IET Code of Practice - some useful advice

There has been much criticism of the latest edition of the Code of Practice recently including on this blog. However trawling through Edition 4, I came across some useful information that throws some light on an issue that has been puzzling me for some time. This is to do with cable rating and fuses.

IET Code of Practice - labelling

The 4th edition of the IET Code of Practice covering PAT testing makes a new recommendation on labelling as follows. "The date for re-testing should not be marked on the label". The duty holder is supposed to keep this in his or her records.

Edition 4 of the IET COP - Selling used electrical items

The new edition of the IET Code of Practice was launched last week. The preview information promised a new section presenting advice on the sale of pre-owned equipment so understandably I was quite excited. This promised to be good news for charity shops.

Edition 4 of IET Code of Practice launched

The long awaitied IET Code of Practice landed on my desk today and cost me £48.40. The previous editions came out in 1994,2001 and 2007; so only 5 years have elapsed since the last edition.

The New IEE Code of Practice 4th edition

The IEE Code of Practice is being revised and the new version will be available in November of this year (2012). The IET has produced some advanced notes about the main changes and this can be seen here  http://www.patinfo.co.uk/IET_COP_4.pdf

What exactly does "Earth Leakage" mean

The terms "Earth Leakage" "Touch Current" and "Sub Earth Leakage" often causes confusion during PAT Testing or when comparing different PAT Testers. This blog presents some additional information on these tests.

Testing surge protected extension leads

Most modern PAT testers have a facility for quickly testing surge protected extension leads. You just plug both ends of the power cord into the tester (using a short IEC lead) and quickly carry out the Earth Continuity, Insulation Resistance and Polarity (wiring) tests.