PAT Testing

What is PAT Testing?

Portable Appliance Testing or PAT Testing is the process of checking electrical appliances for safety through a series of visual inspections and electronic tests.

Why do I need to have my appliances tested?

The best way of ensuring that your appliances are safe is to have a PAT test carried out on them. This is a good way for landlords or businesses to ensure that they are meeting their legal obligations to maintain high standards of electrical safety in their rented property.

What does Portable Appliance Testing involve?

To establish the safety and suitability of your electrical appliances, the competent person will carry out a visual inspection of the appliance, its plug and lead. For Class I[1] equipment they will also inject test signals into the cable and appliance to ensure their integrity.

Who should do the work?

By law, any competent person can carry out a PAT test. In this instance, competence is defined as having knowledge about electricity and previous experience in working with electrics – including the system that they're working on.

What will I receive?

Upon completion of the portable appliance inspection and testing you should receive a report that details the following as a minimum:

• An inventory containing each appliance type, name, location and description

• A set of test results for each appliance tested

• A full list of any failed items with an explanation of their failure

• A visible pass or fail label on each appliance detailing the inspection date, next test due and the inspector’s signature.

• If you are not technically aware, then the contractor / competent person who carried out the inspection and testing should be happy to talk through your report with you and advise you of any further action required.