Part 6 - Inspection of Installations
CHAPTER 6.1. INTRODUCTION
The inspection of electrical installations is essential to ensure the safety of people and property, as well as to maintain compliance with standards and regulations. These inspections help detect defects or weaknesses in electrical systems that could otherwise lead to risks of fire, electrocution, or other serious incidents.
Electrical installations that are not inspected regularly may develop hidden defects, increasing the risk of serious accidents, such as short circuits and fires.
Regular inspections are particularly important in high-risk environments, such as industrial installations or public buildings, and are mandatory for certain types of installations to ensure ongoing compliance.
CHAPTER 6.2. SCOPE OF APPLICATION
The scope of electrical installation inspections covers all installations subject to current safety standards. This includes low-voltage, very low-voltage, and critical installations that require special attention. The inspections vary based on the type of installation, its use, and the environment in which it is installed.
:::example 🔍 Practical Example For public buildings, inspections are often more frequent and rigorous due to the high density of people and associated risks. :::
CHAPTER 6.3. APPROVED ORGANISMS
Approved organisms play a central role in the inspection of installations, verifying the compliance of electrical installations with safety standards. These organizations have specific expertise and accreditation, allowing them to conduct inspections and issue certificates of conformity.
Section 6.3.1. Purpose of Accreditation
The purpose of accreditation is to authorize an organism to carry out inspections and certify the compliance of electrical installations. This accreditation is granted by a competent authority, which assesses the technical expertise, inspection rigor, and quality of the organism’s procedures.
Summary: Accreditation ensures that the inspections conducted by the organism are recognized and reliable, contributing to the safety of the inspected installations.
Section 6.3.2. Definitions
The following definitions are relevant in the context of approved organisms:
- Accreditation: Official authorization allowing an organism to perform regulatory inspections of electrical installations.
- Approved Organism: An accredited entity qualified to conduct compliance inspections of electrical installations.
- Compliance Inspection: Verification that the installation meets all current safety requirements.
These definitions establish the foundation for understanding the role, obligations, and responsibilities of approved organisms.
Section 6.3.3. Conditions for Accreditation
Organisms must meet several conditions for accreditation to be recognized and authorized to conduct safety inspections of electrical installations.
Subsection 6.3.3.1. General Conditions
General conditions include:
- Technical Competence: The organism must demonstrate in-depth knowledge of safety standards and current regulations.
- Impartiality: The organism must be independent and have no commercial ties with the installations it inspects to ensure an objective assessment.
- Operational Capacity: It must have the necessary human and material resources to carry out reliable and rigorous inspections.
Note: These conditions ensure that only qualified and impartial organisms perform compliance inspections, maintaining a high level of safety.
Subsection 6.3.3.2. Special Cases
In certain situations, special accreditation conditions may apply. For instance, additional criteria may be required for organisms inspecting critical installations or high-risk environments.
Section 6.3.4. Accreditation Procedure
The accreditation procedure involves several rigorous steps to ensure that the applicant organism meets all necessary conditions:
- Official Application: The organism submits an application including its qualifications, inspection methods, and proof of compliance with the requirements.
- Evaluation: The competent authority reviews the submitted documentation, assesses technical skills, and may conduct audits.
- Decision: If the criteria are met, accreditation is granted. If not, the organism receives recommendations for improvement.
Summary Table: Accreditation Procedure
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Official Application | Submission of documents and proof of competence. |
| Evaluation | Review of documentation and possible audits. |
| Decision | Granting of accreditation or recommendations for improvement. |
Section 6.3.5. Renewal of Accreditation
Accreditation must be renewed regularly to ensure that the organism continues to meet current standards and requirements. Renewal involves a complete re-evaluation of the organism, including its ability to provide quality inspections.
The renewal process follows a similar procedure to the initial accreditation, with an additional review of the organism's updated skills and equipment to meet evolving safety standards.
Section 6.3.6. Declaration of Authorization for Inspectors
Inspectors are qualified professionals who conduct on-site inspections to verify the compliance of electrical installations. To ensure their competence and integrity, a declaration of authorization is required for each inspector, confirming that they possess the necessary technical qualifications and expertise.
The declaration of authorization entails that:
- The inspector adheres to safety standards: They must have an in-depth knowledge of current safety protocols and regulations.
