The 'formal visual inspection' as it is called is classed as formal because the inspection is actually recorded some where either on paper or computer record.

The appliance inspection will invariably have incorporated the following plus much more:

• Opening of the plug top,
• Checking for plug top damage,
• Checking the correct termination of
  conductors,
• Ensuring no reverse polarity on primary conductors,
• Tightening of terminals,
• Checking the flex anchorage,
• Checking the effective glanding,
• Checking for safe flex/cable routing,
• Ensuring correct fusing for both appliance and flex capacity,
• Checking current capacity of plug, flex and connectors in conjunction with the appliance load,
• Ensuring no overloading potential,
• Ensuring no damage to flex,
• Ensuring correct IP (ingress protection) of the plug for the environment,
• Ensuring safe location of the appliance,
• Checking for appliance damage,
• Checking for appliance safe working under PUWER 98 (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulation 1998) within the limitations of the inspection
• The appropriateness of RCD protection associated with either the environment and or use to which the appliance is being put