Electrical safety is paramount in any building, and ensuring compliance with the latest
standards and regulations is crucial for safeguarding occupants and property. One key
aspect of electrical safety is the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), a
comprehensive evaluation of an electrical installation’s safety. The CORGI recommendations
on an EICR report provide clear guidance on necessary actions to rectify any issues
identified. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between the various CORGI
recommendations and what they mean for property owners and managers.
What is an EICR?
An EICR, or Electrical Installation Condition Report, is an inspection and assessment of the
condition of electrical installations in a building. It identifies any deficiencies, potential
hazards, or non-compliances with current regulations, and provides recommendations for
remedial actions. The goal of an EICR is to ensure that electrical systems are safe,
functional, and comply with the relevant standards.
Understanding CORGI Recommendations
CORGI, originally known for its work in gas safety, has extended its expertise to electrical
safety and provides authoritative recommendations on EICR reports. These
recommendations are categorized to indicate the severity of the identified issues and the
urgency of the required actions. Here’s a breakdown of the key categories:
1. C1 (Danger Present)
Description: The C1 category signifies that a dangerous condition exists, posing an
immediate risk to persons or property. This could include exposed live wires or severely
deteriorated components that could result in electric shock or fire.
Action Required:
 Immediate Remedial Action: The issue must be addressed immediately to eliminate
the risk. It often involves isolating the affected circuit or component until it can be
properly repaired or replaced.
 Urgent Repairs: Arrangements should be made for urgent repairs to resolve the
dangerous condition.
Examples:
 Exposed live conductors that are accessible.
 Severe overheating or burning marks on electrical components.
2. C2 (Potentially Dangerous)
Description: The C2 category indicates that there is a potentially dangerous condition that
does not pose an immediate threat but could become hazardous if not addressed. This may
include components that are significantly deteriorated or wiring that does not comply with
current safety standards.
Action Required:
 Prompt Remedial Action: The issue should be resolved as soon as possible to
prevent the condition from becoming dangerous.
 Planned Repairs: Schedule repairs to rectify the identified issue before it
deteriorates further.
Examples:
 Electrical connections that are loose or corroded.
 Non-compliant earthing or bonding arrangements.
3. C3 (Improvement Recommended)
Description: The C3 category suggests improvements that, while not immediately
dangerous or potentially dangerous, would enhance the safety and compliance of the
electrical installation. These recommendations are often related to upgrading older
installations to meet current standards.
Action Required:
 Optional Improvements: While not mandatory, addressing these recommendations
will improve the overall safety and reliability of the electrical system.
 Future Planning: Consider incorporating these improvements in future maintenance
or renovation plans.
Examples:
 Updating old-style fuse boxes to modern consumer units with RCD protection.
 Replacing outdated or worn-out electrical accessories.
4. FI (Further Investigation Required)
Description: The FI category indicates that further investigation is required to determine the
nature and extent of a potential issue. This could be due to limited access during the initial
inspection or the need for specialized testing.
Action Required:
 Additional Inspection: Arrange for a detailed inspection to identify the exact
problem and the necessary corrective actions.
 Specialist Involvement: Engage qualified personnel to conduct further tests or
examinations.
Examples:
 Inaccessible areas that could not be inspected initially.
 Unusual signs or symptoms that suggest underlying issues.
The Importance of Acting on Recommendations
Acting on the recommendations in an EICR is critical for maintaining the safety and
compliance of electrical installations. Failure to address C1 or C2 issues promptly can result
in severe safety risks, including electric shock, fire hazards, and potential legal liabilities.
Additionally, incorporating C3 recommendations can enhance the reliability and efficiency of
the electrical system, providing long-term benefits.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between CORGI recommendations on an EICR report is
essential for property owners and managers. By addressing identified issues promptly and
planning for improvements, you can ensure the safety and compliance of your electrical
installations. Regular EICR inspections and adherence to recommendations not only protect
occupants but also preserve the value and integrity of your property.
For more information on EICR inspections and how to address CORGI recommendations,
contact the team today. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in maintaining safe and
compliant electrical systems.