5.4.6 - Unearthed metalwork

If exposed conductive parts are isolated, or shrouded in non-conducting material, or are small so that the area of contact with a human body is limited, it is permissible not to earth them. Examples are overhead line metalwork which is out of reach, steel reinforcing rods within concrete lighting columns, cable clips, nameplates, fixing screws and so on. Where areas are accessible only to skilled or instructed persons, and where unauthorised persons are unlikely to enter due to the presence of warning notices, locks and so on, earthing may be replaced by the provision of obstacles which make direct contact unlikely, provided that the installation complies with the Electricity at Work Regulations, 1989.