Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)

 

There are two main types of electrical testing and inspection in the home and office. Periodic Inspection (EICR) of all the fixed wiring, and Portable Appliance testing.

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Portable appliance testing in the home starts at £49.00 for up to 10 items, and £1.75 for each additional item.

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What is PAT testing?

PAT stands for ‘portable appliance testing’, and refers to the testing of electrical appliances and equipment. The aim is to make sure that, once some time has passed since it was new, the appliance is still safe to use.

This can be done visually, by a professional, or through electrical testing. It is important that a specialist who knows what they are doing carries this out – faulty electrical equipment can be dangerous. That’s why we always put safety first and foremost.

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Do I need a PAT testing service?

Whether you should have PAT testing depends on a number of factors. If you have had certain appliances for a long time, or are unsure if they are still in a safe condition to use, you should arrange a test. Appliances that you use more regularly might need PAT testing.

If you are unsure about whether you could benefit from PAT testing services, just give us a call. We’d be happy to discuss your appliances and advise on the best course of action, free of charge.

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How often should I test electrical appliances? (currently under review)

The frequency with which you should test your appliances largely depends on circumstances. For example, a microwave in use every day, or power tools used at busy sites, may need to be tested more often than an appliance that spends most of its time in a cupboard. But at least every 2 years.

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Is PAT testing a legal requirement?

Technically, PAT is not necessarily required by law. However, it is a legal necessity to ensure electrical appliances are safe. The law does not stipulate how often electrical appliances should be tested, or who should test them, but the safest way is with by a professional.

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Who is responsible?

Regulation 3 of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 states:

"It shall be the duty of every employer and self employed person to comply with the provisions of the Regulations in as far as they relate to matters which are within his control.

It shall be the duty of every employee while at work:

(a) to co-operate with his employer so far as is necessary to enable any duty placed on that employer by the provision of the Regulations to be complied with:
(b) comply with the provision of these regulations in so far as they relate to matters which are within his control."

The buck stops at the employer, but it is the responsibility of everyone at work to ensure the electrical safety of equipment. If it is found to be unsafe it is every employees responsibility to inform the relevant personnel within the organisation.

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Why should I carry out Portable appliance testing?

PAT testing is an important duty in any environment where people work or visit. The Electricity at Work Regulations place a legal responsibility on employers, employees and self-employed persons to comply with the provisions of the regulations and take reasonable, practicable steps to ensure that no danger results from using electrical equipment. This requires the implementation of a systematic and regular program of maintenance, inspection and testing. The Health & Safety at Work Act (1974) places such an obligation in the following circumstances:

1. Where appliances are used by employees.

2. Where the public may use appliances in establishments such as hospitals, schools, hotels, shops etc.

3. Where appliances are supplied or hired.

4. Where appliances are repaired or serviced.

The IET publish a Code of Practice which forms the guidance's of PAT testing Best Practice.

It is therefore imperative that you have a regular and recordable PAT testing routine whether you do it yourself or use a reputable Electrical Contractor, to ensure you comply with the Electricity at Work Regulations or indeed the Health and Safety at Work Act.

 

More information from the Health and Safety Executive can be found here:- http://www.hse.gov.uk/electricity/faq-portable-appliance-testing.htm

 

Portable Appliance testing starts from as little as £49.00 Inc. 10 items plus £1.75 per additional items. For larger quantities or multiple properties please enquire... for a no obligation quote.......