Question 1

What is PAT testing?

Accepted Answer

PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is a structured process for checking that portable electrical equipment is safe to use. It involves three steps. Step 1 is user checks - the day-to-day visual checks that equipment users should carry out themselves before using an appliance. Step 2 is a formal visual inspection carried out by a trained, competent person - this is the most important step and catches around 90% of faults. Step 3 is an electronic test with a calibrated PAT tester to measure parameters such as earth continuity and insulation resistance. O.L.B PAT Testing carries out Steps 2 and 3.

Question 2

Is PAT testing a legal requirement?

Accepted Answer

PAT testing itself isn't a specific legal requirement, but employers are legally required to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. In practice, regular PAT testing is the standard way to demonstrate compliance - and most employers' liability insurers require it as a condition of cover.

Question 3

How often does equipment need to be tested?

Accepted Answer

It is recommended that PAT testing is carried out yearly for most businesses. The exact frequency can vary depending on the type of equipment and environment - construction sites and high-risk settings may require more frequent testing - but an annual test is the standard for most offices and commercial premises. We'll advise on the right interval for your site and record it on your certificate.

Question 4

What happens if an appliance fails?

Accepted Answer

Any appliance that fails - either the visual inspection or the electronic tests - gets a FAIL tag applied on the day. We explain exactly what the fault is, so you know whether it can be repaired or whether the item needs to be disposed of. We never just remove an item without telling you why.

Question 5

What do I receive after the test?

Accepted Answer

Every item we test gets a physical PASS or FAIL tag applied on the day. Within 48 hours, we email you a full digital certificate listing every item tested, its individual result, the test date and the recommended retest date. This is the document your insurer or auditor will want to see.

Question 6

How much does PAT testing cost?

Accepted Answer

We charge a set fee for the first 10 items, with individual per-item pricing after that - so you only ever pay for what you need. Volume discounts are available for larger jobs, typically from 300 items or more. There are no hidden call-out fees. Get in touch with your item count and we'll come back with a straightforward quote.

Question 7

How quickly can you book a test?

Accepted Answer

Booking times vary depending on our current availability. We do our best to accommodate requests as quickly as possible and also offer early morning, evening and weekend slots for businesses that can't have testing done during normal hours. Get in touch and we'll confirm the earliest available date.

Question 8

Do you need access to every room?

Accepted Answer

We'll need access to wherever the appliances are located. We work efficiently and cleanly around your team, and can usually test most sites with minimal disruption to your day. If you have restricted-access areas, just let us know in advance.

Question 9

Do you cover my area?

Accepted Answer

We're based in Waterlooville and regularly cover Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester, Hampshire, Surrey and West Sussex. If you're not sure whether we cover your location, get in touch - we often travel further for larger jobs.

Question 10

Will you remind me when my next test is due?

Accepted Answer

Yes - that's one of the things that sets us apart. We record your retest date when we issue your certificate, and we'll contact you when it's coming up. You don't need to set a reminder or chase us. We handle the follow-up so you can focus on your business.

Question 11

Are you insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. O.L.B PAT Testing is fully insured and our engineers are DBS checked, so we can access any site - including schools, nurseries and other sensitive environments.

Question 12

What's the difference between a visual inspection and a full PAT test?

Accepted Answer

A visual inspection checks the physical condition of the appliance - cable, plug, casing and connections - without connecting any test equipment. A full PAT test includes the visual inspection plus electronic measurements. Both produce a certificate, but the full PAT test provides more comprehensive evidence of safety.

Question 13

Do you carry out microwave emissions testing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We use a calibrated microwave survey meter to test microwave ovens for radiation leakage. Microwave leakage is invisible and can only be detected with specialist equipment - it's particularly important in commercial kitchens and catering environments. We measure leakage levels against the recognised safety threshold and provide a written result as part of your compliance records.

Common questions about PAT testing

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