PAT Electrical Testing

Portable Appliance Testing (commonly known as PAT or PAT Inspection or PAT Testing) is a process in the United Kingdom by which electrical appliances are routinely checked for safety. The correct term for the whole process is In-service Inspection & Testing of Electrical Equipment.

When people work with electrical appliances, health and safety regulations state that the appliance must be safe, to prevent harm to the workers. Many types of equipment require testing at regular intervals to ensure continual safety; the interval between tests depending on both the type of appliance and the environment it is used in. Evidence of testing is clearly visible to workers in the form of 'Passed', 'Tested for Electrical Safety' and 'DO NOT USE after' labels affixed to various parts of the electrical equipment they use.

Who should have PAT Testing done?

The Electricity at Work Regulations (1989) requires "All electrical systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, any danger". The Regulations also state "It is the duty of every employer and self employed person to comply with the provision of these Regulations."

British law requires that all electrical systems (including electrical appliances) are maintained to prevent danger. Guidance from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET, published under the IEE brand) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) suggest initial intervals for combined inspection and testing that range from three months (for construction equipment) to one year for inspection and, in many cases, longer periods for testing (certain types of appliance in schools, hotels, offices and shops).

Recommended maximum intervals between testing of electrical installations:

• Domestic installations: 10 years
• Fixed installations: 5 years
• Commercial installations: 5 years
• Industrial, external installations and caravans: 3 years
• Communal areas in blocks: 1 year
• Places of public entertainment: 1 year
• Petrol stations and swimming pools: 1 year

It is also advisable when:

• A property is being prepared to be let
• Prior selling and after buying property
• At change of tenancy

Some tips on electrics:

• Make sure smoke alarms are installed on every floor in your home and are in good working order.
• Look for telltale signs of electrical problems such as dimming of lights, frequent circuit breaker trips or blown fuses, and contact an electrician.
• Use light bulbs that are the proper wattage for the fitting-higher wattage bulbs can degrade the wires in and around the fixture.
• Extension cords used outside should be specifically designed for such a use.
• Insert plugs fully so no prong is showing and never pull plugs out by the lead.
• Never cover extension leads.
• Don't overload cords with too many appliances.
• Make sure cords do not dangle from the counter where they can be pulled.

Regular safety checks prevent accidents. We are NICEIC accredited. We have more than 25 years of experience in the servicing industry.