Portable Appliance Testing
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require that any electrical equipment with the potential to cause injury is maintained in a safe condition. The frequency of inspection and testing depends on the type of equipment, and the environment in which it is used. For example, a power tool used on a construction site should be examined more frequently than a lamp in a hotel bedroom.
IEE Code of Practice
The IEE Code of Practice recognises four test situations:
- Type Testing to an Appropriate Standard
- Production Testing
- In-Service Testing
- Testing After Repair
Testing: What’s Involved?
Tests include the following:
- Preliminary Inspection
- Earth Continuity Tests (For Class 1 Equipment)
- Insulation Testing (Sometimes Substituted by Earth Leakage Measurement)
- Functional Checks
Hire Seasoned Professionals
Electrical testing should be performed by a person who is competent in the safe use of test equipment, and who knows how to interpret the results obtained. This person must be capable of inspecting the equipment and, where necessary, dismantling it to check the cable connections.
If equipment is permanently connected to the fixed installation, such as by a flex outlet or other accessory, the accessory will need to be detached from its box or enclosure so that the connections can be inspected. Such work should only be carried out by a competent person.
The engineers at NJS Limited have been testing appliances for many years and have a wealth of experience. Our testers’ experience and qualifications include C&G 2377 and Portable Appliance Safety Service certification.
CONTACT OUR electrical contractors in Darlington, County Durham, to learn more about the services we provide.