How do you PAT test fixed appliances?

This is not training. Please ensure you are competent and have had the correct 'Safe Isolation' training before PAT testing fixed appliances.

The starting point for testing fixed equipment must be a thorough risk assessment. The inspections and tests carried out on fixed equipment are the same as those used for plug connected equipment, but the key challenges are safe isolation and connecting the test equipment.

To comply with the EAWR (Reg. 16) those testing fixed equipment must be competent to do so. Best Practice Guide 2 from Electrical Safety First contains industry guidance on safe isolation practice.

Once safely isolated you can then carry out a full visual inspection as detailed in the IET CoP. On successful completion of the visual inspection it is necessary to make a temporary connection between the equipment and the PAT tester & best practice is to use a tester that has Point to Point testing facility.

Great care must be taken to ensure the correct test connections are made and that no shock risk is posed during testing.