Coronavirus and the Impact on the Technology and Electrical Installation Industry. A Truthful assessment of what’s coming.
The impact of the coronavirus on the world as a whole, as we have all seen, has been massive and a large proportion of industries will be affected; technology and Electrical Installation will be no different.
Many of our clients have been asking us what effect this means on currently planned in work and upcoming proposed projects.
Below is our honest opinion on how this will affect the electrical industry and where it can be incorporated into your companies industry.
The Impact on Installations, Essential Works and Safety
The complications with the current coronavirus is that no one knows how long it will continue, when work can return back to normal or even a small resemblance on what was previously normal.
Companies are concerned that having installers in their offices during these times risk exposure and spread of the virus and as a company we wholeheartedly agree that for the world as a whole we need to practice social distancing, and this starts with the eliminating or reduction of installations where exposure to other employees, trades or workers is non manageable.
This then leads on to what’s essential and therefore able to be scheduled.
Each company’s definition of essential will vary based on requirements, the infrastructure of the business and the overall impact that the delay in those structured cabling works will have on the operation of that business.
As a company we have seen essential works having to be completed for UK essential businesses such as Royal Mail, Banking and Finance where installation that were mid project were required to be completed unless the overall operation of those deliveries would be affected.
However, in a contrasting manner we have seen many projects be delayed or cancelled due to the lack of essential requirements. Projects have also been rescheduled where health and safety can’t be guaranteed for the end client or the installation companies involved.
The impact on Surveys, Meetings and Quotations
The biggest impact on the industry so far has been the reduction and almost elimination of meetings, surveys and the knock on affect to quotations and proposals for Electrical Installations.
With many staff now working from home there is now a lack of presence within all the companies and buildings that would be arranging installation surveys or design meetings.
(Especially in the London area where public transport is massively reduced and seen as a medium to avoid where possible.)
The effect on the industry is: Reduced surveys leads to reduced structured cabling quotations and reduced installation projects.
The effect overall is a positive for battling the virus as each reduced element increases the social distancing.
Opportunities, Smarter Working and Solutions
This period of upheaval will pass although no one knows how long and how definitive that timescale will be. Once the initial rise starts to flatten and more is known on how to manage the virus, the distancing and how people will start to return to work then focus will return to how all those projects that have been delayed can start to put into place.
This will apply for all industries, not only the technology and electrical industry.
The opportunity here is to plan in advance and undertake those surveys, processed the quotations and schedule the works in anticipation of the return to a somewhat normal working week.
As a company we are undertaking increased surveys offsite with a detailed almost interview like discussion over the telephone or video conferencing. In those situations where employees are still based within their offices, photos, videos and live streams are being used to survey these works and enabling detailed and accurate quotations to be supplied.
Also, where quotations are accepted and works agreed on as essential and safe to install, engineers are able to attend almost empty buildings and undertake these works in a safer manner than was ever possible.
Not only are the social distancing elements upheld but a larger proportion of health and safety measures are now massively minimised or eliminated. Health and Safety concerns such as removing false floors in an active office, working on ladders around employees and especially noise pollution within an office or heard in other company offices.
Summary
Is the upcoming period going to be difficult and an upheaval? The answer of course will be based on what your company does and how the virus plays out.
However what we do know is at this time we have more technology and ways of filling voids than we have ever had before and these can be used to bring an element of normality back to the survey, quotation and installation process within the Electrical Installation industry.
So while others stand still waiting to see what happens, allow us to use these opportunities to actually increase the effectiveness and completion times of those important projects and leave the rest of the precious time to getting back to normal within your business.
PAT Testing in the Workplace
/0 Comments/in Safety, Tips & Advice /by Jeff EvansA Quick Guide to PAT Testing for the Workplace
Electricity is a form of energy which can be exceptionally powerful and is used extensively in workplaces. It can be used to power offices, factories and shops in a variety of ways. But electricity can also be dangerous. Any workplace, packed full of electrical products, represents a significant risk to your staff and your customers. That’s why it’s crucial that you regularly test your electrical appliances.
The most common safety test carried out is PAT testing. It’s a series of checks which safeguards people coming into your business and ensures that you meet the Electricity at Work Regulations. You may not be familiar with the methods behind PAT testing, so we’ve put together a quick guide.
What is PAT Testing?
