The thing to remember about Part 6 is that it’s not an instruction book. It does not tell you how to do any inspection or especially testing, it just tells you what you should do.
Breaks down into 3 Chapters…
Chapter 61: Initial Verification (aka First Check)
This is the largest of the 3 Chapters and sets out the requirement for initial verification for new installations and also for additions or alterations to existing electrical installations. Contains the ‘inspection check-list’ and tells you what you are looking for when inspecting. The electrical testing ‘sequence’ and the only table (T61 minimum insulation resistance values) are also contained here.
Chapter 62: Periodic Inspection and Testing
About three-quarters of a page and sets out the criteria for completing a periodic inspection. The need, process and the frequency for periodic inspection and testing is all explained here.
Chapter 63: Certification and Reporting
Which certificate or report to use and when, and makes reference to Appendix 6 where examples or ‘model forms’ may be found. Remember a certificate is certifying that a new electrical installation / addition or alteration complies with BS761, and a report is an overview of the condition of an existing electrical installation ie a periodic.