What Is PAT Testing?<\/title>\n<style>\n*{box-sizing:border-box}\nbody{margin:0;background:#fff;color:#172117}\na{text-decoration:none}\n.patx{--g:#075f05;--dg:#043f04;--deep:#032f03;--lg:#eef8ec;--sg:#f7fbf6;--y:#f0dc00;--t:#172117;--m:#687168;--b:#dce8dc;overflow:hidden}\n.patx-wrap{width:min(1180px,calc(100% - 40px));margin:auto}\n.patx-ey{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;gap:10px;margin-bottom:14px;color:var(--g);font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:1.6px;text-transform:uppercase}\n.patx-ey:before{content:\"\";width:34px;height:3px;border-radius:99px;background:var(--y)}\n.patx-ey.light{color:var(--y)}\n.patx-h2{margin:0;font-size:clamp(34px,4.5vw,55px);line-height:1.03;letter-spacing:-2px;font-weight:900}\n.patx-h2 span{color:var(--g)}\n.patx-btn{min-height:50px;display:inline-flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center;padding:11px 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span{width:29px;height:29px;border-radius:50%;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center;background:var(--lg);color:var(--g)}\n.patx-faq[open] summary span{transform:rotate(45deg);background:var(--y);color:var(--dg)}\n.patx-answer{padding:0 19px 19px;color:var(--m);font-size:11px;line-height:1.7}\n\n.patx-final{padding:82px 0;background:var(--deep);text-align:center}\n.patx-final .patx-ey{justify-content:center}\n.patx-final h2{margin:0;color:#fff;font-size:clamp(36px,5vw,60px);line-height:1.02}\n.patx-final h2 span{color:var(--y)}\n.patx-final p{max-width:660px;margin:17px auto 0;color:rgba(255,255,255,.72);font-size:13px;line-height:1.7}\n.patx-final .patx-actions{justify-content:center}\n\n@media(max-width:1024px){\n .patx-process,.patx-grid4{grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr)}\n .patx-strip{grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr)}\n}\n@media(max-width:780px){\n .patx-hero-grid,.patx-two,.patx-law-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr;gap:38px}\n}\n@media(max-width:580px){\n .patx-wrap{width:calc(100% - 30px)}\n .patx-strip{width:calc(100% - 30px);grid-template-columns:1fr}\n .patx-process,.patx-test-grid,.patx-grid4{grid-template-columns:1fr}\n .patx-actions{flex-direction:column}\n .patx-btn{width:100%}\n .patx-sec{padding:66px 0}\n}\n<\/style>\n<\/head>\n<body>\n<div class=\"patx\">\n\n<section class=\"patx-hero\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap patx-hero-grid\">\n <div>\n <div class=\"patx-ey light\">A Clear Guide to Appliance Safety<\/div>\n <h1>What Is <span>PAT Testing?<\/span><\/h1>\n <p>PAT testing is a practical way to inspect and, where appropriate, electrically test workplace appliances to help determine whether they remain safe to use.<\/p>\n <div class=\"patx-actions\">\n <a class=\"patx-btn y\" href=\"\/contact-us\/\">Get a Free Quote<\/a>\n <a class=\"patx-btn o\" href=\"tel:02089516820\">Call 0208 951 6820<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"patx-trust\">\n <span><i class=\"patx-tick\">\u2713<\/i>Visual inspection<\/span>\n <span><i class=\"patx-tick\">\u2713<\/i>Suitable electrical tests<\/span>\n <span><i class=\"patx-tick\">\u2713<\/i>Clear testing records<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <aside class=\"patx-panel\">\n <small>PAT Testing in One Minute<\/small>\n <h2>It is more than simply plugging an appliance into a machine<\/h2>\n <p>A proper assessment considers the equipment type, construction class, condition, environment and how it is used.<\/p>\n <div class=\"patx-panel-list\">\n <div><i>1<\/i>Identify the appliance<\/div>\n <div><i>2<\/i>Inspect its visible condition<\/div>\n <div><i>3<\/i>Carry out suitable electrical tests<\/div>\n <div><i>4<\/i>Record the result and any defects<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/aside>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<div class=\"patx-strip\">\n <div><span class=\"patx-strip-icon\">\ud83d\udc41<\/span><span><strong>Visual Inspection<\/strong><small>Plugs, cables, casings and damage<\/small><\/span><\/div>\n <div><span class=\"patx-strip-icon\">\u26a1<\/span><span><strong>Electrical Testing<\/strong><small>Checks selected for the equipment<\/small><\/span><\/div>\n <div><span class=\"patx-strip-icon\">\ud83d\udcc4<\/span><span><strong>Testing Records<\/strong><small>Clear results following the visit<\/small><\/span><\/div>\n <div><span class=\"patx-strip-icon\">\ud83d\udee1<\/span><span><strong>Risk Management<\/strong><small>Supports safer equipment maintenance<\/small><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap patx-two\">\n <div>\n <div class=\"patx-ey\">The Basic Definition<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">Portable Appliance Testing <span>Explained<\/span><\/h2>\n <\/div>\n <div>\n <p class=\"patx-lead\">Portable Appliance Testing, commonly shortened to PAT testing, combines a formal visual inspection with suitable electrical tests where these are required.