PAT Testing
What is Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)?
Portable appliance testing is a procedure to maintain electrical equipment to prevent danger as far as is reasonably practical. All electrical equipment whether permanently connected or connected by plug and socket-outlet should be inspected and tested in accordance with the recommendations contained within the IEE Code of Practice.
Each test lasts only a few minutes depending on ease of access to the equipment
A full visual inspection is carried out checking for damaged flexes, plugs and equipment, incorrectly wired plugs and incorrectly rated fuses
Once the item passes the visual inspection the item is plugged into the portable appliance tester and a series of electrical tests are carried out
A label is then attached to the item showing the asset number, date when next test is due, and whether it passed or failed
The results are then sent back to our head office for processing where an Asset Register and Test Report is prepared and sent to you with the Certificate of Conformity
Why have PAT Testing carried out?
Important reasons for carrying out Portable Appliance Testing include:
- Adherence to the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974
- Compliance with the Electricity At Work Regulations 1989
- Minimise Fire Risks due to faulty/damaged electrical equipment
- Minimise Electric Shock Hazards due to faulty/damaged electrical equipment
- Insurance companies cannot dispute claims for damage through fire because of insufficient electrical maintenance
- Maintain the safety of employees, visitors and customers