Assessing the frequency of PAT testing


The frequency of inspection & testing required will vary depending on the following.

  • The environment – Equipment in a benign environment is likely to suffer less damage than equipment in an arduous environment.

  • The users – If users report damage promptly hazards will be avoided. Conversely, if equipment is likely to receive unreported abuse, more frequent inspection & testing is required.

  • The equipment construction – The safety of Class 1 equipment is dependent upon a connection with earth. Class 2 equipment is not dependent upon a fixed earth.

  • The equipment type – Appliances that are hand-held are more likely to be damaged than fixed appliances.

The following table provides guidance on the initial frequencies of inspection & testing. However, the frequency must depend upon the factors listed above and should be kept under constant review.

The IEE Suggested Initial Frequency of Inspection & Testing (PAT Testing) of Class 1 Equipment.
Type of premises Type of equipment Formal visual inspection Combined inspection & testing
Offices & Shops Stationary equipment 24 months

48 months

IT equipment 24 months 48 months
Movable equipment 12 months 24 months
Portable equipment 12 months 24 months
Hand-held equipment 6 months 12 months
Hotels Stationary equipment 24 months 48 months
IT equipment 24 months 48 months
Movable equipment 12 months 24 months
Portable equipment 12 months 24 months
Hand-held equipment 6 months 12 months
Equipment used by the public Stationary equipment Monthly 12 months
IT equipment Monthly 12 months
Movable equipment Weekly 6 months
Portable equipment Weekly 6 months
Hand-held equipment Weekly 6 months
Industrial including commercial kitchens Stationary equipment None 12 months
IT equipment None 12 months
Movable equipment Monthly 6 months
Portable equipment Monthly 6 months
Hand-held equipment Monthly 6 months
Schools Stationary equipment None
12 months
IT equipment None 12 months
Movable equipment 4 months 12 months
Portable equipment 4 months 12 months
Hand-held equipment 4 months 12 months
Construction sites 110V equipment Stationary equipment Monthly 3 months
IT equipment Monthly 3 months
Movable equipment Monthly 3 months
Portable equipment Monthly 3 months
Hand-held equipment Monthly 3 months

 

The information on this page is provided by Plugtest Ltd - For further information on our UK Portable Appliance Testing PAT service please visit our main page at www.plugtest.co.uk

 

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