<\/p>\n <p class=\"patx-copy\">Despite the name, the service can include more than small hand-held items. It may also cover movable, stationary and plug-in equipment, depending on how the equipment is connected and used.<\/p>\n <p class=\"patx-copy\">The purpose is to identify damage, deterioration, unsuitable repairs or electrical faults that could create a risk of electric shock, burns or fire.<\/p>\n <div class=\"patx-note\">\n <div>\n <b>PAT testing is not one identical test for every appliance<\/b>\n <span>The correct inspection and testing sequence depends on the equipment class, construction, condition and operating environment.<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec patx-soft\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap\">\n <div class=\"patx-center\">\n <div class=\"patx-ey\">How It Works<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">The PAT Testing <span>Process<\/span><\/h2>\n <p class=\"patx-intro\">A professional visit should follow a clear sequence rather than relying only on an automated tester.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"patx-process\">\n <article class=\"patx-step\"><span>01<\/span><h3>Identify the Equipment<\/h3><p>The appliance, location, equipment class and rating information are reviewed.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-step\"><span>02<\/span><h3>Inspect Visually<\/h3><p>The plug, cable, casing and accessible parts are checked for visible defects.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-step\"><span>03<\/span><h3>Complete Suitable Tests<\/h3><p>Relevant electrical tests are selected according to the equipment design and class.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-step\"><span>04<\/span><h3>Record the Result<\/h3><p>Passes, failures and observations are documented so appropriate action can be taken.<\/p><\/article>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap\">\n <div class=\"patx-center\">\n <div class=\"patx-ey\">What May Be Checked<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">Inspection and Electrical <span>Tests<\/span><\/h2>\n <p class=\"patx-intro\">Not every appliance requires every test. The engineer selects the checks that are suitable for the item.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"patx-test-grid\">\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\ud83d\udc41<\/span><div><h3>Formal Visual Inspection<\/h3><p>Checks for damaged plugs, exposed wires, worn cables, cracked casings, overheating and unsuitable modifications.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\u23da<\/span><div><h3>Earth Continuity<\/h3><p>For suitable Class I equipment, checks the continuity of the protective earth path.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\u223f<\/span><div><h3>Insulation Resistance<\/h3><p>Assesses the condition of electrical insulation between live and accessible parts where appropriate.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\u2699<\/span><div><h3>Leakage Current<\/h3><p>May be used for suitable equipment to assess current flowing through protective or accessible paths.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\ud83d\udd0c<\/span><div><h3>Lead and Polarity Checks<\/h3><p>Extension leads and detachable leads may be checked for continuity, insulation and correct wiring.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\u25b6<\/span><div><h3>Functional Check<\/h3><p>Where appropriate and safe, the appliance may be operated to confirm normal basic function.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec patx-dark\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap\">\n <div class=\"patx-center\">\n <div class=\"patx-ey light\">What Can Be Tested?<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">Common Appliance <span>Categories<\/span><\/h2>\n <p class=\"patx-intro\" style=\"color:rgba(255,255,255,.68)\">The service may cover a wide range of electrical equipment found in workplaces, schools, rental properties and commercial premises.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"patx-grid4\">\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83d\udda5<\/i><h3>Office Equipment<\/h3><p>Computers, monitors, printers, shredders and associated leads.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\u2615<\/i><h3>Kitchen Appliances<\/h3><p>Kettles, microwaves, coffee machines and similar equipment.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83d\udee0<\/i><h3>Portable Tools<\/h3><p>Suitable hand-held and portable powered equipment.