How to Prevent Electrical Fires in the Workplace

PAT Test - Help Prevent Electrical Fires

PAT testing law requires that all landlords, employers and even self-employed individuals make sure that their portable electrical appliances are safe and are suitable and used for the purposes intended. These appliances should always be maintained properly and remain in good working order.

A PAT test is a routine inspection of some types of electrical appliance to check they are safe to use. Its purpose is to prevent electrical accidents in the workplace.Some appliances only need a reduced test, called a PAT insulation test.

What is the difference between Class 1 and Class 2 appliances?

There are a number of different classifications of electrical appliance. With new safety regulations, some are obsolete and some refer to extra low voltage power sources.

Class 1 and Class 2 appliances are all powered by mains voltages. Both classes are required to provide at least two levels of protection to the end user. You could see this as a back-up; if one protection layer fails then the second layer back-up is still in place. This makes electrical equipment safe to use. PAT testing checks that both levels of protection are working effectively.

The different ways in which these two levels are achieved within an item defines whether the equipment is a Class 1 or Class 2 appliance. Both Class 1 and Class 2 equipment require PAT testing, although it is important to differentiate the two as they are tested differently.

Class 1 Appliances.

With Class 1 appliances, the user is protected by a combination of basic insulation and the provision of an earth connection, thus providing two levels of protection. When PAT Testing Class 1 appliances, Earth Continuity and Insulation Resistance tests are carried out. So in summary:

- If it is made of metal it must be a Class 1 appliance

- If it has a three core cable it must be a Class 1 appliance 

- If the plug has a metal Earth pin it must be a Class 1 appliance.

Typically fridges, microwaves, toasters are all Class 1.

Class 2 Appliances.

In Class 2 appliances, the user is protected by at least two layers of insulation. For this reason, Class 2 appliances are also known as Double Insulated. They do not require an earth connection. When PAT Testing Class 2 appliances, just the Insulation Resistance test is carried out. So in summary:

- If the case is plastic it must be a Class 2 appliance

- If there is a double box symbol on the rating plate it must be a Class 2 appliance.

Typically computers and photocopiers are Class 2, most plastic power tools would also be Class 2.

How often is PAT Testing required?

The Health & Safety Executive provides no set rule on PAT testing frequency, only that testing should be done regularly to ensure preventative maintenance and electrical fires. The reason that there is no set frequency is because different situations arise that call for different measures. There are a number of factors that affect PAT testing frequency and it is up to each individual to determine when testing should be carried out.

Equipment that is used more should be tested more frequently to avoid electrical fires. This equipment is likely to suffer less damage than that used regularly.

If people using equipment report any damages as they become noticeable, there is less chance of a major hazard. If equipment regularly receives damage or abuse that is not reported then inspections and testing are required more frequently.

The type of equipment is a major factor in determining PAT testing frequency. Class 1 appliances carry the greatest risk of danger and should be tested more often. Hand held appliances are more likely to become damaged than those that are stationary. 

Although there are no requirements for PAT testing frequency, there are recommendations:

Offices, Shops and Hotels – Class 1 equipment including stationary and IT equipment should be tested every 48 months. Moveable equipment such as extension leads and portable equipment should be tested every 24 months. Handheld equipment should be tested every 12 months.

Schools – All Class 1 equipment in schools should be PAT tested every 12 months. Class 2 equipment should be tested every 48 months.

Public Use Equipment – Stationary and IT equipment such as computers should be tested every 12 months. Moveable, Portable and Handheld equipment falling into Class 2 should be tested every 12 months. Moveable, Portable and Handheld equipment falling into Class 1 should be tested every 6 months.

Construction – All 110V equipment used on construction sites should be tested every 3 months.

Industrial – All industrial sites, including commercial kitchens should have Portable and Handheld equipment tested every 6 months. Stationary, IT and Moveable equipment should be tested every 12 months.

Can we do our own PAT testing?

You can carry out your own PAT testing with the required training and equipment. Numerous organisations arrange courses such as High Speed training which have courses from £30.00 for training relevant to low risk premises - See full details This course will familiarise you with the task of portable appliance testing and ways you can help minimise the risk of electrocution, electric shock, and electrically-initiated fires in the workplace. You will learn about the basics of PAT so you're able to offer your support and ensure electrical equipment does not put people's health and safety at risk while at work.

Note that this course provides awareness level knowledge. In low risk environments, such as offices, it provides sufficient knowledge to allow the learner to conduct PAT Tests but, in higher risk areas, a greater level of knowledge is required and this course is NOT suitable. 

If you have higher risk premises we recommend you contact a few qualified PAT test specialists as costs can vary considerably