Five Different Types of PAT Testing Labels

Five Different Types of PAT Testing Labels

We have written several blogs lately on the topic of portable appliance testing (PAT), the process of examining and labelling electrical appliances to make sure that they are safe to use. This type of testing is particularly common in the workplace, with employers looking to guarantee the safety of appliances that their staff use.

While we have now looked at what you’ll usually find on a PAT test label and why they are so beneficial the workplace, the truth is that not all PAT testing labels are identical to one another. To help you recognise them in real life, here are just a few of the types of PAT labels you are likely to find on appliances around the workplace:

Passed

If an appliance has passed a PAT test, you will usually see a Passed PAT test label, emphasising that the appliance has been tested and is safe to use. These PAT test labels tend to be green, but can also be found in other colours such as blue, purple and black. Passed labels will also mention the name of the tester, when the appliance was tested and sometimes when it is recommended to undergo a re-test.

Failed

Such is the importance of a Failed PAT test label that there are no colour variations from the standard red. This universal warning colour makes it clear to see that the appliance has failed PAT testing and would be dangerous to operate, therefore encouraging the discoverer to avoid using it. Some failed labels may also provide extra space in which the engineer can provide reasons why the appliance has failed.

Radio Frequency Emissions

Some specific appliances may require more specialised PAT testing. One example of the type of appliance that might require this, is appliances that emit radio frequency waves in the course of their normal function, such as microwave ovens. PAT test labels for appliances that have passed a radio frequency emissions check are orange, and also provide space for the engineer to note the emission level of the appliance and to confirm that the appliance’s interlock is working.

Tuff Tags and LabelGuard

Some PAT test labels are designed to withstand the harsh environments in which the appliance is normally used. The challenges that might need to be faced by such labels might include extreme temperatures, corrosive chemicals or mechanical use. In such scenarios, the PAT test label often comes in the form of a durable tuff tag, or inside a Label Guard tag.

Cable wraps

Finally, you may see PAT test labels in the form of a cable wrap. True to their name, these will likely be wrapped around the cable of an appliance and are best suited for electrical equipment. Some cable wraps will advise the user of the appliance’s fuse size in case the fuse ever needs replacing.

Tempted? 

Now that you know how the different types of PAT test labels work, why not get in contact with us today to get hold of them for your business? We will aim to dispatch your new labels within 24 hours of receiving your order.