Portable Appliance Testing (better known as PAT ) involves the examination of electrical products to verify their safety and confirm they are fit to use. The procedure takes in the following checks:
A PAT test can be completed relatively quickly by connecting appliances to a PAT testing device. If the appliance passes the PAT test then it can continue to be used. However, any appliance that fails its PAT test must be removed from service immediately. Although not a legal necessity, it is considered good practice to label individual devices with a PASS/FAIL sticker.
Electrical Testing in the Workplace
The Electricity at Work Regulations state that all electrical systems must be maintained in order to prevent any form of danger. The regulations do not specifically indicate that PAT testing itself is a legal requirement, but the fact remains that it’s a crucial step in maintaining appliances. PAT testing is a guaranteed method for evaluating the safety of electrical appliances. As such, it should form a part of every organisation’s maintenance routine.
When it comes to PAT testing frequency it is recommended that these checks are carried out as per below:
Final Thoughts
PAT testing is one of the simplest methods of protecting your staff and your customers. Not only does it help your business comply with the Electricity at Work Regulations, but it minimises the risk of electrical accidents. Accordingly, it’s vital that your business understands all PAT testing requirements and also adheres to the recommended PAT testing frequency periods. Most important of all is to work with competent PAT testers who can confidently certify your equipment.
Read more about Electrical Testing or call to discuss your requirements.
CALL US NOW Electrical Installation Services 020 3912 6200
Industrial Power and Lighting
/0 Comments/in Tips & Advice /by Jeff EvansPower and Lighting for Industry
When it comes to an industrial setting you need to make sure that you have the correct power and lighting in place. Without these crucial elements correctly installed, you are going to seriously struggle with your productivity. And this means that your business will be less competitive. Naturally, you want your business to be productive and competitive, so investing in the best power and lighting is of the utmost importance.
Why You Need the Right Power and Lighting
An industrial setting is both busy and dangerous, so safety is a vital factor. Power, of course, is the backbone of an industrial environment. But the methods by which power is supplied can be dangerous. Electrical cabling, for example, can cause numerous problems such as trip hazards; this is magnified in a situation where significant amounts of machinery are in use. And lighting is just as important. Industrial settings such as factories and refineries can be starved of natural light. Therefore, you need to ensure that these workplaces are lighted satisfactorily.
Modern Developments in Power and Lighting
Industrial landscapes have been part of our everyday lives for well over a century now. This is why there is such a huge industry based around supplying power and lighting solutions. But this doesn’t mean that all the relevant solutions are in place. The owners of industrial businesses may not even be aware of many of them. And, thanks to advances in technology, there is a revolution taking place in industrial power and lighting.
Some of the most exciting developments in this area include:
Smart Controlled Lighting Systems:
The wonder of smart lighting has proved popular in domestic and office settings, but it has remained a stranger to industrial settings. However, this scenario is slowly changing. Wireless technology combined with powerful interfaces has opened up endless possibilities in the industrial sector. The systems are simple to install and allow you to customise your lighting needs with precision.
Under Floor Power:
Industrial settings are busy workplaces and this calls for significant investment in health and safety measures. And one of the quickest and most direct ways to address this is with under floor power. Electrical equipment, of course, needs to be connected with cabling. But this cabling, aside from being unsightly, is also dangerous in an industrial environment. Under floor power addresses this by allowing you to run all cabling underneath walkways and work areas.
Temporary Lighting:
Alternative solutions to lighting are always important to have; temporary lighting acts as not just a backup, but also a fantastic solution for working at night. Temporary lighting uses multiple lights that all connect to one power supply. It’s a solution which provides you with a portable lighting option that is perfect for any works taking place outdoors. It can also, if required, be implemented internally in case of any lighting failures.
The Perfect Solution
It’s essential that businesses in the industrial market work with the best power and lighting solutions. Falling behind here will blunt your competitive edge and have a major impact on the safety of your workplace. However, industrial power and lighting systems are complex. And, due to the potential hazards of working with electricity, it is highly recommended that you team up with professionals. This will guarantee that your setup sticks to the relevant regulations and will be completed on time.
Read more about Electrical installation for Industry or call to discuss your requirements.
CALL US NOW Electrical Installation Services 020 3912 6200
Electrical Installation Surveys During Covid-19
/0 Comments/in Covid, Electrical Testing, Safety, Tips & Advice /by Jeff EvansHow can I get an electrical installation survey done during lockdown?
With the new guidelines on social distancing and the message to stay at home, conducting an electrical installation survey is becoming increasingly difficult or not possible to carry out in person.
However this time shall pass and those projects that need to be completed will still need to be undertaken. A delay in survey will lead to lag in quotation, approval and the project being mobilised and undertaken.
