PORTABLE APPLIANCE TESTING
Portable appliance testing or PAT testing is the name of a process by which electrical appliances are routinely checked for safety. The formal term for the process is "in-service inspection & testing of electrical equipment". Testing involves a visual inspection of the equipment and any flexible cables for good condition, and also where required, verification of earthing (grounding) continuity, and a test of the soundness of insulation between the current carrying parts, and any exposed metal that may be touched. The formal limits for pass/fail of these electrical tests vary somewhat depending on the category of equipment being tested.
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Why do I need to have my appliances tested?
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The best way of ensuring that your appliances are safe is to have a PAT test carried out on them. This is a good way for landlords to ensure that they are meeting their legal obligations to maintain high standards of electrical safety in their rented property.
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What does Portable Appliance Testing involve?
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To establish the safety and suitability of your electrical appliances, the competent person will carry out a visual inspection of the appliance, its plug and lead. For Class I (1) equipment they will also inject test signals into the cable and appliance to ensure their integrity.
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Who should do the work?
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Electrical work must only be carried out by a competent person who will have the required knowledge, skill and experience and qualifications.
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What will you receive?
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Upon completion of the portable appliance inspection and testing you should receive a report that details the following as a minimum:
A report containing each appliance type, name, location and description.
A full set of test results for each tested appliance.
A full list of any failed items with an explanation of their failure
A visible pass or fail label on each appliance detailing the inspection date, next test date and the inspector’s signature.
If you have any queries or questions then the engineer carrying out the inspection and testing will be happy to talk through your report with you and advise you of any further action required.