Ghana's periodic premises wiring inspection regime: The missing link in preventing fire outbreaks

Mandatory Inspection and Testing of Premises Did you know that premises in Ghana whose electrical installations have been in use for at least 10 years are required to undergo periodic wiring inspections? Under L.I. 2008, 'premises' includes land and any building, structure or installation situated on it. This may include a residence, factory, construction site, kiosk, temporary installation, recreational ground, institutional building, commercial building or public-access building. Regulation 11(2) and (3) requires periodic inspection and testing according to the following schedule: 10 years after the electrical installation is first put into use; every three to five years thereafter, until the installation has been in service for 30 years; and every two years after the installation has been in service for 30 years. Section 52 of the Energy Commission Act, 1997 (Act 541) also empowers the Energy Commission to appoint a Chief Inspector and other inspectors to inspect premises. In addition, Regulation 11 of L.I. 2008 permits electricity distribution utilities, principally the Electricity Company of Ghana and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company, to undertake inspections and testing. When carrying out these responsibilities, a distribution utility is required to: inspect and test an installation before it is put into use and conduct another inspection where an addition or alteration is made to its fixed wiring; take precautions to prevent danger to persons and damage to property or installed equipment; complete and sign the relevant Electrical Installation Certificate and the schedule of inspection and test results; and provide the documents to the person who requested the inspection where the installation passes the required inspection and testing. The law also prescribes sanctions for any person who obstructs or refuses to permit an inspection. Upon summary conviction, an offender may be fined up to 250 penalty units, imprisoned for up to two years, or subjected to both penalties. Electricity supply to the premises may also be disconnected. Who Is Responsible for Enforcement? The pressing question, therefore, is where responsibility lies for the limited enforcement of these requirements. Is it with the Energy Commission, the electricity distribution utilities, or both? Across the country, poorly trained electricians continue to be engaged to wire buildings, while many residential and commercial premises do not undergo the required periodic inspections. This lack of compliance and enforcement may be contributing to recurring fires in markets, homes and other buildings. The time has come for the relevant authorities to enforce the law more effectively. If inadequate staffing is limiting the Energy Commission's ability to conduct inspections, the government should support the Commission in recruiting and training qualified inspectors. Such an initiative could create employment while addressing a persistent danger that continues to threaten lives and property. The mandatory inspection regime should not remain merely a requirement on paper. It must become an effective and visible part of Ghana's fire-prevention strategy.