Conduit systems serve as pathways and protection for electrical cables. Selection depends on installation location, environmental conditions, and specific project requirements.

• Rigid Steel Conduit (RSC): Heavy-duty conduit for exposed installations and areas requiring maximum protection (IS 1653)
• Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC): Similar to RSC but with thinner walls, lighter weight
• Galvanized Iron (GI) Conduit: Corrosion-resistant steel with zinc coating, suitable for most building installations
• PVC Conduit: Non-metallic, lightweight, suitable for concealed installations (IS 9537 Part 3)
• HDPE Conduit: For underground installations, high impact resistance
• Flexible Metal Conduit: For connections to motors, vibrating equipment
• Surface PVC Trunking: For multiple cables in visible routes (IS 14927)

• Measuring Tools: Measuring tape, spirit level, plumb bob
• Cutting Tools: Hacksaw, pipe cutter, PVC cutter
• Bending Tools: Conduit bender, bending spring
• Threading Tools: Pipe dies, thread cutting oil
• Marking Tools: Chalk line, pencil, marker
• Fastening Tools: Screwdrivers, pliers, spanners
• Drilling Tools: Electric drill with various bits

• Hydraulic Bender: For precise bending of larger conduits
• Core Cutting Machine: For creating holes in concrete slabs/walls
• Wire Pulling Tools: Fish tape, pull cords, cable lubricant
• Chasing Machine: For cutting wall channels for concealed wiring
• Testing Equipment: Continuity tester, insulation tester

• Safety Helmet: For protection against falling objects
• Safety Goggles: To protect eyes during cutting and drilling
• Hand Gloves: For protection during handling of materials
• Safety Shoes: With electrical insulation properties
• Dust Mask: For protection during cutting and drilling work
• Safety Harness: For working at heights

Proper planning of conduit routes is essential for efficient installation, future maintenance, and compliance with IS 4648 (Guide for electrical layout in residential buildings) and IS 732 (Code of practice for electrical wiring installations).

• Read and interpret electrical layout drawings
• Identify locations of switches, outlets, junction boxes
• Understand symbols and notations on electrical drawings
• Identify circuits and their intended loads
• Check coordination with other services (plumbing, HVAC)

• Mark main distribution board (DB) location
• Identify and mark all outlet points according to layout
• Mark horizontal and vertical conduit routes
• For concealed systems, mark on walls/floors before plastering
• Ensure routes follow prescribed patterns (vertical/horizontal only)
• Mark locations for junction boxes, pull boxes
• Get approval from supervisor before proceeding

Note: FFL = Finished Floor Level

For concealed wiring, chases (grooves) need to be cut in walls and floors to accommodate conduits before plastering. This must be done according to IS 732 guidelines and structural considerations.

• Mark chase lines on walls/floors as per approved layout
• Use chasing machine or wall cutter to cut parallel lines
• Use chisel and hammer to remove material between cuts
• Create chase depth sufficient for conduit diameter plus 5mm
• Ensure chase width allows conduit to fit without forcing
• Cut outlet boxes according to marked dimensions
• Clean chase of debris before conduit installation
• Create rounded corners at bends for smooth conduit installation

• Never chase through load-bearing elements without structural approval
• Horizontal chases should not exceed 1/3 wall thickness
• Vertical chases should not exceed 1/4 wall thickness
• Avoid chasing near corners (min. 200mm distance)
• Do not make diagonal chases (only vertical or horizontal)
• Maintain minimum 300mm distance from other service lines
• For RCC structures, coordinate chasing with structural engineer

• Measure required conduit length accurately
• Cut conduit using appropriate tool (hacksaw for metal, PVC cutter for PVC)
• Remove burrs from cuts using reamer or file
• For metal conduits, apply anti-corrosion coating at cut ends
• Thread metal conduits if required for connections
• Use thread-cutting oil for smoother threading

Proper conduit bending ensures smooth cable pulling, maintains cable capacity, and creates professional installations while following IS 732 guidelines for minimum bending radius.

