrical tools and Name and draw the electrical
equipment and materials equipment tools and equipment

for proper specifications

and functionality (in the
workshop)
om
.c

Tool’s storage and inventory

et

7. Store and assemble tools

tv
sy

equipment and materials management

ea

as per the established

procedure after a project

6.2.3.5 Self-Assessment
1. What are the most commonly used types of conductors?
2. Which electrical accessories are use when carrying out electrical installations
3. Cables consists of three major parts. Name the parts
4. Below are tools and equipment used when preparing steel conduit for installation. What is the function
of each?

95
6.2.3.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Recommended Resources

Tools and equipment Materials and supplies

➢ Cable Strippers
• Stationery
➢ Pliers
• Cables
➢ Screw drivers
• Light fittings
➢ Hammers
• Accessories
➢ Chisels
• Conduits and fittings
➢ Allen keys
• Cable trays
➢ Electrician knives
• Cable ducts
➢ Crimping tools
➢ Bending springs • Trunkings

➢ Bending machine • Computers

➢ Steel tapes • Drawing instruments

➢ Draw wires • Screws

➢ Hack saws
om

➢ Drilling tools
.c
et

➢ Stock and die

tv
sy
ea

➢ Bench vice
➢ Machine vice
➢ PPE – hand gloves, dust coats, dust
masks, helmets, ear muffs, industrial
boots
Reference materials

• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards

96
6.2.3.7 References

Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.

(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.

(n.d.). County by-laws.

Drawing instruments and their uses. (2017). SILO inc.

Farook, S. (2020, November 15th).

file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf. Retrieved from
https://www.academia.edu/28179408/Lecture_2_Line_Types:
file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf

https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/. (2020, November 19). Retrieved from

https://gocodes.com: https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/

https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png
om

https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad. (2020, November 17).

.c
et

Retrieved from www.designtechcadacademy.com:

tv
sy

https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad
ea

https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-
ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-
the-reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412

(n.d.). IEE regulations 17th Edition.

J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.

Linsley, T. (2008). Basic Electrical Installation Work. Elsevier Ltd.

(2016). Mines Act.

(n.d.). National Construction Authority (NCA) regulations.

(n.d.). National Enviromental Management Authority(NEMA) regulations.

(2007). Occupation Safety and Health Act.

97
safety, C. c. (2020, November 23). https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html.
Retrieved from https://www.ccohs.ca:
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html

sheahan, K. (2020, November 23). https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-general-shop-safety-

rules.html. Retrieved from https://careertrend.com: https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-
general-shop-safety-rules.html

standard, 2. C. (2020, November 15th ). https://www.cad-standard.com/technical-drawing-

basics/drawing-paper-sizes. Retrieved from www.cad-standard.com: https://www.cad-
standard.com/technical-drawing-basics/drawing-paper-sizes

UNICEF. (1992). 162 p. Retrieved from http://www.nzdl.org/gsdlmod?e=d-00000-00---off-0cdl--00-0---

-0-10-0---0---0direct-10---4-------0-1l--11-en-50---20-help---00-0-1-00-0--4----0-0-11-10-0utfZz-
8-00&cl=CL1.68&d=HASH01221928a8ae1bc2f8253cba.8&gt=1

Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.

(2007). Work Injury Benefits Act.

www.femalifesafety.org. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.femalifesafety.org/types-of-

extinguishers.html
om

www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic. (2020, November 16th). Retrieved

.c
et

from www.helenhudspith.com: www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic

tv
sy
ea

6.2.3.8 Model answers to self-assessment

1. What are the most commonly used types of conductors?
• Copper
• Aluminium
2. Which electrical accessories are use when carrying out electrical installations

• Lamp holders
• Conduits
• Ceiling roses

• Patress
3. Cables consists of three major parts. Name the parts
• Conductor
• Insulator
• Mechanical protection or sheath

98
4. Below are tools and equipment used when preparing steel conduit for installation. What is the function
of each?
b. Stock and die; threading
c. Hacksaw; cutting

6.2.4 Learning Outcome 4 Install electrical system

6.2.4.1 Introduction to the learning outcome

To install electrical system, one requires to apply appropriate installation procedures and technical
standards, implement working drawing, adhere to IEE regulations during installations, adhere to
safety procedures for each activity, install cables, conductors, conduits, enclosures and support
systems to specifications and label installation for identification.

6.2.4.2 Performance Standards

6.2.4.2.1 Apply appropriate installation procedures and technical standards
6.2.4.2.2 Implement working drawing
6.2.4.2.3 Adhere to IEE regulations during installation
om

6.2.4.2.4 Adhere to safety procedures for each activity

.c
et

6.2.4.2.5 Install cables, conductors, conduits, enclosures and support systems to specifications.
tv
sy
ea

6.2.4.2.6 Label installation for identification

6.2.4.3 Information Sheet
Cables
A cable is a length of single conductor having one or several wires stranded together, or two or more
such conductors each provided with its own insulation and laid together. The insulated conductors may
or may not be further covered with an overall protective sheath to prevent mechanical damage. The
insulated conductors are referred to as the cores of the cable.
Sometimes bare or insulated conductors are used for overhead installations, or they are enclosed in a
metal casing for rising (vertical) and lateral (horizontal) main supplies in buildings.
Cable consist of three essential parts:
• Conductor – to carry the current
• Insulation (dielectric) – to provide the means to prevent leakage of current
• External overall protection against mechanical damage, chemical attack, fire or other external
damaging factors to the cable.
Cable layouts and wiring systems

99
Because of the complexity and hazards involved in the installation of cables in the many types of building
and their surroundings, there are quite a number of different types of cables and wiring systems in use.
Each is designed to meet and withstand the elements it will encounter and at the same time fit with the
overall building construction in terms of convenience and appearance.
It is the responsibility of the contractor, designer or sometimes electrician, himself to study carefully the
building specification and decide upon the type of cables and wiring systems most suitable.
Wiring system
A wiring system consist of conductors, insulators, means of mechanical protection and all accessories
associated with installation.
Factors affecting choice of wiring system
1. Type of building construction – is it permanent or temporary structure, hospital, workshop, office
or dwelling house will help to decide the routing, fixing and terminations
2. Flexibility of the system –change of location of equipment such as machine shops and temporary
buildings i.e. must be flexible to needs of future alterations and modifications.
3. Installation conditions/special adverse conditions – protection against mechanical damage
requirements and working heights. Also, conditions that are harmful to the wellbeing of a wiring
system must be considered e.g. presence of flammable vapours risk of mechanical damage and
om
.c

presence of corrosive environment such as dampness.

et
tv
sy

4. Appearance of finished installation (aesthetics) – can be run on surface or concealed e.g.

ea

exposed conduit system cannot be used in an executive office.

5. Durability – life of the installation
6. Economics/ Cost – Cost of installation and money available. The cost of the wiring system must
be compared to get the relative cheap system without compromising on the safety of the wiring.
7. Type of load to be supplied –should be made to the level of voltage expected in the circuit e.g.
low voltage, medium voltage or extra high voltage.
Terminating and Jointing P.V.C. Cables
Stripping P.V.C. Cables.
A single-core p.v.c. cable should be stripped by holding the cutting knife at an angle to the cable and
cutting away from the hand holding the cable. Multi-core cable is stripped by running the cutting knife
along the centre of the cable and then nicking the end of the cable to give two finger grips. This allows
the sheathing to be pulled down the cable with the thumb and forefinger of each hand. The sheath is then
folded on top of the cable and cut by drawing the knife between the sheathing and the cable.

100
 Knife

Cable

Figure 274 Stripping cable

There are two basic methods of joining electrical conductors: (a) mechanical joints; and (b) soldered
joints.
Mechanical Jointing.
This is done by using connector blocks. These consist of one-way or multi-way brass terminal blocks
enshrouded with porcelain or plastic insulation. The connector must be capable of containing all the
strands of the conductor.
Another method, usually used with larger cables, is mechanical crimping. This is done by placing a
sleeve over the conductors to be jointed and crimping (squeezing) the connection with a manual or
hydraulically operated crimping jack.
Soldered Joints.
Materials required: pliers, sharp knife, soldering bit, flux, blowlamp (or butane gas cylinder), solder,
p.v.c. tape and black insulating tape.
om
.c

Soldering Bit. Every joint which is made by twisting strands together must be soldered. Where a lot of
et
tv
sy

single-core jointing is being carried out, it is often convenient to use a heavy bit which has a slot filed in
ea

it to take cables. The soldering bit should be heated until a green flame appears and must always be kept
clean. Always' tin' the bit with flux and solder before using. Flux. The purpose of the flux is to remove
the oxide film from the surface of the conductor and prevent it from re-forming.
Blowlamp. This should be operated as follows:
1. The lamp should not be more than two-thirds full.
2. Leave the valve open when starting.
3. Start lamp with small rag dipped in methylated spirits.
4. When the lamp is hot, the valve should be closed and the pump operated.
5. The pump forces the paraffin through the heated vaporizing tube and out of the nozzle where it is
ignited under pressure.
6. The blowlamp should be played against an asbestos sheet until the flame is fully established.
Solder. Two basic types of solder are used in electrical work: fine solder (tinman's solder), which is 60
parts tin and 40 parts lead, and plumber's metal, which is 30 parts tin and 70 parts lead. Fine solder
melts more easily, as tin has a lower melting point than lead, and so it is commonly used for electrical

101
joints. Plumber's metal is used for 'plumbing' joints in armoured cables, as it remains in a plastic state,
allowing it to be shaped, longer than fine solder.
Methods of Soldering.
There are three methods used for soldering conductors:
(a) soldering bit,
(b) 'stick' method
(c) (metal) pot and ladle method.
Soldering Bit. The conductors to be jointed are first smeared with a resinous flux. The tinned bit is then
applied under the joint until the heat penetrates it. The stick of solder is then applied to the joint until
the solder flows freely through it.
‘Stick’ Method. In this method, the joint is first heated with a blowlamp, flux being applied. The solder
is then applied by pressing the stick of solder against the heated joint until it penetrates the joint. Care
should be taken to protect the insulation against the blowlamp flame.
Pot and Ladle Method. This method is commonly used by jointers when jointing heavy conductors. A
solder pot is heated until the solder is running freely. The solder should not be overheated as this will
burn the tin and a dross will form on the surface of the solder. When the solder has reached working
temperature it is taken from the pot with a ladle. The solder is then poured over the prepared joint and
om
.c

is caught by another ladle placed under the joint. This action is repeated until the solder penetrates the
et
tv
sy

joint.
ea

Soldering Aluminium.
The following special points should be noted when soldering aluminium:
▪ All surfaces must be scrupulously clean.
▪ When making a joint between stranded conductors ' step' the strands to increase the surface
area.
▪ The surface must be heated before the flux is applied as the flux will only take when the
temperature is high enough.
▪ Apply aluminum solder until the complete surface is bright.
▪ Joints in aluminum should be protected from contact with the atmosphere. This can be done by
painting, taping, or compounding.

Soldering a Socket (or Lug). The method used is as follows

5. Strip insulation back about 5 cm.
2. Tin the socket.
3. Smear both the socket and the bared conductor with flux.

102
 4. Fit the socket to the conductor. The socket should be a hammer fit.
If the socket is too large, the conductor can be enlarge with a tinned- wire binding or. Better still, by
pressing a strand of cable into the centres of the conductor.
5 Play the blowlamp in the top of the socket until the heat has penetrated the conductor, and then
apply a stick of solder to the lip of the socket. The completed connection should have a rim of
solder showing round the lip the socket; this can be done by applying plumber’s metal as the
joint is cooling
6 When the termination is cooled, cut back damaged insulation and apply p.v.c or cambric tape
7 Tape is used to replace insulation which has been removed prior to jointing

Do not attempt to cool a soldered joint by pouring water over it. This can lead to an effect
joint known as a dry joint. Never smooth the joint with a file but use a dry cloth before it sets.

