What happens during a Portable Appliance Test
(PAT)?
Background
Our
Portable
appliance testing engineers are
qualified electricians and conform to the code of
practice as set out by the
Institute of Electrical
Engineers (IEE),
now known as the IET.
The Institution of Engineering and Technology was formed by
the joining together of two great institutions; the IEE
(Institution of Electrical Engineers) and the IIE (The
Institution of Incorporated Engineers).
We
comply fully with the testing
code of best practice
endorsed by the IEE. It is important that any prospective
client understands the need for full compliance with this
code.
What the PAT test consists of.
The test involves a series of
inspections and electrical tests on
each item. These tests vary depending on the class of the
item.
A visual inspection is carried out to check for faults /damage
to the:
• Plug Casing- (cracked or scorch marked)
• Damage to the flex of the appliance. (Cracked or cut)
• The wiring of the plug is checked to ensure correct and
secure termination
• The fuse rating of the plug is checked.
Then a
sequence of electrical
tests are performed depending on the
class of the equipment.
• Insulation test
• Earth continuity test
• Touch leakage test
• Leakage test
• Polarity test
The cord or cable MUST be checked
to comply with IEE best practice.
What will happen if an appliance
fails a test?
Most failures
will be easily identified and rectified at the time of
inspection and testing. If the item cannot be repaired by our
engineer then the appliance could be beyond repair or require
a more specialist repair. We will notify you of the situation
in each and every case and will also (with your permission)
remove the plug and cable to ensure the item cannot be used
We have provided a more
detailed summary of the testing procedure to enable
you to fully understand what will happen on the day of your
test and what level of service / expertise you can expect from
us.
PAT testing FAQ.
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