Do mobile phone chargers need PAT testing?

Mobile phone chargers are Class II items, so in order to measure the insulation resistance, the test lead must be connected to the exposed metal parts on the connector that plugs into the phone.

Should you PAT test a phone charger?

However, it is extremely important to remember that even if an item itself does not qualify for testing, any battery packs or chargers that power it DO need to be PAT tested, as these run off mains electricity.

Do you need to PAT test USB devices?

In summary – as long as a piece of electrical equipment is plugged into a power source and runs off mains electricity, it needs PAT testing. It doesn't matter if it is a portable appliance or not.

Do mobile phones need to be PAT tested?

Class 3 appliances are low-voltage and often battery-powered. Think of devices like mobile phones, torches or digital cameras. PAT testing for Class 3 appliances is not recommended because their low voltage means they're unlikely to cause harm.

Do IPAD chargers need PAT testing?

The plug and cable need a visual check only. The cable on an ipad charger though is 5v as it's a usb lead so that wouldn't need anything. The unit itself as it's double insulated would need a visual inspection.

Dangerous USB Phone Chargers - SPOTTING A BAD and Dangerous charger. PAT Testing

What items do not need PAT testing?

Any cordless power tool would not need to be PAT tested. However, its associated battery charger that plugs into the wall would need to be tested. Larger, seemingly non-portable items, that nevertheless require testing include such items as heated towel rails and built-in dishwashers.

Can you PAT test a charger?

After identifying whether the charger is Class 1 (earthed) or Class 2 (double insulated), then test as any other appliance would. If the charger is Class 1, but has no exposed metal parts, then record the item as Class 1, but omit the earth continuity test and make an appropriate note on the records.

Is PAT testing being phased out?

The common term is still PAT Testing, and although PAT means “Portable Appliance Testing”, the code has now grown to include other appliances including some stationary items. However, all references to 'PAT' have been removed from CoP.

Is PAT testing still a legal requirement?

Currently, businesses aren't legally required to perform PAT testing. But, there are several pieces of legislation that require you to ensure any electrical equipment in the workplace is reasonably safe to use. This legislation includes: Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974.

Is a mobile phone charger double insulated?

The output voltage of the charger is such low voltage DC that only voltages about 20 times higher are considered a significant safety risk. It is therefore more practical to double insulate them just in the input circuitry of the charger rather than using a ground wire.

How often should laptop chargers be PAT tested?

Although there are no requirements for PAT testing frequency, there are recommendations: Offices, Shops and Hotels – Class 1 equipment including stationary and IT equipment should be tested every 48 months. Moveable equipment such as extension leads and portable equipment should be tested every 24 months.

What is classed as a portable appliance?

These would include: Appliances that are intended to be moved whilst in operation or can be easily moved such as kettles, toasters, electric heaters, electric fans, microwaves, vacuum cleaners.

How much does it cost to get a PAT test?

Generally, companies would charge you around £1 – £3 per item. Alternatively, they would charge an hourly rate which can be in the range of £40 – £50 per hour. However, you can easily negotiate with the company if you have a large number of items that need to be tested.

Are cordless phone chargers safe?

Using a wireless charger and being around one is 100% safe.

The vast majority of wireless chargers use harmless, very low-level electromagnetic fields. You will never have to worry about overheating again thanks to their heat-management capabilities.

Can you PAT test a laptop charger?

Hello, to answer your questions firstly the laptop charger: It will be in two parts; an IEC lead and a power supply unit - these both require a PAT Test; the lead undergoes a test and the PSU undergoes another test.

Do phone chargers need to be hand carried or check in?

A portable charger should not be in your checked baggage, because it's usually a lithium battery, and therefore a prohibited item in your checked baggage. You should take a portable charger on an aircraft as carry-on.

What appliances need PAT testing?

Items such as electric drills, monitors, PCs, and kettles are all suitable for PAT testing. You should be aware that electrical appliances fall under categories I, II or III. Those in category 1 are rated as being the most dangerous, with those in category 3 being the least.

Can I refuse a PAT test?

Is Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) compulsory? No. The law simply requires an employer to ensure that their electrical equipment is maintained in order to prevent danger.

Do laptops need PAT testing?

How to PAT Test a Laptop. A laptop, being an extra-low-voltage device that typically operates at 19V, does not require testing. However, its mains charger can and should be tested.

Does PAT testing affect insurance?

Regular PAT testing can help you reduce insurance premiums, as it equates to a risk assessment of your electrical equipment, helping to determine the safety levels in your business, and the need for more or less frequent inspections.

What is the new name for PAT testing?

Fixed electrical equipment

This change removes the mobility requirement of previous versions of the Code of Practice – and hence changes the name of the activity from Portable Appliance testing (PAT) to Electrical Equipment testing (EET).

Do new electronics need PAT testing?

Are you obliged to test these pieces of new equipment, or do you simply leave them alone? As the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) says: “New equipment should be supplied in a safe condition and not require a formal portable appliance inspection or test.

Can I do my own PAT testing?

The HSE say any competent person can do PAT testing. Our free online PAT Testing course which introduces you to the fundamentals of PAT Testing can help you decide if you are competent. The course shows what is involved so that you can decide whether or not you need to seek further training.

Are laptop chargers Class 1 or 2?

Laptops are battery powered so they do not come under the requirements for PAT testing however the transformers that supply them do. The majority of laptop supplies are Class 1. Commercial / large office printers are always Class 1.

How can I test my Pat without a PAT tester?

Alternatives to using a PAT test instrument

Most electricians will already have a low resistance ohmmeter and an insulation tester, or more often nowadays, a multifunction tester (MFT). These are normally used for testing the fixed electrical installation, but they can also be used for PAT testing.