- Pre-Visit Preparation
Before heading to the site, ensure you:
- Review project drawings, specifications, and BOQ.
- Gather necessary tools (multimeter, clamp meter, IR tester, lux meter, thermal imaging camera, etc.).
- Prepare a checklist based on the project stage (installation, testing, commissioning, or maintenance).
- Confirm site safety requirements (PPE, permits, induction, etc.).
- Coordinate with site managers, contractors, or clients.
- General Site Safety and Compliance
✅ Check general safety measures:
- Are workers using appropriate PPE (helmets, gloves, boots, reflective vests)?
- Is there proper signage for electrical hazards?
- Are live parts properly insulated or protected?
- Are emergency exits and routes clear and well-lit?
- Are electrical enclosures properly locked and labelled?
✅ Regulatory Compliance:
- Are all electrical installations compliant with local codes (e.g., IEEE, IEC, BS 7671, or Kenyan standards)?
- Are work permits and risk assessments in place for high-risk activities?
- Electrical Distribution System
✅ Main Distribution Board (MDB) and Sub-Distribution Boards (SDB)
- Check if the main incomer rating matches design specifications.
- Inspect circuit breakers (MCCBs, MCBs, RCDs) for correct ratings and labelling.
- Ensure proper earthing and bonding of panels.
- Look for overheating signs (burn marks, discolored wires, buzzing sounds).
- Verify cable termination is firm and properly crimped.
✅ Transformer (if applicable)
- Check oil level, temperature, and leaks (for oil-filled transformers).
- Verify earthing and lightning protection.
- Inspect cable connections and bushings for damages.
✅ Power Factor Correction (PFC) Units
- Measure power factor and check capacitor banks.
- Look for swollen or damaged capacitors.
- Wiring and Cabling
✅ Cable Management
- Check that cables are properly routed in trunking, conduits, or trays.
- Ensure cable sizes are the same as the load demand.
- Look for any damaged or exposed wires.
- Check that cable joints are properly insulated and supported.
✅ Earthing System
- Verify the earthing continuity of panels, sockets, and equipment.
- Measure earth resistance to ensure compliance.
- Check the integrity of earthing pits and connections.
✅ Conduit and Trunking
- Ensure conduits are properly installed, free from mechanical damage.
- Verify correct conduit sizes for the number of wires inside.
- Check for water ingress in outdoor installations.
- Lighting and Emergency Systems
✅ General and Task Lighting
- Measure lux levels using a light meter to verify adequate illumination.
- Inspect for flickering, non-functional lights, or incorrect lamp types.
- Check for proper positioning of lighting fixtures as per design.
✅ Emergency Lighting
- Confirm that emergency lights turn on during a power failure.
- Check battery backup status and charge levels.
- Inspect exit signs for proper illumination.
✅ External and Security Lighting
- Verify the functionality of floodlights, bollard lights, and streetlights.
- Inspect for proper IP rating for outdoor lights.
- Electrical Appliances and Equipment
✅ Fixed Equipment (Motors, Pumps, HVAC Systems, etc.)
- Check for proper voltage and current readings.
- Inspect for any abnormal sounds, overheating, or excessive vibrations.
- Verify protection relays are set correctly.
✅ UPS and Backup Power
- Inspect the UPS batteries for proper voltage levels and terminal tightness.
- Check generator operation, fuel level, and automatic transfer switch (ATS).
- Perform a load test if required.
- Fire Protection and Safety Systems
✅ Fire Alarm System
- Test smoke detectors, heat detectors, and manual call points.
- Verify fire alarm panel functionality.
- Ensure proper audibility of sounders and sirens.
✅ Surge Protection
- Inspect SPD (Surge Protection Devices) ratings and connections.
- Look for any burnt-out or failed surge arrestors.
✅ Lightning Protection
- Check for continuity in the down conductors.
- Measure resistance at earthing points.
- Inspect air terminals (lightning rods) for corrosion.
- Testing & Commissioning Checks
✅ Insulation Resistance Test
- Conduct IR testing on cables, motors, and switchgear.
- Verify readings are within the recommended range.
✅ Voltage and Load Testing
- Measure voltages at panels, sockets, and lighting points.
- Check for voltage drops and ensure balanced phase loading.
✅ Harmonics and Power Quality
- Use a power analyzer to check for harmonic distortion, voltage fluctuations, and frequency stability.
✅ Thermal Imaging
- Use a thermal camera to detect hotspots on switchgear, transformers, and cable joints.
- Documentation and Reporting
✅ Record observations and deviations from the design.
✅ Take photos for reference and reporting.
✅ List corrective actions for any issues found.
✅ Sign off inspections and get site engineer/client approval.
✅ Follow up on rectifications and ensure compliance.
For a detailed guideline, check this post, Building Services Electrical Inspection Guideline.
