In this post we’ll discuss what PAT testing entails for Irish businesses and answer the most common questions about it. With over 30 years experience in providing electrical services, electrical safety audits and PAT Testing to Irish businesses we hope the below will answer any questions you have about PAT testing.
What Does PAT Testing Stand For?
PAT Testing stands for Portable Appliance Testing and it is an important part in maintaining workplace health and safety with regards to electrical appliances. PAT Testing is an annual requirement for business owners.
Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement in Ireland?
Portable appliance testing (PAT) is now required by law in Ireland for businesses and employers to comply with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2007 S.I. 299. This legislation is particularly significant, not only for maintaining safe conditions for employees in working environments and inspection by the HSA, but also for insurance purposes, as insurers require certifications of compliance in accordance with the Work Act of 2007.
What is PAT Testing?
PAT testing is a straightforward and expedient process to maintain when carried out by trained professionals. PAT Testing certification is granted to individuals in Ireland following their completion of a specialised course which covers current health and safety legislation, practical elements of electrical practices and applied use of PAT testing equipment.
How Long Does a PAT Test Last?
PAT Testing in the workspace takes a qualified technician with their equipment about two minutes per device (but can be up to five depending on the object and its accessibility). This can be easily done during or before/after working hours to suit the needs of business, educational or residential spaces.
What Should be PAT Tested
Appliances in workspaces and schools that require PAT testing are defined as an electrical item which are outfitted with an electrical plug and include (but are not limited to):
- computers
- monitors
- laptops
- shredders
- scanners
- portable charging devices
- printers
- kitchen equipment
- construction equipment
Do White Goods Need PAT Testing?
As mentioned above, when it comes to PAT testing pretty much anything with a plug be tested and so if you have white goods in your business then they will also need to be PAT Testing.
How Often is PAT Testing Required?
PAT testing is an annual process; however, some appliances may require more or less frequent maintenance depending on the age and usage of the device. These devices are noted by a trained technician and communicated to a client in an issued report, which can then be referred to in maintaining and demonstrating safety compliance. However, the majority of devices require an annual inspection with a technician to ensure that there are no possible faults which could increase the risk of electrical fire and endanger the safety and well-being of employees in the workspace.
How to PAT Test?
While anyone can simply look at a plug on a device and notice any external wear and tear, a PAT test is completed using specialized equipment to locate possible faults and internal issues which are not only dangerous, but can also prolong and maintain the efficiency of the device when tested regularly. It is also of importance to note that the majority of devices which fail a PAT test during a routine inspection are quickly repaired by technicians on site, avoiding future failure of the appliance and possible business delays. However, any device which cannot be repaired directly will be stored with a client in a ‘quarantine’ space as per legislation until it can safely be used again. All devices which have passed testing will also be labelled during the process to reflect their last inspection.
Who Can do PAT Testing?
To have appliances PAT tested and a certificate of compliance issued it is important to contact a certified electrical company or technician to schedule an annual inspection. Likewise, it is important to communicate to the service provider how many units need to be tested, as this will assist in developing a quote which reflects the number of units and buildings requiring testing.
What is PAT Testing Certification?
Once technicians have completed their testing process, the employer will receive their PAT testing certificate for insurance and liability purposes, in addition to a full report issued by the PAT technician.
PAT Testing Service Ireland
Here at PAT.ie we are one of the leading providers of qualified and accredited PAT testing in Ireland and have over 30 years of experience in providing electrical services and PAT Testing to businesses. Give us a call now on +35319602636 or contact us online for more info about our PAT Testing service.
