PAT Testing in Norfolk, Suffolk

and Cambridgeshire 

PAT Testing in Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire

PAT testing law requires that all landlords, employers and even self-employed individuals make sure that their portable electrical appliances are safe and are suitable and used for the purposes intended. These appliances should always be maintained properly and remain in good working order.

PAT testing is done to ensure that all electrical equipment that is classified as “portable” is deemed safe for use. The legislation deems that any competent person can perform it by using a PAT instrument or tester. The visual examination of each appliance in addition to the actual PAT test should be performed only by someone who is deemed competent.

Portable Appliance Testing, also known as PAT testing, is the examination or inspection of electrical appliances and equipment that ensures they are safe to use.

PAT testing ensures the appliances and equipment are safe and helps to prevent electrical accidents in the workplace. PAT testing should be done on a routine basis and clear and concise records should be documented.

A PAT test checks electrical items to ensure they are safe to use. It should include both a visual examination and a more in-depth examination. The majority of electrical defects can be detected during the visual examination.

However, some electrical safety defects can only be found when the appliance is tested using specialist PAT testing equipment. 

PAT testing

What does PAT testing involve?

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) advises that PAT testing should include three steps – user checks, a formal visual inspection and the manual PAT test using a portable appliance tester.

User checks

All users of electrical equipment should have some basic training in how to use the equipment safely, as well as what danger signs to be aware of, as part of their induction. Users should feel confident in visually checking the equipment regularly for obvious signs of damage, as well as potential risks, such as cables trapped under desks or water hazards.

Visit the HSE’s website for further advice on user checks

Formal visual inspection

Prior to the manual PAT test, a formal visual inspection of the equipment should be carried out. According to the HSE, this process usually flags up around 90% of problems and it can be carried out by a competent member of staff with the relevant training, or a professional.

It is essential that the equipment is turned off and unplugged before beginning the visual inspection. The checklist should include:

  1. The plug
    -Look for any signs of damage, including cracks, burns or bent pins, and check that the wiring is correct. The live, neutral and earth conductors should all be connected to their relevant terminals tightly.
  2. The cable
    -Check the cable visually and physically for any damage, including fraying, cuts or abrasions. Any exposed wiring is an immediate fail.
  3. The appliance
    -Check for any obvious damage, including cracks, burns, corrosion and casing wear and tear
  4. The mains socket
    -Although this is not part of a PAT test, it should be included in the visual inspection. The mains testing of sockets is done during a fixed wire test.
    -Look for cracks, signs of over-heating and any loose fittings and check the shutter mechanism
  5. RCD (Residual Current Device) checks
    -RCDs are fitted with a test button and will trip if the current flowing through the live conductor is different to that in the neutral
    -The inspection should look for signs of damage, check the operating current and test the ‘test’ button to ensure it’s in working order
  6. Environmental check
    -Check for trip hazards from cables, overloaded extension leads, water risks and fire hazards.

 

View HSE’s guide to Maintaining Portable Electrical Equipment for further details and official guidance on how to conduct user checks, formal visual inspections and PAT tests