Portable appliance testing (PAT) is the term used to describe the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use and should be carried out by qualified electrician. The test comprises of three parts.
- Electrical-testing. A visual inspection looks at damage to the cable, plug (including checking for any wiring or fuse problems), case and/or any loose components. The visual inspection checks that the environment the device is being used in is appropriate
- An earth continuity test checks for earth continuity between the plug and the appropriate parts of the device
- The insulation test checks the cable for any faults or weaknesses.