Test Equipment
Fixing up new testing capabilities
FIXED appliance testing is oſten overlooked by business owners – but as electrical testing expert Seaward explains, it should be an essential part of your regular electrical testing routine.
means that the testing of fixed appliances is oſten overlooked altogether. While PAT only covers individual items such as kettles, microwaves and computers, fixed appliance testing extends to any electrical equipment which is permanently wired into the building. And unlike PAT tests on portable equipment which are relatively quick and simple to carry out, fixed appliances such as hand dryers, storage heaters and cookers can pose a logistical challenge due to the installation’s fixed wiring.
T
But that doesn’t mean a simple visual inspection is enough – they should still be subjected to a full combined inspection at test intervals determined by a risk assessment. Kevin Smith, Test And Measurement Category Manager at Seaward, said:
“It’s easy to take for granted that the fixed appliances that we use daily at work and home are safe, but just like any electrical item they are subject to wear and tear. “Many faults can’t be detected during a visual test – despite them being
he lack of clarity on whether fixed appliance tests should be carried out with PAT tests or when the fixed installation electrical installation condition report (EICR) is completed
potentially very dangerous. A loose connection or damaged wire can cause a serious fire, so we really can’t underestimate the importance of carrying out thorough testing on these items, just as we do with portable appliances.” So what are some things to bear in mind when carrying out fixed appliance testing?
The right tool for the job Many people who are trained and qualified to undertake PAT testing are not competent to safely isolate the supply of fixed equipment. Unlike appliances which can simply be unplugged, fixed equipment must be fully isolated and locked off before being checked with a lock-off device. Kevin explained: “It’s essential that fixed appliance and equipment
testing is carried out by a competent person, in accordance with the specific tests for a particular class of equipment.” Seaward’s Apollo+ series PAT testers include programmed sequences for
fixed appliance testing, making it an ideal choice for engineers who require point-to-point capabilities in their device. Since its launch five years ago, the Apollo series has been a firm favourite
16 | electrical wholesalerMarch 2019
ewnews.co.uk
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