A question we get asked quite a lot. A client has purchased several new items (typically new PCs) between our scheduled
A question we get asked quite a lot. A client has purchased several new items (typically new PCs) between our scheduled PAT Testing visits do they have to arrange to get these items tested?
It is time consuming for the client and they don’t want to have to call in an Electrical Compliance company before they can use a new item.
Some clients have their own test equipment for such an eventuality but do new items require testing? As is typical in these cases the guidelines do not give unequivocal guidance. We suggest the first port of call for a client is to consult their corporate policy and risk assessment and see if that offers any guidance.
If that doesn’t help then their does not appear to be any specific requirement to carry out Portable Appliance Testing before the item goes into service. The Electricity at Work Regulations requires that reasonable practicable steps are taken to prevent danger. If the item has a CE mark from the manufacturer that would indicate that it complies with all relevant EU Directives which include electrical safety.
So if the equipment is CE marked and you can satisfy yourself that it has not been damaged in transit or installation then it should be electrically safe. To ensure it is CE marked and not damaged during the transit or installation then the client should carry out a formal visual inspection on the item. We would also advise recording the inspection just in case.
However as stated previously some organisations do carry out inspection and testing on new items. This also has the advantage of giving the item an asset number and including it onto the PAT Testing database. The organisation can then demonstrate that new items are safe and registered onto the system.
