What is the view on green goo from an EICR perspective?

Aug 18, 2023

Question:

Green Goo in a property often indicates the cabling was installed between 1965 and 1971 and higher temperatures accelerate the process. Although it does not reduce the electrical integrity of the conductor or the insulation, the green goo may affect accessories in terms of decorative finishes.

This is often rewired for these decorative reasons, however, I often see this given as a C2 despite it not affecting the conductors.

What is the viewpoint from an EICR perspective?

Answer:

It would depend on the situation, as there are so many scenarios out there.

Typically, however, this goo (a degraded di-isoctyl phthalate caused by a reaction between the insulation and the copper) is not conductive and has low levels of flamability and toxicity, therefore it would be sensible to start at a C3 classification. If the installation is experiencing extreme levels of goo or the risk is greater than you would normally expect, a C2 may be appropriate, but this would have to be carefully justified.

- Gary Parker, ECA