09/07/2021
Legal adherence is of paramount importance to every business owner, manager and employee. There are several rules and regulations that cover varying aspects of business management, so keeping on top of each one often requires sourcing professionals from that specific arena for the sake of time management. The procurement of an Electrical Condition Report (fixed wiring testing) is referred to as a suitable way to ensure you are adhering to the requirements of the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989). While an Electrical Conduct Report is not legally binding alone, it is written proof of your compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations.
Plus, it is imperative all effective methods are in place to ensure the maintained wellbeing of your staff under the Health and Safety at Work Act, 1974; as an employer, it is also your responsibility.
Terminology
Fixed wiring testing is the colloquial term for an Electrical Installation Condition Report, often abbreviated further to EICR for full transparency, however the result is the same irrespective of its given name: life-saving fire and hazard prevention.
It is important to note a licence and specific qualifications are required in order to execute fixed wiring testing. Although it could be reasonably assumed all electricians undertake this training as standard, there is separate training for fixed wiring testing.
How Often Should Fixed Wiring Testing be Performed?
It is recommended industrial businesses carry out an EICR once every three years, but we recommend also checking your insurance policy to see if a more frequent EICR is mandatory as part of your agreement. Not only will you then be fully covered, but you can also remain rest assured trained professionals have confirmed you are carrying out your due diligence in protecting your people and your property. The purpose of an EICR is to reduce the risk of injury from electrical equipment to the smallest percentage chance, so while the recommended frequency may change with the type of business, the minimum recommendation for an EICR is every 5 years.
What does it Involve?
Electrical contractors inspect electrical accessories, wiring, and the fuse board/consumer unit for faults or variations of wiring standards. For example, do the electrical fittings show signs of weathering? Are there any exposed live wires? Is the earthing and bonding adequate? These are just some of the questions an electrician will be looking to answer upon an EICR inspection.
Please note, professional electrical contractors should conduct fixed wiring testing due to the risks in performing the tests, the training required to pinpoint any faults, major or minor, and the minimal amount of disruption caused when carried out by an experienced electrical contractor.
To book your EICR, contact the team today.