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#1 Posted : 20 January 2009 11:29:00(UTC)
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Posted By Mike Morgan Hello All, Can anyone tell me how often should a porta cabin on a construction site should be electrically tested as they have a 230v supply. I understand it is every 12 months...... If this is the case, can anyone tell me where it is written down in an ACOP etc. Many thanks
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#2 Posted : 20 January 2009 11:39:00(UTC)
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Posted By Philby' as the cabin, and associated equipment, eg kettles, fridges etc are moved about, subject to the element and abuse by users....every time its moved and, if static for any length of time, every 6 mths if its used for high use, 12 mths otherwise...this was just what was recommended when we had a hygiene unit on site (toilet/shower/fridge/microwave and kettle)
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#3 Posted : 20 January 2009 13:26:00(UTC)
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Posted By Chris Pope I'd undreline every time the cabin is moved. A guy was killed by a failure to test. The foot of the cabin was sitting on the supply and the "electrician" disconnected the RCD. The door handle ultimately earthed thro a site worker.
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#4 Posted : 20 January 2009 13:48:00(UTC)
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Posted By David Rodger There are two distinct points to consider here. The portable electrical appliances within the cabin and the fixed electrical installation of the cabin itself. The frequency of the fixed installation will be covered under BS 7671 (IEE wiring regulations) from memory (but don't quote me) I think it is every 3 months for temporary installations. There should be a sticker on the incoming supply stating when the next test is due. The portable appliances (if only used within the cabin) should be as per normal HSE guidance. Hope this helps
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#5 Posted : 20 January 2009 15:46:00(UTC)
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Posted By GeoffB4 Agree with Chris, every time the cabin is moved - an essential requirement. For static cabins with no movement I'd say annually but this does depend on the working and external environment as well and it may be at shorter intervals.
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#6 Posted : 21 January 2009 04:25:00(UTC)
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Posted By David Rodger Yes the cabin should be tested every time it is moved as this would constitute a new installation. BS7671 states that every new electrical installation shall be tested or if alterations are carried out to that installation. It also states quite clearly in the guidance tables that the frequency for temporary installations is 3 months not annually.
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#7 Posted : 21 January 2009 09:24:00(UTC)
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Posted By GeoffB4 As you say they are 'guidance'. As I said it depends on the external and working environment. A mobile but fixed (if you see what I mean) cabin, would generally carry a lower risk and intervals would be set accordingly.
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