Read on as we tackle both of those points…
PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. That may seem a bit odd, given that PAT testing consequently means ‘portable appliance testing testing’ – but it’s simply down to PAT being abbreviated so commonly.
Because of the above, it’s sometimes known as PA Testing. However, given that it’s much easier and quicker to say “PAT testing”, this is definitely the most common name.
PAT testing is a way of inspecting and testing portable appliances in line with the 1989 Electricity at Work Regulations. In short, appliances must be tested for three key safety and function aspects – lead polarity, insulation resistance and earth continuity.
It applies to a vast array of appliances and machines that are plugged into your mains – not just those you would associate with being ‘portable’, including:
PAT testing deems whether portable appliances are safe to use or unsafe. If it’s the latter, it will need to be removed from use with immediate effect. Meanwhile, safe items will be labelled with an appliance ID, date of test, and a date for when the next test is required.
While it’s not a legal obligation in itself, 1989 Electricity at Work regulation 4(2) states:
“As may be necessary to prevent danger, all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, such danger”
Put simply, PAT testing is a reasonably practicable way to prevent danger in the workplace.
If accidents occur, the courts will usually look for PAT testing (along with other checks) to see if you’ve done your bit to protect your staff. In addition, many insurance companies also ask for PAT testing reports while settling claims to ensure there was no foul play involved in case of an accident. Failure to keep up with PAT tests is typically seen as a failure to keep your workplace safe.
The result? Financial penalties and even imprisonment. In 2016, Wingate Electrical was fined £225,000 for failing to inspect equipment and failing to isolate a high voltage power supply. These failings resulted in a worker suffering life-changing burn injuries, enduring a serious electric shock and spending almost a month in a coma.
PAT testing is a simple, straightforward process that’s designed to ensure that your electrical appliances are safe to use. Here’s how it works:
Visual inspection – A tester begins by examining the appliance along with its plug and cable. They’ll look for any signs of damage, wear or loose connections.
Preliminary checks – The appliance is checked to make sure that it’s suitable and safe for testing. Initial checks include making sure an appliance is clean, dry and has the correct fuse rating.
Earth continuity test – For appliances with metal parts, the tester will check that there is a good connection between the earth pin in the plug and any exposed metal parts. This helps determine if the appliance can safely carry away any fault current to prevent electric shock.
Insulation resistance test – The tester measures the resistance between the appliance’s live parts and its casing. This test checks to see if the insulation is still able to prevent electric shocks.
Polarity check – The tester checks that the live, neutral and earth wires are connected correctly in the plug.
Functionality test – Finally, the appliance is switched on to confirm that it works correctly without any potential safety problems.
Once the appliance has passed all the tests, it is labelled with a PASS sticker, indicating the date of the test and when the next test is due. If it fails, a FAIL sticker is issued, and the appliance should not be used until it is repaired and retested.
It can vary depending on the type of electrical equipment in your place of work, and how often you use it. According to the 5th Edition of the In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment Code of Practice, these are the general guidelines.
High-risk environments – In environments where equipment is exposed to harsh conditions, such as construction or industrial settings, testing should be conducted more regularly – every three to 12 months.
Moderate risk environments – Offices, shops and hotels, where equipment is less likely to be damaged, typically require testing annually or biannually.
Low-risk environments – In a school environment for instance, where equipment use is less intensive, testing can be less frequent – every two to four years.
Again, this will be different for different types of electrical equipment. When your PAT testing is carried out, a tester will apply a label to the appliance specifying when the test was completed. Testers will usually suggest a retesting date based on the type of equipment it is and where it’s located – and this is generally 12 months.
In some cases, a PAT tester will be able to rectify any faults there and then. For instance, if a piece of equipment is fitted with the incorrect fuse, it will fail PAT testing. But an engineer can fit it with the correct fuse and retest it immediately.
However, for some instances, it will be necessary to either replace the equipment completely, or arrange for someone to fix any faults it has. For equipment that is relatively inexpensive and easily replaceable, such as the office kettle, a replacement is usually the best solution. But for higher-end and more specialised equipment, repairing faults can be the less costly option.
A PAT tester will often be able to recommend options and help you take the best course of action.
Whether you want to avoid fines and penalties, maintain compliance (and the peace of mind that comes with it), or just provide a safe working environment for your staff or visitors, Volta Compliance is on hand to help.
Our certified electricians can complete PAT testing for all your eligible portable appliances, including a thorough visual inspection and rigorous electrical test. Sound good? Give us a call on 0113 436 0402 or email [email protected] for a bespoke, no obligation quote.
