PAT Testing - Is it essential.

[UNG]

UNG, I agree, ISITEE is a better way forward...however, the sticker-jockeys can't extend to ISITEE...at 50p a go, how can you expect a proper service, especially for any appliance that doesn't simply plug in?

There is absolutely no reason why they shouldn't inspect and test all appliances no matter how they are connected if that is what they are contracted to do

Of course, there is the argument that fixed wiring is beyond PAT...but then, we have appliances that bridge the gap.

Fixed wiring comes under the EICR, fixed appliances do not and have never been considered to be part of the fixed wiring installation so there is no real and valid argument they are appliances and should be inspected, tested and recorded as such by the company carrying out the PAT

 

[pirate]

I'm in total agreement with you, UNG...I was simply pointing out that some so-called PA Testers won't/can't test any appliance that doesn't have a plug on it...which is just silly.

 

[Doomed]

People often ask why our PAT prices are so high, and we tell them its because we do it properly, the number of times I have found things that have been tested before with faults or incorrect labels on them (bought extension leads that are rated 10A with a 10A pre fitted fuse and the last pat person has written 13A fuse fitted as they have not checked the plug for fuse rating or signs of over heating).
In our area we have a reputation for not being cheap, but when people use us we nearly always get repeat custom.

 

[ruston]

The item may just have a bar code or an item number to refer it to the records, especially if it is part of an in house regime.

 

[pirate]

It takes time, Doomed, I agree with you, often it's clear that the last test was not a proper check at all. Done to a price, not to a safety level.
It takes time to check a 15m extension lead FVI...and that costs money. No point in having the checks/tests done if they are not done properly. A professional should be happy that he/she has left the job having done what was necessary, and not open to criticism. A professional job should mean a professional fee...

 

[ipf]

It can depend, somewhat, on the nature of the client. For instance, I know a couple of DJ's who provide music for various 'do's'. Obviously, some of their clients, or insurance, insist on some form of paperwork to ensure electrical safety of equipment. One old chap, in his 80's, teaches ball room dancing in a few clubs......two items and a lead....but says he has to have them tested, regularly.
I do it as a favour but I always seem to find a tenner stuck in my tester box.

 

[oracle]

If you provide electrical equipment to the public or your employees you are legally required that it's safe to use, including any training required .
You are also required to have it maintained, but each appliance may have a different environment, domestic, commercial or industrial. A written risk assessment will assist you in deciding the frequency of maintenance including the testing

 

[Nigel]

Every year is OTT .............. but some scam PAT testers state its a requirement ........ which it isn't

Depends on the circumstamces.

 

[Nigel]

Nobody pat tests any more, the big hotel chains don't even do it, every penny is a prisoner and a profit

We PA Test about 10,000 items per year.

 

[Pete999]

You're obliged under Electricity at Work Regulations (I believe, someone will correct me if I'm wrong I'm sure) to ensure the safety of your staff and members of the public who enter your premises.

A PAT testing regime can help demonstrate you're fulfilling your duties by ensuring the portable equipment is safe for continued use. Without PAT testing records, if the unthinkable happened and someone was injured or killed as a result of an electrical fault, it could be argued that you've been negligent.

The same goes for the fixed wiring and equipment of any premises you're responsible for where business is conducted. This is why it is recommended that you have an electrical installation condition report produced periodically (the recommended periods vary depending on the type and use of the premises).

I concur.

 

[Pete999]

You're obliged under Electricity at Work Regulations (I believe, someone will correct me if I'm wrong I'm sure) to ensure the safety of your staff and members of the public who enter your premises.

A PAT testing regime can help demonstrate you're fulfilling your duties by ensuring the portable equipment is safe for continued use. Without PAT testing records, if the unthinkable happened and someone was injured or killed as a result of an electrical fault, it could be argued that you've been negligent.

The same goes for the fixed wiring and equipment of any premises you're responsible for where business is conducted. This is why it is recommended that you have an electrical installation condition report produced periodically (the recommended periods vary depending on the type and use of the premises).

Have you been on a Electrical Trainee course for lawyering SC? sorry for the spelling error.

 

[ipf]

We PA Test about 10,000 items per year.

Always took you for a boring beggar, Neil....