Clarification on PAT labelling
One of the most discussed areas of the new edition of the IET
Code of Practice is its revised guidance on electrical appliance
labelling.
The fourth revised edition of the code of practice now
recommends that the date for PAT (Portable Appliance Testing)
re-testing should not be marked on the pass label usually attached
to electrical appliances after testing. This is a pretty clear
statement and aims to stop Warrington electrical
contractors automatically determining the retest period when
the label is applied immediately after inspection and PAT
testing.
Nevertheless, in some discussion groups this appears to have
triggered considerable debate and some confusion. However this
advice needs to be seen in the wider context of the overall theme
of the new guidance, which is to clarify the role of duty holders
and to emphasise the importance of electrical risk assessment.
Electrical Inspection Regime
The advice from IET and HSE has always been that any electrical
test and electrical inspection regime should be based on risk, the
reality is that in many cases this has not been the case and the
suggested initial electrical test frequencies in the Code of
Practice have become standard and have been applied regardless of
risk.
Although the new code of practice says duty holders can take
advice from the person doing the electrical inspection and
electrical testing, it is they who have the legal responsibility to
ensure that the electrical equipment in their charge is safe and it
is their responsibility to decide whether or not to vary the
electrical inspection and electrical test frequencies.
Electrical Testing Services
This is clearly the motive behind the new guidance on PAT
labelling. It is of course a significant change to existing
practices and without a visual reminder of any upcoming electrical
testing due dates there is likely to be increased reliance on the
effective use of electrical equipment inspection and electrical
test records, with the Code also recommending that (previous)
electrical testing results should be made available to subsequent
electrical test operatives. In addition, rather than relying on
pre-determined re-test dates, there will also be increased emphasis
on the effective visual inspection of appliances.
For more information of PME Electrical Testing services contact
our team on 01925 394111.
