BUILDING SERVICES – STUDENT’S NOTES

DBT/DCE
Introduction
- This module involves plumbing, electrical services and maintenance of building works. The
module unit is designed to equip the trainee with necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes
necessary in the design and installation of building services, and maintenance of buildings.
The skill gained will enable the graduate of this module to select tools and equipments and
to be competent in plumbing, electrical, mechanical services and maintenance of building
services.
- The trainee must have proper knowledge of general building construction methods course in
Module 1 and 2 to enable him/her handle plumbing, electrical and maintenance services, and
maintenance.

General Objectives

- By the end of the module unit, the trainee should be able to: -

a. Appreciate the design and installation of services, maintenance and demolition

b. Understand the concepts of measurement and estimation of building, plumbing and
mechanical services, maintenance and demolition.
c. Understand safety requirements in building services, maintenance and demolition
work
d. Apply the knowledge of building services, maintenance and demolition as required.

COURSE OUTLINE
1. Electrical Services
➢ Tools
➢ Instrument
➢ Tools storage
➢ Circuit diagram
➢ Installation
2. Safety and Regulations for Electrical Services
➢ Dangers
➢ Unsuitable clothing
 ➢ Attitude
➢ Abnormal usage of electricity
➢ Different Injuries
➢ Supply Regulations
➢ Factory Act
➢ IEE Regulations
➢ Fire Alarms
3. Ventilation
➢ Criteria
➢ Ventilation
➢ Ventilation opening in a Building
4. Plumbing Services
➢ Cold and Hot water supply
➢ Direct and Indirect systems
➢ Sanitary Appliances
➢ Drainage Appliances
➢ Drainage systems
➢ Storm water Drainage
➢ Piping
➢ Gas installation
➢ Fire protection
TOPIC 1: ELECTRICAL NOTES

Specific objectives

- By the end of this sub-module unit, the trainee should be able to: -
➢ Identify hand and power tools
➢ Select proper hand and power tools and measuring instruments for a given task
➢ Use tools correctly
➢ Identify faulty and worn out tools
➢ Demonstrate proper methods of tools storage
➢ Design circuit diagrams
➢ Perform electrical installation in buildings

Definition of Conduit: A pipe for carrying electrical cables

Types of conduits
a) Metallic
(Class A – Light gauge, Class B – heavy gauge)
- Rigid Conduit
- Flexible Conduit

b) Non-metallic
(Class A – Light gauge, Class B – heavy gauge)
- Rigid Conduit.
- Flexible Conduit
Four types of metal conduit fitting

Types of Fittings

Conduit fittings can be listed as follows, based on the function they serve and how they are
installed:

a. Bends

- To save time, equipment and labor costs, you can tackle changes in the direction of a
conduit with pre-fabricated bends.
- Commonly called ‘factory bends’ or ‘elbows’, they are available in a variety of lengths
and curvatures, and according to NEC requirements, you can bend certain tubings by hand,
using a mechanical bender or a hydraulic bender for larger ones.
- However, an installation may require a lot of bends, and bending conduits on location
might damage them or reduce the internal diameter.
- Even with the use of factory bends, the NEC does restrict the number of bends you can
have between pull boxes to a maximum of 360°, including offsets at the box or enclosure.

b. Couplers

- Conduit couplers are essential for almost any coupling system, for securely linking together
lengths of conduit and attaching site-fabricated bends.
- Even though PVC conduits with a belled side can be linked without couplings, they would
still be needed for sections where the conduit has been cut to size.
- Couplings are available in a variety of sizes and some of them, like rigid conduit couplings,
are threaded on the inside.
- However, when the conduit is passing through a wall or making some other transition,
consider using a conduit body instead.
- Even for the first sections of conduit entering or leaving the box or enclosure, use pull boxes
or bodies so the conductors can easily be retracted if the enclosure needs to be removed.

c. Drains

- In areas where the temperature varies significantly, or the conduit runs from a warm area to
a cooler one, moisture in the air starts condensing.

- To prevent drips and water-logging in the conduit runs, install drains at the lowest points of
each run that might be affected, or at locations where water might get trapped and
accumulate.

- For embedded and buried conduits, installing a run within the encased part may be difficult.

- You can create a low-point or a dip just before the conduit goes underground and install a
drain there.

d. Bushings and Locknuts

- Bushings create a smooth entry point to conduits without any sharp edges, protecting the
conductors from damage during wire pulls.

- They are also extremely important when the conduit system enters an enclosure or bus box.

- A bushing is installed on the inside of the box opening and threaded into the conduit end,
separating the conductors from the edges of both the opening and the conduit end.

- Locknuts are threaded on the inside, with teeth on one surface or both, which grip the
surface.

- They installed on both sides of the opening to ensure that both the conduit and bushing are
held firmly in place.
- If the locknut has teeth on only one side, that side should face the box.

e. Straps and Clamps

- Long runs of conduit and tubing require additional support to keep them from sagging or
breaking under their own weight.
- Straps are used to mount the conduit to ceilings or walls using a screws or bolts.
- To fasten conduit runs to fixed structures, like beams, hangers or unistrut channels, the
conduit is supported using clamps.
- For most installations, the NEC specifies the maximum length of unsupported RMC and
EMT running in a straight line as 10 feet, and within three or five feet of a box.
- For liquid tight flexible conduits, this reduces to every 4.5 feet of conduit length and within
12 inches of a box or enclosure.

f. Through box
g. End box
h. 4-way box
i. 3-way box

Conduit fixings
- The various types of conduit fixings include: -
a) Saddles
b) Saddle clips
c) Hook

Sources of electrical
- Sources of Electrical Energy includes; -
✓ Solar energy
✓ Wind Energy
✓ Geothermal Energy
✓ Hydrogen Energy
✓ Tidal Energy
✓ Wave Energy
✓ Hydroelectric Energy
✓ Biomass Energy
✓ Nuclear Power
✓ Fossil Fuels (Coal, Oil and Natural Gas)

Electrical tests and instruments used

Tools:
- Tools used for electrical works include: -
• screw drivers,
• pliers,
• phase testers,
• power drill
• Knives.
Equipment:
- Equipment used for electrical works include: -

• Voltmeter (Measures voltage)

• Ohmmeter (Measures resistance)
• Ammeter, e.g. Galvanometer or Milliammeter (Measures current)
• Multimeter e.g., VOM (Volt-Ohm-Milliammeter) or DMM (Digital Multimeter) (Measures
all of the above)

Electrical Safety Rules

1. Avoid contact with energized electrical circuits.

2. Treat all electrical devices as if they are live or energized.
3. Disconnect the power source before servicing or repairing electrical equipment.
4. Use only tools and equipment with non-conducting handles when working on electrical
devices.
5. Never use metallic pencils or rulers, or wear rings or metal watchbands when working with
electrical equipment.
6. When it is necessary to handle equipment that is plugged in, be sure hands are dry and,
when possible, wear nonconductive gloves, protective clothes and shoes with insulated soles
7. If it is safe to do so, work with only one hand, keeping the other hand at your side or in your
pocket, away from all conductive material. This precaution reduces the likelihood of
accidents that result in current passing through the chest cavity.
8. Minimize the use of electrical equipment in cold rooms or other areas where condensation is
likely. If equipment must be used in such areas, mount the equipment on a wall or vertical
panel.
9. If water or a chemical is spilled onto equipment, shut off power at the main switch or circuit
breaker and unplug the equipment..
10. If an individual comes in contact with a live electrical conductor, do not touch
the equipment, cord or person. Disconnect the power source from the circuit breaker or
pull out the plug using a leather belt.
11. Equipment producing a “tingle” should be disconnected and reported promptly for repair.
12. Do not rely on grounding to mask a defective circuit nor attempt to correct a fault by
insertion of another fuse or breaker, particularly one of larger capacity.
13. Drain capacitors before working near them and keep the short circuit on the terminals during
the work to prevent electrical shock.
14. Never touch another person’s equipment or electrical control devices unless instructed to do
so.
15. Enclose all electric contacts and conductors so that no one can accidentally come into
contact with them. If applicable do it always, if not be very careful.
16. Never handle electrical equipment when hands, feet, or body are wet or perspiring, or when
standing on a wet floor.
17. When it is necessary to touch electrical equipment (for example, when checking for
overheated motors), use the back of the hand. Thus, if accidental shock were to cause
muscular contraction, you would not “freeze” to the conductor.
18. Do not store highly flammable liquids near electrical equipment.
19. Be aware that interlocks on equipment disconnect the high voltage source when a cabinet
door is open but power for control circuits may remain on. Read the single line diagram and
wiring schemes – know your switchboard.
20. De-energize open experimental circuits and equipment to be left unattended.
21. Do not wear loose clothing or ties near electrical equipment.

