IET reports that inadequate electrical inspections are putting lives at risk
In a recent article published by the Institute of Engineering and Technology (E&T Magazine August 2022) it reports that inadequate inspections on the safety of wiring in buildings are increasing the risk of fire.
The Electrical Standards in the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Regulations in 2020 were introduced to ensure landlords have their properties inspected every 5 years and an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) be issued in accordance with BS7671. The PRS regulations place responsibility on landlords to have their properties inspected and tested by a ‘qualified and competent’ person.
The E&T article reports that many electricians are carrying out inadequate tests and, in some cases, incorrectly passing unsafe properties. EICRs should be approved by a Qualified Supervisors (QS) who is registered with a competent person scheme such as those run by the NICEIC and NAPIT as recognition that they are competent to conduct and approve EICRs. The report in the E&T magazine cites examples of QS’ simply approving EICRs without checking their correctness.
Electrical fires affect over 20,00 homes in the UK every year. EICRs are designed to ensure the risk of an electrical fire is minimised such that electrical defects are detected before they can cause a fire. If EICRs are not being conducted correctly or not checked properly by a competent electrician, then this increases the risk of a potential electrical fire.
The National Fires Chiefs Council (NFCC) strongly recommends that electrical inspections are undertaken by qualified and competent professionals. The E&T article quotes Andy Slaughter MP who is campaigning for better building standards in the aftermath of Grenfell as saying, ‘Without competent electricians and adequate systems of inspection the risks of fire will remain.’
The de-facto qualification for inspection and testing and periodic inspection reporting is the City and Guilds 2391 (or its EAL equivalent) and is recognised throughout industry as evidence that those that hold this qualification have achieved an appropriate level of training in inspection and testing of electrical installations. Any electricians wishing to carry out inspection and testing and issuing EICRs will be expected to hold this qualification along with having gained relevant experience to be deemed competent to issue EICRs.
Here at PTT we offer courses and assessments in the C&G 2391 qualification or its EAL equivalent. Our experienced trainers will provide professional support and guidance to electricians wishing to gain this important qualification. Together with detailed instruction and practice on the correct methods and procedures for completing an EICR to an acceptable standard as well as preparing students for the 2391 formal assessments which must be passed to achieve the qualification.
Further details of the qualification and courses can be found on our dedicated inspection and testing courses web page:
Electrical Inspection and Testing | City & Guilds 2391 (proactivetechnicaltraining.co.uk)
