Expert Electrical Compliance Services for Commercial Needs

If you run a shop, office, warehouse or factory, you are responsible for keeping the electrical installation in your premises safe. Staying compliant is not just paperwork. It protects your staff and customers, reduces the risk of fire and unplanned downtime, and helps with insurance and your legal duties.

The main rules and standards

In the UK, fixed electrical installations are designed, installed and tested to BS 7671, the IET Wiring Regulations. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require electrical systems at work to be maintained so that they do not give rise to danger. Fire alarm systems are normally designed and installed to BS 5839, and emergency lighting to BS 5266. This is general guidance rather than legal advice, so check what applies to your own premises.

Periodic inspection and testing (EICR)

An Electrical Installation Condition Report, or EICR, is a periodic inspection and test of the fixed wiring. It finds damage, wear, overloaded circuits and anything that does not meet current standards, and each observation is given a code so you can see what needs urgent attention. The right interval depends on the type of premises and its condition: up to five years is common for many commercial buildings, and industrial sites are often checked more frequently. The inspector will recommend a date for the next inspection on the report.

Fire alarms and emergency lighting

Fire detection and emergency lighting systems need regular servicing and testing to keep working when you need them. Keep a log of tests and service visits, and have any faults put right promptly.

Keep records and act on the findings

Keep your electrical certificates, inspection reports and test records together. If a report lists urgent defects, have them put right quickly and keep the evidence of the repair. Good records make life easier with insurers, landlords and inspectors.

Choose a qualified contractor

Use a contractor with the right registrations and experience for your type of premises, who explains what they find in plain language and gives you a clear written quote for any remedial work.

Need electrical testing, certification or compliance work for your commercial premises? Alltec Installation Services covers Aylesbury and the surrounding area — get in touch for a quote. Coming soon: the Alltec Shop, where you'll be able to buy electrical accessories and equipment online, with an optional click-and-fit service so one of our qualified electricians fits it for you. Watch this space!