Any appliance that uses a flexible cable or plug and socket qualifies as a portable appliance. In other words, if you have an appliance that has a plug that is intended to be connected to a wall socket or generator, it qualifies as needing to be PAT tested.
What type of appliances need PAT testing?
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. Why Do PAT Testing?
What is a portable appliance testing?
PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. It is a routine inspection conducted on electrical appliances and equipment to make sure they can be used safely in the workplace and any other public environment. PAT usually involves visual and electrical inspections.
What is PAT testing and how does it work?
When PAT testing, different types of test are performed depending on the particular class an appliance falls under. Basically, during manufacture, a portable appliance is given a class rating depending on how the user is protected from electrical shock.
Do class 1 and Class 2 appliances need to be tested?
Although there is no specific legal obligation, it is recommended all portable appliances are tested annually, regardless of whether they are Class 1 or Class 2 to be sure they are working safely, although it may depend on the items usage and environment. What is the difference between Class 1 and Class 2 appliances?
What is considered portable electrical equipment?
Related to portable electrical equipment. Electrical equipment means underground equipment that contains dielectric fluid that is necessary for the operation of equipment such as transformers and buried electrical cable. Portable x-ray equipment means x-ray equipment designed to be hand-carried.
What does a portable appliance tester test?
Testing involves a visual inspection of the equipment and any flexible cables for good condition, and also where required, verification of earthing (grounding) continuity, and a test of the soundness of insulation between the current carrying parts, and any exposed metal that may be touched.
Does a TV need to be PAT tested?
Any appliance that uses a flexible cable or plug and socket qualifies as a portable appliance. In other words, if you have an appliance that has a plug that is intended to be connected to a wall socket, it qualifies as needing to be PAT tested.
Do USB devices need PAT testing?
In summary - as long as a piece of electrical equipment is plugged into a power source and runs off mains electricity, it needs PAT testing. It doesn't matter if it is a portable appliance or not.
How do I know if my appliance is Class 1 or Class 2?
The required PAT tests for Class I appliances are the Earth Continuity and Insulation Resistance tests which will check the basic insulation and earth connection. A Class II appliance usually has a plastic cover. The only way to accurately identify it is to look for the Class II appliance symbol.
Which accessories are used to operate a portable appliance?
Outlet Accessories: The accessories which are used to take the supply for portable appliances like table fans, T.V., electric iron etc. Two pin socket, three pin socket, two pin plug, three pin plug etc.
Does a new kettle need PAT testing?
Do I need to test new equipment? New equipment should be supplied in a safe condition and not require a formal portable appliance inspection or test. However, a simple visual check is recommended to verify the item is not damaged.
What is exempt from PAT testing?
Equipment that should be tested include items such as electric drills, PCs, monitors, printers, kettles and larger pieces of equipment such as photocopiers and vending machines. Any cordless power tool would not need to be PAT tested.
What class is a Hoover for PAT testing?
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. This type of electrical equipment has only basic insulation and relies on an earth for protection.
Do you need to PAT test a phone charger?
PAT Testing a phone charger makes perfect sense as with any other portable electrical appliance, they can become damaged and faulty; which can result in damage, injury or worse! So first things first; carry out a full visual inspection.
Can you PAT test a mobile phone?
However, battery powered equipment such as laptops, mobile phones, even battery powered tools; do not fall under the remit of portable appliance testing, as they do not have and are not designed to operate whilst connected to the mains power via a plug and socket scenario.
Is a laptop a portable appliance?
Portable appliances that are held in the hand during operation such as drills, hair-dryer. Fixed appliances which are supported or secured such as wall heaters. IT equipment such as PC monitors, laptops, printers, telephones, mobile phone chargers Extension leads.
What is Pat testing equipment?
PAT testing equipment, also known as portable appliance testing equipment, is used to inspect electrical appliances to check whether they adhere to safety standards. This includes a multitude of tests to the devices as well as a check on the quality of any cabling.
How do you PAT test an integrated appliances?
2:215:05How to PAT test a fixed appliance - Seaward - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI'm gonna apply my crocodile clip onto the exposed metal part the appliance. And obviously the otherMoreI'm gonna apply my crocodile clip onto the exposed metal part the appliance. And obviously the other test probe onto the earth part of the fuse connection unit.
