Electrical Safety Testing – 4 Essentials for Businesses

Electrical safety testing is vital if you want to avoid unexpected costs, damage, disruption and even legal complications. But it’s not simply a case of phoning up the nearest contractor and telling them to test your site for electrical safety.

In this post, we’ll look at 4 essential considerations, covering what needs testing, when it needs testing, and who should be testing it.

1. Test your appliances

When you mention electrical safety testing, most people think about their appliances. With good reason too. Unsafe appliances equal an unsafe site, with the potential to cause shocks, start fires and even lead to fatalities.

In this case, portable appliance testing (PAT) is what you’re looking for. It’s required for appliances big and small – anything that’s plugged into your mains system or other power source. In short, a qualified contractor will visually inspect each appliance and perform electrical tests to make sure it’s completely safe.

2. And your installation

While appliances might be the first thing that spring to mind, don’t forget what they’re plugged into. We’re talking about your electrical installation, which needs to be inspected for defective work, shock risks, fire hazards, unsafe wiring and a lack of earthing – amongst other issues.

That’s where an electrical installation condition report (EICR) comes into play. This report includes the details of a thorough inspection and the test results, and detail any issues with how urgently action is needed.

3. Do it regularly

That’s the main areas of electrical safety testing covered – but how often are they required?

The good news is, you don’t have to do any guesswork. With both EICR and PAT testing, your contractor will recommend a suitable frequency based on the appliances and installation in question – including their condition, use and surrounding environment.

For EICR, you’ll be given a recommended date for the next inspection on your certificate. With PAT testing, you’ll find the due date for future tests in your inventory for each appliance that passes.

4. Get the right contractor

The final essential on our list is getting the right contractor to carry out electrical safety testing. While both PAT and EICR sound simple, they can soon become complicated if they’re done by the wrong person.

Look for:

• Experience – As an electrical contractor, with specific experience of the tests required.
• Knowledge – Should be familiar with British Standards and the relevant electrical safety legislation.
• Accreditations – NICEIC and SafeContractor are both good trust marks.

Book your electrical safety testing in Yorkshire

If you’re looking to stay on top of electrical safety, Volta Compliance can help with reliable testing and inspection services. Based in Leeds, our experienced team provide both PAT testing and EICR services across Yorkshire.

Get in touch with us today to arrange an inspection or talk more about your requirements. Email [email protected] or call 0113 436 0402.