What is Electrical Wiring?

- Electrical Wiring is a process of connecting cables and wires to the related devices such as
fuse, switches, sockets, lights, fans etc. to the main distribution board is a specific structure
to the utility pole for continues power supply.

- Methods of Electrical Wiring Systems w.r.t Taking Connection

- Wiring (a process of connecting various accessories for distribution of electrical energy

from supplier’s meter board to home appliances such as lamps, fans and other domestic
appliances is known as Electrical Wiring) can be done using two methods which are:
✓ Joint box system or Tee system
✓ Loop – in system

They are discussed as follows:-

Joint Box or Tee or Jointing System

- In this method of wiring, connections to appliances are made through joints.

- These joints are made in joint boxes by means of suitable connectors or joints cutouts.
- This method of wiring doesn’t consume too much cables size.
-
- You might think because this method of wiring doesn’t require too much cable it is therefore
cheaper.
- It is of course but the money you saved from buying cables will be used in buying joint
boxes, thus equation is balanced.
- This method is suitable for temporary installations and it is cheap.
Loop-in or Looping System

- This method of wiring is universally used in wiring.

- Lamps and other appliances are connected in parallel so that each of the appliances can be
controlled individually.
- When a connection is required at a light or switch, the feed conductor is looped in by
bringing it directly to the terminal and then carrying it forward again to the next point to be
fed.
- The switch and light feeds are carried round the circuit in a series of loops from one point to
another until the last on the circuit is reached.
- The phase or line conductors are looped either in switchboard or box and neutrals are
looped either in switchboard or from light or fan.
- Line or phase should never be looped from light or fan.
Advantages of Loop-In Method of Wiring

✓ It doesn’t require joint boxes and so money is saved

✓ In loop – in systems, no joint is concealed beneath floors or in roof spaces.
✓ Fault location is made easy as the points are made only at outlets so that they are
accessible.
Disadvantages of Loop-In Method of Wiring
✓ Length of wire or cables required is more and voltage drop and copper losses are
therefore more
✓ Looping – in switches and lamp holders is usually difficult.

Different Types of Electrical Wiring Systems

- The types of internal wiring usually used are; -

✓ Cleat wiring
✓ Wooden casing and capping wiring
✓ CTS or TRS or PVC sheath wiring
✓ Lead sheathed or metal sheathed wiring
✓ Conduit wiring

- There are additional types of conduit wiring according to Pipes installation (Where steel and
PVC pipes are used for wiring connection and installation).
✓ Surface or open Conduit type
✓ Recessed or concealed or underground type Conduit

Cleat Wiring

- This system of wiring comprises of ordinary VIR or PVC insulated wires (occasionally,
sheathed and weather proof cable) braided and compounded held on walls or ceilings by
means of porcelain cleats, Plastic or wood.
- Cleat wiring system is a temporary wiring system therefore it is not suitable for domestic
premises.
- The use of cleat wiring system is over nowadays.
Advantages of Cleat Wiring:

✓ It is simple and cheap wiring system

✓ Most suitable for temporary use i.e. under construction building or army camping
✓ As the cables and wires of cleat wiring system is in open air, Therefore fault in
cables can be seen and repair easily.
✓ Cleat wiring system installation is easy and simple.
✓ Customization can be easily done in this wiring system e.g. alteration and addition.
✓ Inspection is easy and simple.
Disadvantages of Cleat Wiring:

✓ Appearance is not so good.

✓ Cleat wiring can’t be use for permanent use because, Sag may be occur after sometime of
the usage.
 ✓ In this wiring system, the cables and wiring is in open air, therefore,
oil, Steam, humidity, smoke, rain, chemical and acidic effect may damage the cables and
wires.
✓ It is not lasting wire system because of the weather effect, risk of fire and wear & tear.
✓ It can be only used on 250/440 Volts on low temperature.
✓ There is always a risk of fire and electric shock.
✓ It can’t be used in important and sensitive location and places.
✓ It is not lasting, reliable and sustainable wiring system.

Batten Wiring (CTS or TRS)

- Single core or double core or three core TRS cables with a circular oval shape cables are
used in this kind of wiring.
- Mostly, single core cables are preferred.
- TRS cables are chemical proof, water proof, steam proof, but are slightly affected by
lubricating oil.
- The TRS cables are run on well-seasoned and straight teak wood batten with at least a
thickness of 10mm.
- The cables are held on the wooden batten by means of tinned brass link clips (buckle clip)
already fixed on the batten with brass pins and spaced at an interval of 10cm for horizontal
runs and 15cm for vertical runs.
Advantages of Batten Wiring

✓ Wiring installation is simple and easy

✓ cheap as compared to other electrical wiring systems
✓ Paraphrase is good and beautiful
✓ Repairing is easy
✓ strong and long-lasting
✓ Customization can be easily done in this wiring system.
✓ less chance of leakage current in batten wiring system
Disadvantages of Batten Wiring

✓ Can’t be installed in the humidity, Chemical effects, open and outdoor areas.
✓ High risk of firs
✓ Not safe from external wear & tear and weather effects (because, the wires are openly
visible to heat, dust, steam and smoke.
✓ Heavy wires can’t be used in batten wiring system.
✓ Only suitable below then 250V.
 ✓ Need more cables and wires.

Lead Sheathed Wiring

- The type of wiring employs conductors that are insulated with VIR and covered with an
outer sheath of lead aluminum alloy containing about 95% of lead.
- The metal sheath given protection to cables from mechanical damage, moisture and
atmospheric corrosion.
- The whole lead covering is made electrically continuous and is connected to earth at the
point of entry to protect against electrolytic action due to leaking current and to provide
safety in case the sheath becomes alive.
- The cables are run on wooden batten and fixed by means of link clips just as in TRS wiring.

Conduit Wiring
- There are two additional types of conduit wiring according to pipe installation; -

✓ Surface Conduit Wiring

✓ Concealed Conduit Wiring

Surface Conduit Wiring

- If conduits installed on roof or wall, it is known as surface conduit wiring.
- In this wiring method, they make holes on the surface of wall on equal distances and conduit
is installed then with the help of rawal plugs.

Concealed Conduit wiring

- If the conduits are hidden inside the wall slots with the help of plastering, it is called
concealed conduit wiring.
- In other words, the electrical wiring system inside wall, roof or floor with the help of plastic
or metallic piping is called concealed conduit wiring.
- It is the most popular, beautiful, stronger and common electrical wiring system nowadays.