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83d\udd0c<\/i><h3>Extension Leads<\/h3><p>Extension blocks, detachable cables and related accessories.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83d\udca1<\/i><h3>Portable Lighting<\/h3><p>Desk lamps, floor lamps and movable lighting equipment.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83c\udfe0<\/i><h3>Landlord Appliances<\/h3><p>Electrical items supplied within furnished rental properties.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83c\udfeb<\/i><h3>Educational Equipment<\/h3><p>Classroom, office and shared appliances within schools and colleges.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83c\udfed<\/i><h3>Commercial Equipment<\/h3><p>Applicable equipment in warehouses, retail and hospitality premises.<\/p><\/article>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec patx-light\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap patx-law-grid\">\n <div>\n <div class=\"patx-ey\">Legal Responsibilities<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">Is PAT Testing a <span>Legal Requirement?<\/span><\/h2>\n <p class=\"patx-lead\">UK law requires electrical equipment used at work to be maintained so that it does not present a danger.<\/p>\n <p class=\"patx-copy\">The law does not prescribe one compulsory test called a PAT test, nor does it require every appliance to be tested annually.<\/p>\n <p class=\"patx-copy\">Visual inspection and electrical testing can form part of a suitable maintenance system. The appropriate frequency should reflect the equipment, its use, the environment and previous results.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <aside class=\"patx-law-card\">\n <small>The Practical Position<\/small>\n <h3>Risk determines the maintenance approach<\/h3>\n <p>Equipment used frequently or exposed to rough handling may need checking more often than equipment used occasionally in a clean office.<\/p>\n <div class=\"patx-law-list\">\n <div><i>1<\/i>Consider how the equipment is used<\/div>\n <div><i>2<\/i>Assess the likelihood of damage<\/div>\n <div><i>3<\/i>Review previous inspection results<\/div>\n <div><i>4<\/i>Choose suitable inspection intervals<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/aside>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec patx-soft\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap\">\n <div class=\"patx-center\">\n <div class=\"patx-ey\">Common Questions<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">PAT Testing <span>FAQs<\/span><\/h2>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"patx-faqs\">\n <details class=\"patx-faq\" open><summary>Does PAT testing mean every appliance is plugged into a tester?<span>+<\/span><\/summary><div class=\"patx-answer\">No. A formal visual inspection is a major part of the process, and the appropriate electrical tests depend on the equipment class and design.<\/div><\/details>\n <details class=\"patx-faq\"><summary>How often should PAT testing be carried out?<span>+<\/span><\/summary><div class=\"patx-answer\">There is no universal interval. Frequency should be based on the equipment, how often it is used, the environment, likelihood of damage and previous results.<\/div><\/details>\n <details class=\"patx-faq\"><summary>Does every appliance require the same tests?<span>+<\/span><\/summary><div class=\"patx-answer\">No. For example, Class II equipment does not rely on a protective earth and therefore does not require an earth continuity test.<\/div><\/details>\n <details class=\"patx-faq\"><summary>What happens when an appliance fails?<span>+<\/span><\/summary><div class=\"patx-answer\">Unsafe equipment should be removed from use and clearly identified. It can then be repaired by a competent person or replaced.<\/div><\/details>\n <details class=\"patx-faq\"><summary>Do PAT testing certificates expire?<span>+<\/span><\/summary><div class=\"patx-answer\">Testing records do not have a universal legal expiry date. The next inspection should be planned according to risk, use, environment and the organisation's maintenance system.<\/div><\/details>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-final\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap\">\n <div class=\"patx-ey light\">Request a Quote<\/div>\n <h2>Arrange Professional <span>PAT Testing<\/span><\/h2>\n <p>Tell us your location, premises type and approximate appliance quantity. Our team will provide a straightforward quotation.