Did you know that the IET is about to change their Code of Practice (COP) for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment this November?
As the IET puts it ‘Major changes are planned…Which will better reflect the industry and consumer requirements for the safety of electrical equipment and appliances.’
The changes are set to come in due to the increased demand for clearer guidance on frequency of testing, and the new guidance should clamp down on these issues.
The main changes planned centre around:
- Delivering clearer guidance to more diverse businesses. The current guidance confuses a lot of new business types such as those who deal with pre-owned goods, and the new guide should clear up this confusion
- The new stance will also look at hired equipment, with a greater focus on the responsibilities of those hiring equipment and how this ties in with the code of practice
- Clearer guidance on the frequency of inspection and testing. Currently many businesses are pressured into carrying out regular testing when it simply isn’t needed, and the new revisions to the guide are designed to clear up some of the confusion surrounding the industry and – in particular – how often PAT testing must be completed.
On paper they may sound like simple things, but the new revisions could have far reaches across the industry. Companies may find themselves with less work due to a lower demand for PAT testing, for example, and the new regulations on hired equipment could certainly change that sector as well.
Other items that may be changed are:
- The removal of non-associated tests such as microwave leakage and manufacturers production tests
- Increased and additional definition clarity
- Additional equipment types
- Additional information on legislation and residence types
- Clearer guidance on types of residences and the requirements for landlords
Here’s hoping that the new guidance gives a much clearer idea on what is expected of the industry. It is advised that you purchase the new Code of Practice immediately after publication to ensure you adhere to the latest regulations at all times.
In the meantime, you can check out the following links for useful information on all things PAT testing.
