Portable Appliance Testing Procedure and Cost

The Testing Procedure

Visual Inspection

Formal visual inspections should only be carried out by persons competent to do so. The results of the inspection must be documented.

The following must be considered when carrying out the inspection

Suitability of the equipment/environment

The equipment should be assessed for its suitability for the environment or the nature of the work being undertaken. When the work environment is harsh or hazardous particular care needs to be taken when selecting the equipment and assessing the frequency of inspection and testing.

Good Housekeeping

A check should be made to ensure the equipment is installed and is being operated in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. Notwithstanding the manufacturers instructions, the following are examples of items which should be checked:

(a) Cables located so as to avoid damage
(b) Means of disconnection/isolation readily accessible
(c) Adequate equipment ventilation
(d) Cups, plants and work material correctly placed to avoid spillage
(e) Equipment positioned to avoid strain on cord
(f) Equipment is being operated with the covers in place and any doors are closed
(g) Indiscriminate use of multi-way adaptors and trailing sockets is avoided
(h) No unprotected cables run under carpets

Disconnection of equipment

The means of isolation from the electricity supply must be readily accessible to the user, i.e. in normal circumstances it must be possible to reach the plug and socket without to much difficulty.

The condition of the equipment

Prior to the commencement of the users should be asked if they are aware of any faults and if the equipment works correctly. The following items need to be inspected:

(a) The flexible cable
(b) The socket outlet, if known
(c) The appliance
(d) The plug head

Some of the following checks may not be possible for equipment fitted with a non-rewirable plug

(i) Check detachable power cords to Class 1 equipment
(ii) Identify signs of overheating
(iii) Internal inspection; cord security, polarity, connections
(iv) If non-rewirable plug; cord security, burning odours
(v) Correct size fuse fitted, BS marked, ASTA marked
(vi) Security of plug cover
(vii) Check the flexible cable connections and anchorage at the equipment, if practical

Electrical Testing

The next & main stage of testing requires the use of dedicated portable appliance test equipment and involves the following tests.

(i) Earth bond continuity tests
(ii) Insulation resistance testing
(iii) Functional checks

Cost of Appliance Testing

How much does it cost?

Not very much at all from, 75p per appliance tested, prices are dependant on the number of appliances, the more you have the less you are charged per appliance.

It just makes sense.

Your business, your investments and your peace of mind are worth it.

So don't get burned!

Call Barry at "S.E.T" today and ensure your safety.

01527 833964

07748595956

info@sherwoodelectricaltesting.co.uk

or click here for a free online quote.

we also have very special rates for small, self employed mobile trades & businesses that have a small number of appliances and can bring their equipment to us for testing *.

*(by appointment only, terms are cash , you will receive your invoice & test report the same day).

Jump to....... Cost