Damp and use of "Proto Meter"

[Colonel Hathi]

Hi Chaps
One of my colleagues was recently asked by a client to check that it was ok to reinstate electrics to a flat after a leak from the flat above.
Having safely isolated the supply, he was conducting a visual inspection of switches and sockets for signs of damp.
A representative from the landlord was present and criticised him for not using a "proto meter" to check for damp.

My feeling is that a "proto meter" is not something I would necessarilly expect an electrican to use - being far more sensitive than is necessary for our purposes.
I would have thought it more important to ensure that the water leak had been remedied, safely isolate and conduct a visual inspection.

I wouldn't have thought that the sensitivity of a damp meter was really necessary.

What do you chaps think?

We would like to defend our wicket on this - but I dont want to get shot down in flames.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

CH

 

[DurhamSparky]

ah yes i carry one of them!! first tool out the bag every time!! NOT!! Visual, IR and check in the sockets! always recomend 2-3 days drying time after leak before powering up! also just try the RCD for good measure as well!!

 

[pushrod]

Agree with Durham Sparky - would have thought visual and insulation resistance testing. Can't see how a super sensitive damp meter is relevant - did they expect them to be stuck in the cable

 

[DurhamSparky]

also worth pointing out that the cable sheath is water proof

 

[Colonel Hathi]

Thanks for the feedback chaps !

CH

 

[Golden_Boy]

Hi Chaps
One of my colleagues was recently asked by a client to check that it was ok to reinstate electrics to a flat after a leak from the flat above.
Having safely isolated the supply, he was conducting a visual inspection of switches and sockets for signs of damp.
A representative from the landlord was present and criticised him for not using a "proto meter" to check for damp.

My feeling is that a "proto meter" is not something I would necessarilly expect an electrican to use - being far more sensitive than is necessary for our purposes.
I would have thought it more important to ensure that the water leak had been remedied, safely isolate and conduct a visual inspection.

I wouldn't have thought that the sensitivity of a damp meter was really necessary.

What do you chaps think?

We would like to defend our wicket on this - but I dont want to get shot down in flames.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

CH

Dampness in walls would only have an effect if the wires embedded in it where bare

 

[UNG]

Isn't a Protometer just an IR tester for plaster and other porus materials as all it does is test how much current flows between two probes relative to the level of dampness in the tested material never heard of one being used on cables though