THE INDIAN ELECTRICITY

RULE, 1956

Submitted byJAYANT MUKERJEE

THE INDIAN ELECTRICITY RULE, 1956

CONTENT
IE Rule 3

Authorization

IE Rule 29

Construction, Installation, Protection, Operation and

Maintenance of Electrical Supply Lines and
Apparatus

IE Rule 30

Service Lines and apparatus on consumers

premises
IE Rule 31

Cut-out on consumer premises

IE Rule 32

Identification of earthed and earthed neutral

Conductors and position of switches and cut-out
Therein

IE Rule 33

Earthed terminal on consumers premises

IE Rule 34

Accessibility of bare conductors

IE Rule 35

Danger notices

IE Rule 36

handling of electric supply lines and apparatus

IE Rule 37

Supply to vehicles cranes etc.

IE Rule 38

Cables for portable or transportable apparatus

IE Rule 41

Distinction of different circuits

IE Rule 41A Distinction of the Installations having more than one

feed
IE Rule 42

Accidental charge

IE Rule 43

Provision applicable to protective equipments

IE Rule 44

Instruction for restoration of persons suffering from

electric shock

IE Rule 44A Intimation of accidents

IE Rule 45

Precautions to be adopted by consumers,

owners, occupiers, electrical contractors, electrical
workmen and suppliers

IE Rule 46

Periodical Inspection and testing of consumers

installation

IE Rule 48

Precaution against leakage before connection

IE Rule 49

Leakage on consumers premises

IE Rule 50

Supply and use of energy

IE Rule 54

Declared voltage of supply to consumer

IE Rule 55

Declared frequency of supply to consumer

IE Rule 56

Sealing of meters and cut-outs

IE Rule 60

Test for resistance of insulation

IE Rule 61

Connection with earth

IE Rule 64A Additional Provisions for use of energy at high and

extra high voltage
IE Rule 67

Connection with earth

IE Rule 70

Condensers

IE Rule 71

Additional provisions for supply to high voltage

luminous tube sign installation

IE Rule 74

Material and strength

IE Rule 75

Joints

IE Rule 76

Maximum stresses-factors of safety

IE Rule 77

Clearance above ground of lowest the conductor

IE Rule 78

Clearance between conductors and trolley wires

IE Rule 79

Clearance from buildings of low and medium voltage

lines and service lines

IE Rule 80

Clearance from buildings of high and extra high

voltage lines

IE Rule 81

Conductors at different voltages on same supports

IE Rule 82A Transporting and storing of materials near overhead

lines
IE Rule 88

Guarding

IE Rule 89

Service lines from overhead lines

IE Rule 90

Earthing (Overhead lines etc.)

IE Rule 91

Safety and protective devices

IE Rule 92

Protection against lightning

IE Rule 93

Unused overhead lines

3. Authorisation(1) A supplier or a consumer, or the owner, agent or manager of a mine, or the agent
of any company operating in an oil-field or the owner of a drilled well in an oil-field or
a contractor for the time being under contract with a supplier or a consumer to carry
out duties incidental to the generation, transformation, transmission, conversion,
distribution or use of energy may authorise any person for the purpose of any or all
of the following, namely:Sub-rule (2) of rule 36, clause (a) sub-rule (1) of rule 51, clause (a) of sub-rule (1) and
clauses (e) 2[and (f)] of sub-rule (2)] of rule 64, sub rule (2) of rule 110, sub-rules (1)
and (4) of rule 121, sub-rule (4) of rule 123, rule 124 and sub-rule (8) of rule 125.
[(2) No person shall be authorised under sub-rule (1) unless he is competent to
perform the duties assigned to him and possesses either an appropriate certificate of
competency or permit to work.]
[(2A) (a) No person shall be authorised to operate or undertake maintenance of any
part or whole of a generating station of capacity 100 MW and above together with the
associated sub-station unless he is adequately qualified and has successfully
undergone the type of training specified in Annexure XIV;
Provided that the provisions contained in this sub-rule shall have effect in respect of
the persons already authorised to operate or undertake maintenance of any part or

whole of a generating station as aforesaid from the date to be specified by the

appropriate Government, but such a date shall not be later than a period of [6 years,
2 months] from the date this rule comes into force.
(b) The appropriate Government may, on the recommendations of the owner of such
generating station, relax the conditions stipulated in clause (a) of this sub-rule for
any engineer and such other person who have already sufficient experience in the
operation and maintenance of a generating station.
(c) The owner of a generating station, in consultation with Central Electricity
Authority may alter the duration and manner of training in respect of those persons
who have been already engaged in the operation and maintenance of a generating
station or a sub-station.]
[(2B) The provisions contained in rule 3(2A) will also be applicable in respect of other
sub-stations of 132 KV and above from a date to be specified by the appropriate
Government but such a date shall not be later than 3 years from which this rule
comes into force.]
(3) No person shall be deemed to be authorised under sub-rule (1) unless his name
has been entered in a list maintained at the office or premises of the person
authorizing him, and giving the purpose for which such person is authorised and the
entry has been attested by the authorised person and the person authorising him.
(4) Every list maintained under sub-rule (3) shall be produced before an Inspector [or
any officer of a specified rank and class appointed to assist the Inspector] when
required.
(5) An Inspector may cancel or amend, in such manner as he considers necessary,
any authorisation, made under sub-rule (1).
(6) In every registered factory, where more than 250 KW of electrical load is
connected, there shall be a person authorised by the management of the factory for
ensuring the observance of the safety provisions laid under the Act and the rules
made thereunder, who shall periodically inspect such installation, get them tested
and keep a record thereof and such records shall be made available to the Inspector
[or any officer of a specified rank and class appointed to assist the Inspector, if and
when required]

29. Construction, installation, protection, operation and maintenance of

electric supply lines and apparatus(1) All electric supply lines and apparatus shall be of sufficient ratings for power,
insulation and estimated fault current and of sufficient mechanical strength, for the
duty which they may be required to perform under the environmental conditions of
installation, and shall be constructed, installed, protected, worked and maintained in
such a manner as to ensure safety of Human beings, animals and property
(2) Save as otherwise provided in these rules, the relevant code of practice of the
[Bureau of Indian Standards] '[including National Electrical Code] if any may be
followed to carry out the purposes of this rule and in the event of any inconsistency,
the provision of these rules shall prevail.
(3) The material and apparatus used shall conform to the relevant specifications of
the [Bureau of Indian Standards] where such specifications have already been laid
down.

