Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)

Course overview

Practical, easy-to-follow training in Portable Appliance Testing (PAT), helping learners understand key risks, responsibilities, controls and good practice relevant to the workplace.

⏱ Duration: Approx. 25 minutes

Course Description This Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) online course introduces the fundamentals of PAT testing — what it is, why it’s important, and how it helps maintain safety in the workplace. You’ll begin by understanding the purpose of PAT testing and reviewing examples of common portable electrical appliances. The course then explores the legal responsibilities of employers, the self-employed, and employees under health and safety regulations. You’ll learn whether PAT testing is legally required, what the three main types of electrical examination are, and how often each should be carried out. The course also covers record keeping, labelling, and how to maintain a safe testing regime.

Learning Objectives By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Understand what Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is and its purpose
• Recognise the importance of PAT in ensuring electrical safety
• Identify the legal responsibilities around electrical equipment maintenance
• Understand the different types of PAT examinations
• Determine testing frequencies and appropriate record-keeping processes

Target Audience This course is ideal for:

• Employees who need awareness of electrical safety
• Supervisors or managers responsible for maintaining workplace safety
• The self-employed or business owners using electrical equipment

Course Modules

Advantages

• Improves awareness of electrical safety responsibilities
• Helps maintain legal compliance and reduce electrical risks
• Delivered entirely online with flexible access, allowing learners to study at their own pace

Recommended System Requirements

• Browser: Latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge
• Video: Updated video drivers
• Memory: 1GB+ RAM
• Internet: Broadband (3Mb+)

Enrol now or contact us for team or group training packages

UK guidance and good-practice context

The law requires electrical equipment to be maintained to prevent danger; it does not require every portable appliance to receive an annual PAT test.

Important: This course supports knowledge and awareness. It does not replace site-specific risk assessments, employer procedures, competent supervision or role-specific practical training where these are required.