what is pat testing

Portable Appliance Testing is the routine checking of electrical appliances to determine whether they are safe.
Think of it as an MOT for your electrical appliances, if you like.

System of formal, recorded visual checks and combined inspection and testing using a PAT testing meter. This is usually carried out on any equipment which has a plug, whether or not it is portable. (Portable handheld equipment is likely to need more frequent PAT testing than equipment which tends to stay in the same place)

The Health & Safety Executive states that 25% of all reportable electrical accidents involve portable appliances. The Electricity at Work Regulations place a legal responsibility on employers, employees and self-employed persons to comply with the provisions of the regulations and take reasonably practicable steps to ensure that no danger results from the use of such equipment. This in effect requires the implementation of a systematic and regular program of maintenance, inspection and testing. The Health & Safety at Work Act (1974) places such an obligation in the following circumstances:

1. Where appliances are used by employees.
2. Where the public may use appliances in establishments such as hospitals, schools, hotels, shops etc.
3. Where appliances are supplied or hired.
4. Where appliances are repaired or serviced.