What electrical appliances are included in PAT testing?
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is the process of inspecting electrical appliances and equipment classed as “portable” to ensure their safety during usage. PAT testing legislation was initially implemented to ensure that all businesses complied with the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974). As well as the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989). Plus the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (1998). And the Management of Health and Safety at Work regulations (1998). But this may leave you wondering what electrical appliances are included in PAT testing. So continue reading to find out.
What is classed as a portable appliance?
The Electricity at Work Regulations states that all electrical systems and equipment should be in a safe condition. This includes portable appliances used in the working environment. So PAT testing should be performed on any electrical equipment that can be transported while attached to an electricity supply via a lead and plug. An electrical appliance that is 18 kg or less in bulk and powered between 50 and 415 volts is classed as a portable appliance.
Some examples of portable appliances
Items that are designed to be moved while in operation
- Kettles
- Toasters
- Electric warmers
- Electric fans
- Microwaves
- Vacuum cleaners
Portable appliances operated with the hand
- Drills
- Hair dryers
Fixed appliances that are supported or secured
- Electric radiators
- Electric bathroom towel rails
Information technology equipment
- Computer monitors
- Laptops
- Printers
- Telephones
- Chargers
- Extension cords
Why do you need to PAT test?
It is possible for electrical equipment to be damaged, malfunction, or degrade over time. Several factors can lead to this, and if it is not addressed, it can have significant ramifications. Accidents can occur if you use electrical appliances or equipment that is not safe. So a PAT test evaluates electrical goods to verify they are safe to use. It should entail both a visual inspection and a more in-depth examination. The majority of electrical problems can be found during the visual examination. However, some electrical safety issues can only be identified when the device is checked using professional PAT testing equipment. The in-depth testing should include ground continuity, lead polarity, and insulation resistance checks.
How do you know if an item has been PAT tested?
Electrical equipment testing is a relatively simple process. Each piece of equipment will be assigned a pass or fail rate. So if the equipment passes the test, it will be labelled with a safety sticker that includes the date of testing and a barcode for tracking. Although PAT testing labels and written records of PAT testing are not required by law, our team of domestic electricians in Swansea firmly implements these steps. It assists in ensuring the electrical equipment safety system’s efficacy and adherence to maintenance schedules. So maintaining a thorough equipment maintenance record confirms compliance with all applicable electrical safety regulations.
Contact our local electricians for any PAT testing you need!
The electricians in Swansea perform comprehensive electrical safety tests on plug tops and fixed-wired appliances. We are Safe Electric Registered, and our technicians are City & Guilds qualified. So we can offer quality PAT Testing services you can trust.