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PAT Testing - Types of Electrical
Appliances
It is usual for this equipment to be
connected to the supply via a plug and socket, however this is not a
requirement for electrical equipment to be deemed portable or
transportable. It is common to define a portable appliance by saying
that it is 'anything with a plug top on the end of it'. This is a
mistake as it may mean that there are some appliances in the system
that are never tested.
The National Association of
Professional Inspectors and Testers define a portable appliance as
'any electrical item which can or is intended to be moved whilst
connected to an electrical supply.'
The IEE Code of
Practice gives guidance on the various equipment types:
Portable Appliances
An appliance of less than 18kg in mass that is intended to be
moved while in operation, or an appliance which can easily be move
from one place to another such as a toaster, food mixer, vacuum
cleaner, toaster, food mixer etc.
Moveable Equipment (transportable)
This is equipment which is
either 18kg or less and not fixed such as electric fire, or
equipment with wheels or other means to facilitate movement by the
operator as required to perform its intended use, such as an air
conditioning unit
Handheld Appliances
This is portable equipment intended to be held in the hand
during normal use, such as hair dryer, drill, soldering
iron.
Stationary Equipment
This equipment has a mass exceeding 18kg
and is not provided with a carrying handle, such as a refrigerator,
washing machine.
Fixed Equipment
This is equipment which is fastened to a support or otherwise
secured in a specified location, such as a bathroom heater, towel
rail.
IT Equipment
IT equipment includes electrical business equipment such as
computers and mains powered telecommunications equipment, and other
equipment for general business use such as mail processing machines,
VDU's photo-copiers.
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