30. Service lines and apparatus on consumer's premises(1) The supplier shall ensure that all electric supply lines, wires, fittings and
apparatus belonging to him or under his control, which are on a consumer's
premises, are in a safe condition and in all respects fit for supplying energy and the
supplier shall take due precautions to avoid danger arising on such premises from
such supply lines, wires, fittings and apparatus.
(2) Service-lines placed by the supplier on the premises of a consumer which are
underground or which are accessible shall be so insulated and protected by the
supplier as to be secured under all ordinary conditions against electrical,
mechanical, chemical or other injury to the insulation.
(3) The consumer shall, as far as circumstances permit, take precautions for the safe
custody of the equipment on his premises belonging to the supplier.
(4) The consumer shall also ensure that the installation under his control is
maintained in a safe condition.

31. Cut-out on consumer's premises-

(1) The supplier shall provide a suitable cut-out in each conductor of every serviceline other than an earthed or earthed neutral conductor or the earthed external
conductor of a concentric cable within a consumer's premises, in an accessible
position. Such cut-out shall be contained within an adequately enclosed fireproof
receptacle.
Where more than one consumer is supplied through a common service-line, each
such consumer shall be provided with an independent cut-out at the point of
junction to the common service.
(2) Every electric supply line other than the earth or earthed neutral conductor of
any system or the earthed external conductor of a concentric cable shall be protected
by a suitable cut-out by its owner.

32. Identification of earthed and earthed neutral conductors and

position of switches and cut-outs thereinWhere the conductors include an earthed conductor of a two-wire system or an
earthed neutral conductor of a multi-wire system or a conductor which is to be
connected thereto, the following conditions shall be complied with-(1) An indication of a permanent nature shall be provided by the owner of the earthed
or earthed neutral conductor, or the conductor which is to be connected thereto, to
enable such conductor to be distinguished from any live conductor. Such indication
shall be provided(a) Where the earthed or earthed neutral conductor is the property of the supplier, at
or near the point of commencement of supply:
(b) Where a conductor forming part of a consumer's system is to be connected to the
supplier's earthed or earthed neutral conductor, at the point where such connection
is to be made;
(c) In all other cases, at a point corresponding to the point of commencement of
supply or at such other points as may be approved by an Inspector or any officer
appointed to assist the Inspector and authorised under sub-rule (2) of rule 4A.
(2) No cut-out, link or switch other than a linked switch arranged to operate
simultaneously on the earthed or earthed neutral conductor and live conductors
shall be inserted or remain inserted in any earthed or earthed neutral conductor of a

two wire-system or in any earthed or earthed neutral conductor of a multi-wire

system or in any conductor connected thereto with the following exceptions: (a) A link for testing purposes, or
(b) A switch for use in controlling a generator or transformer.

33. Earthed terminal on consumer's premises(1) The supplier shall provide and maintain on the consumer's premises for the
consumer's use a suitable earthed terminal in an accessible position at or near the
point of commencement of supply as defined under rule 58.
Provided that in the case of medium, high or extra-high voltage installation the
consumer shall, in addition to the afore mentioned earthing arrangement, provide his
own earthing system with an independent electrode.
Provided further that the supplier may not provide any earthed terminal in the case
of installations already connected to his system on or before the date to be specified
by the State Government in this behalf if he is satisfied that the consumer's earthing
arrangement is efficient.
(2) The consumer shall take all reasonable precautions to prevent mechanical damage
to the earthed terminal and its lead belonging to the supplier.
(3) The supplier may recover from the consumer the cost of installation on the basis
of schedule of charges notified in advance and where such schedule of charges is not
notified, the procedure prescribed, in sub-rule (5) of rule 82 will apply.

34. Accessibility of bare conductorsWhere bare conductors are used in a building, the owner of such conductors shall(a) Ensure that they are inaccessible:
(b) Provide in readily accessible position switches for rendering them dead whenever
necessary; and

(c) Take such other safety measures as are considered necessary by the Inspector.

35. Danger NoticesThe owner of every medium, high and extra-high voltage installation shall affix
permanently in a conspicuous position a danger notice in Hindi or English and the
local language of the district, with a sign of skull and bones '[of a design as per the
relevant ISS No. 2551] on(a) Every motor, generator, transformer and other electrical plant and equipment
together with apparatus used for controlling or regulating the same;
(b) All supports of high and extra-high voltage overhead lines which can be easily
climb-upon without the aid of ladder or special appliances;
Explanation-- Rails, tubular poles, wooden supports, reinforced cement concrete
poles without steps. I-sections and channels shall be deemed as supports which
cannot be easily climbed upon for the purposes of this clause.
(c) Luminous tube sign requiring high voltage supply. X-ray and similar highfrequency installations;
Provided that where it is not possible to affix such notices on any generator, motor
transformer of other apparatus, they shall be affixed as near as possible thereto: or
the word 'danger' and the voltage of the apparatus concerned shall be permanently
painted on it.
Provided further that where the generator, motor, transformer of other apparatus is
within an enclosure one notice affixed to the said enclosure shall be sufficient for the
purposes of this rule.

