Why PAT Has Changed Its Name? Moving from PAT to EET

When it comes to safety you may have heard of "PAT" (Portable Appliance Testing). Are you familiar, with "EET"?

If not it might surprise you to know that PATs are no longer used and have been replaced by EETs, which stands for Electrical Equipment Testing. Curious about why this change happened and what your responsibilities entail for electrical safety inspections? This guide will clarify the distinctions between PAT and EET. Provide an overview of everything you need to understand about conducting safety checks.

What is PAT Testing?

PAT Testing involves examining equipment and appliances to ensure they are safe for use. While not legally mandated PAT testing is recommended as it helps comply with the requirement that all workplace electrical equipment must be maintained in a condition. It aids in identifying hazards and risks ensuring the safety of users and property.

Has There Been a Change, in PAT Testing?

The term "PAT Testing" has been updated to "Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment" (ITEE) or Electrical Equipment Testing (EET). The testing criteria and procedures remain consistent. The name alteration aims to reduce confusion regarding what requires testing.

Why Change from PAT to EET?

The change, in terminology from PAT to EET aims to address concerns that the terms "portable" and "appliance" may imply a scope of testing. The term "portable" could suggest that testing is only necessary for devices like laptops and toasters while "appliance" might indicate a focus on white goods. In reality these tests are meant for all equipment connected to the mains power supply regardless of their size. By renaming the tests as EET it makes it clear that they apply to a range of equipment ensuring that all necessary items are properly tested.

With the terminology "PAT Testing" continues to be commonly used in the industry. Both terms essentially refer to the thing.

What Equipment Requires Testing under EET?

EET Testing is applicable to any equipment that is plugged into the mains power supply. This includes office devices such as phone chargers and computers household appliances like kettles and microwaves well as larger industrial machinery. Even if an item is not portable and is fixed or integrated into a system it still needs testing when connected to mains electricity. However items powered by batteries or cordless devices do not need PAT testing; however their chargers should be tested.

Typically new equipment only needs an inspection, than a full PAT test since it should be supplied in proper working condition. During an Electrical Equipment Test (EET) a thorough visual inspection is carried out to look for any signs of damage, like cracks in plugs, loose wiring exposed wires and appliance damage. Inspectors also examine Residual Current Devices (RCDs) for damage. Check if the 'test' button functions. Additionally environmental checks are conducted to identify hazards related to cables, sockets well as fire or water risks.

Following this inspection a skilled professional performs an examination using specialized equipment to test earth continuity lead polarity and insulation resistance. In case an item fails the EET it must be taken out of service immediately. It should. Undergo repairs. Retesting or be replaced. Repairs need to pass a follow up test before the equipment can be put back into use.

The necessity of an EET stems from obligations for employers to ensure equipment safety as per the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 also requires employers to safeguard their employees health, safety and welfare. While PAT or EET testing isn't mandatory by law it is advisable, for identifying and managing risks to maintain equipment safety.

How frequently should EET testing be scheduled?

There are no guidelines regarding the timing of EET testing; it varies based on the risk level associated with the equipment, its usage and the work environment. The Health and Safety Executive offers recommendations, on testing schedules in their maintenance materials for both risk and low risk settings.

Who is qualified to carry out an EET assessment?

EET assessments should be conducted by an individual with the skills and tools. In low risk settings trained personnel can perform checks. However in high risk environments or for assessments (manual) it is advisable to engage a professional.

GB PAT Testing Liverpool stands as the provider of PAT testing in North West England boasting a team of certified engineers in the area. No matter your location, within North West England GB PAT Testing Liverpool can cater to your electrical safety requirements.

To schedule a service reach out to GB PAT Testing Liverpool at 07522 874780. Complete a contact form.