PAT Testing Information

Legislation

After the Electricity at Work Regulations (EWR) were introduced in 1989, this prompted great demand for portable appliances to be inspected and tested. PAT testing is not specifically required by the regulations and portable appliances are not categorically mentioned. Nevertheless, the regulations mandate that electrical systems should be built, properly serviced and always be operated correctly to avoid injury or damage. Because of this, and the fact that portable appliances are systems, they need to be inspected and tested to make sure the appliance is safe, working properly and not in need of repair.

Please note that although reference is made to PAT testing legislation, this should not be considered legal advice. In case of doubt, the specific legislation mentioned should be consulted and legal advice obtained.

Types of electrical equipment to be tested

This category of electrical equipment testing includes large stationary items such as freezers, washing machines, etc. which makes the term "portable appliance testing" somewhat misleading. Any electrical equipment that is not permanently "hardwired" into the electrical supply must also be tested.

The PAT Testing equipment section has more information about the different types of equipment and appliances that need PAT testing.

Categories of inspection and testing

There are three categories of in-service inspection and testing: User checks, Formal visual inspections and Combined inspections and tests.

Visit the PAT Test section for an overview of what is involved in each of these three categories of PAT testing.

Frequency of testing

The likelihood of maintenance being required and the consequence of lack of maintenance will determine how frequently pat testing needs to be conducted. Even though there are no set standards in place, the factors that influence the need for inspection or repair include:

The environment: appliances in a "lower risk" environment like an office, generally receive much less wear than appliances installed at construction sites for example.
The users: hazardous conditions can be avoided if those using the equipment report damage immediately upon it being noticed. Likewise, there will be more frequent testing and inspections if the equipment is likely to receive unreported abuse.

PAT testing procedure

A maintenance regime comprising user checks, formal visual inspection and, where appropriate, testing will help prevent accidents.

Test and repair equipment: Test equipment will be needed that will perform, as a minimum, an earth continuity test and an insulation resistance test to permit testing. Following inspection and testing, certain repairs may be identified.

PAT testing records: There is no requirement in the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 to keep records but the HSE Memorandum of Guidance on these regulations advises that records of maintenance including tests should be kept throughout the working life of equipment. Without such records duty holders cannot be certain that the inspection and testing have actually been carried out.

Labelling: All equipment that requires routine inspection and/or testing should be clearly identifiable. This is usually achieved by applying PAT testing labels to the equipment. An indication of the current safety status of the equipment should also be included. The date on which re-testing is due or the last test date and re-test period should also be stated.

Damaged or faulty equipment: If equipment is found to be damaged or faulty on inspection or test, it must be removed from service and then an assessment should be made by a responsible person as to the suitability of the equipment for the use in that particular location.

PAT testing training

The requirement that workers must be competent to perform their duties is spelled out in Regulation 16 of the Electricity at Work Regulations. The person or persons performing the inspection and testing of electrical equipment and appliances should be trained to do so in order to make sure of their safety and the safety of others. It is extremely important that someone should be trained in every area, and capable of performing the work and understanding the results.

Test operatives should attend a PAT testing course and pass a competency exam.