Posted By Andy Cooper Can anyone point me in the right direction? (On a Friday afternoon prior to a bank holiday)! I have searched hi and low for information/advice regarding the frequency for periodical testing of fixed electrical installations (sockets, wiring loops, power supplies etc. (Not machinery and definitely not portable appliances). I find advice on PAT, machinery, cinemas/theatres and more PAT, but nothing relating to electrical components in a factory type environment. Any assistance would be a help.

Posted By Robert S Woods 3. What is a periodic inspection? A periodic inspection carried out by a competent electrician is an inspection to determine the condition of an electrical installation. The purpose is to identify, so far as reasonably practicable, any factors impairing the safety of the electrical installation, and to make appropriate recommendations for remedial action. The electricianl will issue a periodic inspection report (PIR), which is a report on an existing electrical installation. See Explaining PIRs for more information. The Approved Contractor carrying out a periodic inspection will check the electrical installation against the current edition of BS 7671. 4. When does a Periodic Inspection need to be carried out? It is recommended that periodic inspection and testing is carried out: • for tenanted properties at each change of occupancy • at least every 10 years for a domestic installation • at least every 5 years for a commercial installation. The Landlords and Tenant Act 1995 requires landlords of properties with short leases to keep the electrical installations in repair and proper working order. The NICEIC recommends landlords arrange for periodic inspection and testing to be carried out by an Approved Contractor at the intervals shown above. Periodic inspection and testing should be carried out more frequently for other types of electrical installations. For example: • 3 years for caravans • 3 years for industrial premises • 1 year for swimming pools • 3 months for construction sites.

Posted By Christopher Kelly Hi Andy - the minimum recommended is 5 yearly for fixed installation, but this is just a recommendation. It is down to risk assessment. Definitely no longer than 5 years but you may wish to increase the frequency (indeed it would be sensible to) if your installation is affected by (eg) dust, water, heat etc, etc). Let me know more detail and I can give you some more advice. Chris Kelly