- In conduit wiring, steel tubes known as conduits are installed on the surface of walls by
means of pipe hooks (surface conduit wiring) or buried in walls under plaster and VIR or
PVC cables are afterwards drawn by means of a GI wire of size if about 18SWG.
- In Conduit wiring system, the conduits should be electrically continuous and connected to
earth at some suitable points in case of steel conduit.
- Conduit wiring is a professional way of wiring a building. Mostly PVC conduits are used in
domestic wiring.
- The conduit protects the cables from being damaged by rodents (when rodents bites the
cables it will cause short circuit) that is why circuit breakers are in place though but hey!
Prevention is better than cure.
- Lead conduits are used in factories or when the building is prone to fire accident.
- Trunking is more of like surface conduit wiring. It’s gaining popularity too.
- It is done by screwing a PVC trunking pipe to a wall then passing the cables through the
pipe.
- The cables in conduit should not be too tight. Space factor have to be put into consideration.
Types of Conduit
- Following conduits are used in the conduit wiring systems (both concealed and surface
conduit wiring) which are shown in the above image.

✓ Metallic Conduit
✓ Non-metallic conduit
Metallic Conduit:
- Metallic conduits are made of steel which are very strong but costly as well.
- There are two types of metallic conduits.

✓ Class A Conduit: Low gauge conduit (Thin layer steel sheet conduit)
✓ Class B Conduit: High gauge conduit (Thick sheet of steel conduit)
Non-metallic Conduit:

- A solid PVC conduit is used as non-metallic conduit now a days, which is flexible and easy
to bend.

Size of Conduit:
- The common conduit pipes are available in different sizes genially, 13, 16.2, 18.75, 20, 25,
37, 50, and 63 mm (diameter) or 1/2, 5/8, 3/4, 1, 1.25, 1.5, and 2 inch in diameter.

Advantage of Conduit Wiring Systems

✓ It is the safest wiring system (Concealed conduit wring)

✓ Appearance is very beautiful (in case of concealed conduit wiring)
✓ No risk of mechanical wear & tear and fire in case of metallic pipes.
✓ Customization can be easily done according to the future needs.
✓ Repairing and maintenance is easy.
✓ There is no risk of damage the cables insulation.
✓ It is safe from corrosion (in case of PVC conduit) and risk of fire.
✓ It can be used even in humidity, chemical effect and smoky areas.
✓ No risk of electric shock (In case of proper earthing and grounding of metallic pipes).
✓ It is reliable and popular wiring system.
✓ Sustainable and long-lasting wiring system.
Disadvantages of Conduit Wiring Systems

✓ It is expensive wiring system (Due to PVC and Metallic pipes, Additional earthing for
metallic pipes Tee(s) and elbows etc.
✓ Very hard to find the defects in the wiring.
✓ Installation is not easy and simple.
✓ Risk of electric shock (In case of metallic pipes without proper earthing & grounding
system).
✓ Very complicated to manage additional connection in the future.

What is the difference between radial connection and ring connection of socket outlets?

- In a 'radial' circuit each outlet is wired directly back to the distribution board.
- The distribution point will be fused, for each outlet.
- The radials are sized to carry the maximum current for that outlet. In
a 'ring' circuit the outlets in the ring are wired together.

How many sockets can be on a radial?

- If you adhere to the principles above e.g. a radial circuit running from a consumer unit with
its own MCB of the correct rating can have as many sockets as you like, as long as it's in an
area not exceeding 50 square metres (or 540sq ft).

How many 13A sockets can be on a radial circuit?

- The IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) permit an unlimited number of 13A socket outlets
(at any point unfused single or double, or any number fused) to be installed on a ring circuit,
provided that the floor area served does not exceed 100 m2.
- Worldwide, radial wiring is by far the most commonly used technique.
- A ring circuit provides two independent conductors for line, neutral and protective earth for
each connected socket (see scheme above).
- However, ring wiring was not driven by copper shortage.

Radial Circuits - Socket Outlets

- A single cable (containing live, neutral and earth wires) starts from the consumer unit or
fuse box, and connects to each socket outlet in turn.

- Each socket outlet is supplied with power by the previous one.

- The final socket outlet can be identified easily, as it will only have one cable connected to
it.

- Faults on radial circuits are easy to locate. If there is a break anywhere along the cable, all
of the socket outlets after the break will no longer work.

- Radial socket outlet circuits are less common in UK dwellings, as until recently, the usual
method was the ring circuit.

Socket Wiring

- How to wire a ring main, final main, ring circuit or final circuit ring

- The radial circuit can be turned into a ring circuit by completing the wiring back to the
consumer unit and similarly the ring main, or final circuit ring can be turned into two radial
mains by removing a section of the ring.

- This is one of the failure points of a ring main or final ring circuit which is identified below
in the pros and cons of using a ring or radial circuit

I.E.E REGULATIONS ON CONDUITS INSTALLATION

✓ All conduits and fittings must comply with the relevant British Standards.
✓ Plastic conduits must not be used where the ambient temperature or the temperature of
the enclosed cables will exceed 60°C.
 ✓ Conduit systems must be designed and erected so as to exclude moisture, dust and dirt.
This means that they must be completely closed, with box lids fitted. To ensure that
condensed moisture does not accumulate, small drainage holes must be provided at the
lowest parts of the system.
✓ Proper precautions must be taken against the effects of corrosion, as well as against the
effects of flora (plant growths) and fauna (animals). Protection from rusting of steel
conduit involves the use of galvanized (zinc coated) tubing, and against electrolytic
corrosion the prevention of contact between dissimilar metals e.g. steel and aluminum.
✓ A conduit system must be completely erected before cables are drawn in. It must be free
of burrs or other defects which could damage cables whilst being inserted.
✓ The bends in the system must be such that the cables drawn in will comply with the
minimum bending radius requirements
✓ The conduit must be installed so that fire cannot spread through it, or through holes cut
in floors or walls to allow it to pass.
✓ Allowance must be made, in the form of expansion loops, for the thermal expansion of
long runs of metal or plastic conduit. Remember that plastic expands and contracts more
than steel.
✓ Use flexible joints when crossing building expansion joints

Advantages of conduit wiring system:

✓ PVC conduits offer a highly resistant against corrosion.

✓ It is a durable and very popular system.
✓ It is a waterproof wiring system.
✓ No risk of electric shock.
✓ Alternations are possible.
✓ Maintenance is easy.
✓ It has a long life.

Disadvantages of conduit wiring system:

✓ It is difficult to install. More time is needed.

✓ Fault finding process is very difficult.
✓ In case of steel conduit, it is a more expensive system compared to other wiring
systems.
Why is an Earthing Necessary?
✓ It keeps people safe by preventing electric shocks.
✓ It prevents damage to electrical appliances and devices by preventing excessive current
from running through the circuit.
✓ It prevents the risk of fire that could otherwise be caused by current leakage.

Types of Earthing

Plate earthing

- Plate earthing requires a copper or galvanized iron to be buried vertically into the earth in an
earth pit, dug more than 10 feet into the ground.
- These earth pits are then filled with charcoal and salt in alternate layers.

Pipe earthing

- For pipe earthing, a pipe of galvanized steel is placed in the soil instead of a plate.

- The pipe is drilled with holes for connecting the earthing wires.

- The length and diameter of the pipe depends on the type of soil and the type of electrical
installation.

- In this method as well, the earth pits are filled with alternate layers of charcoal and salt for
inducing reactivity.

- Pipe earthing is the most common type of earthing.

Rod earthing

- Similar to pipe earthing, rod earthing requires the burying of a rod made of copper or
galvanized iron.

- Electrodes are embedded in the soil and thus decrease the resistance of the earth as required.

Wire earthing

- For wire earthing, several horizontal trenches are dug. Strip electrodes are buried inside
these trenches.

- These electrodes are made of copper, or galvanized iron or steel. Sometimes, round
conductors are also used in the ground.

