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Who can carry out a PAT test?
The formal visual inspection should be carried out by someone competent with an appropriate level of knowledge. In low-risk environments, a member of staff could be tasked with this if they were given the right training.
However, in high risk environments, or when the equipment requires an inspection and manual testing, it is always advised to use an experienced and qualified professional with expertise in the field. They should be well-trained and have the correct equipment for the job.
phs Compliance is the largest and most experienced provider of PAT testing in the UK. We are also the only electrical testing company in the UK to hold UKAS 17020 accreditation for the inspection of electrical installations and appliances.
With over 160 qualified electrical engineers available, our experienced team conduct these vital safety tests during your operational hours, without disrupting your customers or staff. We are proud to also be fully accredited by NICEIC, BIFM and CHAS, amongst others.
PAT TESTING COURSE
PAT testing refers to the examination of portable electrical appliances to ensure they are safe to use.
An effective pat testing regime ensures faulty appliances are identified before causing harm.
Faulty electrical appliances are the primary cause of workplace fires. Across the UK, around 2,000 workplace fires and 1,000 electrical shocks are caused by faulty electrical appliances each year.
Maintaining electrical equipment in a safe condition is a requirement of the Electricity at Work Regulations.
This accredited online PAT testing course provides the knowledge needed to safely test and maintain electrical appliances and implement an appropriate PAT testing regime.
What are the Different Types of PAT Testers?
PAT testing equipment has various levels of functionality. Basic PASS/FAIL kits are very easy to use and relatively inexpensive. They are the preferred choice for a range of businesses, clearly indicating whether an item of electrical equipment has passed or failed. Mains-powered testers require connection to an electrical supply. However, the self-contained battery versions are ideal for large workplaces due to their portability and ease of use. They commonly feature basic light systems that indicate whether electrical items have passed or failed the test.
Basic PAT testing equipment also allows for the establishment of:
- Earth continuity
- Insulation resistance
- Polarity
Basic PAT testers don't display the complete set of electrical test results, and neither do they allow for test configuration or data storage. However, they are often the best choice for obtaining electrical test results quickly and easily.
Advanced PAT testing kits offer the following types of functionality:
- Portable RCD lead testing
- Adjustable PASS test limits
- Substitute and mains powered leakage testing
- Fuse testing
- Lead polarity testing
While a 500V insulation test voltage is typical and suitable for a number of appliances, many PAT testers now include the option of a 250V insulation resistance test. This is essential for testing sensitive and surge-protected equipment, such as IT hardware.
Advanced PAT testing kits are suitable for users with a high level of technical knowledge and expertise. These advanced systems are particularly well suited to facilities management, as they allow for the recording of the location and test status of equipment and appliances. Some of these systems can also transfer the test results to computers for digital interpretation. Test records can be maintained with PAT software.
Do I need to PAT test employees’ personal equipment?
Yes, you have a joint responsibility with your employee to maintain any equipment used by your employee for their job, including personal laptops, desk lighting, fans or any other electrical equipment they use, including leased items like photocopiers.
To promote good practice, all equipment users should receive training in how to use electrical equipment safely and what danger signs to look for during daily use, such as loose wiring, burns or cracks, as part of their induction.
However, most workplaces will have staff members or duty holders who are responsible for conducting regular visual inspections of electrical equipment to ensure they are safe. They are also responsible for ensuring annual PAT tests are carried out and recording results. Duty holders should receive additional training to ensure they have the knowledge and understanding to carry out the role competently.
How Regular should you carry out portable appliance testing?
Your PAT tests should be no more than four years apart, but this truly depends on three main elements that you need to consider, what class of electrical appliance, category and the risk level of the electrical equipment.
Also, it is worth noting that the health and safety executive considers the age of the equipment, manufacturers recommendations, how much it is used if the equipment is commonly abused. Some items will need a formal visual inspection every three months with a portable appliance testing every six months. That is why it is not a straight answer, to how often because of this it is worth speaking to a professional to ask if any equipment needs an inspection and testing.
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