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What Is a Periodic Inspection?
A periodic Inspection is a test and inspection to ascertain the condition of an existing electrical installation. It’s function is to identify and prioritise any deficiencies against the 17th Edition of the British standards for electrical installations BS7671:2008, also known as the IEE's Wiring Regulations.
In brief a periodic test and inspection of the fixed wiring will provide a full, accurate and impartial view of the condition of your electrical installations. The results of the Periodic Inspection are recorded on the Periodic Inspection Report.
A Periodic Test and Inspection will identify for example:
If any of the electrical circuits are deteriorating due to age or are becoming overloaded.
Highlight any deficiencies with the circuit protection (Fuses) or any of the safety systems employed throughout the installation.
Identify any shock or fire risks within your electrical installations
Identify faulty electrical accessories or incorrect wiring
That the polarity of cabling and connections is correct.
The continuity of conductors
Remember, every electrical installation deteriorates with age and it is important for the person responsible for the maintenance of the installation to be sure that the safety of the users is not put at risk and that the electrical installation continues to be in a safe and serviceable condition.
When should a Periodic Inspection be carried out?
The following intervals are taken from Guidance Note 3 of BS7671:2008 and are recommended intervals only, age and condition need to be taken into account when assessing the time between tests:
Domestic Dwelling - 10 Years or Change of Occupant
Commercial Property - 5 Years (includes let properties)
Caravans - 3 Years
Swimming Pools - 1 Year
Licensed Premises - 1 Year
The Periodic Inspection Report:
The Periodic Inspection Report is the formal method of recording the findings of the electrical test and electrical inspection. It describes the overall condition of the installation as being either "Satisfactory" or "Unsatisfactory". If the installation is found to be in a satisfactory condition then no immediate remedial action is needed. However if an ‘Unsatisfactory’ condition is recorded then remedial action will be required to bring the installation into a safe and serviceable condition. In this instance any discrepancies will be allocated a code in the report to indicate the urgency of the action required:
Code 1 Requires Urgent Attention
Code 2 Requires Improvement
Code 3 Requires Further Investigation
Code 4 Does not comply with BS7671 (but not necessarily unsafe
The Periodic Inspection
A periodic Inspection is a test and inspection to ascertain the condition of an existing electrical installation. It’s function is to identify and prioritise any deficiencies against the 17th Edition of the British standards for electrical installations BS7671:2008, also known as the IEE's Wiring Regulations. In brief a periodic test and inspection of the fixed wiring will provide a full, accurate and impartial view of the condition of your electrical installations. The results of the Periodic Inspection are recorded on the Periodic Inspection Report.
A Periodic Test and Inspection will identify for example:
If any of the electrical circuits are deteriorating due to age or are becoming overloaded.
Highlight any deficiencies with the circuit protection (Fuses) or any of the safety systems employed throughout the installation.
Identify any shock or fire risks within your electrical installations
Identify faulty electrical accessories or incorrect wiring
That the polarity of cabling and connections is correct.The continuity of conductors
Remember, every electrical installation deteriorates with age and it is important for the person responsible for the maintenance of the installation to be sure that the safety of the users is not put at risk and that the electrical installation continues to be in a safe and serviceable condition.
When should a Periodic Inspection be carried out?
The following intervals are taken from Guidance Note 3 of BS7671:2008 and are recommended intervals only, age and condition need to be taken into account when assessing the time between tests:
Domestic Dwelling - 10 Years or Change of Occupant
Commercial Property - 5 Years (includes let properties)
Caravans - 3 YearsSwimming Pools - 1 Year
Licensed Premises - 1 Year
The Periodic Inspection Report:
The Periodic Inspection Report is the formal method of recording the findings of the electrical test and electrical inspection. It describes the overall condition of the installation as being either "Satisfactory" or "Unsatisfactory". If the installation is found to be in a satisfactory condition then no immediate remedial action is needed. However if an ‘Unsatisfactory’ condition is recorded then remedial action will be required to bring the installation into a safe and serviceable condition. In this instance any discrepancies will be allocated a code in the report to indicate the urgency of the action required:
Code 1 Requires Urgent Attention
Code 2 Requires Improvement
Code 3 Requires Further Investigation
Code 4 Does not comply with BS7671 (but not necessarily unsafe)
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