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Leeds 0113 235 1356
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Hamilton 01698 829 711
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Belfast 02890 830 302
What is portable appliance testing?
Portable appliance testing (PAT) is the term used to describe the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. Most electrical safety defects can be found by visual examination but some types of defect can only be found by testing.
However, it is essential to understand that visual examination is an essential part of the process because some types of electrical safety defect can't be detected by testing alone.
Health & Safety Executive
What is a PAT tester?
A PAT tester is used for portable appliance testing, verifying that the electrical safety and operation of these appliances are in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations.
Why calibrate PAT test equipment?
The IEE code of practice recommends calibration of a PAT tester be performed on an annual basis in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Howeverm for low usage equipment, the on-going accuracy of test equipment can be assessed using either a reference circuit or checkbox and records are maintained.
Which PAT testers can you calibrate?
Our three offices can calibrate any make and model of PAT tester. We are an approved service centre for both Seaward and Megger, two of the biggest manufacturers of PAT testers. We are also official distributors of Martindale, Kewtech and Metrel test equipment. We can calibrate battery and mains powered testers, manual and automatic, dual voltage (110 & 240V), and testers that can perform flash tests. As a Seaward authorised service centre we are also authorised to calibrate Clare safety testers.
My PAT tester has a calibration warning pop-up when turned on...
Most PAT testers from Seaward have a 'nag screen' which puts up a message on the screen when it needs calibrating. This is a counter which appears one year from when it was last calibrated.
In order to reset the 'nag screen' a password is required, which is only supplied to authorised Seaward dealers - like us. If you chose to have your PAT tester calibrated by a none-authorised calibration house they will not reset this counter and you will get a reminder every time you turn the machine on. We do not charge any more for this service, it is included in our calibration price.
Our PAT tester needs repairing - can you fix it?
Our manufacturer trained technicians can repair many faults in-house. We provide a free quotation before any work is undertaken, and will only proceed with a repair once we have your approval. If the tester needs to go back to the manufacturer we can usually provide you with a fixed price repair quote. We will arrange for the tester to be sent and returned to us after the repair.
What is the turnaround time?
This depends on the workload in our labs and whether the instrument requires any repairs. For calibrations only our standard lead time is 3 to 5 working days. If the instrument has to be sent to a third party for calibration it will be longer. Your local office will advise you of the anticipated turnaround time.
High insulation readings?
Old and worn leads can often give high earth continuity and insulation readings. We carry a range of the most popular EB leads in stock. If we don't have your particular models leads, we will be able to get them. We are also able to adjust many PAT testers without sending them back to the manufacturers.