If you’re looking to start a pat test company, it’s important to understand what’s involved. Whether you’re an electrician looking to add this skill to your arsenal, or someone who wants to run their own business, PAT testing is a vitally important part of how businesses operate today. It’s also a great way to stay safe and help your customers, employees or tenants do the same.

We enjoy high levels of safety at work in the UK thanks to legislation like the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, and the emphasis on routine inspection and maintenance. The best way to ensure your electrical equipment is in a good condition is by conducting regular PAT testing. This is how you can be sure the appliances are in a safe condition to use, and that they’ll continue to be so in the future.

PAT Test Company: What to Look for in a Reliable Provider

During a PAT test, a formal visual inspection is carried out. This involves removing the plug cover and examining the equipment for any signs of damage or corrosion. You should also check the wiring connections and fuses, and make sure they’re correctly fitted. The tester will then connect the appliance to a power source, and check the results via an LED screen. Generally, stationary items or IT equipment and those that only go to one place (like televisions and kettles) are considered low risk, so they don’t need to be tested as often as those that move around (such as hand-held appliances or extension leads).

For higher-risk appliances, there may be other tests you’ll need to carry out, including insulation resistance and leakage current tests. These will be dependent on the class of the appliance, and they’ll need to be carried out before the appliance can be deemed as safe to use.