Waterman method

- The Waterman method calls for the use of Waterman or galvanized GI pipes.
- These pipes are buried in the earth and earthing clamps are used to reduce the resistance for
the electrical connection.
- Irrespective of which method is used for earthing, it is important to ensure that the size of
the device, depth of its burial, and its connection to the electrical installations is done with
great care.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Trunking Wring System

➢ The cables are enclosed in trunking; there is no risk of cable insulation to be damaged.
➢ Cables are safe against dust and humidity.
➢ Alternations are possible.
➢ Trunking system has a long life.
Conduit fittings

Conduit Wiring:

- There are two main types of Conduit Wiring which are as follows:
✓ Surface Conduit Wiring.

✓ Concealed Conduit Wiring.

Surface Conduit Wiring:

- This wiring is done on the outside of the wall. Such wiring is known as Surface Conduit
Wiring.
- This is done by making a hole in the wall at equal distances and fixing it with the help of a
GI clamp.

- And by pulling the wire through this pipe, it is given to the board and light, fan, or another
consumer device.

Concealed Conduit Wiring:

- A plastic or metal pipe is concealed inside the plaster by drilling a hole in the wall under this
wiring.

- This wiring is called Concealed Conduit Wiring. Says Conduit Wiring. These wiring mouths
are widely used nowadays.

- In this wiring, the pipe that is pressed inside the plaster should be continuous and there
should be no puncture or block.

- If a steel or other metal pipe is used, it is necessary to give it some distance earthing.

- But especially when it comes to the house, most of the PVC pipe is used.

- Doing this wiring protects against rodents and rodents.

- So wire cutting can easily get rid of such a problem.

- That is why this wiring is more convenient and popular for home or office.
Advantages of Concealed Conduit Wiring:

- The benefits of Concealed Conduit Wiring are as follows:

✓ Looks good in appearance compared to another wiring.

✓ Wire insulation is not damaged in any way.

✓ The lifespan of this wiring is long.

✓ Is shockproof.

✓ Safe compared to another wiring.

✓ There is no risk of fire or mechanical wear and tear.

Disadvantages of Concealed Conduit Wiring:

- The disadvantages of Concealed Conduit Wiring are as follows:

✓ The cost of this remains high.

✓ Customization is not easy.
✓ Locating faults is not easy.
✓ Installation is difficult.

Trunking wiring system

Definition:
- Cable trunking is an enclosure usually with a rectangular cross section, and with one
removable or hinged side, that is used to protect cables and provide space for other electrical
equipment.
- The cable trunking system will protect cables from dust or water ingress.

Types and Sizes of Steel Trunking

- There are a number of types of steel trunking such as:-

✓Lighting Trunking
✓Cable trunking
✓Multi-Compartment trunking
✓Bus-bar Trunking

- Typical surface finishes: -

✓ Hot dipped galvanized coating

✓ Grey enamel on zinc coating
✓ Silver enamel on zinc coating
✓ Stainless steel
- Standard Sizes of Trunking

✓ Trunking is generally supplied in 3 metre lengths.

✓ Lighting trunking is often supplied in 5 metre lengths.
✓ Other lengths are available on request.

Advantages and disadvantages of Trunking wiring system

Factors that affect the choice of a wiring system

✓ Cost of wiring:

- The initial cost of the wiring system to be chosen or selected is one of the paramount factors
to be considered.
- It should be economical and safe.

✓ Durability
- When making choices for wiring system, the wiring type should be durable (long lasting)
and should also be of proper specifications and in accordance with assessed life and type of
building to be wired.
- You should not carry out cleat wiring for a permanent building because cleat wiring is
suitable for temporary buildings only.
- Any wiring should withstand wear and tear that may result due to unfavorable weather.
- The cables used should be able to carry maximum current without overheating.

✓ Permanency
- The wiring should not deteriorate by the action of weather, fumes, dampness etc. the cables
should be resistant to harsh weather and chemical attacks.

✓ Accessibility

- Facilities used in the wiring should be available (within range) and accessible when the
need for alteration, extension or renewal arises.
 ✓ Appearance
- The wiring should provide a good look after its installation.
- If cleat or casing – capping wiring is used in a modern building, it will spoil the outlook of
that building.
- Conduit wiring is preferred mostly for modern buildings except that it’s expensive.
- PVC wiring system is also good for modern buildings. PVC wiring is very popular.

✓ Mechanical Protection
- The wiring should be protected from mechanical damage during its use.

✓ Safety
- When it comes to wiring, safety is one of the most paramount factors to be considered
because electrocution is one thing you won’t have the time to give it a second thought.
- Where there is possibility of fire hazard, conduit wiring should be used.

✓ Maintenance Cost
- Wiring system employed should have low maintenance cost.

✓ Load
- The types of loads consuming the electrical energy in a building will determine the kinds of
cables to be used.
- You cannot use a cable with small diameter for heavy loads.
- The cables will damage.
- Voltage to be employed and fire hazard and insurance standards should also be kept in mind
in case of large factories.

Black enamel conduit

What is black enamel steel conduit used for?

- Steel Conduit in a Black Enamel finish is generally used to add weight to the bottom of
painted cloths and borders to get a neat straight edge.
- The gentle weight will help pull out any creases in the cloths caused by rolling or folding.

Does black enamel conduit rust?

- In addition, the inner surface is smooth to prevent damage to wires being pulled through it,
and the finish is rust-resistant.
- Black-enamel conduit is used for dry and indoor installations, and galvanized conduit is
used in outside installations to provide moisture protection for the conductors.
Why reaming the conduit after cutting is important?

- Ream the cut end of the conduit.

- The cutting process, especially when using a roll cutter, leaves sharp burrs that can impede
threading or damage wiring, therefore it is important to ream the interior and smooth the
exterior of the cut.
- A cylindrical rotary reamer is often used for the interior.

Which tool is used to bend conduits?

- The conduit bender is a pipe bender (Conduit bending machine) specifically made to bend
conduit pipe. Conduit pipe is pipe used to run electrical wires through.

Silver grey conduit

Product Specification

Type Heavy (HMS)

Color Grey
Length 50m
Brand Silver
Material PVC
Size 16 mm
 Product Description

- Being the market leader, we are actively devoted towards providing well tested Flexible
Conduit Pipe.

- The provided pipe is used for sanitary works in houses, showrooms, buildings, shops, big
business houses and many other places.

- Conduit pipe provided by us is manufactured from qualitative raw material that we sourced
from the most genuine vendors of the market and sophisticated technology.

- Being a quality driven company, we assure our clients that this conduit pipe is best in terms
of quality, strength and durability.

Features:

• Leakage proof

• Optimum flexibility

• Chemical resistance

Basic electrical symbols

LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR INSTALLATIONS

Machine, general s
* function etc

Load, general s
* details

Motor starter, general s

* Indicates type etc.

Socket-outlet, general symbol

Twin Socket-outlet, general symbol

Switched socket-outlet

Twin Switched socket-outlet

Switch, general symbol

2 way switch, single pole

Intermediate switch

Pull switch, single-pole

Push button

Clock, general symbol

Bell (Audible)

Buzzer (Audible)

Siren (Audible)

Horn

Telephone handset, general symbol

POPULAR SYMBOLS

Making and breaking current

Switch

Switch- fuse

Fuse-switch

Isolating

Isolator (Disconnector), general symbol

Disconnector - fuse (fuse combination unit)

Fuse – disconnector

Electrical distribution Board

Switch symbols
TOPIC 2. SAFETY AND REGULATIONS FOR ELECTRICAL SERVICES

By the end of the lesson, the learner should be able to:-

a. Identify the dangers in the workshop

b. Demonstrate first aid techniques for treating different injuries
c. Identify the types of electrical safety regulations
d. Explain the methods of setting up an alarm signal incase of fire

I. Danger

- The stipulated measures/notices should be observed whenever people are working in the
workshop.
- This is done in order to ensure that people are not exposed unnecessarily to dangers that
may lead to personal injury/loss.
- These dangers may result from;-
• Putting on unsuitable clothing
• Attitude, ie wrong attitude while in the workshop. This may be due to
carelessness or ignorance
• Abnormal use of electricity
• Shock, fires and bonus

II. First aid

- The first aid kits should be provided in the workshop as a safety measure to be used as a
precaution incase of any accidents occurring before actual treatment is offered.
- The first aid offered can be treat cases relating to different injuries like fractures, burns, and
electric shocks.

