News & Views
8th March 2017
Succession lighting - placing buildings at risk
NECA has been advised by our members of a concerning practice in the residential and small commercial sector, whereby some owners and builders trying to save a few dollars are using the succession lighting method to install recessed lights (downlights).
The succession lighting method involves an electrical contractor being engaged to install a switched socket outlet (commonly referred to as a 413), in the centre of a ceiling space. Then a unlicensed person (who could be the owner or the builder’s employee), fits the downlights and connects them via an extension lead and power boards, from the 413 under the misapprehension that they are saving on electrical installation costs.
This practise is occurring due to the Wiring Rules loop-hole which states that flexible cords used to connect luminaires are not regarded as fixed wiring where they do not exceed 2.5 metres.
To stamp out this concerning practise, NECA has suggested (via its EL1 Committee Representative) that an amendment be made to the Wiring Rules prohibiting the practise of succession lighting, through the insertion of further restrictions on the use of flexible cords as fixed wiring.
If confronted with this problem, members are advised to discuss the succession lighting issue with their builder, point out the inherent dangers of this practise, and advise that it is likely to be contrary to the 'soon to be released' AS/NZ 3000 standard.
For further information, contact NECAs Technical Advisor, Leon Dickson on 0488 774 669 or email leon.dickson@neca.asn.au.
