Methodology

Site Approach 
The DRA PAT Testing engineer(s) will introduce herself/himself to the client /client’s representative, Sign visitors’ book /contractors log and explain the purpose and nature of the work to be carried out. Our engineer would then ask for a tour of the facility before commencing work, to highlight any sensitive areas or equipment that cannot be turned off; also to discuss the logistics of the task in hand such as shutting down computersWe request at this point any Health & Safety inductions should be given to our engineer(s)
Hazards should be pointed out to our engineer(s) and procedures given for any emergency’s such as fire/first aid etc.

DRA Standards

The inspection and testing shall be carried out in accordance with the requirements of the following regulations and publications:

  • Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
  • Health & Safety at Work Act of 1974
  • Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
  • IEE Code of Practice for the in-service Inspection and Testing of Portable Electrical Equipment 4th Edition
  • PATTA working standards
Identification of equipment
Every piece of electrical equipment will be allocated a unique ID number. This will be used to cross reference test results to the certificate supplied. An asset register of equipment will then be produced to include the following:
  • ID number
  • Description
  • Make or other notes
  • Location in which the appliance/asset is kept/used
  • Date of test
Visual Inspection
A visual inspection of the appliance shall be carried out prior to any testing. The inspection includes the following: 
  • Socket Outlet is there any evidence of overheating, cracks or damage?
  • Plug, is the flexible cable secure, are the pins insulated, is it free from cracks, or damage and signs of overheating?
  • Flex is in good condition, free from cuts, fraying or damage? Appliance does it work? (operators to disclose this information to our engineer(s) as they may not be trained to operate all types of equipment).
  • Is it free from damage?
  • Can it be used safely?
  • In addition, the visual inspection will check that the means of disconnection from the mains supply is also readily accessible and that wherever possible, flexible cords are positioned so that they do not present a hazard.
  • All minor faults identified during the visual inspection, such as incorrectly rated fuses, damaged 13amp plugs, loose connections will be rectified prior to the testing procedure. (Where any appliance cannot be isolated from the mains supply, a thorough visual inspection will be carried out).
Testing
Subject to a satisfactory visual inspection, the following sequences of test are carried out –
  • Class I appliances only Earth Continuity & Insulation Resistance,
  • Class II appliances Insulation Resistance
Report
Upon completion a report is produced usually within 7 working days listing the appliances tested, the results of the tests performed, and details of any remedial repairs necessary. [where necessary] We also provide the engineers observations on all failed equipment or areas for improvement.

In addition to the above, we now have in place a control procedure to reduce cross contamination of biological health hazards

Procedure to reduce risk of cross contamination of viruses and bacteria.

DRA PAT Testing Ltd and their employees are actively increasing their vigilance and bio security to protect not only ourselves but others. Our staff and engineers will follow this guidance when going about our daily work, this is not an exhaustive policy and a common-sense approach will be implemented. Any uncertainty, the office should be contacted immediately.

Carry and use the following on a regular basis:

  • Disposable gloves – making sure they are disposed of safely
  • Hand sanitiser/wipes or gel – use often
  • Hygienic wipes – use on surfaces before you touch them
  • Small disposable bags (for disposing of the above items)

Before accessing a property or business:

  • Check that the occupier or people in the property do not have any signs or symptoms associated with Covid-19 or have returned from a visit abroad.
  • Check that they are not self-isolating. You can do this by either calling them beforehand or knocking on the door and stepping back before they answer or speak to them through the door.
  • If they answer yes to the above, inform them at this time you will not be able to complete the work and we will rebook the testing in at least 21 days later.

When we are in the property:

  • Ask the occupiers to either remain in another room for the duration of your work or respect at least a 2-meter distance from you.
  • Do not accept any offers of a drink/snack.
  • Use wipes on surfaces prior to working on or around them including the base and keyboard of your test equipment.
  • When work is complete inform the tenant/occupier. Do not shake hands.
  • Immediately after you have left, remove your gloves using the inside out method, place in your tie bag ready for disposal. Then sanitise or wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.

Reporting:

  • If you have been refused entry to enter please advise the office as soon as possible.
  • If you have forgotten to carry out any of the above, please advise the office.
  • If you run out of gloves, hand sanitiser or wipes please pick and replenish from the office or store/supplier if you are near one.
For further information or to arrange an no-obligation quote, please call 

We have available risk assessment and method statement (RAMS) and other health and safety documents, on request. 

We are also able to provide copies of insurance, DBS and CSCS.