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The main methods of recording are using a paper based ‘Portable Appliance Register’ which requires manual input, a spreadsheet format which will also require a manual input, or an electronic database which can provide a range of PAT testing reports and supports an automatic download facility. There are commercial Portable Appliance Registers such as the Kewtech PATLOG 1. There are...

Choosing a PAT tester - particularly for those new to the industry - can be a daunting process. With several models available, all with different capabilities and functions, how do you choose which one is right for you? It's extremely important to consider your options before jumping in and buying a PAT tester. There's little point in buying a high-end...

If you mean fixed wiring testing, it is very different to PAT testing. Fixed wiring testing comes under the 17th edition fixed wiring regulations and involves testing the fixed wiring installation in a building using an Earth Loop Tester, an RCD Trip Tester and an Insulation Tester, none of which can be used to test portable appliances. However, Kewtech produce...

There is a suggested frequency of testing and the type of appliance is one of the factors taken into account.  There are four factors; the environment,  the users, the equipment construction (Class I, Class II, Class III etc) and the equipment type (Hand Held, Portable, IT, Moveable or Stationary).  The suggested frequency of testing chart and supporting notes are on...

Because PAT Testers have an IEC socket for testing leads and not a cloverleaf socket, you will require an IEC to cloverleaf convertor. You simply plug the cloverleaf cable into the 13 Amp socket on the tester. Then you plug the cloverleaf plug of the lead into the female socket on the adapter, finally plugging the IEC plug of the...

Particularly if you're PAT testing in offices, you're more than likely going to encounter computers as part of your portable appliance testing regime. A computer is an electrical appliance and must be PAT tested. There are, however, several rules to follow when PAT testing a computer as normal testing procedures could result in damage being caused to your IT equipment...

First of all, grab your PAT tester and your kettle. Once that's done, you need to decide what type of kettle you have. Most modern kettles are jug-type kettles. This usually consists of a detachable section where you enter the water (the jug) and a base where the jug is placed. If your kettle is this type, the jug and...

Choosing the right PAT Tester can be tricky if you have only just learned to PAT Test or have been PAT Testing for a while and need to upgrade your old PAT Testing Equipment. The major factors to consider when deciding which PAT testing machine you should invest in are: Your budget Number of appliance tests that you are going...

To test portable appliances you must be a "Competent" person. Page 13 of the IEE Code of Practice defines competency as “A person possessing sufficient knowledge or experience to be capable of ensuring that injury is prevented.  Technical knowledge or experience may include: 1. Adequate knowledge of electricity. 2. Adequate experience of electrical work. 3. Adequate understanding of the system...

Testing extension leads is actually very easy. You will require an adaptor in the form of a short IEC lead (IEC plug one end and a 13A plug on the other). After completing the visual test you plug the 13A plug into the 13A socket on the tester; you then plug the IEC plug of the short IEC lead into...