PAT Testing

Provided by Down to Earth Electrical

We offer a friendly, efficient and reliable PAT Testing service for your workplace.

Our service includes your own PAT Testing file which has everything you need to prove that you are maintaining your electrical equipment. In it are all your test records, your Equipment and Faulty Registers, a summary of our visit and your future PAT testing due dates. There is also useful information about PAT Testing and a handy User Check poster to display in your workplace.

We are also pleased to offer a Drop & Collect service, ideal for if you only have a few items or if you’re a tradesman and you need your items throughout the day.

Here’s how it works: You drop your item(s) that need testing to us, we carry out the necessary tests and then you collect your item(s) in the morning - simple and convenient! Please email us for a free quote and we’ll be happy to help.

FAQ's

What does PAT Testing stand for?
Portable Appliance Testing.

Why do I need to get my portable appliances tested?
PAT Testing is an important part of any health & safety policy. 25% of all reportable electrical accidents involve portable appliances! The Electricity at Work Regulations place a legal responsibility on employers, employees and self-employed persons to comply with the regulations and take reasonably practicable steps to ensure that no danger results from the use of such equipment.

What items are classed as portable appliances?
A portable appliance is defined as 'any electrical item which can or is intended, to be moved whilst connected to an electrical supply.' Some examples are; kettle, toaster, hand tools, vacuum cleaner, washing machine, IT equipment, heater and air conditioning units.

Who is responsible for getting items PAT Tested?
Employers, managers, landlords and self employed tradesmen are all responsible for ensuring any appliances are PAT tested.

How often do items need to be tested?
This depends on the type of appliance and also on the environment it is used in. Some appliances require a test every month or some only need testing once a year, or even anything up to 4 years.

What happens when an item is tested?
The item, the cable and the plug (inside and out) are thoroughly inspected, this is the Formal Visual Inspection. Any minor problems can normally be rectified, if the problem is more serious than the item will fail. If the item passes this part then it will be plugged into the PAT Tester and tested for Earth Continuity(if a Class I) and Insulation Resistance. The tester will indicate a PASS or FAIL result. If it passes a pass label is applied with the next test due date on it in. If it fails, a do not use label (or similar) is applied. It will be brought to your attention and should be then taken out of service and either repaired or replaced.

What record is kept of the test?
The test results are recorded by Down to Earth Electrical and a hard copy supplied to you for your records. This record can also be emailed to you if you wish.

What happens if an appliance fails?
If an appliance fails due to a damaged plug cover, incorrect or no fuse, or exposed wires, Down to Earth Electrical can rectify these there and then for a small cost and then re-test the item for free. If the appliance is faulty then a fail sticker will be placed on the appliance and it should then be taken out of use and either repaired or replaced.

What is the Drop & Collect Service?
Down to Earth Electrical are pleased to offer a Drop & Collect service to our customers. This means you can drop an item(s) off to us and then collect it when it has been tested (usually within 1 working day) This is especially useful if you only have a couple of items or if you need to use the item during your normal working day eg. Hand tool. This service also means you can have your items PAT tested at a time that is convenient for you.

How much does it cost?
Costs vary depending on how many items need testing and also if you are using the Drop & Collect service. Please email us for a free quote.