III. Electrical Safety regulations

a. Factory Act
- It focuses on improving the conditions for the personnel working in a factory.
- It generally guards the rights of workers while executing their duties.
- A factory according to the International Labour Organization (ILO); is any premise where
ten/more workers are working for manufacturing purposes.
- The premises should therefore be registered with the right board so that the manufacturing
activities are regulated or inspected.
- There should be proper use of machines; securing those with moving parts to minimize
accidents.
- No young people should work in a factory unless s/he has sufficient training and is under
recommended supervision.
 b. IEEE regulations (International Electronics and Electrical Engineers
regulations).

- There should be safe erection/selection of wiring installation.

- This deals with earthing, bonding, protection and circuit design of electrical wiring.

c. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act)

- Envisioned as an act of the parliament to provide for the safety, health and welfare of
workers and all persons lawfully present at workplaces.
- It provides for the establishment of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health
and for connected purpose.
- The employees should have relevant competency to carry out the work.
- Occupational hygiene should be observed. It means the anticipation, recognition, evaluation,
monitoring and control of conditions arising in or from the work place which may cause
illness or adverse health effects to persons.

N/B:-

The employer should ensure the following:-

✓ Secure the safety, health and welfare of persons at work

✓ Protect persons other than person at work against risks of safety and health arising
out of or in connection with activities of persons at work.
✓ Sufficient information provided, instruction and training and supervision to workers
to enhance safety and health.
✓ Safe Handling, storage, use and transport of articles and substances.
✓ Inform all persons of risks of any new technology and imminent danger.

d. WIBA(Work Injury Benefit Act)

- Created as an act of the parliament providing for compensation to employees for work
related injuries and diseases contracted in the course of their employment and for connected
purposes.

N/B;-

The following persons are excluded from the benefits accrued from this Act;

❖ Casual laborers
❖ Anybody employed outside Kenya
❖ A member of the employer’s family dwelling in the employer’s house not for
employment purposes of employment.
❖ Member of the Armed Forces as defined in the Armed Forces Act.
- Dependants who may benefit from this Act include;-

❖ Widow or widower dependent on the employee

❖ Children under 18years/step-child or adopted and dependent on the employee at the
time of the accident.
❖ Parent/step-parent or adoptive parent
❖ A child of an employee not contemplated in point 2 above
❖ Brother/sister/parent/grandchildren etc
❖ Any person who at the time of the accident dependent on the employee.

- A right to compensation lapses after duration of 12 months from the time of accident and no
compensation claim has been launched.

TOPIC 3: VENTILATION

- By the end of this topic, the learner should be able to:-

a. Explain the ventilation criteria.

b. Describe types of ventilation systems.
c. Explain ventilation requirements for different types of buildings.

CONTENT

I. Ventilation Criteria

- Ventilation is the supply of fresh outside air into an enclosed space or the removal of inside
air from the enclosed space. That is, the removal of all vitiated air from a building and its
replacement with fresh air.
- Ventilation criteria should be based on the following three premises:-

a. The selection of defined category of air quality for the space to be ventilated.
b. The total load of pollutants in the occupied space.
c. The quality of outside air available.

- Ventilation is therefore necessary for the following reasons:-

i. Creation of air movement

ii. Prevention of undue accumulation of calm carbon monoxide
iii. Prevention of accumulation of dust and bacteria carrying particles.
iv. Prevention of flammable concentration of gas vapour.
v. Prevention of oduor caused by decomposition of building materials.
vi. Removal of smoke, oduor and foul smell generated or liberated by the occupants
vii. Removal of heat generated/liberated by the occupants.
viii. Prevention of condensation/deposition of moisture on wall surfaces
 ix. Prevention of suffocation conditions in big rooms e.g.;- cinema halls, conference
rooms etc.

II. Ventilation Systems

- Ventilation systems are divided into two. That is;-

➢ Natural ventilation system

➢ Mechanical / artificial ventilation system

a. Natural Ventilation System

- In this system, the ventilation process is facilitated by the elaborated use of doors, windows,
ventilators and skylights.
- This system is usually suitable for residential buildings and small houses.
- Cross ventilation is normally relied on to secure air movement.
- It’s economical since no equipment is required for keeping the room ventilated.
- The rate of ventilation depends on two effects;-

➢ Wind effect; - the rate of ventilation depends upon the direction and velocity of
the wind outside and sizes and positions of openings.
➢ Stack effect; - the rate of ventilation is affected by the convection effects arising
from temperature or vapor pressure difference between inside and outside of the
room and the difference in the height between the outlet and inlet openings.

N/B: - Ventilation due to both Natural and Mechanical effects.

- If both wind and stack pressures are acting, it is proper to calculate each pressure acting
independently under conditions ideal to it and then apply a percentage.
- The general rules governing natural ventilation include:-

i. Inlet openings in the buildings should be well-distributed and located on the

windward side at a low level. The outlet openings should be located on the
leeward side near the top so that the incoming air stream is passed over the
occupants.
ii. Inlet openings should not as far as possible be obstructed by adjoining buildings,
tress, partitioning walls etc.
iii. Greatest flow per unit area of opening is obtained by using inlet and outlet
openings of nearly equal areas.
iv. Where direction of wind is quite constant and dependable, the openings can be
readily arranged to take full advantage of the force of the wind.
v. Natural ventilation occurs when the air inside a building is at a different
temperature than the air outside.
vi. Windows of living rooms should either open directly to an open space or to an
unobstructed facing on open space.
 b. Mechanical (Artificial) Ventilation System

- It involves the use of some mechanical equipment for the effective air circulation.
- It’s provided in those circumstances where satisfactory standard of ventilation in respect of
air quantity, quality or controllability cannot be obtained by natural means.
- This system though costly, it results in considerable increase in the efficiency of air
circulation.
- The artificial ventilation systems includes the following:-

➢ Extraction system
➢ Plenum system
➢ Extraction-Plenum system
➢ Air-conditioning system

i. Extraction system

- Is based on creation of vacuum in the room by exhausting the vitiated inside air by means of
propeller type fans (exhaust fans).
- The extraction of air from the room permits the fresh air to flow from outside to inside either
through Tobin tube or even through a window.
- This system is more useful in removing smoke, dust, oduors e.t.c, from the kitchen, latrines,
industrial plants e.t.c.

ii. Plenum (Supply) system

- Fresh air is forced into the room and the vitiated air is allowed to leave through ventilators.
- The air inlet is selected on that side of the building where purest air is available.
- A constant stream of water is kept flowing down the screen giving a fine mist of water
through which air is drawn by means of blower fan.
- The ventilation by plenum process may be either downward or upward.

iii. Extraction-Plenum system

- Extraction-Plenum system is an extension of plenum system in which extraction fans are

used for the exit of the vitiated air from the room.
- This system is adopted where the delivery of fresh air is either sluggish or where it is desired
to discharge vitiated air containing obnoxious fumes as from the kitchen, latrines,
manufacturing processes especially in isolated areas e.t.c.

iv. Air Conditioning

- Air-conditioning is the process of treating air so as to control simultaneously its

temperature, humidity, purity and distribution to meet the requirements of the conditioned
space.
- Air-conditioning may be necessary because:-
 a. It helps in preserving or maintaining health, comfort and convenience of occupants
of residential buildings.
b. It helps in improving the quality of products in certain industrial processes e.g.; -
artificial silk, cotton cloth etc. It may also provide comfortable working conditions
for the workers resulting in increased productivity.
c. It helps in making commercial premises more efficient and active, e.g.; - banks,
offices etc.
d. It provides more comfortable entertainment theatres etc.

