Portable Appliance Testing FAQ
Q: What is classed as a portable appliance?
A: A portable appliance is ‘any electrical item which can or is intended, to be moved whilst connected to an electrical supply.’
Q: Why do I need my portable appliances testing?
A: The most important reasons for carrying out Portable Appliance Testing are:
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To comply with the Electricity At Work Regulations
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Risk of fire and injury due to faulty electrical equipment is minimised
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Insurance companies cannot dispute claims for damage through fire because of insufficient electrical maintenance
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The ISO 9000 Quality Assurance Standard requires all companies to comply with the Health and Safety requirements, portable appliance testing as provided by Safety-PAT, is required to comply with this standard.
Q: What happens if an appliance fails?
A: Faults can often be repaired on the spot. For example minor faults such as, poor wiring within the plug, damage to cables. Any faults of a greater nature will be discussed with the individual responsible, to see what should be done next. We want to keep your appliances in service so when we PAT TEST we’ll do our best to repair.
Q: Who tests our equipment?
A: Your equipment will be tested on site by a Safety-PAT engineer who are all trained and fully qualified to City & Guilds 2377 standard. Our engineers are always smartly dressed, respectful and properly cleared for security conscious organisations.
Q: Is there any disruption caused by electrical testing?
A: Because all our engineers have in-depth experience and up-to-date training they are able to test your equipment correctly and quickly, ensuring minimal disruption to you, your staff and your workplace.
Q: What do we receive when testing is completed?
A: Full documentation on completion of testing which will comprise of:
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Asset Register
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Overall Pass Certificate
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Overall Fail Certificate (if applicable)
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Detailed Test results
Q: How will I know when testing is due again?
A: Following a brief conversation with one of our technical advisors you will be given guidance on the appropriate periods between electrical testing. Testing reminders are issued automatically by Safety-PAT 1 month prior to retesting.