What's Involved in EET

There are several steps involved in electrical equipment testing, it will begin with a formal visual test which includes the following:

1. Check the plug casing itself for any visual damage.
2. Remove the cover from the plug.
3. Check for the correct fuse rating.
4. Check that all the wiring is correct and that there is no excess of wire at each terminal post.
5. Check that all of the terminals and connections are fully secure.
6. Check for any signs of overheating or discoloration.
7. Check for any misuse, including any liquid or foreign matter within.
8. Check the cable is securely held within the plug via the cord grips.

Once the visual test is complete and everything is satisfactory, a full electrical combined test will be completed which covers:

1. Complete earth continuity test.
2. Complete insulation resistance test.
3. Complete a functional check including earth leakage and load testing.

Once the appliance has been thoroughly checked over and if everything is satisfactory, a pass sticker will be affixed. The engineer will return to the office to compile a dedicated report detailing each product tested, a certificate will also be provided for the testing authenticating the results of the test. Minor repairs will be fixed at the time of testing so that it is safe to use and can be passed. If there are significant faults or damage, the unit will be classed as a fail and the relevant sticker will be applied to the product and the duty holder informed that the unit should be withdrawn from service immediately. if the unit is repaired it will have to undergo the testing process once again. A record and / or labeling system can be a useful management tool for monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of the maintenance scheme and to demonstrate that a testing scheme exists.

Although electrical equipment testing is not a legal requirement, there are benefits to having a scheduled testing. Unlike major electrical jobs you are not hindered by building regulations or electrical codes. when it comes to electrical equipment testing. However, you should be aware of The Electricity of Work Regulations and Health and Safety Act.

There are basic kits available for people who are just starting out as an electrical equipment tester with courses readily available online. the onus is on the tester being a competent person that is capable of carrying out the test and inspections, someone who has adequate knowledge and experience with electrical work. They must also know how to carry out the different aspects of the test and be able to understand the equipment, the testing process and be able to interpret the results. Above all it is essential to bear in mind that whoever is doing the testing is deeming the equipment safe for other people to use.

The types of products that require electrical equipment testing vary, they are usually defined as an appliance that is less than 18kg in weight and is any item that connects to the mains power supply via a plug and cable. Products for EET are defined in different classes such as below:

Class 1

This class relates to any earthed item, as these have greater potential for injury. This class of products should be the highest priority when it comes to EET, examples of products that fall under the class 1 category include electric heaters, microwaves, fridges, and toasters. Class I electrical products can be identified on the item rating plate using the symbol to the right.

Class 2

This class includes all appliances that are doubly insulated but still need to be tested for insulation resistance. Some examples of class 2 items include televisions, hairdryers, computers, power tools. Class II electrical products can be identified on the item rating plate using this symbol to the right.

Class 3

This class presents as the safest low voltage products such as charging leads for laptops and mobile phones. The laptops and mobile phones themselves don't need EET as they are low voltage and have their own isolating transformers.

Benefits of electrical equipment testing

There are a number of benefits to electrical equipment testing, especially within a business or industry setting.

Health and Safety within the workplace is the responsibility of the employer, and it is essential that all electrical equipment is safe for use. EET the electrical items in the workplace ensure that they are safe for use. When checks are made by a qualified electrical equipment testing professional, this can reduce any chances of an accidental fire as a result of faulty electrical equipment. If there are any faults or accidents due to faulty electrical equipment, this may not be covered on your insurance policy if the proper testing hasn't been kept up. Regular checks on your electrical equipment means that you can identify potential problems early before they result in a long-term or permanent fault. Electrical equipment testing should be an important part of regular maintenance.

Do These Recommendations Apply To Every Business/Organisation?

These recommendations are general rules, some workplaces will have more rigorous test requirements. It all depends on the risk level of your workplace, and the risk level is decided by three key factors:

1. The risk level of the equipment
2. The type of equipment being used
3. Who handles or interacts with the equipment

For example, most offices are considered low-risk, electrical equipment in these environments is generally only used by trained employees and is rarely moved.

Schools and hospitals would be medium-risk as there's a higher probability of children or untrained members of the public coming into contact with more specialist equipment.

Construction sites are the perfect example of a high-risk environment. Power tools are regularly used in adverse conditions and moved around constantly, this is why electrical equipment tests are recommended more frequently for construction equipment. You should undertake an electrical equipment test risk assessment to determine the testing frequency required in your workplace.

Part of being a responsible landlord is ensuring that a property is safe for the duration any property is let and also conducting regular electrical testing throughout the period of 'let'. This means that electrical equipment testing for landlords is a critical part of fulfilling this role. For landlords, electrical testing is an important consideration to take into account when adding electrical appliances into your properties which tenants will be using regularly. Should there be a problem with these items, this may cause harm to your property and its residents, alongside potentially damaging your reputation and rapport with your tenants, this applies equally to those who manage or own holiday lets or Air BnB properties.

How Often Should You Test Electrical Equipment?

It is recommended that smaller appliances undergo testing every two years to ensure that they are in proper working order, this would include toasters, microwaves, fridges, and washing machines and kettles to name a few typical items.

By organising electrical testing in rental properties, landlords can have the peace of mind that their property doesn't contain any potential electrical hazards which could inconvenience, or even injure, tenants. When purchasing a new appliance for a property, or as a tenant moving into rented accommodation, checks should be made to ensure that these appliances carry a ‘CE or UKCA’ mark. This mark indicates that they have been constructed to European production laws and that they comply with the safety requirements of European regulations. This may help identify any potentially dangerous equipment before problems arise.

© Colin Brittain 2024