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Protective Devices to Pass Your Next EICR
Protective devices are an important part of ensuring the safety and proper functioning of an electrical system. They are designed to protect people, animals, and property from the dangers of electrical currents.
During an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), also known as a Periodic Inspection, protective devices are thoroughly tested to ensure that they are functioning correctly and providing the necessary level of protection. If protective devices are found to be defective or not functioning properly during an EICR, it is important to repair or replace them as soon as possible to ensure the safety of the electrical system.
Type A RCD Protection
RCD, known as Residual Current Device, is designed to protect against electric shock by cutting off the supply of electricity if they detect an imbalance in the current flow. RCDs can be either fixed or portable and are typically installed at the consumer unit or distribution board.
Type A RCDs are designed to provide protection against direct contact with live parts and indirect contact with live parts via the earth. They are sensitive to both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) and are able to interrupt the flow of electricity within 30 milliseconds of detecting an imbalance in the current.
Type A RCDs are important in Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) because they provide a critical layer of protection against electric shock. During an EICR, a qualified electrician will test and inspect all RCDs to ensure that they are functioning correctly and providing the required level of protection. If any defects or issues are identified, the electrician will recommend any necessary repairs or upgrades.
Surge Protection (domestic only)
Surge protection is a protective device that is designed to prevent damage to electrical equipment and systems by limiting the magnitude of voltage spikes or surges. Surge protection devices can be installed at various points in an electrical system, including at the main service panel, at the point of use, or within the equipment itself.
In a domestic setting, surge protection is typically used to protect against damage caused by lightning strikes, power outages, and other electrical events that can cause voltage spikes. Surge protection devices can be used to protect a wide range of electrical equipment, including computers, TVs, appliances, and other electronic devices.
Surge protection is important in Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) because it helps to ensure the safety and integrity of the electrical system and the equipment connected to it. During an EICR, a qualified electrician will assess the need for surge protection and may recommend the installation of surge protection devices if necessary.
AFDDs (high-risk buildings only)
AFDDs (Arc Fault Detection Devices) are protective devices that are designed to detect and interrupt the flow of electricity in the event of an arc fault, which is a type of electrical fault that results in the emission of an arc of electricity between two or more conductors. AFDDs are typically used in high-rise buildings, such as hospitals, schools, hotels and residential care homes, where fire from an arc fault has an increased risk to life.
AFDDs are important in Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) because they provide a critical layer of protection against the risks associated with arc faults. During an EICR, a qualified electrician will assess the need for AFDDs and may recommend the installation of AFDDs if necessary.
