PAT Testing
What is it?
PAT Testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is a crucial part of any company’s health and safety policy. Health and safety regulations mandate that electrical appliances are safe and maintained to prevent harm to employees.
Manufacturers typically recommend regular testing intervals, which vary depending on the type of appliance and its usage environment. We provide guidance on the best practices to ensure compliance without unnecessary over-testing.
Why do we need it?
Under British law (specifically the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989), all electrical systems and appliances must be maintained to prevent danger, as far as is reasonably practicable.
Reasons to carry out PAT Testing include:
Ensuring the safety of electrical appliances in the workplace.
Preventing electrical accidents and potential injuries.
Meeting legal obligations and maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations.
When should we do it?
Regular PAT Testing, along with routine user inspections, ensures electrical appliances remain in good working order and helps prevent work-related electrical accidents. Testing intervals depend on appliance type and environment, but generally, testing should be conducted annually.
"Just wanted to drop you a line thanking you for your kind service. Your engineer was in and out in record time and he really wasn't much of a disturbance. Your customer service was excellent as well. Well done to you and your team!"
Office Manager
"Just a quick note to say thanks for this week. As usual minimal disruption and a great service."
Office Manager
"I was hoping to get PAT testing off my desk for at least a day! Damn you for being efficient!"
Service Delivery Manager
"The two engineers that attended on Friday were great. They were professional, friendly and completed the jobs in a timely and high standard."
Office Manager/PA
How do we do it?
The inspection and testing will be conducted in accordance with the IET Code of Practice for in-service inspection and testing of electrical equipment.
The process involves:
Visual Inspection:
Checking for damaged cables, plugs, or equipment.
Identifying overheating, burn marks, or discolouration.
Verifying correct wiring and fuse ratings.
Manual Testing (depending on the appliance class):
Earth continuity testing
Insulation resistance testing
Polarity testing
Earth leakage testing
Our trained engineers will carry out the testing with minimal disruption to your staff’s daily activities. Each appliance tested will be assigned a unique ID and barcoded label.
Upon completion, you will receive an asset register and certification confirming the results of the testing.