PAT testing uk stands for Portable Appliance Testing and is the inspection of electrical appliances ensuring that they are safe to use. PAT testing involves firstly a visual inspection followed by an earth continuity test, lead polarity and insulation resistance checks.
Once each electrical appliance is tested, a sticker is issued which visibly shows if the appliance has passed or failed the testing. A green sticker indicates it has passed and a red sticker if it has failed. If an appliance has failed then the PAT testing engineer will recommend that you have the appliance replaced as soon as possible to not pose any potential danger.
Pat testing is required to be done by a PAT testing engineer that has the required training. This is because they know how to use the equipment to carry out the PAT testing, they know what equipment to use and are able to interpret the results for you once the PAT testing is complete.
With PAT testing not all items should be tested. Electrical appliances are categorised into different classes, where Class 1 appliances need a full PAT test and Class 2 need a PAT insulation test.
Examples of Class 1 electrical appliances:
– Photocopiers
– Desktop computers
– Washing machines
– Vending machines
– Freezers
– Fridges
– Microwaves
– Toasters
– Mobile phone chargers
– Extension leads
– Etc.
Examples of Class 2 electrical appliances:
– Desktop printers
– Lamps
– Televisions
– DVD players
– Hair straighteners
– Etc.
If you have any further questions about PAT Testing, please get in touch with the PAT Testing Association by calling 0207 1188 445 or dropping us an email at cs@pattestingassociation.co.uk