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SAD COWSE — what the inspection looks forWhat does SAD COWSE stand for?

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The detailed inspection is a visual exercise, and the acronym is the memory hook for it. Guidance Note 3 · Section 3 lists the same things in full; highlight that list and tab the page.

Looking for
SSafetyAnything presenting a risk of shock, burn or fire
AAgeingMaterial degradation with time — brittle insulation, perished rubber
DDamageImpact, rodents, work by other trades, water
CCorrosionRust, verdigris, armour left out of a gland
OOverloadingSigns of heat, discolouration, circuits carrying more than intended
WWear and tearWorn accessories, loose fixings, cracked faceplates
S ESuitability & External influencesRight equipment for the environment it is in
Corrosion arrives quickly. Armour pulled out of a gland on an outdoor SWA will show corrosion within weeks in a normal British autumn — faster if it is wet.

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That was one section. There are 583.

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  • Building Regs
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  • Fundamental Inspection & Testing
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