RoSPA NI : Electricity and You
Flexes and Cables
Cables for Fixed Wiring
Cable has solid cores (conductors) and thus doesn't bend easily (ie. it isn't a flexible cord). It is used in places where it won't be moved once it is installed.
If you don't know which cable to use, it is very important to ask yourself, if you should be doing the job at all.
Fixed wiring is the work of qualified electricians and should be carried out by an electrician on the roll of the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC).
As a general guide only one type of flat PVC insulated and sheathed cable with earth is used for indoor use. It will need additional protection where it is exposed to mechanical stresses. If the cable is bunched with others or runs under thermal insulation, its size may need to be increased.
| Cable size | Use |
|---|---|
| 1.0 mm2 or 1.5 mm2 | Lighting circuits |
| 2.5 mm2 | Socket outlet ring mains, immersion heaters and storage radiator circuits |
| 4 mm2 | Socket outlet radial circuits |
| 6 mm2 | Cooker and shower circuits |
When you want to select a cable or flexible cord for your electric appliance follow the guidelines set out here. If in any doubt contact your Electricity Company, a member of the Electrical Contractors' Association or any other qualified electrical contractor. Professional skill and experience are essential and a list of the contractors who are on the roll of the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC) is available on the NICEIC website at: ww.niceic.org.uk
Look for the BASEC mark when buying cables and flexible cords.
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RoSPA is a registered charity: Registered Charity No: 207823 Patron: Her Majesty the Queen RoSPA Head Office: Edgbaston Park, 353 Bristol Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B5 7ST, UK |
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