Testing – more info

Fixed Wire Testing or Periodic Inspection and Testing is carried out to create a report on the condition of the electrical wiring of a property which outlines any defects it may have that may prove to be a safety hazard. All defects are categorised depending on the severity of each one.

Owners of buildings have a duty of care to users and although the wiring of buildings is an area that is often taken for granted,  it can be a major cause of fire or injury through electric shocks.

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 states that:
- All systems shall at all times be of such construction as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger.
- All systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, such danger.
- Every work activity shall be carried out in such a manner as not to give rise, so far as is reasonably practicable, to danger.
- Any equipment provided under these Regulations for the purpose of protecting persons at work on or near electrical equipment shall be suitable for the use which it is provided.

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) recommends that to comply with the regulations, an inspection and testing programme should be undertaken at all places of work.

Periodic inspection and testing is necessary as electrical installations deteriorate due to a number of factors such as damage, wear, tear, corrosion, excessive electrical loading, ageing and environmental influences.

The requirements for fixed installation testing are contained within the IET 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671).

Conforming to PA Testing regulations will help you to ensure that the portable appliances in your business are safe and help you to avoid violations. PA Testing legislation was put into effect to ensure that all companies conform to the Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974, Electricity at Work Regulations of 1989, Provision and Use of Work Equipment regulations of 1998 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work regulations of 1999.

The current law requires that all employers maintain portable appliances and ensure their safety. This is done through testing of the appliances to safeguard against damage and to make certain that these items are safe for use.

PA Testing law requires that all landlords, employers and even self-employed individuals make sure that their portable electrical appliances are safe and are suitable and used for the purposes intended. These appliances should always be maintained properly and remain in good working order.

The guidelines are designed to make certain that the equipment is kept protected and is preserved through regular maintenance as well as inspections and periodic testing. Damage and faults can occur with all electrical equipment, which makes it essential that these items are tested regularly for safety.

PA Testing is done to ensure that all electrical equipment that is classified as “portable” is deemed safe for use.  PA Testing covers the visual examination of each appliance in addition to the actual lead that is used to power the appliance.

It is imperative that employers, landlords and self-employed individuals follow the rules to ensure that their workplaces are safe.