PAT Testing

Ever since the introduction of Portable Appliance Testing (commonly known as PAT Testing) Techniserve have been providing a fast and efficient service in line with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 in Sheffield and Leeds and all surrounding areas.

These regulations state that any electrical equipment that has the potential to cause injury is maintained in a safe condition, and a regular system of testing ensures this. There are no specifications for how regular the testing should be, and each type of equipment may have a different requirement in terms of testing frequency, Techniserve can advise on this because it is essential for an employer to show that PAT Testing has been carried out and that a system is in place to ensure the on-going safety of portable appliances used by its employees.

Our PAT Testing Service

• Will increase the electrical safety of your workplace.
• Same day electronic appliance report and certificate issued.
• Work carried out with minimal disruption to suit your business.
• Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) for all appliance types and locations.
• Competitive rates, with discount for higher volume sites.
• All work fully compliant with Health and Safety Regulations and legislation.

Three Common Myths

On our travels we often encounter questions and myths about PAT testing, the three most common are..

1. PAT Testing is a legal requirement. It isn't.. BUT.. The regulations state that portable electrical equipment must be maintained in a safe condition, so that IS a legal requirement, and the only way to comply with that is to carry out PAT Testing and establish an appropriate schedule. So whilst PAT testing in itself isn't legally required it's the only way to ensure compliance with the regulations.

2. Tested equipment must be labelled. Not true, it's not a legal requirement - but it would be slightly bonkers not to label tested equipment. A label will identify the equipment with a unique ID and show the date it was tested. A label and/or a register is an extremely useful management tool and demonstrates that a system is in place to ensure the safety of company equipment.

3. Anyone can do PAT Testing. Not really. In some low-risk environments a competent and trained employee with sufficient knowledge (i.e. not just 'anybody') could carry out visual inspections and maintain a testing register. But combined testing and inspections will require the use of the correct testing equipment and the individual will need to be able to use the equipment properly and understand the results.