PAT Testing is an acronym for Portable Appliance Testing and is a colloquial term used to describe the examination of electrical appliances and equipment for safety through a series of visual inspections and electronic tests.

Officially recognised as the IET Code of Practice on In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment (ISITEE), which now covers all electrical appliances, not just those that can be moved or fitted with a plug.

All electrical equipment must comply with the fundamental principles of:

• The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (EAWR)

• The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) 

to ensure they are safe for use.

Why do I need to have my appliances tested?

PAT tests are a good way to prove to persons in charge of the electrical systems that equipment is safe to use and that you, as the supplier, are meeting your legal obligations to maintain high standards of electrical safety.

What needs PAT testing?

The Event Manager or SPR will advise on the policy to test for equipment owned by the production, but as an individual or supplier of electrical items that comes as part of your paid services, you have a legal responsibility to ensure that items you supply are safe. The list is not exhaustive, but here are a few examples

• Battery charging equipment,

• Monitors,

• Smoke Machines,

• Props,

• Hairdryers,

• lights,

• computers,

• fans,

• kettles,

• extension reels,

And anything else that can be attached to an electrical supply by way of screw or push fit terminals or a plug & socket arrangement.

What does Portable Appliance Testing involve?

To establish the safety and suitability of your electrical appliances, the competent person will carry out a visual inspection of the appliance, its plug and lead, plus injecting test signals into the cable and appliance to ensure their integrity, polarity and, in the case of Class 1 equipment, continuity of the earth conductor to any external metal parts.

Who should do the work?

Electrical work must only be carried out by people who have the necessary knowledge, skill and experience needed to avoid danger to themselves and others. Most PAT Test courses issue Certificates of Competence.

Many productions set up PAT testing facilities at the beginning of a job, but this service is not usually available to dailies. 

An internet search for PAT testing in your area will yield results, or speak with colleagues for recommendations.

What records will the test provide?

Upon completion of the portable appliance inspection and testing you should receive a report that details the following as a minimum:

• An inventory containing each appliance type, name, and description

• A full set of test results for each appliance tested

• A full list of any failed items with an explanation of their failure

• A visible pass or fail label on each appliance detailing the inspection date, next test due.

If you are not technically aware, then the contractor / competent person who carried out the inspection and testing should be happy to talk through your report with you and advise you of any further action required.

Who needs to see the Proof of PAT Test?

Potentially, anyone who manages the electrical supply that you are going to draw from. It could be the Senior Person Responsible, a manager within your department, a location owner, the lighting team, one of the locations or facilities team.

Have a copy of the reports on your phone.

It has been known for some local authorities and large office locations to do spot checks. Be prepared. 

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