36. Handling of electric supply lines and apparatus(1) Before any conductor or apparatus is handled adequate precautions shall be
taken, by earthing or other suitable means, to discharge electrically such conductor
or apparatus, and any adjacent conductor or apparatus if there is danger therefrom.
and to prevent any conductor or apparatus from being accidentally or inadvertently
electrically charged when persons are working thereon.

Every person who is working on an electric supply line or apparatus or both shall be
provided with tools and devices such as gloves, rubber shoes, safety belts, ladders,
earthing devices. Helmets, line testers, hand lines and the like for protecting him
from mechanical and electrical injury. Such tools and devices shall always be
maintained in sound and efficient working conditions:
(2) No person shall work on any live electric supply line or apparatus and no person
shall assist such person on such work, unless he is authorised in that behalf, and
takes the safety measures approved by the Inspector.
(3) Every telecommunication line on supports carrying a high or extra-high voltage
line shall, for the purpose of working thereon, be deemed to be a high voltage line.

37. Supply to vehicles, cranes, etc.

Every person owning a vehicle, travelling crane or the like to which energy is supplied
from an external source shall ensure that it is efficiently controlled by a suitable
switch enabling all voltage to be cut off in one operation and, where such vehicle,
travelling crane or the like runs on metal rails, the owner shall ensure that the rails
are electrically continuous and earthed.

38. Cables for portable or transportable apparatus (1) Flexible cables shall not be used for portable or transportable motors, generators,
transformer rectifiers, electric drills, electric sprayers, welding sets or any other
portable or transportable apparatus unless they are heavily insulated and adequately
protected from mechanical injury.
(2) Where the protection is by means of metallic covering, the covering shall be in
metallic connection with the frame of any such apparatus and earth.
(3) The cables shall be three core type and four-core type for portable and
transportable apparatus working on single phase and three phases supply
respectively and the wire meant to be used for ground connection shall be easily
identifiable.

41. Distinction of different circuitsThe owner of every generating station, sub-station, junction-box or pillar in which
there are any circuits or apparatus, whether intended for operation at different
voltages or at the same voltage, shall ensure by means of indication of a permanent
nature that the respective circuits are readily distinguishable from one another.

41A. Distinction of the installations having more than one feedThe owner of the every installation including sub-station, double pole structure, four
pole structure or any other structure having more than one feed, shall ensure by
means of indication of a permanent nature, that the installation is readily
distinguishable from other installations

42. Accidental chargeThe owners of all circuits and apparatus shall so arrange them that there shall be no
danger of any part thereof becoming accidentally charged to any voltage beyond the
limits of voltage for which they are intended.
Where A.C. and D.C. circuits are installed on the same support they shall be so
arranged and protected that they shall not come into contact with each other when
live.

43. Provisions applicable to protective equipment(1) Fire buckets filled with clean dry sand and ready for immediate use for
extinguishing fires, in addition to fire extinguishers suitable for dealing with electric
fires, shall be conspicuously marked and kept in all generating stations, enclosed
sub-stations and switch stations in convenient situation.
The fire extinguishers shall be tested for satisfactory operation at least once a year
and record of such tests shall be maintained.

(2) First-aid boxes or cupboards. conspicuously marked and equipped with such
contents as the State Government may specify, shall be provided and maintained in
every generating station, enclosed sub-station and enclosed switch station so as to be
readily accessible during all working hours. All such boxes and cupboards shall,
except in the case of unattended sub-stations and switch stations, be kept in charge
of responsible persons who are trained in first-aid treatment and one of such person
shall be available during working hours.
(3) Two or more gas masks shall be provided conspicuously and installed and
maintained at accessible places in every generating station with capacity of 5 MW
and above and enclosed sub-station with transformation capacity of 5 MVA and above
for use in the event of fire or smoke.
Provide that where more than one generator with capacity of 5 MW and above is
installed in a power station, each generator would be provided with at least two
separate gas masks in accessible and conspicuous position.
Provided further that adequate number of gas masks would be provided by the owner
of every generating station and enclosed sub-station with capacity less than 5MW
and 5MVA respectively, if so desired by the Inspector.

44. Instructions for restoration of persons suffering from electric shock(1) Instructions, in English or Hindi and the local language of the district and where
Hindi is the local language, in English and Hindi for the restoration of persons
suffering from electric shock, shall be affixed by the owner in a conspicuous place in
every generating station, enclosed sub-station, enclosed switch-station and in every
factory as defined in clause (m) of section 2 of the Factories Act, 1948 (63 of 1948) in
which electricity is used and in such other premises where electricity is used as the
Inspector or any officer appointed to assist the Inspector may. by notice in writing
served on the owner, direct.
(2) Copies of the instructions shall be supplied on demand by an officer or officers
appointed by the Central or the State Government in this behalf at a price to be fixed
by the Central or the State Government.
(3) The owner of every generating station, enclosed sub-station, enclosed switchstation and every factory or other premises to which this rule applies, shall ensure

that all authorised persons employed by him are acquainted with and are competent
to apply the instructions referred to in sub-rule (1).
(4) In every manned high voltage or extra-high voltage generating station, sub-station
or switch station, an artificial respirator shall be provided and kept in good working
condition.

44A. Intimation of AccidentIf any accident occurs in connection with the generation, transmission, supply or use
of energy in or in connection with, any part of the electric supply lines or other works
of any person and the accident results in or is likely to have resulted in loss of
human or animal life or in any injury to a human being or an animal, such person or
any authorised person of the State Electricity Board/Supplier, not below the rank of
a Junior Engineer or equivalent shall send to the Inspector a telegraphic report
within 24 hours of the knowledge of the occurrence of the fatal accident and a
written report in the form set out in Annexure XIII within 48 hours of the knowledge
of occurrence of fatal and all other accidents. Where practicable a telephonic message
should also be given to the Inspector immediately the accident comes to the
knowledge of the authorised officer of the State Electricity Board/ Supplier or other
person concerned.

