Visual examination in electrical testing

7 November 2016

Visual Examination is very important and often precedes electrical testing.  Oftentimes it reveals major issues that may not have been found by testing alone.

In-service visual examinations and electrical testing are divided into three groups, operator checks, formal visual examination as well as a combined visual examination and electrical testing.  There are no strict schedules to adhere to; however, several factors may influence how often these checks are done.

Intended use: Some pieces of equipment are used more often than others.  Handheld equipment is manipulated and moved around more than a piece that is stationary.  Equipment that is being moved regularly needs to be checked more frequently due to potential rough handling that can result in damage and early failure.

Surroundings: Equipment found on a construction site is more likely to become damaged as opposed to equipment in an office.  Therefore, equipment in rugged environments need to be checked often.

Operators: Operator checks are important when it comes to equipment.  If constant unreported abuse goes on, then testing of equipment will need to be performed on a regular basis.

By examining equipment employing operator checks, formal visual examination and combined visual examination and electrical testing, your equipment should run well for years to come.

More information

pdf 914.86 KB