• 90° Bend: Standard right-angle turn
• Offset Bend: Two opposing bends to navigate obstacles
• Saddle Bend: Three bends to go over obstacles
• Three-Point Bend: For creating U-shaped bends
• Custom Angle Bends: For specific route requirements

Conduit bending requires calculation of setbacks and understanding of "gain" or "shrinkage" to achieve accurate results.

• Metal Conduit Bending:
• Mark bend point on conduit with allowance for setback
• Insert conduit into bender, aligning mark with appropriate arrow
• Apply steady pressure to bend to desired angle
• Use degree marks on bender for accurate angles
• Check bend against drawing or template for accuracy
• PVC Conduit Bending:
• Use bending spring (internal or external type)
• Heat PVC conduit evenly using hot air gun
• Bend gradually to desired angle when pliable
• Hold in position until cool and set
• Remove bending spring carefully

• Couplers: For joining straight conduit sections
• Elbows: Factory-made bends (45°, 90° etc.)
• Junction Boxes: For cable branching points (IS 3419)
• Inspection Bends: For access to cable runs
• Saddles: For surface mounting of conduits
• Clips: For securing conduits
• Lock Nuts & Bushes: For terminating conduits
• End Caps: For temporarily sealing open ends

• Prepare chases as per earlier section
• Cut conduits to required lengths, including bends
• Join conduit sections using appropriate fittings
• For PVC conduits, use solvent cement at joints
• For metal conduits, ensure threaded connections are tight
• Install outlet boxes and junction boxes
• Secure conduits in chase using cement mortar patches
• Ensure all joints are watertight
• Install draw wire (nylon or GI wire) for later cable pulling
• Temporarily seal all conduit ends to prevent debris entry

• Mark conduit route on surface according to drawing
• Mark positions for saddles/clips (spacing as per IS 732)
• Drill holes for fixing saddles/clips
• Fix saddles/clips using appropriate fasteners
• Prepare conduit sections with necessary bends
• Install conduits in saddles/clips ensuring correct alignment
• Join conduit sections using appropriate fittings
• Mount junction boxes and outlet boxes
• Install draw wire for later cable pulling

Additional Requirements: Supports should be placed within 300mm of any junction box, bend, or termination.

Junction boxes and outlet boxes provide access points for cable connections, branching, and terminations. They are essential for maintenance and comply with IS 732 requirements.

• Junction Boxes: For cable joining and branching points
• Switch Boxes: For mounting switches and controls
• Socket Outlet Boxes: For mounting power outlets
• Ceiling Rose Boxes: For light fixture connections
• Fan Boxes: Reinforced boxes for ceiling fan mounting
• Pull Boxes: For long conduit runs to facilitate cable pulling

• For Concealed Installations:
• Cut appropriately sized opening in wall/ceiling
• Connect conduits to box using appropriate fittings
• Ensure proper alignment with finished surface
• Secure box firmly in position
• Seal around box with plaster
• For Surface Installations:
• Mark position as per drawing
• Drill holes for mounting screws
• Connect conduits to box knockouts using appropriate fittings
• Secure box to surface
• Ensure proper alignment

• All metallic boxes must be properly earthed as per IS 3043
• Maintain minimum 300mm separation from water pipes
• Junction boxes must remain accessible after installation
• Box size must accommodate the number of cables/connections
• Install protective caps on unused knockouts
• Ensure boxes are flush with finished surface (±2mm tolerance)
• For outdoor installations, use weatherproof boxes with proper IP rating

Proper preparation ensures successful cable pulling without damage to cables or conduits, in compliance with IS 732.

• Inspect entire conduit run for obstructions
• Verify conduit size is appropriate for cable quantity and size
• Calculate maximum fill percentage (40% for multiple cables as per IS 732)
• Ensure draw wire is in place throughout the conduit
• Prepare cable drum for smooth unwinding
• Calculate pulling force requirements
• Prepare lubricant for complex pulls

IS 732 specifies maximum conduit fill percentages to ensure cables are not damaged during installation and can dissipate heat during operation.