45. Precautions to be adopted by consumers [owners occupiers],

electrical contractors. electrical workmen and suppliers(1) No electrical installation work, including additions, alterations, repairs and
adjustments to existing installations, except such replacement of lamps, fans, fuses,
switches, low voltage domestic appliances and fittings as in no way alters its capacity
or character, shall be carried out upon the premises of or on behalf of any [consumer,
supplier, owner or occupier] for the purpose of supply to such [consumer, supplier,
owner or occupier] except by an electrical contractor licensed in this behalf by the
State Government and under the direct supervision of a person holding a certificate
of competency and by a person holding a permit issued or recognised by the State
Government.

Provided that in the case of works executed for or on behalf of the Central
Government and in the case of installations in mines, oil fields and railways, the
Central Government and in other cases the State Government may. by notification in
the Official Gazette, exempt, on such conditions as it may impose, any such work
described therein either generally or in the case of any specified class of (consumers.
suppliers, owners or occupiers) from so much of this sub-rule as requires such work
to be carried out by an electrical contractor licensed by the State Government in this
behalf.
[(2) No electrical installation work which has been carried out in contravention of
sub-rule (1) shall either be energised or connected to the works of any supplier.]

46. Periodical inspection and testing of consumer's installation. (1) (a) Where an installation is already connected to the supply system of the supplier,
every such installation shall be periodically inspected and tested at intervals not
exceeding five years either by the Inspector or any officer appointed to assist the
Inspector or by the supplier as may be directed by the State Government in this
behalf or in the case of installations belonging to, or under the control of the Central
Government, and in the case of installation in mines, oilfields and railways by the
Central Government.
(b) Where the supplier is directed by the Central or the State Government as the case
may be to inspect and test the installation he shall report on the condition of the
installation to the consumer concerned in a form approved by the Inspector and shall
submit a copy of such report to the Inspector or to any officer appointed to assist the
Inspector and authorised under sub-rule (2) of rule 4A.
(c) Subject to the approval of the Inspector, the forms of inspection report contained
in Annexure IX-A may, with such variations as the circumstances of each case
require, be used for the purposes of this sub-rule.
(2) (a) The fees for such inspection and test shall be determined by the Central or the
State Government, as the case may be, in the case of each class of consumers and
shall be payable by the consumer in advance.
(b) In the even it of the failure of any consumer to pay the fees on or before the date
specified in the fee-notice, supply to the installation of such consumer shall be liable
to be disconnected under the direction of the Inspector. Suchdisconnection, however,

shall not be made by the supplier without giving to the consumer seven clear days'
notice in writing of his intention so to do.
(c) In the event of the failure of the owner of any installation to rectify the defects in
his installation pointed out by the Inspector or by any officer appointed to assist him
and authorised under sub-rule (2) of rule 4A in the form set out in Annexure IX and
within the time indicated therein, such installation shall be liable to be disconnected
[under the directions of the Inspector] after serving the owner of such installation
with a notice.
Provided that the installation shall not be disconnected in case an appeal in made
under rule 6 and the appellate authority has stayed the orders of disconnection.
Provided further that the time indicated in the notice shall not be less than 48 hours
in any case.
Provided also that nothing contained in this clause shall have any effect on the
application of rule 49.
(3) Notwithstanding the provisions of this rule, the consumer shall at all times be
solely responsible for the maintenance of his installation in such condition as to be
free from danger.

48. Precautions against leakage before connection(1) The supplier shall not connect with his works the installation or apparatus on the
premises of any applicant for supply unless he is reasonably satisfied that the
connection will not at the time of making the connection cause a leakage from that
installation or apparatus of a magnitude detrimental to safety. Compliance with this
rule shall be checked by measuring the insulation resistance as provided below:
(i) High Voltage Equipments installations(a) High Voltage equipments shall have the IR value as stipulated in the relevant
Indian Standard.
(b) At a pressure of 1000 V applied between each live conductor and earth for a
period of one minute the insulation resistance of HV installations shall be at least 1
Mega ohm or as specified by the '[Bureau of Indian Standards] from time to time.

(ii) Medium and Low Voltage Installations- At a pressure of 500 V applied between
each live conductor and earth for a period of one minute. the insulation resistance of
medium and low voltage installations shall be at least 1 Mega ohm or as specified by
the [Bureau of Indian Standards] from time to time.]
(2) If the supplier declines to make a connection under the provisions of sub-rule (1),
he shall serve upon the applicant a notice in writing stating his reason for so
declining.

49. Leakage on consumer's premises(1) If the Inspector or any officer appointed to assist the Inspector and authorised
under sub-rule (2) of rule 4A or the supplier had reason to believe that there is in the
system of a consumer leakage which is likely to affect injuriously the use of energy by
the supplier or by other persons, or which is likely to cause danger, he may give the
consumer reasonable notice in writing that he desires to inspect and test the
consumer's installation.
(2) If on such notice being given(a) The consumer does not give all reasonable facilities for inspection and testing of
his installation, or
[(b) When an insulation resistance at the consumer's installation is so low as to
prevent safe use of energy.]
The supplier may. and if directed so to do by the Inspector shall discontinue the
supply of energy to the installation but only after giving to the consumer 48 hours
notice in writing of disconnection of supply and shall not recommence the supply
until he or the Inspector is satisfied that the cause of the leakage has been removed.]

