Lockable Socket Covers Use lockable socket covers to protect important plugs from being accidentally switched off. Great for server systems or computers you don't want turned off by accident. Also great to protect children at home. Everywhere we go there is at least one plug with a post it note taped to it with the big letters "DO NOT SWITCH OFF". Someone somewhere is terrified that the all important [...]
12 Reasons why electric shock accidents involve portable appliances so often (number 8 may shock you!) Reasons why electric shock accidents involve portable appliances One of the biggest problems in any workplace is the use of portable electrical equipment. Referred to as portable appliances, electrical equipment fitted with a plug presents a high risk of becoming damaged and thus dangerous. Portable appliances include any electrical appliances that can be [...]
How often should pat testing be done in an office? How often should pat testing be done in an office?PAT tests in offices may not need doing as often as you may think. Many offices get their appliances tested every year but that may be too often. If you do a risk assessment you will find that most if not all appliances won't need doing that often. Stationery appliances such [...]
Does new electrical equipment need PAT testing? Does new equipment need PAT testing? It is not normally necessary to test new items of electrical equipment, because the manufacturer has already tested it, but they should be inspected to make sure there is no damage and that it meets British Safety Standards (as it may have been built incorrectly, abroad) before first use. New electrical equipment built within the EU and labelled with [...]
6 ways to avoid an electrical fire Don't leave washing machines, tumble driers and dishwashers running when you're out or asleep Don't leave portable heaters switched on and unattended Don't overload sockets with too many plugs Register your electrical products and check for recalls Always follow the manufacturers guidance when using appliances Don't buy fake electrical goods or cheap imports Don't use damaged electrical [...]
Join DRA PAT Testing PAT Tester (Full time / Permanent) Location: Newcastle upon Tyne / North TynesideCompany: DRA PAT TestingSalary: Competitive, dependent on experience (training provided)Start Date: ASAP About the Role We are looking to recruit a reliable, conscientious PAT Tester to join our growing business.No previous PAT testing experience or formal qualifications are required — full training will be provided. This role suits someone [...]
How long does a PAT test Certificate last? How long does a PAT Test Certificate last? The confirmation that your appliance is safe lasts as long as it takes to put the label on, plug it back in and wait until it gets damaged; how long the certificate lasts, kind of depends on that too. Some say the certificate is only as good as the moment the test is done, so that [...]
Please don't use these electric socket covers These plastic 'socket protectors' or 'socket protective covers' are not made to any British Standard and the pin dimensions tend not to comply with BS1363, which often results in internal damage to the socket outlet contacts or their own pins braking off and getting stuck in the socket. For this reason they are not recommend. But also for this reason, the PAT engineer [...]
Checking if an appliance has been recalled Grenfell was a shocking incident (some info), and what it showed us was that electrical appliances do catch fire, they can cause major issues and they should be maintained better. It’s led to all kinds of campaigns and awareness raising such as the need for registering appliances and checking appliances against recall notices - how many appliances are still in rented properties that the landlord doesn’t [...]
What to do with personal electrical equipment staff bring into work When staff bring personal electrical equipment to work, you as the employer, need to be sure that that equipment is safe to use and especially safe to plug in. If the equipment they bring in is faulty or not to British Standards, not only could it lead to them having an accident, but it could present a risk to your business, such [...]