- Technical skills: Regular updates to their knowledge are required to stay aligned with regulatory changes.
- Impartiality and integrity: Inspectors must have no conflicts of interest with the installations they inspect.
This declaration aims to enhance the reliability of inspections and the safety of installations.
Section 6.3.7. Operational Criteria
The operational criteria for approved organisms define the standards of quality, regularity, and independence necessary to conduct reliable inspections. Key criteria include:
- Quality of Inspections: The organism must use rigorous and proven methods to perform comprehensive checks.
- Frequency of Inspections: Inspections should be conducted at regular intervals, with the frequency adapted to the type and use of the installation.
- Documentation and Traceability: Each inspection must be documented to ensure transparency and enable audits.
- Continuous Training: Inspectors must regularly undergo training to stay updated with the latest standards and regulations.
These criteria ensure that the approved organism maintains high and consistent control standards.
Section 6.3.8. Advisory and Oversight Commission
The Advisory and Oversight Commission is a consultative body that plays a critical role in monitoring approved organisms. Its main missions are:
- Providing Recommendations: Advising on best practices and the evolution of inspection methods.
- Ensuring Quality of Inspections: Monitoring approved organisms to ensure their inspections remain compliant with current standards.
- Investigating Non-Conformities or Disputes: Conducting inquiries into the activities of organisms in cases of complaints or detected anomalies.
Summary: The Commission acts as a guarantor of the reliability and objectivity of approved organisms, thus enhancing safety and confidence in the installations.
Section 6.3.9. Monitoring and Sanctions
Approved organisms are subject to strict monitoring to ensure they adhere to safety standards. In cases of non-compliance, sanctions may be applied:
- Warnings: Issued for minor infractions, reminding the organism of the rules.
- Temporary Suspension of Accreditation: For serious defects, the organism may be suspended until corrections are made.
- Revocation of Accreditation: For severe and recurring non-compliance, accreditation may be permanently revoked.
These measures ensure that organisms remain accountable and strictly adhere to their safety obligations.
Section 6.3.10. Electrical Installations in Public Services
Public service installations require specific inspections due to their impact on the general public. The requirements for these installations include:
- More Frequent Inspections: Due to intensive usage, public installations are subject to increased monitoring.
- Enhanced Safety Standards: Safety standards are often stricter for these installations to protect users.
- Follow-Up After Modifications: Any modification must be followed by an inspection to ensure continued optimal safety.
CHAPTER 6.4. COMPLIANCE INSPECTION BEFORE COMMISSIONING
The compliance inspection before commissioning is essential to verify that an installation meets safety standards before it is put into service.
Section 6.4.1. General Principles
Compliance inspections before initial use ensure that all safety measures have been implemented. This process includes administrative, visual, and technical checks.
Section 6.4.2. Administrative Checks
Administrative checks involve verifying that all documentation related to the installation is complete and compliant. This includes:
- Plans and Schematics: Up-to-date wiring diagrams, grounding plans, and installation layouts.
- Certificates: Previous compliance certificates and documents confirming the safety of installed equipment.
Section 6.4.3. Visual Inspections
Visual inspections help detect obvious anomalies in the installation:
- Material Damage: Checking the integrity of cables, devices, and protective equipment.
- Safety Distance Compliance: Ensuring that regulatory distances are maintained to prevent risks of short circuits or overheating.
- Signage and Marking: Verifying that clear and visible signage is in place for safe handling.
Note: A thorough visual inspection can reveal potential issues before they become hazardous.
Section 6.4.4. Testing Procedures
Testing procedures are conducted to evaluate the installation under controlled conditions:
- Safety Device Testing: Verifying the proper functioning of circuit breakers, fuses, and other protective devices.
- Continuity Testing: Ensuring that all connections are solid and electrical continuity is maintained.
- Emergency Simulations: Testing devices under emergency scenarios to assess their responsiveness.
These tests are crucial to ensure that the installation is ready for safe operation before being commissioned.
Section 6.4.5. Measurement Inspections
Measurement inspections involve collecting precise data to evaluate the safety of the installation.
Subsection 6.4.5.1. Insulation Resistance Measurements
Insulation resistance measurements ensure that there is no current leakage. This includes:
- Measurement of insulation resistance: Assess the effectiveness of insulation to prevent current leaks.
