PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) is the process of checking electrical appliances for safety through visual inspections and electrical tests to make sure an electrical appliance is safe to continue using.

The process involves a visual inspection by a competent person where they check the plug, fuse, flexible cable, appliance itself and markings to make sure they all meet these standards. If not, a repair may be possible.

The visual inspection isn’t just to make sure these standards are met but to check for any damage from use, or DIY repairs, etc.

Once the engineer is satisfied the visual aspect is acceptable, tests may be carried out.

Some appliances, considered to be double insulated, may be tested to check the integrity of the insulation.

Other appliances that also rely on earth protection, will be further tested for continuity of the earthing functions.

Also leads with an earth wire, will also be checked for Polarity.

PAT testing, ISITEE or EET depending on what you want to call it is a vital part of electrical safety, combining visual checks, and electrical testing to ensure appliances are safe to continue using.