Electrical Testing & Remedial Services

Electrical Testing

Over time, electrical installations and systems will begin to deteriorate through age and wear. This deterioration has the potential to become a risk if the faults are not caught in time; hazards such as electric shocks, short-circuits and electrical fires all become a very real threat. Regular checks are therefore of paramount importance to ensure safety and are mandatory by law under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and IET Wiring Regulations, BS 7671:2008.

The frequency of this testing varies greatly by the environment and nature of the building, but the regulations, which set the standard for electrical installations in the UK, recommends the following:

Homeowners – Should have an EICR test every 10 years (unless the property has a swimming pool, in which case the recommendation is for testing every year)

Landlords – Should have an EICR test every year or whenever there is a change of tenancy

Business Owners –  Should have a complete EICR test every 5 years, or 20% yearly.

What is an EICR?

An electrical inspection condition report (EICR) is an in-depth assessment of the condition of the fixed wiring and accessories of an electrical installation, to BS7671, with the report categorising the competency of any faulty electrics into one of three brackets:

C1 - Danger exists and immediate attention is required
C2 - Potential for danger and remedial action is needed urgently
C3 - Improvement to your electrical system is recommended but not required. This is the only classification code that can appear on a report and have it still pass the EICR.

Lightning Safety Systems are qualified to carry out EICR testing and electrical inspection, as well as any subsequently required remedial works of your premises, to ensure there are no present dangers. In addition, for any system failure we offer a 24/7 emergency callout service for all customers, keeping you safe, compliant, and able to trade.

Remedial Works

Typical remedial works include replacements and upgrades to distribution boards and to lighting circuits as well as replacement and or new sockets and light fittings and general fault finding.

Portable appliance testing (PAT)

Portable appliance testing (PAT) is the term used to describe the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. Most electrical safety defects can be found by visual examination, but some types of defect can only be found through testing by a competent person, required at appropriate intervals depending upon the type of equipment and the environment in which it is used.

When undertaking combined inspection and testing, a greater level of knowledge and experience is needed than for a simple visual examination, and the qualified person will need:

• The right equipment to do the tests
• The ability to use this test equipment properly
• The ability to properly understand the test results

Pat Testing

Lightning’s Safety Systems approved electricians can validate the safety of your portable appliances, making sure to identify any potential issues and increase the longevity of your items, saving you money and keeping you compliant.