Building compliance testing comes to hand

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Nov 25, 2004

SureTest testers perform loop impedance and residual current device (RCD) testing to BS7671 and provide full compliance with the 16th Edition wiring regulations.

Ideal Industries has introduced the new, easy to use, SureTest handheld tester range.

SureTest testers perform loop impedance and residual current device (RCD) testing to BS7671 and provide full compliance with the 16th Edition wiring regulations when used in conjunction with a separate insulation and continuity tester.

SureTest testers are valuable tools for any authorised electrician who needs to demonstrate compliance with the new Part P of the Building Regulations.

For the first time, SureTest testers successfully combine all required loop and RCD tests in a truly handheld package that should come as a welcome replacement to the bulky, labour-intensive testers currently on the market.

The range currently consists of two compact versions.

The entry-level Model 61-253 features a menu-driven design that allows users to select between loop or RCD functions and conduct a range of required tests automatically or manually.

The more advanced SureTest Model 61-254 diagnostic analyser provides users with additional measurements such as voltage drop and ramp tests allowing more in-depth troubleshooting of problem circuits and devices.

The testers' straightforward menu-driven design means that all required BS7671, 16th Edition loop and RCD tests can be performed in the shortest possible time, and proprietary technology guarantees that mechanical or solid-state RCDs will not trip during a loop test.

With one hand, one-button operation SureTest testers provide users with accurate results via a bright, easy-to-read organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.

Both models conform to EN61010-1 Cat III 600V, and so will work safely and dependably in both industrial and domestic electrical environments.

Government statistics indicate that on average 10 people die and about 750 are seriously injured every year in accidents involving unsafe electrical installations in the home.

Part P of the Building Regulations aims to curb these rising numbers.

From 1st January 2005, it will be illegal for anyone to carry out domestic electrical installation work unless they are a Government authorised electrician.

Authorisation will only be given to individuals who have registered with one of the five Government approved "self-certification schemes" and can demonstrate "competence" in various aspects of the job such as design, installation and testing to BS7671 (16th Edition IEE Wiring Regulations).

This initiative brings domestic electrical installations in England and Wales under Building Regulations control and aims to stop cowboy electricians putting peoples lives at risk.

"Part P presents a major challenge to the 60,000 or so electrical installation enterprises and self-employed electricians in the UK".

"With several million domestic electrical installations undertaken annually, Building Control officers will be hoping that the vast majority of electricians register quickly with one of the Government's approved certification schemes so they are able to self-certify their work", comments Tony Kumeta, Business Manager, Ideal Industries.

"SureTest puts everything the 'competent' electrician needs for Part P testing compliance in the palm of their hand".

"Starting from only GBP 299, SureTest testers are some of the most cost-efficient testers available and are the only ones of their type to come with a comprehensive lifetime warranty".