Portable appliance testing (PAT) is well known to most people who own a business. It is the process whereby all the portable electric appliances a business owns are tested to ensure they meet high standards of safety.
Who Can Perform PAT Tests?
A PAT test can be performed by anyone with a PAT testing machine. However, it is usually advised that the work is carried out by a qualified electrical engineer. The reasons for this are twofold: first, the work will be completed in a substantially quicker time; secondly, any repairs that may be required can be organised and dealt with as quickly as possible.
What Is a PAT Test Certificate?
Typically, once a PAT test has been carried out on an appliance a sticker will be placed on its surface to show it has been tested. To supplement this, it is important to have a log or certificate showing the details of testing. Forms of record may vary from a simple handwritten note to a personalised printed certificate.
The minimum details any PAT testing certificate/ record should contain are:
- The details of the site that has been tested
- An entry for each appliance along with whether it has passed or failed
- Individual re-test dates
- The details of the person or company that performed the test
Why Do I Need a PAT Test Certificate?
By keeping a record of all of these details it gives the company or individual the added security of knowing that they are taking precautions to ensure the safety of their equipment. Not only does this make sure equipment runs smoothly and doesn’t hurt anyone, but it can also help in the event of an insurance claim, as PAT test certificates serve as proof of compliance with health and safety regulations.
