TESTING AND INSPECTION
Testing and inspection are crucial steps in ensuring the safety, reliability and performance of
electrical circuits.
Inspection
1. Visual inspection; a thorough examination of the electrical circuit’s components, wiring
and connections to identify signs of wear, damage or improper installation.
2. Verification of compliance; checking the circuits design and installation against relevant
standards, codes and regulations.
Testing
1. Functional testing, verifying that the electrical circuit operates as intended performing its
intended functions.
2. Performance testing; evaluating the circuit’s performance under various conditions such
as load, temperature or voltage fluctuations.
3. Safety testing; Ensuring the circuits meets safety standards such as insulation resistance
short circuit protection.
Importance of inspection and testing
1. Improved safety; identifying potential electrical hazards and ensuring compliance with
safety standards.
2. Reduced downtime; Detecting and addressing issues before they cause circuit failure or
downtime.
3. Increased reliability; verifying the circuit’s performance and reliability under various
conditions
4. Compliance; ensuring the electrical circuits meet relevant standards, codes, and
regulations.
It is a requirement of the IEE wiring regulations that any apparatus altered or installed should be
tested.
It should be noted that periodic inspections should be executed regularly on the whole
installation.
Precautions before testing
Make sure all safety precautions are observed
Have a clear understanding of the installation, how it is designed and how it has been
installed
Make sure the instruments to be used are in good order with no broken or cracked
insulation or connectors.
Be aware of the dangers associated with the use of high voltages for example during
insulation resistance testing.
Notices and identification
1. Labels for all fuses and circuit breakers to indicate their ratings and the circuits protected
2. Indication of the purpose of the main switches and isolators
3. A diagram or chart at the mains positions showing the number of points and sizes and
type of cables for each circuit, the method of providing protection from direct contact.
4. Warning of the presence of voltages above or exceeding 240V on an equipment or
enclosure where such a voltage would not normally be expected
5. A notice situated at the main intake position to draw attention to the need for periodic
testing.
6. A warning of the danger of disconnecting earth wires.
7. A drawing which shows clearly the exact positions of all runs of buried cables.
Testing sequence
A correct testing sequence is important for example, it is of great importance that continuity and
hence effectiveness of protective conductors in confirmed before insulation resistance test is
carried out.
Some tests will be carried out before the supply is connected whereas others cannot be
performed until the installation is energized.
The correct sequence for safe domestic electrical testing is indicated as follows.
BEFORE CONNECTION OF SUPPLY
1. Continuity of circuit protective conductor(CPC)
2. Main and supplementary bonding continuity
3. Continuity of ring final circuits conductors
4. Insulation resistance
5. Polarity
6. Earth electrode resistance
WITH THE SUPPLY CONNECTED
1. Earth electrode resistance if an earth fault loop tester or ammeter voltmeter methods are
used
2. Confirm correct polarity (test lamp method)
3. Earth fault loop impendence test
4. Correct operation of residual current devices(RCD’s)
Visit YouTube and watch how each test is done.
Assignment to be handed in next week Wednesday
1. Come up with drawing for the following test
(a) Earth fault loop impendence test
(b) Polarity test using a test lamp
2. State the importance of each of tests above( both those done before and after the supply is
connected)
