How to prepare for an EICR Test
Wondering how you can prepare your business for an EICR test? Fear not - we've got your back...
Wondering how you can prepare your business for an EICR test? Fear not - we've got your back...
Now, this might be news to you…
But we’ve carried out our fair share of EICR tests over the years.
Some might even call us experts in them.
(Not us, of course, because we’re not big-headed like that)
However, over the last ten years of conducting electrical safety checks on businesses and domestic properties, we’ve picked up a few insights.
Often, within minutes of attending a premises, we can easily identify what will be a seamless, streamlined EICR test and one that’s going to drag into a slog…
With this in mind, here are our top tips for preparing adequately for an electrical safety check so that you can get back to business as quickly as possible.
Firstly, don’t make us play the bad guy. Whilst most of our customers are aware that the power will need to be turned off during the test – many forget that this also includes the Wi-Fi router. And if there’s one thing that breaks our hearts, it’s seeing the pain in your faces when we tell you that you’re going to be without an internet connection for a few hours.
The best solution we’ve seen to this problem is to get prepared. If you absolutely need to use the internet at your premises for the duration of your EICR test, consider using a Wi-Fi hotspot or portable router.
As part of an EICR test, we will need access to every room within your premises. This is the only way we can confidently test and visually inspect every circuit in your home.
Typically, this isn’t an issue, but occasionally, there’s a hiccup when customers think we only need to see the consumer unit or fuse box. This mix-up can stretch out our job as we navigate through delayed permissions, shuffled meetings, or limited room access.
To keep everything running like clockwork, please be prepared for us to access each room. For larger complexes like hospitals, the task is naturally more extensive, and we’ll make sure to provide you with a time estimate for completion well in advance of our visit.
Teamwork – right?!
Another frequent speed bump in electrical testing arises from obstructed access to electrical outlets. Our certified electricians must reach each – and ideally, every – outlet, even those hidden behind bulky furniture or situated in tight spots.
You can significantly accelerate the testing process by making sure every outlet is readily accessible. Before our arrival, take a moment to move furniture, clear any clutter, and check that nothing impedes a direct path to each socket. This simple step not only speeds up the procedure but also ensures a more comprehensive and efficient inspection.
A further heads-up: brace for brief pauses in your power supply. These interruptions are a standard part of the EICR process, as they allow us to assess and test your electrical system safely.
To minimise inconvenience, consider rescheduling activities that require uninterrupted power. It’s a short-term hiccup that ensures long-term safety and compliance.
Finally, before we step through your door, please ensure you’ve gathered all past electrical installation condition reports (EICR documents). These records are crucial. They give us a glimpse into your electrical system’s past, allowing for a more streamlined evaluation. This preparation can significantly speed up your return to business as usual.
Luckily, if you’ve used our team at Focus On Testing in the past for your EICR tests, then we’ll have all of your documents stored in our handy Document Portal. So feel free to skip this step!
So there we have it. At Focus On Testing, we have thirty years of experience in carrying out efficient and reliable EICR inspections.
Whilst most electrical inspections can be completed within a relatively short timeframe, there are a handful of steps you can take to help ensure this is as efficient as possible.
And remember, if you’ve got questions before your EICR test – don’t panic! Just give our team a call on 0330 088 4597 or drop us a message here.
Looking for more information on what Fixed Wire Testing actually is and why it matters? Check out our FREE guide on everything you need to know about EICR tests, here!