Published:
14 January 2014
Category:
News
Electrical installations in Petrol Forecourts fall into the “Potentially Explosive Atmospheres” category.
The Electrical Installations (and Testing) in such areas should comply with:
“ET 105:2011Third Edition”. “National Rules for Electrical Installations in Explosive Atmospheres” in addition they must also comply with Part 8 of the SH&WW legislation.
Any Electrical Contractor undertaking work in such areas should familiarise themselves with the relevant legal requirements and ET 105:2011.
Insurance Companies or Local Authorities often require a Periodic Inspection Report specifically for Petrol Forecourts.
The issuing of the ET101:2008 Periodic Inspection Report document is not acceptable for such Installations.
A Periodic Inspection Report for such Installations should be done on the Contractors headed paper.
Part 6 (Verification, Inspection and Testing) of ET 105:2011 outlines the specific testing requirements.
The following tests are a legal requirement as per SI 311/1979 Dangerous Substances Act (Retail and Private Petroleum Stores) including a number of amendments.
( a ) the verification of polarity,
( b ) the effectiveness of the earth loop impedance,
( c ) the conductance of the earth conductor and earth plate or earth rods,
( d ) the effectiveness of every earth-leakage circuit breaker,
( e ) the insulation resistance of every circuit, and
( f ) the suitability, effectiveness and condition of all cables, switches, fuses, plugs and socket outlets having due regard to the other provisions of this Regulation and a certificate, in such form as may be approved by the licensing authority, of the results of every such inspection and test and shall be kept available by a licensee for inspection by the licensing authority.
* Note this is the actual wording of SI 311/1979.
**Note: All relevant Legislation may be referenced / downloaded from www.irishstatutebook.ie.
Contractors should also refer to www.etci.ie and check the section headed “Explosive Atmospheres"