A PAT test refers to the examination of portable electrical appliances to ensure they are safe to use. An effective PAT testing programme helps identify faulty appliances before they can cause harm. Any equipment found to be defective must not be used until it has been repaired or replaced. There are three main types of PAT tests: User checks Formal visual inspections Electrical tests using specialised equipment known as a Portable Appliance Tester The type of test chosen depends on the risk associated with each appliance. For example, appliances that are frequently moved or have metal casings are considered higher risk and may require more thorough testing.

Online PAT Testing Course | £16+VAT | Certificate

PAT Testing Course

By completing this PAT Testing course, you will be able to:

Identify portable electrical equipment and confidently distinguish between Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 appliances.
Understand your legal duties under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and how to stay compliant.
Explain and perform the different types of PAT tests, including user checks, visual inspections and instrument-based tests.
Assess risk levels based on environment, usage and equipment type.
Carry out user checks, visual inspections and PAT tests safely and correctly.
Use a Portable Appliance Tester to perform earth continuity and insulation resistance tests.
Complete a PAT risk assessment and determine the correct testing frequency for each appliance.
Set up and maintain a compliant PAT testing regime, with clear documentation and effective control measures.

PAT Testing Course Certificate

Written in compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
Developed by qualified health and safety professionals
Accredited by CPD – learn more about CPD here
Last Updated December 2024
The online PAT Testing certificate is valid for 3 years.

Course Preview

At Echo 3 we design our courses around how people actually learn. The content is concise, free from unnecessary repetition, and supported by motion graphics to help explain key concepts. This enables workers to train efficiently, stay engaged, and ultimately stay safe at work.

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Frequently asked Questions

Who is this PAT Testing course for?

Anyone responsible for the maintenance of portable electrical equipment in the workplace.
Anyone who uses portable electrical equipment at work, especially in higher-risk environments such as construction sites.

What are the learning outcomes?

Upon completion of the Echo3 PAT Testing training, learners will be able to:

Understand the risks associated with portable electrical equipment
Safely maintain electrical equipment
Conduct appropriate PAT risk assessments
Implement effective control measures to reduce risks
Know how to perform PAT tests correctly

What is PAT Testing?

A PAT test refers to the examination of portable electrical appliances to ensure they are safe to use.

An effective PAT testing programme helps identify faulty appliances before they can cause harm. Any equipment found to be defective must not be used until it has been repaired or replaced.

There are three main types of PAT tests:

User checks
Formal visual inspections
Electrical tests using specialised equipment known as a Portable Appliance Tester

The type of test chosen depends on the risk associated with each appliance. For example, appliances that are frequently moved or have metal casings are considered higher risk and may require more thorough testing.

Is PAT Testing compulsory?

Electrical safety regulations require employers to ensure that equipment is maintained safely. While the regulations do not mandate a specific method, PAT testing is widely recommended and commonly practiced. However, employers may use alternative approaches to maintain electrical equipment safely, provided the standards are met.

What is the PAT Test frequency for low-risk workplaces?

In low-risk workplaces, such as offices, the table below provides recommended intervals for testing portable electrical appliances.

What is a portable electrical appliance?

A portable electrical appliance is any item that can be moved and connected to an electrical supply.

How long is a PAT Testing certificate valid for?

The Echo3 PAT Testing certificate is valid for 3 years. The Echo3 system enables administrators to change the validity period.

How much is a PAT Testing certificate?

The Echo3 PAT Testing certificate is free with each PAT Testing course purchased. The PAT Testing certificate is emailed immediately upon successful completion of the course.

Course Content

UNIT 1

Introduction

Overview of portable electrical equipment and PAT testing, including key definitions, relevant legislation, and an explanation of equipment categories and classes, specifically Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3.

UNIT 2

Different Types of PAT Tests

Explores the three main types of PAT testing, including user checks, formal visual inspections, and tests using a Portable Appliance Tester. It also covers the instruments used for testing and guidance on selecting the appropriate type of PAT test.

UNIT 3

Risk Assessment and Control Measures

Purpose of PAT risk assessments, outlines the key risk factors to consider, such as equipment class, environmental conditions, and usage, and highlights the role of regular maintenance. It also covers best-practice control measures.