Portable Appliance Testing
More commonly known as PAT Testing, this covers the following items either within the work place or rented accommodation, (the latter of which applies where a landlord provides fully furnished accommodation, it does not apply to appliances or items not provided by the landlord):
Portable appliances – this is an appliance which is less than 18Kg in mass that it is intended to be moved whilst in operation or an appliance that can be easily moved from one place to another e.g. Kettle, toaster
Moveable equipment – This is an appliance that is either 18Kg or less and is not fixed (e.g. an electric compressor) or has wheels, castors or other means to facilitate movement by the operator as required to performs its intended use e.g. air-conditioning unit
Hand-held appliances or equipment e.g. Power drill, Iron, hairdryer
Stationary Equipment or appliances – this is an appliance that has a mass greater than 18Kg and is not provided with a carrying handle e.g. washing machine, dishwasher, electric cooker (even if this is built in)
Fixed Equipment or appliances* – this is an appliance which is fixed in a specific location e.g. central heating boiler, electric hand dryer. *CGL do not test such appliances under their standard In Service Inspection and should any such appliances be on site then these would be discussed with the ‘Responsible Person’ as these may be covered under the buildings ‘Periodic Testing’ of the Fixed Wiring.
IT Equipment that is mains powered e.g. VDU’s, printers, and power packs.
Extension Leads, RCD extension leads, Multiway Adaptors and RCD Adaptors
Why should the test be undertaken?
To ‘evidence’ that ‘reasonable’ steps have been taken to adhere to the Regulations laid down under Health & Safety and Corporate Manslaughter laws.
The test involves
the following checks;
- Visual inspection
- In service tests which involve checking the potential for an electric shock from the item being tested and that the item in use works properly. This test is done at a minimum on IT Equipment to avoid damage.
- Assessing the suitability of the continuing use of an item based upon its use and location
- Bringing any faults to the attention of the delegated “Responsible Person” on site.
- Providing a summary of the Results once the tests are completed, along with a recommendation for when the next ‘Test’ should be undertaken*
It should be noted that the Code of Practice for ISI lays out a of table recommendations
