PAT Testing Training
- Description
- Curriculum
- FAQ
- Notice
- Reviews

This Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) Online Course is designed to provide learners with the knowledge and skills needed to conduct PAT Testing safely and in compliance with the latest IET Code of Practice (5th Edition). Whether you are an employer, facility manager, electrician, or individual responsible for electrical safety, this course will guide you through PAT Testing procedures, appliance classifications, testing methods, and regulatory requirements.
Who is This Course For?
✅ Electricians & Technicians – To expand their skillset and offer PAT Testing as a service.
✅ Facilities & Maintenance Managers – To ensure workplace compliance with electrical safety standards.
✅ Landlords & Rental Property Owners – To meet legal safety obligations for electrical appliances.
✅ Office & Site Managers – To conduct risk assessments and ensure equipment safety.
✅ Anyone Responsible for Electrical Safety – Ideal for beginners or those looking to refresh their PAT Testing knowledge.
Key Features of This Course
✔ Fully Online & Self-Paced – Learn at your own convenience.
✔ Downloadable PAT Testing Templates & Checklists – Practical resources for use in real-world testing.
✔ Based on IET Code of Practice (5th Edition) – Ensuring compliance with the latest industry standards.
✔ Certification – Printable Certificate of Completion upon passing the final exam.
Why Take This Course?
✅ Ensure compliance with UK electrical safety laws and workplace regulations.
✅ Reduce workplace risks by identifying and preventing electrical faults.
✅ Gain confidence in conducting PAT Testing correctly and efficiently.
✅ Save costs by handling in-house PAT Testing instead of outsourcing.
✅ Boost your career with recognized PAT Testing skills.
Course Requirements
✔ No prior experience needed – ideal for beginners and professionals alike.
✔ Willingness to learn and apply safety procedures.
-
1What is PAT Testing?
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is the process of inspecting and testing electrical appliances to ensure they are safe to use. It is a key part of electrical maintenance and workplace safety, helping to prevent electrical accidents, fires, and shocks.
-
2Legal Requirements & Regulations for PAT Testing
Electrical appliances in workplaces, rental properties, and public spaces must be maintained in a safe condition to protect people from electrical hazards.
-
3Categories of Electrical Equipment for PAT Testing
Before performing PAT Testing, it’s essential to understand the different types of electrical equipment. Each category has different safety risks and testing requirements.
-
4Understanding Electrical Basics
Before carrying out PAT Testing, you need a basic understanding of how electricity works, the different types of appliances, and the potential dangers of faulty electrical equipment.
-
5Understanding Electrical Hazards
Electricity is an essential part of everyday life, but faulty electrical appliances and poor maintenance can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Many workplace accidents occur due to neglecting electrical safety precautions.
-
6Conducting a Risk Assessment for PAT Testing
A risk assessment is a systematic process of identifying potential hazards, evaluating risks, and deciding on measures to reduce or eliminate them.
-
7Equipment Safety Before Testing
Before conducting PAT Testing, it is essential to visually inspect electrical equipment. Many faults can be identified without needing electrical tests, ensuring that unsafe appliances are removed immediately before causing harm.
-
8Mini Quiz (Module 2)
-
9Overview of the 5th Edition Code of Practice
The IET Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment (5th Edition) is the official guidance document for Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) in the UK. It provides best practices and standardized procedures for inspecting and testing electrical equipment to ensure safety and compliance with UK regulations.
-
10Frequency of PAT Testing
The IET Code of Practice (5th Edition) no longer recommends fixed PAT Testing intervals. Instead, the frequency of testing should be determined by a risk assessment, which considers factors such as:
✔ Type of appliance (Class I, Class II, Class III).
✔ How often the appliance is used (Daily vs. occasionally).
✔ Work environment (Harsh vs. controlled conditions).
✔ Previous test results (Has the appliance failed before?). -
11The Inspection & Testing Process According to IET
The IET Code of Practice (5th Edition) outlines a step-by-step process for PAT Testing.
-
12Mini Quiz (Module 3)
-
13Required PAT Testing Equipment
To perform Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) correctly, you need the right tools and equipment.
-
14Different Types of Equipment That Can Be PAT Tested (Beyond Standard 3-Pin Plugs)
While most people associate PAT testing with standard 3-pin plug appliances, many other electrical devices require testing, including 110V site equipment and 3-phase (4-pin and 5-pin) machinery.
-
15Step-by-Step PAT Testing Process
PAT Testing follows a structured approach to ensure electrical appliances are tested safely and effectively.
-
16Record Keeping in PAT Testing
Maintaining accurate PAT testing records is essential for compliance, safety, and tracking appliance status.
-
17Common PAT Testing Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Even experienced PAT Testers can make mistakes that lead to unsafe appliances being passed or safe appliances being failed. These mistakes can invalidate the test results, cause accidents, or lead to legal consequences.
-
18Mini Quiz (Module 4)
-
19PAT Testing Computers & Office Equipment
Computers and office equipment are generally low-risk appliances, but electrical faults can still occur due to:
✔ Loose connections or internal faults in power supplies.