Classification of Air-conditioning

✓ Functional Classification

- Classified according to the functions

• Comfort air classification. The system aims at giving maximum human comfort
to the occupants of the conditioned space.
• Industrial air conditioning. The conditioning creates, control and maintains such
an environment inside the conditioned space, which would suit best to the needs
of the industry.

✓ Weather classification

- Classified according to the weather conditions under which the system is to be applied
(used).
• Summer air conditioning, used in hot/dry weather conditions. Its operations
include:
Air cleaning – Air cooling – Dehumidification – Air distribution/cooling.
• Winter air conditioning, used in cold weather conditions. Its operations include:-
Air cleaning – Air heating – Humidification – Air distribution/circulation.

- Essentials of comfort air conditioning include: -

➢ Temperature control
➢ Humidity control
➢ Air velocity control
➢ Air quality control

- Selection of air-conditioning systems is based on the following factors;-

➢ Capital cost
➢ Running and operating cost
➢ Space for the location of the equipment
➢ Type of application i.e. Whether comfort or industrial application
➢ Type of control required
➢ Acoustic considerations
 ➢ Type of filtration i.e. whether sterile room or clean room application

- Essentials of air conditioning system include:-

• Filtration
• Heating in cold/winter season
• Cooling in hot/summer season
• Humidification
• Dehumidification
• Air circulation/distribution.

III. Ventilation Requirements

- Ventilation should be able to meet the following functional requirements;

a) Air changes or movement

- Air changes per hour, is the volume of outside air allowed in the room or enclosed space per
hour compared to the volume of the room.

b) Humidity
- Humidity is the amount of water vapour in the air
- Relative humidity is the ratio of amount of water vapour present in the air to the amount of
water vapour if the air were saturated at the same temperature.

c) Quality of air
- Air should be free from impurities, oduors, organic and inorganic dust.
- Should also be free from unhealthy fumes e.g. carbon monoxide.

d) Effective temperature
- Incoming air should be cool in summer and warm in winter
- Effective temperature should be maintained for human comfort
TOPIC 4; PLUMBING SERVICES

Specific objectives

a. Design cold and hot water system

b. Identify various tools and equipment used in pipe work
c. Correctly use tools and equipment for pipe work
d. Describe cold and hot water system
e. Estimate cost of labor and materials
f. Observe safety

1. Cold water and Hot water supply

Introduction
- Water being the essence of life, can be obtained from the following sources;-

a. Surface sources;- lakes, streams, rivers, reservoirs, run-off from roofs and paved areas.
b. Underground sources;- shallow wells, deep wells, artesian wells, artesian springs, land
springs.

- Water supplied can be categorized as follows;-

❖ Category 1;

- Wholesome water supplied by an approved water undertaker that complies with standards
of wholesomeness defined in section 67 of the water Industry act.
- Suitable for domestic consumption and for food preparation purposes.
- Is obtained directly from the water company's main.

❖ Category 2;

- Water that is not considered to be a health hazard, although it is not suitable for drinking.

- Water originating from a category 1 source that has changed in temperature, taste, smell
or appearance.

- Some examples are water that has been subjected to a rise in temperature in a hot water
system, mixed cold and hot water and domestic water softened by salt regeneration.

❖ Category 3;

- Water that is possibly a health hazard, therefore unsuitable for drinking as it may contain
low concentrations of toxic additives.
- These include ethylene glycol (antifreeze) that may be used in solar systems of hot water
supply and sodium hypochlorite disinfectants.
- Also applies to the water in primary hot water and heating circuits (with or without
additives) and commercial water softening by salt regeneration.
 Category 4;

- Water that is a distinct health hazard due to concentrations of toxic substances or bacterial
or viral microorganisms, e.g. Legionnaires disease.
- Unsuitable for drinking or for any domestic uses. Includes water in non-domestic hot
water and heating circuits, treated water from processes other than salt regeneration,
water from commercial dishwashers and washing machines, water containing herbicides,
pesticides and other high concentrations of chemicals and carcinogenic substances. l

Category 5;

- The highest level of fluid toxicity and contamination.

- A serious health hazard from concentrations of pathogenic (diseasecarrying) organisms,
including bacteria and viruses such as salmonella and cholera.
- Water containing radioactive and very toxic substances.
- Many situations may apply, including poorly or unmaintained foodprocessing machinery,
sanitary facilities and medical equipment.
- Recycled greywater (waste water from basins, baths, shower trays, dishwashers and
washing machines) is in this category.

N/B;-

❖ Wholesome water; - water complying with regulations made under the Water Act
and (standards of wholesomeness) of the water Industry act. The term wholesome is
often used instead of potable, i.e. fit to drink.

❖ Grey water;- water from showers, baths, taps and washing machines, collected,
treated, stored and recycled as an alternative to using wholesome water for sanitary
appliances and for outdoor uses (gardening).

❖ Captured or harvested rainwater; - rainwater collected and stored from roofs and
other external surfaces. An old technology that has evolved to become integral with
contemporary building design. Used for flushing sanitary, washing machines and
garden watering.

a. Tools and equipment

➢ Stock and die

➢ Pipe wrench
➢ Set of spanner (s)
➢ Cold and hot water chisel
➢ Pipe wrench
➢ Spirit levels
➢ Ball pen hammer
➢ Measuring tape
➢ Clamps/saddle etc

b. Materials, fittings and valves

➢ Pipes
➢ Bends
➢ Tees
 ➢ Unions
➢ Water meters
➢ Valves (stop, drain, float, maintenance valves)
➢ Bolts
➢ Elbow etc

c. Cistern

- Cisterns can be manufactured from galvanized mild steel (large nondomestic capacities),
polypropylene or glass-reinforced plastics.
- They must be well insulated and supported on adequate bearers to spread the concentrated
load.
- Plastic cisterns will require uniform support on boarding over bearers. a dustproof cover
is essential to prevent contamination.
- For large buildings, cisterns are accommodated in a purpose-made plant room at roof
level or within the roof structure.
- The room must be well insulated and ventilated, and be provided with thermostatic
control of a heating facility.
- Where storage demand exceeds 4500 litres, cisterns must be duplicated and
interconnected.
- In the interests of load distribution this should be provided at much lower capacities.
- For maintenance and repairs each cistern must be capable of isolation and independent
operation.
- Majorly installed in washrooms to store water meant cleaning (washing out) human waste
from toilets after use.

d. Hot water cylinders

- Used for storage of hot water.

e. Boilers

- Used for heating water. Boilers are fitted with a thermostat to control the temperature of
the hot water leaving the boiler.
- Domestic and small commercial boilers are accommodated within normal ceiling heights
and their floor areas are not predicted with this equation. The area calculated allows for
two equally sized boilers, pipe work and water treatment, pressurization and pumping
equipment.

2. Drainage system and rain water harvesting

Specific objectives

a. Define the terminologies used in drainage

b. Identify tools used in the installation of systems
c. Select materials and tools
d. Describe the types of drainage systems
e. Lay and test the drains
f. Fabricate the rain water goods
g. Install rain water gutters and down pipe
 a. Terminologies

✓ Two pipe system

- This is more expensive during the installation stage but much more efficient system than
the one pipe system shown on the previous page.
- It is easier to balance since each radiator or heat emitter receives hot water at
approximately the same temperature because the hot water leaving the radiator is returned
to the boiler via the return pipe without passing through another radiator.

