There is little point in setting up Regulations to control the way in which domestic electrical installations are designed and installed if it is not verified that they have been followed. For example, the protection of installation users against the danger of fatal electric shock due to indirect contact is usually the low impedance of the earth-fault loop. Domestic electrical testing ensures this impedance is correctly measured and then safety can be confirmed. In this case the test cannot be carried out during installation, because part of the loop is made up of the supply system which is not connected until work is complete. Domestic electrical testing is important.
Although the UK has a fairly good record of electrical safety, there are still over 30 deaths and nearly 4000 injuries from electrical accidents and the 8000 fires that occur in the home each year. Most of the accidents in the home involve faults in, or misuse of, domestic appliances, flexes, plugs or connectors. A large number are related to electrical maintenance or DIY activities. The major dangers to health from electrical accidents are from shock, burns, electrical explosion or arcing, fire, and mechanical movements initiated by electricity.
Please remember if you do not have the results of previous test and/or wiring diagrams then a great deal of time is required to determine the detail of each circuit! In the event of an open circuit in a protective conductor, the whole of the earthed system could become live during the earth-fault loop test. The correct sequence of testing would prevent such a danger, but the tester must always be aware of the hazards applying to himself and to others due to his activities. Testing routines must take account of the dangers and be arranged to prevent them. Prominent notices should be displayed to indicate that no attempt should be made to use the installation whilst testing is in progress.Domestic electrical testing for safety.