PAT TESTING in KENT, MAIDSTONE, SEVENOAKS & TONBRIDGE

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PAT Testing, or Portable Appliance Testing, involves thorough electrical equipment testing to ensure that appliances are safe to use. We begin with a visual inspection to identify any potential issues, such as exposed wires or burnt cables. Next, we utilize specialized PAT testing equipment to conduct appliance safety checks, evaluating factors like Earth Continuity and insulation resistance. If the appliance passes these tests, it receives a green sticker; a red sticker indicates a failure, while a blue sticker signifies a completed visual inspection. Upon finishing all testing, we provide an appliance register and certification detailing which items have passed or failed, ensuring compliance with safety standards in Kent.

You may have heard of the term PAT testing or, more recently, the term EET Testing, which stands for Electrical Equipment Testing. The new IET 5th Edition Code of Practice for the In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment introduces various changes, including the shift from PAT Testing (Portable Appliance Testing) to EET Testing (Electrical Equipment Testing). 

Despite the transition, the phrase PAT Testing remains widely recognized for electrical testing, as it has been used for many years. However, EET Testing will gradually replace the term PAT testing in the industry. 

If you need appliance safety checks or have questions regarding PAT testing in Kent or EET Testing, get in contact with us for free advice.

Portable Appliance Testing in Surrey (PAT Testing) is a vital component of a Health & Safety policy for your business. The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) reports that 25% of electrical accidents involve portable appliances, highlighting the importance of regular appliance safety checks. According to the Electricity at Work Regulations (EWR), employers and employees share the legal responsibility to comply with these regulations and ensure that all electrical equipment testing is conducted properly, minimizing any potential danger from using electrical equipment.

The Health & Safety at Work Act (1974) places an obligation on employees regarding appliance safety checks when appliances are used, including in public areas such as hotels, hostels, schools, and shops. This applies to situations where appliances are supplied, hired, serviced, or repaired. To comply with these regulations, a systematic and regular programme of maintenance, inspection, and testing of portable appliances, often referred to as Electrical Equipment Testing or PAT testing Kent, is required. Failure to comply can lead to serious consequences, including a fine of £5,000 per non-compliant item, six months' imprisonment, or even manslaughter charges in the event of a death. Landlords should be aware that tenants may also sue for civil damages, while employers could face claims from employees. Additionally, your property insurance or public liability insurance may be rendered invalid if these safety checks are not performed.