Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)


The below is a shortend version of Tiny Island Software's 'Introduction to Portable Appliance Testing' which can be downloaded as a pdf file here.

The Portable Appliance Testing system has been developed to address several HSE requirements and covers all in-service electrical appliances.

Contrary to common practice amongst untrained PAT testers, it is not the case that all appliances should be tested every 12 months, a testing schedule is arrived at for each item based on risk factors relating to the type of appliance and the environment in which it is used.
Formal visual inspection and testing
At intervals dictated by the schedule described above each item must be formally inspected.

Many untrained PAT testers are not aware of the need for a visual inspection
Only after an item passes the visual inspection can the electrical testing take place.

Record Keeping
Untrained PAT testers seldom keep or provide employers with records, TIS provide the following:
  • A copy of this document
  • A copy of TIS' PAT training course certificate
  • A copy of the calibration certificate for TIS' PAT tester
  • Equipment test record (1 sheet per item)
  • An A4 copy of the 'Before you switch on' poster to aid staff training
Employee Awarness
Often overlooked is the employer's responsibility to ensure employees can recognise when equipment could be unsafe to use.   TIS can supply a durable A3 poster to be displayed in a communal area along with an A4 printout for circulation and training.
How much will it cost?
The basic rate to carry out a formal visual inspection and test is £2.50* per appliance / cable including record keeping.  A call out charge may be applicable outside of Mablethorpe depending on the number of appliances to be tested.

Additional costs will be incurred if new plugs, fuses or IEC leads are required in order for an appliance to be passed.

'Before Switching On' A3 durable, wipe-clean posters are available at £7.50* each.

* Costs are correct at the time of writing but may change at any time.  TIS is not VAT registered so there is no VAT component to this cost. TIS is pleased to offer a 20% discount to registered charity's.