✔ Overheating from dust buildup or poor ventilation.
✔ Frayed power cables and overloaded extension leads.
✔ Incorrect fuse ratings that may cause overheating or fire risks. -
20PAT Testing Kitchen Appliances & Catering Equipment
Kitchen appliances and catering equipment are at higher risk of electrical faults due to:
✔ Frequent use – Appliances like kettles, microwaves, and coffee machines are used daily.
✔ Moisture exposure – Risk of water contact causing electrical short circuits.
✔ Heat exposure – Prolonged heat can damage insulation and wiring.
✔ Heavy power consumption – High-wattage appliances put strain on electrical systems. -
21PAT Testing Power Tools & Industrial Equipment
Power tools and industrial electrical equipment are high-risk appliances due to:
✔ Frequent movement & handling – Increased wear and tear on cables and plugs.
✔ Harsh working environments – Exposure to dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures.
✔ Heavy power consumption – Higher risk of overheating and electrical faults.
✔ Potential for electric shocks – Damaged casings or worn insulation can expose live components. -
22Mini Quiz (Module 5)
✔ Electricians & Technicians who want to expand their skills.
✔ Facilities & Maintenance Managers responsible for electrical safety.
✔ Landlords & Rental Property Owners ensuring tenant safety.
✔ Office & Site Managers who need to conduct in-house PAT Testing.
✔ Anyone responsible for workplace electrical safety.
Module 1: Introduction to PAT Testing
Module 2: Electrical Hazards & Risk Assessment
Module 3: Appliance Classification & Testing Standards
Module 4: Conducting PAT Testing (Step-by-Step Guide)
Module 5: PAT Testing Different Appliance Types
At the end of the course, there is a final exam to assess your knowledge.
✔ Risk Assessment Templates
✔ PAT Testing Log Sheets
✔ Infographics & Cheat Sheets
✔ You will receive a Certificate of Completion.
✔ You can apply your knowledge to conduct in-house PAT Testing.
✔ You may choose to complete practical certification if required for your role.
Notice & Disclaimer
Legal and Regulatory Variations
This course provides theoretical training on Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) based on the IET Code of Practice – In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment (5th Edition). While this guidance aligns with UK health and safety regulations, other countries may have different legal requirements for PAT Testing. Always consult local regulations and workplace policies to ensure compliance with applicable electrical safety standards.
Practical Training Requirement
This course delivers comprehensive theoretical instruction on PAT Testing, including:
✔ Electrical safety principles
✔ Appliance classification
✔ Testing procedures
✔ Risk assessments
✔ Interpreting PAT Tester results
📌 However, this course does NOT include hands-on practical training or official qualification assessments.
To perform PAT Testing commercially, individuals may need practical certification and competency assessment as per industry and employer requirements. Learners are encouraged to seek additional practical training if required for their role.
Employer and Employee Responsibilities
While this course outlines best practices for PAT Testing, it is the responsibility of employers and duty holders to:
✔ Conduct risk assessments for electrical safety.
✔ Provide necessary training and equipment for PAT Testing.
✔ Ensure compliance with legal obligations in their workplace.
✔ Keep accurate PAT Testing records and schedule retests as required.
Employees conducting PAT Testing should:
✔ Follow company policies and safety protocols.
✔ Report any electrical hazards or test failures.
✔ Use PAT Testing equipment correctly and responsibly.
📌 Passing this course does NOT automatically authorize learners to conduct PAT Testing in a professional or regulated environment without additional competency assessment.
Limitations of the Course
This course is designed to improve knowledge and awareness of PAT Testing but is not a substitute for:
❌ Official industry-recognized qualifications or licensing.
❌ Legal consultation on electrical safety laws.
❌ Hands-on emergency training or electrical fault repair certification.
📌 If you are unsure about your legal obligations regarding PAT Testing, consult a qualified electrician or health & safety professional.
Updates and Revisions
PAT Testing standards, electrical safety regulations, and technologies continue to evolve. The content of this course is accurate at the time of publication, but learners should:
✔ Stay informed about new regulatory updates.
✔ Refer to the latest IET Code of Practice for any changes.
✔ Keep up to date with new PAT Testing equipment and industry best practices.
No Warranty of Fitness
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the course material, the provider:
✔ Does not guarantee that following this course alone will ensure legal compliance in all cases.
✔ Assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or misinterpretations of regulations.
✔ Is not liable for any damages, injuries, or losses resulting from the misuse of PAT Testing knowledge.
📌 Learners should always apply professional judgment and consult certified professionals when assessing high-risk electrical environments.
User Discretion
The course provider assumes no liability for how learners apply this information. All users should:
✔ Conduct due diligence before implementing PAT Testing in a workplace.
✔ Seek professional guidance when necessary.
✔ Follow all safety protocols when handling electrical equipment.
Acknowledgment
By proceeding with this course, you acknowledge and accept this Notice & Disclaimer and agree to use the materials responsibly for educational purposes only.
📌 If you have any questions regarding this disclaimer, please contact the course provider before enrolling.