Tape

Cable
Soldered socket
om
.c
et
tv

Figure 275 section through soldered socket

sy
ea

Through joint
This joint is made by using mechanical connectors, compressor ferrules or grip-type (weak back)
soldered sleeves.
The completed joint is wrapped with p.v.c. tap. The joint can further be protected by the use of a cold
pouring of resin compound to fill the protection box.
Solder

Weak-backed ferrite

Figure 276 Straight-through joint using weak-backed ferrule

Straight-through joint using weak-backed ferrule
A weak-backed ferrule is a tubular piece of tinned-copper opened along the top and weakened at the
bottom thus allowing it to be closed or opened easily.
Procedure of making the joint
103
 1. Strip insulation back from both of the conductors.
2. Clean and tin ferrule
3. Place ferrule on cable. Butt cables together before tightening the ferrule
4. Wind small pieces of cloth at each end of the ferrule to contain the molten metal
5. Solder the connection
6. Remove damaged insulation and apply tape.

Tee (breeches) Joint

This joint is used to tee-off a service from an armoured cable. The weak-backed ferrule is often used.
Mechanical connectors or compression ferrule can also be used
Cold pouring
Resin
Conductor compound
Primary insulation connection Plastic box

Armour
bond
om
.c

Figure 277 Tee (breeches) joint

et
tv
sy

Armoured cable
ea

This cable is used where there is a likelihood of the insulation or conductor being subjected to
mechanical damage. This can occur when the cable is run underground.
There are two main types of armoured cables:
a) Paper insulated lead covered steel wire or steel tape armoured cables, abbreviated as
P.I.L.C.S.W.A. and P.I.L.C.S.T.A cables respectively
b) P.V.C.armoured cable
P.I.L.C.S.W.A.
The cable has the following parts
a) An inner core of jute used to keep the cable circular.
b) Copper or aluminium conductors insulated with mineral oil-impregnated paper.
c) A lead sheath which contains the insulation and is also used as an earth continuity conductor
d) Jute bedding tape impregnated with bitumen that protects the lead from armouring
e) Galvanized steel wire (one layer) or steel tape (two layers).
f) Bitumen impregnated jute serving
Termination of P.I.L.C.S.W.A. cable

104
 1. Place binder 1m from end of cable
2. Remove serving to this point
3. Bend steel wire armouring back until it is clear to lead sheath
4. Remove about 13cm of lead sheath and clean the remainder
5. Place brass gland on cable, leaving approximately 10cm of lead sheath showing. Wedge gland
with wood to keep it central on cable
6. Use plumber’s metal to plumb the joint
7. Clean galvanized wire paraffin rag and shape the wire over the plumb
8. Clamp wires on the gland and bolt the gland on sealing chamber
9. Cut back paper insulation on conductors and make through-joint to V.R.I conductors, using
weak-back ferrule
10. Assemble sealing chamber and pour in hot bitumen to seal oil-impregnated paper against
moisture
P.V.C. Armoured Cable
This is made up of p.v.c insulated cores packed with p.v.c. to give a circular cross section. An
outer p.v.c. sheath covers the galvanized steel wire.
om
.c
et

Steel wire armouring

tv
sy
ea

Tough P.V.C outer sheath P.V.C insulation

Copper coductors

Figure 278 P.V.C armoured cable

Termination of P.V.C. armoured cable
The following must be taken into consideration when terminating
1. P.v.c. must be protected from heat
2. P.v.c. tapes must be used for insulating the conductors
3. Care must be taken when clamping and cleaning the galvanized wire so that it is not broken
as it is the sole earth continuity conductor
4. The temperature of the hot pouring compound should not melt the p.v.c. insulation of
conductors. Dip a piece of scrap p.v.c. into the compound before pouring to test the
temperature.

105
Mineral Insulated Metal Sheathed (M.I.M.S.) Cable
This cable consists of three parts. These are:
Copper or aluminium conductors
Each core consists of a single copper conductor. Common core numbers are 1,2,3,4and 7
Insulation
The insulation between the cores is magnesium oxide. It can withstand high temperatures but is
absorbent to moisture
Outer sheath
Is a seamless copper or aluminium tube
Advantages and disadvantages OF M.I.M.S. CABLE (table 6)
Table 18 advantages and disadvantages of M.I.M.S

Advantages Disadvantages
Heat resistant. Can withstand temperatures up Expensive
to 2500C
The sheath provides an excellent earth Termination takes time
continuity conductor
om

Is mechanically strong must be protected Has greater voltage drop per metre at the
.c
et

against shape edges same current rating

tv
sy

High current density

ea

Does not deteriorate with age

Cable Termination
• Termination is the entry of a cable end into an accessory. In case of a stranded conductor, the
strands should be twisted tightly together before termination. Great care must be taken not to
damage the wires. The I.E.E. Regulation requires that a cable termination of any kind shall securely
anchor all the wires of the conductor and shall not impose any mechanical stress on the terminal or
socket. If a soldering socket is used, then it must contain all the strands of the conductor.
• A termination under mechanical stress is liable to disconnection. When current is flowing in a
cable, certain amount of heat is developed, and the consequent expansion and contraction may
force the cable out of the terminal or socket.
• If one or more strands of the cable were to be left out of the terminal or socket, there would be a
reduction in the effective cross-sectional area of the conductor at the point. When terminating
rubber insulated cable, the technician should avoid exposing the rubber insulation and conductors
to the atmosphere. In conditions of heat or moisture, the terminations should be sealed.

106
• Mineral insulated copper sheathed cables are terminated in sealed glands. A common arrangement
is the screw-on pot-type seal, in which a small metal pot is screwed on to the copper sheath. Cold
plastic compound is then pressed into the pot and a fibre cap and insulating sleeves and threaded
over conductors and crimped into position.
• If an insulation test indicates that moisture has entered the mineral insulation, the gland must be
undone, the moisture driven out using a blowlamp and the seal re-made.
Types of terminal.
The most commonly used methods of securing conductors in accessories are:
Pillar terminals,
A pillar terminal has a hole through its side into which the conductor in inserted and then secured by a
set screw. If the conductor is small in relation to the hole, it should be doubled back. When two or
more conductors are to go into the same terminal, they should first be tightly twisted together. In the
case of flexible cord terminations, the strands must be twisted up (and then bent back if room permits)
before being entered into the terminal.
• screw head, and
• Nuts and washers.
om

When fastening conductors under screw heads or nuts, it is best to form the conductor end into an eye
.c
et

by means of the round-nosed pliers. The eye should be slightly larger than the screw shank, but smaller
tv
sy

than the outside diameter of the screw head, nuts or washers. The eye should be placed in such a way
ea

that rotation of the screw head or nut tends to close the joint in the eye. If the eye is put the opposite
way round, the motion of the screw or nut will tend to untwist the eye, and will probably result in
imperfect contact.
The importance of good contact cannot be over-stressed. Poor contact introduces resistances at the
termination and leads to over-heating eventually leading to fire.
Solder less lug connections are now being used to some extent in the electrical contracting industry,
particularly for terminating small sized cables. Lugs of this type are made from solid copper and are
tinned. They are fastened to cable ends by crimping. Hand crimping tools usually accommodate
several cable sizes in a fixed head.
For the larger sized lugs, there are hydraulic crimping machines with capacities of several tonnes
Termination Tools
• The following tools are required while terminating an electrical cable
• A sharp knife,
• A pair of side-cutters and
• A soldering iron.

107
• The knife should be sharpened periodically. The cutting edge of pliers and side-cutters should not
be used for purposes other than that for which they are intended. The bit of the soldering iron
should be kept clean.
• For compliance with the I.E.E. Regulations, joints in cables must be;
• Made by soldering or by mechanical clamps
• Mechanically and electrically sound
• Provided with insulation not less effective than that of the cable cores,
• Protected against moisture and mechanical damage
• Accessible for inspection (except in the case of buried cables)
Soldering
• The type of solder to be used for twist-joints is called’ tin man’s solder.’ It is a soft solder
consisting of 60 parts tin to 40 parts leads, with a melting point of 2000C (about one-fifth of the
melting point of copper). To make the solder flow readily over a surface, a flux is required. The
function performed by the flux is largely that of cleaning the surface and of reducing any oxide to
the metallic state.
• For electrical work, pure amber resin is the safest flux to use, because it does not cause any
om

corrosion of the metal. Soldering fluxes containing acid or other corrosive substances, such as zinc
.c
et

chloride solution (killed spirits) must not be used for this work
tv
sy
ea

The Soldering iron

• When the soldering iron is heated, the surface should be cleaned, a small quantity of resin is
applied and then the stick of solder lightly touched. The surface should then have a bright silvery
appearance. Powdered resin is applied to the joint which is then laid in a shallow pool of solder.
After a short period, the solder will run up into the strands, at which point joint can be removed
from the iron and allowed to cool. Sometimes, soldering bits are grooved so that the portion of
joint to be soldered can be placed in the groove, thus giving a larger area of surface contact
between the two.
• A well-soldered joint should present a smooth, bright appearance. It is important to remember that
wiping the join before it cools destroys this appearance and is liable to roughen the surface and
become detrimental to the insulation.
• To avoid damaging the cable insulation near the joint the soldering process should be carried out as
quickly as possible. The tendency to burn the insulation is less with a really hot soldering iron than
with a cooler one which takes longer to do the job. It is sometimes possible to roll back some of the
insulation before soldering and to unroll it afterwards.

108
• The metal pot and ladle. An iron metal pot about three quarters full of solder, together with the
ladle, is heated until the solder is fluid. Any impurities can then be skimmed off the surface. The
joint is held over the pot and sprinkled with resin a small amount being allowed to fall into the
solder. The ladle should be filled with solder and this should be poured heavily over the joint so
as to raise its temperature as rapidly as possible, thereby avoiding damage to the insulation.
Pouring is repeated, adding resin as necessary, until the required coating is achieved; at the same
time any points that may form are carefully brushed off.
• In the case of a termination, both the lug and the cable end must be heated and ‘tinned’ before
any attempt is made to insert cable end in position.
• The blowlamp. Before starting to solder, see that the blow lamp is about two- thirds full of
paraffin. For pouring, it is best to fit a funnel in the filler cap. A piece of cotton waste s then
placed in the annular trough, soaked in methylated spirit, and ignited. It is possible to use
paraffin for this purpose, but methylated spirit gives a cleaner flame and starts the lamp quicker.
By operating the pump, the pressure inside the reservoir can be increased. This pump reaches
nearly to the bottom of the reservoir and is provided with a non- return valve. AS the pressure
increases, paraffin will be forced up the tube and becomes vaporized by the heat from the
om

burning waste. Vapour, so formed, will then issue from the orifice (or jet) at high velocity and
.c
et

after mixing with air drawn in through holes at the side of the chamber, will burn at the nozzle.
tv
sy

• To enable the blowlamp to work continuously after it has once started, the tube conveying
ea

paraffin from the reservoir to the jet is led near the flame, so that the paraffin is vaporized by the
heat of the lamp itself. The pressure inside the reservoir is also maintained by the heat of the
lamp. As this pressure is high, the base of the lamp is curved inward to give additional strength.
• To stop the blowlamp working, the valve is opened. The flow of paraffin then stops due to the
reduction in pressure. When using the blowlamp to solder a joint, the flame should be directed
into the middle of the joint. As the conductor attains the melting temperature of solder, resin and
solder, are rubbed into it alternately until it becomes saturated with solder.
• Because of the risk of causing damage, it is advisable to wrap the ends of the insulation with
dampened cloth tape before soldering joints with the aid of a blowlamp. Before sweating a cable
socket using a blowlamp the interior of the socket must be cleaned. The inside if then tinned by
heating and introducing solder and resin. After almost filing the socket with molten solder, the
cable end, rubbed with resin, is pushed into it. The solder should run up into the strands of the
cable, and should be evenly dispersed round the conductor. The blowlamp jet should always be
kept clear by using the pricker as necessary. It is bad practice to operate the pump to clean the
jet, if the flame has gone out.

