Periodic Inspection & Safety Testing
The purpose of periodic inspection and safety testing is to provide, so far as is reasonably practible, for:
1. The safety of persons and livestock against the effects of electric shock and burns.
2. Protection against damage to the property by fire and heat arising from an installation defect.
3. Confirmation that the installation is not damaged or deteriorated so as to impair safety.
4. 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 safety testing
All electrical installations deteriorate due to a large number of factors such as damage, wear, tear, corrosion, excessive electrical loading, ageing and environmental influences. Consequently:
1. Legislation requires that all electrical installations are maintained in a safe condition and therefore must be periodically inspected and tested.
2. Licensing authorities, public bodies, insurance companies, mortgage lenders and others may require periodic inspection of electrical installations.
3. Additionally, periodic inspection and safety testing should be considered:
- To assess compliance with BS7671
- On a change of occupancy of the premises
- On a change of use of premises
- After alterations or additions to the original installation
- On any significant change in the electrical loading of the installation
- When there is reason to believe that damage may have been caused to the installation i.e. flooding, fire
