What is a PAT test?A PAT test is a routine inspection of some types of electrical appliance to check they are safe to use. Its purpose is to prevent electrical accidents in the workplace.A full PAT test should include both a visual inspection and a more in-depth check using specialist PAT testing equipment. This test includes earth continuity, lead polarity, and insulation resistance checks.At the end of a PAT test, every appliance should be marked ‘passed’ or ‘failed’. Ideally there should be a record of the results.
What does ‘PAT’ stand for? PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. There is no definition of what a ‘Portable Appliance’ is in the current legislation, however the standard interpretation is “any appliance that has a plug attached to it and plugs into a wall outlet”. There are actually 7 categories of appliance which should be considered for PAT testing or, at least, visual inspections which are as followed Fixed appliances, Stationary appliances, IT appliances, Moveable appliances, Portable appliances, Cables and chargers and Hand Held appliances.
Is PAT testing a legal obligation? PAT testing is not, in itself, a legal obligation. However, current UK legislation states that businesses must maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition. They also have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of employees and the public, Because PAT testing is one of the most effective ways to do this, particularly for high risk or large, complex environments, it has become a standard way of meeting this legal obligation.
What are the penalties if I don’t meet my legal obligations?Depending on the severity of the situation, the penalty for not meeting legal obligations on electrical appliance safety can be as high as 2 years’ imprisonment, as well as an unlimited financial penalty. Who is responsible for electrical appliance safety?The Employer is responsible for electrical appliance safety.
What are ‘electrical classes’ in PAT testing? Electrical appliances are mainly categorised as Class 1, 2 or 3, with Class 1 being the most dangerous and Class 3 the least dangerous. The class of an appliance helps determine whether it needs to be PAT tested and to what degree. Class 1 appliances need a full PAT test, Class 2 appliances need a PAT insulation test, and Class 3 appliances don’t need to be PAT tested at all. Class 1 appliances This type of electrical equipment has only basic insulation and relies on an earth for protection. Class 2 appliances This type of electrical equipment has extra insulation and so doesn’t rely on an earth for protection, which makes it safer. Class 3 appliances Class 3 appliances are low voltage items and are the safest class of electrical appliance. Their charging leads may need to be PAT tested. How often does PAT testing need to be carried out? See photos below for the categories.