Factory Acceptance Test Checklist for Portable Earthing and Short-Circuiting Sets: What Buyers Should Witness Before Shipment

A portable earthing and short-circuiting set should not be released for shipment simply because production is complete.

Before dispatch, utility buyers, EPC contractors, project engineers, and third-party inspectors may need to confirm that the finished equipment matches the approved specification, drawing, fault-duty requirement, cable arrangement, clamp interfaces, production records, marking, and agreed acceptance criteria.

This is the purpose of a well-defined Factory Acceptance Test, or FAT.

For portable earthing equipment, FAT should not be confused with repeating the complete type-test programme. It is a pre-shipment procurement and inspection process that connects the approved design with the actual equipment being supplied.

The key principle is:

A strong FAT confirms that the finished portable earthing set matches the approved configuration, required fault duty, production records, contractual acceptance criteria, and shipment identity before release.

Follow local regulations and your site safety procedure.

Quick Answer: What Should a Portable Earthing Set FAT Confirm?

A practical factory acceptance process should confirm five things:

1. The finished set matches the approved technical specification.
2. The complete assembly matches the approved drawing and bill of materials.
3. The fault-duty evidence supports the offered configuration.
4. Production and agreed acceptance records are complete.
5. All release-critical deviations are closed before shipment.

A useful FAT evidence chain is:

Approved specification → approved drawing → finished assembly → production records → agreed FAT checks → NCR closure → shipment release

The buyer should not begin with:

Does the product look correct?

The stronger question is:

Can the finished equipment be traced back to the approved technical requirement and supporting evidence?

For buyers still preparing the original procurement requirement, see how to specify a portable earthing kit in a tender.

FAT Is Not the Same as Type Testing or Site Acceptance

These terms serve different purposes.

Type Test

Type-test evidence supports the product design and declared performance.

For portable earthing and short-circuiting equipment, buyers should understand what configuration was evaluated and what fault-duty rating that evidence supports.

A type-test report does not automatically mean that every production set has undergone the same severe laboratory programme.

Routine Test and Production Checks

Routine or production-stage records support manufacturing consistency.

They answer a different question:

What checks were completed on the equipment being manufactured?

The exact production-verification requirements depend on the applicable product requirements, manufacturer quality plan, and contract.

Sampling and Acceptance Tests

Where the purchaser requires additional sample or acceptance checks, these should be defined before FAT.

The contract should state:

• Test item
• Sample quantity
• Acceptance criterion
• Witness requirement
• Hold point
• Applicable procedure
• Result format
• Action if a sample fails

Factory Acceptance Test

FAT is broader than one laboratory test.

It can combine:

• Document review
• Finished-product inspection
• Configuration verification
• Routine-record review
• Agreed sampling tests
• Functional checks
• Marking review
• Traceability
• NCR closure
• Shipment release

Site Acceptance

Site acceptance happens after delivery.

Its purpose is different.

The receiving team should verify that the shipment, documentation, identification, and site-control records remain consistent.

For that later stage, see our portable earthing equipment documentation checklist for site acceptance.

Define the FAT Scope Before the Factory Visit

A good FAT should begin before the buyer or inspector arrives at the factory.

Do not wait until inspection day to decide what should be checked.

The FAT package should normally reference the latest approved documents, such as:

• Purchase order
• Technical specification
• Approved supplier offer
• Approved technical data schedule
• Approved assembly drawing
• Bill of materials
• Technical deviation list
• Applicable standards
• Inspection and Test Plan
• FAT procedure
• Witness points
• Hold points
• Sampling plan
• Acceptance criteria
• Required test instruments
• FAT report format
• NCR procedure

The version status also matters.

An inspector should not be checking Revision A while production follows Revision C.

Before FAT begins, confirm which drawing and technical schedule represent the final approved configuration.

Step 1: Verify the Finished Set Against the Approved Drawing

Start with the complete assembly.

Do not begin by checking one cable or clamp in isolation.

Depending on the purchased configuration, a portable earthing and short-circuiting set may include:

• Phase clamps
• Earth clamp
• Phase leads
• Earth lead
• Connecting cluster
• Ferrules
• End fittings
• Lugs or adapters
• Operating stick
• Clamp operating interfaces
• Storage case or bag
• Identification labels
• Project-specific accessories

The FAT inspector should compare the physical set with the approved drawing and BOM.

Verify the Connection Topology

Check whether the finished arrangement matches the approved:

• Phase-to-phase connections
• Phase-to-earth path
• Common or individual earth paths
• Number of branches
• Connecting cluster
• Phase-lead arrangement
• Earth-lead arrangement

A description such as:

Three-phase earthing set

is not enough for FAT approval.

The actual topology must match the engineering requirement.

