Our home and work lives revolve around electronic products and appliances. Whether it’s light switches or a personal computer, we run on electricity. However, with our reliance on electrical power comes a variety of risks that need to be understood.
This is where a PAT test comes in. Carried out by a trained electrician, a PAT test can make the difference between working with safe appliances and putting yourself at risk. Yet, what actually is a PAT test? If you’re unsure how a PAT test can help you, read on to learn more.
What does it entail?
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is basically a routine inspection of certain types of electronic appliances, ensuring that they are safe to use and minimising electrical accidents in the workplace.
In order to carry out a comprehensive PAT test, an electrician will carry out a full visual inspection of the appliance and a more specific check using PAT testing equipment. At the end of the PAT test, all appliances will be marked with either a ‘pass’ or ‘fail’ with everything tested being recorded.
Some appliances only need what is known as a PAT insulation test, which is a less in-depth version of the standard testing procedure.
Is it a legal obligation?
A PAT test is not a legal obligation, however, it should be noted that the UK government requires businesses to ensure a safe environment for their employees; this includes maintaining electronic equipment.
In not meeting this legal obligation on electrical safety, you could be risking prosecution, with sentences as high as two years imprisonment. With this in mind, a PAT test can be one of the best ways to ensure that you’re remaining compliant to electrical safety laws.
What are electrical appliances are covered?
The ‘portable’ part of PAT testing can be somewhat misleading as there are actually 7 categories of appliance that should be PAT tested. These include fixed, stationary and portable appliances; chargers and other cables fall under PAT testing too so it’s important to ascertain what falls under the test.
Interlink Lighting – Comprehensive PAT testing to ensure your electronics are safe
When it comes to your electronics, safety should always be the top priority. Although a ‘competent person’ can carry out a PAT test yourself, if done incorrectly, you could put you and others you work with in a dangerous situation.
Don’t take the risk and instead, hire Interlink Lighting to carry out your PAT test. Our team of qualified technicians are on hand to ensure that your electronic appliances are running at optimum efficiency and you’re working in a safe electronic environment.
Learn more about our comprehensive PAT tests here or get in touch on +44 (0) 141 429 1254.
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