PAT Testers

Portable Appliance Testing

‍Portable appliance testing (commonly known as PAT or PAT Inspection or PAT Testing) is a process by which electrical appliances are routinely checked for safety. Anything that has a plug needs to be tested so it cannot electrocute anyone. One of the main challenges with PAT testing in the workplace, however, is that there are many different appliances. Some are more common than others and some are more hazardous than others. Before you begin using a new piece of electrical equipment in your workplace, you need to discover if it requires a PAT inspection before it can be used safely in the office. Portable appliance testing in the workplace is a safety measure that tests all electric equipment before it is used by employees. This type of testing is conducted to make sure that these appliances are not going to pose a danger when they are put into use.

How Does Portable Appliance Testing Work?

Portable appliance testing works by measuring the voltage, current and frequency that electrical equipment uses. It checks that these quantities do not exceed safe limits. The equipment is then tested by plugging it into a special testing socket. The socket is not connected to the mains, but it can accurately measure the current flowing through the equipment. If the current is too high, the equipment is not safe and needs to be modified. The same thing happens if the voltages are too high. It is important to understand that the socket is not connected to the mains during testing.

When Do You Need to Run a Portable Appliance Test?

If you are using a new piece of electrical equipment in your workplace, you will need to conduct a portable appliance test. This test can be used to determine if the equipment is safe for use. Depending on the type of equipment, you may require a specific test. You may also need to use a special testing socket to conduct the tests. If you are in any doubt about whether the equipment is safe for use, you should run a test. If you are using an old piece of equipment, you may decide to use a portable appliance test to verify that it is still safe for use. You may also want to conduct a test if the equipment has been damaged.

Electrical Equipment That Needs to Be Tested by PAT

There is a wide range of equipment that needs to be tested by PAT. This includes computers, printers, scanners, coffee pots, irons, and many other electrical items. There are 3 different “Classes” of equipment which require different attention.

Class 1 Appliances

Potentially the most dangerous. Have little insulation and rely on an earth for safety.

Class 2 Appliances

Have extra insulation and don't require an earth for safety, which makes them safer.

Class 3 Appliances

Are the safest type of electrical equipment. They are typically low-voltage items and the safest class of electrical equipment. Their charging leads may need to be PAT tested.