Frequently Asked Questions
PAT Testing - or Portable Appliance Testing, is the process of ensuring a portable or non-fixed appliance or equipment (something with a plug on it) is safe to use, doesn't have any damaged external parts, and doesn't pose an electric shock risk.
FAT Testing - or Fixed Appliance Testing, is the process of ensuring a fixed or built-in appliance or equipment (something that usually connects to a fused spur) is safe to use, doesn't have any damaged external parts, and doesn't pose an electric shock risk.
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Historically fixed appliances were not tested, this is because PAT Testers generally only tested devices with plugs on, and electrical condition tests (EICR's / Periodic Inspections) only tested the wiring within the walls, consumer unit's, and outlets, not the devices wired into them. This changed in the 5th edition of the In-service Inspection and Testing code of practice, bringing them in scope.
Yes and No - although the service "PAT Testing" is not law, legislation is in place to ensure that equipment provided or used within a workplace* is safe to use and has records showing proper inspection and/or maintenance.
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Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974
The Electricity at Work Regulations of 1989
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations of 1998
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations of 1999
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Failure to comply with the regulations is a serious offence, and if someone gets injured or worse due to a faulty electrical appliance then steep fines and prison are all available to prosecutors.
The most common practice to ensure electrical appliances and equipment is safe to use, and records such an inspection has taken place, is, of course, PAT Testing (and FAT Testing).
*Workplace is not just defined as a place of work. Equipment loaned or hired, properties that are rented, electrical equipment which is sold for commercial gain (money), and equipment used by tradespeople in a property (including cleaners).
Basically any electrical equipment that is not part of the fabric of the building is in-scope.
For portable equipment this might include Kettles, Computers, Vending Machines, Fridges, Extension Leads etc...
Fixed equipment includes Hand Dryers, Cookers, Water Heaters, Intercoms & Doorbells, Air Conditioners etc...
Battery powered equipment doesn't need testing, although the chargers for such equipment do!
With the 5th Edition code of practice, intervals are now based on Risk Assessments. An extension lead or power tool on a building site is more risky than perhaps a computer on a desk in an office.
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Items within the same area might fall under different risk assessments, for instance a computer monitor might be low risk, but a phone charger on the same desk might be higher risk. A vending machine used by the public, with a mains water connection might be considered high risk.
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Some insurance companies also mandate annual testing as part of the policy.
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Landlords renting out shared/HMO properties are required to have any electrical items included within the rental tested every year!
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Do you rent equipment out? Then you need to have it tested before EVERY new rental.
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Are you self employed working from home? Then it's classed as a Workplace, and you should have your equipment tested.
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Market stall organisers often require proof of testing within 12 months for any equipment you own, including mobile catering vans.
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I recommend testing appliances every year regardless of location - this way it's a regular service and not something easily overlooked.
It's the responsibility of the landlord or business owner to prove when necessary that electrical items have been inspected.
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As part of testing, I will provide you with a PAT Test Certificate plus an asset log covering all items tested.
My pricing schedule is here. PAT Testing starts from just £75 including certificates and paperwork. FAT Testing start from just £30 when done at the same time as PAT Testing.