Legal Requirement

All businesses use electricity to a greater or lesser extent. Although electrical incidents are uncommon, the consequences can be fatal. Prevention is therefore essential.

Under the 'Electricity at Work Regulations 1989' there is a requirement relating to the maintenance of electrical equipment. Regulation 4(2) of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 states "As may be necessary to prevent danger, all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable such danger". Systems include portable appliances and fixed installations.

Protecting yourself, your staff and your business is easy if you use care and common sense.

By Looking! This is the most important maintenance precaution. Faults or damage can often be found by looking (visual inspection).

If you are in any doubt whatsoever regarding the checking of the electrical system do not proceed. SEEK EXPERT ADVICE.

With regard to the mains wiring, the Institute of Electrical Engineers  (IEE) Regulations 16th Edition, (BS 7671) give recommendations that the electric's in such premises as offices and shops are tested every 5 years.

It is important that a competent electrician or firm of electrical contractors, (preferably registered with the National Inspection Council, (NICEIC), or the Electrical Contractors Association, (ECA)), carry out this testing.

Portable Appliance Checklist

The following checklist may be of some use to assess if any immediate action is required, especially if you have to answer 'yes' to any of the questions.

This checklist must only be carried out by a sensible (competent) member of staff, if they have been given enough knowledge and training.

View the Portable Appliance Checklist 24.5kb   23kb

Electrical System Checklist

The following check list may be of use to assess if any immediate action is required. The answers to all questions should be Yes!

View the Electrical System Checklist 23.0kb 23kb

Further information can be obtained form the Health and Safety Executive leaflet Maintaining portable electrical equipment in offices and other low-risk environments