What is portable appliance testing?

Portable appliance testing (PAT) is the term used to describe the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use.

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Most electrical safety defects can be found by visual examination, whereas some types of defect can only be found by testing.  However, it is essential to understand that both visual examination and testing are required because some types of electrical safety defect cannot be detected by just one approach.

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A relatively brief user check (simple training, perhaps assisted by the use of a brief checklist) can be a very useful part of any electrical maintenance regime.  However, more formal visual inspection and testing by a competent person may also be required at appropriate intervals, depending upon the type of equipment and the environment in which it is used.

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​There are a number of consequences to not having equipment PAT tested, including the risk of insurance premium increases and a strong risk of the business owners being held responsible should an accident or injury occur.