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FAQ's

FAQ’s Common questions about PAT testing and portable appliance testing

Basically, any item with a plug that can be moved or unplugged should be PAT tested. This includes things like:

  • Hand held- appliances held whilst on and in use, hairdryers, drills etc.

  • Portable- weighing less than 18kg can be moved in operation or easily moved from one place to another, extensions, toasters, kettles, fans etc.

  • Stationary- exceeding 18kg not intended to be moved once positioned, fridges, washing machines etc

  • Moveable- 18kg or less not fixed with wheels or other means to facilitate movement, compressors, air conditioning units etc.
  • Fixed – secured in position or fastened to a support, ovens, radiators, hobs

  • IT equipment- computers, photocopiers, printers etc

A visual inspection is always carried out. The appliance is checked for visible damage such as frayed cords, exposed parts or broken cases. The plug is also checked for damage and correct fusing. Where possible we repair minor damage and replace plugs for free as part of your PAT testing and appliance testing visit.

An in-depth PAT testing test can include up to three components depending on the class of the appliance.

This is carried out by plugging the appliance into our testing apparatus and running the appropriate electrical portable appliance testing.

Earth continuity – checks there is a good connection between the mains plug and any earthed metal parts.

Insulation resistance – checks the condition of insulation between conductive parts by measuring resistance.

Polarity test – checks that the appliance is wired correctly when you cannot visually check a moulded plug.

Earth continuity- this test ensures that there is a good connection between the mains plug and any earthed metal parts.

Insulation resistance: this test indicates the condition of the insulation between two conductive parts by measuring the resistance given.

Polarity test- this is IEC specific this checks the appliance is wired correctly when you cannot visually check a moulded plug.

We offer evening and weekend PAT testing and portable appliance testing at no extra cost. Our aim is to cause minimal disruption to you and your staff while delivering a full and thorough safety check of your electrical appliances.

Our PAT test engineers are all City & Guilds 2377 certified, hold full public liability insurance and are enhanced DBS checked, making them trusted to carry out PAT testing for schools, offices, hospitality and many other environments.

Each asset is clearly listed on an asset register which you receive shortly after job completion, along with your PAT testing Certificate of Compliance. Our reports highlight any issues we think you should know about, such as cracked wall sockets or broken fixed wired appliances, even if they fall outside the normal scope of portable appliance testing.