Frequently Asked Questions

What is PAT testing?

PAT Testing is the best way to ensure that electrical appliances are safe and will not cause harm through their use.

First a thorough visual inspection of the appliance is made to check:

• the plug is wired safely
• the correct fuse is fitted
• the flex is the right size
• there is no damage to the plug, flex or appliance
  (e.g. physical damage or from overheating).

If the appliance passes the visual inspection a series of electrical tests are run to determine the integrity of:

• the insulation - which prevents the user from coming into contact with any live parts
• the earth (certain appliances only) - which channels harmful current away from the user to earth

Depending on the type of appliance these tests may include:

• an insulation resistance (or earth leakage test for IT equipment)
• an earth continuity test
• a flex polarity test

For these to be carried out the appliance needs to be unplugged briefly from the mains. Every effort will be made to minimise disruption caused and IT equipment will not be switched off without the user's permission.

Appliances that are in safe working order are discreetly labelled with a ‘Pass' sticker. This shows the date the test was carried out and when a retest is due.

If an appliance fails the tests because of an incorrect fuse or plug wiring, or from damage to the plug, it will be repaired and retested. If the appliance fails on more serious grounds it will be clearly labelled as a ‘Fail', taken out of service and noted on a separate report.