109
 • Blowpipes utilizing propane or butane gases are gradually superseding paraffin blowlamps.
Special soldering techniques are used for alluminium.
EXERCISE 1
Stripping and preparing 1/1.13mm cable end for entry into an accessory

Correct angle of knife blade Braid and tape removed Conductor bent over

Procedure;
• Remove braid, tape and rubber from the end 25mm of cable
• Remove braid and tape (if any) for a further 15mm
• Bend exposed conductor in two.
• Make a drawing of the cable and its full size, giving actual dimension

EXERCISE 2

A Britannia joint between two pieces of 1/1 .78 mm cable

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Producer:
• Strip and clean one end of each piece for 75mm.
• Strip off braid and tape for a further 15mm on each piece
• Bend the end 6mm of each conductor at right angles
• Clamp the two conductors together so that the ends project outwards.
• Tightly bind both conductors with a tinned copper wire, carrying the binding about 6mm past each
end.
• Solder the whole length of the binding.
• Make a drawing of the joint twice its full size, giving actual dimensions.

EXERCISE 3
A Bellhangers’ joint between two pieces of 1/1.13mm cable.

Procedure
• Strip and clean one end of each piece for 90mm.
110
• Strip off braid and tape (if any) for a further 15mm on each piece.
• Cross the conductors at about 25mm from the insulation, keeping the left-hand conductor in front.
• With the pliers grip the crossed conductors together just to the left of the point of crossing.
• Bend the two conductors at right-angles to the crossing.
• Twist the left-hand conductor tightly round the right-hand one for six turns.
• Twist the right-hand conductor tightly round the left-hand one for six turns.
• Cut off surplus conductors on the bevel with side-cutters and smooth over with pliers.
• Solder the whole length of the joint.
• Make a drawing of the joint twice its full size, giving actual dimensions.

EXERCISE 4
A Telegraph joint between two pieces of 1/1.38 mm cable

Procedure
• Strip and clean one end of each piece for 100mm
om

•
.c

Strip off braid and tape (if any) for a further 25mm on each piece.
et
tv

•
sy

Cross the conductors at about 30mm from the insulation, keeping the left-hand conductor in front.
ea

• With the pliers grip the crossed conductors together just to the left of the point of crossing
• Twist the left-hand end and the right-hand main portion tightly together equally round a common
axis at a high pitch (that is, not too sharply) for six turns.
• In a similar way twist the right-hand end and the left-hand main portion tightly together equally
round a common axis for six turns.
• Cut off surplus conductors on the level with side-cutters and smooth over with pliers.
EXERCISE 5
A T-JOINT BETWEEN TWO PIECES OF 1/1.38MM CABLE

Procedure
• Strip and clean the through piece for a distance of 37 mm in the center.
111
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for 15mm at each side.
• Strip and clean one end of the t-piece for 100mm
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for a further 15mm.
• Place t-piece at right angles to left-hand side of bared through piece and tightly bind t-piece round
through piece.
• Cut off surplus conductor on the level and smooth over with pliers.
• Soldier the right-hand half of the binding.
• I.E.E. regulation to be studied:
• Number b6 and b19
• Question to be answered:
• What should be the minimum voltage rating of every cable in accordance with the appropriate
British standard
• What is meant by the expression of the voltage rating of cable as: (a) 600/1000, (b) 600?
• To what type of installation is twist-joining of smaller sized conductors mainly confined?
• State the I.E.E. requirements for the insulation of cables for fixed wiring.
om

• Make a drawing of the joint twice its full size, giving actual dimensions.
.c
et
tv

EXERICE 6
sy
ea

USING A MICROMETER TO MEASURE CONDUCTOR DIAMETERS

Procedure:
• Place the wire with its diameter between the anvil of the micrometer and the spindle head.
• Turn the ratchet stud until the ratchet slips to close the head on the wire.
• Note the barrel reading to the nearest 0.5 millimeter under.
• Note the number of thimble divisions and multiply by 0.01
• Obtain the complete measurement by adding the results of operations 3 and 4.
• Repeat operation 1 to 5 for each sample of wire.
• Make a drawing of a micrometer thimble and barrel twice full size to illustrate a reading of
3.18mm

EXERCISE 7
Connecting a flexible pendant
Procedure:
• Strip the ends of the cable cores and connect the conductors in the appropriate terminals of the
ceiling rose.
112
• Strip both ends of the flexible cord, unscrew the lamp-holder cap, and connect the conductors at
one end to the lampholder terminals.
• Thread the flexible cord through the lampholder cap and screw on the cap.
• Unscrew the ceiling rose cover, thread the flexible cord through it, connect the flexible cord
conductors to the appropriate terminals of the ceiling rose, and then screw on the cover.
• Make a sectional drawing of the flexible pendant about twice full size (omitting most of the
flexible cord), showing connections

EXERCISE 8
A T-JOINT BETWEEN TWO PICES OF 7/0.85 MM CABLE.

• Procedure
om

•
.c

Strip and clean the through piece for a distance of 37mm in the centre.
et
tv

•
sy

Strip off braids and tape (if any) for 15mm at each side.
ea

• Strip and clean one end of the t-piece for 230mm.

• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for a further 15mm.
• Twist strands of through piece and first 6mm of t-piece
• Untwist remainders of t-piece strands and straighten.
• Placing t-piece at right angles to centre of through piece, tightly bind t-piece strands round through
piece against the lay of the cable one at a time; four strands round left-hand half of through piece ,
and three strands round right hand half.
• Cut off surplus strands on the level and smooth over with pliers.
• Soldier joint ends.
• Make a dewing of the joint twice its full size giving actual dimensions.

EXERCISE 9
A married joint between two pieces of 7/0.85mm cable.

113
• Procedure:
• Strip and clean one end of each piece for 230mm.
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for a further 15mm on each piece.
• Twist strands of each piece for 37 mm from the insulation
• Untwist remainder of strands and straighten
• Cut out centre strands of each conductor.
• Intersperse the strands and butt the twisted portions together.
• Lightly bind the strands on the left-hand side round twisted strands
• Tightly bind the strands on the right-hand side the tightly bind them round twisted strands in the
same direction as the left-hand strands.
• Cut off surplus strands on the level and smooth over wit pliers.
• Soldier joint at ends.
• Make a drawing of the joint twice its full size giving actual dimensions.

EXERCISE 10
Soldering a 30 ampere cable socket on piece of 7/1.04mm cable, using a blowlamp
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Procedure
• Strip and clean one end of cable for about 25mm
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for a further 15mm
• Twist strands of conductor to tighten
• Cut conductor to length just sufficient to much bottom of cable socket.
• Roll up rubber insulation for about 15mm.
• Clean inside of cable socket and edge and introduce small quantity of resin and solder. Apply resin
to conductor
• Gripping socket firmly in gas pliers hold it in blowlamp flame until soldier is molted.
• Push conductor down into molten solder and hold for a short time taking care not to allow flame
too near to cable insulation. Apply further resin as necessary until solder runs up into the strands of
conductor.
• Remove termination from blowlamp flame, and allow to coll.
• Unroll rubber insulation back into place.
• Apply cord whipping tightly over the edge of braids and tape starting with a loop through which
the end can be threaded and pulled.
114
• Make a drawing of the cable socket termination twice its full size giving actual dimensions.

EXERCISE 11
Making off a 7-strands cable at a straining point.

Procedure:
• Strip and clean a piece of 7/1.04m cable for about 180mm at one end.
• Bend all 7 strands tightly round a cylindrical object of suitable diameter (eg 20mm conduits) so as
to form a loop.
• Unwind one strands up to the end of the loop then tightly bind round the 13 strands for 6mm
• Unwind each of the other strands in turn up to the binding and bind round the remaining strands for
6mm.
• Cut off the surplus portion of each binding strands at a level
• Tightly press the ends of the strands into the binding so that the finish of one strands butts on to the
start of the next then smooth over with pliers.
om

• Solder the whole of the binding using the blowlamp.

.c
et

•
tv

Make a drawing of the made off cable end twice its full size giving actual dimensions.
sy
ea

EXERCISE 12
• Soldering a cable socket on a piece of cable, using a metal pot and a ladle.
• Procedure:
• Strip and clean one end of cable for about 37mm.
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for a further 15mm.
• Twist strands of conductor to tighten.
• Cut conductor to length just sufficient to touch bottom of cable socket.
• Apply protective tape or string for about 20 mm.
• Clean inside of cable socket and edge and introduce small quantity of resign and solder. Apply
resin to conductor.
• Gripping socket firmly in gas pliers, hold it over metal containing molten solder and pour solder
from ladle heavily into the socket.
• Tin the conductor by inserting in the socket, applying resin as necessary until solder runs up into
the strands of conductor when in position.
115
 • Hold termination firmly in position and allow to cool.
• Remove protective tape or string
• Make a drawing of the cable socket termination twice its full size, giving actual dimension.
EXERCISE 15
Terminating a mineral-insulted copper-sheathed cable by means of a screw on pot type seal

Sleeve
Pot Disc
Gland

Procedure:
• Mark the cable sheath at its terminating position the make a circumferential cut with the ringing
tool.
• Start a helical tear in the sheath with either side-cutters or fork-ended stripper and continue in a
series of tears holding the tool at about 45 to the cable. Finish with the cutters in line with the cable
so as to run out the tear along the cut.
• Remove any burrs in the terminating edge of the sheath, trim back the insulating level with the
edge and clean insulation from conductors.
om

• Pass the pot, internally-threaded are first over the conductors until the thread engages the sheath.
.c
et

Screw on the pot squarely until sheath is level with shoulder of pot.
tv
sy

•
ea

Remove any dirt and metal from pot, press in a small quantity of plastic compound then add and
compress further compound until pot is filled.
• Select sleeves to suit the conductors pass the through the holes in the sealing cap after anchoring
with wedges and thread the assembly over the conductors.
• Use the special tool provided to compress compound and to Crip the rim of the sealing pot. Wipe
off surplus compound.
• Test for insulation resistance.
• Make a drawing of a cable termination twice its full size giving actual dimensions.
Conduit installations
A conduit is a tube, channel or pipe in which insulated conductors are contained. The conduit, in
effect, replaces the PVC outer sheath of a cable, providing mechanical protection for the insulated
conductors. A conduit installation can be rewired easily or altered at any time, and this flexibility,
coupled with mechanical protection, makes conduit installations popular for commercial and industrial
applications. There are three types of conduit used in electrical installation work: steel, PVC and
flexible.
i. Steel conduit
116
 Steel conduits are made to a specification and are either heavy gauge welded or solid drawn. Heavy
gauge is made from a sheet of steel welded along the seam to form a tube and is used for most
electrical installation work. Solid drawn conduit is a seamless tube which is much more expensive and
only used for special gas-tight, explosion-proof for flameproof installations. Conduit is supplied in
3.75 m lengths and typical sizes are 16, 20, 25 and
32 mm. Conduit tubing and fittings are supplied in a black enamel finish for internal use or hot
galvanized finish for use on external or damp installations.
A wide range of fittings is available and the conduit is fixed using saddles or pipe hooks, as shown in
Fig. 48.

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 279 conduit fittings and saddles

Metal conduits are threaded with stocks and dies and bent using special bending machines. The metal
conduit is also utilized as the CPC and, therefore, all connections must be screwed up tightly and all
burrs removed so that cables will not be damaged as they are drawn into the conduit. Metal conduits
containing a.c. circuits must contain phase and neutral conductors in the same conduit to prevent eddy
currents flowing, which would result in the metal conduit becoming hot.
ii. P.V.C. Conduit
PVC conduit used on typical electrical installations is heavy gauge standard impact tube. The conduit
size and range of fittings are the same as those available for metal conduit. PVC conduit is most often
joined by placing the end of the conduit into the appropriate fitting and fixing with a PVC solvent
adhesive. PVC conduit can be bent by hand using a bending spring of the same diameter as the inside of
the conduit.

