User Checks

A user check is a simple visual inspection carried out by the person using the equipment. It forms an important part of the overall maintenance system, alongside formal visual inspection and electrical testing. Many faults can be identified quickly by the user before the equipment is used, helping to prevent electric shock and fire. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recognises that user checks are often the most effective way of identifying damage, particularly in low-risk environments such as offices. The frequency of formal inspection and testing should be determined by a risk assessment. For further information, see the HSE publication: Maintaining portable electrical equipment.


A user check is an external inspection only. It does not include opening the plug or carrying out electrical tests. It does not usually need to be recorded unless a fault is found. If damage is found (or the equipment is suspected to be faulty), it should be removed from use, clearly labelled, and reported to the responsible person.


If You Find Damage

  • Stop using the equipment immediately.
  • Unplug it (if safe to do so).
  • Label it clearly: DO NOT USE.
  • Report it to the responsible person / duty holder.

User Visual Inspection

checks on plug

The Plug

Check for cracks, loose pins and signs of overheating (discolouration or melting). The plug should insert smoothly into the socket. Difficulty plugging in can indicate damaged pins. Where the cable enters the plug, no internal coloured wires should be visible and the plug should grip the outer sheath securely (gently tug the cable to confirm).


inspection of cable

The Cable

Check the entire length of the cable. Running it through your hands helps you feel cuts, splits or flattened sections. No internal coloured wires should be visible. The cable should not be kinked, crushed or repaired with electrical tape (tape is not a suitable repair).


inspection of the appliance

The Appliance

This should work properly and be inspected for cracks, damage, and loose or missing covers that could expose the user to the internal electrical parts. The case should be checked for any signs of overheating, and any air vents should be free from obstruction. The outer cable sheath must be securely gripped as it enters the case. This can be checked by firmly pulling on the cable. The internal coloured wires should not be visible.


damage to the socket

Socket Outlets

Should also be checked for cracks, damage and signs of overheating. There should be no missing or loose screws. The switch, if fitted, should be working and the internal safety shutters should be covering the live and neutral terminals.


unwound extension reel

Extension Leads

Should be checked to make sure they are not overloaded. High-power appliances such as heaters and kettles should not be plugged into multiway extension leads. Daisy chaining extension leads by plugging one lead into another should be avoided. Extension reels should be fully unwound whilst being used to avoid overheating.


testing an RCD

RCDs

The operation of portable RCDs and RCDs built into socket outlets should be tested by first switching on and then pressing the test button. This should immediately trigger the RCD to operate and cut the power.


environmental considerations

The Environment

Attention should be paid to the environment the equipment is used in. For example, are there external factors that could potentially expose the equipment to water or high temperatures? For equipment that needs to be used in a harsh or hazardous work environment, it should be constructed to withstand the rigours of use.


User Check Training

User checks can identify many faults early, but most workplace equipment will also require formal visual inspection and, where appropriate, electrical testing by a competent person. The frequency of inspection and testing should be determined by a risk assessment, taking into account the equipment type, environment and how it is used. If you need to train staff to carry out inspection and testing in-house, see our PAT testing course.