Checking the safety of various electrical appliances, through close visual inspection and electrical tests, portable appliance testing or PAT testing is a great way to abide by the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, especially in an industrial or commercial setting. Here at Walker Electrical Contractors Ltd we provide solutions to all manner of electrical problems, both industrial and commercial, and we are experts at PAT testing. This guide will tell you all you need to know about what PAT testing is, why we use it and what documentation you will be provided with.
What is a PAT test?
Portable appliance testing refers to the work carried out by qualified and time served electricians, who are trained to spot faults and issues with equipment through visual examination and electrical testing. These electricians can provide a formal inspection, a step above your regular electrical maintenance, great for your company or business records to show that you as an employer are meeting the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.
How often to PAT test?
Because industrial and commercial settings can be so varied in nature, from shops to factories, or flats to power production facilities, the frequency of PAT testing will differ for individual, unique scenarios. It also is determined by the nature of the equipment and appliances that need testing, which are extremely different between both commercial and industrial settings.
What documentation will I receive?
Once the PAT test has been carried out, you should receive quite a detailed report covering the work that has been carried out. It should show:
- An inventory of appliance types, names, locations and descriptions
- All of the test results in full for each appliance
- Details and explanations of any failed appliances, describing the fault and if possible explaining why the appliances have failed
- A label that visibly states pass or fail, details of the inspection date, next inspection due and the inspectors name
In summary
PAT testing is a great way to make sure your appliances are safe and working, whether you are in an industrial or commercial setting, and you will receive a full report of the work carried out. We at Walker Electrical Contractors Ltd have a vast range of experience regarding PAT testing in both industrial and commercial environments. Get in touch today.