How can I stay compliant after initial certification?
Regular refresher training. This is typically every 3-5 years or when guidance/standards are updated, whichever is soonest.
What qualifications do I need to carry out PAT testing?
While no formal qualifications are required, personnel involved with the inspection and testing of equipment should be competent to carry out the necessary work. Training, including regular update training, would form part of this required competence.
Is PAT testing a legal requirement offshore?
The UK Electricity at Work Regulations, Regulation 4 paragraph 2, make it a legal requirement to maintain equipment to prevent danger, regular inspection and testing would be part of this maintenance activity. The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides guidance on offshore health and safety, including the need for employers to control risks and […]
Does cordless or battery-operated equipment need PAT testing?
Yes – The battery-operated equipment should be inspected, and the battery charging equipment should be inspected and tested.
What is PAT testing and why is it important?
PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is the inspection and electrical testing of equipment to ensure its continued safe use.
What records must I keep after PAT testing?
How long does it take to become certified in PAT testing?
EPIT’s City and Guilds approved In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment course (PAT Testing) is delivered over two days with a mix of theory and practical training and assessments.
What does typical PAT inspection involve?
How often should PAT testing be carried out?
This depends on many factors, e.g. the environment the equipment’s used in, the equipment type, the frequency of equipment’s use, the equipment’s previous inspection and test records. A documented risk assessment should be carried out on each item of equipment to determine the frequency of inspection and testing required.
Who is responsible for PAT testing?
Under the UK Health and Safety at Work Act and Electricity at Work Regulations, employers (or duty-holders) have a legal requirement to maintain equipment to prevent danger, regular inspection and testing would be part of this maintenance activity.