117
The spring is pushed into the conduit to the point of the intended bend and the conduit then bent over the
knee. The spring ensures that the conduit keeps its circular shape. In cold weather, a little warmth
applied to the point of the intended bend often helps to achieve a more successful bend.
The advantages of a PVC conduit system are that it may be installed much more quickly than steel
conduit and is non-corrosive, but it does not have the mechanical strength of steel conduit. Since PVC
conduit is an insulator it cannot be used as the CPC and a separate earth conductor must be run to every
outlet. It is not suitable for installations subjected to temperatures below 25°C or above 60°C. Where
luminaires are suspended from PVC conduit boxes, precautions must be taken to ensure that the lamp
does not raise the box temperature or that the mass of the luminaire supported by each box does not
exceed the maximum recommended by the manufacturer. PVC conduit also expands much more than
metal conduit and so long runs require an expansion coupling to allow for conduit movement and help to
prevent distortion during temperature changes.
The advantages of a PVC conduit system are that it may be installed much more quickly than steel
conduit and is non-corrosive, but it does not have the mechanical strength of steel conduit. Since PVC
conduit is an insulator it cannot be used as the CPC and a separate earth conductor must be run to every
outlet. It is not suitable for installations subjected to temperatures below 25°C or above 60°C. Where
luminaires are suspended from PVC conduit boxes, precautions must be taken to ensure that the lamp
om
.c

does not raise the box temperature or that the mass of the luminaire supported by each box does not
et
tv
sy

exceed the maximum recommended by the manufacturer. PVC conduit also expands much more than
ea

metal conduit and so long runs require an expansion coupling to allow for conduit movement and help to
prevent distortion during temperature changes.
All conduit installations must be erected first before any wiring is installed. The radius of all bends in
conduit must not cause the cables to suffer damage, and therefore the minimum radius of bends given.
All conduits should terminate in a box or fitting and meet the boxes or fittings at right angles. Any
unused conduit-box entries should be blanked off and all boxes covered with a box lid, fitting or
accessory to provide complete enclosure of the conduit system. Conduit runs should be separate from
other services, unless intentionally bonded, to prevent arcing occurring from a faulty circuit within the
conduit, which might cause the pipe of another service to become punctured.
When drawing cables into conduit they must first be run off the cable drum. That is, the drum must be
rotated as shown in Fig. 49 and not allowed to spiral off, which will cause the cable to twist.

118
 Figure 280 Cable drum
iii. Flexible conduit
Flexible conduit is made of interlinked metal spirals often covered with a PVC sleeving. The tubing
must not be relied upon to provide a continuous earth path and, consequently, a separate CPC must be
run either inside or outside the flexible tube. Flexible conduit is made of interlinked metal spirals often
covered with a PVC sleeving.
Flexible conduit is used for the final connection to motors so that the vibrations of the motor are not
om
.c

transmitted throughout the electrical installation and to allow for modifications to be made to the final
et
tv
sy

motor.
ea

Conduit capacities
Single-PVC insulated conductors are usually drawn into the installed conduit to complete the
installation. Having decided upon the type, size and number of cables required for a final circuit, it is
then necessary to select the appropriate size of conduit to accommodate those cables.

119
 Table 19 conduit factors adapted from IEE regulations

Trunking installations
A trunking is an enclosure provided for the protection of cables which is normally square or rectangular
in cross-section, having one removable side. Trunking may be thought of as a more accessible conduit
om

system and for industrial and commercial installations it is replacing the larger conduit sizes. A trunking
.c
et

system can have great flexibility when used in conjunction with conduit; the trunking forms the
tv
sy
ea

background or framework for the installation, with conduits running from the trunking to the point
controlling the current-using apparatus. When an alteration or extension is required it is easy to drill a
hole in the side of the trunking and run a conduit to the new point. The new wiring can then be drawn
through the new conduit and the existing trunking to the supply point.
Trunking is supplied in 3 m lengths and various cross-sections measured in millimetres from 50 _ 50 up
to 300 _ 150. Most trunking is available in either steel or plastic.
i. Metallic trunking
Metallic trunking is formed from mild steel sheet, coated with grey or silver enamel paint for internal use
or a hot-dipped galvanized coating where damp conditions might be encountered and made to a
specification. A wide range of accessories is available, such as 45° bends, 90° bends, tee and four-way
junctions, for speedy on-site assembly. Alternatively, bends may be fabricated in lengths of trunking, as
shown in Fig. 55 This may be necessary or more convenient if a bend or set is non-standard, but it does
take more time to fabricate bends than merely to bolt on standard accessories.

120
 Figure 281 Alternative trunking bends
When fabricating bends the trunking should be supported with wooden blocks for sawing and fi ling, in
om
.c

order to prevent the sheet-steel vibrating or becoming deformed. Fish plates must be made and riveted or
et
tv

bolted to the trunking to form a solid and secure bend. When manufactured bends are used, the continuity
sy
ea

of the earth path must be ensured across the joint by making all fixing screw connections very tight, or
fitting a separate copper strap between the trunking and the standard bend. If an earth continuity test on
the trunking is found to be unsatisfactory, an insulated CPC must be installed inside the trunking. The size
of the protective conductor will be determined by the largest cable contained in the trunking, if the circuit
conductors are less than 16 mm 2, then a 16 mm 2 CPC will be required.
Non-metallic trunking
Trunking and trunking accessories are also available in high-impact PVC. The accessories are usually
secured to the lengths of trunking with a PVC solvent adhesive. PVC trunking, like PVC conduit, is easy
to install and is non-corrosive. A separate CPC will need to be installed and non-metallic trunking may
require more frequent fixings because it is less rigid than metallic trunking. All trunking fixings should
use round-headed screws to prevent damage to cables since the thin sheet construction makes it
impossible to countersink screw heads.
Mini-trunking
Mini-trunking is very small PVC trunking, ideal for surface wiring in domestic and commercial
installations such as offices. The trunking has a cross-section of 16 _ 16 mm, 25 _ 16 mm, 38 _ 16 mm
or 38 _ 25 mm and is ideal for switch drops or for housing auxiliary circuits such as telephone or audio
121
equipment wiring. The modern square look in switches and sockets is complemented by the mini-
trunking which is very easy to install (see Fig. 46).
Skirting trunking
Skirting trunking is a trunking manufactured from PVC or steel and in the shape of a skirting board is
frequently used in commercial buildings such as hospitals, laboratories and offices. The trunking is fitted
around the walls of a room at either the skirting board level or at the working surface level and contains
the wiring for socket outlets and telephone points which are mounted on the lid, as shown in Fig. 56.

Figure 282 Typical installation of skirting trunking and mini-trunking

Where any trunking passes through walls, partitions, ceilings or floors, short lengths of lid should be fitted
so that the remainder of the lid may be removed later without difficulty. Any damage to the structure of
om
.c

the buildings must be made good with mortar, plaster or concrete in order to prevent the spread of fi re.
et
tv

Fire barriers must be fitted inside the trunking every 5 m, or at every floor level or room dividing wall, if
sy
ea

this is a shorter distance, as shown in Fig. 57 (a). Where trunking is installed vertically, the installed
conductors must be supported so that the maximum unsupported length of non-sheathed cable does not
exceed 5 m. Figure 57 (b) shows cables woven through insulated pin supports, which is one method of
supporting vertical cables. PVC insulated cables are usually drawn into an erected conduit installation or
laid into an erected trunking installation.

122
 Figure 283 Installation of trunking (a) fire barriers in trunking (b) cable support in vertical trunking
Trunking capacities
The ratio of the space occupied by all the cables in a conduit or trunking to the whole space enclosed by
the conduit or trunking is known as the space factor. Where sizes and types of cable and trunking are not
covered by the tables in the On Site Guide a space factor of 45% must not be exceeded. This means that
the cables must not fill more than 45% of the space enclosed by the trunking. The tables take this factor
into account.
om
.c

To calculate the size of trunking required to enclose a number of cables:

et
tv

•
sy

Identify the cable factor for the particular size of conductor, see Table 8.
ea

• Multiply the cable factor by the number of conductors to give the sum of the cable factors.
• Consider the factors for trunking and shown in Table 9.
The correct size of trunking to accommodate the cables is that trunking which has a factor equal to or
greater than the sum of the cable factors.

123
Table 20 Trunking cable factors adapter from the IEE on site guide by kind permission of the Institution
of Electrical Engineers

Table 21 Trunking cable factor. Adapted from the IEE On site Guide by Kind Permission of institution of
om

Electrical Engineers
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

124
Cable tray installations
Cable tray is a sheet-steel channel with multiple holes. The most common finish is hot-dipped galvanized
but PVC-coated tray is also available. It is used extensively on large industrial and commercial installations
for supporting MI and SWA cables which are laid on the cable tray and secured with cable ties through
the tray holes. Cable tray should be adequately supported during installation by brackets which are
appropriate for the particular installation. The tray should be bolted to the brackets with round-headed
bolts and nuts, with the round head inside the tray so that cables drawn along the tray are not damaged.
Cable tray should be adequately supported during installation by brackets which are appropriate for the
particular installation. The tray should be bolted to the brackets with round-headed bolts and nuts, with
the round head inside the tray so that cables drawn along the tray are not damaged.
The tray is supplied in standard widths from 50 to 900 mm, and a wide range of bends, tees and reducers
is available. Figure 58 shows associated cable tray installations. The tray can also be bent using a cable
tray bending machine to create bends. The installed tray should be securely bolted with round-headed bolts
where lengths or accessories are attached, so that there is a continuous earth path which may be bonded to
an electrical earth. The whole tray should provide a firm support for the cables and therefore the tray
fixings must be capable of supporting the weight of both the tray and cables.
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 284 Cable tray installations

Cable ducts
This is another method of concealing electrical and other services used mainly in large industrial type
buildings. The services routes are marked out on plans so that during construction mainly of floor, ducts
are precast so that at a later date the services may be installed. The cables which are normally of larger
sizes and mainly PILCSWA type are supported by cable cleats fixed either to sides or bottom of the duct.
Suitable covers are then placed over the duct so that it hides and protects the services and makes them
easily accessible to installers and maintenance staff. Figure 59 shows an image of duct.

125
 Figure 285 Cable ducts
Installation of final circuits
Definition
A final sub-circuit is an outgoing circuit connected to a distribution board and intended to supply
electrical energy to current-using apparatus, either directly or through socket outlets or fused spur-boxes.
Examples of final sub-circuits includes; lighting, socket-outlets, cooker and water heater. A final sub-
circuit originates from the consumer control unit (CCU) or distribution board (DB). Each final sub-
circuit is protected by an appropriate fuse or circuit breaker mounted in the consumer control unit.
IEE Regulations
om

i) Where an installation comprises more than one final sub-circuit, each shall be connected to a
.c

separate way in a distribution board.

et
tv
sy

ii) The wiring of each final sub-circuit shall be electrically separate from that of every other final
ea

sub-circuit.to facilitate disconnection of each final sub-circuit for testing.

iii) Every final sub circuit shall have means of protection against excess current
iv) The neutral conductor shall never be connected in the same order as that in which the live
conductors are connected to the fuses or circuit breakers.
v) The neutral conductor shall never be connected to fuses, switches or circuit breakers.
Terms and Definitions
Circuit- an electric circuit is an arrangement of electrical conductors and associated devices for the
purpose of carrying electricity.
Live conductor- It is that conductor which carry current towards the appliance from the source.
Live- means that under working condition a difference in voltage exists between the conductor and earth.
Neutral conductor- The conductor which carries current from the appliances to the source.
Earth- This is the conductive mass of the earth whose electric potential at any point is electrically taken
to be zero.
Earth conductor- The conductor that has the same potential with the earth.

126
Phase conductor-A conductor of an AC system for the transmission of electrical energy other than a
neutral.
Potential- The level of electric pressure.
Dead- At or about earth potential zero and disconnected from any live system.
Fuse- A device for opening a circuit by means of a fuse element designed to melt when excess current
flows.
Insulation- suitable non-conducting material enclosing or surrounding or supporting a conductor.
Switch- A mechanical device for making and breaking non automatically a circuit carrying current.
Need For Switching
i. Used to put a circuit in use or out of use.
ii. Emergency switching.
iii. Isolating a circuit from the supply for maintenance.
Types of switches
1. Single pole switch
2. Double pole switch
3. Triple pole switch.
I.E.E regulation on switches
om
.c

i) All single pole switches should always be connected in the live (phase) conductor only.
et
tv
sy

ii) Fuses shall also be inserted in the live only.

ea

TYPES OF SINGLE POLE SWITCHES

1. One-way switch - This has one path only for current.

Layout symbol Schematic symbol

2. Two-way switch - This has two alternative paths for current (change over switch).

Layout symbol Schematic symbol

3. Intermediate switch – This has two double alternative current paths.

Or

Layout symbol Schematic symbol

SWITCHING OF LIGHTING POINTS

One-way switching.

