Portable Appliance Testing ( PAT Test )
What is a Portable Appliance Testing
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is a safety procedure carried out by a qualified contractor.
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A PAT tester will perform a visual inspection and test, using specialist PAT testing equipment. Only high voltage power cables and devices require testing. Depending on the condition of the appliance and the test result, the item will be given a “PASS” or “FAIL” status.
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Saudi Health and Safety Regulations state preventing harm to workers and other personnel through well maintained electrical appliances is paramount. Manufacturers of portable appliances recommend testing at regular intervals to ensure the continued safety of their products.
Why do we need PAT Testing
The Saudi Health & Safety Executive believe that 37% of all electrical accidents involve portable appliances.
The Saudi Electricity at Work Regulations place a legal responsibility on employers, employees and self-employed persons to comply with the provisions of the regulations.
Taking reasonably practicable steps to ensure that no danger results from the use of such equipment.
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Without PAT Test you could be in a very difficult situation if an electrical accident were to occur and insurance companies and the Health and Safety Executive will expect you to perform PAT Testing to ensure that you are compliant. Remember, according to the Health & Safety Executive, portable appliances account for 25% of all reportable electrical accidents.
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All portable electrical equipment is subject to getting damaged during use, and this damage could render the equipment dangerous to the user. Without a regular programme of testing and inspection, you have not taken reasonable steps to ensure the safety of users.
Frequency of PAT Testing
Regular testing and routine user inspections, will provide reasonably practicable steps to keep appliances in good working order. This will help to prevent injury from electrical accidents.
The frequency of testing for each item will vary. If you are unsure how often you need testing we are happy to advise (you can easily over test your appliances). Call or send us a message even if you are not a customer with us, we’ll explain what is legally required of you and how your business or property can ensure electrical safety.
Also we are specialised in Electrical Consultancy, Electrical Inspection and Testing.
PAT Testing process
Portable appliance testing includes a thorough visual check of the appliance and a series of tests on professional PAT testing equipment.
In accordance with the Health & Safety At Work Act 1974, and your company’s Fire Risk Assessment, tests and inspections, the appliance or lead being tested is checked for a variety of faults. It either passes or fails and given a pass or fail sticker as appropriate. A certificate of testing is also provided for the business showing the results of all tests. We will effect minor repairs at the time of testing (for example an incorrect fuse rating or damaged plug or IEC lead) in order that the equipment is safe to use and can be passed; more significant faults or damage will be reported to the business manager.
The testing will involve switching items off if they are already on. To minimise disruption to staff and customers, the testing can be done out of hours in most circumstances.
All testing is carried out in accordance with The Institute of Electrical Engineers’ (IEE) code of practice, with full public liability insurance. Protek (UK) is an NICEIC registered Portable Appliance Testing Company and all of our engineers are fully UK qualified.