Electrical Testing

Different Types Of Electrical Testing

Electrical testing is a legal requirement that landlords and business owners must adhere to. They need to be able to demonstrate that their electrical systems are safe to use, and the simplest way to prove this is through electrical testing such as:

• Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR): this report is used to analyse a building’s electrical and wiring systems to determine their condition. The first step involves completing a visual assessment to pick up on any visual clues that the systems are damaged e.g. cracked wiring, signs of burning and any breaks in the system. The next step delves deeper and involves dead testing the wires and investigating the quality of failsafe systems alongside earthing and bonding checks. If your system is deemed to be compliant with regulations, the electrician will then issue your EICR.

• Portable Appliance Testing (PAT): one of the most recognisable electrical tests is the PAT test. This involves individual electrical devices – such as kettles, computers and portable heaters – being tested to identify any faults. These tests include checking any plugs, plug sockets, cables and appliances which are powered by your electrical supply. Once these devices are shown to have passed continuity, insulation and lead polarity tests, an electrician will be able to confirm they are safe to use.

It’s important to bear in mind that whilst an EICR will only need completing every five years, PAT tests should be completed on stationary and IT equipment every four years while extension leads and portable equipment should be tested every two years.