The aim now is to reduce that time lag by still carrying out the earlier part of the process using innovative techniques and systems to complete these surveys and quotations allowing clients to put these budgets into their cash flow so when social distancing is reduced these works can happen immediately.
How can surveys be completed without coming to my place of business?
The majority of surveys can still be undertaken “off site” and the more information that can be collated during this process the more accurate the quotation will be for the needs of the client.
The majority of the information doesn’t change whether it’s a meeting on site or an off-site discussion. The numbers of cables required, the number of users moving into a building, the requirement of the electrical installations, the timescales to complete these works.
Also the construction of the space can easily be communicated which with the knowledge of the project management team accurate quotations can be built. For example, does the space have a false ceiling, a false floor, is there dado trunking around the walls of the offices, how long and wide is the space and where is the electrical cabinet in relation to those requirements?
Drawings allow the process to be even more accurate and will show our quotation team a visual of the space to gauge distances, routes and requirements.
The final element which then allows a 99% accurate quotation is the provision of photos and videos. With the information above and photos or videos of the proposed requirements our team is confident that the quotation provided offsite will be as accurate as an on site survey.
If someone is still based at their offices or place of business a simple walk through the building with Facetime, Zoom or Whatsapp will allow our team to provide the quotations you need.
What Project Surveys And Quotations Can Be Undertaken Off Site?
The majority of projects can be quoted accurately off site and are especially suited to the following due to the similar nature of the spaces:
What project surveys and quotations are not suitable be undertaken off site?
The following projects usually involve some deeper understanding of the requirements and survey of the spaces and even though these projects are not best suited to off-site surveys than can still be quoted with a quotation range as a budget which can then be confirmed with an on-site meeting once the opportunity arises.
Due to the complicated routes and limitations on what can be changed, drilled and have containment fixed, an on-site survey is usually best for these buildings.
Homes by their nature have no obvious routes for electrical installations, so seeing the building internally from the start to end point is important. These projects are best suited to an on-site presence.
Using technology such as Google earth can assist in proving quotations for these works but in a population dense area such as London the routes externally between buildings or spaces sometimes follow many changes of direction and elevation which cannot be seen or understood off site.
The advantages of Projects during social distancing
With the ability to still provide quotations during the social distancing stage we can then follow through with structured cabling installations during the shutdown of many offices, schools and places of business.
The advantages are that the work can be completed win a much safer way as the premises are empty, the works can be completed in regular hours rather than incurring an out of hours installation cost and in some cases the works can be completed quicker and more economical as the absence of employees in the space allow the works to be completed faster.
Accuracy and Guarantee
The more information that is able to be communicated the more accurate the quotation can be for the client. However in 20 years of pricing so many different projects we know from experience that over 95% of projects we have quoted in the past from off-site information have resulted in no changes to the price, once an onsite meeting has followed to firm up requirements, and of the 5% that have had the change the price hasn’t deviated by more than 10%, once further information was known.
Therefore, during these challenging times if we provide an off-site electrical installation quotation for you based on the information received during a conference call and with the required supporting information we will honour that set price if the on-site follow up doesn’t change the pricing by more than 10%. In essence it allows the cost to increase by 10% and we will still complete the works at the originally supplied quotation
For those quotations that can’t be accurately quoted a range of budget pricing can be supplied and firmed up on site once the situation allows to still enable the clients to budget in their cash flow.
Call us to book an electrical installation survey or a quotation, or simply to talk through your current project.
Tel: 020 3912 6200
Electrical Installation Services – Client Case Studies
Covid 19, Coronavirus and the Impact on Technology and Electrical Installations
/0 Comments/in Safety, Tips & Advice /by Jeff EvansCoronavirus and the Impact on the Technology and Electrical Installation Industry. A Truthful assessment of what’s coming.
The impact of the coronavirus on the world as a whole, as we have all seen, has been massive and a large proportion of industries will be affected; technology and Electrical Installation will be no different.
Many of our clients have been asking us what effect this means on currently planned in work and upcoming proposed projects.
Below is our honest opinion on how this will affect the electrical industry and where it can be incorporated into your companies industry.
The Impact on Installations, Essential Works and Safety
The complications with the current coronavirus is that no one knows how long it will continue, when work can return back to normal or even a small resemblance on what was previously normal.
Companies are concerned that having installers in their offices during these times risk exposure and spread of the virus and as a company we wholeheartedly agree that for the world as a whole we need to practice social distancing, and this starts with the eliminating or reduction of installations where exposure to other employees, trades or workers is non manageable.
