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How Does PAT Testing Work?
The earth continuity test allows for verification of the connectivity between any exposed metal parts and the protective earth pin in the mains plug of a class 1 appliance. This involves connecting the item of electrical equipment to the PAT tester, and the test probe to exposed metal parts. A current is then transferred from the PAT tester along a mains cord to the enclosure. This current then flows back to the PAT tester via the protective earth conductor. This will result in the display of the protective earth path resistance.
The measurement of a predictive conductor current will require the connection of the appliance to the PAT tester. The powering of the appliance will result in a current flowing along the mains supply via live and neutral conductors. The live and neutral currents will ideally be neutral. However, the PAT may highlight an imbalance between the live and neutral currents in some instances.
Do I need to do PAT testing?
The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) advises that PAT testing should include three steps – user checks, a formal visual inspection and the manual PAT test using a portable appliance tester.
Step 1 - user checks
All users of electrical equipment should have some basic training in how to use the equipment safely, as well as what danger signs to be aware of, as part of their induction. Users should feel confident in visually checking the equipment regularly for obvious signs of damage, as well as potential risks, such as cables trapped under desks or water hazards.
Step 2 - a formal visual inspection
Prior to the manual PAT test, a formal visual inspection of the equipment should be carried out. According to the HSE, this process usually flags up around 90% of problems and it can be carried out by a competent member of staff with the relevant training, or a professional.
It is essential that the equipment is turned off and unplugged before beginning the visual inspection. The checklist should include:
1)The plug
-Look for any signs of damage, including cracks, burns or bent pins, and check that the wiring is correct. The live, neutral and earth conductors should all be connected to their relevant terminals tightly.
3)The appliance
-Check for any obvious damage, including cracks, burns, corrosion and casing wear and tear
4)The mains socket
-Although this is not part of a PAT test, it should be included in the visual inspection. The mains testing of sockets is done during a fixed wire test.
-Look for cracks, signs of over-heating and any loose fittings and check the shutter mechanism
5)RCD (Residual Current Device) checks
-RCDs are fitted with a test button and will trip if the current flowing through the live conductor is different to that in the neutral
-The inspection should look for signs of damage, check the operating current and test the ‘test’ button to ensure it’s in working order