Electrical Safety in London Nurseries and Childminder Settings

Nurseries, pre-schools and childminders look after young children who are curious, quick and at eye level with sockets and cables. Whether you run a nursery from a dedicated building or care for children in your own London home, keeping the electrics safe is part of keeping children safe. This guide covers the main points. It is general information, not legal advice.

What inspectors and insurers look for

Early years providers are expected to keep premises and equipment safe and to assess risks. Inspectors, local authorities and insurers may ask how you manage electrical safety. Clear records of inspections and testing make this easy to show. Check the current guidance from your regulator and the terms of your insurance.

Fixed wiring checks

An EICR tests the fixed wiring, sockets, lights and consumer unit. For a nursery building, regular periodic inspection is a sensible standard, and many settings follow a five-yearly cycle. Childminders working from home benefit from the same check, especially in older London houses. Our guide to how often you need an EICR explains the usual intervals.

RCD protection

RCDs cut the power quickly if current leaks to earth, for example through a person. Every circuit in a childcare setting should ideally have RCD protection, and the test button should be pressed regularly. If your RCD trips often, find out why rather than living with it. See our guide on why an RCD keeps tripping.

Sockets, cables and appliances

• Keep cables out of reach and away from walkways where children could pull or trip on them.
• Avoid extension leads in play areas. If more sockets are needed, have them installed properly.
• Check plugs, leads and appliances such as kettles, heaters and sterilisers for damage.
• Keep electrical equipment away from water play areas and nappy changing sinks.
• Check that light fittings, switches and socket faceplates are secure and not cracked.

Our guide to adding sockets explains the safe options.

Fire alarms and emergency lighting

Nurseries usually need a fire alarm system and emergency lighting suited to the building, set out in the fire risk assessment. Childminders at home should have working smoke alarms on every floor, ideally interlinked. Test alarms regularly and record it.

Book a check

Energy North Ltd carries out electrical inspections for nurseries and childminders across North, East and West London with City & Guilds certified electricians, and can visit outside opening hours. See our EICR service.