- Conductor safety check: Evaluate the conductors' ability to withstand external influences.
- Data recording: Document all values and compare them against standards to verify compliance.
Subsection 6.4.5.2. Earth Electrode Resistance Measurements
Earth electrode resistance measurements are crucial for ensuring safety in the event of an electrical fault.
- Measurement technique: Use an earth resistance meter and test stakes placed around the electrode.
- Safety standards: An acceptable resistance value is typically below 30 ohms for residential installations but may vary for different types of installations.
- Interpretation: High resistance values indicate an increased risk. In such cases, enhancing the earth electrode with additional conductors may be necessary.
Section 6.4.6. Inspection Reports
Inspection reports are essential for documenting the results of compliance checks and serve as proof of the installation’s safety. They help inspectors, property owners, and managers ensure continuous maintenance and safety of the installations.
Subsection 6.4.6.1. General Requirements
Inspection reports must include:
- Detailed information: Location, date, and description of the installation.
- Measurement results: Insulation resistance, earth resistance, etc.
- Non-compliance issues: Details of detected anomalies with recommendations for corrective actions.
- Installation details: Location, equipment inspected.
- Compliance results: Measurements conducted, values obtained.
- Recommendations: List of actions required to address non-compliance issues.
Subsection 6.4.6.2. Specific Provisions for Reports on New Electrical Installations
For a new installation, the report must include:
- Complete description: Plans, schematics, and specifications of installed components.
- Compliance with standards: All sections must adhere to the Belgian Electrical Regulations.
- Signatures: Signed by both the owner and the inspector to attest authenticity.
Important: Signatures from all responsible parties reinforce the credibility and reliability of the report.
Subsection 6.4.6.3. Specific Provisions for Reports on Installations in Explosive Risk Zones
Installations in explosive risk zones require detailed documentation:
| Criteria | Specific Requirements |
|---|---|
| Zone identification | Precise identification of hazardous explosion risk zones. |
| Appropriate equipment | Verification of equipment compatibility with the environment. |
| Preventive measures | Inspection of implemented preventive safety measures. |
The reports must demonstrate that additional precautions have been taken to minimize risks in explosive environments.
Subsection 6.4.6.4. Content of Compliance Reports for Residential Installations
For residential installations, the report should include:
- Protection system checks: Verification of residual current devices, earth electrodes, and conductor continuity.
- Circuit compliance: Assessment of cable conditions, connections, and appliances.
- Recommendations: Suggestions for improvements and safety updates.
Practical Advice: Include a dedicated section for recommendations to facilitate future maintenance and upgrades.
Subsection 6.4.6.5. Content of Compliance Reports for Non-Residential Installations
For non-residential installations, the report should include:
- Functional safety analysis: Assessment of control and safety devices.
- Emergency circuit inspection: Verification of safety installations such as emergency lighting.
- Documentation of protective measures: In line with specific requirements for the installation type (laboratories, factories, etc.).
Info: Non-residential installations may require additional safety devices depending on their specific use and environment.
Section 6.4.7. Specific Cases for Compliance Checks Before Commissioning
Certain situations require tailored compliance inspections before putting the installation into service. Examples include:
- Modifications or upgrades: New components must be inspected for compliance before being integrated into the existing system.
- Critical environments: Installations in hospitals, data centers, or industrial zones with hazardous materials may require additional checks.
- Temporary installations: Event setups or temporary worksites need rapid compliance checks to ensure user safety.
These tailored inspections help address the specific risks and requirements associated with different types of installations, ensuring that all safety standards are met before commissioning.
Subsection 6.4.7.1. Electrical Machines and Devices
Electrical machines and devices must be inspected to ensure:
- Connection Safety: Comprehensive inspection of internal wiring.
- Integrated Protection: Verification of cut-off devices and grounding systems.
- Critical Components: Examination of control systems and high-voltage elements.
Inspect protective devices and critical components to anticipate potential failures.
Subsection 6.4.7.2. Portable, Mobile, or Temporary Installations
Temporary installations include construction sites, events, and emergency equipment setups. Inspections focus on:
- Temporary Connection Standards: Compliance with safety regulations.
- Protective Devices: Verification of circuit breakers and grounding.
- Equipment Durability: Ensuring suitability for temporary installation conditions.
