PAT testing stands for Portable Appliance Testing. It is the process of checking electrical appliances to ensure they are safe for use. The test involves a visual inspection and a series of electronic tests using calibrated equipment.
What Does PAT Stand For?
PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. Despite the name, it covers more than just small portable items. Any electrical appliance with a plug that can be disconnected from the mains supply is considered a portable appliance for testing purposes.
What Does the Test Involve?
A PAT test has two parts:
- Visual inspection: checking for damage to the cable, plug, and casing. This catches around 90% of faults.
- Electronic testing: using calibrated test equipment to measure earth continuity, insulation resistance, and other parameters depending on appliance class.
Who Needs PAT Testing?
Any employer, landlord, or organisation that provides electrical appliances for use by employees, tenants, or the public should have those appliances PAT tested. This includes offices, shops, pubs, restaurants, schools, care homes, churches, rental properties, and any other workplace.
How Often Should You PAT Test?
Testing frequency depends on the type of equipment and the environment. The IET Code of Practice provides detailed guidance, but general recommendations are:
- Offices: every 12–24 months
- Retail: every 12 months
- Industrial/construction: every 3–6 months
- Rental properties: between each tenancy
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