What does a EICR consist of?
The test will then involve elements of visual inspections to identify any obvious faults with broken equipment or incorrect wiring, dead testing for continuity, insulation resistance and polarity, and live testing to check the system can react effectively in the event of a fault or electric shock injury.
Why is PAT testing important?
PAT ensures that these portable appliances are safe for the business to use. It ensures that there's little chance of accidental injury due to faulty electronics, reducing the risk to the user and other business personnel.
What is a PAT Test?
Defined as Portable Appliance Testing (PAT), it is a routine inspection or examination of various types of electrical equipment and appliances to d...
Who is Responsible For a PAT Test?
Under the Electricity at Work Act 1989, the responsibility of ensuring that equipment was safe - or, at least, scheduling tests with a competent ex...
Is PAT Testing a Legal Obligation?
There is currently no direct law that stipulates or recommends a business owner conducts PAT testing; however, The Health and Safety at Work Act 19...
What is a PAT appliance?
This type of appliance basically refers to all types of business equipment such as franking machines, monitors, computers, printers and photocopiers and PC’s. They’re all eligible for PAT testing, and you should make sure they aren’t glossed over when making your list of what needs PAT testing.
When applying labels to the appliances after PAT testing, should you apply it to the transformer?
When applying labels to the appliances after PAT testing you should either apply it to the transformer or in the case of an appliance not fed from a transformer apply the label to the appliance itself.
How much does a portable item weigh?
It’s easy to be confused about how portable and movable equipment differ from each other, as each is defined as being an easily movable item that’s less than 18kg in weight.
How much does a toaster weigh?
Take, for example, a toaster. Usually sits in the kitchen, but the fact that it weighs under 18kg and can be moved makes it a portable appliance, as it’s quite easy to see how it could be moved by people making toast who either want a different toaster angle or just knock it accidentally.
What is stationary equipment?
Stationary equipment is basically things such as fridges, washing machines and other appliances that stay in a fixed position for most of their life cycle.
What is a Class 1 printer?
Commercial / large office printers are always Class 1. The smaller home type of printer is generally Class 2 and can be seen by the figure of 8 lead connected into the rear of the printer. Monitors again can be either fed from a transformer supply or can have an IEC lead directly into the back of the monitor.
What are the different categories of appliances?
These appliances come in different classifications such as Portable, Stationary, Moveable, Hand Held, IT and Fixed.
What is portable appliance testing?
Portable appliance testing (commonly known as “PAT”, “PAT Inspection” or (redundantly) as “PAT Testing) is the term used to describe the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. The formal term for the process is “in-service inspection & testing of electrical equipment”.
What Needs to be PAT Tested?
Any appliance that uses a flexible cable or plug and socket qualifies as a portable appliance. In other words, if you have an appliance that has a plug that is intended to be connected to a wall socket or generator, it qualifies as needing to be PAT tested.
How PAT Testing is Done?
Visual examination is vital and always precedes electrical testing. It often reveals major defects that would not be revealed by testing alone.
Why do portable appliances need to be tested?
At periodic intervals, the portable appliances are tested to measure that the degree of protection to ensure that it is adequate. At these intervals, a formal visual inspection is carried out and then followed by PAT testing. Note the inside of the plug should be checked unless it is moulded or there is an unbroken seal covering the screws (bad internal wiring or an unsuitable fuse would cause the item to be classed as dangerous).
How to do a pat?
PAT can be done by hiring an external company, like Carelabs, to test all the electrical products in a business or it can be done in-house by a competent person. In a low-risk environment most dangerous defects can be found simply by checking the appliances for obvious signs of damage such as frayed cables.
How to ensure electrical safety?
The best way to ensure electrical safety is by routine visual examination, electrical testing and documentation. The NFPA standard states that “Electricity is widely recognized as a serious workplace hazard, exposing employees to electric shock, burns, fires, and explosions.
Why do employers need to inspect electrical equipment?
The law simply requires employers to ensure electrical equipment is maintained in order to prevent danger – it doesn’t state what needs to be done or how often. The frequency of inspection and testing depends upon the type of equipment and the environment it is used in.
What is a portable appliance class?