Formula: Fill % = (Sum of cable cross-sectional areas / Conduit internal cross-sectional area) × 100

• Attach cables to draw wire using pulling grip or tape
• For multiple cables, stagger the connection points
• Apply cable lubricant at entry point for easier pulling
• Pull steadily with constant force (avoid jerking)
• Have assistant feed cable to avoid kinking
• For long runs, use intermediate pulling points
• Leave sufficient slack at each end (min. 300mm)
• Label cables immediately after pulling

• Cable Jamming: Back out cables, use more lubricant, try again with less force
• Draw Wire Breaking: Insert new draw wire from nearest junction box
• Excessive Resistance: Verify conduit is not crushed or obstructed
• Damaged Cable Insulation: Inspect conduit for sharp edges or burrs
• Cable Too Short: Never splice inside conduit; replace with longer cable

Proper earthing of metallic conduit systems is essential for safety, ensuring that fault currents have a low-resistance path to ground. This is governed by IS 3043 (Code of practice for earthing) and IS 732.

• Continuous Earth: Ensure electrical continuity throughout the system
• At Distribution Boards: Connect conduit to earth terminal
• At Junction Boxes: Use earth continuity connectors
• At Outlets: Connect metal boxes to earth terminal

• Connect earth continuity conductor (min. 2.5mm² copper) to each metal box
• Ensure proper earth bonding at all metallic joints
• Use earth clamps or lugs for secure connections
• For threaded connections, ensure metal-to-metal contact
• Connect main earthing terminal to building earth electrode
• Test earth continuity with continuity tester
• Measure earth resistance (should be less than 1 ohm within system)
• Document all earth resistance readings

• Visual inspection of entire conduit system
• Verify all boxes are accessible and properly covered
• Check mechanical fixing of all components
• Verify conduit routes match approved drawings
• Ensure all cables are properly identified
• Check adequate space at termination points
• Inspect for any physical damage to conduits or cables

• Continuity Testing: Test conductors and protective conductors for continuity
• Insulation Resistance Test: Using 500V insulation tester (min. 1 MΩ)
• Earth Fault Loop Impedance Test: To verify protection operation
• Polarity Test: Ensure correct connection of switches and sockets
• RCD Operation Test: Where applicable
• Functional Test: Verify correct operation of all circuits

• As-built conduit layout drawings
• Circuit diagrams with cable sizes and types
• Test certificates for all required tests
• Material test certificates
• Earthing system test results
• Photographic evidence at critical stages
• Inspection checklists signed by qualified personnel
• Handover certificate

On-Job Training (OJT) is crucial for developing practical skills in electrical conduiting. It bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, ensuring that trainees can perform tasks efficiently, safely, and to high quality standards.

• Develops practical skills and hands-on experience.
• Enhances understanding of site-specific challenges.
• Improves problem-solving abilities in real-time scenarios.
• Reinforces safety protocols and best practices.
• Fosters teamwork and communication skills.

• Qualified Trainers: Experienced supervisors or senior electricians who can effectively demonstrate and mentor.
• Structured Curriculum: A clear plan outlining learning objectives, tasks, and assessment criteria.
• Hands-on Practice: Ample opportunities for trainees to perform tasks under supervision.
• Regular Feedback: Constructive feedback on performance, identifying areas for improvement.
• Safety Integration: Consistent emphasis on safety procedures and PPE usage throughout training.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Presenting real-world issues to encourage critical thinking and decision-making.
• Tool Proficiency: Training on proper handling, maintenance, and safe use of all relevant tools and equipment.
• IS Code Application: Practical application of relevant Indian Standards in daily tasks.

• Performance Checklists: Use checklists to evaluate practical skills and adherence to procedures.
• Skill Demonstrations: Require trainees to demonstrate proficiency in key conduiting tasks.
• Knowledge Quizzes: Short quizzes to assess understanding of theoretical concepts and IS codes.
• Incident Review: Analyze any near-misses or incidents to learn and improve safety practices.
• Trainee Feedback: Collect feedback from trainees to improve the OJT program.
• Mentor Evaluation: Regularly evaluate trainers' effectiveness and provide them with professional development.