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    Course overview

    This comprehensive PAT testing training course combines theory with hands-on practical training. Learners are guided through the full process of service inspection and testing, from initial user checks through to formal visual inspection and electrical testing using industry-standard PAT testers.

    You will learn how to:

    • Identify electrical faults and safety risks
    • Carry out visual inspections and combined inspection and testing
    • Use portable appliance testing equipment correctly
    • Select appropriate test procedures for different equipment types
    • Understand inspection and testing frequencies based on risk assessment
    • Interpret test results and take appropriate action

    Training is interactive and practical, ensuring learners leave confident in their ability to carry out PAT testing safely and competently.

    Portable Electrical Appliances & Equipment Covered

    This course covers the testing of portable electrical appliances and portable electrical equipment commonly found in workplaces and rental properties, including:

    • Office and IT equipment
    • Domestic and commercial electrical appliances
    • Power tools (230V and 110V)
    • Extension leads and IEC leads
    • Industrial and workshop equipment
    • Three-phase equipment

    If electrical equipment can be plugged in, unplugged, or moved during use, it is classed as a portable appliance and may require inspection and testing.

    Entry Requirements

    There are no formal entry requirements for this PAT testing course.

    The course is suitable for:

    • Individuals with no prior electrical experience
    • Electricians and tradespeople
    • Employers and facilities managers
    • Landlords testing their own properties
    • Businesses looking to reduce external PAT testing costs
    • Anyone responsible for maintaining electrical equipment safety

    A basic understanding of workplace health and safety is helpful but not essential.

    Modules breakdown

    By the end of this PAT testing training course, learners will:

    • Understand what electrical equipment must be tested under the law
    • Know how to carry out user checks and formal visual inspections
    • Be able to test portable appliances safely using a PAT tester
    • Understand Class I and Class II equipment
    • Select correct inspection and testing frequencies
    • Identify higher risk environments and equipment
    • Maintain accurate PAT testing records
    • Take appropriate action when equipment fails testing

    Learners will be equipped to carry out PAT testing competently and confidently.

    a gas trainee with his certificate

    Assessments & Successful Completion

    Learners complete:

    • A short practical assessment
    • A multiple-choice quiz (75% pass mark)

    If a learner does not pass, free reassessment is available. We offer a 100% refund guarantee if you are unable to achieve a pass.

    Following successful completion, learners receive their PAT training certificate.

    Required Course Book

    During the PAT testing course, learners will be provided with access to the following industry-standard reference material:

    • IET Code of Practice – In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment (5th Edition) – ISBN: 978-1785619663

    A copy of the IET Code of Practice is made available for use during the training session to support learning, reference test procedures, and understand current best practice.

    Please note that this book is not included to take away and remains the property of the training provider. Learners who wish to own their own copy are encouraged to purchase one separately.

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    Course Certification

    Upon successful completion of the PAT Testing Course, learners will be issued with a Skills Training Group PAT Testing Certificate.

    This certificate confirms that the learner has completed practical, instructor-led PAT testing training and has demonstrated the required knowledge and competence to carry out portable appliance testing safely and correctly.

    The Skills Training Group certificate is a widely recognised and acceptable level of certification for PAT testing. It is suitable for use as evidence of competence for:

    • Employers and businesses
    • Landlords and property managers
    • Contractors and facilities teams
    • Health and safety audits
    • Insurance and compliance purposes

    PAT testing does not require a regulated qualification. Instead, the law requires that testing is carried out by a competent person. This certificate demonstrates that competence has been achieved through structured training, practical assessment, and successful completion of the course.

    Legal Responsibilities & Compliance

    PAT testing supports compliance with key UK work regulations, including:

    • Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
    • Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
    • Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
    • Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

    The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) does not mandate fixed PAT testing intervals but requires employers to ensure electrical equipment is maintained in a safe condition. This course teaches how to determine testing frequency through risk assessment.

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    PAT Testing Training Reviews

    Pat course

    Took part in the pat course today led by Lee, he was super professional with alot of knowledge but also friendly and approachable. Made the experience fun as well as informative

    Iain Lawrie - Aug 8, 2024

    PAT Test Course

    Completed the Portable appliance testing course with Paul. Great instructor, information was well presented and he was able to assist with any questions we had throughout the day. Enjoyed the training and would definitely recommend.

    Murray Mcleod - Nov 16, 2023

    PAT Testing Course

    Very informative and well presented course. Paul answered any questions we had and reassured us throughout the course. Excellent, thank you

    Lynsey Walker - Nov 16, 2023

    Portable Appliance Testing Training

    Portable Appliance Testing Training was very well presented by Paul who made the course enjoyable and interesting. Will definitely look to return to Skills Training Group in the future for further training courses.

    Stewart - Nov 16, 2023

    PAT testing being undertaken by a student

    What Is PAT Testing?

    Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is the process of inspecting and testing electrical equipment to ensure it is safe for continued use. PAT testing helps prevent electric shock, electrical fires, and injuries caused by faulty electrical appliances.

    PAT testing forms part of a wider electrical safety strategy and supports compliance with legislation such as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

    Record Keeping & Certification

    Accurate record keeping is a key part of portable appliance testing.

    Upon successful completion of the course, learners receive a digital PAT training certificate issued by Skills Training Group. This certificate can be used as evidence of competence for audits, inspections, and compliance checks.

    PAT testing records should include:

    • Location of the inspection and testing
    • Details of all electrical appliances tested
    • Test results and pass/fail status
    • Date of inspection and testing
    • Details of the competent person who carried out the testing

    Records may be kept digitally or in paper format.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is this an online PAT testing course?

    No. This is a fully classroom-based, practical PAT testing course. We do not provide online PAT testing training and strongly recommend against online-only PAT courses, as PAT testing requires hands-on experience with real electrical equipment and PAT testers.

    Why do you recommend against online PAT testing courses?

    PAT testing is a practical skill involving inspection, testing procedures, and the safe use of portable appliance testing equipment. Online-only courses cannot adequately assess competence, practical ability, or real-world fault identification.

    Is this PAT testing course recognised by the HSE?

    The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) does not approve or formally accredit any PAT testing courses. Instead, the HSE requires that portable appliance testing is carried out by a competent person.

    This PAT testing course is designed specifically to meet that expectation. The training follows current HSE guidance and is aligned with the IET Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment. Through hands-on practical training and assessment, learners gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence required to demonstrate competence.

    As a result, this course provides a widely accepted and appropriate standard of training for PAT testing and is suitable for employers, landlords, contractors, and businesses looking to meet their electrical safety obligations with confidence.

    Do I need prior electrical experience?

    No. This course is suitable for beginners and experienced individuals alike.

    Do I need to bring my own PAT tester?

    No. All portable appliance testing equipment is provided during the course.

    What happens if I fail the course?

    You can retake assessments at no additional cost. A full refund is available if you are unable to pass.

    Is PAT testing legally required?

    There is no single law stating PAT testing must be carried out, but employers are legally required to maintain electrical equipment safely. PAT testing is the most effective way to demonstrate compliance.

    Can I carry out PAT testing after completing this course?

    Yes. On successful completion, you will be equipped to carry out PAT testing competently.

    Is the certificate a formal qualification?

    The certificate confirms training and competence rather than a regulated qualification, which is standard for PAT testing.

    How often does PAT testing need to be done?

    Testing frequency depends on risk assessment, equipment type, and work environment. This course explains how to determine appropriate intervals.

    Book Your PAT Testing Course

    Book online to secure your place or view available dates. If you have questions, you can call us on 0808 164 2780.

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