For detailed specification logic, see phase-to-phase and phase-to-earth connections in portable earthing sets.

Verify the Complete BOM

Confirm:

• Correct quantity of clamps
• Correct number of leads
• Correct cluster
• Correct adapters
• Correct operating pole
• Correct storage accessories
• No missing items
• No unapproved substitutions

If a component differs from the approved BOM, the difference should be technically reviewed rather than accepted verbally.

Step 2: Verify Cable Construction and Lengths

Cable should be checked against the approved technical schedule.

Useful FAT checks include:

• Conductor material
• Cable cross-sectional area
• Phase-lead length
• Earth-lead length
• Individual branch lengths
• Cable covering
• Color or transparency where specified
• Cable marking
• Visible condition
• Cable-to-ferrule transition

Do not record only:

Cable length: OK.

For a multi-lead assembly, individual lengths may matter.

A better FAT sheet records:

• Phase A lead: ___
• Phase B lead: ___
• Phase C lead: ___
• Earth lead: ___

The result should then be compared with the approved drawing and specified tolerance.

Step 3: Check Clamps and Connection Interfaces

A clamp should be accepted against the actual interface requirement.

Inspect:

• Clamp model
• Clamp material where specified
• Jaw geometry
• Jaw opening range
• Conductor or busbar compatibility
• Earth-point interface
• Contact surfaces
• Operating mechanism
• Operating-eye or pole interface
• Cable/ferrule connection
• Visible cracks
• Deformation
• Corrosion
• Marking

Functional Hand Operation

Where appropriate under the approved FAT procedure, the clamp mechanism can be checked for smooth and consistent operation.

The purpose is not to simulate field installation.

The purpose is to confirm that the finished mechanism operates as intended and matches the approved product.

For detailed interface selection, buyers can review our grounding clamp guide for busbars, conductors, and earth points.

Step 4: Inspect Ferrules and Cable Terminations

Ferrules and cable terminations are part of the electrical and mechanical current path.

During FAT, visually inspect:

• Ferrule type
• Compression quality
• Alignment
• Cable entry
• Exposed strands
• Damaged strands
• Cracks
• Deformation
• Corrosion
• Strain relief
• Heat-shrink or protective sleeve where specified
• Connection to the clamp
• Consistency between assemblies

A large cable does not compensate for a poor termination.

If one termination differs from the approved construction, determine whether the difference is:

• Approved
• Technically equivalent with supporting evidence
• A documented deviation
• A nonconformity

Our grounding cable termination guide explains ferrule, lug, and clamp-interface checks in more detail.

Step 5: Confirm the Fault-Current Rating Evidence

One of the most important FAT reviews is confirming that the finished assembly still matches the fault-duty evidence.

Do not approve from a statement such as:

25 kA earthing set.

For portable earthing and short-circuiting equipment, the rating should be reviewed through:

• Rated current
• Rated time
• Peak-current or peak-factor basis
• Cable cross-section
• Cable material
• Cable arrangement
• Lead configuration
• Phase clamps
• Earth clamp
• Ferrules
• Connecting cluster
• Relevant assembly drawing
• Test-report reference

The complete configuration matters.

IEC 61230 uses current, time, and peak factor as the core short-circuit withstand-rating language for this equipment. The system voltage alone does not define the short-circuit capability.

For a detailed buyer review, see portable earthing kit fault-current rating.

Do Not Automatically Repeat the Full Type-Test Programme During FAT

A FAT should not automatically become a repeat of every severe design-qualification test.

Type tests and contractual acceptance tests serve different purposes.

Some design-validation tests may require:

• Specialized laboratory equipment
• High fault energy
• Representative samples
• Destructive or potentially damaging testing
• Controlled test facilities

IEC 61318:2021 separates finished-product verification concepts from the product-specific type, routine, sampling, and acceptance provisions that belong in the applicable product standard.

Therefore, the better FAT approach is:

Review the relevant type-test evidence and confirm that the finished assembly matches the supported design.

Only repeat a severe qualification test during FAT when the contract specifically requires it and the test programme, samples, acceptance criteria, and post-test disposition have been agreed in advance.

Step 6: Review Production and Routine Records

FAT should review the production evidence linked to the order.

Depending on the manufacturer’s quality process and contractual requirement, records may include:

• Production batch
• Assembly identification
• Production date
• Cable batch
• Clamp batch or production reference
• Ferrule production reference
• Inspection record
• Routine test record
• Inspector approval
• Test date
• Instrument identification
• Results
• Rework status
• Retest status

The important question is:

Can the record be linked to the finished sets standing in front of the inspector?

A generic production certificate with no connection to the order provides weak FAT evidence.

