ECA Encourage a Risk-Based Approach to Portable Appliance Testing

8 January 2019

The Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) has raised concerns over the recent change to HSE guidelines. They’re concerned changes may lead to businesses relaxing in their approach to workplace safety. Concern is that the new guidelines may result in businesses no longer routinely inspecting and maintaining portable electrical appliances; or by not being trained sufficiently to carry out the inspection and maintenance.

Paul Reeve, Head of Business Policy at the ECA and Chartered Fellow of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, advises that further to the HSE recommendations of regular visual inspection; businesses also need a good understanding of the potential risks surrounding electrics in the workplace.

We would agree, as a visual inspection is only as good as the person doing the inspection, If someone lacks knowledge of the potential risk and how the electrical device is used, then their inspection is not so useful. It is important to to carry out an assessment of the competency of the person carrying out the assessment.

So what can you do to reduce your Risk

Businesses also need to instate risk based regular inspections and maintenance, and know what to do when potential risks or equipment faults are found – all of which may require at least a basic level of training.

All in all, we at Parker Bell would agree that electrical safety can be ensured practically and affordably as the HSE guidelines suggest, but companies still need to ensure their designated staff have the skills and training required to carry out the job competently.

Parker Bell has rolled out free online PAT Testing course to help you understand exactly what is involved in PAT Testing. Designed to cover everything you need to know about what is involved in the fundamentals of PAT Testing. You can satisfy yourself as to whether you are competent to carry out the work – or if you require additional training.

The PAT Testing Fundamentals course is completely free to do. You can do the course online at your convenience. The course is accessed here here: www.onlinepattestingcourse.co.uk At the end of the course; providing you pass. You will have the option to purchase a certificate.