What is a Fixed Wiring Inspection: Your definitive guide to commercial testing

Testing of fixed electricals is a common health and safety measure in publicly accessible places. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) demand high levels of inspection and reporting on all fixed electricals. This is done to inspect the installation for any deficiencies or safety issues in accor-dance with British Standards and Codes of Practice.

Fixed Wire Testing - what is involved?

All of the electrical installations in a building are inspected and tested as part of fixed wire testing to make sure they are secure and compatible with rules. This does not contain plugged-in equipment, only main panels, distribution boards, lighting, plug sockets, and air conditioning. Visual inspections and electrical tests are performed on all of the building's systems during testing.

Is Fixed Wire Testing a legal requirement?

According to the Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974, it is the responsibility of every employer to ensure the welfare and health of all of their employees at work, to the extent that this is practically possible. The testing of fixed wires is a crucial component of that requirement.

The Electricity at Work Regulations of 1989, which deal with electrical safety testing, hold employers accountable for ensuring the health and safety of both employees and site visitors. The HSE (Health & Safety Executive) has legal authority to enforce this. By hiring a company like Equiptest to conduct a fixed wire inspection of their building, an employer may prove compliance with the rules.

How often should fixed wiring be inspected?

The environment in which your electrical systems are located will determine how frequently your property needs to be inspected. The maximum interval between inspections for industrial properties is three years. The most time you can spend is five years if you own a store, a retail location, or a business office. Annual inspections are necessary for electrical installations that are near water, such as a swimming pool or spa, as these installations are more prone to degrade quickly than those that are not.

What evidence do we need to show compliance?

An EICR (Electrical Inspection Condition Report) is generated once a fixed wire test is finished. Your compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974 and the Electricity at Work Regulations of 1989 is ensured by a positive EICR report.

The Duty Holder, who often orders inspections, should get an Electrical Installation Condition Report detailing the findings and scope of the testing. The scope of the work, restrictions, specifics of flaws and hazardous circumstances, inspection dates, and test results must all be included in the report.

How can Protest ES Ltd help me?

As some of the installation must be temporarily isolated during fixed wire testing, there may be some disruption. Therefore, to minimise disruption, it might be best to schedule electrical testing for after regular business hours.

With our accommodating service, we can adjust to your needs and, if necessary, provide after-hours site inspections. In addition to a periodic inspection report (electronic/log book), we can offer schematic drawings.

We can offer complete NICEIC and ECA certification because we are qualified, experienced contractors. If any repairs are necessary after testing, we can carry them out for you to a high standard. All of our engineers have the necessary City & Guilds certifications and are prepared to work to BS7671.

To help ensure that you and your business are complying with all relevant electrical safety legislation, Protest ES Ltd are happy to meet with you at your business premises and give you some guidance and advice.

Please don't hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team, you can contact us here: 01604 696113 | enquiries@protestesltd.co.uk.