Rick Hughes wrote:
I have fitted out all wiring points in a complete new build using dry lining
boxes, (245 of them in total) now coming to 2nd fix and a question arises -
how do I deal with the earths?


The boxes are plastic and they act as an insulator so all the earth conductors
go directly to the face plate earth terminals.



For all the socket outlets no problem as the sockets have earth connection
screws, as do grid switches etc.

However for standard switch plates these have no earth connection
screw .... Now there are a couple of things I could do ..


You would sleeve the earth connecting centre as though you were going to connect
it then place it in a screw terminal strip and leave it tucked inside the box.
Don't cut it away as you may need it later on if you fit something else in place
of the old switch.




i) simply ignore the earths and cut them off, face plates are insulated as
are boxes so no need to earth.


No. Don't do that.


ii) where there is only one earth wire treat as for i) . where more than
one earth wire, individually sleeves in grn/yellow, twist the ends together
and connect them all in a single insulated choccy block .. Still has no
effect on insulated face plate and box, but at least ensures all earths are
linked.


No. Don't do this either.


iii) It is possible to order clip in earth terminals to fit in dry lining
box, but wholesalers don't seem to stock them . but what good does it do
when faceplate & box are insulated.


No. You can buy earth terminals which are normally meant for metal conduit
boxes, but you'll need to drill each dry lining box and fit the terminal through
and use a locking nut on the threaded tail. Lot of hassle for an already
insulated box.


Any comments form those that know.

Rick

Always make off all the earth conductors in your lighting distribution junctions
boxes. The earth conductors helps to reduce interference from sparking / arcing
of electrical switch gear, even if it is only connected at one and allowed to
float through leakage.