Ducts or Exposed cabling ?

[nic]

Hi

Can someone with a copy AS3000 please tell me when electrical cabling is supposed to be enclosed in ducting and when it can be installed exposed ?
From what I understand it should be enclosed in outside areas and areas that you have access too.

I am more concerned about areas like, sheds, garages...

Can some one shed some light, I've seen a whole range of different instalations done by qualified electricians

Thanks

Nic

[NCArcher]

Cabling should be installed in ducting or conduit where it is in need of protection from mechanical damage. It used to be within 1.6m of the floor but the regs now just say "wiring systems installed in positions where they are likely to be subjected to mechanical damage shall be adequately protected in accordance with clause...blah blah"

Sorry i can't be more specific.
Steel walled sheds are a different matter again as you are not allowed to install unprotected cables within 75mm (i think, i'd have to look it up ) of the surface of the tin/colourbond sheeting. But it all depends on the inspector and what he will let you get away with.