Page 5 of 8 8.2 When assessing the frequency of inspection and testing it is important to take into account the following: Type of equipment and whether it is handheld or not. Manufacturer’s recommendations. Initial integrity and soundness of the equipment. The age of the equipment. Working environment where the equipment is used (e.g. wet/dusty/indoors/outdoors). The frequency of use of the equipment. Any foreseeable abuse of the equipment. The effects of any modifications or repairs to the equipment. Analysis of previous records of maintenance, including both formal inspection and combined inspection and testing. 9. NEW EQUIPMENT 9.1 There is generally no requirement to carry out tests or visual inspections on new items of electrical equipment prior to the equipment being put into first use, however it is essential that a user check is always carried out to identify any obvious visible evidence of damage. If there are any signs of damage, the equipment must, not under any circumstances, be used. It must be referred back to the supplier/manufacturer and/or thoroughly tested for electrical safety.