<\/p>\n <div class=\"patx-actions\">\n <a class=\"patx-btn y\" href=\"\/contact-us\/\">Get a Free Quote<\/a>\n <a class=\"patx-btn o\" href=\"tel:02089516820\">Call 0208 951 6820<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/body>\n<\/html>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What Is PAT Testing? A Clear Guide to Appliance Safety What Is PAT Testing? PAT testing is a practical way to inspect and, where appropriate, electrically test workplace appliances to help determine whether they remain safe to use. Get a Free Quote Call 0208 951 6820 \u2713Visual inspection \u2713Suitable electrical tests \u2713Clear testing records PAT […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-459","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\n<title>What is PAT Testing - PAT Testing<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"PAT testing involves a visual inspection to check the appliance casing and flex for wear & damage & plugs for correct wiring & fuse rating.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/portableappliance-testing.org.uk\/wp68\/what-is-pat-testing\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What is PAT Testing - 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.patx-wrap{width:calc(100% - 30px)}\n .patx-strip{width:calc(100% - 30px);grid-template-columns:1fr}\n .patx-process,.patx-test-grid,.patx-grid4{grid-template-columns:1fr}\n .patx-actions{flex-direction:column}\n .patx-btn{width:100%}\n .patx-sec{padding:66px 0}\n}\n<\/style>\n<\/head>\n<body>\n<div class=\"patx\">\n\n<section class=\"patx-hero\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap patx-hero-grid\">\n <div>\n <div class=\"patx-ey light\">A Clear Guide to Appliance Safety<\/div>\n <h1>What Is <span>PAT Testing?<\/span><\/h1>\n <p>PAT testing is a practical way to inspect and, where appropriate, electrically test workplace appliances to help determine whether they remain safe to use.<\/p>\n <div class=\"patx-actions\">\n <a class=\"patx-btn y\" href=\"\/contact-us\/\">Get a Free Quote<\/a>\n <a class=\"patx-btn o\" href=\"tel:02089516820\">Call 0208 951 6820<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"patx-trust\">\n <span><i class=\"patx-tick\">\u2713<\/i>Visual inspection<\/span>\n <span><i class=\"patx-tick\">\u2713<\/i>Suitable electrical tests<\/span>\n <span><i class=\"patx-tick\">\u2713<\/i>Clear testing records<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <aside class=\"patx-panel\">\n <small>PAT Testing in One Minute<\/small>\n <h2>It is more than simply plugging an appliance into a machine<\/h2>\n <p>A proper assessment considers the equipment type, construction class, condition, environment and how it is used.<\/p>\n <div class=\"patx-panel-list\">\n <div><i>1<\/i>Identify the appliance<\/div>\n <div><i>2<\/i>Inspect its visible condition<\/div>\n <div><i>3<\/i>Carry out suitable electrical tests<\/div>\n <div><i>4<\/i>Record the result and any defects<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/aside>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<div class=\"patx-strip\">\n <div><span class=\"patx-strip-icon\">\ud83d\udc41<\/span><span><strong>Visual Inspection<\/strong><small>Plugs, cables, casings and damage<\/small><\/span><\/div>\n <div><span class=\"patx-strip-icon\">\u26a1<\/span><span><strong>Electrical Testing<\/strong><small>Checks selected for the equipment<\/small><\/span><\/div>\n <div><span class=\"patx-strip-icon\">\ud83d\udcc4<\/span><span><strong>Testing Records<\/strong><small>Clear results following the visit<\/small><\/span><\/div>\n <div><span class=\"patx-strip-icon\">\ud83d\udee1<\/span><span><strong>Risk Management<\/strong><small>Supports safer equipment maintenance<\/small><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap patx-two\">\n <div>\n <div class=\"patx-ey\">The Basic Definition<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">Portable Appliance Testing <span>Explained<\/span><\/h2>\n <\/div>\n <div>\n <p class=\"patx-lead\">Portable Appliance Testing, commonly shortened to PAT testing, combines a formal visual inspection with suitable electrical tests where these are required.<\/p>\n <p class=\"patx-copy\">Despite the name, the service can include more than small hand-held items. It may also cover movable, stationary and plug-in equipment, depending on how the equipment is connected and used.<\/p>\n <p class=\"patx-copy\">The purpose is to identify damage, deterioration, unsuitable repairs or electrical faults that could create a risk of electric shock, burns or fire.<\/p>\n <div class=\"patx-note\">\n <div>\n <b>PAT testing is not one identical test for every appliance<\/b>\n <span>The correct inspection and testing sequence depends on the equipment class, construction, condition and operating environment.