This then leads on to what’s essential and therefore able to be scheduled.
Each company’s definition of essential will vary based on requirements, the infrastructure of the business and the overall impact that the delay in those structured cabling works will have on the operation of that business.
As a company we have seen essential works having to be completed for UK essential businesses such as Royal Mail, Banking and Finance where installation that were mid project were required to be completed unless the overall operation of those deliveries would be affected.
However, in a contrasting manner we have seen many projects be delayed or cancelled due to the lack of essential requirements. Projects have also been rescheduled where health and safety can’t be guaranteed for the end client or the installation companies involved.
The impact on Surveys, Meetings and Quotations
The biggest impact on the industry so far has been the reduction and almost elimination of meetings, surveys and the knock on affect to quotations and proposals for Electrical Installations.
With many staff now working from home there is now a lack of presence within all the companies and buildings that would be arranging installation surveys or design meetings.
(Especially in the London area where public transport is massively reduced and seen as a medium to avoid where possible.)
The effect on the industry is: Reduced surveys leads to reduced structured cabling quotations and reduced installation projects.
The effect overall is a positive for battling the virus as each reduced element increases the social distancing.
Opportunities, Smarter Working and Solutions
This period of upheaval will pass although no one knows how long and how definitive that timescale will be. Once the initial rise starts to flatten and more is known on how to manage the virus, the distancing and how people will start to return to work then focus will return to how all those projects that have been delayed can start to put into place.
This will apply for all industries, not only the technology and electrical industry.
The opportunity here is to plan in advance and undertake those surveys, processed the quotations and schedule the works in anticipation of the return to a somewhat normal working week.
As a company we are undertaking increased surveys offsite with a detailed almost interview like discussion over the telephone or video conferencing. In those situations where employees are still based within their offices, photos, videos and live streams are being used to survey these works and enabling detailed and accurate quotations to be supplied.
Also, where quotations are accepted and works agreed on as essential and safe to install, engineers are able to attend almost empty buildings and undertake these works in a safer manner than was ever possible.
Not only are the social distancing elements upheld but a larger proportion of health and safety measures are now massively minimised or eliminated. Health and Safety concerns such as removing false floors in an active office, working on ladders around employees and especially noise pollution within an office or heard in other company offices.
Summary
Is the upcoming period going to be difficult and an upheaval? The answer of course will be based on what your company does and how the virus plays out.
However what we do know is at this time we have more technology and ways of filling voids than we have ever had before and these can be used to bring an element of normality back to the survey, quotation and installation process within the Electrical Installation industry.
So while others stand still waiting to see what happens, allow us to use these opportunities to actually increase the effectiveness and completion times of those important projects and leave the rest of the precious time to getting back to normal within your business.
Electrical Installation Testing Procedures
/0 Comments/in Electrical Testing, Safety /by Jeff EvansElectrical Testing Procedures
Electrical products are an essential part of modern living. Without these innovative (and sometimes lifesaving) products life would be very different. However, electricity is also unpredictable and and without regular and rigorous testing can be incredibly dangerous. Check out our Testing Procedures below
That’s why there’s so much legislation in place when it comes to working with electricity. So, to ensure that your electrical installations are safe you need to work with certified experts. Not only will this keep you within the boundaries of the law, but it will also provide a much needed layer of safety. Naturally, you will want to understand the test procedures that these experts will use, so let’s take a closer look at them.
How Do You Test Electrical Installations?
Electrical circuits are complex and technical networks which require specialist training to understand and test. Two main tests are required to ensure that electrical products are safe:
New Installation Testing:
All new electrical installations need to go through an initial testing procedure to be verified as safe to use. This test, which can only be performed by a qualified and competent electrician, evaluates the electrical installation. Factors such as the earthing arrangements, types of conductors, supply parameters and safety devices are all evaluated and documented.
Periodic Inspection Testing:
Existing electrical installations must, by law, be periodically inspected by an electrician to ensure that they are safe. These periodic inspections include both a visual and electrical inspection. The results of these tests should highlight any faults or hazards which either require attention or fail to comply with existing BS7671 standards.
The most common electrical testing procedures:
Protective Conductor Continuity:
It’s crucial that every protective conductor in a circuit meets current electrical standards. They also need to be correctly connected in order to remain safe. An electrician will carry out this test on all accessible and exposed conductors using an insulation tester.
Circuit Breaker Functionality:
All circuit breakers, RCDs and isolators need to be thoroughly tested to confirm that they can disconnect an electrical supply if necessary. An electrician will need to confirm the effectiveness of these devices and verify that they are correctly maintained and labelled.
