How much does PAT testing cost? Is it worth the price? What are my options? PAT testing is an integral part of risk assessment testing, and PAT testing services are the only valuable way to identify potential fire and electric shock hazards.
The cost of PAT testing can vary from residential to commercial use, so it is essential to look at your situation and find out what suits your needs. The cost can also vary depending on the supplier you select, the number of inspections and testing covered, and the type of equipment used.
What is PAT testing?
Portable appliance testing or PAT testing is the process of checking electrical equipment and outlets to ensure they are safe to use. PAT testing ensures that portable appliances comply with current safety standards and are in complete working order.
In the commercial sector, the electrical appliance safety regulations apply to all electrical equipment used at work, from simple power tools to complex machinery such as lifts or switchgear. You mustn’t just rely on your supplier or manufacturer to carry out PAT tests. You need to make sure that the person carrying out the test has been trained and certified. In addition, they must use an approved PAT test kit when carrying out inspections.
Is PAT testing a legal requirement?
Is PAT testing a legal requirement?
PAT testing is not a legal requirement or obligation. Nevertheless, current United Kingdom legislation mandates that companies keep their electrical appliances in good working order. Therefore, businesses have a legal obligation to protect their employees and the general public.
PAT testing has become a regular method of ensuring that this legal requirement is met since it is one of the most effective ways of doing so, particularly for high-risk or complex settings.
How often should PAT testing be conducted?
Class 1 equipment (which includes stationary IT equipment) should be PAT tested every 4 years. Portable equipment such as extension cords should be tested every 2 years. More frequently used and transported equipment (handheld gadgets) should be tested every 12 months due to the increased risk of damage.
Factors that affect the cost of PAT testing
- Size of the building
- Number of items
- Type of electrical equipment
- Locations
Size of the building
The bigger the building, the more outlets, and electronic items it tends to have. This means that PAT testing electricians will spend more time and may need to come with colleagues depending on the size of the building.
Number of items
If you have a lot of electrical appliances, the cost will be cheaper per item, or by taking a PAT test service package depending on the provider. For instance, Legionella Risk Assessments and PAT Testing, a company based in Scotland, offers a package of 10 inspections and testing for £ 59.00.
Type of electrical equipment
If you have standard 13 amp plugs, the cost for PAT testing is likely to stay at between £ 5 and £ 6 per item. However, if the PAT testing electricians need to test industrial adaptors and plugs, prices can rise to between £ 8 and £ 10 per item.
After the electrical appliances have been tested, the PAT testing electricians may need to replace plugs and fuses or rewire plugs. This service is extra, and you’ll be expected to pay between £ 5 and £ 10 for each fuse, plug, or rewiring job.
Location
Depending on where you live and if the PAT testing service provider must travel some great distance, the cost of transport may affect the total price of the service.
How much does PAT testing cost?
Legionella Risk Assessments and PAT Testing offers a package of 10 inspections and testing for £ 59.00. We are open to negotiating cost per appliance when the number of items exceeds 10. For commercial PAT testing, the price starts at £ 79 for 30 tests on electrical items.
What does PAT testing involve?
A complete PAT test should include a visual inspection as well as a more thorough examination using specialised PAT testing equipment. Lead polarity, earth continuity, and insulation resistance are all analysed during this test.
Every item should be labelled ‘passed’ or ‘failed’ at the completion of a PAT test, and the results should be documented. The current regulation does not define ‘portable appliance’, although the common interpretation is “any device that has a plug and plugs into a power socket.”
There are seven types of appliances that should be subjected to PAT testing or at the very least, visual inspections:
- Fixed appliances
- Stationary appliances
- IT appliances
- Moveable appliances
- Portable appliances
- Cables and chargers
- Hand-held appliances
PAT testing services
Electrical safety is not something that should be left to chance. Conducting regular and thorough inspections is critical, and must be completed correctly. Professional PAT testing involves continuity tests, polarity tests, and insolation tests. These ensure that your electrical appliances are electrically sound and safe.
Legionella Risk and PAT Testing offers low-cost PAT testing throughout Scotland as there shouldn’t be an economic restraint to be safe. You can protect your home or business from potential dangers, damage, and injuries caused by an electrical failure by using our domestic or commercial PAT testing service.
