Pat Testing Daily Logbook: Portable Appliance Testing Forms/Sheets | Electrical Appliance Safety Certificate - Large A4 Size | Record Over 3000 Tests (UK)

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When done correctly by a qualified and experienced professional, PAT testing does not cause any damage to electrical equipment. There are no rules around how often your equipment needs a PAT test. It is entirely down to the ‘duty holder’ (the person tasked with responsibility for electrical equipment) to assess the risk level and decide on the frequency of inspections. This is usually determined by the type of equipment, how often it is being used and whether the working environment is considered high risk or low risk. Insulation testing involves connecting the tested appliance with the PAT. Typically, a test voltage of 500V DC is then applied to the mains plug terminals. This will ideally result in a high resistance reading being displayed on the PAT screen. However, insufficient insulation between the live parts and earth will result in a current flowing from the insulation to the PAT via the protective earth conductor. The low level of insulation will also be highlighted in the PAT reading. The legislation did not mention who should conduct the PAT test or what qualifications the person has, only that he or she be competent. The Institution of Electrical Engineers defines a competent person as having adequate knowledge of electricity and sufficient electrical work experience. Additionally, he or she should know how to perform a visual inspection, understand the precautions to take, and recognize whether it is safe for the test to continue. Is the item moved? Damage is associated with movement… the more it is moved, the higher the risk value

Teams who leverage the benefits of digital electrical certificates software produce crisp and professional PAT testing certificates, every single time. Filling out PAT testing certificates by hand can be a time-consuming and costly task. It’s the last thing your engineers want to worry about when wrapping up the job. For most portable electrical equipment in a low-risk workplace, a portable appliance test is not needed. One of the most common questions we are asked is “how often do I need to do the PAT Testing?”. Without sounding flippant, the simple answer is it is up to you. PAT Testing should be carried out with a ‘risk based approach’. What is meant by that is you know your appliances, staff, work environment and methods better than anyone. It is therefore up to you to decide how much risk there will be from your appliances. You should carry out a Risk Assessment which will help you determine how often the PAT Testing needs to take place in the different areas of your company. Class one items need a full PAT inspection because they have low insulation and rely on earth for protection. The group typically includes photocopiers, industrial machinery, freezers, toasters, irons, laptop cables, vending machines, desktop computers, phone chargers, and microwaves. Class two appliances, such as lamps, televisions, and lawnmowers, are safer because they are double insulated and need an insulation test. Low voltage appliances such as laptops, torches, and cameras fall under class three and are considered the safest.

Another problem is the issue of making copies. As you know, most of the time, your engineers will need to produce multiple PAT testing certificates per job. PAT testing is the most efficient way of ensuring that a business is adhering to legislation. Indeed, it is the most favoured electrical testing system in the UK. If legislation regarding electrical safety is not adhered to, businesses in the UK can face an unlimited fine or even imprisonment. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 also place a legal responsibility on employers (or ‘duty holders’) to ensure electrical equipment does not pose any risk to users.

This guide outlines the legal requirements and guidance relating to PAT testing and electrical safety including: Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HSW 1974), Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, Housing Act 2004 (England and Wales), Housing (Scotland) Act 2006. Who has responsibility?Learn how to determine whether an item is Class I or Class II construction so the correct test is performed. The Inspection Process Lastly, many insurance firms require businesses to complete regular PAT inspections. Conducting PAT to maintain high levels of safety in the workplace will make the insurance company view the business favourably. However, in high risk environments, or when the equipment requires an inspection and manual testing, it is always advised to use an experienced and qualified professional with expertise in the field. They should be well-trained and have the correct equipment for the job.