127
In the one-way switching, the lamp or set of lamps is switched from one particular point. An example is
the switching at the entry of a room with one entry only. The figure 60 shows one-way switch. The ON
and OFF control of the lighting point is only at one position.

Figure 286 one-way switch

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

128
Two – Way Switching
Where it becomes necessary to have the lamp or set of lamps switched from two separate positions. An
example is a long corridor or in a room with two entries. Figure 61 shows a to-way switch. The ON and
OFF control of the lighting point is from two positions.

Figure 287 Two-way switches

om

Intermediate switching
.c

This is used in conjunction with the Two-way switching where the switching of the lamps is from more
et
tv
sy

than two points. All the other points of switching between the two two-way switches will be fitted with
ea

intermediate switches. An example of lamp controlled from THREE positions is shown in figure 62

Figure 288 Intermediate switch control

Note

129
A lamp or set of lamps may be controlled from any number of positions provided we have 2 two-way
switches and the rest of the switches been intermediate
Types of circuit connections
1. Series connection
2. Parallel connection
Series Connection
The current using equipment are connected in series or one after the other. One end of the equipment is
connected to the other end (End to End) in series connection, the current flowing is the same and the
voltage a cross each equipment will depend on the rating and its resistance
L N

Lamp 1 Lamp 2

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Switch
Figure 289 Series connection
The supply voltage is dropped individually across each lamp and depending on the ratings the voltage
across each equipment will vary but the current flowing through all the equipment is the same. That is, if
two lamps of equal resistance are connected in series to a 240 𝑉 supply, the voltage which will appear
across each lamp will be 120 𝑉 and the current will be the same in all lamps
N.B
The lamps in above example may not produce light or be dim because the light produced is equal to:
𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 = 𝑉 2/𝑅
And, V is below rated voltage
For a series connection to work, all lamps have to be good working condition in order to provide
continuity of the circuit.
Disadvantages of series connection
1. If one lamp blows, all lamps go off.
130
 2. Lamps will be dim (will not produce enough light) or may fail to light
3. Not reliable- Therefore for practical purposes series circuits are not used
Parallel connection
This is the most common arrangement for lighting circuits.
All lamps are connected across the supply and each lamp receives the supply voltage a cross it.
Each lamp can be controlled separately. If one lamp blows out, all the other will continue working.
L N

Fuse Lamp 1 Lamp 2

Switch

Figure 290 Parallel connection

om

Note:
.c
et

If separately controlled, all switches are to be connected in the live conductor and that No wire goes
tv
sy
ea

directly to the lamp by –passing the switch.

Advantages of parallel
i) All lamps receive rated voltage
ii) All lamps are bright
iii) If one lamp fails, other will not be affected
iv) Lamps can be controlled individually (separately)
Looping-In System
Looping-in of wires helps in saving materials and provides a clean piece of work. Looping – in can be
done at:
i) Switches
ii) Lamp Holders
iii) Junction Boxes
iv) Ceiling Roses
If more than one lamp is to be switched from the same switch, it becomes cheaper to loop-in at the lamp
holder for the second lamp. Figure 65 shows the theoretical diagram of a final sub-circuit of seven
lamps, two controlled separately by 1-way switches, three controlled as a group by a 1-way switch, and
131
two controlled by a 1-way switch. If the circuit were to be wired exactly as in the diagram, a large
number of joints would be necessary. Figure 66 shows the same circuit as wired by the looping-in
system. No joints are required except dry twisted joints in the terminals of the two-plate ceiling roses and
of the single-pole one-way switches.
RETURN

NEUTRAL

LIVE
LAMP FEEDS

SWITCH FEEDS

Figure 291 Lighting final circuit

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 292 Looping-in method of wiring

132
Looping in from a switch.

Fuse

Switch 2

Switch 1

Figure 293 Looping-in from a switch

In this system the Live to switch S2 is normally looped from S1.
Looping-in from a three-plate ceiling rose

Neutral
om

Live
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 294 Looping -in from a three-plate ceiling rose

A ceiling rose must not be connected in such a manner that one that one terminal remains alive when the
associated switch is OFF, unless that terminal cannot be touched when the ceiling rose is partially
dismantled to allow flexible cord replacement.
Looping-in At Junction Boxes
In this method, all the circuit wires are brought to a common Box and distributed to the switches, ceiling
roses, lamp holder’s etc.
This method of lopping in is only used where there are few lamps and more so where there is service
wiring using twin core cables.

133
 Feed in To lighting
point

To switch

COLOUR IDENTIFICATION OF CABLES

Single phase
Live - Red
Neutral- Black
Earth - Green or green /yellow
Three Phase
L1 - Red - phase
L2 - yellow - phase
om

L3 - blue - phase
.c
et

Neutral- black
tv
sy

Size of cables and rating of protective devices

ea

Cables are manufactured in different sizes and compositions and each is designed to carry a maximum
amount of current.
The current a cable can carry are given in the I.E.E Regulation tables of current ratings.
For lighting circuits, the cable commonly used is the 1𝑚𝑚2 𝑜𝑟 1.5 𝑚𝑚2 which is rated 18A depending
on the type of cable.
The most common cable used is single core and Twin flat and Twin with earth. Most lighting circuits
will be rated at either 5A or 10A because most switches are rated 5A or 10A.
The table gives 10 I.E.E Regulations protective ratings of different types of lamps.
Table 22 IEE regulations showing the protective ratings for different types of lamps

Type of Holder Maximum Rating of fuse or Circuit Breaker.

Small Bayonet type 5A
Small Edison –type screw 5A
Bayonet type 15A
Bi- pin type 15A
134
I.E.E Regulations on switches
1. Every switch or Circuit Breaker the purpose of which is not obvious shall be labelled to indicate
the apparatus it controls.
2. All single pole switches shall be always connected to the live conductor.
3. Every switch or other electric control shall be placed so as to be out of reach of a person in
contact with bath, shower unit etc.
4. In a two-wire installation connected to a supply having neither pole connected with the earth,
switch or circuit breaker shall be of double pole linked type and the fuses shall be installed in
both poles.
5. In a two-wire installation connected to a supply having one pole earthed, switches shall be
connected in the live conductor only.
POWER CIRCUITS
Final power sub-circuits
A final power sub-circuit is a circuit that allows electrical appliances to access electrical power.
All final sub-circuits must be electrically separate that is there must be no “bunching” of neutral
conductors. All neutral conductors must be connected at the distribution board in the same order as the
om
.c

line conductors.
et
tv
sy

Socket Outlet
ea

Definition.
A socket outlet is a device provided with female contacts which is intended to be fitted with the fixed
wiring and intended to receive a plug.
A device with protected current carrying contacts intended to be mounted in a fixed position and
permanently connected to a fixed wiring of an installation to enable the connection to it of a flexible cord
or flexible cable by means of a plug.
Or
Is an accessory with 3 terminals marked L- live, N- Neutral and E – Earth fitted with the fixed wiring
ready to receive a plug.

Plug
Definition
A device intended for connection to a fixed cord or flexible cable which can be engaged manually with a
socket outlet and which has current carrying contact pins which may be exposed when not engaged.

135
Socket outlet will be wired such that the terminal marked L will receive the live wire, the terminal
marked N will receive the Neutral and the one marked E will receive the earth wire. Socket outlets must
be installed in a place to wait for a plug but not the vice-versa. The figure 69 shows a diagram of a plug.
N E L

N L

Figure 295 Plug

Note;
Sometimes the earth terminal is marked with the Earth symbol
There are two ways in which socket outlets may be wired
1. Radial circuit
2. Ring circuit
om

Radial Circuit
.c
et

A radial circuit is a circuit in which the live, neutral and earth conductor start from the distribution board
tv
sy

to sockets connected in series and terminate at the last socket.

ea

Figure 296 Layout diagram of a radial circuit

136
 Consumer control
unit

2.5 mm2
Cable
EARTH

NEUTRAL

LIVE Last 13 A switched

First 13 A
switched socket outlet
socket outlet

Figure 297 wiring diagram for radial circuit

Ring Circuits
A ring circuit is defined in the I.E.E. Regulations as “a final sub-circuit in which the current-carrying and
om

the earth-continuity conductors are connected in the form of a loop, both ends of which are connected to
.c
et

a single way in a distribution board or its equivalent.

tv
sy
ea

Consumer control
unit

2.5 mm2
Cable

EARTH
LIVE

NEUTRAL

Last 13 A
switched
First 13 A socket
switched outlet
socket outlet

Figure 298 wiring diagram for a ring circuit.

Spur

137
A spur is a socket that branches off a ring circuit. The number of spurs fed from a ring circuit must not
exceed the number of sockets in the ring. The cables connecting the spur must be of the same size as that
of the ring circuit. The minimum cable size for ring and radial circuit is 2.5mm2.
Advantages of a ring circuit over a Radial circuit
1. There is total safety in ring circuit than in Radial for the circuit is in form of a ring
2. An open circuit point in the Ring circuit will not affect any other socket in the system
This is because there are two paths of current and is one path is open the current will flow
through the other
3. Smaller sizes of cables may be used in Ring than in a Radial. This is because the Ring has two
parallel current paths
4. More loads may be fed or connected to a Ring circuit than a Radial circuit of the same capacity
Disadvantages of Ring over Radial
1. More cables lengths require in a Ring than in Radial therefore becomes more expensive
2. It consumes more time to install a Ring circuit than Radial because more cables have to be
installed.
I.E.E Regulations on Ring and Radial circuit
1. A Ring circuit it may serve an unlimited number of points but shall not serve an area of more
om
.c

than 100𝑚 2
et
tv
sy

2. For a Ring final sub-circuit, the total number of spurs shall not exceed the total number of socket
ea

outlets and stationary appliances connected directly in the ring circuit.

3. Where two or more ring final sub circuit are installed, the socket outlet to be served shall
reasonably be distributed among the separate ring circuit
4. For a Radial or Ring final sub circuit the Rating of the fuse or circuit breaker at the circuit
breaker shall not exceed 30A
5. Each circuit conductor of a ring final sub circuit shall be run in the form of a Ring commencing
and returning to the same way in the circuit breaker.
6. Except where Ring is run throughout in metallic conduct, Ducts or Trunking, Earth continuity
conductor shall run in form of a ring originating and returning to same point in the circuit
breaker.
7. For a Radial circuit the current rating of the circuit conductors shall not be less than Rating of the
fuse or circuit breaker protecting the final sub- circuit
Water heating circuits
A small, single-point over-sink type water heater may be considered as a permanently connected
appliance and so may be connected to a ring circuit through a fused connection unit. A water heater of

138
the immersion type is usually rated at a maximum of 3 kW, and could be considered as a permanently
connected appliance, fed from a fused connection unit.
However, many immersion heating systems are connected into storage vessels of about 150 litres in
domestic installations, and the On-Site Guide states that immersion heaters fitted to vessels in excess of
15 litres should be supplied by their own circuit. Therefore, immersion heaters must be wired on a
separate radial circuit when they are connected to water vessels which hold more than 15 litres. Figure
73 shows the wiring arrangements for an immersion heater.
Every switch must be a double-pole (DP) switch and out of reach of anyone using a fixed bath or shower
when the immersion heater is fitted to a vessel in a bathroom. Supplementary equipotential bonding to
pipework will only be required as an addition to fault protection if the immersion heater vessel is in a
bathroom that does not have:
a. all circuits protected by a 30 mA RCD
b. Protective equipotential bonding,
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 299 Immersion water wiring

139
Cooker circuit
A cooker with a rating above 3 kW must be supplied on its own circuit but since it is unlikely that in
normal use every heating element will be switched on at the same time, a diversity factor may be applied
in calculating the cable size, as detailed in the On Site Guide.
Consider, as an example, a cooker with the following elements fed from a cooker control unit
incorporating a 13 A socket:

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Therefore, a cable capable of carrying 27.65 A may be used safely.

