So, you have decided or been advised to have an EICR on your property, you have chosen Wessex Electrical Services to complete these works, in your property in Basingstoke, but you don’t really know what to expect or what it all means?
Understanding Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) - Wessex Electrical Services
A brief guide to EICR’s and their Coding
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is vital for ensuring the safety of an electrical installation. It is carried out to assess the condition of electrical systems, determining if they are safe and compliant. This inspection identifies faults, damage, defects, or conditions that may present risk or need improvement.
The Importance of Coding in EICR
Coding in an EICR is an essential part of the assessment, categorizing the urgency and severity of any issues found within the installation at your Basingstoke property. This coding system allows electricians to communicate findings effectively, ensuring that any necessary actions are prioritized accordingly.
C1 - Danger Present
Code C1 is issued when there is an immediate threat to safety. In situations where C1 is noted, remedial action must be taken without delay to prevent risk of electric shock or fire. Typical scenarios might include exposed live wires or faulty equipment.
Example: During an inspection, if live parts of a system are found exposed within reach, creating a risk of electric shock, a C1 code will be issued.
C2 - Potentially Dangerous
Code C2 indicates significant deficiencies that need urgent attention but do not pose immediate danger. It suggests that while the situation is not hazardous now, it could become dangerous in the event of a fault or a change in circumstances.
Example: An example of C2 might be outdated wiring systems that do not comply with current safety regulations but are not currently dangerous.
C3 - Improvement Recommended
Code C3 refers to situations where improvements are advisable to enhance safety. While these are not immediate hazards, addressing them can help prevent future problems and bring the installation in line with modern standards.
Example: Non-critical issues like missing labels or slightly worn fixtures emitting functionality can attract a C3 classification.
FI – Further Investigation Required
In cases where further investigation is needed to identify the exact nature of a potential problem, the FI code is used. This ensures that ambiguous issues are thoroughly understood before corrective actions are taken.
Example: If an unexplained drop in insulation resistance is detected during periodic testing, an FI code may be issued to delve deeper into the cause.
EICR Electrician Basingstoke
Understanding the coding system in an Electrical Installation Condition Report helps prioritize actions to maintain and improve electrical safety. It ensures that all installations comply with British Standard BS 7671, protecting individuals and property from electrical hazards. Regular EICRs and appropriate response actions based on coding help to ensure electrical safety.
If you have any questions about EICR's, or would like to book an EICR at your property, get in touch with me today.
