frequency of PAT

[telectrix]

as title. i don't do a lot of PAT, got 2377 years ago and have recently come across a few sites ( offices ) where previous testers have stipulated next test due in 12 months on everything. now, iv'e lost my notes, but seem to remember that frequently moved items ( kettles, vacs., etc.),are generally OK for annual tests, due to the nature of their use, but items like PC's etc., that hardly ever get disturbed would only warrant 2 yearly or even 5 yearly intervals between tests. IMO blanketing all items as annual reeks of work creation. can anyone confirm if i am correct or not? bearing in mind that frequency of testing is, IMO, down to the tester's judgement.

 

[telectrix]

Still works out cheaper for the average office to do all items once a year

They end up paying minimum charge or inflated prices otherwise

agreed, often more ecomomical that way. however, the one office iv'e got on this week is 90% IT and i can do the 12 monthly items in conjunction with a visit to replace half a dozen florry tubes, so cutting the cost to the client.

 

[ringer]

Note that the COP give periods for INITIAL frequency. It is up to the competent person doing the testing to recommend a suitable period before the next test. Must admit, I tend to do blanket annual period. The very first job I did, I applied the COP periods, and then next year it was a nightmare establishing which appliances should be fully tested and which ones should be visual only. It is far easier to just test everything. I make sure the client understands this before I start.

 

[cbw]

All that aside.......I HATE doing it, got to make it worth the boredom!!!