5 PAT testing misconceptions busted

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is a test performed on electrical equipment to determine if they are working correctly. The test is considered an effective way to tell if any electrical equipment is safe to use.

The equipment, alongside the person carrying out the PAT test, must be able to identify basic electrical modes, mechanical damage to an appliance and work environment-related issues.

How frequently an electrical PAT test should be performed, is determined by the type of electrical equipment and or appliance, and where it is used.

Whilst PAT testing is important and necessary to ensure appliances work efficiently and are safe, there are various misconceptions surrounding it.

Here, we'll bust five of the most common PAT testing misconceptions that will save you time, energy and money.

You can PAT test with a smartphone

Smartphones have become so "smart", they can be used for a variety of purposes whilst using apps.

Nevertheless, this is a misconception that baffles technicians greatly, even when clients claim that a supplier used a smartphone.

Correct PAT testing is done using a PAT tester, after visual testing. Currently, there's no approved or acclaimed way of performing PAT testing with a smartphone, so do not be tricked.

You can check out the most reliable way of PAT testing at TN Robinson.

Legal obligation

You might have been advised that the law requires a label to be placed on every inspected and tested piece of equipment. However, there are no legal requirements to suggest you should label or even keep a record of appliances that have been tested.

Understandably PAT testing is important for the maintenance and renewal process of your appliances and the users safety.

British law (the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989) stipulates that every electrical system and appliance is maintained, which is obviously practical to prevent danger. Private houses however, are not guided by the legislation above. Nevertheless, occupiers' liability demands that landlords shouldn't expose occupants or visitors to premises with unnecessary risks.

Hiring a professional third party helps to eliminate any confusion people have about the law and PAT testing.

Our electrical specialists at TN Robinson can help explain how to comply with the law and the right PAT testing requirements.

You can do it yourself with a simple "train the tester" course

Firstly, to carry out PAT testing effectively, a competent technician is required.

It is a must to have a professional who specializes in the PAT testing area, to do it for you. This person should be equipped with the correct skills, experience and attitude for the job.

Secondly, you'll need an accredited company to train you on PAT testing. In the UK, approved PAT testing specialists hold a qualification from Portal Appliance Testing (PAT) City & Guilds (2377-22) and (2377-32). This is the Certification organization you should train with if you feel you can PAT test like a professional.

PAT testing frequency

We mentioned earlier the frequency of testing. You might have heard that a PAT test is needed every other year for any electrical equipment or appliance. This is wrong since when to carry out PAT testing, depends on the equipment.

Heavy-duty equipment like a DJ mixer might need an annual PAT test, but for appliances like a toaster or an office phone, every 2 years is enough, so do not be misled.

Brand new equipment does not need a PAT test for the first 2 years unless a visual check reveals something alarming.

Outside equipment is not your responsibility

For those with businesses where employees bring in their own electrical appliances or equipment; such as a fan or electric kettle, you might have heard or thought it's not your duty to check them for safety, however this is incorrect too.

There are many misconceptions about PAT testing of electrical equipment. It is important you learn what you should or shouldn't do when it comes to PAT testing.

The experts at https://www.tnr.co.uk can guide you on the procedure to carry out PAT testing effectively, to help ensure when an electrical specialist visits you, you'll be able to know what it entails.

We believe choosing a reliable professional for PAT testing, will allow you to have complete confidence in your electrical appliances and equipment. You'll also save energy, time and money which would have otherwise been used for PAT testing when not required.