Ring Circuit Testing:
Every ring circuit must be tested in order to confirm the continuity of each conductor in the circuit. This procedure is completed using a continuity tester to determine whether the ring circuit is complete. This test, however, is not considered crucial if previous test records are available. If changes have been made to the circuit, though, it becomes essential that this test is completed.
Polarity Testing:
Verifying the polarity of all circuits is an important procedure when it comes to testing electrical installations. The polarity must be measured at the point of installation, all accessible socket outlets, distribution boards and before any connection to the power supply. The best way to complete this test is by working with either a continuity tester or multi tester.
Electrical Installations Testing
The only way to confirm that electrical installations are safe is by combining all these test procedures. And, remember, these are not tests that can be completed by anyone. You need a fully qualified electrician to carry out these tests safely and accurately.
If you have any questions please visit our electrical testing page or just give us a call
Electrical Installation Services Call us now: 01923 587 586
Electrical Installation Services – Client Case Studies
Smoke Alarm Regulations
/0 Comments/in Safety, Tips & Advice /by Jeff EvansSmoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations
It goes without saying that inhaling smoke and carbon dioxide is incredibly harmful for the body. Smoke has the potential to inflame your airways and cause respiratory failure. And carbon monoxide poisoning can also cause severe damage to the body. High levels of carbon monoxide reduce the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream which in turn, stops oxygen reaching tissues and vital organs. The end result can eventually be brain damage, heart failure and even death.
Thankfully, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are available to protect you from these risks. However, it’s crucial that you and your alarms comply with the regulations.
What are the Key Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Regulations?
The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Regulations were introduced in 2015 to improve fire safety and protect homes in the private rented sector. The main regulations that you need to be aware of are the following:
All of these regulations are logical and sensible steps that can make a significant difference to the safety of all properties. But how do you make sure you comply with them?
How to Comply with the Regulations
It’s down to private landlords to install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in their rented properties, so they need to take the initiative to comply with the legislation. If you’re a landlord then you need to take note of the following:
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Legislation UK
By following the regulations to the letter, private landlords can rest safe in the knowledge that they will be providing properties which are safe for tenants. See the current Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations here
For more information or for help and installations contact us now
What is an RCD?
/0 Comments/in Electrical Testing, Safety, Tips & Advice /by Jeff EvansWhat is an RCD and How Does it Work?
RCDs, or residual current devices
A residual current device (RCD) is one of the best ways to protect yourself from electrical equipment. Accidents, after all, can happen. And the dangers of electricity mean that the consequences of these accidents can be severe and even fatal. By installing RCDs into your electrical systems you can significantly reduce the risk of electric shock.
Understanding what an RCD is and how it works could make a real difference to the safety of your electrical equipment, so let’s take a closer look at RCDs.
How Do RCDs Work?
An RCD is a safety device which is able to detect faults in electrical supplies and immediately switch the circuit off. This prevents the flow of electricity and provides protection against electric shocks. For example, a sudden surge of electricity will cause the RCD to trip out and shut down the current. As mentioned earlier, this reduces the risk of electric shock, but it also prevents the risk of electrical fires developing from faulty equipment.
Types of RCD
There are more than one type of RCD and the most common ones you will encounter are:
What would trip an RCD?
An RCD is considered a highly reliable device and will prevent electrical shocks in around 97% of all cases. Naturally, this is a success rate which is highly favourable to your well-being, but it is not a 100% guarantee. Therefore, you should always be careful when working with electrical applications and RCDs by following these best practices:
All RCDs will have a test button built into them so that you can test that they are working and will disconnect the circuit. You should run a test on each RCD every three months to confirm that they are in good working order. If the test button does not activate the trip then contact an electrician to investigate this further.
It’s important that any electrical installations (and the RCDs themselves) are checked every 10 years. Wiring can deteriorate over time and circuits can easily malfunction, so it’s crucial that you cover every base rather than relying on the promise of an RCD alone.
For more information on RCDs and the options available to you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our expert engineers.
Electrical Installation Services – Client Case Studies
How much do led lights save?
/0 Comments/in Tips & Advice /by Jeff EvansLED Bulbs: How Much Can You Save?
But how do LED Bulb costs compare to those of traditional lighting methods?
How Efficient are LED Lights?
