PAT Testing

Types of Electrical Appliances

It is usual for this equipment to be connected to the supply via a plug and socket, however this is not a requirement for electrical equipment to be deemed portable or transportable. It is common to define a portable appliance by saying that it is 'anything with a plug top on the end of it'. This is a mistake as it may mean that there are some appliances in the system that are never tested.

The National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers define a portable appliance as 'any electrical item which can or is intended to be moved whilst connected to an electrical supply.'

The IEE Code of Practice gives guidance on the various equipment types:

Portable Appliances

An appliance of less than 18kg in mass that is intended to be moved while in operation, or an appliance which can easily be move from one place to another such as a toaster, food mixer, vacuum cleaner, toaster, food mixer etc.

Moveable Equipment (transportable)

This is equipment which is either 18kg or less and not fixed such as electric fire, or equipment with wheels or other means to facilitate movement by the operator as required to perform its intended use, such as an air conditioning unit

Handheld Appliances

This is portable equipment intended to be held in the hand during normal use, such as hair dryer, drill, soldering iron.

Stationary Equipment

This equipment has a mass exceeding 18kg and is not provided with a carrying handle, such as a refrigerator, washing machine

Fixed Equipment

This is equipment which is fastened to a support or otherwise secured in a specified location, such as a bathroom heater, towel rail

IT Equipment

IT equipment includes electrical business equipment such as computers and mains powered telecommunications equipment, and other equipment for general business use such as mail processing machines, VDU's photo-copiers.

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