50. Supply and use of energy(1) The energy shall not be supplied, transformed, converted or used or continued
to be supplied, transformed, converted or used unless provisions as set out
below are observed:(a) The following controls of requisite capacity to carry and break the current

(b) are placed after the point or commencement or supply as defined in rule 58
so as to be readily accessible and capable or being easily operated to
completely isolate the supply to the installation such equipment being in
addition to any equipment installed tor controlling individual circuits or
apparatus.
(i) A linked switch with fuse(s) or a circuit breaker by low and medium
voltage consumers
(ii) A linked switch with 1use(s) or a circuit breaker by HV consumers
having aggregate installed transformer/apparatus capacity up to mom KVA
to be supplied at voltage upto 11 KV and 2500 KVA at higher -voltages
(above 11 KV and not exceeding 33 KV).
(iii) A circuit breaker by HV consumers having an aggregate installed
transformer/apparatus capacity above 1000 KVA and supplied at 11 KV
and above 2500 KVA supplied at higher voltages (above 11 KV and not
exceeding 33 KV).
(iv) A circuit breaker by EHV consumer
Provided that where the point of commencement of supply and the
consumer apparatus are near each other one linked switch with fuse(s) or
circuit breaker near the point of commencement of supply as required by
this clause shall be considered sufficient tor the purpose for this rule,
(b) In case or every transformer the following shall be provided (l) On primary side for transformers a linked switch with fuse(s) or circuit
Breaker of adequate capacity:
Provided that the linked switch on the primary side of the transformer may
be of such capacity as to carry the full load current and to break only the
magnetising current or the transformer.
Provided further that far transformers of capacity 5000 KVA and above a
circuit breaker shall be voided.
Provided further that the provision ci linked switch on the primary side M
the transformer shall not apply to the unit auxiliary transformer of the
generator
(ii) On the secondary side at transformer or capacity 100 KVA and above

Transforming HV to MV or LV4 a linked switch with fuses or circuit breaker

or adequate cooed capable of carrying and breaking full load current and
for transformers transforrming HV to EHV as the case may be, a circuit
breaker

(2) Provided that where the transformer capacity exceeds 630 KVA a circuit
breaker or adequate capacity shall be instated on the secondary side,

(3)
(4) (c) Except in the case of composite control gear designed as a unit distinct
(5) circuit is protected against excess energy by means or suitable cut out or a
circuit breaker of adequate breaking capacity suitably located and, so
constructed as to prevent danger from overheating, arcing or scattering of hot
metal when it comes into operation and to permit for ready renewal DI the
Visible metal of the cut-out without danger.

(6)
(7) (a) The supply to energy or each motor or a group or motors or other apparatus
meant tor operating one particular machine is controlled by a suitable linked
switch or a circuit breaker or an emergency tripping device with manual reset
or requisite capacity placed in such a position as to be adjacent to the motor or
a group of motors or other apparatus readily accessible to and easily operated
by the person incharge and so connected in the circuit that by is means all
supply or energy can be cut oil from the motor or group of motors or apparatus
from any regulating switch, resistance of other device associated therewith.

(8)
(9) (9) All insulating materials are chosen with special regard to the circumstances
(10)
or its proposed use and their mechanical strength is sufficient tor its
purpose and so for as is practicable or such a character or so protected as to
maintain
(11)
adequately its insulating property under all working conditions in
respect or
(12)
Temperature and moisture: and to Adequate precautions shall be taken
to ensure that no live parts are so exposed as to cause danger.
(13)
(14)
(2) Where energy is being sublimed. Transformed. convened or used the
[consumer, supplier or the owner] of the conveyed installation shall be
responsible for the continuous observance of the provisions of subrule (l) in
Respect or his installations.
(15)

(16)

(3; Every consumer shall use all reasonable mean to ensure that where

energy
(17)
is supplied by a supplier no person other than the supplier shall
intervene with the service lines and apparatus placed by the supplier on the
premises of the consumer.

1
Before making an application for commencement of supply or recommencement of
supply after an installation has been disconnected for a period of six months or more the
owner/occupier of a multi-storied building shall give not less than 30 days notice in
writing to the Inspector together with particulars. The supply of energy shall not be
commenced or recommenced within this period, without the approval or otherwise in
writing of the Inspector.
2
The supplier/owner of the installation shall provide at the point of commencement
of supply a suitable isolating device with cut out or breaker to operate on all phases
except neutral in the 3 phase 4 wire circuit and fixed in a conspicuous position at not
more than 2.75 meters above the ground so as to completely isolate the supply to the
building in case of emergency.
3
The owner/occupier of a multi-storied building shall ensure that electrical
installations/works inside the building are carried out and maintained in such a manner
as to prevent danger due to shock and fire hazards' and the installation is carried out in
accordance with the relevant codes of practices.
4
No other service pipes shall be taken along the ducts provided for laying power
cables. All ducts provided for power cables and other services shall be provided with firebarrier at each floor crossing.]

54. Declared voltage of supply to consumer:Except with the written consent of the consumer or with the previous sanction of the
State Government a supplier shall not permit the voltage at the point of commencement
of supply as defined under rule 58 to vary from the declared voltagei

In the case of low or medium voltage, by more than 6 per cent, or;

ii
In the case of high voltage, by more than 6 per cent on the higher side or by more
than 9 per cent on the lower side, or;
iii
In the case of extra-high voltage, by more than 10 per cent on the higher side or by
more than 12.5 per cent on the lower side.

55. Declared frequency of supply to consumerExcept with the written consent of the consumer or with the previous sanction of the
State Government a supplier shall not permit the frequency of an alternating current
supply to vary from the declared frequency by more than 3 per cent.

