Using your multifunction tester to do PAT testing

[darking]

I made my own adapter using an extension socket connected to three 4mm test leads that I plug into my multifunction tester. I can do insulation resistance continuity polarity which are the basic tests, and though 200mA is called a soft test, if its good enough for an installation then why not for an appliance?

The standard for pat testing allows the use of other instruments, although it says that a pat tester may be easier to use. my adapter cost me a few pounds and has paid me well. I also made a 110v and 230v bayonet adapter that plug into my meter. Why pay for and carry two testers when one can do everything?

I have asked ECA, NICEIC, NAPIT and they all say that my method is acceptable, provided that I keep my tester calibrated with the adapters provided for examination when I send it in

 

[i=p/u]

earth continuity/ imsulation resistance/ fuctional checks is the minimum and i for sure will be using one of these devices too..

 

[sparkinlee]

Brilliant, just bought one!

You must have bought the last one - it's out of stock now!

 

[72-van]

I have used pat testers for many years starting with older machines where you had to record the results on a paper carbon duplicating sheet and i can assure you that unless you are only gonna do a few tests for the odd customer then the best way to go is with a modern pat tester as the speed efficiency and ability to download straight into a report generating database program is well well worth the cash or perhaps find a good pat guy in your area and sub the wee jobs to him.

I dont think i would like to use one of these dongle types regularly but i can see the advantage of them for a very rare occasion .Just as i have a MFT for the testing of ""fixed equipment"" such as hand driers ,wall mounted heaters,etc as inferred in cop ..

72-van

 

[darking]

Well, yes my first pat tester was a Claire. £1000 for a big box and a ton of kit. As I said in another link I do Daywork pricing, not unit pricing so I get a decent days wage for giving a completed folder containing properly filled out model sheets (V1 etc) and an introductory page advising on user checks etc, which makes a full impressive looking ring bound folder.

The last bloke I did work for paid me for my two days work, then showed me a copy of the last guys hit and run pat test results, all his kit on a single page with a single line for each unit. That guy paid me four times as much as he paid the previous tester, but was well impressed with the product that he got from me and has referred more work from his business contacts to me.

People are getting wise to the scammers and when they see someone doing the job thoroughly they realise that you get what you pay for

 

[Mike Johnson]

Sound like fee justification paperwork, is that really the way forward, come across this with the Construction Phase Information put together by the Health and Safety Co-ordinator under the CDM Regulations, the information needed is hidden amongst the padding.