In-service Inspection & Testing of Electrical Equipment -
PAT Testing

PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. Now it is called In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment. There are two parts of it and it is called Combined Inspection and testing. In the first part, we are examining the electrical appliance to detect faulty electrical equipment so they can be fixed to prevent any accident. In the second part we use PAT Testing or Multifunction Tester to carry our Earth Leakage, Insulation Resistance and Earth Continuity (Earth Bonding) test.

Once the PAT has been completed, all appliances will be labelled with a "passed" or "failed" tag which will include the test date along with the appliance ID number.

As per general ‘rule of thumb’ for PAT testing is that anything that has an electrical plug and can be moved should be tested. General household items should be tested regularly are:

• Microwaves and portable grills

• Toasters and Kettles

• Coffee machines and Milk Frrothers

• TVs and Desktop Computers

• Table and StandingLamps

• Vacuum cleaners

Larger or built-in appliances such as fridges, freezers, washing machines, tumble dryers and dishwashers, may seem like a fixed appliance (FAT Test), but for testing purposes, they are considered portable because they have a plug. Similarly, some items that are fixed to a surface but have a plug socket, like a heated towel rail, also fall under the PAT testing recommendations.

Extension leads are another frequently tested item as they are a common safety hazard. Realistically, extension leads should be avoided where possible – but if you do provide your tenant with any, it’s wise to get them tested.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) doesn't provide a specific timeframe for how frequently PAT tests should be carried out due to the main reason as each environment and appliance calls for different measures.

It’s good practice for landlords to have all your appliances PAT tested before the new tenants arrive. Generally, smaller appliances should be tested every two years and larger items like fridges and washing machines should be tested in four-year intervals.

PAT testing is not a legal requirement in the UK. Although, employers are required by H&S (HSE) law to ensure that their electrical equipment is in good working order and will not pose a risk to the employees that are using it, and to standardise a Combined Inspection and Testing on all of your equipment is one of the best Health & Safety Practise.