PAT Testing is something that both employees and employers should know about according to the 1989 Electricity at Work Regulations Act. It is an employer’s responsibility to train their staff to understand the basic concept of PAT Testing or at least request an electrical contractor to do the work. It is also their responsibility to follow these three important rules:
Below are also some handy tips you need to know about PAT Testing:
Portable Equipment
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) defines portable equipment as something that is connected to a generator or fixed installation by the use of a cable or plug socket. Portable equipment is hand operated and designed to be moved while being connected to the supply, this includes extension leads, sockets and also cord sets.
Testing and Inspection
There are two main separate activities regarding portable equipment, testing and inspections. The first one is a visual inspection and this is to check for any form of damage or deterioration; the second is a PAT Device Test in which the testing requirements always depend on the appliance at hand, this also includes an insulation test.
Risk Assessments
These risk assessments determine whether or not you need a visual inspection test or a PAT Device Test. It must always include the type of appliance that is being inspected, the location in which it is to be used in and what it is used for.
These are just some of the main purposes you need to know about PAT Testing, especially if you work within a commercial environment, if you have any further questions or queries, then please do not hesitate to give us a call.