Basically, during manufacture, a portable appliance is given a class rating depending on how the user is protected from electrical shock. Any portable appliances without a class rating should be treated as a Class 1 appliance. If an appliance uses mains voltage, it has to provide two levels of protection to the user.
What does it mean when an appliance is class II?
As a rule of thumb, check to see if the appliance has a rating plate. If it doesn’t, it instantly fails. If it does have one, and has a double box mark, it’s a class II appliance. If it doesn’t have the square within a square symbol treat it as a Class 1 appliance.
What is Class 0 appliance?
Class 0 appliances depend only on basic insulation without a provision for earth. If it fails, it is entirely dependant on the environment around it to remain safe.
Why are appliances double insulated?
These appliances are known as double insulated due to the presence of at least two layers of insulation. The earth connection present in Class I appliances is not required for safety.
How many levels of protection do you need for a mains voltage?
If an appliance uses mains voltage, it has to provide two levels of protection to the user. Many have more, but 2 is the minimum. By having more levels of protection, this ensures the appliance remains safe even if the first level fails.
What class are electrical appliances?
Electrical appliances are currently categorised into either Class I, Class II, III, 0 or 01. You can read more on each class below.
How many levels of protection are there for Class I items?
For Class I items, you just need to remember they offer two levels of protection. Remember:
What is portable appliance testing?
However portable appliance testing actually refers to the process that is more formally described by the IET as ‘In-service inspection and testing of electrical equipment’.
What is fixed equipment?
Fixed - This is equipment that is securely fastened in place, for example a storage heater fixed to the wall. Other equipment types can also be classed as fixed when they are permanently connected to the supply via a fuse spur. For example a kettle in a hotel room connected via a fuse spur, rather than a 13A plug.
What is a moveable item?
Moveable - Moveable equipment is less than 18kg and not fixed, or has wheels or castors to allow easy movement from one place to another. The distinction between portable and moveable equipment types is not always clear. For example a toaster is portable, but a microwave that is not often, or easily moved, would be classed as moveable. Moveable equipment is sometimes also referred to as transportable.
What is stationary equipment?
Stationary - Equipment such as fridges, washing machines, vending machines etc., that are more than 18kg and not easily moved are classed as stationary. Because stationary appliances are rarely moved they are less likely to suffer damage so the frequency of testing required would normally be less than a hand held appliance for example.
What is the IET?
The IET categorise electrical equipment into specific types. The distinctions between the types of electrical equipment are mainly used to determine inspection and test frequencies, but they also affect some of the tests and test limits.
Is a hair dryer considered a hand held appliance?
For example a hair dryer. A kettle, even though it has a handle and designed to be picked up, is not classed as hand held because it is not designed to be held in the hand whilst it is heating the water. Hand held appliances are considered high risk.
Can a 13A plug be used for a fuse spur?
Most equipment will be connected via a standard 13A plug, but this is not always the case. For example, some equipment may be permanently fixed via a fuse spur, or use an industrial plug and socket arrangement. The IET categorise electrical equipment into specific types.
What is the purpose of a PAT test?
The principal purpose of PAT testing is to ensure that electrical appliances are safe to use, thus minimizing if not entirely preventing accidents and injuries in the workplace. Exposed wirings and loose connections can cause severe harm, and in rare cases, lead to death. Unchecked electrical issues are also a fire risk, which endangers not only the employees but also the entire business.
What are the two items that need a PAT inspection?
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.
What is a PAT inspection?
PAT usually involves visual and electrical inspections. The visual test searches for visible signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, discolorations, scorch marks, and wear. Electrical inspection utilizes specialized PAT devices to detect some types of defects. The procedure includes earth resistance, earth continuity, and insulation resistance tests, as well as polarity and safety-switch checks.
What does PAT stand for?
PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. It is a routine inspection conducted on electrical appliances and equipment to make sure they can be used safely in the workplace and any other public environment.
Why do insurance companies require a pat inspection?
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.
What are high risk areas for electrical equipment?
Examples of high-risk environments are gyms, arcades, and other high traffic areas where the public can freely use the available electrical equipment. Construction sites, with their frequently chaotic pace and rampant use of hand-held tools, are very high risk.
How to become a certified pat tester?
