In order to ensure the safety of portable electrical appliances, it is necessary to have Portable Appliance Testing done on a regular basis. The legal requirements relating to the use of electrical equipment are contained in the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and require that electrical equipment and systems must be maintained, so far as is reasonably practical, to prevent danger.
That includes equipment that is either hand-held or hand-operated while connected to the supply or is intended to be moved or likely to be moved. Any extension leads, plugs, sockets, and cord sets that supply the power are also classed as portable equipment. This also includes appliances which are fixed such as in public areas of hotels or changing rooms, like hair dryers. The electrical supply to the equipment is assumed to be of a voltage that can give a fatal electric shock.
There are certain things to bear in mind. For example, equipment that is used more should be tested more frequently, for the simple reason that it is more likely to get damaged. If people report any damage to regularly used equipment, then there is less chance of a problem. However, if equipment regularly receives abuse or damage, then PAT testing should be carried out more often.
Furthermore, the type of equipment that is being used also has an effect. Hand-held appliances are more likely to suffer damage than those which are stationary, even if they are described as portable.
No comments:
Post a Comment