Why you need to carry out PAT testing
(portable appliance testing)
There is no specific
regulation that demands PAT tests be carried out. However
there is a legal obligation for many businesses and
organisations to take precautions to ensure any electrical
equipment is safe, maintained and fit for purpose.
It has become common practice for
PAT testing to be carried out as part of a regular system of
maintenance and inspection.
What electrical items need to be tested?
An
electric appliance may be classed as "portable" if
connected to the mains by way of a flexible lead and plug.
The following items (whilst not an exhaustive list) will
give you an idea of the appliances that require testing:
- Kitchen equipment (kettles, microwaves, vending /
coffee machines)
- PC's including printers, faxes, scanners,
copiers, modems plus all leads.
- Power tools including drills, grinders, sanders,
electrical saws etc
(NB Most construction site tools will need inspecting
every 3 months to comply with health and safety standards)
- Landlords
may wish to test items such as hoovers, fridges, kettles etc
The safety regulations may also
be imposed on smaller businesses by local authorities when
using their facilities.
This can effect DJ's, Party
planners, training companies, seminar organisers and many more
businesses.
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