A cooking appliance must be controlled by a switch separate from the cooker but in a readily accessible
position. Where two cooking appliances are installed in one room, such as split-level cookers, one switch
may be used to control both appliances provided that neither appliance is more than 2 m from the switch.
Conductor size calculations
The size of a cable to be used for an installation depends upon:
• the current rating of the cable under defined installation conditions and
• the maximum permitted drop in voltage
The factors which influence the current rating are:
1. Design current: cable must carry the full load current.
2. Type of cable: PVC, MICC, copper conductors or Aluminium conductors.
3. Installed conditions: clipped to a surface or installed with other cables in a trunking.
4. Surrounding temperature: cable resistance increases as temperature increases and insulation may
melt if the temperature is too high.
5. Type of protection: for how long will the cable have to carry a fault current?
140
Regulation states that the drop in voltage from the supply terminals to the fixed current-using equipment
must not exceed 3% for lighting circuits and 5% for other uses of the mains voltage. That is a maximum
of 6.9 V for lighting and 11.5 V for other uses on a 230 V installation.
Fire alarm circuits
Through one or more of the various statutory Acts, all public buildings are required to provide an effective
means of giving a warning of fire so that life and property may be protected. An effective system is one
which gives a warning of fire while sufficient time remains for the fire to be put out and any occupants to
leave the building.
Fire alarm circuits are wired as either normally open or normally closed. In a normally open circuit, the
alarm call points are connected in parallel with each other so that when any alarm point is initiated the
circuit is completed and the sounder gives a warning of fire. The arrangement is shown in Fig.74. It is
essential for some parts of the wiring system to continue operating even when attacked by fi re. For this
reason, the master control and sounders should be wired in MI or FP200 cable. The alarm call points of a
normally open system must also be wired in MI or FP200 cable, unless a monitored system is used. In its
simplest form this system requires a high-value resistor to be connected across the call-point contacts,
which permits a small current to circulate and operate an indicator, declaring the circuit healthy. With a
monitored system, PVC insulated cables may be used to wire the alarm call points.
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 300 A simple normally open fire alarm

In a normally closed circuit, the alarm call points are connected in series to normally closed contacts as
shown in Fig. 75. When the alarm is initiated, or if a break occurs in the wiring, the alarm is activated. The
sounders and master control unit must be wired in MI or FP200 cable, but the call points may be wired in
PVC insulated cable since this circuit will always ‘fail safe’

141
 Figure 301 A simple normally closed fire alarm circuit

Alarm call points

Manually operated alarm call points should be provided in all parts of a building where people may be
present, and should be located so that no one need walk for more than 30 m from any position within the
premises in order to give an alarm. A breakglass manual call point is shown in Fig. 76. They should be
om

located on exit routes and, in particular, on the floor landings of staircases and exits to the street. They
.c
et

should be fixed at a height of 1.4 m above the floor at easily accessible, well illuminated and
tv
sy

conspicuous positions.
ea

Figure 302 Break glass manual call point

Sounders
The positions and numbers of sounders should be such that the alarm can be distinctly heard above the
background noise in every part of the premises. The sounders should produce a minimum of 65 dB, or 5
dB above any ambient sound which might persist, for more than 30 s. If the sounders are to arouse
sleeping persons then the minimum sound level should be increased to 75 dB at the bedhead. Bells,
hooters or sirens may be used but in any one installation they must all be of the same type. Examples of
sounders are shown in Fig. 77. Normal speech is about 5 dB.

142
 Figure 303 Typical fire alarm sounders
Bell and bell circuits
The electric bell converts the magnetic effect of an electric current into sound it therefore enables
audible warnings or signals to be transmitted as current over long distances by running of electric
conductor cables figure 78 shows a single stroke bell. For most bell circuits, the use of lower voltages is
employed which necessitates the installation of a bell transformer. Bells can be operated from manually-
operated push-buttons or automatic switching from alarm devices such as door or window devices for
burglar-alarm systems or detection devices for fire outbreaks.
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 304 Single stroke bell/trembler bell

143
Electrical machines circuits

Direct on Line (DOL)

A DOL starter connects the three main lines (L1, L2 and L3) directly to the motor terminals when the
start button is pressed. The drawing of a DOL starter is generally done in two separate stages. These are
called the Power Circuit and the Control Circuit. Power Circuit the power circuit shows all the
components or parts of components required to handle the load current of the motor. Remember that the
motor in question may be a small 1.5 kW (2 HP) or a large 225 kW (300 HP). As the motor power rating
increases so too must the current rating of the contactor, overload relay and supply cables. The control
circuit shows all the components or parts of components required to control the motor. These
components are basically the same regardless of the power rating of the motor in question. Note that
when wiring circuits, the supply should be fed in on the low number terminal and out on the high
number terminal. The figure 79 shows a complete schematic diagram of Direct On line (DOL) starter

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

Figure 305 Direct On Line starter

144
Star Delta Starter

Figure 306 Schematic diagram for star delta starter

Compared to the other types of starters, the star delta starter is used on a large scale. As the name suggests,
the three windings are connected in a star connection in the star delta starters. A certain time is set by the
om

timer or any other controller circuit. After this time is passed, the windings are then connected in the delta
.c
et
tv

connection. The phase voltage in the star connection is reduced to 58%, and the total current drawn is 58%
sy
ea

of normal current. This results in a reduced torque. The figure 75 shows a schematic diagram for star delta
starter. The Advantages of Using Star Delta Motor Starters:
• They are ideal for long acceleration times.
• They have a lower input surge current when compared to other starters.
• They have a simpler construction as compared to other starters

6.2.4.4 Learning Activities

Industrial attachment/workshop practice/project
Practical activities knowledge Special instructions

5. Apply appropriate • Single phase systems

installation procedures and • Wiring systems and
accessories
technical standards while
• Electrical installations final
carrying out electrical circuits
installations

145
 6. Implement electrical 7. Single phase systems
installations as per the 8. Wiring systems and
accessories
working drawing
Electrical installations final
circuits

9. Adhere to IEE regulations IEE regulations

during installation
10. Adhere to safety procedures Electrical safety procedures
for each activity
11. Install cables, conductors, Cables, conduits, enclosures and
conduits, enclosures and support systems

support systems to
specifications.
12. Label installation for Cable labelling for identification
identification
om

6.2.4.5 Self-Assessment
.c
et
tv

1. What are the precautions necessary to observe when installing sheathed wiring systems
sy
ea

2. (a). What two advantages do plastic conduit have over metallic conduit.
(b). what two advantages do metallic conduit have over non- metallic conduit.
3. Mechanical protection of cables in an electrical installation defines the type of wiring system. What
factors are to be considered when determining the choice of a wiring system?
4. What are the types of PVC conduits?
5. Conduit installation must meet the IEE regulation; what any two IEE regulation do you think must be
observed when installing steel conduits.

146
6.2.4.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Recommended Resources

Tools and equipment Materials and supplies

➢ Cable Strippers
• Stationery
➢ Pliers
• Cables
➢ Screw drivers
• Light fittings
➢ Hammers
• Accessories
➢ Chisels
• Conduits and fittings
➢ Allen keys
• Cable trays
➢ Electrician knives
• Cable ducts
➢ Crimping tools
➢ Bending springs • Trunkings

➢ Bending machine • Computers

➢ Steel tapes • Drawing instruments

➢ Draw wires • Screws

om

➢ Hack saws
.c

➢ Drilling tools
et
tv
sy

➢ Stock and die

ea

➢ Bench vice
➢ Machine vice
➢ PPE – hand gloves, dust coats, dust
masks, helmets, ear muffs, industrial
boots
Reference materials

• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards

6.2.4.7 References
Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.

147
(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.

(n.d.). County by-laws.

Drawing instruments and their uses. (2017). SILO inc.

Farook, S. (2020, November 15th).

file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf. Retrieved from
https://www.academia.edu/28179408/Lecture_2_Line_Types:
file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf

https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/. (2020, November 19). Retrieved from

https://gocodes.com: https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/

https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png

https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad. (2020, November 17).

Retrieved from www.designtechcadacademy.com:
https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad

https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-
om

ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-
.c
et

the-reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from

tv
sy

https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
ea

labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412

(n.d.). IEE regulations 17th Edition.

J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.

Linsley, T. (2008). Basic Electrical Installation Work. Elsevier Ltd.

(2016). Mines Act.

(n.d.). National Construction Authority (NCA) regulations.

(n.d.). National Enviromental Management Authority(NEMA) regulations.

(2007). Occupation Safety and Health Act.

safety, C. c. (2020, November 23). https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html.

Retrieved from https://www.ccohs.ca:
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html

sheahan, K. (2020, November 23). https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-general-shop-safety-

rules.html. Retrieved from https://careertrend.com: https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-
general-shop-safety-rules.html
148
standard, 2. C. (2020, November 15th ). https://www.cad-standard.com/technical-drawing-
basics/drawing-paper-sizes. Retrieved from www.cad-standard.com: https://www.cad-
standard.com/technical-drawing-basics/drawing-paper-sizes

UNICEF. (1992). 162 p. Retrieved from http://www.nzdl.org/gsdlmod?e=d-00000-00---off-0cdl--00-0---

-0-10-0---0---0direct-10---4-------0-1l--11-en-50---20-help---00-0-1-00-0--4----0-0-11-10-0utfZz-
8-00&cl=CL1.68&d=HASH01221928a8ae1bc2f8253cba.8&gt=1

Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.

(2007). Work Injury Benefits Act.

www.femalifesafety.org. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.femalifesafety.org/types-of-

extinguishers.html

www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic. (2020, November 16th). Retrieved

from www.helenhudspith.com: www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic

6.2.4.8 Model answers to self-assessment

om

1. What are the precautions necessary to observe when installing sheathed wiring systems
.c
et

i. When concealed in walls, they should further be protected by a channel or tube

tv
sy

ii. When run under floors, they should be at a depth sufficient to prevent damage from floor
ea

fixings
iii. At termination, sheath should enter the terminal housing enclosure
2. (a). What two advantages do plastic conduit have over metallic conduit.
i. cheap
ii. non corrosive
iii. easy to install
iv. provides total insulation to cables
(b). what two advantages do metallic conduit have over non- metallic conduit.
i. Provides better protection against mechanical damage.
ii. Provides earth return path
iii. Durability if properly installed
iv. Low fire risk
v. Can be easily extended
3. Mechanical protection of cables in an electrical installation defines the type of wiring system. What
factors are to be considered when determining the choice of a wiring system?

149
 i. Type of the building
ii. Durability
iii. Cost
iv. Flexibility
v. Time taken
4. What are the types of PVC conduits?
i. Heavy gauge conduit
ii. Light gauge conduit
5. Conduit installation must meet the IEE regulation; what any two IEE regulation do you think must be
observed when installing steel conduits.
i. Steel conduits must always be earthed.
ii. Conduits must always be installed before drawing in the cables.
iii. Radius of the bend should not exceed 2½ from the diameter of the conduit.
iv. Space factor of cable in conduit should not exceed 40% or 0.04.
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

150
 6.2.5 Learning Outcome 5 Facilitate other service providers

6.2.5.1 Introduction to the learning outcome

To facilitate other service providers, it is important to identify other service providers on site, apply
communication protocols and procedures, communicate to other providers during and after the
installation as necessary, obtain and agree upon the requirements of other service providers and make
provision for other services according to the design.
6.2.5.2 Performance Standard
6.2.5.2.1 Identify other service providers on site.
6.2.5.2.2 Apply communication protocols and procedures.
6.2.5.2.3 Communicate to other providers during and after the installation as necessary.
6.2.5.2.4 Obtain and agree upon the requirements of other service providers
6.2.5.2.5 Make provision for other services according to the design.

