Electrical wires too close to insulation?

[lacuna bless]

My brother is boarding and adding to the glass fibre type insulation in his loft and is wondering how deep and tightly packed it should be? Also wires from recessed lighting are laid across joists and he is worried about how close these wires will be to the insulation when they are fixed or cut into the joists.

[Clanad]

If British building codes are anything like those here in the U.S., the wires, if newer with approved insulation, can be layed in the insulation or on top of the joists with no danger.Be sure no one cuts into the joists! To do so weakens them. The requirement is that the wires be inside of junction boxes where ever they are spliced. . The wires produce no heat and are safe to apply next to the wood... Additionally, don't pack down the insulation. If it's rolled or loose fibergalss, the insulation value comes from it be in a lofted condition, i.e.: loose with lots of airspaces, which is what actually provides the insulation level. An R-50 level is reached with about 12 to 18 inches of fiberglass... A minimum of R-30 is recommended for attics, which can be achieved at 4 to 6 inches of fiberglass... Best of luck!

[RATTER15]

Do not cover the recessed lights with insulation, the transformer and possibly the lights will overheat.