Do you get a certificate for PAT Testing?

Every business should know just how important regular PAT testing is. It not only keeps your essential electrical equipment in order but it also keeps your staff safe in case of electrical emergencies. But, how do you know when an item has passed its PAT testing?

It’s quite simple, there will be a PAT test certificate given to the business. PAT testing is vital for businesses to function safely. If you are unsure what PAT testing is, then let us explain for you in more detail.

PAT testing is otherwise known as Portable Appliance Testing. The tests are carried out on all kinds of electrical appliances such as computers, kettles and even extension leads. PAT testing ensures that all electrical appliances are in working order and place no risk to the people or staff members using the items.

How is a PAT test carried out?

There are two parts to a PAT test. The first step is to carry out a visual inspection of the appliances. If everything looks to be in working order, the next step is to use the specialised PAT equipment for a more thorough inspection.

During the inspection, many different aspects of the appliances will be tested. These can include earth continuity, lead polarity, and insulation resistance. The tests can be carried out quicker than you may initially think.

What is the outcome of the test in the event you pass?

Once your appliances have been fully tested, they will either pass or fail. If your appliances happen to pass, this is great news. The PAT tester will now issue a certificate to your business to prove that all of your appliances have been tested and have passed.

As well as this, individual appliance stickers can be placed onto your appliances to show the date of the testing and when the next test should be carried out. This is a great way for your business to keep everything up to date.

How do you know that you are compliant?

When it comes down to being compliant, you need to know that PAT testing is not a legal requirement for businesses. However there are regulations put in place by the government to maintain electrical appliances. This is best done through PAT testing.

The regulations that a business must be compliant with include:

• Health and Safety at Work Act (1974)
• The Electricity at Work Regulations (1989)
• The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (1998)
• The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (1999)

If you are found to not be compliant with any of the above regulations, you and your business could face fines and even imprisonment. Fines can range heavily from up to £5000 and in some extreme cases, you could face fines of £20,000. Also, you could face imprisonment from 6 months to 2 years.

Even though it may not be a legal requirement, you and your business should take PAT testing seriously. PAT testing allows any defects to be highlighted straight away and could save your business from exposing any potential hazards.

When does the certificate expire?

PAT test certificates do not have a specific expiration date. As they are not a legal requirement, it is mainly down to the company’s discretion. However, we like to recommend businesses get their portable electrical appliances tested every 24-48 months.

For moveable equipment, we like to recommend a PAT test to be carried out every 24 months. This could include appliances such as extension leads. However, when it comes to Class 1 equipment, you can be a little bit more lenient. For items such as IT equipment, you should consider a PAT test every 48 months.

For these types of electrical appliances, the periods between PAT tests are ideal. The tests will ensure that the appliances are in working order and are operating as safely as possible. Once your appliances have been tested and have passed, you will be given a PAT test certificate.

The good news is that at AMS Solutions, we are here to help you out with any of your PAT testing needs. We are a Manchester-based team and can book you in at an agreed and competitive rate.

For more information, please contact us on 01204 216 955 or click here to find out more about the PAT testing we can offer your business.