Consumer unit safety check-list

Publication Year

2025

Document Status

Current

Abstract

This checklist highlights key safety measures for selecting consumer units compliant with BS EN / BS EN IEC 61439-3, a standard defining single-phase distribution boards with a conditional short-circuit rating of 16 kA for household use with a maximum 100 A fuse-link. It warns against counterfeit or non-compliant products, which can pose severe risks including fire, electrocution, and legal consequences for distributors and installers. Compliance ensures safe integration of components such as MCBs and RCDs within enclosures, with performance verified through requirements such as temperature rise testing and the UK-specific 16 kA short-circuit test. Careful product selection is essential to guarantee protection and reliability in domestic electrical installations.

Document History

August 2025 edition.

Publisher Information