PAT Testing vs Fixed Wire Testing
Many business owners confuse PAT testing with fixed wire testing, or assume they are the same thing. They are two completely different types of electrical inspection, and most businesses need both. Here is a clear explanation of each and when you need them.
What is PAT Testing?
PAT testing — Portable Appliance Testing — is the inspection and testing of portable electrical equipment. These are items that plug into a socket and can be moved: kettles, computers, extension leads, power tools, lamps, phone chargers, and so on.
PAT testing involves a visual inspection of the appliance, cable, and plug, followed by electrical tests using a dedicated PAT tester. The tester checks earth continuity, insulation resistance, and other parameters depending on the equipment class.
What is Fixed Wire Testing?
Fixed wire testing — formally called an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) — is an inspection and test of the permanent electrical installation in your building. This covers everything that is wired in: the distribution board (fuse box/consumer unit), the wiring in the walls and ceilings, the sockets, the light fittings, and the earth and bonding arrangements.
An EICR must be carried out by a qualified electrician — typically someone registered with NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA. It involves opening up the distribution board, testing circuits, and checking the condition of the entire installation.
Key Differences
| PAT Testing | Fixed Wire Testing (EICR) | |
|---|---|---|
| What it tests | Portable appliances (plug-in items) | Permanent wiring installation |
| Who does it | Trained PAT tester | Qualified electrician |
| Frequency | Typically annual | Every 5 years (commercial) |
| Duration | Minutes per appliance | Hours to days depending on size |
| Cost | £1-3 per appliance | £150-500+ depending on premises |
| Documentation | PAT register and labels | EICR certificate |
Do You Need Both?
Almost certainly, yes. The fixed wiring and the portable appliances are two separate systems, and both need to be maintained in safe condition. Having an up-to-date EICR does not cover your portable appliances, and having PAT testing does not certify your fixed wiring.
Get Your PAT Testing Sorted
Contact Green Tag PAT for portable appliance testing across Greater Manchester and Northwest England. We can also recommend trusted electricians for EICR inspections if you need both.
Need a PAT Test in Greater Manchester?
Based in Salford, covering all of Greater Manchester. From £59, same-day certificates.