56. Sealing of meters, and cut-outs(1) A supplier may affix one or more seals to any cut-out and to any meter, maximum
demand indicator, or other apparatus placed upon a consumer's premises in accordance
with section 26. and no person other than the supplier shall break any such seal. Let
Before marking an application for commencement of supply or Recommencement or
supply after an reinstallation has been connected for a Period of Six months or more the
owner-occupier cl a multl-storeyed building shall Five not less than a days notice in
warranty to the Inspector together with Particulars the supply or energy shall not be
commensed or recommened within. This period, without the approval or othervise in
writing other inspector.
(2) the supplier-owner or the lnstallatlon shall provide at the point at
Commencement of supply a suitable isolating device with cut our or breaker to
Operate on all phases accept neutral in the 3 phase 4 wire cut out and fixed in a
Conspicuous position at not more than 2.75 meters above the ground so as to
Completely isolate the supply to the pulling in case of emergency.
(ii) The owner/occupier or a multistoried building shall ensure that electrical
Installations/works inside the building are carried out and maintained in such a
Manner as to prevent danger due to shock and fire hazardsand the installation is
Cameo out in accordance with the relevant codes (4; No other sen/lee plpes shall be
taken along the ducts provided lor laying
Power cables all ducts provided for power cables and other sent/Ices shall be
Provided will needbanner at each floor crossing]

64A. Additional provisions for use of energy at min and extra-high

voltageThe following additional pro sons snail one observed where energy at night or extraNigh voltage less supplied. Convened. transferred or used. Normally:

ll) Inlet-locks sellable linter-locks small be provided in me following cases -

la) lsobars and me controling clrcuit preachers small be lnlerlccked so man the
isolators can one operated unless me corresponding breaker less In open position

(b) Lsobars and me corresponding earning switches shall be lnterlocked so

That no earthling sonic cans one closed unless and null line corresponding isolator
less
In peen postils:

(e) Where M0 or mere supplies are not intended to be operated in parallel. Line
Respective official breakers or linked switches controlling the supplies small be miserlacked lo prevent posslbility of army irladvenerll parallellng or leedback:

(d) When me or more lransicrrrlers are operaled in parallel. lire syslern srlall
pe so arranged as re mp me seoondary breaker oi a lranslormer In case lne
primary bveaker cl lnal lransicrrner lrlps;

(e) All gales or doors wnlcn give access cc llve pans oi an lnslallaucn shall be
lrller-lacked ln such a way that mese cannol be opened unless me live pans are
made dead. Proper dlscnarglng and earlnlno oi lnese pans snould one ensured
oelere any person comes In close proximity or such pans;

in where two or more generalors operate In parallel and neulral swllolrlng ls

adopted. inlerloek shall be provided to ensure that genelalor breakev cannot be
closed unless one onlre neutrals ls conneeled lo me eanhlng syslem

(2) l=rolemlcn- All syslerns and clrcurls snail be so prciecied as to amomatlcally

dlsccnnecl lhe supply under abnormal carldlliorls. The iollowlrlg prclealorl snall
oe pmvlded. namely: -

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)

over current proleclmn to dlsoonned the supply aummattcally it the rated

current or the equipment. cable or supply line is exceeded tor a time which the
equipment, cable or supply line is not designed to withstand
(b) Earlti-fault/earth leakage protection to disconnect the supply automatically

if
(f) the earth fault current exceeds the limit or current tor keeping the contact
potential
(g) within the reasonable wilues.
(h)
(i) (C) Gas pressure type protection to given alarm and tripping shall be provided
(j) on all translormers ot ratings 1000 KVA and above,
(k)
(l) (d) Traristormers 01 capacity 10 MVA and above shall be protected against
(m) incipient vaults by diwereritial protection. and
(n)
(o) (e) All generators with rating oi 100 KVA and above snail be protected against
(p) earth fault/leakage All generators at rallng iunul<vA and aoove shall be
(q) protected against taults within the generator winding uslng restricted earth
tault prutectlun ur dirrererrtial pmtecllnn or by both.

67 Connection with earth(1) AH non-current carrylrig metal parts associated with HV/EHV installation
shall be ettectively earlhed to a grounding system or mat which will
(2) Limit the touch and step potential to toleraole values
(bl Limit the ground Dclenllal rise to tolerable values so as to preverit danger
due to trarisler or potential through ground earth wires, cables sheath ferlcfisu
pipe lines. etc .
(c) Maintain the resistance or the earrtr nonnecllnn to such a value as to make

operation ol the protective device etteclive.(IA) ln the case ol slarcorlrlecled

system with earttied neutrals or delta connected system Wllh eartiied afllflclal
neutral pci

(a) The neutral point oi every generator and transloriner shall oe earthed by
(b) connecting it to the earthing system as defined in rule 61(4) and
hereinaoove by not less than two separate and distinct connections,
Pm/lded that the neutral point or a generator may be connected to the
earttiing

(c) system through an impedance to limit the vault currem to the earth:
(d)

(e) Provided luhher that in the case ol multi-machine system neutral switching
may be resorted lo. for limiting the injurious eiiect oi harmonic current
circulation in the system.
(f)

(g) (b) in the event oi an awredable harmonic current ilowing in the neutral
(h) onnection so as to cause intenerence, with communication circuits. the
generator or transiorrner neutral. shall be earthed through a suitable
impedance.
(i)

(j) (c) in case oi the delta connected system the neutral point shall be obtained
by

(k) the insenlon at a gvourldlng transiorrner and current limiting resistance or

(l) impedance wherever considered necessary at the commencement at such a
(m) system.]
(n)

(o) (2) single-phase high or extra-high voltage systems shall be eartheo in a

(p) manner approved by the Inspector
(q)

(r) (3) in the case oi a system comprising electric supbly lines having
concentric

(s) cables, the external conductor shall be the one to be connected with earth
(t)

(u) (4) where a supplier proposes to connected with earth an existing system
tor

(v) use at high or extra-high voltage which has not hitherto been so connected
with earth he shall give not less than ioui-teen days notice in writing

together with particulars to the telegraphauthority oi the proposed

connection with earth.
(w)

(x) (at where the canning lead and earth wrlnediorl are used only in
(y) connection with earthing guards erected under high or extra-high voltage
overhead lines where they cross a telecommunication line or a railway line,
and where such lines are equipped with eanh leakage relays oi a type and
setting approved by the inspector. the resistance shall not exceed 25 ohms.
(z)

(aa)

lb) Every earthino system belonging to either the suphlier or the

consumer

(ab)

shall he tested tor its resistance to eanh on a dry day during dry season

not less than once a year Records or such tests shall be maintained and
shall be

(ac)

produced, ii required oetore the inspector or any oiiicer appointed to

assist him and authorised under sub-rule (2) oi rule 4A

(ad)

(ae)

(6) in so tar as the provisions or rule 61 are consistent with the

provisions or

(af)

this rule, all connections with eanh shall also comply with the

provisions of that rule.

