PAT - Portable appliance testing

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. 

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.  

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