A fixed wire test is an inspection of the condition of electric installations. It identifies any defects in the wiring or associated electrical equipment to ensure it is safe.
That’s why fixed wire testing is important – it saves lives.
For most homes and businesses, the interval between one fixed wire testing and the next is five years. However, it can be as low as one year for others. The interval period depends on the type of business you do.
Some people refer to fixed wire testing as an Electrical Installation Condition Report or EICR. This test is carried out to ensure your electrical installations or circuits are working in optimal condition.
It also ensures that your electrical system matches the current legislation for wiring and safety.
Your testing’s regularity is stipulated by the current version of IET Wiring Regulations, also known as BS-7671:2018.
The following three factors define the frequency of testing;
- Installation type of the electrical system
- Frequency of usage
- External environment which may influence the electrical system
For the majority of homes and commercial businesses, an EICR certification will only be required once every five years. This provision is only applicable to those specific businesses with a minimal risky environment.
The frequency continues to increase as the risk-factor rises.
Please note that the periods stated in this article are the maximum possible period between testing intervals. You can decide your own schedule for greater efficiency and carry out the testing before you are legally obligated.
In fact, it shows a great initiative on your part if you do not wait for the absolute limit allowed by the regulations and take steps for increased efficiency beforehand.
Fixed Wire Testing – 5 Year Period
While most homes and businesses require fixed wire testing to be carried out once every five years, they still need to carry out regular inspections, at least on an annual basis.
Following are the types of workplaces that fall under a five-year window;
- Businesses with a commercial space, like offices or retailers
- Hotels and restaurants
- Education establishments, like universities, schools and colleges
- Laboratories
- Community centres, churches, and pubs
- Hospitals and special-care homes
- Houses with multiple occupancies and halls of residence
Fixed Wire Testing – 3 Year Period
Some businesses operate in an environment where they are exposed to certain elements that may be damaging to the electrical systems, like extreme temperatures, dust, moisture, etc. Such homes and businesses need a more frequent testing cycle.
Following are the types of workplaces that fall under a three-year window;
- Spa centres, leisure houses
- Industrial complexes
- Public recreation centres, like cinemas, theatres
- Caravans
- Horticultural or agricultural establishments
Fixed Wire Testing – 1 Year Period
A few homes and businesses have very high exposure to elements that may cause degradation in electrical systems. That’s why they require testing within a shorter frequency than other buildings.
Following are the types of workplaces that fall under a one-year window;
- Certain cinemas
- Specific medical locations within hospitals or clinics
- Saunas, swimming pools
- Marinas
- Petrol stations, launderettes, fish farms
Where Does My Home or Business Fall?
The businesses and homes that usually come within the industrial category fall under a 3-year cycle, such as;
- Workshops
- Warehouses
- Manufacturing units
- Maintenance garages
If you are still unsure where your business or home falls, please do not hesitate to ask for help from an experienced electrician.
They can help you by suggesting the best testing cycle for your business that does not affect your operations and ensures efficiency plus security.