It is beneficial to engage an experienced expert to review your electric safety devices.
A certificate of electrical safety is a document that is used to pinpoint and rectify any problems that may be present in your property prior to they cause injury or damage. There’s no lawful requirement for the installation of electrical equipment to be independently examined unless it is installed again, or has been substantially relocated or altered, or a certification to operate is refused.
In all other circumstances the building regulations only require equipment to be inspected by a qualified person who need not be an electrician, but must know what they are doing.
An electrical safety inspection includes testing the installation to ensure it is in compliance with the building regulations applicable to it, IEE Wiring Regulations, as well as the manufacturer’s recommendations. Potential fire hazards include excessive electrical cables, overload sockets and malfunctioning equipment.
The certificate will also include appliances that are attached to the installation, including heaters, immersion heaters and kettles. It ensures that they are safe to use.
A skilled professional can conduct an electrical test. He will offer suggestions regarding how to fix any problems before they cause injuries or damages.
You could be entitled to inquire about an inspection of the electrical safety when you lease your property.
Electrical safety tips to help you stay safe when you are renovating your home
Alongside changing smoke detectors, professionals at the university suggest that homeowners follow the following safety tips when renovating:
1. If someone is using electricity from different areas of the house Do not remove the main switch or isolated circuit breaker. This is especially true when appliances are plugged into outlets operated by a wall switch.
2. After shutting off the circuit breaker wait for the power indication to go out before beginning to work on wiring.
3. You can turn off the circuit breaker that is isolated while there is a person working with it. Before you begin working on the wires controlled by the circuit breaker, you must make sure that the switch on the circuit breaker is off.
4. Make sure you are careful when using an extension cord for power. Always choose the shortest length, and ensure it’s not overloading. If you’re using a longer cord ensure that it’s UL-approved for high-wattage appliances.
5. Be careful when working with wiring devices that are older especially three-way switches. They haven’t been used for a number of years. If they’re not installed properly they could be in threat of electrocution and shock.
6. Make sure that the electrical fixtures you use are tested to be in compliance with Australian standards, such as those manufactured by Schneider Electric, Wylex or HPM.
7. Make sure your candles are free of combustible objects. Also, don’t leave candles unattended.
8. Wear shoes with rubber soles, remain on a level surface, and don’t use the extension cords that are frayed. Do not cut the cord from an old appliance , then plug it into another or a different one unless they have the same voltage ratings.
If you want to learn more, click compliance check for your RCD or smoke alarm