To make things a little easier, this post will run through all of the basics when it comes to electrical testing for businesses, including what needs testing, why it’s needed, and how often it’s necessary.
The first factor to consider when it comes to business electrical testing is your electrical installation. Put simply, this is the electrical system that distributes electricity throughout your site – including wiring, circuits and sockets.
The relevant test in this case is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), which comprises a thorough inspection of your installation along with a certificate detailing any required or recommended work.
Frequency: The frequency for EICR testing can be anywhere between 1-5 years. The recommended timeframe will be outlined in your report.
Next there’s your appliances. This includes everything from small equipment like kettles and computers up to large appliances like refrigerators and photocopiers – anything that is plugged into a wall socket or generator.
These items should all be checked by Portable Appliance Testing (PAT), which involves a visual inspection and electrical test. Safe items will be documented with a due date for their next test, while failed items will be highlighted for urgent repair.
Frequency: The duration between PAT tests depends on the type of equipment, its environment, and how it’s used. A qualified professional will recommend the next due date for testing equipment as part of the test.
Safety equipment is another key aspect of business electrical testing. While you might not use them anywhere near as often, your fire alarms and emergency lighting need to be on standby at all times for your business.
You can perform a visual inspection yourself by shutting off power to activate your emergency lights, or an audible inspection by pressing the test button on your fire alarm. However, the only way to know for sure whether they’re ready for action is to have them inspected, tested and serviced regularly by professionals.
Frequency: Fire alarm servicing is recommended twice a year, while emergency lights should have a full three-hour duration test at least once a year.
Electrical testing has a number of clear benefits for any business. First and foremost, it makes sure your electrical installation and equipment are safe to use, giving you peace of mind that anyone working on your site is safe.
Doing so will keep you compliant with the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989) and Health and Safety at Work Act (1974). Your business will have documented evidence of the steps you’ve taken to make sure your workplace is safe when it comes to electrics.
On top of all that, it keeps your electrics in full working order. A proactive approach will reduce costly callouts as well as eliminating the disruption that comes from electrical faults.
If you want to keep your business safe, efficient and compliant, speak to the team at Volta Compliance. We provide professional electrical testing and inspection to businesses in Leeds and the surrounding areas.
From your installation and appliances to fire alarms and lighting, we’ll make sure everything is tested, inspected and up to scratch, so you can focus on what you do best.
Call us on 0113 397 1361 or email [email protected].