✓ One pipe system

- The hot water is circulated around the system by means of a centrifugal pump, the flow
pipe temperature being about 80C and the return pipe temperature being about 60 to 70C.
- The one pipe system is simple in concept and easy to install but has the main
disadvantage that the hot water passing through each heat emitter flows onto the next heat
emitter or radiator, therefore the average temperature of successive radiators is reduced
unless the radiators are carefully balanced or the size of the radiators at the end of the
circuit is increased to compensate for the temperature drop.

✓ Single stack

- Method developed to eliminate the need for ventilating pipe work to maintain the water
seals in traps to sanitary fittings.
- The slope and distance of the branch connections must be kept within a given design
limitations.
- This system is only possible when the sanitary appliances are closely grouped around the
discharge stack

✓ Ventilated Stack Systems

- Where the layout of sanitary appliances is such that they do not conform to the
requirements for the single stack system shown on the previous page ventilating pipes
will be required to maintain the water seals in the traps.
- Three methods are available to overcome the problem, namely a fully ventilated system, a
ventilated stack system and a modified single stack system which can be applied over any
number of storeys.

b. Traps

- Traps are structures along a drainage system meant to facilitate the inspection activities
along the system or to temporarily hold the waste awaiting disposal.
- These features include manholes, septic tank, soak away, and soak pits, cess pools and
sewer.
✓ Tools
- The tools used for plumbing works include: hacksaw, hammer (ball pen etc), pipe
wrench, clamper etc

✓ Materials
- The materials majorly involve various types of pipes and their respective fittings e.g.
uPVC, PPR, unions, elbows etc.
 ✓ Types of system
- There are three major systems of drainage i.e. combined, partially-combined and separate
systems.

i. Combined system
- This is the simplest and least expensive system to design and install but since all forms of
discharge are conveyed in the same sewer the whole effluent must be treated unless a sea
outfall is used to discharge the untreated effluent.

ii. Separate System

- The most common drainage system in use where the surface water discharge is conveyed
in separate drains and sewers to that of foul water discharges and therefore receives no
treatment before the final outfall.
iii. Partially Combined system
- It is a compromise system i.e. it comprises of the separate and combined systems
elements
- There are two drains, one to convey only surface water and a combined drain to convey
the total foul discharge and a proportion of the surface water.

f. Rainwater goods
- The rainwater goods are fitted to roof eaves to aid in the collection of rain water from
roof tops and then directing the collected water to disposal channels/points.
- The rain water goods include gutters, downpipe and brackets.
- The gutters are the collecting points of rain water from roof tops, brackets are meant to
hold both gutters and downpipe in place while the downpipe directs the collected water
from gutters to disposal channels.

TOPIC 3: FIRE FIGHTING

- By the end of this topic, the learner should be able to:-

a. Describe different types of fires

b. Explain methods of fire fighting
c. Describe firefighting equipment
d. Explain fire safety regulation

1) Types of fires

- Fire is a chemical reaction that requires three elements to be present or for the reaction to
take place and be sustained (continue for long time).
- The three elements are;-

❖ An ignition source/heat
❖ Fuel
❖ Oxygen

- The three elements are referred to as “FIRE TRIANGLE”.

- The ignition source may be any material, equipment or operation that emits a spark or
flame.
- Fuel involves combustible materials e.g.; - wood, cloth, paper, flammable liquids etc.
- Oxygen is readily available in the atmosphere.
- Fire can be classified under the following groups:

i. Class A fire
➢ These are fires involving ordinary combustible materials e.g.; - paper, trash, plastics,
wood and cloth/textile.
➢ Any fire that leaves behind ash is classified as a CLASS A FIRE.
➢ The fighting system for such fires involves use of water or letting it cool.

ii. Class B fire

➢ It involves flammable petroleum liquids e.g.; - oil, gasoline etc.
➢ The control/fighting system involves the exclusion of oxygen.

iii. Class C fire

➢ Involves flammable gases.
➢ The fighting system involves the exclusion of oxygen.

iv. Class D fire

➢ It involves flammable metals.
➢ A rule of thumb is that; if the name of the metal ends with letters “um” then it is a
CLASS D FIRE.
e.g.; - aluminium, magnesium, beryllium, sodium etc.
- Class D fires rarely occur in the roofing industry.

v. Class E fire
- It is major causes are electrical in context.
- The fighting system involves excluding oxygen or using electricity non-conducting
materials.

2) Methods of fire fighting

- These are the techniques of fighting fire or putting it out.
- The three major techniques for fighting fire in are:-
a. Cooling
b. Smothering
c. Starving
- Cooling is the removing of heat or the ignition element that led to the fires. When the
temperatures fall, the fire is likely to die off. Water can be used to attain such goal.
- Starving involves the removal fuel. When fuel is removed, the burning process is also
reduced.
- Smothering involves the removal of oxygen from the equation. It is mostly applicable on
solid fuel fires; that have enough oxygen within their own chemical makeup to keep the
blaze burning.

N/B;-
The other techniques for fighting fires, (which may involve bush fires or securing
buildings in forested areas from burning down due to fire break out) include:

i. Control line system.

✓ Involves creation of simple boundaries, natural or manmade, that fighters employ to
control how and when a fire spreads.
✓ Natural boundaries include; - rivers, rocky ridges etc.
✓ Manmade boundaries include; - clearing out an extended line of bush.
✓ Fire line is when the barrier is scraped down ‘to mineral soil’
✓ Scratch line is a preliminary line built in a hurry to control the fire.
✓ Wet line is when the area has had flame retardant or water applied.

ii. Burning out

✓ Includes digging of small ditches and pulling some plants to establish control lines.
✓ The pulling down of some plants may however not sufficient to curb the fire spread.
✓ In order to create a sturdy (fuel free barrier); small trenches can be used to burn the
bush inside the control line.

iii. Back burn

✓ Though similar to a burn out, it requires a sophisticated technique.
✓ Once a control line is established, a controlled blaze is set downwind of the
main fire, just on the inside of the control line.
✓ The new blaze is then pushed back toward the main fire, burning up all the
fuel that lies between the fire and the control line.

iv. Flanking
✓ Wild fire small enough to be snuffed out using a direct attack.
✓ Airplanes and helicopters can be used for such mission.

v. Hot spotting
✓ Extra attention should be given to most active and dangerous portions of wild
fires.
✓ It may involve diverting extra manpower to the task of stamping out embers
and spot fires that blow or erupt from the hottest part of the fire.

vi. Knock down

✓ Unlike hot spot which majority deals with assessment of a fire’s condition,
knocking down strategy is employed when firefighters decide that a certain
action hotspot needs to be suppressed immediately.
✓ The suppression mechanism that may be applied include; - e.g.; - use of water,
dirt retardant to that section etc.
vii. Cod trailing
✓ Is the task of combing through already scorched ground in the wake of a
spreading fire e.g.; - while a fire is attacked from the front or side, other
fighters may be involved in cold trailing.
✓ Cold trailing ensures that no hot/glowing embers remain, since leftover coals
can be blown around and flame up again.

viii. Aerial track

✓ Involves dropping of water from above on to blazes using planes or
helicopters.

ix. Fire line explosives

✓ Using of explosives to break up dense bush and fallen trees.
✓ It can also be used to clear trees whose spread might help fire jump across
control line.

x. Mop-up
✓ Consists of dousing any embers and spot fires that have made their way across
control lines.
✓ It also involves protecting still vulnerable fuels using a burnout or by simply
moving them.

3) Firefighting equipment
✓ These equipment(s) include hose reels, sprinklers, fixed and wet risers, fire
safety extinguishers.

a. Fire safety extinguishers

i. Water fire extinguishers

✓ Douses water on fire thus taking away the heat element of the fire triangle.
✓ It is applied when extinguishing Class A fires.

ii. Dry chemical fire extinguishers

✓ Extinguishes the fire by interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire triangle.
✓ Applied on Classes A, B, & C fires.

iii. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers

✓ Takes away oxygen element of the fire triangle.
✓ They also remove the heat with a cold discharge.
✓ Applied on classes B & C fires.

