Electrical testing: PAT Testing & Periodic Inspection & Testing

Do you know the difference between PAT Testing and Electrical Testing, do you get confused by the two disciplines? Are you competent to carry out these tasks? Do you need appropriate training?   To ensure domestic electrical installations, wiring and electrical appliances are safe, they can be tested. There are different types of electrical testing, depending on the requirements: PAT Testing (or Portable Appliance Testing) focuses on freestanding electrical appliances, powered via a plug and socket (toasters, laptops etc.) Periodic Inspection and Testing covers regular testing of electrical installations to check they are still safe.  

PAT Testing

Portable Appliance Testing PAT) is required to ensure electrical appliances are safe to use. Equipment is tested visually and using a PAT tester, both methods must be employed to ensure safety.   PAT testing is required in tenanted properties, public buildings, such as schools, and places of work. Formal visual inspection and testing by a competent person is recommended at appropriate intervals, depending on the appliance and the environment. For example, a power tool used on a construction site should be examined more frequently than a lamp in a hotel bedroom.  

Who can carry out PAT Testing?

PAT testing must be carried out by someone with the correct knowledge and skill, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be an electrician. We provide PAT Testing training, to ensure those responsible can complete this task safely and effectively.  

Periodic Inspection and Testing

Periodic Inspection and Testing is designed to ensure electrical installations remain safe and in good working order. All electrical installations deteriorate with age and use, so should be inspected and tested at regular intervals, particularly in rented properties or public buildings, to ensure they meet the standards of the 17^th Edition Wiring Regulations. You may also carry out a Periodic Inspection and Testing when someone moves house, for example.  

A periodic inspection will:

• Reveal if any of your electrical circuits or equipment are overloaded
• Find any potential electric shock risks and fire hazards
• Identify any defective electrical work
• Highlight any lack of earthing or bonding
• Tests are also carried out on wiring and fixed electrical equipment to check that they are safe and a schedule of circuits is also provided.

  Once a Periodic Inspection and Testing has been completed the homeowners is issued with an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).   It is recommended that Periodic Inspection and Testing is carried out every 10 years in an owner occupied home, and every five years in a rented home. Caravans should be inspected every three years and swimming pools once a year.  

Who can carry out PAT Testing?

To carry out Periodic Inspection and Testing and provide the necessary EICR, you must be an electrician. An example of the skills required include sufficient knowledge and experience of electrical installations and an understanding of the 17^th Edition Wiring Regulations, specifically those relating to inspecting, testing and reporting.   We provide Periodic Inspection and Testing training, 18^th Edition courses and also Domestic Electrical Installer training.   If you carry out electrical testing as part of your role, or need electrical testing training, click here for our range of electrical courses.