What is PAT Testing?
EET Testing (Electrical Equipment Testing)
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is a process to ensure the safety of portable electrical equipment in the workplace. It involves inspecting and testing all portable electrically powered items to comply with regulations and safeguard assets and employees. Recently, the term has evolved to EET Testing (Electrical Equipment Testing), as per the IET 5th Edition Code of Practice for the In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment.
EET Testing (Electrical Equipment Testing)
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is a process to ensure the safety of portable electrical equipment in the workplace. It involves inspecting and testing all portable electrically powered items to comply with regulations and safeguard assets and employees. Recently, the term has evolved to EET Testing (Electrical Equipment Testing), as per the IET 5th Edition Code of Practice for the In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment.
PAT testing is a legal requirement to ensure the safety of electrical equipment in workplaces. It is supported by The Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, and The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998.
Appliances should be PAT tested once per year as recommended by PAT Testing London. However, insurance guidelines and risk assessments can affect this frequency.
The PAT Testing & Inspection assists ‘Employers’ in meeting their legal obligations for electrical appliance safety. It is an easier way to ensure compliance.
PAT Testing ensures that electrical appliances are safe to use, reducing the risk of accidents. It helps in complying with legal requirements, maintaining workplace safety, and potentially lowering insurance premiums by demonstrating due diligence in safety practices.
What qualifies 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".
What are common causes for PAT Testing appliance failures?
Failures often occur due to bare wires, typically caused by flexes getting caught against sharp edges. Such defects can sometimes be resolved by shortening the flex to remove the damaged section.
Is PAT Testing a legal requirement as of 2025?
Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, employers and suppliers have a legal obligation to routinely inspect and test electrical equipment, particularly portable appliances in workplaces or rented properties.
How does PAT Testing work for 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 usually take?
The duration varies but on average, 30–40 PAT tests can be conducted per hour, subject to factors such as nature of equipment and site layout and accessibility.
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Does electrical equipment need to be switched off for PAT Testing?
Yes, a comprehensive PAT test requires equipment shutdown. The PAT Testing process includes inspecting and testing the equipment and removing connection to the mains outlet. To counteract disruptions, Fast PAT Testing London offer after-hours service, ideal for critical equipment like servers.
What documentation is provided after PAT Testing?
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.
Why is Electrical Equipment Testing important?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.
How does PAT Testing affect insurance coverage?Insurance providers often expect businesses to comply with PAT Testing requirements. Failing to do so can affect claim processing and may require test evidence for coverage.
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Established in 2002We have been working across the UK since 2002. We have run over 40,000 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 24 hours of the work being completed.
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