What is PAT Testing? (EET Electrical Equipment)
EET Testing means: Electrical Equipment Testing.
As outlined in the new IET 5th Edition Code of Practice for the In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment comes a range of changes such as the change in name from PAT Testing (Portable Appliance Testing) to EET Testing (Electrical Equipment Testing). In London EICR Certificates must be carried out every 5 years.
As outlined in the new IET 5th Edition Code of Practice for the In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment comes a range of changes such as the change in name from PAT Testing (Portable Appliance Testing) to EET Testing (Electrical Equipment Testing). In London EICR Certificates must be carried out every 5 years.
Keeping up with Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is not just a legal requisite but a proactive approach to maintaining workplace safety. By understanding its nuances, businesses can ensure they operate within regulations while safeguarding their assets and employees.
Understanding Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)
What is classed as a portable appliance for PAT testing?
Portable appliances (electrical equipment) are electrically powered items not permanently integrated into electrical installations (hard wired). They connect via flexible leads, plugs, and sockets. Examples include electric kettles, PCs, printers, microwaves, and even larger machinery like fax machines and scanners. They're all classed under the scope of "portable appliances."
Identifying common reasons for PAT Testing appliance failures
Frequently, it's bare wires that trigger failures, which usually result from flexes getting caught against sharp edges. Devices like industrial vacuum cleaners, with their elongated flexes, are particularly susceptible. Nevertheless, if the defect is near the plug, the flex can be shortened to remove the damaged section without incurring additional fees.
The legal aspect: who should be concerned?
Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, there's a binding legal obligation on employers and suppliers. It mandates routine electrical equipment inspection and testing, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of all portable appliances in workplaces or tenanted properties.
PAT Testing, servers and critical systems
Certain environments, like server rooms, make it challenging to power down equipment. In such situations, a visual inspection might suffice temporarily as there may be a reduced risk as service equipment is not typically accessed by most members of staff.
Nevertheless, combined inspections and tests should be planned for the forthcoming scheduled maintenance downtime. It is recommended that businesses conduct risk assessments to determine how often PAT testing needs to be carried out in their server rooms.
Nevertheless, combined inspections and tests should be planned for the forthcoming scheduled maintenance downtime. It is recommended that businesses conduct risk assessments to determine how often PAT testing needs to be carried out in their server rooms.
Can PAT Testing damage IT equipment?
When performed properly, PAT Testing is harmless to electrical equipment. Employing 'soft tests' during the testing phase ensures that sensitive electrical appliances, especially IT devices, remain undamaged.
How long does PAT Testing take?
The time taken varies subject to factors such as nature of equipment and site layout and accessability.
On average, you can expect circa 30–40 PAT tests per hour.
On average, you can expect circa 30–40 PAT tests per hour.
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Does electrical equipment need to be switched off for PAT Testing?
Absolutely. A comprehensive PAT test mandates equipment shutdown. This process includes inspecting the main plug and fuse, unattainable with the device powered on. To counteract disruptions, Fast PAT Testing London offer after-hours service, ideal for critical equipment like servers.
The rationale behind Electrical Equipment Testing
Businesses, regardless of size or individual self-employment status, carry the legal obligation to undergo electrical inspections under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Regular assessments not only adhere to legislation but also mitigate the potential risk to persons or property using electrical equipment.
Implications for insurance coverage
Fulfilling the aforementioned legalities is an expectation from insurance providers. Neglecting PAT Testing might compromise claim processing. Some providers even demand test evidence/ certification prior to insuring or servicing claims.
PAT Testing certification and reports
After PAT Testing, in addition to the applied labels, certificates and test results are provided electronically via email. Alternatively, a printed version can be requested.
Established in 2002We have been working across the UK since 2002. We have run over 8,000 PAT Test across London and the South East. We also have a team on hand that can help with Window Installations, Plumbing, Skip Hire and many other trades. If you need anymore information then please do get in touch using our contact form.
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Our AimCustomer service is our companies main aim. We are a team of engineers that make sure we put the client first. We can help with all your PAT Testing in London and the surrounding areas. We have built an easy to use procedure to make sure the customer is always pleased. Delivering your PAT tests via PDF within 48 hours of the work being completed.
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