How Frequently Should Fixed Wire Testing Be Carried Out?

 As an employer or business owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that necessary health and safety measures are in place to protect both employees and customers. One of these essential precautions is fixed wire testing, which is part of the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) test.

This guide will cover how often fixed wiring should be tested and whether an EICR test is a legal requirement.

In a commercial environment, the frequency of fixed wire testing depends on the nature of your business. The key reference for this information is the IET Wiring Regulations (currently BS7671:2018), which provide guidelines based on the specific risks associated with different types of businesses, as well as the potential consequences of electrical failures. When scheduling electrician services, such as an EICR test, it’s important to consider factors like the frequency of equipment usage and other associated risks.

Electrical hazards are responsible for around 20% of fires in the UK, so regular testing is not only essential for compliance but also for peace of mind when it comes to fire safety.

How Often Should Fixed Wiring Be Tested?

The frequency of testing varies depending on the type of commercial premises. In some businesses, an EICR may only need to be conducted every five years to remain legally compliant. In other cases, testing might be required every three years, or even annually in certain circumstances.

If you're unsure about how often testing is necessary for your business, The Oltec Group is here to provide guidance.

Here’s a breakdown of when testing is required for various types of commercial premises:

• Five-Year Testing Requirement

  
  

  These premises generally require testing every five years:

  
  

  • Pubs, hotels, and restaurants

  • Churches and community centers

  • Offices and retail stores

  • Shared accommodation (e.g., houses of multiple occupancy)

  • Schools and educational buildings

  • Care homes that do not provide medical care

While five years is the minimum requirement, it's often advisable to have tests conducted more frequently to ensure safety for employees and customers.

• Three-Year Testing Requirement

  
  

  Some establishments are required to have tests every three years, including:

  • Spa hotels and leisure centres

  • Theatres and playhouses

  • Industrial units and agricultural buildings

• Annual Testing Requirement

  
  

  Certain locations require annual testing due to higher risks, such as:

  • Petrol stations

  • Saunas

  • Laundrettes

  • Swimming pools

  • Medical facilities (clinics, hospitals, etc.)

In some cases, testing requirements can vary within a single premises. For example, in a cinema, "back of house" areas may require testing every three years, while front of house might need annual testing. Similarly, care facilities may have different requirements depending on the area being tested.

For example, in a hotel with a swimming pool, only the pool area would need annual testing, while the hotel rooms would fall under the five-year testing cycle.

Is an EICR a Legal Requirement?

Yes, an EICR test is a legal obligation under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. This law mandates that all electrical systems in the workplace must be maintained in a manner that prevents danger, including the requirement for periodic EICR testing to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Failing to meet these legal obligations not only endangers the safety of those on your premises but could also result in significant penalties. Local authorities can impose fines of up to £30,000 for each breach of these regulations.

For more information about fixed appliance testing or to schedule your EICR, feel free to contact us. We are happy to assist with any questions you may have.