Electrical items are everywhere. Offices, schools, hotels, shops and care homes all use them daily. However, damaged electrical equipment can cause electric shocks, burns or fires.
This is where a PAT tester can help. A PAT tester checks electrical equipment for signs of damage or safety problems.
So, how do you become a PAT tester in the UK? You do not always need to become a fully qualified electrician first. However, you must have the right knowledge, skills and training to carry out tests safely.
What Does a PAT Tester Do?
PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing.
A PAT tester checks electrical equipment to make sure it remains safe to use. This may include:
- Computers and monitors
- Kettles and microwaves
- Extension leads
- Lamps
- Power tools
- Printers
- Chargers and other electrical equipment
The job usually starts with a visual check. You may look for damaged cables, cracked plugs, burn marks or loose parts.
Then, where needed, you use a PAT testing machine to carry out electrical tests. You also need to understand the results and decide whether the equipment is safe.
Do You Need Qualifications to Become a PAT Tester?
There is no single law that says every PAT tester must hold a certain PAT testing qualification.
However, the Health and Safety Executive says people carrying out electrical testing should be trained and competent. Competence comes from suitable training, skills, knowledge and experience.
Therefore, taking a recognised PAT testing course is a good way to build these skills.
One recognised option is the City & Guilds 2377-77 Level 3 Award in the In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment. City & Guilds introduced this qualification to replace its older 2377-22 and 2377-32 qualifications.
However, the level of training you need can depend on the type of testing you plan to carry out.
Step 1: Learn Basic Electrical Safety
Start by learning how electricity works and how electrical equipment can become dangerous.
You should understand topics such as:
- Electrical hazards
- Plugs, cables and fuses
- Equipment classes
- Earthing
- Insulation
- Visual inspections
- Safe testing methods
You should also understand what different PAT test results mean.
Step 2: Complete PAT Testing Training
Next, take a suitable PAT testing course.
A good course should teach both theory and practical testing. You should learn how to inspect equipment, use a PAT tester and record your findings.
Training becomes even more important when you use equipment that gives detailed readings. HSE guidance explains that more advanced testing requires greater electrical knowledge and the ability to understand test results.
Step 3: Practise Using PAT Equipment
Knowing the theory is only part of the job. You also need practical experience.
Practise carrying out visual inspections and using a suitable PAT testing machine. Learn which tests apply to different types of equipment.
You should also know when an item must fail.
Never pass an appliance just because the PAT machine gives a positive result. A damaged cable or plug may still make the equipment unsafe.
Step 4: Learn How to Keep Records
After testing equipment, you may need to record details such as:
- Appliance name
- Appliance or asset number
- Test date
- Inspection results
- Electrical test results
- Pass or fail result
- Tester details
There is not always a legal requirement to keep a PAT testing log. However, HSE says records can provide a useful way to manage and review electrical maintenance.
Step 5: Start Working as a PAT Tester
Once you have enough training and practical skills, you can look for PAT testing work.
You could work for an electrical company, facilities management business or property maintenance company. Schools, offices, landlords, hotels and other organisations may also need electrical equipment checks.
Another option is to work for yourself. In that case, you will need suitable testing equipment and business insurance. You should also have a clear system for reports, labels and customer records.
Do PAT Tests Have to Be Done Every Year?
Not always.
A common myth says every portable electrical item needs a PAT test once a year. HSE states that the law does not require annual PAT testing for every appliance.
Instead, businesses should maintain electrical equipment to prevent danger. The right inspection and testing schedule depends on the equipment, its use and the level of risk.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a PAT tester can offer a practical route into electrical safety work.
You do not always need to become a qualified electrician first. However, you must be competent for the testing you carry out.
Start with electrical safety knowledge. Then complete suitable training and get hands-on practice. Finally, learn how to inspect, test and record results correctly.
With the right skills and experience, you can work for a company or offer PAT testing services of your own.