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Course overview

This comprehensive PAT Testing course is designed to provide delegates with the skills to carry out the testing of all types of electrical equipment. The course covers the legal requirements and relevant standards, the types of tests and test equipment, the results and the recording of results.

Our training events are interactive, combining theory and practise. You’ll have hands-on experience with industry-standard PAT Testers. In addition, we have up-to-date information on all PAT Testers so you can make informed decisions.

Learners will learn how to test and inspect a range of electrical appliances and understand the safety checks that need to be carried out. The course also covers the requirements for maintaining and storing test results as well as the use of mains powered PAT Testing equipment. We will cover the testing of all plug-in portable appliances, including IT equipment, industrial equipment (including 3-phase), power tools (230V and 110V), and both domestic and commercial appliances. If it needs to be tested, we’ll show you how.

At the end of the day, delegates will be able to undertake their own PAT Testing safely and correctly, in line with current legislation.

Entry Requirements

This course is designed for a wide range of people, regardless of electrical experience, and includes:

  • Electricians or tradesmen
  • Companies who are wanting to save money hiring a contractor to undertake the PAT testing.
  • Landlords wanting to test their own property applies
  • Anyone who wants to improve and broaden their knowledge of electrical equipment testing.

What Are The Legal Responsiblities For PAT Testing

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 stipulate that all electrical equipment used in the workplace must be tested using Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) before use. This is to ensure that the equipment is safe and compliant with the regulations, and to reduce the risk of electric shock to users.

A PAT testing course provides the knowledge and skills necessary to carry out PAT testing safely and effectively. The course covers topics such as the legal requirements for PAT testing, the types of tests used, and the interpretation of test results. Additionally, it teaches the practical skills required for carrying out PAT tests, including how to use the appropriate testing equipment.

By completing a PAT course, individuals can ensure that they are qualified to safely undertake PAT testing, helping to keep workplaces and homes safe.

Course Accreditation

Learners who successfully undertake this course will receive a Skills Training Group training certificate.

Overview of PAT Certification

When the course is completed, a quality-assured PAT test certificate will be given to you. It can be utilised as proof of compliance and audit.

After the course completion, you will understand the following:

  • What types of electrical equipment fall into the two categories of portable equipment?
  • What portable electrical equipment-using workplaces must comply with under the law?
  • How to use the hierarchy of controls when performing a risk assessment of portable electrical equipment.
  • What dangers specific working conditions and portable electrical equipment may present?
  • How to safely choose and utilise portable electrical equipment, including how to plug things in.
  • How to carry out visual inspections, portable appliance tests, and combined visual inspections and tests before usage.
  • What to do if equipment malfunctions or fails a test or inspection.
  • How to choose the right test and PAT testing frequency.
  • What safety measures ought to be in place?

The suggested renewal test date will be printed on your PAT test certificate.

It serves as a record of previous actions. Records can be kept in various formats, from a simple list to a complex PDF.

As a general rule, each Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) Certificate must include the following information as a minimum requirement:

  • Information about the location where the PAT test was conducted
  • A list of all the portable electrical appliances tested, along with their test results
  • When the PAT test was conducted
  • Information about the business or individual that the test carried out

NOTE: According to the following work regulations, employers must ensure that electrical equipment is secure: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (MHSWR), Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

Modules breakdown

  • The Code of Practice for the In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment’s applications, objectives, and definitions
  • The statutory and non-statutory requirements for electrical equipment maintenance
  • Electrical units, circuits, and components associated with electrical equipment in-service inspection and testing
  • The construction and classification of equipment, as well as how these relate to electric shock protection
  • The procedures for electrical equipment in-service inspection and testing
  • How to Perform Electrical Equipment Inspection and Testing
  • Information and documentation pertaining to electrical equipment in-service inspection and testing
  • Electrical equipment must be inspected and tested.

REQUIRED COURSE BOOK

For your pat testing training, you will need the following book:

If you have no prior electrical experience, we recommend that you read the book before attending the pat tester training course. If you read the contents page, glossary, and index and learn what the book covers in general, it will help you when you start the course.

We have some books in stock at our main locations, but we cannot guarantee stock availability unless you call ahead to purchase the books.

ASSESSMENTS

There is no exam or final assessment; however, you will receive a certificate confirming attendance at the end of the portable appliance tester course.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the course accredited by?

Who is the course accredited by?

There are many options for PAT testing accreditation such as, City & Guilds 2377-77, LCL Awards Level 3 Award in the In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment, etc.

