During an R1+R2 continuity test on a lighting circuit, where is the test typically performed?

• A. Between live and earth at the ceiling rose or switch
• B. Between live and neutral at the consumer unit
• C. Between earth and neutral at the distribution board
• D. Between live and earth at the socket outlet

Answer: (A)

R1+R2 continuity testing checks that both the live path and the protective earth path are continuous back to the origin, so fault current can return safely and trip protective devices. To verify this on a lighting circuit, you apply a small test current between the live conductor and the protective earth at a point in the circuit. The ceiling rose or a lighting switch is the typical access point because it gives you direct access to the lighting L and PE conductors and tests the complete L–PE path along the circuit.

Testing between live and neutral would assess a different loop (L–N) and wouldn’t confirm the earth path’s continuity. Testing earth–neutral at the distribution board doesn’t check the L–PE continuity specific to the lighting run. Testing at a socket outlet is not the standard point for a lighting circuit, where the emphasis is on the L–E path at the lighting point.