In this blog post let us discuss a few important things related to improving electrical safety at workplaces. As far as the UK is concerned, compliance for commercial EICR inspection has existed over the years. But what is an EICR? Let us go through this aspect first in plain and simple words that is easy for everyone to understand.
Understanding an EICR or electrical test
EICR is the acronym for Electrical Installation Condition Report. The ultimate goal is that every electrical installation as well as equipment undergoes the test and inspection. Furthermore the results of the same are to be recorded. It includes checking the components not only for normal wear and tear but also for faulty wiring or any other issue that may pose as a potential risk of electric shocks and excessively high temperatures. The results of the test are categorised as following –
C1, C2 and F1 – both come under unsatisfactory result category.
- C1 indicates presence of danger and remedial action is to be taken immediately. This happens to be the most serious of the categories. If your result is comes under this category you have to get the necessary repairs and replacements done immediately and report that to the relevant authority.
- C2 indicates an electrical installation is potentially dangerous and urgent remedial work is to be done.
- F1 – unlike the two other categories mentioned above – indicates more investigation is needed on a given electrical installation.
C3 is the only grade that comes under satisfactory category.
When your installation’s EICR report says C3 it means recommendations or advisories for improvement are still there. These are mostly defects within the installation that are in compliance with a previous edition of the regulations but not with the current one.
Once all the repairs mentioned in the C1, C2 and F1 categories of your EICR report are carried out along with the supporting documentation to provide a detailed audit trail for the future, only then the installation is classified as satisfactory.
How often an EICR is to be done
As per the requirements mentioned in the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, it is a legal necessity to carry out an EICR on all electrical installations. Based on the industry and the type of installation along with relevant risks involved the timeline varies from 6 months to 5 years. However these are the maximum frequencies mentioned in the rulebook. Ultimately it is the engineer’s decision based on the overall condition of an installation.
The same is applicable to rented residential properties where landlords are expected to carry out an EICR at least every five years.
An electrical installation certificate versus an EICR
First of all you must know that an electrical installation certificate and an EICR are never the same. An electrical installation certificate comes into existence only when a new electrical installation has been finished or replacement of a distribution board is done.
What are the preparations for an electrical inspection?
As such there is no major preparation for you to cover as a run up to the test. However it is important for the inspectors to get to see your installation to conduct inspection. But on the other hand there are quite a few things that you can take care of so that the inspection process goes on smoothly.
- Ensure no part of the property is blocked off or is tough to access for the inspectors
- If you are a pre paid meter, make has sufficient credit so that the tests can be carried out smoothly
- Ensure smooth and easy access to the main electrical installation room as well as the gas and the water supplies
- Get rid of any item or object that may get in the way of the inspection while the inspector looks for electrical items, accessories or equipment
Commercial EICR inspection – few relevant facts
The Electric Works London is a trusted and popular name in providing EICR inspections, certifications and other forms of electrical safety testing. We quote a nominal EICR testing cost that easily suits every pocket although we provide one of the most comprehensive services. We operate across London as well as the neighbouring regions. Our highly trained and qualified electricians are experienced enough to provide you a much higher value for your hard-earned money. Feel free to contact us now.