Thermal Imaging - FAQ's

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Thermal Imaging. Below we will feature the all important answers to to the most frequently asked questions that we have received during the time of providing this service.

Q. Why do I need to carry out Thermal Imaging?

A. The Electricity at Work Regulations of 1989 places a “duty of care” on employers and landlords to maintain electrical systems to prevent danger. In many cases traditional inspection and test work is not feasible; where supplies are impossible to isolate such as hospitals, prisons, factories etc. In conjunction with visual inspection and live testing Thermal Imaging is an effective way of locating potential problems within the electrical distribution system.

Q. Who is responsible?

A. Realistically, everybody has a duty to ensure the safety of others whilst at work; however, the duty holder will have ultimate responsibility for electrical safety and welfare of staff.

Q. What does it involve?

A. A qualified engineer will visit your premises with an infra-red camera. Damaged or faulty areas known as “hot spots” in an electric supply will generate heat; the camera will detect this, alerting the engineer to any potential problem.

Q. Who should do the work?

A. It is vital that this type of work is carried by a qualified and experienced electrical engineer. Generally fully qualified electricians who have experience of test and inspection, and have been trained and qualified specifically in Thermal Imaging work. When selecting your contractor, you should ask to see evidence of their qualifications and experience in this type of work.

Q. Will it impact on my workplace?

A. In theory there should be no impact whatsoever other than an engineer being present on site visiting each key electrical location. Providing you communicate with the engineer and provide access to each location your businesses operation will not be affected.

Q. What about reports and documentation?

A. After a proper Thermal Imaging survey you should receive a report that details the following:

• Installation details and characteristics

• Schedule of items tested and inspected

• A thermal image and standard digital image of each piece of equipment surveyed

• Recommendations for any further investigation required along with an explanation

Q. How much will it cost?

A. Thermal Imaging is usually charged using a day rate which will be dependant on location, access, time and volume of images taken. An engineer should comfortably survey 55 pieces of equipment in a day, providing access is arranged.

Q. What could happen if I don’t do it?

A. It’s another of those “better safe than sorry” professional Health & Safety jobs. It will cost you money but the alternative could be far more serious.

In the event of a fire or other damage to your property your “Thermal Imaging” certificate will add to evidence that you take your duty of care responsibilities seriously.

Q. How can Protest ES Ltd help?

A. We are an NICEIC accredited Electrical and Energy services supply company with 18 years experience. We know what to do and offer competitive quotes through our national team of qualified personnel.

For more information click here, or to speak to a member of our team about having Thermal Imaging provided at your commercial site, contact us today - 01604 696113.