Portable Appliance Testing, known as PAT testing, is the examination or inspection of electrical appliances and equipment to ensures they are safe to use, this helps to prevent electrical accidents in the workplace.
Electrical equipment can become damaged, develop faults, or the parts may deteriorate. This can happen for a number of reasons. Using electrical appliances or equipment that is not completely safe can result in serious injuries or even death.
A PAT test checks electrical items to ensure they are safe to use. it includes both a visual examination and a more in-depth examination. The majority of electrical defects can be detected during the visual The in-depth testing should include earth continuity, lead polarity, and insulation resistance checks.
What requires a PAT Test:
Portable appliances that require PAT testing include any equipment that can connect to a fixed installation or generator. This includes appliances that connect using a cable, socket, or plug. Any electrical appliances or equipment that is portable qualifies for PAT testing.
If your business uses any appliances that you would not consider portable but are plugged into a power source, these also will need PAT testing. This may include a dishwasher, industrial machinery, or a built-in refrigerator.
There are several categories of electrical equipment that should undergo PAT testing:
- Fixed appliances – These are electrical items that are fixed in a permanent location or fastened to a support.
- Stationary appliances – Appliances that are stationary and are not moved, such as white goods in a kitchen.
- IT equipment – This is an item that is used for any IT purpose. Examples include computers, laptops, printers, and photocopiers.
- Moveable or portable appliances – Equipment that usually stays in one place but can be moved with relative ease. This type of electrical item usually weighs less than 18kg.
- Cables, wires, and chargers – Any cable, wire, lead, or charger that connects to an electronic item or plugs into a wall.
- Other handheld devices – Electric items that are held in the hand, such as electric tools and hairdryers.
All workplaces are required to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition. All workplaces must legally ensure the health and safety of employees and the wider public.
Even if you are a small business that only uses basic electrical equipment such as lamps, laptops, and a kettle, you should still ensure the safety and maintenance of these items.
Work environments that shold be conducting PAT tests include:
- Industrial workplaces.
- Construction.
- Commercial environments.
- Educational establishments.
- Hospitality.
- Medical facilities or institutions.
- Rental properties, both domestic and workplace rentals.
- Any environment that is accessible to the public.
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