N/B:-
The following conditions should be observed in storage and usage of extinguishers;-
✓ In buildings all fire extinguishers should be mounted on a wall properly marked.
✓ All vehicles will carry at least one ABC – rated extinguisher.
 ✓ When at a job site, all personnel should know the location of each fire
extinguisher.
✓ Before using an extinguisher, all employees will be trained and familiarize
themselves with the PASS method of fir fighting.
✓ Each fire extinguisher should be inspected monthly to make sure it is in its
designated location and has not been tampered with or actuated.
✓ Each fire extinguisher should be clearly visible with nothing obscuring it from
view.
✓ All fire extinguishers should be examined regularly or annually to ensure
operability and safety.
✓ A tag to show the maintenance or recharge date and the details of the person doing
the service should be indicated.

b. Sprinklers
✓ Provides an automatic spray dedicated to the area of fire outbreak.
✓ Sprinkler heads have temperature sensitive elements that respond immediately
to heat, discharging the content of the water main to which they are attached.
✓ The specification of sprinkler system will depend on the purpose intended for
the building, its content, function, occupancy, size and description of the
rooms.
✓ Sprinkler installation to industrial or commercial premises may be of the
following type:-
✓ Wet system
✓ Dry system
✓ Alternative wet/dry system
✓ Tail end system
✓ Pre-action system
✓ Recycling pre-action system
✓ Cycling wet system

c. Hose reels
✓ They are used as a first aid measure by building occupants.
✓ Should be located where users are least likely to be endangered by the fire
e.g.; - staircase landing.

d. Fixed dry and wet risers

✓ Fixed dry riser is in effect an empty vertical pipe.
✓ It becomes fire fighters hose extension to supply hydrants to each level.
✓ Dry riser is installed either in unheated buildings or where the water main will
not provide sufficient pressure at the highest landing valve.
✓ On the other hand, wet risers are installed for buildings above 60metres high.
✓ Wet risers are suitable in any building where hydrant installations are
specified.
4) Fire protection and safety measures to be observed.

a. Reporting and extinguishing the fire

✓ The fire department and area supervisor should be notified when fire is
spotted.
✓ All workers should be alerted and evacuated as needed.
✓ The PASS method should be used to extinguish the fire by those employees
who have been properly trained.
❖ P - pull the pin on the extinguisher
❖ A - Aim at the base of the fire
❖ S - squeeze the handle
❖ S – sweep at the fire, move from side to side
✓ The occupants should be evacuated immediately if the fire is large.

b. Fire protection
✓ The structure’s design should be according to the laid down fire protection
standards in the building code.
✓ ‘NO – SMOKING’ signs should be posted in all regulated areas.
✓ Only approved containers should be used to store flammable or combustible
materials.
✓ All working areas should be free on debris and other combustible materials.
✓ All employees should be trained on the use of fire extinguishers initially upon
hire and later regular training should be observed.
✓ All containers should be bonded together and grounded when transferring
flammable or combustible liquids.

c. Flammable and combustible liquid storage

✓ Gasoline should not be used as a solvent for cleaning.
✓ The number of approved safety cabinet in one room/cabinet should not exceed
the expected quantity for that room.
✓ All containers should be labeled in accordance with OSHA’s Hazard
communication standards etc.

d. Handling flammable gases

✓ Placed in firm foundation and secured in an upright position.
✓ Cylinders to be equipped with valve-protection devices.
✓ Cylinders not to be stored inside buildings.
✓ When not in transport/use, the acetylene bottles should have caps in place.
✓ Health and physical hazards should be communicated to the employees before
the product is used.
TOPIC 4.: GAS SUPPLY

✓ By the end of this topic, the learner should be able to:-

a. Identify materials and tools for gas installation

b. Describe the procedure of installing gas supply system to a house
c. State safety regulations in gas supply installation

CONTENT

1. Materials and tools used in gas installation

✓ The materials and tools used in gas installation include:-
➢ Copper pipes
➢ Steel pipes
➢ Fittings and valves
➢ Poly-propylene (PPR)
➢ Hacksaw
➢ Pipe wrenches
➢ Adjustable spanner
➢ Vice
➢ Measuring
➢ Flaring tools
➢ Blow lump
➢ Poly fusion apparatus

2. Gas Supply Installation

✓ Gas supply can be through the biogas, acetylene or liquefied petroleum gas
systems.
✓ A number of means may be employed to provide a gas service pipe connection
to dwelling(s):-
i. Service entry below ground
ii. Service entry above ground
iii. Service entry below floor
iv. Service entry via metre box
v. Service entry into a garage (no more than 2m of pipe to be exposed before
connecting to the metre).

✓ Gas supply installation procedure includes the following steps:-

a. Identify if an existing gas service pipe exists

b. Decide if the metre will be sited internally or externally
c. Choose a location for the gas metre
d. Ensure the metre position is safe and complies with regulations
e. Calculate the maximum demand of the gas in Kilowatts
f. Choose a housing if the gas metre will be sited out doors
g. Pick a gas supplier
 h. Trench excavation
i. Arrange for the site access on days of work
j. Arrange for the gas installation and connection to appliances by a qualified
engineer.

3. Safety precautions
i. Gas metre should be provided with pressure governor to stabilize and regulate the
delivery pressure. That is, if the gas supply is to be taken through to different
levels of a multi-storey building.
ii. The correct amount of the supplied gas should be delivered to the appliances with
the pressure test being carried out. A simple U-tube water gauge can be used to
carry out the pressure test. The simple U-tube can also be used for testing the gas
leakages.
iii. Provide a flame failure device, which may be bi-metal type or magnetic type.

N/B;-
✓ Metre compartment should not be under the means of escape to minimize on
casualties in case of the fire break out.
✓ Gas service pipes, metres and appliances should be in naturally ventilated
spaces as dilution with outside air is the best safety precaution against
accumulation of explosive mixture of air.
✓ Gas detectors can be provided as an additional precaution against leakages.

TOPIC 5: NON FERROUS PLUMBING SYSTEM

Specific objectives

a. Identify aqua proof P. P – R PN25 plumbing system pipes, accessories and equipment
for hot and cold water supply system.
b. Describe the procedure of fixing and fitting aqua proof P. P. R PN 25 plumbing
system pipes using socketed and threaded fittings.
c. Classify uPVC drain pipes and pressure pipes using socketed and threaded fittings.
d. Classify uPVC drain pipes and pressure pipes.
e. Select uPVC tanks

a. Pipes

- The P. P – R PN25 plumbing systems can be classified as follows:

• PN 1620mm
• PN 1625mm
• PN 1632mm
• PN 1640mm
• PN 1650mm
- The required accessories include:
 i. Bends

- They found at the points where there are intersections, corners or junctions.
- The major classes of joints are: - male, female, threaded male and thread male.

ii. Tees

- They are used to join pipes either from different directions or heading to various
directions from the same centre point.
- This includes;- Reducing tees, Threaded tee, Sockets, Reduced Sockets and Cross PN20.

✓ Pressure pipes
- Class ‘B’ pressure pipes 25 – 160mm
- Class ‘C’ pressure pipes 20 – 160mm
- Class ‘D’ pressure pipes 20 – 160mm
- Class ‘E’ pressure pipe 20 – 160mm

✓ uPVC pressure pipe fittings

- The pipe fittings include elbows, tee, couplers, adaptors, thread male & female, service
saddle/clamps.

✓ Water pipes

- The water pipes are basically used for conveying water to different locations. The P. P –
R PN25 include;-
• Low grade
• High grade
• Below grade
• Ordinary grade
• Medium grade