Step 7: Perform the Agreed Acceptance and Sampling Checks

The FAT procedure should identify any buyer-witnessed acceptance or sampling checks.

Real utility procurement specifications for temporary protective grounding equipment commonly include combinations of visual inspection, hand operation, component verification, dimensional checks, resistance-related checks, and contractually specified mechanical sample tests. These should be treated as project examples rather than a universal IEC 61230 FAT list.

Visual and Dimensional Checks

These may include:

• Workmanship
• Finish
• Cable dimensions
• Cable lengths
• Clamp identity
• Ferrule identity
• Markings
• Assembly configuration

Functional Checks

These may include approved checks of:

• Clamp movement
• Screw mechanism
• Locking mechanism
• Pole interface
• Mechanical fit

Electrical or Resistance-Related Checks

Where required by the approved procedure, record:

• Test method
• Acceptance limit
• Instrument
• Actual reading
• Sample ID
• Result

Mechanical Sample Checks

If the contract requires a mechanical sample test, the FAT procedure should define:

• Which component
• How many samples
• Test method
• Acceptance criterion
• Whether the sample remains suitable for shipment afterward

Do not invent the sampling scope on FAT day.

Step 8: Verify Marking and Traceability

The physical product should connect clearly to the FAT report and shipment records.

Depending on the approved requirement, verify:

• Product model
• Kit ID
• Cable cross-section
• Rating information
• Manufacturer identification
• Production or batch identification
• Component markings
• Lead identification
• Serial or asset reference
• Applicable warning or specification label

A strong FAT traceability chain is:

Physical set → kit ID → FAT report → approved drawing → production record → CoC → packing list

If these records use conflicting identifiers, close the discrepancy before release.

For lifecycle control, see our guide to identification and traceability for portable earthing sets.

Step 9: Check Test Instruments and Calibration Records

A measurement is only useful when the buyer can understand how it was obtained.

For FAT measurements, check:

• Instrument identification
• Instrument type
• Calibration status
• Calibration validity
• Suitable measurement range
• Test method
• Acceptance criterion
• Recorded result

A FAT sheet that only states:

Resistance test: PASS

is weaker than one that records:

• Equipment ID
• Test instrument
• Test condition
• Acceptance criterion
• Actual reading
• Result

The purpose is traceable evidence, not paperwork for its own sake.

Step 10: Record and Close FAT Nonconformities

FAT should not end with verbal promises.

Any nonconformity or deviation should be recorded.

A practical disposition may include:

• Accept
• Accept with approved documented action
• Rework required
• Retest required
• Hold
• Reject

Use a Clear NCR Closure Process

A useful process is:

Finding → NCR or punch item → corrective action → re-inspection → affected retest where required → closure → release

If a ferrule is replaced, for example, the corrected connection should be rechecked according to the approved QA/FAT process.

The inspector should not simply record:

Repaired.

The FAT record should show whether the affected item was re-inspected or retested as required.

Do Not Release Shipment With Open Critical Deviations

Before shipment release, confirm:

• All hold points are closed
• Required witness points are completed
• Required tests passed
• Rework is complete
• Affected retests are complete
• Technical deviations are approved
• NCRs are closed
• Final product IDs are recorded
• Documentation is complete
• Packing configuration is approved

A shipment should not be technically released because:

The vessel booking is already confirmed.

Commercial schedule pressure should not replace the approved acceptance process.

What Should Be in the FAT Release Package?

A useful FAT release package may include:

• Signed FAT report
• Completed FAT checklist
• Approved technical specification
• Final approved drawing
• Final bill of materials
• Technical deviation schedule
• Type-test references
• Routine production records
• Acceptance or sample-test records
• Actual recorded FAT results
• Instrument and calibration references
• NCR register
• NCR closure evidence
• Kit or batch identification list
• Marking photos
• Certificate of Conformity
• Final packing list
• Shipment release note

This package then supports the next stage:

Site acceptance after delivery

The factory and site processes should connect, but they should not be treated as the same activity.

Portable Earthing Set FAT Decision Table

Common FAT Mistakes Buyers Should Avoid

Arriving Without an Approved FAT Procedure

The buyer and supplier may have different expectations about what will be tested.

Treating the Type-Test Certificate as the FAT

Type-test evidence supports the design. FAT verifies the actual order against the approved requirement.

Trying to Repeat Every Type Test

Some qualification tests are not appropriate as routine pre-shipment activities.

Checking the Cable but Not the Complete Assembly

The current path also includes clamps, ferrules, clusters, and terminations.

Using Voltage Level as the Main Rating

A description such as “33 kV set” does not define required short-circuit current, rated time, or peak duty.

Ignoring the Connection Topology

The finished phase-to-phase and phase-to-earth arrangement must match the approved design.

