8.8.3 - Installation alterations and additions

The changes in the occupation and uses of situations where there are electrical installations make alterations and additions a common occurrence. Before commencing alterations and additions to an installation it is very important to verify that the existing supply system, installation and earthing arrangements are capable of feeding the proposed new installation safely. For example, the additional installation in a large extension to a house may impose extra loads on the supply system which it is incapable of meeting. It is the responsibility of the person carrying out the extra work to ensure that it, as well as the existing installation, will function safely and correctly. The tester must check that all materials made redundant by the installation changes, such as cables, wooden pattresses etc., and which may be responsible for the spread of fire, are removed. Additionally, the inspector must look for other prospective fire risks, such as:

1. - flexible cords not securely held by cord grips,

2. - a dangerous increase in the use of adaptors,

3. - worn or otherwise damaged flexible cords,

4. - signs of overheating of appliances, plugs and connectors,

5. - over-rated lamps fitted to luminaires, and

6. - heaters with insecure or missing guards.

It is not his responsibility to rectify defects and faults in the existing installation, but he must test and inspect it, reporting deviations on the electrical installation certificate which is provided on completion of the work. Should dangerous defects be found in an existing installation it would be clearly irresponsible of the person carrying out the alterations or extensions not to bring them to the urgent attention of the user.