(ag)

70. Condensers

suitahle provision shall be made for immediate and automatic

discharge of every static condenser on disconriemion of supply

71 Additional provisions tor supply to high voltage luminous

tube sign installation
(1) Any person who proposes to use or who is using energy tor the purpose
of operating a luminous lube sign installation or who proposes to transtonn
or who is transforming energy to a high voltage ior any such purpose shall
comply with the follcwing condition .

(a )All live pans of the installation (including all apparatus and live
conductors In the secondary circuit, out excluding tubes except in the
neighbourhood of their termlnals) shall be iriacpessiple Io unauthonsed
persons and such pans shall be eiiectively screened.
(b) irrespective oi the method oi obtaining the voltage or the circuit which
reeds the luminous discharge tube sign, no pan of any conductor or such
circuit shall be in metallic connection (except in respect oi its connection
with earlrl) with any conductor oi the supply system or with the primary
winding or the transronner
(cl All live parts or an exterior installation shall oe so disposed as to protect
them against the ertecls or the weather and such installation shell be so
arranged and separated irom the surroundings as to limit, as iar as
Possible, the spreading or tire
(d) The secondary circuit shall be permanently eat-thed at the transiormer
and the core or every transiormer shall be eaitned.
(e) where the conductors or the primary circuit are not in metallic
connection with the supply conductors ie.g., where a motor-generator or a
double-wound convenor is used). one phase oi such primary circuit shall
be permanently earthed at the molar generator or oorivenori or at the
transformer
(f )An earth leakage circuit breaker or surficlent rating shall he provided on
the low voltage side to detect the leakage In such luminous lube sign
installations]
A null sup-circuit which iorrns the primary circuit or a med luminous
discharge tube sign installation shall be reserved solely tor such purpose
(g) A separate primary hnal suh-circuit shall he provided tor each
transformer or each group at transioriners having an aggregate input not
exceeding mun volt arnperes, or a fixed lurninous-discharge lube sign
installation

(h) An interior installation shall be provided wim suitable adjacent means lor

disconnecting all phases oi the supply except the rlemral" in a threephase tour
wire circuit.

(ii) For Installations on the exterior of a building a suitable emergency fire-proof

Linked switch to operate on all phases except the neutral in a three phase four wires
circuit shall be provided and fixed in a conspicuous position at not more than 2.75
metres above the ground

(it A special caution" notice shall be affixed in a conspicuous place on the

door of every high voltage enclosure to the effect that the low voltage supply must
be cut 091 before the enclosure is opened.

(k) where static condensers are used} they shall be installed on the load side
at the tubes and the primary (low voltage) side of the transformers

(1) where static condensers are used on primary side, means shall be
provided for automatically discharging the condensers when the supply is out off;

Provided that static condensers or any circuit interrupting devices on the high or
extrahigh voltage side shall not be used without the approval in writing of the
inspector.

(2) The owner or user of any luminous tube sign or similar high voltage
installation shall not owing the same into use without giving to the inspector not

less than 14 days notice in writing of his intention so to do

(i) All conductors to overhead lines other than those specified in set>rule (1) to
rule 36 shall have a breaking strength at not less than 350 kg

(2; Where the voltage is low and the span is at less than 15 meters and is on
the owners or consumers premises. a conductor having an actual breaking
strength u! not less than 150 Kg may be used

75. JointsJoints between conductors or overhead lines shall be mechanically

and electrically secure under the conditions at operation. The ultimate strength of
the Joint shall not be less than 95 per cent of that at the conductor, and the
electrical conductivity not less than that or the conductor.

76. Maximum stresses: Factors of safety-

The minimum factors of safety shall be based on such load as would cause failure
Or the subvert to Perform its function (assuming that the foundation and other
components of the structure are intact).

The aforesaid load shall be

(i) Equivalent to the yield point stress or the modulus or rupture. as the case
May he, tor supports suspect to bending and vertical loads, the overlapping load for
supports used struts.

The sole owner shall also ensure that the strength 01 the supports in the direction
at the line is not less than one-fourth of the strength required In the director
transverse to the line Pml/med that in the case of latticed steel or other oorrrpound
structures. factors of safety shall not be less than 1 5 under such broken wire
mndltlons as may be specified by the state Government in this behalf to) The
rmmmurn racist or safety to stay-wires, guardwires or bearer wires shall be 2 5
based on the ultimate tensile strength or the Were

(c) The minimum factor di safety tor conductors shall he 2. based on their
ultimate (ensile strength In addllioh, the conductors treason at 32C, without
external load, shall not exceed the following percentages of the ultimate tensile
strength of the conductor -

initial unloaded tension 35 per cent

Final unloaded tension 25 per cent,

Provided that if the case of conductors having a cross section or a generally

Triangular shape, such as conductors composed of 3wires, the final unloaded
Tension at 321: shall not exceed so per cent at the strength of such
Conductor.

