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The Health & Safety Executive offers no absolute requirements on the frequency of the inspection and testing of portable appliances. The Memorandum of Guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations suggests that 'regular inspection of equipment is an essential part of any preventative maintenance program', but it does not specify the intervals of time implied by the word 'regular'. The reason is that different situations require different measures in order to meet the requirement. The factors which influence the frequency of testing must be assessed by the duty holder who is responsible for making the judgement.

In arriving at a judgement as to the frequency of testing, a duty holder is likely to assess the following factors:-

1. The environment - equipment installed in a benign environment will suffer less damage than equipment in an arduous environment

2. The Users - if the users report damage asand when it becomes evident, hazards will be avoided. Conversely, whereequipment is likely to receive unreported abuse, more frequent inspection and testing is required

3. The equipment construction - the safety of a Class 1 appliance depends upon a connection with the ‘earthing’ of the electrical installation. If a flexible cable is damaged the connection with earth can be lost. Safety of Class 2 equipment is not dependent upon a fixed electrical installation

4. The type of equipment – hand-held appliances are more likely to be damaged than fixed appliances. If they are Class 1 the risk of danger is increased, as the safety is dependent on the continuity of the protective conductor from the plug to the appliance.

Estimating Level of Risk

There is a simple calculation how to estimate the level of risk of electrical equipment items.

Start with a BASE RISK of 0 POINTS then add:

  • 2 points if the item is used in a wet or corrosive environment OR uses water or a corrosive substance in its operation. (e.g. Kettle)
  • 2 points if it has a flexible supply cord that is subject to flexing OR that is subject to harsh treatment.
  • 1 point if it has a heating element OR 240V electric motor.

If the sum is 2 points or more it is GROUP A, High Risk

If the sum is 1 point it is GROUP B, Medium Risk

If the sum is 0 points it is GROUP C, Low Risk