Glossary

What is PAT?

PAT stands for the Portable Appliance Testing.

Portable Appliance Testing, in-service inspection and testing of electrical equipment under the IET Code of Practice, on a risk-based frequency.

PAT is the in-service inspection and testing of portable and transportable electrical equipment to confirm it is safe to use. It is carried out under the IET Code of Practice on a risk-based frequency rather than a fixed legal interval.

Combined visual inspection and electrical testing identify faults that a user check would miss, and each appliance is recorded with its result and next-due date.

Questions

PAT, answered.

What does PAT stand for?

PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing, the inspection and testing of electrical equipment in use.

Is PAT a legal requirement?

There is no law that mandates a fixed PAT interval. The legal duty is to maintain electrical equipment so it is safe; PAT is a common way to meet it, on a risk-based frequency.

How often should PAT be done?

On a risk-based frequency set by the duty holder, taking account of the equipment type and environment, following the IET Code of Practice.

References

PAT: official sources

Links to primary UK legislation and official regulator guidance. CertFlow is independent and not affiliated with these bodies.

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