Ignoring Clamp Interfaces

The correct cable is not enough if the clamp does not match the busbar, conductor, or earth point.

Accepting Measurements Without Instrument Traceability

A result should be linked to a suitable identified measurement instrument.

Failing to Link FAT Records to Product IDs

The buyer cannot prove which equipment was inspected.

Closing Deviations Verbally

Technical deviations should be documented and approved.

Shipping Before NCR Closure

Open release-critical items should remain on hold.

Confusing Factory Acceptance With Site Acceptance

FAT occurs before shipment. Site acceptance begins after the equipment arrives.

How We Review a Portable Earthing FAT Requirement

When we prepare a portable earthing order for factory acceptance, we begin with the approved engineering documents.

We Freeze the Approved Configuration

We confirm the latest approved drawing, BOM, cable arrangement, clamps, ferrules, and accessories.

We Confirm the Fault Duty

We review the required current, rated time, peak basis, and supporting assembly evidence.

We Confirm Witness and Hold Points

The FAT procedure identifies which activities require purchaser or third-party participation.

We Prepare the Finished Assemblies for Identification

Each FAT item should be identifiable against the order and inspection records.

We Review Production Records

Routine and production evidence is checked separately from type-test evidence.

We Verify Cables, Clamps, Ferrules, and Interfaces

We review the complete current path instead of accepting components independently.

We Perform the Agreed FAT Checks

Only the approved contractual FAT scope is used.

We Record Actual Results

Where measurements are required, the FAT sheet records the result rather than only a PASS statement.

We Record Deviations

Any difference from the approved specification is made visible.

We Reinspect After Rework

Affected items are checked again according to the approved process.

We Release the Shipment After Required Items Are Closed

The FAT package is completed before technical shipment release.

This process helps create a clear evidence chain between what the buyer approved and what the factory ships.

FAQ About Portable Earthing Set Factory Acceptance

Is FAT Required by IEC 61230 for Every Portable Earthing Order?

Do not treat FAT as one universal mandatory IEC 61230 event with a fixed checklist. The pre-shipment acceptance scope should come from the applicable product requirements, RFQ, purchase order, project specification, ITP, and agreed FAT procedure.

Is a Type-Test Certificate Enough for FAT?

No. Type-test evidence supports the product design and rating. FAT should also confirm the actual finished configuration, production evidence, marking, traceability, contractual checks, and shipment status.

Should the Short-Circuit Test Be Repeated During Every FAT?

Not automatically. Short-circuit qualification can be a severe design-validation activity. Buyers should review the existing rating evidence and require additional testing only where the contract and approved procedure call for it.

What Should Buyers Visually Inspect During FAT?

Check the complete assembly, including cables, clamps, ferrules, terminations, cluster connections, workmanship, markings, lead lengths, accessories, and consistency with the approved drawing.

Should Every Portable Earthing Set Be Tested During FAT?

The answer depends on the applicable routine requirements, manufacturer QA process, sampling plan, contract, and FAT procedure. Do not assume that one universal sampling rule applies to every project.

What Is the Difference Between FAT and Site Acceptance?

FAT takes place before shipment and focuses on the finished order, production evidence, contractual acceptance, and release. Site acceptance occurs after delivery and focuses on receiving identity, documentation, asset registration, condition, and site-control readiness.

What Happens if a Set Fails a FAT Check?

The issue should be recorded. Depending on its severity, the item may require clarification, rework, retesting, hold, or rejection. Required corrective action should be closed before technical release.

What Documents Should Be Signed Before Shipment?

Depending on the contract, the release package may include the FAT report, completed checklist, test records, deviation approvals, NCR closure records, final identification list, CoC, packing list, and shipment release approval.

Practical Buyer Summary

A Factory Acceptance Test for portable earthing and short-circuiting equipment should not be reduced to:

Check the cable, check the clamps, sign the report.

A stronger FAT verifies:

• Approved configuration
• Connection topology
• Complete BOM
• Cable material
• Cable cross-section
• Individual cable lengths
• Phase clamps
• Earth clamp
• Ferrules
• Terminations
• Connecting cluster
• Fault-current rating
• Rated time
• Peak-current basis
• Type-test evidence
• Production records
• Agreed acceptance checks
• Product marking
• Batch or kit traceability
• Test instrument records
• Technical deviations
• NCR closure
• Shipment-release documentation

The strongest FAT chain is:

Approved specification → approved drawing → finished assembly → production evidence → FAT inspection and agreed tests → NCR closure → technical release → shipment

For available equipment configurations, buyers can review our portable earthing and short-circuiting kits.

After factory release and shipment, the next control point is portable earthing equipment site acceptance.

Follow local regulations and your site safety procedure.