Earthing light switches Ask questions and find answers to many subjects relating to electrics and electrical work

[mao1]

I want to replace my plastic light switches with chrome ones.

Can I rely on the continuity between the fixing screws and the existing metal box to earth the front face?

Otherwise I'm going to have to run a little earth wire from the cage to the front face for every light which will be a real pain in the preverbial!

Thanks in advance
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honey oil

[sparx]

No the screws are ok if one fixed lug but if you loosen say to decorate then front plate not earthed, of course the best way is to connect the circuit earth direct to switch plate then you don't need 'fly lead'
regards SPARX

[mao1]

Thanks SPARX I figured that would be the answer better safe than sorry!
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GY6 Engine

[kooks]

[quote="mao1"]Thanks SPARX I figured that would be the answer better safe than sorry![/quote]
All metal switches should always be earthed and all metal back boxes regardless. As an electrician my only defence in a court of laws as that "i followed the wiring regulations"

[sparx]

Just to put the records straight reg, # 543-02-02 & 05 say you can use the metal conduit if continuous as an earthing conductor but if you do so, then reg. 543- 02- 07 says then you must connect an earthing conductor from the earth term. in box to front plate of any metal accessory, This is NOT reqd. if the circuit protective conductor is taken direct to the earth term. of the front plate as even if accessory unscrewed the CPC will still be connected & the back nox becomes 'isolated metal work'
I quote the IEE not the NICEIC version of what they would like the regs to say!
regards SPARX