What does a 'PAT' test consist of?
Firstly, each item is given a thorough visual inspection to check the following:
Signs of damage to the lead (i.e. cuts or abrasions)
Damage to the plug
Taped Joints
Cable Grip
Suitability of the equipments location
Damage to the outer cover
Any obvious loose parts or screws
Signs of overheating
More formal inspection of the plug (if required)
This is then followed by a machine based test which checks for things not visible to the naked eye. These are:
Bond Test (25A/200mA(Rpe)
Insulation Test
Substitute Leakage Current Test
Touch Current Test
Load/Leakage Current Test
IEC Lead Test*
PELV Test
* IEC leads are tested separately as they can be used for more than one item.