Electrical systems: safety rules

CEI 64-8 standard

This standard establishes the principles for the installation of low voltage electrical systems (not exceeding 1000 V in alternating current and 1500 V in direct current). Compliance with this standard is mandatory in order to obtain a building permit and to proceed with the installation of any electrical system in a home. This standard guarantees you compliance with the safety and functionality criteria and allows you to better manage the current.

The safety devices of your home

Your home must include the following safety devices:

- A differential magnetothermic switch, commonly called life-saving, which cuts off the power supply in case of danger. If your master switch doesn't already have one, you definitely need to install it!

- A ground plant which allows the superfluous current to be discharged to earth.

- From the protections at the level of cables, switches… Damaged systems, bare cables and accessible switches are to be banned. Electric cables whose insulating coating (fabric, rubber or plastic) is damaged must be replaced immediately, and the same applies to switches and electrical sockets.

The right reflexes

- Before proceeding with any electrical installation, turn off the power, even if you only need to change a light bulb.

- If you make an electrical connection, make sure that the insulation is not defective, to avoid the risk of short circuits.

- The circuits must be protected by a circuit breaker suitable for the power of the circuit itself.

- Repair damaged electrical equipment immediately.

- Suitable clothing: wear shoes with rubber or rubber soles, which are impermeable to water and have antistatic properties.

- The tools: use tools with insulated handles, specific for electricians such as, for example, an insulated blade screwdriver, electronic pliers to uncover the wires ...

Not to do

- Never proceed with an electrical installation with the wet hands or feet in water.

- Never clean an appliance or never replace one of its components without first have unplugged.

- Avoid using multiple sockets, which overload the circuits

- Never repair an extension cable damaged: replace it.

Electrical appliances in the bathroom

Safety regulations require additional protective systems in all high humidity environments. In the bathroom, the space surrounding the bathtub or shower is divided into four safety zones. The closer these areas are to the bathtub or shower, the more stringent the safety regulations!

Zone 0: the space inside the bathtub or shower.

The installation of any electrical device, except special ones, is prohibited.

Zone 1: the space above the bath or shower.

Very low voltage lighting devices or SELV switches are tolerated, but they must always have protection against jets of water.

Zone 2: the space surrounding the bathtub or shower within a radius of 60 cm.

Class II electrical devices and electric shaver sockets are allowed due to their low intensity.

Zone 3: the space surrounding zone 2 within a 3m radius.

All electrical appliances permitted in zones 0, 1 and 2 can be used, and class I devices are also permitted.

If you resort to a professional

- Make more than one quote. Having a quote from at least three different professionals will give you an idea of ​​the prices charged on the market. Electricians are also obliged to provide you with a quote.

- Request an invoice: in the event of a dispute or abuse, the invoice will allow you to certify the services performed

- Choose a well-known professional. Do not forget to check the references of your interlocutor: when it comes to electrical systems, there must be no room for improvisation!