Electrical Test and Inspection – Essential Guidance for Schools, Colleges and Universities

Periodic Electrical Test and Inspection for Schools, Colleges and Universities - Why it is necessary

Over time all electrical wiring systems within buildings deteriorate with age and use. To help ensure the safety of pupils, staff and visitors, it is essential that a Periodic Electrical Test and Inspection be carried out every 5 years at a minimum:

A structured programme of Electrical Testing and Inspection will:

• Find potential electric shock risks and fire hazards in your electrical system
• Identify any defective or sub standard electrical works
• Highlight any missing earthing or protective conductors
• Identify any evidence of the electrical system being overloaded
• Identify wear, deterioration and breakages
• Identify loose and missing parts and fixings

Periodic Electrical Test and Inspection for Schools, Colleges and Universities - Your Obligations

Electrical systems and appliances have the capacity to seriously injure or even kill, as well as being one of the most common causes of fire. Despite the significant risks associated with electrical faults many installations are unsatisfactory and present a direct threat to building users.

Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, "duty holders" have a "legal responsibility to protect those working or using their premises".

Preventing harm by "managing and controlling risk" is core to meeting this legal obligation. Failure to identify and effectively minimise risks with your electrical systems can lead to unnecessary costs, serious disruption and injury.

This is why electrical systems should have electrical test & inspections carried out at regular intervals. The frequency for most schools is:

• Every 5 years for Fixed Wiring
• Every year for most Portable Appliances

Additionally, in the event of an electrical incident, your defence will rely heavily upon your records, the depth and accuracy of your inspections and the competency of the organisations who undertake the work.

Quantec Periodic Electrical Test and Inspection - What to Expect

Quantec Test Engineers use specialist testing equipment is used to carry out the testing of electrical cables, socket outlets, lighting controls, lighting points, distribution boards and other technical elements as laid down in BS 7671: 2008.

A complete shutdown of the electrical system is required for (on average) half an hour and a series of mini isolations are also required. Our Test Engineers will liaise with the Site Agent / Caretaker to ensure that disruption is kept to a minimum.

During the testing, any dangerous items are immediately brought to the attention of the Site Agent / Caretaker and other appropriate personnel.

Following the test and inspection you will be provided with a detailed report showing:

• an overview of the building’s electrical system
• test results
• defects found - rated 1 (critical/urgent) to 4
• extensive recommendations about the work which needs to be carried out to bring the electrical system up to the required standard.

Portable Applicance Testing / PAT Testing for Schools, Colleges and Universities - Your Obligations

Portable appliances are, generally, equipment that has a lead (cable) and plug and which can be moved around, e.g.:

• fans
• photocopiers
• desktop computers
• interactive whiteboards
• overhead projectors

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT Testing) should also be carried out on a regular basis - usually every year - to prevent electric shocks which can be fatal and to avoid the possibility of electrical fires.

Quantec PAT Testing - What to Expect

Fully-qualified PAT Testing Engineers undertake the testing of your portable appliances to the highest standard complying with IEE / IET Regulations.

Many of the problems identified are solved immediately by our engineers: e.g., re-termination of plug top cables and replacement of standard fuses and plug tops.

Results from the tests are downloaded at our office and a detailed report is compiled. This report includes:

• a record of each asset tested
• full test results
• a report of any failed items
• a PAT Testing Certificate