Electrical equipment testing (EET) ensures that your electrical equipment works as it should.
This guide will tell you everything you need to know about electrical equipment testing and inspection.
What do you mean by electrical equipment testing?
Electrical equipment testing is a series of visual and electronic tests that are carried out on a piece of electrical equipment. If the equipment ‘passes’ testing, it is safe to use.
Electrical equipment testing reduces the risk of electric shock or fire in your building. In addition, it can help you fulfil your obligations under legislation like the Health & Safety at Work Act.
After testing, you will receive a certificate that shows you are compliant.
Is electrical equipment testing the same as PAT testing?
Yes. Electrical equipment testing is the modern term for PAT testing.
The 5th Edition of the IET Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment was published in September 2020. This document recommended that PAT testing be referred to as electrical equipment testing moving forward.
The change is because PAT testing, or portable appliance testing, is a misleading term. Many people think they only have to get portable electric equipment tested. However, the reality is that all electrical equipment, whether it is fixed or portable, should be checked.
What electrical equipment should be tested?
Who is responsible for electrical equipment testing?
In a commercial environment, the duty holder is responsible for electrical equipment testing. The duty holder can appoint a third party to carry out electrical equipment testing on their behalf. This third party is known as a ‘responsible person’.
The landlord is responsible for arranging electrical equipment testing in a residential environment.
How often should electrical equipment testing be carried out?
We’re often asked about electrical equipment testing frequency, and the honest answer is: it depends. For example, electrical equipment in a factory that is subject to a lot of wear and tear will need testing more often than equipment in a shop or an office.
A risk assessment is the best way to determine how often electrical equipment testing is carried out. By identifying which electrical equipment needs testing, how it is being used, and where it is being used, you can establish how frequently testing needs to occur.
If you’re not sure how often your electrical equipment should be tested, please get in touch; we’d be more than happy to advise.
Looking for an electrical equipment testing company near you?
Hawkesworth provides electrical equipment testing across the whole of the UK. Whether you need the monitors and PCs in your office checking, or the cooking equipment in your holiday cottage inspecting, we’re here to help.
Fully accredited and with a wealth of five-star reviews, we’re the electrical equipment testing company people trust.