(2) For the purpose at calculating the actors of safety prescribed in suprule (l)

(a) The maximum wind pressure shall be such as the state sevemrnent may
specify in each case:

(b) For cylindrical bodies the effective area shall be taken as Iwothirds of the
Preceded area exposed to wind pressure:
(c) For lamed steel or other campourld structures the wind pressure on the lee
Side members shall be taken as one-half of the wind pressure on the windward
sores members and the lectures of safety shall be calculated on the crlppllrlg load or
struts and upon the elastic limit oflerlslcrl members, for the maximum and minimum
temperatures shall be such as the state
Government may specify in each case

(3) Nmwlmslandlng anything conlalned In subvu|es (1) and tzl, In locallttes

where overhead lines are Ilable to accumulations of ice or snow the state
Government may, by order ln wntmg. specrry the loadlng condlllons for the
purpose at calculallng the vector or salety.

77. Clearance above ground olthe lowest conductor-

(1) No conductor of an overhead line, including service lines erected across a

street shall at any part thereof be at a height of less than-

(at For low and medium voltage lines

5.8 metres

(b) For high voltage lines

6.1 metres

(2) No conductor of an overhead Iine, including service lines, erected along

any street shall at any part thereof be at a height less than

(a) For low and medium voltage lines

5.5 metres

(b) For high voltage lines

5.8 metres

(3) No conductor of in overhead line including service lines, erected

elsewhere than along or across any sheet shall be at a height less than

(a) For low, medium and high voltages lines 4.6 metres
upto and including 11,000 volts, if here
(b) For low, medium and high voltage

lines upto and Including 11,000 volts, lf lnsulated 4.0 metres

(c) For high voltage lines above 11,000 volts

5.2 metres

(4) Far extra-high voltage lines the clearance above gmund shall not be less
than 5.2 metres plus 0 3 metre lor every 33,000 volts or part thereol by which the

voltage at the llne exceeds a3,uoo volts.

Pmvided that the mmlmum clearance along or across any street shall not be less
than 6.1 metres.

78. Clearance between conductors and trolley wires-

[(1)] No conductor of an overhead line crossing a tramway or trolley bus route

using trolley wires shall have less than the loilowing clearances above and trolley
wire-

(i) Low and medium voltage lines 1.2 metres.

Provided that where an insulated conductor suspended from a bearer wire crosses
over a trolley wire the minimum clearance for such insulated conductor shall be 0.6
metre.

(b) High voltage lines up to and including 11,000 volts 1.8 meters
High voltage lines above 110000 volts

2.5 metres

Extra-high voltage lines

3.0 metres

(2) in any case at a crasslng reterred to in sub-rule (1), whoever lays his line
later in time. shall provide the clearance between his own line and the line which
will be crossed in accordance with the provisions at said sub-rule.

Provided that it the later entrant is the owner or the lower line and is not able to
pmvide adequate clearance, he should bear the cost oi modification oithe upper
line so as to comply with this rule.]

79. clearances irom buildings of low and medium voltage lines and
service lines-

(1) where a low or medium voltage, overhead line passes above or adiacent to or
terminates on any building, the following minimum clearances tram any
Accessible poll. On the basis of maximum sag. Shall be observed-

(a) For any flat roof, open balcony. verandah roof and lean-toroof

(i) when the line passes above the building a vertical clearance at 2.5
metres trom the highest point. and

(ii) when the line passes aoiaoent to the building a horizontal clearance of 1.2
metres lroni the nearest point. and

(a) For pitched roof

(i) When the line passes above the building a vertical clearance of 2.5
metres immediately under the lines, and

(ii) When the line passes adjacent to the building a horizontal clearance of 1.2
metres

A Clearances horn buildings at high and extra-high voltage lines-

(1) Where a high or extrahigh voltage overhead line passes above or

to any building or part of a building it shall have on the oasis at

maximum sag a vertical clearance above the highest pan of the building
Immediately under such line, or not less than-

(a) For high voltage lines upto and 37 meters

Including 330000 volts

(b) For extrahigh voltage lines 3.7 meters plus 0.30 metre
For every additional 33,000
VOHS or van thereof at the horizontal clearance between the nearest conductor and
any part 0! such building shall, on the oasis of maximum deflection due to wind
pressure, he not less than-For high voltage lines up to and 12metres including
11,000 volt

91. Safety and protective devices-

(1) Every overhead line, not being suspended on a dead beaver wire and
not oilrig covered with insulating material and not being a trolley-wire) erected

over any pan or street or other public place or in any factory or mine or on any
Consumers premises shall be protected with a device approved by the inspector
For rendering the line electrically harmless in case it breaks

(2) An inspector may by routine in writing require the owner at any such
overhead line wherever it may be erected to protect it in the manner specified in
subrule initial The owner of every high and extra-high voltage overhead line shall
make adequate arrangements to the satisfaction of the Inspector to prevent
unauthorized persons from ascending any of the supports of such overhead lines
Which can be easily climbed upon without the help of a ladder or special
appliances. Ralls reinforced cement concrete poles and possessed cement
concrete poles without steps. Tubular poles. Wooden supports without steps, I
Sections and channels shall be deemed as supports which cannot be easily
clinked upon tor the purpose this rule]

92. Protection against lightning-

(1) The owner or every overhead line '[, sub-station or generating station]
Which is so exposed as to be liable to injury grown lightning shall adopt eminent
Means tor diverting to earth any electrical surges due to lightning. The earthling lead
to any lightning arrester shall not pass through any iron or steel pipe, out shall he
talent as directly as possible from the lightning arrestor to a separate earth electrode
and for function of the earth at already provided fur me mg and extra-high voyage
sub-station subject the avoidance unbends wherever pracucanle

93. Unused overhead lines

Where an overhead line ceases to be used as a hectic supply line, the owner snafu
martin wt. m a safe mechanical pendulum in accordance whip rule 76 snag remove.
42) Where any overhead line oases to be used as an electric sup my line, an
Inspector may, by a noose .n writing served on the owner, require nun to mammal
N m a safe mechanical condemn or: 0 remove u woman men days of me receipt
One notice.