However, proactive management of electrical systems is essential for the safety of your employees, the longevity of equipment and the uninterrupted operation of your business.
In this guide, we’ll outline the important steps for conducting electrical safety checks in your business – and help you keep your workplace compliant and safe.
Electrical systems are an integral part of your business. From lighting and heating to computers and machinery, these systems power everything you need to work safely and efficiently. However, they can often deteriorate over time, leading to the risk of electrical fires, equipment malfunctions or even personal injuries.
Regular safety checks are necessary to identify and mitigate problems before they escalate. By proactively checking your electrical systems, you’ll be minimising the risk of the worst happening to you.
Beyond safety, regular checks are a legal requirement under UK law. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 mandates that all electrical installations in a workplace must be maintained in a safe condition. Failure to comply can result in severe penalties, including fines and potential prosecution, as well as damage to your business’s reputation.
When conducting electrical safety checks, it’s essential to focus on several key areas within your business:
This includes the fixed electrical wiring and systems within your building, such as fuse boards, circuit breakers and distribution boards. These installations should be routinely inspected for signs of wear, damage or overloading.
Any equipment that is plugged into the electrical system, from computers to kettles, should be tested frequently. This process, known as Portable Appliance Testing (PAT), checks that equipment is safe to use and doesn’t risk causing an electrical shock or fire.
Emergency lighting and general lighting systems must be checked to ensure they are functioning correctly, especially in the event of a power outage. Faulty lightning can pose a significant safety risk, particularly in emergencies.
Electrical safety checks should also include fire alarms and smoke detectors. These systems are critical for early detection of fires, allowing for timely evacuation and minimising damage.
Proper earthing and bonding are essential for the safe operation of electrical systems, preventing electric shocks by testing that metal parts do not become live if a fault occurs.
The frequency of electrical safety checks can vary depending on the type of equipment and the environment in which you use it. However, general guides are as follows:
A Periodic Inspection Report (PIR) or Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) should be undertaken at least every five years for commercial properties. However, more frequent inspections may be necessary in environments with higher risk, such as factories or workshops. A reliable contractor will recommend the necessary period for ongoing inspections.
PAT testing frequency depends on the risk level associated with the equipment. For example, high-risk equipment, such as power tools used on construction sites, may require testing every 3-6 months. In contrast, low-risk items such as office computers and kettles may only need testing annually or bi-annually.
Emergency lighting should be tested monthly, with a more thorough inspection annually. Fire detection systems should be inspected and tested by a qualified technician at least twice a year.
Different methods are used to carry out electrical safety checks, each suited to the specific type of inspection:
Visual inspection – The first step in any electrical safety check is a visual inspection. This typically involves examining the condition of wiring, plugs, sockets and appliances for any visible signs of damage, wear or tampering.
Testing with instruments – After the visual inspection, various instruments are used to test the integrity and functionality of the electrical system. For example, an insulation-resistance tester checks the insulation of wiring, while earth continuity testers ensure that earthing is effective.
Thermal imaging – Thermal imaging cameras are used to detect hotspots in electrical systems, which can indicate potential faults. This method is non-invasive and allows for early detection of issues that might not be visible to the naked eye.
PAT testing – Portable appliance testing involves checking the safety of portable electrical equipment. A PAT tester is used to measure earth continuity, insulation resistance and whether the appliance is correctly wired.
EICR – An Electrical Installation Condition Report involves a comprehensive inspection of the fixed electrical installations within a property. This report will highlight any areas of concern and provide recommendations for remedial work.
While electrical safety checks might not be at the top of your priorities, there are numerous benefits to your business of having regular checks, including:
By identifying potential issues early, you can take corrective action before they lead to costly repairs or dangerous situations. But that’s not all – a proactive approach can extend the lifespan of your electrical systems and equipment, saving you money now and in future.
Regular checks guarantee that your business remains compliant with important UK electrical safety regulations. Not only will this help you avoid legal penalties, but it also demonstrates your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
Electrical faults can occur at any time and are always inconvenient. They can cause significant downtime, disrupt your operations and impact productivity. But regular checks can help minimise the risk of unexpected failures and keep your business running smoothly.
The biggest benefit of regular electrical safety checks is the safer environment they create for your employees, clients or customers. By keeping your electrical systems safe and well-maintained, you greatly reduce the risk of accidents, injuries and fires.
Knowing that your electrical systems are regularly inspected and maintained gives you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on running your business without worrying about potential hazards.
Electrical safety checks are an essential aspect of maintaining a safe and efficient business environment. By understanding what needs checking, how often, and the methods used, you can make sure that your business is compliant with UK regulations and protects everyone on your premises.
At Volta Compliance, we are committed to helping businesses stay safe and compliant. Contact us today to arrange your next electrical safety check – call 0113 397 1361 or email [email protected].
