Periodic Electrical Inspections For Commercial Premises Explained

It’s important to make sure your commercial properties’ electrical systems comply with British safety standards. But knowing what needs to be tested when and how often can be confusing. In this guide, we’ll explain what you need to know about periodic electrical inspections.

Health and safety must be a crucial concern for commercial property owners. Periodic inspections are an essential part of ensuring electrical safety in your property. Regular monitoring will reduce the risk of electrical fires, electric shocks and other hazards. Plus, it’ll satisfy your insurance requirements and keep you compliant.

What is an electrical installation condition report or periodic inspection report?

Basically, they’re the same thing. Previously, the findings of a periodic inspection report were known as just that – a Periodic Inspection Report (PIR). Now, it’s an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) which is more or less the same, but with a different format and name.

Commercial properties need electrical tests on fixed electrical installations at least every 5 years. For industrial installations, it’s every 3 years. Buildings open to the public and commercial spaces exposed to water (like swimming pools or changing rooms) need more frequent tests (1-3 years).

These tests must be carried out by a qualified electrician. They’re mandatory requirements in line with Electricity at Work Regulations and the IET Wiring Regulations BS 7671:2008. Many insurance companies require an EICR as part of their policy conditions too.

Electrical Installation Condition Report

The EICR fixed wiring tests identify potential electrical faults. After your electrical test, you’ll be issued with an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). The report lists the findings from the visual inspection along with recommendations. We also supply a quote to rectify any of the issues flagged or to bring the installation to a satisfactory condition (where necessary). The EICR keeps you compliant with relevant safety regulations and is proof that your electrical systems are deemed safe.

What does a periodic electrical inspection for a commercial property involve?

A qualified electrical engineer will conduct a visual inspection and go through a checklist for your commercial premises. The commercial electrical inspection checklist will vary depending on your commercial building type – office, warehouse, school, hospital and so on. A qualified, NICEIC certified electrician will identify the most appropriate one for your property.

It’s an involved process and it can be disruptive to business operations. Each distribution board and associated circuit has to be tested. Isolations need to be made which will switch off power at times. It’s often done outside of regular working hours to minimise disruption to your business.

The registered electrician will check for:

• electric shock or fire hazards
• overloaded or faulty electrical installations
• adequate earthing and bonding
• dated electrical installations
• overall condition of electrical wiring
• defective or damaged electrical circuits.

They’ll list any immediate electrical hazards and necessary remedial electrical works to bring your property up to British standards and wiring regulations. Once you approve any remedial work, you’ll be issued with an electrical safety certificate – the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).

How often should commercial premises be electrically tested?

As a commercial property or business owner, you need to make sure that all electrical installations are deemed safe for your employees and the public. It’s not just a nice to have, it’s a legal requirement under The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

A commercial electrical inspection by a competent person is needed at least every 3-5 years (more frequently for swimming pools and the like). However, it should also be done if there’s a change of occupancy, a change in usage or if there are potential issues or damage.

Keep your commercial property safe

There are steps that you can take as a commercial property owner to reduce risk and maximise safety. Be vigilant around your business.

• Look out for signs of potential issues

Prevent potential issues escalating into an electrical fire. Often, faulty electrical installations or components show visible signs of a problem. Look out for things like flickering lights, buzzing, smoke, outlet discolouration or electric shocks. Seek help from a qualified electrician to remedy any causes for concern.

• Use electrical equipment properly

Make sure to follow manufacturers’ guidelines when using electrical equipment and electrical installations. Simple best practice tips include not overloading electrical sockets, unplugging electrical equipment when not in use, PAT testing regularly and ensuring a safe distance between equipment that heats up.

• Train your employees

Health and safety is vital in the workplace. Ensure your employees know how to practice good electrical safety with regular training and updates. This will help to keep your people and property safe from electric hazards.

• Periodic electrical inspections

Keep all electrical installations compliant with safety regulations. Make sure an experienced, NICEIC approved electrical contractor inspects and checks your property regularly.

Let Prolec keep your business safe and compliant

Let our experienced, qualified team carry out periodic inspections of your electrical systems to give you peace of mind and ensure your business meets its statutory and insurance requirements. Our rigorous inspection and testing processes span periodic testing of fixed wiring, emergency lighting, fire alarms and PAT testing of electrical equipment all to NICEIC standards.

We’re sensitive to our client’s needs and work together to achieve the best results, often to a tight schedule. That can involve careful planning to minimise disruption to operations. We’re agile in approach and firmly focused on providing the service you need.

Get in touch today to book a no obligation, free survey and quote