Why PAT Has Changed Its Name?

When it comes to electrical safety, you may be familiar with the “PAT” or Portable Appliance Testing. But have you heard of “EET”?

If not, you may be surprised to learn that PATs are no more and have been replaced with EETs, an acronym for Electrical Equipment Testing. If you’re wondering why and what your obligations are for electrical safety checks on your appliances, you’re in the right place. Here we’ll uncover what is difference between a PAT and an EET as well as what you need to know about electrical safety checks.

What is PAT Testing?

Portable Appliance Testing, known as PAT testing for short, is an inspection to ensure portable equipment and appliances are safe to use. PAT tests are not a legal requirement but as the law states that any electrical equipment in the workplace must be maintained, safe and not pose any danger, PAT testing is a recommended way of ensuring this. It also helps to identify any hazards and safety risks, protecting the users of your equipment as well as your property.

Has PAT Testing changed?

The phrase “PAT Testing” has been replaced by the new term“Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment” (ITEE) which is also known as Electrical Equipment Testing (EET). Essentially, the requirements and process of the testing remain the same as PAT Testing but the change in name was designed to eliminate any confusion around what needs to be tested.

Why has PAT changed to EET?

There was concern that people thought PAT testing only applied to a limited range of items due to the use of the words “portable” and “appliance” in the title.

Firstly, by using the word “portable”, it could be assumed that the tests were only required for small portable items such as laptops, toasters, televisions and so on. Similarly, by using the word “appliance”, this could also give the impression the tests are for smaller items only and as well as being associated with white goods rather than for a wide range of equipment of any size.

The fact is these electrical safety tests are conducted on any item of electrical equipment which is connected to the mains supply via a plug, no matter how big.

Therefore, by renaming the tests EETs, it was hoped that people would understand the wider scope of the tests and ensure they were getting all necessary equipment tested.

However, the term PAT Testing is still in widespread use across the industry and amongst business and consumers, so you’ll still see and hear it used. It doesn’t matter which phrase you say, it means the same.

What needs to be tested in an EET?

Any piece of equipment which is plugged into the mains supply is covered by EET Testing. This can range from small office items such as phone chargers, plug adaptors and computers to white goods including kettles, microwaves, dishwashers. Even if the item isn’t portable and is hard wired or integrated, it still needs testing if it is plugged into a power source and runs off mains electricity. This includes vending machines, refrigerators and even larger industrial equipment.

Battery-operated and cordless equipment does not need to be PAT Tested as it is not running off the mains supply. However, the chargers for items which are plugged in would.

You don’t necessarily need to give brand new equipment a full PAT Test as it should be supplied in a safe, working order. For this, a visual check is recommended rather than the full manual check outlined below.

What happens in an EET?

The first aspect of a test is a visual inspection to look for any signs of damage or issues. This could include cracks on the plug, incorrect or loose wiring, exposed wire or any abrasions to wiring as well as any signs of damage to the appliance itself. Look out for discolouration, scorch or burn marks or anything that looks out of the ordinary.

Any RCDs should also be inspected for damage with the operating current checked and to ensure the ‘test’ button is still in working order. The visual check can also extend to an environmental check, looking for hazards from cables, overloaded sockets along with any potential fire hazards and water risks.

Following the visual check, a manual examination can be carried out by a trained professional with the right equipment, including a specialist portable appliance tester device. The test will include the equipment’s earth continuity, lead polarity and insulation resistance.

What happens if equipment fails an EET?

An item which fails an EET test must immediately be taken out of use and removed before either being repaired or replaced. If repairs can be made, it must undergo a further test to ensure it passes before being used.

Why do I need an EET?

It is the law for employers to make sure electrical equipment is safe, not posing any risk to those that use it. This is set out in the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. In addition, ensuring electrical equipment is safe also falls under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974which sets out the duty of employers to ensure the health, safety and welfare of employers. A PAT Test, or EET, is not a legal requirement but it is recommended in order to identify any issues and hazards and mitigate against risks to ensure equipment is safe to use.

How often do I need a EET test?

There are no set rules when it comes to how frequently you should have your equipment EET tested, it depends on the level of risk. This is based on the type of equipment, how often it is used and the working environment. The Health and Safety Executive has produced guidance on the frequency of testing in its maintenance publications for both high risk environments and low risk environments.

Who can conduct an EET?

A PAT or EET test can only be conducted by a competent person with the right equipment and knowledge. If you are in a low-risk environment, you can carry out a visual inspection yourself if you have the right training. However, in high-risk environments, or when a full test (both a visual inspection and manual testing) is required, it is recommended to use a professional.

phs Complianceis the largest and most experienced provider of PAT testing in the UK. With more than 160 qualified electrical engineers around the UK, wherever you’re located, phs Compliance can service your electrical safety requirements.

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