The key to any job is having the proper tools. When it comes to specific forms of testing, having the right devices means being able to garner accurate, repeatable readings. PAT, which is portable appliance testing, is the process in which electrical equipment like appliances is safe to use.
Safety is paramount when it comes to anything with an electrical current, so testing these products is critical. There is one tool that allows for the safe testing of those appliances. This device is known as a PAT tester and requires a little explaining as far as how and when to use it.
What is PAT Testing?
Before jumping right in and using a PAT tester, it is important to know what the purpose of testing is. The process is somewhat involved, after all. Carry out a visual inspection of the appliance, mains socket, cable, and plug, then do the same process using a tester as well.
The tests include a continuity test, lead polarity test, and insulation resistance check. For some testers, there is also the capability of doing a true leakage test. Each appliance must meet certain safety specifications, and the results recorded. Whether it passes or fails, it must be properly identified, and test details documented.
How to Choose a PAT Tester
When it comes time to find a PAT tester, it can be confusing to see just how many options are available. You will find manual PAT testers, downloadable PAT testers, and Pass/Fail Testers. But which is the right option?
Pass/Fail. These are the simplest PAT checkers out there. They only display a pass/fail result, not any measured value. For the most part, these aren’t accepted because the IET Code of Practice recommends having an actual resistance value measured using another instrument. These can be fine for personal use, however.
Manual. There are typically tests for Class I, Class II, and Extension leads and the limits are typically fixed. There are a few solid manual testers but manual interpretation requires a bit of skill and experience.
Downloadable. These typically have a much broader range of features and tests available. On top of that, you can download appliance details and test data. The testing process is generally much faster this way and a lot less complicated since there is no interpretation required.
What Items Should be PAT Tested?
It is important to understand that there are no current definitions as to what needs to be PAT tested. Basically, “any appliance that has a plug attached and is plugged into a mains wall socket” is defined as a device requiring PAT testing. Any other piece of equipment or electrical item is covered by a number of other means of electrical safety testing.
Typically speaking, there are a few pieces of equipment that should be given PAT testing. IT appliances, moveable appliances, cables and chargers, hand-held appliances, portable appliances, stationary appliances, and fixed appliances should all be considered for PAT testing to verify that they are safe to use.
How Often Should Appliances be PAT Tested
Just as there are no legal requirements or standards in place for PAT testing, there are no requirements for how often devices need to be tested. That said, there are general best practices to keep in mind. Consider the appropriate risk of each item and compare them to criteria like:
- The history and age of the appliance
- How frequently it is used
- Recommendations from the manufacturer
- Appliance category
- Electrical class of the appliance, high or low voltage, etc.
- Risk of the environment in which the appliance is stored and used
With higher risk items, make sure to PAT test them on a more consistent basis. That might be every three months, six months, or once a year depending on the risk level assessed. Low risk items might be fine with a general visual inspection every once in a while.
