High Resistance Connection’s (HRC)

There are many examples around the UK where a fire had started due to High Resistance Connection’s (HRC), the title picture for this post is of Clandon Park which was devastated by a fire caused by an electrical fault on 29th April 2015.

According to the Mail Online the cost of rebuilding the property will be between ￡50,000,000 and ￡100,000,000 and this doesn't include the value of the heritage that has been lost in the fire.

 This phenomenon is not only confined to electrical installations in the UK, it is a worldwide problem which can be addressed.

Technology is currently available to prevent these types of fire. Once activated, the supply can be isolated and if isolation is not required, the device can provide a simple open to closed connection which could be introduced to building management and fire alarm systems, security systems and other types of local alarms.

Electrical accessories i.e. single/double sockets, fused spurs and shower pull cord switches fitted with this technology can utilise the already installed Residual Current Device (RCD) within a consumer unit or distribution board to isolate the whole circuit containing the faulty accessory.

The installation method of the electrical accessories is no different from standard fittings; however, there will be a need to ensure an RCD is fitted and tested. The setting up of the protection within a consumer unit or distribution board can be carried out quickly and normally takes around 15 minutes.

The solution provided by this type of technology prevents heat from creating a fire and as such ensures that there is no loss of life or property.