Inspections

NEN 3140 Inspection

A NEN 3140 inspection is the periodic inspection of an electrical installation that is already in use. Dutch employers must keep their installations safe under the Working Conditions Act, and NEN 3140 is the recognised standard to demonstrate that. How often you inspect is decided by the installation manager based on risk, because the law sets no fixed term.

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What is it?

What does the NEN 3140 standard cover?

NEN 3140 inspection carried out by BVo Advies

NEN 3140, "Bedrijfsvoering van elektrische installaties – Laagspanning", is the Dutch standard for the safe management and use of low-voltage electrical installations, based on the European NEN-EN 50110-1. Unlike NEN 1010, which applies when an installation is new or modified, NEN 3140 applies to installations already in use. A NEN 3140 inspection typically covers:

  • Periodic visual inspection of distribution boards, wiring and connections
  • Measurements to check for ageing, wear or degraded insulation
  • Inspection of portable and movable equipment used on site
  • Assessment of whether the installation still meets current safety requirements
  • A report with findings, risk classification and recommendations

NEN 3140 also defines responsibilities within an organisation, such as the installation-responsible person and who is qualified to work on or near live parts.

When required

When is a NEN 3140 inspection needed?

A NEN 3140 inspection is not a one-off check but a recurring one. How often it takes place is set by the installation manager based on the risk, use and environment of the installation. You typically need one when:

  • Your liability insurer requires periodic proof of a safe installation
  • It's part of your RI&E (risk inventory and evaluation) or ARBO occupational safety obligations
  • Portable equipment or distribution boards are due for their scheduled re-inspection
  • After an incident, near-miss or before an internal or external safety audit

Keeping your NEN 3140 inspections up to date is one of the simplest ways to demonstrate that your organisation takes electrical safety seriously.

Why BVo Advies

Why choose BVo Advies for a NEN 3140 inspection?

The BVo Advies company van

Certified inspectors

Trained and up to date with current NEN 3140 requirements and inspection intervals.

Clear communication

A structured report with practical, prioritised recommendations - not just raw measurements.

Tailored advice

We help you plan a realistic inspection interval based on your installation's actual risk profile.

Experience across sectors

From offices to workshops, warehouses and industrial sites.

Pricing

Cost of a NEN 3140 inspection

The cost of a NEN 3140 inspection depends on the number of distribution boards, connected equipment and the site's accessibility. We're happy to prepare a tailored quote, including a proposed inspection interval, so you always know what to expect.

FAQ

Common questions about NEN3140

How often should a NEN 3140 inspection be carried out?

The law sets no fixed interval. The installation manager decides it based on the use, environment and condition of the installation, as NEN 3140 requires. Using the risk method in annex I of NEN 3140, that comes out between 1.5 and 14 years. If your insurer sets a fixed term, the shorter of the two applies. We are happy to advise on a suitable interval.

Is NEN 3140 a legal requirement?

Dutch employers must keep their electrical installations safe under the Working Conditions Act and Decree. The policy rules that come with the Decree name NEN 3140 as the way to demonstrate that. Many insurers also require periodic inspection in their policy terms.

What's included in a NEN 3140 report?

A clear, well-organized report showing the condition of your installation, any deficiencies found, and practical recommendations, without unnecessary technical jargon.

Who decides how often the installation is inspected?

The installation manager. NEN 3140 gives this person that task, including what is inspected and how. If nobody has been appointed, the responsibility lies with the employer.

What is the difference between NEN 3140 and SCIOS Scope 8?

NEN 3140 is the standard. SCIOS Scope 8 is the certification for companies that inspect installations according to that standard. A Scope 8 PI inspection is therefore a NEN 3140 inspection by a SCIOS-certified company, which insurers often ask for.

What does a NEN 3140 inspection cost?

That depends on the number of distribution boards, the connected equipment and how accessible the site is. You receive a tailored quote in advance, including a proposed inspection interval.

Do you also inspect in Eindhoven and the rest of Brabant?

We are based in Helmond and inspect throughout the southern Netherlands, including Eindhoven, Den Bosch, Tilburg, Breda, Oss, Veghel, Deurne, Valkenswaard and Weert.
Related services
Which inspection do I need?NEN1010Scope 8 PIScope 10Technical Management
BVo Advies

Ready for certainty about the safety of your electrical installation?

Get in touch with BVo Advies for a NEN 3140 inspection. We work throughout South Netherlands, including Breda, Den Bosch, Deurne, Helmond, Oss, Tilburg, Valkenswaard, Veghel and Weert.

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+31 6 39799231Binnenvoort 12, 5706 GB Helmond