Running a successful business is a substantial undertaking. It requires complete attention, knowledge and dedication. Additionally, you need certain permits that will make running the business legally above-board.
Among several requirements, EICR certificate is one of the most essential. Electrical systems have recently become very efficient. However, an accident may occur at any time. To avoid potential mishaps, most experts recommend an electrical installation condition report certification.
An EICR is necessary to ensure preventative measures are taken before any electrical problems emerge. According to the IEE or Institute of Electrical Engineers, commercial properties must get EICR certification every 5 years, or when there’s a change in occupancy, whichever comes sooner. Some businesses are particularly hazardous to electrical systems. They might require this certification even sooner.
These are the four reasons you must acquire EICR certification for your business;
Compliance with the Law
This law is designed to ensure the safety of the occupants of a building. Every business owner must do their best to safeguard an employee’s physical well-being or other occupants of the building. Fixed Wire Testing is legally required under the governance of IET Wiring Regulations Seventeenth Edition (BS 7671).
It is also enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) under the 1974 Health and Safety at Work Act, as well as the 1989 Electricity at Work Regulations.
All these regulations require certain precautions to be taken. They are designed to help prevent the risk of personal injury or fatality. Compliance minimises the risk of unwanted accidents in electrical installations.
- Over-loaded circuits may lead to frequently tripping breakers.
- Frequency overload may damage sensitive equipment.
- Fire or shocks may result from shoddy installation work.
All these risks and more are entirely avoidable with an EICR certification for your business premises.
Business Insurance Validation
Many insurance companies are pushing for electrical testing from their customers as an essential part of policy conditions. This implies that the pay-outs will not be validated without proof of EICR certification. Your claims may come under jeopardy without said certification, or you might not get as much as you assumed.
When you present the insurance company with proof of well-maintained electrical systems, it conclusively proves that the incident was entirely accidental or due to unforeseen circumstances. It shows that, as a business owner, you have done everything in your power to prevent avoidable accidents. It absolves you of any fault or liability.
Saving Money
During an EICR examination, the trained electricians are able to identify corroding wires, overloaded circuits and any faults in switches. Correcting such issues may save you from overheating, overcharging, and wasteful energy issues. You may save thousands in energy bills alone, not to mention your electrical equipment will also last longer.
EICR certification will give you glowing recommendations for improved efficiency and contribute towards a significant reduction in liability expenses.
Reduction of the Carbon Footprint
Global warming is one of the gravest threats to humanity. While many countries are taking steps to counteract this problem, individuals can also take unilateral measures to do their part. Businesses can save money by stopping the inefficient use of energy and minimize their participation towards rising entropy. Every little contribution counts. EICR certification ensures a noteworthy reduction in your business’ carbon footprint.