All you need to do is complete a course online or one that’s facilitated by a qualified instructor, then pass a certification exam.
What is a portable appliance?
For the purpose of legislation, portable appliances include all equipment that is not part of a fixed installation but is meant to be connected to a fixed installation or generator.
What is the most commonly tested item?
Electrical cable extensions are the most commonly tested items as they are among the most common sources of safety hazards. All of your 110 volt equipment in addition to all 3 phase equipment should also be tested.
Do cordless power tools need to be PAT tested?
So a cordless power tool would not need to be PAT tested but their battery chargers that plug into the wall for power do need to be tested.
Is a built in dishwasher a portable appliance?
For instance, a heated towel rail or built-in dishwasher may seem like a fixed appliance but for testing purposes, they still qualify as portable because they plug into a power source. All IT equipment should be tested, including power cords to this equipment although they are required to be tested separately from the equipment ...
What is the phone number for PAT testing?
To discuss your PAT testing requirements, please call us 02380 236200 or request a quotation.
What is portable appliance?
As a guide, a portable appliance can be classified as any piece of electrical equipment which is mains powered. This encompasses everything from a PC to a photocopier, power tools to plant machinery.
What is the difference between Class 1 and Class 2 appliances?
There are a number of different classifications of electrical appliance. With new safety regulations, some are obsolete and some refer to extra low voltage power sources.
What is class 1 and class 2?
Class 1 and Class 2 appliances are all powered by mains voltages. Both classes are required to provide at least two levels of protection to the end user. You could see this as a back-up; if one protection layer fails then the second layer back-up is still in place. This makes electrical equipment safe to use. PAT testing checks that both levels of protection are working effectively.
What is class 2 insulation?
In Class 2 appliances, the user is protected by at least two layers of insulation. For this reason, Class 2 appliances are also known as Double Insulated. They do not require an earth connection. When PAT Testing Class 2 appliances, just the Insulation Resistance test is carried out. So in summary:
How often should portable appliances be tested?
Although there is no specific legal obligation, it is recommended all portable appliances are tested annually, regardless of whether they are Class 1 or Class 2 to be sure they are working safely, although it may depend on the items usage and environment.
What class is a computer?
Typically computers and photocopiers are Class 2 , most plastic power tools would also be Class 2.
Stationary Equipment
Information Technology (IT) Equipment
- IT Equipment is considered slightly higher risk than stationary appliances however IT equipment is still relatively low risk because even though they can be moved, the vast majority of the time they actually aren’t. This type of appliance basically refers to all types of business equipment such as franking machines, monitors, computers, printers and photocopiers and PC’s. They’re all eligi…
Movable (Transportable) Equipment
- Movable equipment refers to anything that usually sits in one place, but can be moved around quite easily. Many examples of movable equipment have wheels, but appliances like electrical fans and televisions also come under this bracket. Movable equipment must be less than 18kg, and this type of appliances has a higher risk factor because they can be frequently moved aroun…
Portable Appliances
- Yes, portable equipment actually comes under portable appliance testing as well! NAPIT (the National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers) say that a portable appliance is ‘any electrical item which can or is intended to be moved whilst connected to an energy supply’. It’s easy to be confused about how portable and movable equipment d...
Hand-Held Appliances
- These items are the most important for PAT testing, as they have an incredibly high risk factor. This is because hand-held items are much more likely to be damaged because of their direct interaction with humans who use them on a regular basis, meaning the likelihood of accidents is much higher. For example, hand-held items such as power drills, angle grinders or even hair drye…
Extension Leads, Cables, Chargers and Rcds
- Extension Cables, IEC Leads and Cable reels are generally prone to damage from trapped doors and being dragged along floors. Long cables are also tripping hazards which should always be taken into account when running temporary supplies. One of the biggest causes of fires is caused by using extension reels with high powered appliances whilst left coiled up. This causes the cor…
Fixed Equipment – Does It Need Testing?
- Fixed equipment refers to anything that is fastened to a support, or secured permanently in a fixed location. Such items include hand dryers, electric tower rails, cookers and central heating boilers. Many people believe that items such as this are exempt from PAT Testing. However you have the same risk of electrical shock from a piece of fixed equipment as you have a moveable or hand h…