The Complete Guide to PAT Testing | Regulations, Requirements & Software
Kettles, microwaves, computers, and even fridges are all portable appliances that can pose risks. To ensure they are safe to use in the workplace, businesses can undertake Portable Appliance Testing (or PAT test for short).
In this guide, we’re going to answer all the most commonly asked questions about PAT testing regulations and requirements, explain the differences between different electrical classes, and discuss the best way to complete a PAT test.
To download a PAT Test certificate template or example, click here.
Skip ahead to a specific section:
What is Portable Appliance Testing (PAT Testing)?
Portable Appliance Testing, otherwise known as PAT Testing, is a safety test carried out to check that electrical appliances in the workplace are operating safely.
For some appliances, this only necessitates a visual inspection. However, others need a more detailed test using specialised equipment to check for any electrical faults. PAT testing professionals will judge this based on an appliance’s classification – either 1, 2, or 3.
Any competent person is able to carry out a PAT test. However, this means that there should be a decent level of understanding of electrical equipment and best practices. For this reason, most businesses are recommended to get a professional PAT test completed.
What are the PAT testing regulations in the UK?
PAT Testing plays a crucial part in staying compliant with UK Health and Safety regulations, including the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, which require employers, landlords, and business owners to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition to reduce the risk of electrical hazards, fires, and accidents.
Is PAT testing a legal requirement?
No, PAT testing is not a legal requirement, and there are no regulations about what must be done, how often appliances need to be checked, or what records must be kept.
However, businesses still need to ensure they keep their workplace safe. Professionally-done PAT tests are a great way to prove that due diligence has been carried out:
Should businesses undergo regular PAT tests?
Even though PAT testing is not required by any regulation, businesses have a responsibility to maintain a safe workplace. PAT tests and PAT certificates are an easy way to both ensure appliances are operating safely and provide physical evidence that such measures have been undertaken.
How often should PAT tests be carried out?
This depends on the nature of the workplace and the type of appliances. More dangerous appliances (skip to PAT testing class definitions) should be checked more frequently.
A good rule of thumb is for appliances to be PAT tested annually, unless in a low-risk environment.
How to PAT test
There are 3 steps to any proper PAT test: a basic visual inspection, a formal visual inspection, and electrical testing.
Step 1: Basic Visual Inspection
- Cracked casings
- Frayed cables
- Exposed wires
- Damaged plugs
- Damaged or burned mains sockets
- Environmental hazards
More often than not, step 1 is at least partially carried out by the user and requires no specialist tools or knowledge.
A professional may also undertake a basic visual inspection before moving onto a formal visual inspection. At this time, an inventory of all appliances that need to be tested should be created and checked.
This is easily done with a PAT testing certificate, which can be easily created and issued to customers via the FieldRocket app.
Step 2: Formal Visual Inspection
- Removing the plug cover to inspect the wiring and internal connections
- Verifying that all screws are tightened and no components are loose
- Checking the wiring follows the correct color codes
All findings, including whether a visual inspection has been carried out, should be noted on a PAT testing certificate or record.
Step 3: Electrical Testing
Key tests include:
- Earth Continuity Test: Verifies the integrity of the earth connection to prevent electrical shock.
- Insulation Resistance Test: Measures the quality of the insulation to ensure it can safely contain electrical current.
- Polarity Check: Ensures the wiring connections are correctly configured.
After the tests, the equipment will indicate whether the appliance passes or fails.
If an appliances passes the test, it should be labelled with a PAT test sticker that clearly indicates the test date and next due date for retesting.
↑ A PAT test certificate or log book can be used to record inventories. Download a copy here.
PAT Testing Electrical Classes:
What is the difference between class 1, class 2, and class 3 electrical equipment?
In the UK, electrical appliances are assigned a class based on certain criteria to help users and testers understand their potential risk and determine how often they need to be tested.
PAT testing class 1 definition:
Most class 1 appliances are those that need to be made from metal or another conductive material. They typically have a three-pin plug, with the earth pin playing a crucial role in their safety system.
Common examples of class 1 appliances:
- Kettle
- Toaster
- Fridge / freezer
- Washing machine
PAT testing class 2 definition:
Class 2 electrical appliances are considered safer as they are designed with better insulation, and therefore do not need to rely on an earth connection. The insulation (typically plastic casing) prevents live components from coming into contact with any outer layer.
The difference between class 1 and class 2 electrical appliances is how they ensure safety. Class 1 relies on an earth connection, while class 2 relies on double or reinforced insulation.
Common examples of class 2 appliances:
- Hairdryers
- Electric drills
- Televisions
- Chargers
PAT testing class 3 definition:
Class 3 appliances operate on extra-low voltage, typically below 50V AC or 120V DC, and are considered inherently safe. They are powered by a safety isolating transformer or a battery, ensuring that the user is not exposed to hazardous voltage levels.
Because of how low risk class 3 appliances are, they are not usually PAT tested as frequently.
Common examples of class 3 appliances:
- Lamps
- Laptops
- Cameras
PAT Test Certificate Example
A digital PAT test certificate is a straightforward and professional way to record the results of the test. Here’s an example certificate from FieldRocket:
On your certificate, be sure to include all basic contact details for yourself and your business, your customer, and the site address.
Beyond this, each appliance should have:
- A unique ID
- Make
- Model
- Location
- Visual inspection checkbox
- Fuse rating (A)
- Voltage (V)
- Earth continuity (Ω)
- Instulation resistance (MΩ)
- Touch leakage (mA)
- Polarity
- A final pass/fail mark
Download a free PAT test certificate template from FieldRocket:
By downloading this template you consent to receiving marketing emails from FieldRocket.
…or sign up to FieldRocket to create all electrical certs in one easy-to-use app.
Next steps:
If you’ve been thinking about implementing software into your workflow to save time, here’s what you can do next:
- Visit our resources centre where you'll find more articles like this one and a full list of our certificates.
- Start a free trial to see exactly how our software works for your business.
- Book a demo with our customer success team. We’ll help walk you through the ins and outs of our software, how it’ll help you save time and money, and anything else that springs to mind.
- Know someone still using paper? Help them and us out by sending our software their way!
ELECTRICAL CERT SOFTWARE
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to store only digital copies of records and certificates?
Yes! Any reputable certificate software like FieldRocket will use several modes of backing up your files and keep them accessible even offline.
I’ve been using paper to create certificates. Is the transition from paper to software difficult?
Not at all. You’ll have a date at which you started using software, and any records created after then will be digital. There’s no need to move all of your paper records online. They can be kept as usual until they’re no longer needed.
What kind of certificates can you create using FieldRocket?
FieldRocket has an expansive range of certificates for many industries, including electrical. You can create anything from an EICR to Portable Appliance Testing, Job Sheets, and everything in between. Find out a full list here.
What’s the benefit of having customisable forms?
Customisable forms allow you to add your logos for extra professionalism or create something entirely new to suit your business’ workflow.
What benefit do paperless certificates have for customers?
Using an electrical certificate app helps you keep your records neat, professional, and readable. They’re also highly convenient as they can simply be emailed to your customers in the field.