Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
In the UK, it is imperative for every workplace to undergo periodic Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) or fixed wire testing. Successful completion of these tests, along with any necessary remedial actions, results in the issuance of an ‘electrical safety certificate,’ demonstrating compliance with safety standards.
Adhering to the Electrical Work Regulations of 1989 holds utmost significance. Neglecting fixed wire testing and failing to maintain a safe workplace may lead to severe consequences, including building decommissioning and significant financial penalties. Acquiring an EICR certificate through fixed wire testing provides concrete evidence that your workplace is fully compliant and prioritizes the highest safety standards.
Ensuring the safety of your electrical installation is an ongoing legal obligation, achievable through regular periodic testing and inspection. The testing frequency will depend on the type of electrical installation, and we can offer guidance to help you stay within the recommended inspection intervals.
Thermographic Surveys
Regular examination and testing of your building’s electrical circuits is of utmost importance to meet the legal requirements outlined in The Electricity at Work Regulations Act (1989) and other regulatory mandates. Leveraging advanced infrared heat detection technology, myCompliance conducts Thermal Imaging surveys, offering a swift and non-intrusive method to proactively identify potential hazardous electrical faults. This approach enables the prompt implementation of remedial measures.
Electrical equipment has a tendency to heat up before failing, often remaining hidden from view until the problem becomes evident. Thankfully, our thermal imaging service instantly reveals these hot spots, allowing us to address them in a timely manner, investigate further, and plan necessary repairs before they escalate to critical issues. By scanning electrical cabinets, breaker panels, fuses, bolted connections, and switchgear with a thermal imager, we obtain an instant picture of impending trouble that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Thermal imaging is both cost-effective and efficient, potentially saving you thousands of pounds in the long run.
In-Service Inspection and testing of Electrical Equipment (PAT Testing)
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT Testing), now known as ‘In-service inspection and testing of electrical equipment’ according to the institution of engineering and technology (IET), is a crucial process for regularly testing electrical appliances. This practice ensures that the appliances are well-maintained and safe for use within their intended environment, in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. Compliance with this testing is mandatory by law, and many insurance companies also demand adherence to current regulations.
Microwave Leakage Testing
In the past, microwave leakage testing was included as part of the standard PAT test. However, in the transition from the 3rd to the 4th edition of the Code of Practice, this requirement was eliminated.
The reason for this removal, as stated in the 4th edition of the IT Code of Practice, is that microwave leakage testing falls outside the scope of ‘electrical safety’. Hence, in-service leakage testing for microwaves was taken out of the Code.
Despite this change, it may still be advisable to conduct a microwave leakage test simultaneously with the standard PAT test. To clarify, a microwave leakage test assesses the amount of microwave radiation leaking from a microwave oven. It should not be confused with the protective conductor current test, which is often referred to as an earth leakage test.
The maximum permitted leakage level, according to EN 60335-2-25, is 5 mW/cm2 at a distance of 50mm from the surface of the microwave oven. (mW/cm2 refers to the power present in one square centimetre). Additionally, microwave ovens are required to have two independent interlock systems that immediately halt the cooking process when the door is opened.
Emergency Lighting Testing
Regular inspection and testing of emergency escape lighting is a legal obligation for both building owners and employers, mandated by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and various health and safety regulations applicable to duty holders. Emergency lighting plays a crucial role in providing visibility during emergencies, particularly in situations like fires when the main power supply and regular illumination are disrupted. This lighting system operates automatically, ensuring sufficient illumination for a safe evacuation of occupants.
Maintaining properly functioning emergency lighting is of utmost importance to ensure the safety of the building, its occupants, and staff. Additionally, it is a legal requirement to conduct maintenance and testing of these systems at least once a year. Failure to do so would result in the duty holder being in breach of the law and could lead to potential liability.
Operating from our base in Southampton and serving Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Surrey and Sussex.
FAQs
-
What is an EICR?
EICR stands for ‘Electrical Installation Condition Report’. It was previously known as ‘Fixed Wire Testing’.
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a comprehensive document that outlines the safety and overall state of all electrical systems and fixtures within a property. This report is generated following a thorough evaluation conducted by a qualified electrician. The electrician conducts a visual examination and conducts tests on the installations to ensure that they are operating safely and in accordance with the minimum regulatory standards (BS7671). In cases where the electrician identifies potential safety issues, they will document these in the report using the appropriate recommendation code and inform you of any necessary corrective actions. Additionally, the report will specify the date by which the next inspection should take place.
-
What is Emergency Light Testing?
A monthly ‘flick’ test on emergency lighting systems is required as per the guidelines outlined in BS EN 50172 and BS 5266-8. During this test, the lighting power supply is briefly interrupted (usually via a key switch) to verify that all emergency lighting fixtures, also referred to as luminaires, activate or remain illuminated.
Should any lighting fixture fail to activate or provide consistent illumination during the flick test, it is imperative to arrange for the repair or replacement of the non-functional light source.
Every year, it’s necessary to perform a ‘duration’ test on your emergency lighting, sometimes referred to as a ‘discharge’ or ‘three-hour’ test.
During this test, the emergency lighting batteries are completely discharged. There are two primary reasons for conducting this test:
1. To ensure the functionality of your emergency lighting during critical situations. In the event of a power outage or fire, it’s essential to verify that your lighting remains operational for an adequate duration to guide people safely out of the building.
2. To identify potential battery drainage issues. If your battery’s lifespan is shorter than expected or specific lighting components begin to malfunction, this test can help you detect such issues and facilitate necessary repairs or replacements.
-
What is PAT testing?
In-service inspection and testing of electrical equipment, formely referred to as PAT Testing, is the inspection of electrical appliances and equipment to verify their safety for use is known as electrical safety assessment. While most electrical safety issues can be identified through visual inspection, certain defects require testing for detection. It’s crucial to recognize that visual examination plays a vital role in this process, as some electrical safety defects cannot be uncovered through testing alone.