<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec patx-soft\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap\">\n <div class=\"patx-center\">\n <div class=\"patx-ey\">How It Works<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">The PAT Testing <span>Process<\/span><\/h2>\n <p class=\"patx-intro\">A professional visit should follow a clear sequence rather than relying only on an automated tester.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"patx-process\">\n <article class=\"patx-step\"><span>01<\/span><h3>Identify the Equipment<\/h3><p>The appliance, location, equipment class and rating information are reviewed.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-step\"><span>02<\/span><h3>Inspect Visually<\/h3><p>The plug, cable, casing and accessible parts are checked for visible defects.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-step\"><span>03<\/span><h3>Complete Suitable Tests<\/h3><p>Relevant electrical tests are selected according to the equipment design and class.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-step\"><span>04<\/span><h3>Record the Result<\/h3><p>Passes, failures and observations are documented so appropriate action can be taken.<\/p><\/article>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap\">\n <div class=\"patx-center\">\n <div class=\"patx-ey\">What May Be Checked<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">Inspection and Electrical <span>Tests<\/span><\/h2>\n <p class=\"patx-intro\">Not every appliance requires every test. The engineer selects the checks that are suitable for the item.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"patx-test-grid\">\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\ud83d\udc41<\/span><div><h3>Formal Visual Inspection<\/h3><p>Checks for damaged plugs, exposed wires, worn cables, cracked casings, overheating and unsuitable modifications.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\u23da<\/span><div><h3>Earth Continuity<\/h3><p>For suitable Class I equipment, checks the continuity of the protective earth path.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\u223f<\/span><div><h3>Insulation Resistance<\/h3><p>Assesses the condition of electrical insulation between live and accessible parts where appropriate.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\u2699<\/span><div><h3>Leakage Current<\/h3><p>May be used for suitable equipment to assess current flowing through protective or accessible paths.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\ud83d\udd0c<\/span><div><h3>Lead and Polarity Checks<\/h3><p>Extension leads and detachable leads may be checked for continuity, insulation and correct wiring.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-test\"><span class=\"patx-test-icon\">\u25b6<\/span><div><h3>Functional Check<\/h3><p>Where appropriate and safe, the appliance may be operated to confirm normal basic function.<\/p><\/div><\/article>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec patx-dark\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap\">\n <div class=\"patx-center\">\n <div class=\"patx-ey light\">What Can Be Tested?<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">Common Appliance <span>Categories<\/span><\/h2>\n <p class=\"patx-intro\" style=\"color:rgba(255,255,255,.68)\">The service may cover a wide range of electrical equipment found in workplaces, schools, rental properties and commercial premises.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"patx-grid4\">\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83d\udda5<\/i><h3>Office Equipment<\/h3><p>Computers, monitors, printers, shredders and associated leads.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\u2615<\/i><h3>Kitchen Appliances<\/h3><p>Kettles, microwaves, coffee machines and similar equipment.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83d\udee0<\/i><h3>Portable Tools<\/h3><p>Suitable hand-held and portable powered equipment.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83d\udd0c<\/i><h3>Extension Leads<\/h3><p>Extension blocks, detachable cables and related accessories.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83d\udca1<\/i><h3>Portable Lighting<\/h3><p>Desk lamps, floor lamps and movable lighting equipment.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83c\udfe0<\/i><h3>Landlord Appliances<\/h3><p>Electrical items supplied within furnished rental properties.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83c\udfeb<\/i><h3>Educational Equipment<\/h3><p>Classroom, office and shared appliances within schools and colleges.<\/p><\/article>\n <article class=\"patx-item\"><i>\ud83c\udfed<\/i><h3>Commercial Equipment<\/h3><p>Applicable equipment in warehouses, retail and hospitality premises.<\/p><\/article>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec patx-light\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap patx-law-grid\">\n <div>\n <div class=\"patx-ey\">Legal Responsibilities<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">Is PAT Testing a <span>Legal Requirement?