Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)

What is Portable Appliance Testing?

Portable appliance testing is that the process by which portable appliances are inspected and tested for safe use. These tests are conducted consistent with the AS/NZS 3760 or the AS/NZS 3012 for workplaces where electrical installations are ongoing, as well as construction and demolition sites. The testing is completed with the use of a portable appliance tester device that helps to assess the safety status of each item.

Why is it important to test Portable Appliance?

While some safety defects are identifiable by visual examination, others can only be found by thorough electrical testing of kit. By ensuring your tools, appliances, and equipment are safe, you’re eliminating unnecessary risk. Every year, people are injured or killed at work. You can ensure that your workplace is safe by asking a 24×7 Test & Tag technician to test and tag equipment and portable appliances according to the standard frequencies.

When does the Equipment need to be Tested? 

The testing frequency for portable devices varies consistent on the character of the workplace and therefore the sort of equipment. The following information is based on the test & tag frequency standards stipulated by the AS/NZS 3012.

Construction and demolition sites:

• Portable equipment should be tested every 3 months
• Fire equipment must be tested before the fire and a minimum of once a month (if fire equipment remains on site then it should be tested to an equivalent standard as all other portable equipment).
• Portable RCDs should be tested every 3 months