Only one Classification code should have been given for each recorded observation.
Where an observation has been given a Classification code C1, the safety of those using the installation is at risk and immediate remedial action is required.
The person responsible for the maintenance of the installation is advised to take action without delay to remedy the observed deficiency in the installation, or to take other appropriate action (such as switching off and isolating the affected part(s) of the installation) to remove the danger. The NICEIC Approved Contractor issuing this report will be able to provide further advice.
NICEIC makes available ‘Electrical Danger Notification’ forms to enable inspectors to record, and then to communicate to the person ordering the report, any dangerous condition discovered.
Classification code C2 indicates that, whilst those using the installation may not be at immediate risk, urgent remedial action is required to remove potential danger. The NICEIC Approved Contractor issuing this report will be able to provide further advice.
Where an observation has been given a Classification code C3, the inspection and/or testing has revealed a non-compliance with the current safety standard which, whilst not presenting immediate or potential danger, would result in a significant safety improvement if remedied. Careful consideration should be given to the safety benefits of improving these aspects of the installation. The NICEIC Approved Contractor issuing this report will be able to provide further advice.
It is important to note that the recommendation given at Section I of this report (Next Inspection) for the maximum interval until the next inspection is conditional upon all items which have been given a Classification code C1 and code C2 being remedied immediately and as a matter of urgency, respective.
It would not be reasonable for the inspector to indicate that the installation is in a satisfactory condition if any observation in this report has been given a code C1 or code C2 classification.
It should usually be possible for the inspector to attribute a Classification code to each observation without indicating a need for further investigation.
However, where ‘FI’ has been entered against an observation the inspector considers that further investigation of that observation is likely to reveal danger or potential danger that, due to the agreed extent or limitations of the inspection and/or testing, could not be fully identified at the time.
It would not be appropriate for the inspector to indicate that the installation is in a satisfactory condition if there is reasonable doubt as to whether danger or potential danger exists. Consequently, where the inspector has indicated ‘Further investigation required without delay’ (FI) the overall assessment of the installation (Section E) should be marked as ‘Unsatisfactory’.
If the inspector has indicated that an observation requires further investigation without delay, the person ordering this report is advised to arrange for the NICEIC Approved Contractor issuing the report (or another skilled person or persons competent in such work) to undertake further examination of that aspect of the installation as a matter of urgency, to determine whether or not danger or potential danger exists.
Further information on the application of Classification codes, primarily aimed at inspectors but of possible interest to persons ordering condition reports, can be found in Electrical Safety First’s Best Practice Guide entitled Electrical installation condition reporting: Classification Codes for domestic and similar electrical installations. The guide can be viewed or downloaded free of charge from www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk
Published by Certsure LLP, Certsure LLP operates the ELECSA & NICEIC brands ©Copy right Certsure LLP (January 2015)