EURO PAT The Portable Appliance Testing Specialists
 
EURO PAT Ltd - Portable Appliance Testing Specialists in Hotels, Offices, Care Homes, Retail, Rental properties, Bars, Restaurants, Workshops etc
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User Checks & Good Housekeeping practices
User Checks

User checks form an essential part of the overall PAT testing process.

Users are the people that come into close and regular contact with the appliances. They therefore also have a responsibility (to themselves and others) to check the portable appliances that they are using on a regular basis. This may be every time that they use it or at the very least on a weekly basis and we would recommend that this should become a part of staff training policy.

Please note that users should not be opening appliances or plugs or undertaking any investigations beyond their level of competency. This should obviously be referred to the experts.

Instead, the User Check should form a “common sense” check that the appliance is safe to use. This is an informal process and no record is made unless the appliance is found to be unsatisfactory. The procedure for a user check would cover

(Make sure that the appliance is unplugged from the electrical supply before checking any flexes, plugs or the appliance casings etc)

  •  Inspection of Flex – is it in good condition? Is it free from any damage i.e. cuts, fraying,  melting? Is it too long or short?
  •  The Plug – Is it free from cracks or damage? Are there any signs of overheating? Is the  cable securely fixed?
  •  The Socket Outlet – are there any signs of overheating? Is it securely fixed? Is it free from  cracks or damage?
  •  The Portable Appliance – does it actually work as it should? Is there any damage to the  appliance that may expose live parts? Are there strange noises or smells coming from the  appliance?
  •  Environment – is the appliance suitable for its purpose i.e. can it be used outdoors or in  damp conditions etc?
  •  Suitability – is the appliance suitable for the work for which it is required – is it powerful  enough or too powerful or is it just designed for occasional use?

If an appliance is found to be faulty then the following procedure should be followed

  1. Make sure the appliance is switched off and unplugged from the power supply
  2. Clearly label the appliance to identify that it must not be used.
  3. Report the fault to the responsible person.
 
Good Housekeeping practices

The following should also be followed to improve safety

  •  Cables should be located where that they cannot be damaged – i.e. caught in doors or  trapped under appliances / furnishings.
  •  Space should be allowed for cables and connections.
  •  Protective covers should be used for appliances and cables
  •   Unprotected cables should not be run under carpets.
  •  Appliances should be able to be easily and quickly disconnected / isolated from the power  supply. These points should be accessible to users
  •  Appliances should have sufficient space to allow ventilation i.e. fridges, microwaves
  •  Appliances should be protected from potential water spillages.
  •  Use of extension leads should be kept to a minimum. Where necessary, they should be the  correct length and rating for the job and switched off after use.


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