PAT testing is not a job title protected by one universal licence. What matters is whether the person carrying out the particular inspection or test is competent to do it safely and correctly.
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What does “competent” mean in practice?
HSE guidance says the person carrying out combined inspection and testing should have sufficient knowledge, training and experience, together with access to further information and advice where necessary.
Can ordinary staff carry out user checks?
Yes. Simple user checks can often be carried out by equipment users who have been shown what obvious signs of damage to look for and what to do if they find a fault.
Who can carry out formal visual inspection?
HSE says formal visual inspections can often be carried out by a member of staff who has enough information and knowledge to know what to look for, understands what is acceptable and knows the limits of their competence.
What about combined inspection and electrical testing?
This requires greater competence. The person must know how to use the test equipment correctly, understand the equipment being tested and interpret the results appropriately.
Does the tester need to be an electrician?
Not necessarily for every PAT task. However, electrical repairs, fixed-installation work and more complex electrical work may require a different level of competence and should not be confused with routine portable-equipment inspection.
What should a business ask a PAT testing contractor?
- What training and experience do the testers have?
- What equipment do they use?
- How are failed appliances handled and reported?
- What information is included in the final report?
- Can they explain why a particular test or interval is appropriate?
Official HSE guidance
HSE’s HSG107 explains the competence needed for user checks, formal visual inspection and combined testing. HSE also notes that people carrying out electrical testing work would normally be expected to have greater knowledge and suitable training.
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