This fault of the week underlines the importance of carrying out Portable Appliance Testing.
When a fuse blows you often find yourself hunting around for a suitable replacement. Unfortunately, in this instance, a fuse was not available so an enterprising individual prepared one from a steal rod. It may have even been turned down on a lathe such is the perfect fit!
For the purpose of protecting the appliance and the user in the event of an electrical fault, this item is obviously unsuitable, meaning not only your electrical appliance breaking, but there is a huge potential of a fire risk. Is it really worth it?
All users of portable electrical equipment in the work place should undertake ‘User Checks’. However for non-trained personnel it is recommended that the plug top is not removed.
Unfortunately, this limited inspection may lead to a significant defect of this nature going unnoticed. Therefore the IET recommend that formal visual inspections are undertaken periodically by a competent person to identify these hazardous items.
A Veriserv engineer would replace the fuse during the Portable Appliance Testing and advise the client of his findings. Keeping both the client, and all those around the electrical item, safe and sound.
Our mission is to provide every single customer with an outstanding service that is fit for purpose and delivered by experts to reduce risk. As you can see from our other faults of the week, regular visits from a professional can cut down the risk of electrical faults, fire and disrupted security, to you and your workplace.
So if you know you are due a service, or have some concerns about your premises, please call 01543 225306, or fill out one of our contact forms to arrange a free assessment of your premises, with one of our fully trained engineers.
Information for Reference
IET- Institution for Engineering Technology
Regulations
Provision & Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
