Public comment on the 5th edition In case you missed it last week, over in our Facebook group Tim posted an update on the Code of Practice 5th edition progress. If you didn't know already Tim has been actively involved with the IET in the writing of the new book for a couple of years now. The 5th edition is currently available for public consultation. This is your chance to read through it and query any [...]
I thought it would be a good idea to explain to you, our members and supporters, what we’re currently involved in; so that you can see what we’re up to and see how we’re progressing forward. In 2013 the PAT testing Network was established with the aim of attempting to connect people operating in the PAT industry from all over the country, and then together raise standards across the network. This worked but restrictions [...]
"Second-hand" hops in Scotland that sell electrical appliances for re-use are now required to hold a stamp of approval from Resolve . Resolve is the quality standards scheme in Scotland for shops that sell items for reuse. This seems like a really good idea, read the full article from The National: "SCOTLAND’S second-hand shopping scene is thriving, with 150 stores and organisations now holding a stamp of approval from Revolve, the quality standard scheme for [...]
To be "portable" means for an appliance to not be part of the building or fixed system, meaning that it needs to be able to be easily disconnected from the main power supply and moved to another location. So that "PAT test" only relates to appliances that can be unplugged. A simple definition would be: you should PAT test any appliance fitted with, or intended to be fitted with a plug, to be plugged [...]
What is an RCD? An RCD, or residual current device, is a life-saving device which is designed to prevent you from getting a fatal electric shock if you come into contact with a live wire or current. RCDs offer a level of personal protection that ordinary fuses and circuit-breakers cannot provide. The majority of our leads have an option to add in an RCD, to provide this invaluable level of protection. How does it work? [...]
PAT Testing in a holiday let In Cornwall, a lot of the County relies heavily on the tourism industry. Since we started testing in the South West, each year, around 30-50% of our business has been through holiday lets alone. There are some Letting agents who insist on a PAT Certificate before they will advertise and let out their property and others that do not. Those that do, are a great source of regular work [...]
Guidance on Phone Chargers British plugs & sockets are amongst the safest in the world. This is because the British BS1363 standard has been around for decades, also due to laws like the Plugs & Sockets Act 1994. In fact, it is illegal in the UK to sell an electrical item with a plug that does not conform to BS1363.They should not have a CE mark on them. However, the law becomes a very [...]
Insurance, what do I need? As a sole trader starting out, it would be worth visiting your local broker to discuss exactly what you require with your insurance. Most start with Public Liability of around £2million, however as your business grows it’s recommended to review your insurance year on year (unless unusual circumstances arise, such as working in dangerous places), then you must notify your insurance to make sure you have adequate cover. [...]
Class II Flex, Clear or same colour flex You may occasionally come across Class II flex where it is either transparent or the same colour all the way through. This does not necessarily mean it’s automatically a fail due to no visible Live Phase (Brown) or Neutral (Blue) to distinguish terminal position within the plug. This type of flex is mainly found on modern Class II table/bedside lamps/luminaires. As a lamp (bulb) can [...]
Product Recalls If you’re not already doing it, adding product recall to your business could help your USP and help your customers safety. Most people (and we’ve all done it) go out and buy that electrical appliance but take no notice of the “register my appliance” card in the box. Well it is there for a good reason and it’s not just trying to upsell you some extra insurance. Several PAT firms are registering [...]
