PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing but for unknown reasons is mostly known as PAT Testing. There is no really a law saying this test must happen and how often needs to be done. You can see the recommended intervals here depending the type of the premises but the 12 monthly is the most common.
Although PAT Testing is not legally required on its own, it’s a very good way for businesses and landlords in Kent to remain complaint with their insurance policies and relevant regulations to their profession, ie taking all reasonable steps to ensure no harm will happen to a tenant, an employ and any other user of a specific equipment. In sorts, with PAT Testing you are making sure you are complaint with other statutory regulations.
Fires caused my faulty electrical appliances, cooking appliances more specifically, is the most common cause of house fires in the UK accounting for 46% of them! All of us remember the tragic consequences of the Grenfell fire not that long ago in London which it seems to started by an electrical fault to a fridge freezer in one of the flats.
Alongside with regular visual check from the user, annual PAT Testing by a professional is one of the best ways to minimise the chances of such a fire to happen.
Nothing is made to last forever isn’t it? But we can take reasonable step to make them last for the longest possible time. During a PAT Test in any of my Kent based clients we will try to identify repairable defects and rectify them. If the defect can’t be repaired then we will advice the client accordingly.
Checking the size for the fuse inside the plug we also contribute to the equipments longevity and safety of the user. An oversized fused won’t blow at the right time which can cause the cable to overheat and melt.
PAT Testing will reduce downtime in business because an appliances or piece of equipment became faulty and stopped working. It’s not uncommon during testing a certain piece of equipment to give very low readings showing us that it won’t be long before it fails completely. This way our client can arrange for a replacement sooner than later.
PAT Testing will contribute to a business’ professional stance. It will show that you care for your customers’ safety and well being which will increase confidence to your brand.
In case of an insurance claim, one of the things the insurance company will ask to see is proof of compliance with safety standards. It’s also very possible that this will be a policy requirement. PAT Testing will make sure you tick this box.
Last but not least, perhaps one of the most important benefits of PAT testing is the peace of mind it offers. Knowing that your electrical equipment has undergone the required inspections and is deemed safe can reduce concerns and anxiety related to potential electrical hazards. Whether you're a homeowner, a business owner, or an employee working in a safe environment, PAT testing provides reassurance that every precaution has been taken to prevent electrical accidents.
