IR testing on new build

[Buzz1980]

Hi all testing of new build house. When carrying out IR testing on circuits unplugged all equipment and took down smoke alarms. As there was a lot of lights connected with lamps and installed in twin and earth. I put live and neutral together and tested to Earth. IR test was starting off low but eventually got above 200mega ohm. So recorded that but got me thinking will the fact that the surge protector was still connected that will make the readings go all over the place. Every circuit got above 200mega ohm which I was happy about but would this surge protector affect readings ? Also find a lot of sparks very rarely carry out IR tests just rely on RCBOs or RCDs ? Hope use can help

 

[pc1966]

In the real world, on site, it is often not practical for a L-N test to be carried out as part of the initial verification

Yes, sadly that is the way it is going with most lights being assemblies where you can't remove the electronics from, and where there is not any provision for easily disconnecting it.

I intensely dislike the replace-whole-light-assembly way of the world and would always prefer removable lamps, as it is a waste of resources and adds to testing problems, but for many cases like bathrooms it is hard to get anything IP rated that way.

 

[richy3333]

Well I claim to do L-N tests on initial verification each and every time. Not an issue if done at the right time. Seeing Youtubers I get the impression that they wire up/re-wire, fit all accessories the think about testing and that might be becoming more and more the 'norm'. See 641.4 - every installation must be inspected and tested during erection and on completion before being put into service...

 

[radiohead]

Well I claim to do L-N tests on initial verification each and every time. Not an issue if done at the right time. Seeing Youtubers I get the impression that they wire up/re-wire, fit all accessories the think about testing and that might be becoming more and more the 'norm'. See 641.4 - every installation must be inspected and tested during erection and on completion before being put into service...

Not doing a L-N test does not mean the installation has not been inspected and tested. There is a compliant LN-E method. How then do you verify you have not caused a low IR L-N after fitting lights/accessories?
The reality is the complication really only applies to lighting circuits, other circuits are simple to test L-N and there is little excuse not to.