WHAT IS PERIODIC FIXED WIRE TESTING?
Periodic Test and Inspection is the process of ensuring electrical installations are working correctly and are safely. There is a regulated set of processes and procedures which are followed, including the use of testing equipment to ensure that the electrical installation complies with. These test and inspections must be carried out by a Competent Person (registered electricians) who will then issue an Electrical Installation Condition Report detailing any observed damage, deterioration, defects and non-compliances.
In the result of a danger or potentially dangerous finding, the condition of the electrical installation will be confirmed unsatisfactory, and that remedial action will be required without delay to remove the risks to life.
Each electrical installation should be tested within a 5 year period according to the UK Standard for the safety of electrical installations, BS 7671 – Requirements for Electrical Installations (IET Wiring Regulations).
The Competent Person will check such things as adequacy of earthing and bonding, suitability of the switchgear and control gear, Serviceability of switches, sockets and lighting fittings and if any items need to be replaced, Type of wiring system and The extent of any wear and tear, damage or other deterioration, amongst others.
The purpose of periodic inspection & testing is to provide an engineering view on whether or not an installation is in a satisfactory condition where it can continue to be used safely.
It is an important requirement that ensures that all electrical installations in buildings are safe and comply with relevant regulations.
The testing and inspection of electrical installations are governed by several regulations and standards, including:
1.The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989:
This regulation requires that all electrical systems, equipment, and installations are maintained in a safe condition, and are periodically inspected and tested to ensure their safety.
2. BS 7671:2018 (+A2:2022) Requirements for Electrical Installations:
This is the British Standard that sets out the requirements for electrical installations in the UK. It provides guidance on the design, installation, and maintenance of electrical installations, and requires periodic inspection and testing of these installations.
3. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974:
This Act requires employers to provide a safe working environment for their employees, and this includes ensuring that electrical installations are safe and regularly inspected and tested.
Requirements for periodic electrical fixed wire testing and inspection are as follows:
- Frequency of testing: Electrical installations in different types of buildings require different frequencies of testing. For example, recommended frequencies for commercial properties require testing every 5 years, while industrial properties are every 3 years.
- Testing procedure: The testing and inspection of electrical installations must be carried out by a competent and qualified electrician who is registered with a professional body. The electrician will carry out a detailed visual examination of the installation, together with appropriate tests from BS7617:2018+A2, Chapter 64.to check the safety and functionality of the installation.
- Testing report: The testing engineer will provide a detailed report on completion of the inspection, which will include any defects or issues that were identified, and recommendations for remedial action.
- Remedial action: If any defects or issues are identified during the inspection, the testing engineer will record the severity and recommend remedial action to ensure the safety of the installation.
- Records: The testing and inspection report must be kept by the building owner or manager, and a copy must be provided to the testing engineer carrying out the next test and inspection.
IMPORTANCE OF ELECTRICAL FIXED WIRE TESTING
Faulty installations can often be caused by them being fitted/installed incorrectly, becoming damaged, being wired incorrectly and more. Research shows defective installations can also result in electric shock, malfunctions, overloading, damage to installations and in serious cases, death – therefore to ensure the safety of all humans and animals within a property, all electrical items must be inspected and tested.
Regular testing of installations are also important for owners of estates as they can detect potential failures in advance and mean that works can be carried out to fix the issue proactively.
There are several benefits of conducting periodic electrical fixed wire testing and inspection. Some of the key benefits include:
Compliance with regulations:
Regular testing and inspection of electrical installations help to ensure that the installation complies with the relevant regulations, such as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and BS 7671. Compliance with these regulations is not only a legal requirement, but it also ensures the safety of those who use the building.
Early detection of faults:
Electrical testing and inspection can identify faults in the installation that might otherwise go undetected. This can help to prevent potential electrical hazards, such as electrical shock or fire, and ensure the safety of those who use the building.
Reduced risk of downtime:
Regular testing and inspection can help to identify and fix potential issues before they cause major problems. This can help to reduce the risk of downtime, which can be costly for businesses and disruptive for those who use the building.
Improved energy efficiency:
Testing and inspection can identify areas where energy is being wasted or where the installation could potentially be made more energy efficient. By making improvements to the installation, businesses and building owners can save money on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.
Peace of mind:
Regular testing and inspection can provide peace of mind to building owners, businesses, and those who use the building. Knowing that the electrical installation is safe and compliant with regulations can help to create a sense of security and confidence.
Overall, electrical fixed wire testing and inspection is an important process that helps to ensure the safety and compliance of electrical installations.
By conducting regular testing and inspection, building owners, businesses, and individuals can reduce the risk of electrical hazards, improve energy efficiency, and have greater peace of mind.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM NOT COMPLIANT
Whilst there are no specific electrical testing laws, various Health and Safety in Workplace laws mean that noncompliance may put building users at risks. In many cases, property and estate owners will be in direct contradiction to their insurance requirements, which in the event of a serious incident may result insurances being deemed invalid.
WHY CHOOSE CBES FOR YOUR FIXED WIRE TESTING?
City has an enviable track record in delivering customer focused Test and Inspection for over 30 years. We are experts in this field and have a proven track record of success, providing our Test and Inspection service to several blue-chip customers across the UK. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our rigorous testing and inspection process, as well as our ongoing investment in the training and development of our engineers.
We work best when we work in partnership with our customers, many of which have been with us for over 10 years. We work with them to develop unique offerings that effectively deliver value and innovation, continually improving the service by our flexibility and process improvements.
We will work with you to develop responsive, technically assured, and reliable services that continually evolve and adapt to your needs and requirement, translating them into operational practice, creating a visible customer focused culture, providing open and transparent access to information, and demonstrating accountability and responsibility for service outcomes. We take a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues, working closely with our customers to ensure that their electrical installations are safe and compliant.
CBES has extensive experience in electrical testing and inspection, having worked with a range of customers across various sectors, including retail, heritage, and industrial. This experience has allowed CBES to develop deep industry expertise and knowledge that it can leverage to provide tailored solutions to meet its customers' specific needs.
OUR TEAM
CBES have a dedicated Test and Inspection team made up of over 30 qualified and experienced engineers who are strategically placed throughout the UK. We have a large inhouse electrical team who also support us to deliver remedial action that may be required as a result of a failed inspection.
At CBES, we are proud to provide high-quality electrical testing and inspection services to a range of customers, including leading retailers such as ASDA, Marks & Spencer, and Co-op, as well as heritage organisations like The National Trust.
Our team of highly skilled and experienced electricians use the latest testing and inspection equipment to thoroughly assess and evaluate the safety and compliance of electrical installations in a wide range of buildings and facilities. We follow a rigorous testing and inspection process in accordance with Chapter 65 of BS 7671:2018 (+A2:2022) that includes visual inspections, as well as a series of tests designed to check the safety and functionality of the installation.
We work closely with our customers to ensure that any remedial work is carried out quickly and efficiently, with minimal disruption to their operations.
If you require electrical testing and inspection services, please don't hesitate to contact us to discuss your requirements. Our team of experts will be happy to provide you with a personalised quote and answer any questions you may have.
If you require electrical testing and inspection services, please don't hesitate to contact us to discuss your requirements. Our team of experts will be happy to provide you with a personalised quote and answer any questions you may have.