Portable appliance testing (PAT) is the term used to describe the
examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are
safe to use. Most electrical safety defects can be found by visual
examination but some types of defect can only be found by testing.
However, it is essential to understand that visual examination is an
essential part of the process because some types of electrical safety
defect can't be detected by testing alone.
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| Portable appliance testing (PAT) |
A relatively brief user check (based upon simple training and perhaps
assisted by the use of a brief checklist) and it a very useful part of
any electrical maintenance regime.
Health and safety
regulations require that electrical appliances are safe to prevent harm
to workers. Many types of equipment require testing at regular
intervals to ensure continual safety; the interval between tests
depending on both the type of appliance and the environment it is used
in. For example, a power tool used on a construction site should be examined more frequently than a lamp in a hotel bedroom.
Evidence of testing is clearly visible to workers in the form of
"passed", "tested for electrical safety" and "do not use after..."
labels affixed to various parts of the electrical equipment used.
The Law (the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
) requires that all electrical systems (including electrical
appliances) are maintained (so far as is reasonably practicable) to
prevent danger. A competent person must inspect the installation
regularly in any public building or a place that people work but private
houses do not need this test. It does not say how
this should be done or how often. Employers should take a risk-based
approach, considering the type of equipment and what it is being used
for. If it is used regularly and moved a lot e.g. a floor cleaner or a
kettle, testing (along with visual checks) can be an important part of
an effective maintenance regime giving employers confidence that they
are doing what is necessary to help them meet their legal duties. Orbex Solutions provides guidance on how to maintain equipment including the use of PAT.
We strongly recommended that you make sure that equipment is inspected and
tested before each usage, in order to ensure it is safe to
use. The person when hiring the equipment should also take appropriate steps
to ensure it remains safe to use throughout the hire period.
Orbex Solutions Ltd provides a high quality service assured at a competitive price that will meet all your requirements.
Contact us and ensure your business meets legal and insurance cover requirements.
