Purpose of the inspection We will only conduct subsequent testing of a circuit if the
The inspection will verify as far as is reasonably practicable source and the point of utilisation are reasonably obvious
that the electrical installation is in a safe condition and
a thorough visual inspection of those parts of the
complies with the requirements of the current edition of the
electrical installation not concealed, including an internal
BS 7671 IEE Wiring Regulations and the Electricity at Work
inspection of all switchgear, and distribution boards.
Regulations (1989)/Electricity at Work Regulations (Northern
Ireland) 1991. Where practicable the visual inspection will also include
the following:
Preparation
Only Engineer Surveyors who are authorised to examine Joints and connections
electrical installations will carry out this work. After following This will be a random sample inspection to verify integrity
our standard procedures for entry to the site we will appraise for example, signs of overheating.
the installation.
Conductors (including protective conductors)
The Engineer Surveyor will:
This will verify suitability, condition and means of
discuss and agree isolation issues (agreeing when systems identification, etc.
will be isolated and in what order)
Flexible cables and cords
establish whether working during unsociable hours will be
This will verify suitability and condition.
necessary and agree any assistance
accessories such as socket outlets, light switches and Note: we will only remove the front cover of an MCB board
fixed spur etc and enclosures, including a 10% random when the supply to the board has been isolated either at the
internal inspection integral main isolator or at a remote supply point. We will
open the hinged door of a fuse board with the board
labelling/marking up of distribution boards and switchgear
energised but will isolate the board before removing any
inadequate/non existent marking will be noted as a
insulating barriers.
defect. The Engineer Surveyor will not be able to
undertake any such identification and labelling work.
Testing Polarity
Where possible we will carry out tests in the following order We will conduct tests to ensure:
but may make changes for operational reasons.
the Polarity is correct at the consumer unit/
distribution board
Continuity testing
Single pole control and protective devices are connected
Continuity of protective conductors
in the phase conductors only (10% random sample)
We will test continuity from the distribution point to all
exposed conductive parts. On circuits with more than one conductors are correctly connected to all accessible
accessory, we will measure R2 at each accessory and note socket outlets and a 10% random sample of other
the highest value. Where this value is below 1 ohm and is accessories/equipment.
acceptable, we will record the default value of <1.0 ohm
in the schedule of test results. Where the value is either Earth electrode resistance
unacceptable or above 1 ohm, we will record the actual value. Using an earth electrode resistance tester we will test each
earth rod or group of rods separately, with the test links
Continuity of bonding conductors removed and with the installation isolated from the supply.
If the full length of the conductor is not visible (and the If the electrode under test is being used in conjunction with
system can be isolated), we will disconnect the bonding an RCD, we may use an earth loop impedance tester as
conductors for this test. If not, we will test them by an alternative.
continuity meter as connected.
Earth fault loop impedance and prospective
Continuity of ring circuit conductors fault current (PSC)
With the distribution board isolated, we will carry out a basic We will carry out the following earth loop impedance and
test to check for continuity of the ring circuit. prospective fault current tests:
Additional requirement for supplementary protection The inspection and testing of installed machinery is limited to:
Leakage current flowing equivalent to 500% of the rated
(a) an external visual inspection for electrical safety, excluding
tripping current.
all control and operational functions
Operation of devices for isolation (b) earth continuity test to all exposed conductive parts.
and switching
Unless otherwise requested, the following specialist areas will
We will verify the manual operation of circuit breakers,
be subject to separate contracts and will not therefore form
isolators and switching devices. Also a check will be made of
part of the inspection and test.
loose parts of handles, indication (on/off, etc) and clearance
of switch blades. (a) Emergency lighting systems.
Limitations (g) H.V. Power Systems ie. in excess of 1000 volts ac.
Zurich Risk Services is not responsible for the design or
(h) Fire detection and alarm systems.
installation of the electrical system covered by the periodic
inspection and is therefore not responsible for any of those (i) Data/Telecommunication systems.
aspects of work over which it has no control.
ZE0067.01 (125751A01) (10/08) ZCA