The Specification for the Testing of IT Equipment

General:

This specification relates to the inspection and testing of Information Technology Equipment (and related), connected to a 240v 50Hz single phase supply by means of a flexible cord and plugtop.

NOTE: For hard wired IT. Equipment, testing is required once every 5 years and will generally follow a similar procedure as outlined below, although a suitable adapter will be required to make the necessary connections to the PAT tester.

All work carried out will be done so in a manner that complies with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

All applicable equipment on each site will be inspected, electrically safety tested, labelled and repaired where possible. Relevant details will be entered onto an Equipment Register and all test results will be archived via an appropriate database.

Equipment with removable mains cords will have the cords tested as an integral part.

Labelling of Equipment Tested:

An identification label (indicating: our company name, appliance number and date for re-test will be provided for each item of equipment tested. The identification label will be affixed to each item of equipment in a neat and tidy fashion, and will be visible when the equipment is installed in it's normal working environment. Tags for cord sets will be securely affixed to the flexible cord adjacent to the plug top. All old labels and tags will be removed and replaced with new ones in subsequent testing phases.

Equipment Register:

A paper copy equipment register record will be completed for each item tested. Upon completion of a testing phase, or prior to down loading results from a test instrument, the details on the equipment register will be entered onto an appropriate computer data base.

Visual Inspection:

Before each item of equipment is tested a visual inspection will first be carried out. This preliminary check will include the inspection of the following items:

1) PLUG TOPS - Plug tops will not be cracked or otherwise damaged and will comply with the relevant British Standard (BS1363/A). Cord grips will be in good condition and must be properly adjusted. The correct size of fuse (to BS1362) will be fitted, and must be appropriate for the cord set conductor diameter and the equipment to which it is attached (as specified by the equipment manufacturer, or in accordance with Appendix 2. if this information is not available). Access to live parts should not be possible without the use of a tool. Plug tops and/or fuses will be replaced as necessary in order to comply with these requirements.

NOTE: Moulded plug tops will be inspected for physical damage only.

2) FLEXIBLE CORDS - All flexible cords will have two layers of insulation throughout their length, and will show no signs of excessive ware or physical damage. Cord sets intended to be permanently attached to an item of equipment will be securely clamped to that equipment (internally or externally). Cords will be inspected at the plug top (unless of the moulded type) for correct polarity, security of connections and general condition at the point of termination. Flexible cords will be replaced, or cut back and re-terminated as necessary. Replacement cords will be of an equal type to the existing, comply with the relevant British Standard Specification and be BASEC Approved.

NOTE: Cut back and re-terminated cables will not be reduced in length to the point where they may present a "tripping", or related hazard.

3) EQUIPMENT ENCLOSURES - All enclosures will show no sign of damage to castings, outlets, switches or other controls. Access to live parts will only be possible with the use of a tool. All retaining screws and fastenings will be present and correctly tightened. Any damage or missing items will be reported/replaced as necessary.

 

For all enquiries please telephone: +44 (0)1482 881 230