6.2.5.3 Information Sheet

Communication
om

When you work in the construction industry you are a member of a team involving many different job
.c

roles on site. For a project to run smoothly, there must be effective communication so that everybody does
et
tv
sy

what is required, at the right time, in the right way and with the right materials.
ea

Communications is about transferring information from one person to another both quickly and accurately.
We do this by talking to other people, looking at drawings and plans and discussing these with colleagues
from the same company and with other professionals who have an interest in the same project. The
technical information used within our industry comes from many sources. The IEE Regulations is the
‘electrician’s bible’ and forms the basis of all our electrical design calculations and installation methods.
British Standards, European Harmonized Standards and Codes of Practice provide detailed information
for every sector of the electrotechnical industry, influencing all design and build considerations. The
communication can generally be between:
a) Employers and supervisors
Many building companies are quite big and you may never actually see or meet the main boss of the
company. Communication passes down through the organization to the tradespeople via managers and
supervisors.
Larger construction sites may have a project manager who is responsible for the overall running of the
project. There will also be a building supervisor or foreperson who liaises with the project manager and
directs the daily activities. Alternatively, you may work for a contractor and most of the information and
instructions you are given will come directly from your boss.
151
 b) Contractors
Many of the tradespeople you interact with will be contractors; that is, they run their own business and
provide their services to the building company. Contractors have to communicate effectively with each
other, as they are often working in the same area at the same time. For example, the plumber and the
electrician may both be working on the same section of the site, and the bricklayer may need one or both
of them to have finished their part of the job before s/he starts. If you’re working for or with a contractor,
you’ll need to be able to share information and negotiate coordination and scheduling issues throughout a
construction project.
c) Co-workers
Most of your workplace communication is likely to be with members of your team and other co-workers.
Together, you’ll be organizing and completing tasks, giving and receiving instructions, helping each other
and solving problems.
d) Others
On construction projects there are lots of other people involved at various stages. You may need to
communicate with the following people as part of your work responsibilities:
•
om

designers and architects

.c

•
et

safety officers
tv
sy

• union representatives
ea

• clients
• delivery drivers
• Suppliers
• office staff
Types of communication
Communication can be grouped into four main types – verbal, non-verbal, written and Visual
a) Verbal communication
Verbal communication is probably the most used form of communication. It relies on sharing spoken
words that the communicator and the receiver both understand.

b) Non-verbal communication
Non-verbal communication is when you communicate with others without using words.
Body language – gestures, facial expressions, posture – can tell other people a lot about what you really
mean that might not be communicated by the actual words you use.

152
Have a look at the body language of the three people below. Which one do you think really does feel
happy? What do the other two really think?
Non-verbal communication is often sent unintentionally; that is, you don’t deliberately send it as part of
your message, but it is still received by the other person. However, sometimes we deliberately use non-
verbal communication to create or reinforce a particular meaning in our messages. For example, if you
ask, ‘What are you doing?’ in an angry tone of voice, you’re probably expressing displeasure rather than
curiosity.
c) Written communication
Written communication means using the written word to send information. This could be on paper, a
screen, a billboard or even a T-shirt.
There are many different types of written communication used regularly in the construction industry and
some examples are listed in the following table. Each type is more suited to some situations, audiences or
purposes than others.
d) Visual communication
Visual communication covers all types of communication we see rather than read or hear. It is usually
pictorial, although there could be a few words present as well, such as on a sign or poster. Workers in the
construction industry use a lot of visual communication, for example, plans and diagrams, safety signs,
om
.c

warning lights and hand signals.

et
tv
sy

e) Formal and informal communication

ea

The way we speak to different people depends on who they are, how well we know them and the situation
we are in. We don’t use the same words and tone of voice to speak to a teacher or boss as we do when
we’re chatting to our mates.
We are likely to speak quite formally to people in authority like teachers or police officers but we can be
far more relaxed and spontaneous with family and friends. In the workplace we usually use formal
communication with our employers and supervisors, and informal communication with our workmates.
Formal and informal communication can also relate to the way we write. An email to a workmate would
probably be quite casual but a job application would definitely be written more formally
Sources of technical information
Equipment and accessories available to use in a specific situation can often be found in the very
comprehensive manufacturer’s catalogues and the catalogues of the major wholesalers that service the
electrotechnical industries.
All of this technical information may be distributed and retrieved by using:
• conventional drawings and diagrams which we will look at in more detail below

153
 • sketch drawing to illustrate an idea or the shape of say a bracket to hold a piece of
electrical equipment
• the Internet can be used to download British Standards and Codes of Practice
• The Internet can also be used to download health and safety information from the health
and safety.
• CDs, DVDs, USB memory sticks and email can be used to communicate and store
information electronically
• The facsimile (Fax) machine can be used to communicate with other busy professionals,
information say about a project you are working on together.
If you are working at your company office with access to online computers, then technical information is
only a fingertip or mouse click away. However, a construction site is a hostile environment for a laptop
and so a hard copy of any data is preferable on site.
6.2.5.4 Learning Activities
Practical activities Knowledge

3. Identify other service providers on site. Other service providers in the construction site.

4. Apply communication protocols and Communication

om

procedures.
.c
et
tv

5. Communicate to other providers during and Communication

sy
ea

after the installation as necessary

6. Obtain and agree upon the requirements of communication

other service providers

7. Make provision for other services according Design

to the design.

6.2.5.5 Self-Assessment
1. What are the five ways in which you can make your communication efforts as effective as
possible?
2. Communication can be grouped into four main types. What are these groups?
3. What method would you use to let the office know that the materials you were expecting have
not yet arrived?
4. In what ways can technical information be retrieved?
5. What are the advantages of written communication?

154
6.2.5.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Recommended Resources

Tools and equipment Materials and supplies

➢ Cable Strippers
• Stationery
➢ Pliers
• Cables
➢ Screw drivers
• Light fittings
➢ Hammers
• Accessories
➢ Chisels
• Conduits and fittings
➢ Allen keys
• Cable trays
➢ Electrician knives
• Cable ducts
➢ Crimping tools
➢ Bending springs • Trunkings

➢ Bending machine • Computers

➢ Steel tapes • Drawing instruments

➢ Draw wires • Screws

➢ Hack saws
om

➢ Drilling tools
.c
et

➢ Stock and die

tv
sy

➢ Bench vice
ea

➢ Machine vice
➢ PPE – hand gloves, dust coats, dust
masks, helmets, ear muffs, industrial
boots
Reference materials

• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards

155
6.2.5.7 References

Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.

(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.

(n.d.). County by-laws.

Drawing instruments and their uses. (2017). SILO inc.

Farook, S. (2020, November 15th).

file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf. Retrieved from
https://www.academia.edu/28179408/Lecture_2_Line_Types:
file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf

https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/. (2020, November 19). Retrieved from

https://gocodes.com: https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/

https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png
om

https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad. (2020, November 17).

.c
et

Retrieved from www.designtechcadacademy.com:

tv
sy

https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad
ea

https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-
ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-
the-reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412

(n.d.). IEE regulations 17th Edition.

J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.

Linsley, T. (2008). Basic Electrical Installation Work. Elsevier Ltd.

(2016). Mines Act.

(n.d.). National Construction Authority (NCA) regulations.

(n.d.). National Enviromental Management Authority(NEMA) regulations.

(2007). Occupation Safety and Health Act.

156
safety, C. c. (2020, November 23). https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html.
Retrieved from https://www.ccohs.ca:
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html

sheahan, K. (2020, November 23). https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-general-shop-safety-

rules.html. Retrieved from https://careertrend.com: https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-
general-shop-safety-rules.html

standard, 2. C. (2020, November 15th ). https://www.cad-standard.com/technical-drawing-

basics/drawing-paper-sizes. Retrieved from www.cad-standard.com: https://www.cad-
standard.com/technical-drawing-basics/drawing-paper-sizes

UNICEF. (1992). 162 p. Retrieved from http://www.nzdl.org/gsdlmod?e=d-00000-00---off-0cdl--00-0---

-0-10-0---0---0direct-10---4-------0-1l--11-en-50---20-help---00-0-1-00-0--4----0-0-11-10-0utfZz-
8-00&cl=CL1.68&d=HASH01221928a8ae1bc2f8253cba.8&gt=1

Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.

(2007). Work Injury Benefits Act.

www.femalifesafety.org. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.femalifesafety.org/types-of-

extinguishers.html
om

www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic. (2020, November 16th). Retrieved

.c
et

from www.helenhudspith.com: www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic

tv
sy
ea

6.2.5.8 Model answers to self-assessment

1. What are the five ways in which you can make your communication efforts as effective as possible?

• Being a keen listener: Effective communication depends on listening skills since it would
allow both parties to understand each other.
• Paying attention to non-verbal communication: Communication is often accompanied by
non-verbal cues. Every party in a conversation has to identify and understand the non-
verbal cues and how to use them to ensure that the information delivered is accurate.
• Making a keen choice of language use: The choice of words hugely impacts the information
being delivered during communication and the overall perception of the recipient on the
information.
• Efficiently expressing oneself: During a communication, an individual has to share their
thoughts and feelings on the topic at hand as honestly as possible, while still acknowledging
other people's opinions.

157
 • Control of emotions: During a conversation, one must prevent emotions from running the
conversation

2. Communication can be grouped into four main types. What are these groups?

• Verbal
• non-verbal
• written
• Visual
3. What method would you use to let the office know that the materials you were expecting have not
yet arrived?
• Email
• Telephone call
4. In what ways can technical information be retrieved?
• conventional drawings and diagrams which we will look at in more detail below
• sketch drawing to illustrate an idea or the shape of say a bracket to hold a piece of
electrical equipment
om

•
.c

the Internet can be used to download British Standards and Codes of Practice
et
tv

•
sy

The Internet can also be used to download health and safety information from the
ea

health and safety.

• CDs, DVDs, USB memory sticks and email can be used to communicate and store
information electronically
• The facsimile (Fax) machine can be used to communicate with other busy
professionals, information say about a project you are working on together.
5. What are the advantages of written communication?
• It is suitable for long distance communication and repetitive standing orders.
• It creates permanent record of evidence.
• It gives the receiver sufficient time to think, act and react.
• It can be used as legal document.
• It can be sent to many persons at a time

158
6.2.6 Learning Outcome 6
6.2.6.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
To maintain housekeeping, prepare safety checklist for electrical equipment and machines, carry out
regular follow up according to the prepared checklist, and follow up workplace procedures to deal
with any accidents and damage of equipment occurring during the cleaning process and record and
report activities as per the established procedures.
6.2.6.2 Performance Standard
6.2.6.2.1 Prepare safety checklist for electrical equipment and machines
6.2.6.2.2 Carry out regular follow up according to the prepared checklist
6.2.6.2.3 Follow up workplace procedures to deal with any accidents and damage of equipment
occurring during the cleaning process
6.2.6.2.4 Record and report activities as per the established procedures.
6.2.6.3 Information Sheet
Housekeeping
Electrical workshops must be kept clean and dry. If spills or leaks occur, they must be cleaned up
promptly to avoid the risk of electrocution. Additionally, walking and working surfaces should be as free
from debris as possible to minimize slips, trips and falls. Slipping, tripping and falling into electrical
om

equipment in a workshop can cause severe injuries. The elements of an effective housekeeping program
.c
et
tv

are:
sy
ea

a) Maintenance
The maintenance of buildings and equipment may be the most important element of good housekeeping.
Maintenance involves keeping buildings, equipment and machinery in safe, efficient working order and
in good repair. It includes maintaining sanitary facilities and regularly painting and cleaning walls.
Broken windows, damaged doors, defective plumbing and broken floor surfaces can make a workplace
look neglected; these conditions can cause incidents and affect work practices. So it is important to
replace or fix broken or damaged items as quickly as possible. A good maintenance program provides
for the inspection, maintenance, upkeep and repair of tools, equipment, machines and processes.
b) Dust and dirt removal
Enclosures and exhaust ventilation systems may fail to collect dust, dirt and chips adequately. Vacuum
cleaners are suitable for removing light dust and dirt that is not otherwise hazardous. Industrial models
have special fittings for cleaning walls, ceilings, ledges, machinery, and other hard-to-reach places
where dust and dirt may accumulate.

