PAT Test

Portable Appliance Testing is the electrical safety testing of portable electrical equipment.  It consists of a visual inspection and various electrical tests carried out using test equipment.  Appliances that have passed the equipment are deemed to be safe to use until the next test date.  A sticker is attached to the equipment indicating Pass or fail and the next test date.  The intervals between tests is normally 12months but can be between 6 to 24 months dependent on the environment.   We normally put a 12-month annual Re-Test Date.

Integrated appliances and hard-wired appliances where the plug point is not accessible a visual inspection and an earth test (where appropriate) will be performed.

PAT Testing is normally carried out in shops, businesses, council and public sector organisations, rented property, care homes.  Anywhere where there are employees or where people reside in rented or public sector accommodation.  Also Exhibition Centers and Public Halls, both the venue and users bringing in equipment need PAT testing. We also replace Plug tops and fuses.

Although not a legal requirement the Electricity at Work regulations  4(2) requires maintenance and regular testing of equipment.   Similarly the Health and safety at Work etc. Act 1974 puts a duty of care upon both employer and employee to ensure the safety of all persons using the work premises.  Regular records and certification of Portable appliance tests is an integral part of ensuring safety.  PAT Testing is part of a good health and safety regime.  Some councils require PAT testing of furnished properties before letting them to tenants, similarly many insurance companies will give a discount if equipment on the premises is PAT tested