Many training centres use their own in-house accreditation now which is all you need to prove competence.

When you sucessfully complete your training, you'll be awarded a Skills Training Group certificate.

Is PAT testing a good money earner?

Pat testing is a necessary part of the maintenance process for electrical appliances and can be an important part of ensuring the safety of people in any building. As such, it is often seen as a viable job choice. But how much money is available to those who choose to pursue this profession?

The answer to that question depends on a number of factors, including the type of business you are working at and the specific skillset that you bring to the job. Generally speaking, however, pat testing can be a lucrative field, with experienced professionals earning up to £40 per hour or more. Many electricians also find that they are able to negotiate higher rates in order to take on more complex jobs.

In addition, many pat testers also find that they are able to supplement their income by taking on extra work such as providing technical advice or consultancy services. This can often be a great way for experienced professionals to boost their earnings and gain even more experience in the industry.

What is pat testing?

PAT testing, or Portable Appliance Testing, is a crucial aspect of electrical safety in the workplace. Certified PAT testers undergo specialised training and possess the knowledge and experience to conduct thorough and accurate inspections of portable appliances and other electrical equipment. An accredited PAT testing course provides information and instruction on electrical safety, equipment testing, and the necessary procedures to complete a PAT test. Online and in-person PAT testing courses are available, with options for certification at various levels.

What is included in a pat testing course?

The training covers the use of PAT testing instruments and devices, including power continuity and insulation resistance testing, and the interpretation of test results. A certificate of completion is issued upon successful completion of the course and exam. The PAT testing course can be beneficial for anyone who uses portable appliances, including employees in offices, schools, care homes, and other organisations.

Who needs to be pat tested?

All businesses in the United Kingdom are required by law to ensure that their electrical equipment is safe to use, and PAT testing is one method of meeting this requirement. Companies, electricians, and individuals can enrol in a PAT testing course to learn how to conduct their own PAT tests. A PAT tester certificate can demonstrate electrical safety competence and responsibility.

How often do you need to be pat tested?

The frequency of PAT testing depends on a number of factors, including the type and use of the equipment, and it is important to have appliances tested regularly in order to minimize risk. The consequences of not being PAT tested can include fines, legal action, and increased liability in the event of an accident.

What does pat testing involve?

To ensure a successful PAT test, keep records of all equipment and inspections, and adhere to proper testing procedures. A qualified and experienced PAT tester can offer risk assessment advice as well as a professional overview of the results.

What's the cost?

PAT testing costs vary according to the number of items covered, the length of the course, and the level of certification desired. Some PAT testing courses include CPD certification and cover a variety of topics, such as UK regulations and the IET Code of Practice. A PAT testing course can provide a comprehensive understanding of portable appliance testing and the regulations that govern it, whether you are an employer, an electrician, or someone with a general interest in electrical safety.

The cost of a PAT testing service varies according to several factors, including the size of the company or organisation, the number of items to be tested, and the level of experience and qualification of the staff conducting the tests. VAT and other fees may also have an impact on the final price.

PAT testing services can cost anywhere between a few hundred pounds and several thousand pounds, depending on the scope of the work and the level of certification desired. A small hotel or charity, for example, may only need a simple PAT test for a few items, whereas a larger organisation with many employees and a large number of portable appliances may need a more comprehensive PAT testing programme.

Who Needs PAT Certification?

The following should take this programme:

Anyone deemed competent in learning about Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) can take this course, which complements formal education with readily available materials.
Everyone seeking a credential in Portable Appliance Testing (PAT), including electricians, landlords of rental properties, business owners, and building managers, would benefit from our course.
Industrial maintenance personnel
Facilities supervisors
Office support personnel

It is suitable for all employees because it provides learners with a basic knowledge and understanding of Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) and does not call for prior training.

Those who work in higher than low-risk environments ARE NOT SUITABLE for this training. It applies to all industrial locations as well as gyms and schools.

Get covered today and learn more about the PAT Testing Insurance Requirements here.

NOTE: All certified testers must read the IEE Code of Practice, a manual for the in-service inspection and testing of electrical equipment. The various PAT testers are listed here.

Is This a Legal Requirement?

The quick answer to this frequently asked question is NO; it's not a legal requirement.

Currently, the UK needs laws requiring all businesses to have their electrical equipment for portable appliances tested. Find out here about the PAT Testing Regulations.

But, if you are the business owners or landlords of rental properties, you are legally required to ensure electrical equipment is PAT tested and complies with health and safety requirements.

And PAT testing is the best approach to fulfilling this legal need. Discover the different PAT testing types here.

