PAT Testing

Frequency of PAT Inspections

In arriving at a judgement as to the frequency of testing, one is likely to assess the following factors:-

• The environment - equipment installed in a benign environment will suffer less damage than equipment in an arduous environment
  
  
• Users - if the users report damage as and when it becomes evident, hazards will be avoided. Conversely, if equipment is likely to receive unreported abuse, more frequent inspection and testing is required
  
  
• The equipment construction - the safety of a Class 1 appliance is dependant upon a connection with earth of the electrical installation. If the flexible cable is damaged the connection with earth can be lost. Safety of Class 2 equipment is not dependent upon the fixed electrical installation
  
  
• The equipment type - appliances which are hand held are more likely to be damaged than fixed appliances. If they are Class 1 the risk of danger is increased, as the safety is dependant upon the continuity of the protective conductor from the plug to the appliance.

The IEE Code of Practice gives comprehensive information on the frequency of inspection and testing of equipment, such as:

Note+: For some equipment such as children's rides, a daily check may be necessary by supervisory, teacher or member of staff.

The NICEIC gives the following guidelines:

Schools

Rented Accommodation

Offices

Hotels

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