Domestic Electrical Installer – Section 1 Part A, Module 6: Electrical Inspection, Testing & Documentation

Pre-Work Survey: Core Questions and Decision Points

• Earthing Arrangement

  • Identify whether the supply is TN-S, TN-C-S (PME), TN-C, TT, or IT.
  • Determine the supply characteristics (nominal voltage, prospective fault current, Ze, supplier’s service position).
  • Significance:
  • Influences disconnection times, Zs limits, and whether additional protective devices (e.g.
    RCDs) are mandatory.

• Maximum Disconnection Time (BS 7671)

  • For final circuits 60 A supplying socket outlets ≤32\,\text{A}: 0.4\,\text{s} (TN systems).
  • For TT systems: 0.2\,\text{s} (for the same circuits) or 0.4\,\text{s} if RCD-protected.
  • Distribution circuits: 5\,\text{s} (TN) or 1\,\text{s} (TT).
  • Disconnection time ensures that touch-voltage U_T remains below safe thresholds during earth faults.

• Isolation & Switching Requirements

  • Provide a main isolator: manually operated, mechanically linked, capable of switching all live conductors.
  • Verify functional switching devices for normal operation (e.g. switches, plug & socket, contactors).
  • Check for devices for emergency switching (e.g. emergency stop push-buttons).
  • Confirm safe isolation procedure:
  1. Identify circuit.
  2. Isolate using a secure, lockable device.
  3. Prove dead with a GS38-compliant voltage tester.
  4. Retest the instrument on a known live source.

• Required Labels & Notices (Typical Examples)

  • Main switch/fuse labels (identification of circuits, supply type).
  • RCD test instructions (“Test quarterly” etc.).
  • Bonding connection points.
  • Periodic inspection & testing sticker (next due date).
  • Warning notices for dual supply or photovoltaic back-feed if present.

• Earth Fault Loop Impedance Z_s Check

  • Measure Zs = Ze + (R1 + R2).
  • Verify measured value < maximum tabulated Z_s in BS 7671 Appendix 3 (adjust for ambient T\alpha).
  • Lower Z_s ⇒ faster protective-device operation.

• Need for RCD or RCBO?

  • Mandatory if:
  • Earthing system is TT (main protective measure).
  • Socket outlets ≤32\,\text{A} for general use (unless labelled & documented for a specific item).
  • Cables buried <50\,\text{mm} in walls without earthed metallic covering.
  • Bathrooms, shower rooms, outdoors, etc.
  • RCBO offers combined overcurrent + residual current protection with individual circuit discrimination.

• Special Locations (Section 7 of BS 7671)

  • Bathrooms (701), swimming pools/fountains (702), saunas (703), camping/marinas (708/709), medical locations (710).
  • Each imposes extra IP ratings, RCD sensitivities (e.g. 30\,\text{mA}), SELV or PELV requirements.

• Risks & Hazards Identified

  • Direct contact with live parts during testing.
  • Stored energy (capacitors) in equipment under test.
  • Arc-flash or short-circuit when probing conductors.
  • Inadvertent reconnection by others (lack of control/LOTO).
  • Trip hazards from test leads, ladders, confined spaces.

Safety Responsibilities of the Electrical Inspector

• Legal & Standard Requirements

  • Comply with Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.
  • Follow BS 7671, GS38 (HSE Guidance Note) for test probes/leads.

• Safe Working Procedures

  • Always apply the safe isolation routine before touching conductors.
  • Use dual working (second competent person) for high-risk tests.
  • Ensure test instruments:
  • Carry a valid calibration certificate.
  • Meet CAT III/IV ratings suitable for supply category.

• Environmental Checks

  • Adequate lighting, access, ventilation.
  • Absence of water/moisture where equipment is opened.
  • Confirm structural integrity (no asbestos disturbance).

• Documentation Before Testing

  • Review previous EICR or minor works certificates.
  • Produce a risk assessment & method statement (RAMS).
  • Record supply parameters (voltage, Ze, PFC/PSSC) to establish reference values.

Testing Process: Overview & Context

• Pre-Work Survey

  • Combines visual inspection + desk study of drawings, O&M manuals.
  • Determines what tests are required (continuity, insulation resistance, polarity, RCD, functional).

• Sequence (Typical)

  1. Continuity of protective conductors.
  2. Ring final circuit continuity.
  3. Insulation resistance.
  4. Polarity.
  5. Earth-fault loop impedance.
  6. RCD/RCBO testing (trip-time, trip-current).
  7. Functional tests (switching, indicating devices, interlocks).

• Example Numerical Reference

  • If a 32 A Type B MCB protecting a socket circuit in a TN-CS system requires a 0.4\,\text{s} disconnection, maximum Zs from BS 7671 Table 41.3 is 1.37\,\Omega; measured Zs must be <1.37\,\Omega.

Ethical, Practical & Professional Considerations

• Duty of Care: Inspector must refuse to energise an installation that presents danger, regardless of commercial pressure.
• Record Keeping: Accurate test results form part of statutory documents that may be subpoenaed in litigation.
• Continuous Competence: Keep skills & knowledge current with CPD, amendments to BS 7671, and manufacturer updates.
• Client Education: Explain findings (e.g. need for RCDs) and residual risks in plain language.