Schools have a clear duty of care to keep, not just students, but staff, visitors and anyone on their premises safe. Compliant electrical systems are a core component of exercising this responsibility. This is why Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) are required every five years.
Regular inspections are essential – but not the whole story, as we explain here.
What Does an EICR Cover?
An EICR inspection ensures that the fixed wiring systems throughout the school premises are safe and comply with current electrical standards. The inspection will look at wiring integrity as well as investigating potential risks such as faulty wiring, overloaded circuits or outdated electrical systems.
The report will recommend any work that needs to be done to ensure your electrical systems are compliant, along with recommendations for other work that should be considered.
Emergency Lighting
Emergency lighting is a safety-critical system. You need to be certain that it will operate correctly when needed so that everyone could exit the school buildings quickly and safely. We recommend testing the activation at least each half-term and ideally monthly. Each year it should be tested to ensure that lights remain on for the specified period.
Fire Alarms
School managers must be certain that the fire alarm system will work correctly in an emergency. School fire alarms should be tested weekly, which should include activating every alarm point. There should be detailed inspection and service carried out every six months.
PAT Testing
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is also known as Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment (ITEE). Portable electrical appliances such as kettles, computers, printers, photocopiers and projectors, should be regularly tested and certified as being safe to use with no risk of shocks or fire.
Testing should happen at least one a year and more frequently for high-use or high-risk equipment.
An Electrical Safety Mindset
The formal inspection and testing requirements we’ve outlined are the foundation of electrical safety. It’s equally, and possibly more important, to foster an electrical safety mindset.
This means being alert to emergent risks. For example, taking immediate action if you suspect electrical wiring or equipment could have been damaged. It means encouraging all staff members to be vigilant and aware of potential risks such as damaged power cords or equipment.
It also means taking a proactive approach to risk management and replacing ageing electrical wiring and systems before they become a liability.
Working with a professional and responsive electrical contractor who understands the level of flexibility needed in an operational school environment is probably the most essential element in effective risk management.
For expert Electrical Compliance for Schools – whether it’s routine testing or a full system upgrade, our team is here to help. Contact us today!