August 2011

When PAT testing a kettle, it is important to perform the following tests; a visual, earth bond, insulation at 500 volts DC and a leakage test. Most modern kettles are jug type kettles, however you may come across older models with a detachable power cord. When testing a jug type kettle, the base and kettle should be tested as one...

We are often asked what the difference is between the legal duty of ‘absolute’ and ‘so far as is reasonably practicable’. In the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, there are certain duties imposed on employers, the self employed and employees in order to ensure that appropriate steps are taken to prevent the risk of death or injury from electricity. Often...

When PAT testing appliances it can be confusing, and sometimes difficult to remember, everything you learnt on you PAT testing course once you are starting out in your career. We often get asked about earth leakage and touch current testing and the difference between the two. Earth Leakage An earth leakage test for class I appliances is carried out in...

The huge number of failures and observations on this small number of tested industry items is a worrying result and suggests that the standards written to support the UK electrical equipment safety regulations have either been misunderstood or not followed correctly. The issues discovered concerning the internal construction of appliances is a big concern and this is especially worrying when...