With the rapid advancements in technology, electronic devices are being upgraded to unimaginable versions. There is no doubt that the modern way of life is so dependent on technology, and it is these technological advancements that make human life easier and more efficient.
Being busy with electronic devices has become an integral part of everyone’s lifestyle. A day without cell phones, laptops, fridges or ovens is hard to imagine. People are so addicted to these gadgets that it is hard to go back to when the very first telephone was invented.
Living with machines is good, but they too require regular checks and maintenance, like the human body. Without these maintenances, the machines can break down and lead to major damage and accidents. That is why PAT test is legally recognized and mandatory for households and offices in some countries.
What is a PAT?
PAT may seem overwhelming to most people as it is not popular in most countries. PAT is a portable device test that ensures that a portable electronic device is working efficiently. More common in the UK, New Zealand, Australia and Ireland, portable device testing ensures that there are no threats or faults in the devices that could lead to sudden failures or crashes.
Wearable device testing is done by professionals; the testing procedure involves various types of inspections and the repair of damage if discovered. In other words, it is a regular maintenance check that ensures the proper functioning of portable devices. The tests are carried out using specific instruments such as PAT testers and other devices.
Countries that practice the PAT test are very strict with their regulations; only certified professionals are authorized to carry out these inspections. Landlords who rent out their properties and business offices who do not carry out these tests in a timely manner can also face legal trouble.
Why do you need PAT inspections?
Mandatory, especially in commercial settings where hundreds and thousands of employees work together largely based on portable electronic devices, PAT inspections are crucial to maintaining life safety. When many electronic devices are involved in a workplace, the risk of sudden shocks, fires or burns is very common. To avoid sudden accidents and injuries, business owners are advised to keep records of their PAT inspections. In fact, it is the legal responsibility of owners to protect their employees from death threats. And failing to perform PAT inspections from time to time can also lead to serious legal problems or result in huge fines for owners.
In other words, PAT inspections are mandatory in a place where many portable devices are involved. These inspections ensure that there are no faults in the machines that can give rise to future threats.
Is it possible to perform a home PAT inspection on your own?
Many owners wonder if they can perform portable device testing themselves, and surprisingly the answer is yes. Any knowledgeable adult can perform PAT inspections; however, there are terms and conditions to follow, and the person must have been trained in a certain way. It is possible to carry out PAT inspections at home, but before that you must be able to provide proof of your knowledge and training.
Many owners complain about having to pay fees to PAT professionals to perform maintenance inspections from time to time. Many people enroll in short-term training programs offered by government-recognized organizations to avoid these extreme expenses. Only after obtaining these certificates can you perform a PAT home inspection. Without proof of prior training or experience, it is illegal to perform such home inspections, and the sole reason behind this is the risk associated with accidental electric shocks and fires.
After acquiring the required knowledge and knowing which tools are appropriate, as well as mastering their uses, anyone can perform PAT inspections at home without having to depend on a professional. However, if you are not confident enough, it is always wise to appoint a professional who thoroughly understands portable electronic devices and can easily detect or fix the underlying issues.
3 easy steps to test your own PAT equipment
Wearable device test inspections are usually carried out in three stages or ways. If you want to inspect at home with your equipment, here are the steps to follow:
User control
The first step in the PAT inspection is the user inspection, where the inspector carefully checks the electronic devices and finds the obvious signs of damage. These obvious signs, such as wire damage, may be visible or detectable. User inspection is the first step in inspection, deciding what needs to be fixed or changed.
Visual inspection
The next step is a visual inspection; in this, the professional discovers the visible defects disturbing the operation of the electronic device. Visual inspections help professionals better understand underlying faults and ways to fix them.
A visual inspection consists of checking the visible parts of the devices such as the connectmains and sockets, cables, RCD checks and inspection for other signs of wear.
Combined inspection
The third level of PAT inspection is a combined inspection that is only performed by a qualified professional. Much more complicated than the previous inspection levels, the combined inspection is the result of various tests and examinations. The combined inspection is also recognized as a manual inspection, and a portable device tester plays an essential role.
In this final inspection stage, the professional performs various complicated tests that only someone with knowledge of electricity can understand. These tests include ground testing, insulation testing, extension testing, ICE cable testing, and ground leakage testing.
Last words
After learning all about the PAT and the ways to perform these home inspections, there may still be confusion about how often these inspections should be performed. To answer that, experts leave that to wearable device users; it depends on the users how often they want to perform these inspections and be assured of their conditions. If the devices are used regularly, the need may be frequent. On the other hand, if the use is infrequent, checks can be carried out on an ad hoc basis.