Socket outlet above hob

[Dave A]

What do you do when you find a socket outlet this close above a hob in an existing installation?
Is it compliant for the issue of a 9.2 (b) electrical COC?



As a guide, I always look at the full code. So some food for thought on this -

Noting the position of the stove isolator, 6.16.3.1.2 c) states that the switch-disconnector should preferably not be above the cooking appliance.

6.15.6.1 states that a socket outlet that is exposed to the weather (or to the condensation, dripping, splashing or accumulation of water) shall have a rating of at least IP44 in accordance with...

[GCE]

Hi Dave

Questions as above are good reminders as to why I don't get involved in your market.

My feeling is that if you are going to issue under 9.2(b ) then it needs to comply to fundamentals - I would struggle to pass it under 5.3.8 , pasted below.
If there are pots on the stove boiling water the socket outlet will not be readily accessible for normal operation .

I would look at blanking the socket off and run in a new socket outlet for what ever is plugged in there at the moment

5.3.8 Positioning and accessibility of electrical equipment
Electrical equipment shall be so positioned that
a) it does not impair the functioning or safety of other equipment,
b) it is readily accessible for installation, replacement, operation, testing,
inspection, maintenance and repair (see 6.6.1.9 and 6.9.4 for the main
switch). All parts of the installation shall be accessible without the need to
enter any adjoining premises (for example, in an apartment building),
NOTE Common areas (such as passages and entrance halls) are not regarded
as adjoining areas.
c) there is easy access to its location,
d) it is not likely to be physically damaged,
e) dust or moisture is not likely to accumulate on live or other parts and
cause flashover, and
f) where the distribution board is concealed by a cupboard or other
covering, the notice for live electrical apparatus referred to in annex N
shall be in a conspicuous place indicating the position of the distribution
board.

[AndyD]

I'd fail that particular socket and isolator citing the 5.3.8 reg above regarding liklihood of physical damage (due to heat) and moisture likely to accumulate, it's within 200mm of a red hot hob element and probably less than 100mm from the top of an average sized boiling pot and any trailing cables plugged into that socket would hang even closer