The Death of the Local Repairer?
In taking a brief look at the documents supplied by WRAP from its website called “Washing Machine Product Protocols” which are displayed by some Companies signed up to PAS 141, we at EEE Safe would like to make a few observances which give cause for a little concern.
- Under the Section Test Procedure, there is a reference “all equipment should undergo Portable Appliance Testing to ensure electrical safety” Just PAT Testing is not an indication of Electrical Safety in relation to Washing Machines, which could be implied in this statement. This is due to the internal electrical construction of most, if not all washing machines (and major domestic appliances for that matter). Also In this Section, there does not appear to be a mention of the use of specific insulation test equipment to be used on “ such “internal insulation critical components”, which are checked for in electrical safety. This cannot be done just by plugging an appliance into a PAT Tester. In addition PAT Testers often have a rather ‘Low’ upper limit for the display of insulation resistance readings and many can only display a reading of less than 10 M Ohms therefore there is no indication as to how much higher or in fact nearer than this figure the actual resistance of an appliance really is.
- In the document, there is no mention of the use within modern washing machines and washer dryers of 3 phase motors and electronic control system which require an important waiting period of a MINIMUM of 5 minutes PRIOR to removing any panels/lids and/or closely inspecting the internal components of an appliance. It is important therefore in our view that anyone employed following this protocol should have a certain degree of knowledge of Ohms law, if not more.
- The Protocol states also, “Where replacement components are to be used, they should be OEM replacement components or OEM approved patter components; or reclaimed identical components; or aftermarket components appropriate for the intended application and purpose”The word reclaimed could perhaps be replaced to say ‘functionally and competently quality assessed/assured reclaimed items’ Simple Part swapping without testing or knowledge could potentially mean defective items may be used simply because they look the same and do not exhibit the original fault, but as a result may have some other ‘unseen’ problem.
EEE Safe were not part of the consultancy on PAS 141, but have repeatedly asked for information to offer advice and comment and as such we can’t be sure that the current protocols exist in the latest documents. We believe that the experienced and proven repair companies are the best and safest choice when it comes to repairing appliances. We particularly support choosing those who are members of Trade Organisations and also those who are EEE Safe DAT’s (Domestic Appliance Technicians).
The comments on this Blog are simply the views of EEE Safe however EEE Safe cannot take responsibility or be held liable to any person for any loss or damage arising out of or in connection with it being inaccurate , incomplete or misleading
Related posts
