🔌 Wiring standards

Mains electricity

All work carrying mains electricity must follow the Church’s standards for electrical safety.

Labelling

Where labelling a socket or switch, do so in the format DB1 2L3, where:

1 is the distribution board number in the building,
2 is the circuit number on that board, and,
3 is the phase number where the board has multiple phases

For example, a socket powered from circuit 8, powered by L1 on distribution board 6, would be labelled as DB6 8L1. A three-phase supply direct from circuit 2 on the main distribution board would be MDB 2L123.

Circuit labels on outlets and switches are there to help you identify a supply, but they are not to be relied on for making sure a circuit is isolated. You must always independently confirm that a supply has been properly isolated (and, if necessary, locked out) before commencing work.

Network

Cable

For new cable runs we default to using Cat6 UTP cabling. Where necessary (for example in locations more likely to suffer from interference) the use of shielded cable may be preferable.

In line with our “do it right” and “for the future” principles, all wiring runs should (wherever possible) be made in trays, trunking or conduit (depending on location). Cables should be securely bundled using mesh sleeves, velcro ties¹ or lacing where appropriate.

Physical inter-building connections must be made using fibre.

Termination

When terminating network cabling we use the T-568B standard.

Sockets

Our preference is for the use of punch-down sockets to terminate structured cabling wherever possible, and then patching to devices. Sockets should have shutters for dust protection, and be clearly labelled at both ends.

Plugs

We prefer the use of 8P8C connectors with a load bar. Make use of cable boots to reduce strain and snagging.

Plastic cable ties (“zip” ties) should be avoided unless absolutely necessary, since they can crush cables. ↩