The Process of PAT Testing
This type of inspection involves a formal and systematic manner, which includes additional checks such as:
1. - check plug casings for damage
2. - removal of the plug cover
3. - check correct fuse rating
4. - check correct wiring
5. - check terminals and connections are secure
6. - check there is minimal bare wire
7. - check for signs of overheating – discoloration
8. - check for misuse/ingress of liquids or foreign matter
9. - check cable/cord grips
1. a) Is there damage (apart from light scuffing) to the cable sheath, is it bent or kinked?
2. b) Is the plug damaged, for example the casing is cracking or the pins bent,
3. c) Are there inadequate joints, including taped joints in cable,
4. d) Is the outer sheath of the cable not effectively secured where it enters the plug or the equipment. Obvious evidence would be if the coloured insulation of the internal cable cores were showing.
5. e) Has the equipment been subjected to conditions for which it is not suitable, e.g.: it is wet or excessively contaminated.
6. f) Is there damage to the external casing of the equipment or are there any some loose parts or screws.
7. g) Is there any evidence of overheating (burn marks or discolouration.)
At this point a full electrical test on the appliance is carried out:
The checks and inspections outlined above, should, if carried out properly, reveal most potentially dangerous faults, however not all faults are detectable by carrying out just a visual inspection:
1. - loss of earth integrity (earth test)
2. - deterioration of insulation integrity (insulation test)
3. - Other associated tests as required/necessary (earth leakage, load testing)
Therefore the relevant tests associated with the class of the appliance should then be performed