Portable Appliance User Checks

The user is limited to an external visual inspection without any dismantling of the equipment.

The user should disconnect the equipment, if appropriate, by switching off and unplugging the item of equipment.

If equipment is found to be damaged or faulty, an assessment should be made by a responsible person as to the suitability of the equipment for the use or the location.

 

Plug

Not loose in socket-outlet and can be removed from socket-outlet without difficulty

Free from cracks or damage

Free from any sign of overheating

Flexible cable secure in its anchorage

If the plug is of the non-rewireable type or moulded-on type, the cable grip should be checked by firmly pulling and twisting the cable. No movement should be apparent.

Pins not bent

Pins preferably sleeved, particularly where young children may touch the plug

No cardboard label on the bottom

Plug does not rattle

Flex or Cable

Good condition

Free from cuts, fraying and damage

Not in a location where it could be damage

Not too long, too short or in any other way unsatisfactory

No joints or connections that may render it unsuitable for use, such as taped joints

Only one flex connected into one plug (a 13A plug is designed for one cable only – not two)

Not too tightly bent at any place

Not run under a carpet

Not a trip hazard

An extension lead should be inspected throughout its length. This will mean uncoiling coiled-type extensions

Socket-outlet or flex outlet

Free from cracks or other damage

No sign of over heating

Shutter mechanism of socket-outlet functioning

Not loose (i.e. properly secured)

Switch, if fitted, operates correctly

Adaptor or extension lead fitted with an RCD

Inspect device and verify it has a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30mA

Check device by plugging it in, switching it on and then pushing the test button. The RCD should operate and disconnect the supply from the socket-outlet(s).

Appliance or item of equipment

Free from cracks, chemical or corrosion damage to the case, or damage that could result in access to live parts

Equipment is operated with protective covers in place and doors closed

Able to be used safely

Switches on and off correctly

Works properly

Sufficient Space to permit cooling. Not positioned so close to walls and partitions that there is inadequate spacing for ventilation and cooling.

No sign of overheating

Not likely to overheat. No books or files on top of a computer or towels over a convector heater.

100 W lamps should not be fitted in a 60 W luminarie.

Cups and plants are not placed where their contents could spill into equipment

Environment

Equipment suitable for its environment

No indiscriminate use of extension leads or multiway adapters

Equipment normally not left on overnight

Suitability

Equipment suitable for the work it is required to carry out

Specialist PAT Testing - Professional - Reliable - Competitive