Periodic Inspection and Testing

What is the Purpose of Periodic Inspection and Testing?

• the safety of persons, livestock against the effects of electric shock and burns in acordance with the general requirements of regulation 131.1, and
• protection against damage to property by fire and heat arising from an installation defect, and
• confirmation that the installation is not damaged or deteriorated so as to impair safety, and
• the identification of installation defects and non-compliance with the requirements of the Regulations which may give rise to danger.”

Necessity for Periodic Inspection and Testing

IEE Guidance notes 3 Inspection and Testing, states:

“Periodic inspection and testing is necessary because all electrical installations deteriorate due to a number of factors such as damage, wear, tear, corrosion, excessive electrical loading, ageing and environmental influences. Consequently:

• Legislation requires that electrical installations are maintained in a safe condition and therefore must be periodically inspected and tested.
• Licensing authorities, public bodies, insurance companies, mortgage lenders and others may require periodic inspection and testing and testing of electrical installations, as is for the example the case for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs)
• Additionally, periodic inspection and testing should be considered:
  • To assess compliance with BS7671
  • On a change of occupancy
  • On a change of use of the premises
  • After alterations or additions to the original installation
  • Because of any significant change in the electrical loading of the installation
  • Wherethere is reason tobelieve that damage may have been caused to the installation, as might be the case for example after flooding."

   

Frequency of Inspection

Reference Key

1. Particular attention must be taken to comply with SI 1988 No 1057. The Electricity Supply Regulations 1988 (as amended).
2. SI 1989 No 635. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (Regulation 4 & Memorandum).
3. See BS 5266: Part 1: 1988 Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises other than cinemas and certain other specified premises used for entertainment.
4. Other intervals are recommended for testing operation of batteries and generators.
5. See BS 5839: Part 1: 1988 Code of practice for system design installation and servicing (Fire detection and alarm systems for buildings).
6. Local Authority Conditions of Licence.
7. SI 1995 No 1129 (Clause 27) The Cinematograph (Safety) Regulations.