🔌 Wiring standards

Mains electricity

All work involving 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.
3 is the phase identifier where applicable.

MDB always refers to the building’s main distribution board.

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 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 currently default to using Cat6 UTP cabling. Where justified by the environment (for example, in locations more likely to suffer from interference), shielded cable may be more appropriate.

In line with our “do it right” and “for the future” principles, all wiring runs should be made in trays, trunking or conduit wherever practical. Cables should be securely bundled using mesh sleeves, velcro ties¹ or lacing where appropriate, and must not be left unsupported. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations with regard to minimum bend radius.

Physical inter-building connections must not be made using copper cables; fibre connections must be used instead.

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. Where available, sockets should include dust shutters. Sockets must be clearly labelled at both ends.

Plugs

We prefer the use of 8P8C (sometimes called RJ45) 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. ↩