159
Special-purpose vacuums are useful for removing hazardous products. For example, vacuum cleaners
fitted with HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters may be used to capture fine particles of asbestos
or fibreglass.
Dampening (wetting) floors or using sweeping compounds before sweeping reduces the amount of
airborne dust. The dust and grime that collect in places like shelves, piping, conduits, light fixtures,
reflectors, windows, cupboards and lockers may require manual cleaning.
Compressed air should not be used for removing dust, dirt or chips from equipment or work surfaces.
c) Employee facilities
Employee facilities need to be adequate, clean and well maintained. Lockers may be necessary for
storing employees' personal belongings. Washroom facilities require cleaning once or more each shift.
They also need to have a good supply of soap, towels plus disinfectants, if needed.
If workers are using hazardous products, employee facilities should provide special precautions as
needed such as showers, washing facilities and change rooms. Some facilities may require two locker
rooms with showers between. Using such double locker rooms allows workers to shower off workplace
contaminants and reduces the chance of contaminating their "street clothes" by keeping their work
clothes separated from the clothing that they wear home.
Smoking, eating or drinking in the work area should be prohibited where hazardous products are
om
.c

handled. The eating area should be separate from the work area and should be cleaned properly each
et
tv
sy

shift.
ea

d) Surfaces
Floors: Poor floor conditions are a leading cause of incidents so cleaning up spilled oil and other liquids
at once is important. Allowing chips, shavings and dust to accumulate can also cause incidents. Trapping
chips, shavings and dust before they reach the floor or cleaning them up regularly can prevent their
accumulation. Areas that cannot be cleaned continuously, such as entrance ways, should have anti-slip
flooring. Keeping floors in good order also means replacing any worn, ripped, or damaged flooring that
poses a tripping hazard.
Walls: Light-coloured walls reflect light while dirty or dark-coloured walls absorb light. Contrasting
colours warn of physical hazards and mark obstructions such as pillars. Paint can highlight railings,
guards and other safety equipment, but should never be used as a substitute for guarding. The program
should outline the regulations and standards for colours.
e) Maintain Light Fixtures
Dirty light fixtures reduce essential light levels. Clean light fixtures can improve lighting efficiency
significantly.

160
 f) Aisles and Stairways
Aisles should be wide enough to accommodate people and vehicles comfortably and safely. Aisle space
allows for the movement of people, products and materials. Warning signs and mirrors can improve
sight-lines in blind corners. Arranging aisles properly encourages people to use them so that they do not
take shortcuts through hazardous areas.
Keeping aisles and stairways clear is important. They should not be used for temporary "overflow" or
"bottleneck" storage. Stairways and aisles also require adequate lighting.
g) Spill Control
The best way to control spills is to stop them before they happen. Regularly cleaning and maintaining
machines and equipment is one way. Another is to use drip pans and guards where possible spills might
occur. When spills do occur, it is important to clean them up immediately. Absorbent materials are
useful for wiping up greasy, oily or other liquid spills. Used absorbents must be disposed of properly and
safely.
h) Tools and Equipment
Tool housekeeping is very important, whether in the tool room, on the rack, in the yard, or on the bench.
Tools require suitable fixtures with marked locations to provide an orderly arrangement. Returning tools
promptly after use reduces the chance of it being misplaced or lost. Workers should regularly inspect,
om
.c

clean and repair all tools and take any damaged or worn tools out of service.
et
tv
sy

i) Waste Disposal
ea

The regular collection, grading and sorting of scrap contribute to good housekeeping practices. It also
makes it possible to separate materials that can be recycled from those going to waste disposal facilities.
Allowing material to build up on the floor wastes time and energy since additional time is required for
cleaning it up. Placing scrap containers near where the waste is produced encourages orderly waste
disposal and makes collection easier. All waste receptacles should be clearly labelled (e.g., recyclable
glass, plastic, scrap metal, etc.).
j) Storage
Good organization of stored materials is essential for overcoming material storage problems whether on
a temporary or permanent basis. There will also be fewer strain injuries if the amount of handling is
reduced, especially if less manual material handling is required. The location of the stockpiles should not
interfere with work but they should still be readily available when required. Stored materials should
allow at least one metre (or about three feet) of clear space under sprinkler heads.
Stacking cartons and drums on a firm foundation and cross tying them, where necessary, reduces the
chance of their movement. Stored materials should not obstruct aisles, stairs, exits, fire equipment,
emergency eyewash fountains, emergency showers, or first aid stations. All storage areas should be
clearly marked.
161
Flammable, combustible, toxic and other hazardous materials should be stored in approved containers in
designated areas that are appropriate for the different hazards that they pose. Storage of materials should
meet all requirements specified in the fire codes and the regulations of environmental and occupational
health and safety agencies in your jurisdiction.
Use the following checklist as a general workplace guide.
Floors and Other Areas
• Are floors clean and clear of waste?
• Are signs posted to warn of wet floors?
• Are floors in good condition?
• Are there holes, worn or loose planks or carpet sticking up?
• Is anti-slip flooring used where spills, moisture or grease are likely?
• Are there protruding objects such as nails, sharp corners, open cabinet drawers, trailing electrical
wires?
• Are personal items, such as clothing and lunch boxes, in assigned lockers or storage areas?
• Is the work area congested?
• Are floors well-drained?
om

Aisles and Stairways

.c
et

• Are aisles unobstructed and clearly marked?

tv
sy

•
ea

Are mirrors installed at blind corners?

• Are aisles wide enough to accommodate workers and equipment comfortably?
• Are safe loading practices used with hand and power trucks, skids, or pallets?
• Is the workplace lighting adequate? Are stairs well lit?
• Are stairs covered with an anti-slip tread? Are faulty stair treads repaired?
Spill Control
• Are all spills wiped up quickly?
• Are procedures followed as indicated on the material safety data sheet?
• Are spill absorbents used for greasy, oily, flammable or toxic materials?
• Are used rags and absorbents disposed of promptly and safely?
• Is a spill area surrounded by a barrier to prevent a spill from spreading?
Equipment and Machinery Maintenance
• Is equipment in good working order, with all necessary guards or safety features operational or in
place?
• Is equipment damaged or outdated?
• Are tools and machinery inspected regularly for wear or leaks?
162
 • Is equipment repaired promptly?
• Are drip pans or absorbent materials used if leaks cannot be stopped at the source?
• Is a machine that splashes oil fitted with a screen or splash guard?
• Are machines and tools cleaned regularly?
Waste Disposal
• Are there adequate number of containers?
• Are there separate and approved containers for toxic and flammable waste?
• Are waste containers located where the waste is produced?
• Are waste containers emptied regularly?
• Are toxic and flammable waste chemicals handled properly?
Storage
• Are storage areas safe and accessible?
• Is material stacked securely, blocked or interlocked if possible?
• Are materials stored in areas that do not obstruct stairs, fire escapes, exits or firefighting
equipment?
• Are materials stored in areas that do not interfere with workers or the flow of materials?
om

• Are bins or racks provided where material cannot be piled?

.c
et
tv

• Are all storage areas clearly marked?

sy
ea

• Do workers understand material storage and handling procedures?

Fire Prevention
• Are combustible and flammable materials present only in the quantities needed for the job at
hand?
• Are combustible and flammable materials kept in safety cans during use?
• Are hazardous materials stored in approved containers and away from ignition sources?
• Are sprinkler heads clear of stored material?
• Are fire extinguishers inspected and located along commonly travelled routes, and close to
possible ignition sources?
Are oily or greasy rags placed in metal containers and disposed of regularly?
6.2.6.4 Learning Activities
Industrial attachment/workshop Practice

Practical activities knowledge Special instruction

163
 5. Prepare safety checklist for Safety and electrical tools,
electrical equipment and materials and equipment

machines
6. Carry out regular follow up
according to the prepared
checklist
7. Follow-up workplace
procedures to deal with any
accidents and damage of
equipment occurring during
the cleaning process
8. Record and report activities
as per the established
procedures.

6.2.6.5 Self-Assessment
om

1. What does the team housekeeping mean?

.c

2. What are some benefits of good housekeeping practices?

et
tv

3. What are the elements of an effective housekeeping program?

sy
ea

4. What would you include in your checklist to ensure waste are disposed appropriately?
6.2.6.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Material
Recommended Resources

Tools and equipment Materials and supplies

➢ Cable Strippers
• Stationery
➢ Pliers
• Cables
➢ Screw drivers
• Light fittings
➢ Hammers
• Accessories
➢ Chisels
• Conduits and fittings
➢ Allen keys
• Cable trays
➢ Electrician knives
• Cable ducts
➢ Crimping tools
➢ Bending springs • Trunkings

➢ Bending machine • Computers

➢ Steel tapes • Drawing instruments

164
 ➢ Draw wires • Screws
➢ Hack saws
➢ Drilling tools
➢ Stock and die
➢ Bench vice
➢ Machine vice
➢ PPE – hand gloves, dust coats, dust
masks, helmets, ear muffs, industrial
boots
Reference materials

• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards
om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

6.2.6.7 References
Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.

(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.

(n.d.). County by-laws.

Drawing instruments and their uses. (2017). SILO inc.

Farook, S. (2020, November 15th).

file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf. Retrieved from
https://www.academia.edu/28179408/Lecture_2_Line_Types:
file:///C:/Users/This/AppData/Local/Temp/Lecture_2_Line_Types.pdf

https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/. (2020, November 19). Retrieved from

https://gocodes.com: https://gocodes.com/how-to-keep-track-of-tools-and-equipment/

https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png

165
https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad. (2020, November 17).
Retrieved from www.designtechcadacademy.com:
https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad

https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-
ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-
the-reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412

(n.d.). IEE regulations 17th Edition.

J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.

Linsley, T. (2008). Basic Electrical Installation Work. Elsevier Ltd.

(2016). Mines Act.

(n.d.). National Construction Authority (NCA) regulations.

(n.d.). National Enviromental Management Authority(NEMA) regulations.

(2007). Occupation Safety and Health Act.

om

safety, C. c. (2020, November 23). https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html.

.c
et

Retrieved from https://www.ccohs.ca:

tv
sy

https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html
ea

sheahan, K. (2020, November 23). https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-general-shop-safety-

rules.html. Retrieved from https://careertrend.com: https://careertrend.com/way-5194275-
general-shop-safety-rules.html

standard, 2. C. (2020, November 15th ). https://www.cad-standard.com/technical-drawing-

basics/drawing-paper-sizes. Retrieved from www.cad-standard.com: https://www.cad-
standard.com/technical-drawing-basics/drawing-paper-sizes

UNICEF. (1992). 162 p. Retrieved from http://www.nzdl.org/gsdlmod?e=d-00000-00---off-0cdl--00-0---

-0-10-0---0---0direct-10---4-------0-1l--11-en-50---20-help---00-0-1-00-0--4----0-0-11-10-0utfZz-
8-00&cl=CL1.68&d=HASH01221928a8ae1bc2f8253cba.8&gt=1

Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.

(2007). Work Injury Benefits Act.

www.femalifesafety.org. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.femalifesafety.org/types-of-

extinguishers.html

www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic. (2020, November 16th). Retrieved

from www.helenhudspith.com: www.helenhudspith.com/resources/graphics/john_h/orthographic
166
6.2.6.8 Model answers to self-assessment
1. What does the team housekeeping mean?
Housekeeping is not just cleanliness. It includes keeping work areas neat and orderly, maintaining
halls and floors free of slip and trip hazards, and removing of waste materials (e.g., paper, cardboard)
and other fire hazards from work areas. Good housekeeping is also a basic part of incident and fire
prevention.
2. What are some benefits of good housekeeping practices?

• reduced handling to ease the flow of materials

• fewer tripping and slipping incidents in clutter-free and spill-free work areas
• decreased fire hazards
• lower worker exposures to hazardous products (e.g. dusts, vapours)
• better control of tools and materials, including inventory and supplies
• more efficient equipment cleanup and maintenance
om

• better hygienic conditions leading to improved health

.c

• more effective use of space

et
tv

• reduced property damage by improving preventive maintenance

sy

•
ea

less janitorial work

• improved morale
• improved productivity (tools and materials will be easy to find)

3. What are the elements of an effective housekeeping program?

• Dust and dirt removal
• Maintenance
• Surfaces
• Light fixtures
• Aisles or stairways
• Spill control
• Tools and equipment
• Waste disposal storage
4. What would you include in your checklist to ensure waste are disposed appropriately?
• Availability of adequate number of containers
• separate and approved containers for toxic and flammable waste
• waste containers location
167
• emptying of the waste containers
• proper handling of toxic and flammable waste chemicals

om
.c
et
tv
sy
ea

168