ELECTRICAL SAFETY
with the LV network drawing, and a report for each switch panel and distribution board on a unique web-based portal called TraQ-It.
Interactive online portal
TraQ-it is an interactive online portal that was developed at a significant cost after several years by directors at Guardian Electrical Compliance. Guardian’s interactive website includes features such as instant reporting, exporting capabilities, hierarchical permission levels, search and filter functionality, remote printing, and much more. TraQ-it is a truly interactive web-based reporting system which ensures that records are always current, accurate, consolidated, and with a version history capability. As a consequence, the level of testing, and therefore the costs, can be justifiably reduced.
With the information collated, a detailed programme of works to complete the final circuit inspection and testing can be designed specifically for the client’s needs, and to work around access requirements for wards, clinics, and surgeries. The duty- holder will be aware of any observations reported, and will be able to rectify these issues before final circuit inspection and testing are carried out. From experience, a flexible approach is required due to the changing nature of patient needs. The programme of works should be designed to make sure that this is factored in, and that the planned timescales for the project are met. Communication between the Estates Department, electrical inspectors, and medical staff, is crucial. Detailed notice is given to medical staff to help them plan around isolations, and for the Estates team to provide any temporary supplies, as required.
The need for compliance A healthcare duty-holder is responsible for technical and complex buildings that require a large amount of statutory compliance. It is clear from the regulations and guidance around LV electrical systems that this single area requires significant attention to meet the statutory requirements in place. Having a safe and reliable electrical system has always been crucial in healthcare establishments. There is no better way of making sure that the electrical system is safe and complies with the current standard than completing an EICR, although this is just the beginning of making sure that the system is safe for continued use. The observations identified during the inspection and test require rectification, and any associated and accompanying paperwork. This includes minor works or electrical installation certificates, which must be completed, and this evidence stored with the original report. Using a trusted, competent, and professional contractor to complete the EICRs is a must. Any person working on your electrical system is required to be competent, and to have sufficient knowledge regarding the requirements and regulations, so that they can complete an in-depth and accurate EICR. Working safely on the LV electrical system is paramount, not only for the contractor’s own safety, but also for the safety of patients and medical staff. Guardian Electrical Compliance offers a bespoke service to help a duty-holder meet all the requirements of their role – from initial meetings, and completion of the EICR, to ‘closing the loop’ with received observations paperwork and a cloud-based reporting system.
Matthew Gilmore
Matthew Gilmore FdEng, MIET, MIHEEM, is a senior project and technical manager at Guardian Electrical Compliance, and is highly regarded within the business for providing technical support and quality analysis. both for internal users and Guardian’s client base. A time-served electrical engineer who has worked within the medical, educational, commercial, and industrial sectors, and has over 20 years’ experience, he manages several NHS contracts. He has developed specifications and procedures to undertake comprehensive Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) within medical locations, and delivered training on those procedures to over 100 engineers. He is currently studying towards a BEng in Electrical Engineering at the University of Derby, and is an active member of IHEEM. He is aiming to attain Incorporated and Chartered Engineer status.
hej
October 2021 Health Estate Journal 37
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