Periodics

[sparks1234]

Who does how much testing when carrying out periodic inspections.

 

[Guest123]

I can be a bit ---- when it comes to periodics......I like to know as much as I can about the install so will try and test everything, within reason.

Obviously there will be some limitations which will need to be agreed such as IR testing, due to inaccessible items that would need disconnecting to do the test.


Other than that I will do R1+R2 and Zs, again unless there is a good reason not to.

All IMO.

 

[Sintra]

It all depends on what limitations you agree with the client.

 

[pevvers]

100% test of circuits every time, as long as they call all be found and are accessible. I personally don't like the thought that if it is only 25-50%, half or more of the circuits could have dangerous faults on them....

 

[rob1967]

I always test everything or as much as I can within reason..............usually take my time doing test have been known to take me 6 hours...............

 

[Sintra]

Some clients we do PIR's for do a 20% test yearly so as to spread the cost over the 5 year period.
I agree with you guys to do 100% where permissible, visible & accessible.

 

[sparks1234]

mmmm. we are testing a large installation of various buildings, some of the wiring even goes back to VIR's so we are completely testing every circuit, but other buildings where the wiring is typically 70's 80's we are trying to do at least 50% and generally we are over 70% on R1 R2 and Zs, if we start to find more than 1 circuit with strange readings we fully test.

 

[Graeme Harrold]

Just done a load of static caravans and did the following tests (Customer wanted 10%):

Ze, Chassis Bonding, IR (LN to CPC), Zs on two lights, Zs on 3 sockets and full RCD test.

The biggest pain in the arse was the dual 30mA RCD's one in the CU and one outside in the supply hook up

Bit more than 10% but I just like to know the install is safe esp as its a rental van. Found two with no earth as SWA had rotted through and an RDC that tripped on the sniff of current. Couldnt even ramp test as it tripped before the Fluke could measure it!!!

When it comes to domestic, I just do as much as feasibly possible

 

[Spudnik]

Must admit that if i found any VIR then i wouldnt even bother testing it

 

[sparks1234]

Must admit that if i found any VIR then i wouldnt even bother testing it

Got to admit, I didn't want to touch it and will recommend it is replaced but it was surprisingly flexible and in good condition

 

[rocker]

Probably been asked a million times, but what qualification do you need to do PIRs? I am a thorough tester and quite enjoy it, might quite like to get into it if i can

 

[Graeme Harrold]

Probably been asked a million times, but what qualification do you need to do PIRs? I am a thorough tester and quite enjoy it, might quite like to get into it if i can

As far as Im aware just like everything else, you just need to be competant , but a good understanding of the regs and C&G 2391 is the best bet.

 

[pevvers]

As far as Im aware just like everything else, you just need to be competant, but a good understanding of the regs and C&G 2391 is the best bet.

And some previous knowledge of old regs and British Standards as well, as you will come across some funky stuff that if you've only ever done new build in about the last 15 years you will have no idea about!

3871s, 4293s, 5419s, VOELCBs, single colour green earths, no CPC's in lighting, VIR... Just a few off the top of me head.

The thing that totally threw me on one PIR I conducted was lead sheathed twin and earth, or what looked like it. Didn't have the foggiest what it was!!

 

[rocker]

As far as Im aware just like everything else, you just need to be competant , but a good understanding of the regs and C&G 2391 is the best bet.

So I don't need to get any additional qualification? Ah thought you did, damn I have turned down quite a few jobs because I thought I had to get some more quals....

 

[eddielarge]

Rocker have you got your 2391.... i only employ guys for testing who have this , this shows me that they are competant.