Practical Example: Secure connections on construction sites to prevent accidental disconnection and power loss.
Subsection 6.4.7.3. Modifications or Extensions
When modifying or extending an installation, a compliance check is required before recommissioning. Evaluated aspects include:
- Impact on the Original Installation: The modification must not compromise safety or performance.
- Equipment Compatibility: New equipment must be compatible and conform to standards.
- Updated Documentation: All changes must be reflected in the installation schematics.
Update the documentation after each modification to maintain traceability of the installation.
CHAPTER 6.5. INSPECTION VISITS
Inspection visits are periodic checks aimed at ensuring the safety and compliance of electrical installations.
Section 6.5.1. General Principles
Inspection visits include administrative, visual, testing, and measurement checks to verify the safety and proper functioning of the installations.
- Objective: Identify potential defects or hazards.
- Importance: Reduce the risk of accidents and malfunctions.
Best Practices: Conduct these visits regularly to minimize the risk of equipment failure.
Section 6.5.2. Frequency of Inspection Visits
The frequency of inspection visits depends on the type of installation:
| Type of Installation | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|
| Residential Installations | Every 5 years |
| Industrial Installations | Annually |
| High-Risk Zones (e.g., Hospitals) | Every 3 years |
Important Note: Adhere to the recommended frequency to ensure continuous protection of the installations.
Section 6.5.3. Administrative Checks
During inspection visits, administrative checks are crucial to ensure that all documents are up-to-date and complete. These documents are essential for tracing the installation's history and ensuring its safety.
- Previous Inspection Reports 📋: These allow for a comparison between the current state of the installation and prior inspections, helping identify gradual deterioration.
- Maintenance Records 🛠️: Verification that all maintenance activities have been carried out according to standards and properly documented.
- Installation Plans 🗺️: Ensure that the schematics accurately reflect the current state of the installation, which is essential for any future updates or repairs.
Best Practices 📝Keeping well-organized administrative documentation facilitates future inspections and strengthens installation safety.
Section 6.5.4. Visual Checks
Visual checks are essential for quickly identifying visible signs of failure:
- Physical Damage 🛡️: Cracks, wear, or signs of deterioration on cables, enclosures, or protective devices.
- Signs of Overheating 🔥: Discoloration or burnt odors, which may indicate potential malfunctions.
- Installation Compliance ✅: Ensuring that equipment is correctly installed according to current standards.
Watch for Warning Signs! ⚠️Never ignore signs of overheating or visible damage; these may precede critical failures.
Section 6.5.5. Functional Testing
Functional tests are designed to assess the correct operation of protective and disconnecting devices. These tests include:
- Circuit Breaker and Fuse Testing 💥: Ensure that they effectively respond to overloads.
- Residual Current Device (RCD) Testing 🛡️: Verify that they cut off the power supply in case of leakage to prevent electric shocks.
- Emergency Scenario Simulations 🚨: For critical installations, these tests ensure that all safety devices respond appropriately.
:::example Practical Example 🔧 In a server room, simulate a power failure to check the responsiveness of circuit breakers and backup systems. :::
Section 6.5.6. Measurement Testing
Measurement testing provides quantitative data to evaluate the precise condition of the installation.
| Type of Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Insulation Resistance ⚡ | Verify conductor insulation to prevent current leaks. |
| Earth Electrode Resistance 🌍 | Ensure the effectiveness of the grounding system. |
| Conductor Continuity 🔗 | Confirm circuit continuity for optimal safety. |
Why Are These Measurements Important? 📊These measurements provide a precise assessment of electrical integrity, identifying risks not visible to the naked eye.
Section 6.5.7. Reports
Inspection reports summarize the results of the visits and facilitate tracking the condition of the installation over time.
Subsection 6.5.7.1. General Requirements
Inspection reports must include:
- Inspection Summary 📝: Types of checks conducted and their results.
- Observations and Recommendations 📌: Identification of areas needing corrective actions.
- Responsible Signatures ✍️: Ensuring the authenticity of the inspections.
Advice 📃Keep archived reports accessible for future inspections and maintenance interventions.
Subsection 6.5.7.2. Content of Inspection Reports for Residential Installations
For residential installations, the report should be concise yet comprehensive, including:
- Status of Safety Devices 🔒: Verification of circuit breakers, earth electrodes, and RCDs.
