• The particular requirements of
clause 7.5 supplement, replace
or modify requirements of the other
sections of AS/NZS 3000.
• Where no particular requirements
are specified in the extra-low
voltage section, of the Wiring
Rules, it remains silent on an issue
then the extra-low voltage part or
electrical installation shall comply
with the other sections (2–7) of the
Wiring Rules.
• There are also extra requirements for:
> Voltage drop.
» Voltage drop in ELV is increased
to 10%.
> Overcurrent protection where
isolating transformers are used.
» Protection in both legs of an
isolating Transformer.
> Plugs and sockets.
» Must only accept plugs for that
particular voltage.
> Testing, different result
values apply.
> Correct type of cables.
» AC and DC.
» Underground (cat 5 should be
jelly filled).
At the end of the day what does all
this mean? In a nutshell an electrical
installation is not defined by the
supply voltage and we may very
well have ELV and LV circuits mixed
throughout the electrical installation.
All of the electrical equipment along
with the installation of the equipment
must comply with the Wiring Rules.
I have so often heard people
talk about the installation of ELV
lights that they have purchased
from the local hardware store
and openly admit that they know
nothing about the installation
requirements. Remember that clause
1.7 requires the installer to follow
“In a nutshell an electrical installation is not
defined by the supply voltage.”
the manufacturer’s instructions
along with the Wiring Rules. Any
person installing ELV shall install it
as per the ACT, Regulations, Wiring
Rules and the manufacturer’s
installation instructions.
A reminder that fixed ELV
equipment connected by a plug
and socket is covered by these
requirements examples:
Remember that ELV covers both AC
and DC Voltages;
• Fixed decorative lighting.
• Fixed (spiked) ELV garden lights.
• Fixed deck lighting.
• AC voltage 0 to 50Volts.
• DC voltage 0 to 120Volts ripple free.
So in conclusion people involved as:
• Registered Electrical Contractors.
• Electricians.
• Open Cabler’s License holders.
• Security System Installers (alarms,
access control CCTV and intercoms)
and
• DIY people shall install
electrical equipment as per
the ACT, Regulations, Wiring
Rules and the manufacturer’s
installation instructions.
For further information or
clarification contact Roy Sands
NECA Victoria on 03 9645 5533.