The traditional method of lighting for homes has always centred around incandescent light bulbs. But advancements in technology have led to the emergence of LED bulbs as the new kings of lighting. Many people initially shied away from upgrading to LED bulbs. Change is always a difficult concept to get to grips with and many consumers have stuck to what they know. Especially when they see the price of LED bulbs. But that initial price tag can be misleading.
Do LED lights really save you money?
There’s no escaping the fact that LED bulbs cost more than traditional lighting methods. An 8W LED bulb, for example, costs around £3.50. Its incandescent equivalent – which would be rated at 60W – will cost just £1.50. That’s an 80% price difference. And that would appear to be significant. But it’s not as clear cut as the initial expense being the deciding factor.
LED bulbs, you see, have a wide range of benefits. And these benefits far outweigh those offered by traditional incandescent bulbs. Let’s take a closer look at how these benefits can lead to long term savings:
Is it worth switching to LED lighting?
An LED bulb is going to be the more expensive option when it comes to the initial purchase. But it turns out that LED lights are playing the long game in terms of price. With a lifespan that far outstrips that of an incandescent bulb, an Low energy bulb is a purchase which will outlast dozens of incandescent bulbs. And the low energy costs generated by LED guarantees you savings on your annual energy bill. Clearly, upgrading to LED is the way forwards in terms of lighting your home.
Learn more about how you can save money on your Industrial and Warehouse Power and Lighting
Common Fuse Box Problems
/0 Comments/in Safety /by Jeff EvansWhat are the Most Common Fuse Box Problems?
A faulty fuse box will soon make itself known. And it can lead to scenarios where stress levels skyrocket. This is why you need to be aware of the most common fuse box problems. With this information in hand you can take steps to both prevent and repair any issues with your fuse box.
What are the Symptoms of a Failing Fuse Box?
You don’t need to be a qualified electrician to understand when you have a bad fuse box on your hands. When an electrical fault begins to develop then the symptoms are noticeable and many. Make sure you keep an eye out for these two major symptoms:
If either of these symptoms is present then it’s likely that you’re working with a problematic fuse box.
The Most Common Fuse Box Problems
You’re now clear on what the symptoms of a faulty fuse box are, but what is it that’s causing them? Let’s take a closer look at the most common problems:
Dealing with Faulty Fuse Boxes
A faulty fuse box is an electrical system which needs to be treated with care and respect. And that’s why you should always use the services of a professional. Without the necessary knowledge and qualifications, you’re going to cause more damage and risk serious injury by delving deep into the inner workings of a fuse box.
Stay safe and work with a qualified professional who can fix your problem and stop it occurring again in the future.
Click here to learn more about electrical testing for fuse boxes
What is an EICR report?
/0 Comments/in Electrical Testing, Safety, Tips & Advice /by Jeff EvansEICR – Electrical Installation Condition Report
Why Do You Need an EICR?
Electrical installations, like any product, age over time and this deterioration can cause malfunctions. Sometimes the end result will be that the device is broken and simply won’t work. But, at other times, the malfunction will lend itself to something more serious such as electrocution. Therefore, it’s important that these electrical installations are regularly monitored. This objective should ensure that the device maintains a level of safety that protects anyone using it.
What is Involved in an EICR report?
When it comes to completing an EICR then there’s one thing you need before starting: a fully qualified electrician. The knowledge required to complete an EICR involves understanding the BS7671 IET Wiring Regulations and is not something you can quickly brush up on beforehand. So, you need an electrician in place. And once they begin an EICR they will look at the following:
Visual Inspection:
The first port of call will be to carry out a visual inspection to identify any issues caused by wear and tear e.g. damaged cables or power switches. These are often the most obvious risks present in electrical installations. Also, the presence of any outdated standards or equipment needs to be addressed during this section.
Electrical Testing:
This is comprised of two sections: live testing and dead testing. Live testing looks to test disconnection efficiency in the presence of an electrical fault and the suitability of residual current devices for preventing electrocution. Dead testing concentrates on investigating resistance, polarity and continuity of any circuitry in place.
How Often Do You Need to Complete an EICR?
Until recently, landlords were not legally obliged to complete an EICR. However, the government has announced that an EICR will soon become mandatory. This move has been taken to safeguard properties, tenants and landlords from the risk of serious injury and ensure safer living standards. The guidelines for an EICR will require that the report is completed every five years to guarantee a level of safety that takes into account any deterioration of electrical installations.
There are, of course, other instances in which it is recommended to complete an EICR such as:
For more information on whether you need an EICR, or what it involves, don’t hesitate to get in touch and speak to one of our expert engineers.
Electrical Installation Services – Client Case Studies