Wherry Electrical

PAT Testing

PAT Testing service for shops, offices, holiday lets, cottages and B&Bs.

At this time of year the bookings are starting to grow and now is the time to check your legal obligations such as a gas safety certificate but what about PAT testing?

What does ‘PAT’ stand for?

‘PAT’ stands for ‘Portable Appliance Testing’.

A PAT test is a routine inspection of some types of electrical appliance to check they are safe to use. Its purpose is to prevent electrical accidents.

A full PAT test should include both a visual inspection and a more in-depth check using specialist PAT testing equipment. This test includes earth continuity, lead polarity, and insulation resistance checks.

Some appliances only need a reduced test, called a PAT insulation test.

At the end of a PAT test, every appliance should be marked ‘passed or failed’

There is no definition of what a ‘Portable Appliance’ is in the current legislation, however the standard interpretation is “any appliance that has a plug attached to it and plugs into a wall socket.

Is PAT testing a legal obligation?

PAT testing is not, in itself, a legal obligation.

However, current UK legislation states that businesses must maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition.

They also have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of employees and the public.

Because PAT testing is one of the most effective ways to do this, it has become a standard way of meeting this legal obligation.

Call Graham on 07788 456761

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