IR testing

[sambotc]

Just a quick one,


When testing an existing installation, is there anything in any of the reg's that stops you linking L&N and testing this way? Is this how the majority of you test IR when carrying out a consumer unit change or carrying out an EICR for example?

I am awaiting my NICEIC inspection and have little hands on experience doing testing on existing installations as I have/will mainly been installing new circuits (solar etc) When I am doing this I carry out the tests as I go which makes life a lot easier. I can imagine running around peoples houses un plugging everything, pulling out light bulbs, checking the loft for sockets/aerial boosters etc and asking people to remove the contents of there garage/shed as a complete nightmare. The L&N - E test seems to limit any potential risk and save a lot of time but just wanted to check that this was an acceptable method to use all the time or if there were limitations on its use. Don't want to be called lazy (or worse) when it comes to CPS inspection

Cheers in advance

 

[Sparky Ninja]

As long as you can warrant a reason for the L&N - E test, avoiding a test betwen live conductors then it is fine.
If all equipment can be rapidly removed with little dismantling then a L-N test should be carried out.

Also ensure that the client is aware and agrees the limitation.

 

[Farmelectrics]

Nothing wrong doing it that way it's down as test method 2 for ir tests in gn3

 

[malcolmsanford]

And of course Reg 612.3.2

 

[nickblake]

If the installation is existsing by that i mean a house thats occupied , then when house hold items are filling the house it is some times difficult to spot something plugged in , also with PIR's occupancy switches etc , and where there is a possability of you zapping something that may be damaged so linking them out is a good idea ,when i test i always do a lower IR first 250v then if its clear i re test at 500 v , the other thing is mark it down on the certificate to that you have carried out this test

 

[Farmelectrics]

Yes me to always ir at 250v then retest at 500v just the way I was shown and it's stuck with me