Electrical Inspection and Testing: Understanding the City & Guilds 2391-52 Course

What is the 2391-52 Course?

The 2391-52 course, officially known as the City & Guilds 2391-52 Level 3 Award in Inspection and Testing, is a comprehensive qualification combining initial verification and periodic inspection and testing of electrical installations. 
Electrical inspection and testing is an important processes ensuring the safety, efficiency, and compliance of electrical installations in the UK. The 2391-52 course is a pivotal qualification for experienced electricians and those looking to enhance their inspection and testing skills. The course equips you with the knowledge and skills required to perform these tasks effectively. This article provides with an in-depth overview of the components of the 2391-52 course, the steps involved in electrical testing, the importance of this qualification, and the role of Guidance Note 3 in the process. 

What is included in the 2391-52 course

The City & Guilds 2391-52 course covers several key areas, including:

  • Regulations and Standards: Understanding the requirements of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671).
  • Initial Verification: Procedures for verifying new electrical installations before they are put into service.
  • Periodic Inspection and Testing: Techniques for inspecting and testing existing electrical installations to ensure continued safety and compliance. This covers both single phase and three phase distribution installations.
  • Documentation and Certification: Proper completion of inspection and testing documentation, including Electrical Installation Certificates (EIC), Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs).
  • Practical Skills: Hands-on training in the use of testing equipment and performing various tests.

Recommended Prerequisite for the 2391 course

Before embarking on the 2391-52 course, it is highly recommended to complete the 18th Edition Amendment 2. This ensures that electricians are up-to-date with the latest changes and requirements in the wiring regulations, which is crucial for effective inspection and testing.

Importance of the Guidance Note 3 (GN3) in the 2391-52 Inspection & Testing COurse

Guidance Note 3 (GN3) is an essential book for electricians, providing comprehensive guidance on the inspection and testing of electrical installations. It is aligned with the requirements of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) and is a vital reference for both the 2391-52 course and practical application in the field. Below is an overview of what is covered in GN3.

Key Areas Covered in Guidance Note 3 (GN3)

  • Introduction to Inspection and Testing
  • Initial Verification
  • Periodic Inspection and Testing
  • Inspection and Testing Procedures
  • Safety Protocols
  • Documentation and Reporting
  • Special Locations and Conditions
  • Testing of RCDs
  • Fault Diagnosis and Rectification

Steps of Electrical Testing

Electrical testing involves several systematic steps to ensure the installation’s safety and functionality. The primary steps include:

Safe Isolation: Ensuring the circuit or equipment to be tested is safely isolated from the supply to prevent accidental electrocution. This involves the use of lockout/tagout devices and testing the circuit to confirm it is de-energized.
Visual Inspection: Examining the installation for signs of damage, wear, and compliance with regulations.
Continuity Testing: Ensuring all conductors are continuous and have no breaks.
Insulation Resistance Testing: Checking the integrity of insulation between conductors and earth.
Polarity Testing: Verifying that all connections are correctly wired.
Earth Fault Loop Impedance Testing: Measuring the impedance of the earth fault loop to ensure proper disconnection of faulty circuits.
Residual Current Device (RCD) Testing: Confirming the correct operation of RCDs to trip under fault conditions.
Functional Testing: Ensuring that all installed devices and systems operate correctly under normal conditions.

The Exams and Assessments in the 2391-52 course

  • Short Written Exam: Testing theoretical knowledge of inspection and testing procedures.
  • Practical Assessment: Demonstrating practical skills in performing inspections and tests on electrical installations on single phase and three phase systems, simulating a real life environment using test rigs.
  • Multiple-Choice Exam: Assessing understanding of regulations and best practices. This is an open book exam requiring you to achieve 75% marks to pass. A thorough understanding and preperation is required to pass this exam.

Learning Support Provided by Total Skills on the 2391-52 inspection & testing course

Total Skills offers the 2391-52 course in small class sizes of 6 learners with 2 trainers. This approach ensures one-to-one support and personalised learning experiences, providing the best chance of success for each participant.

Additionally, Total Skills offers a mobile app and learning system that provides additional support for preparing for the exams, the moment you sign up. This innovative tool includes practice tests and study materials to help candidates succeed in the City & Guilds 2391-52 inspection and testing course.

Summary of the City & Guilds 2391-52 course

The 2391-52 course is an essential qualification for electricians in the UK, covering critical aspects of electrical inspection and testing. Alongside Guidance Note 3, which provides detailed procedures and form-filling instructions, electricians can ensure the safety, compliance, and efficiency of electrical installations. By mastering these skills and utilising resources like the Total Skills mobile app, electricians can enhance their professional capabilities and career prospects. Furthermore, the certification gained from this course is crucial for meeting insurance requirements and ensuring landlord compliance with legal standards. Total Skill's approach of small class sizes ensures personalised support, maximizing the chances of success for each learner.