<\/span><\/h2>\n <p class=\"patx-lead\">UK law requires electrical equipment used at work to be maintained so that it does not present a danger.<\/p>\n <p class=\"patx-copy\">The law does not prescribe one compulsory test called a PAT test, nor does it require every appliance to be tested annually.<\/p>\n <p class=\"patx-copy\">Visual inspection and electrical testing can form part of a suitable maintenance system. The appropriate frequency should reflect the equipment, its use, the environment and previous results.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <aside class=\"patx-law-card\">\n <small>The Practical Position<\/small>\n <h3>Risk determines the maintenance approach<\/h3>\n <p>Equipment used frequently or exposed to rough handling may need checking more often than equipment used occasionally in a clean office.<\/p>\n <div class=\"patx-law-list\">\n <div><i>1<\/i>Consider how the equipment is used<\/div>\n <div><i>2<\/i>Assess the likelihood of damage<\/div>\n <div><i>3<\/i>Review previous inspection results<\/div>\n <div><i>4<\/i>Choose suitable inspection intervals<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/aside>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-sec patx-soft\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap\">\n <div class=\"patx-center\">\n <div class=\"patx-ey\">Common Questions<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"patx-h2\">PAT Testing <span>FAQs<\/span><\/h2>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"patx-faqs\">\n <details class=\"patx-faq\" open><summary>Does PAT testing mean every appliance is plugged into a tester?<span>+<\/span><\/summary><div class=\"patx-answer\">No. A formal visual inspection is a major part of the process, and the appropriate electrical tests depend on the equipment class and design.<\/div><\/details>\n <details class=\"patx-faq\"><summary>How often should PAT testing be carried out?<span>+<\/span><\/summary><div class=\"patx-answer\">There is no universal interval. Frequency should be based on the equipment, how often it is used, the environment, likelihood of damage and previous results.<\/div><\/details>\n <details class=\"patx-faq\"><summary>Does every appliance require the same tests?<span>+<\/span><\/summary><div class=\"patx-answer\">No. For example, Class II equipment does not rely on a protective earth and therefore does not require an earth continuity test.<\/div><\/details>\n <details class=\"patx-faq\"><summary>What happens when an appliance fails?<span>+<\/span><\/summary><div class=\"patx-answer\">Unsafe equipment should be removed from use and clearly identified. It can then be repaired by a competent person or replaced.<\/div><\/details>\n <details class=\"patx-faq\"><summary>Do PAT testing certificates expire?<span>+<\/span><\/summary><div class=\"patx-answer\">Testing records do not have a universal legal expiry date. The next inspection should be planned according to risk, use, environment and the organisation's maintenance system.<\/div><\/details>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"patx-final\">\n <div class=\"patx-wrap\">\n <div class=\"patx-ey light\">Request a Quote<\/div>\n <h2>Arrange Professional <span>PAT Testing<\/span><\/h2>\n <p>Tell us your location, premises type and approximate appliance quantity. Our team will provide a straightforward quotation.<\/p>\n <div class=\"patx-actions\">\n <a class=\"patx-btn y\" href=\"\/contact-us\/\">Get a Free Quote<\/a>\n <a class=\"patx-btn o\" href=\"tel:02089516820\">Call 0208 951 6820<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/body>\n<\/html>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What Is PAT Testing? A Clear Guide to Appliance Safety What Is PAT Testing? PAT testing is a practical way to inspect and, where appropriate, electrically test workplace appliances to help determine whether they remain safe to use. Get a Free Quote Call 0208 951 6820 \u2713Visual inspection \u2713Suitable electrical tests \u2713Clear testing records PAT […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-459","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\n<title>What is PAT Testing - PAT Testing<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"PAT testing involves a visual inspection to check the appliance casing and flex for wear & damage & plugs for correct wiring & fuse rating.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/portableappliance-testing.org.uk\/wp68\/what-is-pat-testing\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What is PAT Testing - 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