- Specific Recommendations 🏠: Maintenance or upgrade suggestions.
- Compliance with Standards ✅: Ensure that the installation meets current residential standards.
Subsection 6.5.7.3. Content of Inspection Reports for Non-Residential Installations
For non-residential installations, the report requires a higher level of detail:
- Functional Safety Analysis 🔍: Evaluation of critical devices and backup systems.
- Protection Measures for Sensitive Circuits ⚙️: Verification of safeguards in high-risk installations (e.g., medical, industrial).
- Risk Area Report 🚨: Details on measures for explosive or critical zones.
Attention for High-Risk Installations 🛠️Critical installations require exhaustive documentation to meet reinforced safety standards.
Section 6.5.8. Special Provisions for Electrical Installations Carried Out After June 1, 2020
Specific provisions apply to installations built after June 1, 2020, incorporating the latest regulatory updates.
Subsection 6.5.8.1. Existing Parts of Residential Installations Built After June 1, 2020
For residential installations, the provisions include:
- Maintenance of Previous Standards 🔄: For non-renovated parts, compliance is only required in case of major modifications.
- New Installations: Newly added parts must comply with current standards without exception.
Subsection 6.5.8.2. Existing Parts of Non-Residential Installations Built After June 1, 2020
For non-residential installations, the requirements include:
- Adherence to Current Standards 📏: Any new part added after 2020 must conform to the latest regulations.
- Specific Exemptions 🛠️: Original configurations may be maintained if they still meet essential safety standards.
- Update Reports 📝: In the event of significant modifications, reports must be provided to confirm overall compliance.
Required Updates 🕒Existing installations require an update report for major modifications to ensure continued safety.
Conclusion of Part 6 - Installation Inspections
Part 6 of the RGIE focuses on the inspection of electrical installations, a critical step to ensure the safety, compliance, and reliability of electrical systems. Regular inspections, carried out by accredited and qualified bodies, help detect anomalies, document the condition of installations, and provide a structured follow-up to mitigate risks.
Key points covered in this section include:
-
Administrative and Visual Inspections: Verification of essential documents, such as maintenance records and installation plans, along with a visual inspection of equipment to detect signs of failure.
-
Functional and Measurement Testing: Technical tests, including the evaluation of protective devices and resistance measurements, to confirm the functionality and safety of the installations.
-
Inspection Reports: These reports summarize the findings of the inspections, identify non-conformities, and provide recommendations for necessary corrective actions.
-
Monitoring and Sanctions of Accredited Bodies: Strict monitoring and potential sanctions ensure that the control bodies adhere to the standards and deliver reliable inspections.
-
Special Provisions for New Installations: Implementation of the latest standards for installations built after June 1, 2020, to meet updated regulatory requirements.
By rigorously following these procedures, installation safety is enhanced, risks are managed effectively, and compliance with RGIE requirements is maintained. Regular and structured inspections of electrical installations are the key to providing a safe environment that aligns with industry standards.
-
Administrative and Visual Inspections 📝: Ensure documents are up-to-date and conduct visual checks to detect visible signs of failure.
-
Functional and Measurement Testing 📏: Perform tests on safety devices and take precise measurements to assess the technical condition of the installation.
-
Inspection Reports 📋: Document findings, identify non-conformities, and provide recommendations to maintain safety and compliance.
-
Monitoring of Accredited Bodies 🔒: Ensure that inspection bodies adhere to high standards of quality and reliability, with sanctions applied in case of non-compliance.
-
Adapting to New Standards 📅: Apply special provisions for installations constructed after June 2020 to guarantee their compliance with the latest updates.
-
Continuous Prevention and Safety 🛠️: A program of regular inspections and preventive maintenance ensures the lasting safety of installations.
By following these practices, you ensure a high level of safety, consistent compliance, and effective management of electrical installations in accordance with RGIE requirements.
Disclaimer:
The contents of this site, docs.bativolt.com, are provided by Bativolt, a licensed electrical company. Intended for educational purposes, they are based on our interpretation and experience with the Belgian Electrical Regulations. Bativolt cannot be held responsible for any misuse or misinterpretation of the regulations or our documentation.
Copyright © 2025 Bativolt. All rights reserved.
Reproduction of the content on this site, even partially, is prohibited without prior authorization.
