What is PAT Testing?

A pretty basic and crucial question as far as our business is concerned!

Everyone needs to start with the basics. So for any new readers or people finding this blog from the Search Engines, here’s a quick introduction to PAT Testing and what it means.  There is lots more information regarding PAT testing on our website including a free online course to walk you through the basics of testing appliances yourself. You also have the option to join us on one of our one-day courses to have some hands-on training.

So let’s get started…

What does PAT testing mean?

The initials stand for Portable Appliance Testing – and are used to refer to testing electrical safety in portable appliances throughout the UK, Ireland, New Zealand and Australia.  You need to check appliances are safe in particular within working environments, rental properties and at events. You can also test personal electrical appliances at home to ensure you keep you and your family safe.

What checks do I complete?

You will need to complete the standard checks. These comprise of insulation resistance tests, earth continuity checks, a wiring check and sometimes a polarity test. A trained PAT Tester will be familiar with a basic visual inspection of appliances as well, checking for frayed cables or damaged plugs.  However, you do not need training to PAT test you just need to feel confident and capable.

You can carry out PAT Testing these days using pass/fail PAT Tester machines. The Electricity At Work Regulations specifies that reasonable efforts must be taken by employers to ensure that electrical equipment is safe.  You will need to be aware that not checking your electrical appliances can impact insurance.  If your appliances are not deemed to have been safe before an accident occurred you could be found liable.

In Conclusion

PAT Testing is the process of ensuring an electrical device is safe when new as well as over time. We offer PB500 machines for both UK and European use, plus calibrations and training are available on our website. You can PAT test yourself if you feel competent to do so. We recommend our PAT testing DVD and free course to build your knowledge.