Although it is not required by law, many insurance companies insist that landlords and businesses carry out Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) at least once a year.

A maximum punishment of £5000 and six months in jail might be imposed for violating electrical laws under the Health & Safety at Work Act of 1974.

Hence, even though it is not legally required, we strongly advise every company to perform PAT testing to comply with electrical regulations and to provide you peace of mind.

NOTE: According to the Electricity at Work Regulations of 1989, all electrical equipment potentially injuring people must be kept safe.

Qualifying for PAT Certification

After the Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) training course, a multiple-choice exam will check your knowledge and understanding of the material.

After completing the PAT testing training course, you will receive a digital PAT test certificate, which you may download or print. We advise keeping these for your records.

The portable appliance testing course has received CPD approval, and the PAT test certificate has its emblem.

Each Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) equipment for portable appliances is unique.

Before attempting portable appliance testing, students must ensure they have read and understood the manufacturer's user manual for their PAT testing equipment.

PAT Certification Process

You must regularly inspect and test your electrical equipment to obtain a portable appliance testing certificate to comply with the legal requirements.

The PAT test certificate verifies that your portable electrical equipment was inspected to ensure its PAT Testing Safety; it is appropriate documentation in case you ever need it.

You will receive the PAT Testing Certificate when a qualified electrician inspects and test your electrical equipment, which is an essential part of the process.

It is a document that certifies that each PAT-tested electrical appliance is safe to use; they list each appliance, identifying it by name, the ID number it was given, and whether it is safe.

They will advise you on the next steps if an appliance is unsafe.

Every appliance PAT tested, and its specific ID number will be listed on the certificate you receive (that matches the labels stuck to the appliances).

The report includes the findings from the tests that were performed.

They will inspect each appliance to ensure it is not broken and test the ones that need it to ensure they operate within the required safety range.

They also divide the report into specific areas of your facility, such as a list of the equipment in the office, the conference room, the kitchen, etc.

They will provide a report on any appliances they cannot fix and ultimately didn't pass, in addition to the list of PAT-tested appliances.

PAT Certification Requirements

For the PAT testing certifation, there are no set prerequisites. Regardless of prior electrical experience, a wide spectrum of people can benefit from this training.

The four sections of the online portable appliance testing training course, which you may take on your own time, are as follows:

Introduction

An introduction to portable appliance testing is provided, along with tips on how to carry out PAT tests safely.

What is portable electrical equipment, what are the safety concerns, what are the legal requirements, and what are the legal duties of producers, importers, or distributors?

Risk Assessment

What is a risk assessment, and who should conduct them?

The risk assessment will determine how frequently PAT testing is performed, including if your workplace or equipment poses a low, medium, or high risk.

That might happen every three months or only once every five years.

Safe Choice and Usage

The hierarchy of controls, elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Obligations of PPE suppliers and manufacturers, instruction, information, and training instructing employees on use and storage, cables and connection points.

Faulty equipment, safety risks from specific equipment, challenging working conditions, hired and loaned equipment, emergency procedures, and fire safety.

Examinations and Tests

Pre-use checks, formal visual inspection, combined inspections and tests, inspection and PAT testing frequency, failed inspections and tests, and recorded findings are all related to class I and II equipment.

In this section, you’ll examine the purpose of portable appliance testing, a general overview of the law, what constitutes a portable appliance, the many categories of the appliance, and what each category means.

This module demonstrates how to carry out inspections, earth bond testing, insulation testing, leakage testing, IEC leads and extension leads, labelling, and retesting.

Post-course Assessment

After the portable appliance test course verifies your attendance, you will receive a certificate; there is no exam or final assessment.

Following completion of the training materials, the online assessment is taken. The answers are immediately graded, so you’ll know immediately if you passed.

Do not worry if you don’t pass! You are not charged as many extra fees to retake the exam as necessary.

How to Obtain PAT Certification

To begin your PAT testing training programme, you must follow these procedures and obtain a portable appliance testing certificate.

1) Choose a Certified Course Provider

Place the PAT testing course of your choice. After adding all the PAT test courses you need, proceed to the easy checkout process to transact with a debit or credit card.

2) Complete the Necessary Training

After purchasing, watch for an email with the information you need to begin your PAT testing training.

3) Receive Certification

After you finish your PAT test course, the certified provider will mail a hard copy of your certificate to your UK postal address if your delivery address is there.

Please give the delivery process three to four working days. Want to skip the wait? After finishing the PAT test course, you can receive your digital certificate as a PDF.

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