Portable Appliance Testing (PAT Testing)
At Jim’s Test & Tag, we specialise in Portable Appliance Testing to help keep workplaces safe, compliant and fully operational. Whether you manage a café, a construction site, a school or an office, maintaining your electrical equipment is essential. This is not just for safety but also to minimise downtime and avoid costly repairs.
Faulty equipment is one of the leading causes of workplace incidents involving electric shock or fire. Even tools that appear to be in good condition can develop internal faults over time. That is where PAT Testing comes in. This process allows trained technicians to inspect and test your appliances to confirm they are safe to use. It helps you identify and address any issues before they become a hazard.
What is PAT Testing?
PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. It involves a thorough inspection and electrical test of appliances that are connected to the power supply by a flexible cord and plug. The testing process includes both a visual examination and specialised electrical testing using certified equipment. Each appliance is tagged with a label showing whether it passed or failed, along with the date of the test and the due date for the next inspection.
This testing process applies to a wide range of portable appliances commonly used in commercial, industrial and domestic environments. From handheld power tools to office equipment and kitchen appliances, anything that plugs in and is used in the workplace should be tested at regular intervals.
The Importance of PAT Testing
PAT Testing is essential for maintaining workplace safety and ensuring compliance with legal standards. It uncovers hidden faults in electrical appliances that aren’t visible during a simple visual check, helping to guarantee that your equipment is safe and functioning properly. By identifying potential issues early, PAT Testing reduces the risk of electric shock, fire and injury, all of which could have serious consequences for your staff, your business operations and your reputation.
Beyond safety, PAT Testing helps you meet your legal responsibilities under Australian Standards. Standards such as AS/NZS 3760 and AS/NZS 3012 require duty holders to regularly inspect and test electrical equipment. This applies not only to all new appliances before they are put into use but also to any items that have been repaired, serviced or relocated.
By scheduling PAT Testing at regular intervals, you protect everyone in your workplace while also extending the lifespan of your equipment. This proactive approach helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly replacements, keeping your business running smoothly.
What Our PAT Testing Covers
At Jim’s Test & Tag, we inspect and test a wide variety of portable and stationary electrical appliances used across different industries and workplaces. This includes handheld power tools such as drills, sanders, angle grinders and nail guns, along with common office and kitchen equipment like computers, kettles, toasters and microwaves. We also test commercial cleaning appliances including vacuum cleaners, steam mops and polishers.
All testing is carried out by fully trained technicians using specialised, calibrated equipment. Our team understands the specific risks associated with each type of appliance and follows strict testing procedures to ensure accurate results. After each visit, we provide a comprehensive report for every item tested, including the results, any observations, and the date your next test is due.
Managing Unsafe or Non-Compliant Appliances
If an appliance fails our tests, it will be clearly tagged as unsafe and must be removed from use immediately. Our technician will walk you through the results, explain what caused the failure, and advise you on the appropriate next steps. In some cases, the appliance may need repair or replacement. In others, it may need to be permanently removed from service to eliminate the risk.
We make sure you understand exactly what the issue is and what your options are. By addressing faults early, you can reduce the risk of accidents, protect your staff and customers, and stay on top of your workplace health and safety responsibilities.
Scheduling Your Portable Appliance Tests
The frequency of PAT Testing depends on the type of equipment and how regularly it is used. For instance, tools and appliances used on construction sites should be tested every three months because of the higher risk associated with these environments. Office equipment such as computers, printers and other electronics may only need testing once a year, depending on how often they are used.
Equipment that is hired out must always be tested before it is provided to the next user to ensure safety. Similarly, any appliance that has recently been serviced or repaired requires testing before it returns to service.
If you’re unsure about the testing schedule that’s right for your equipment or business, our experienced technicians can assess your workplace and develop a tailored testing program that meets your specific industry requirements and compliance obligations.
Why Choose Jim’s Test & Tag?
With over 15 years of experience serving businesses across Australia, Jim’s Test & Tag has built a strong reputation as a trusted leader in electrical safety. We work with businesses of all sizes, from small local operations to large national organisations, delivering reliable and professional service that works around your schedule.
Our fully trained and insured technicians use the latest testing equipment to ensure every result is accurate and every appliance is assessed thoroughly. After each visit, you’ll receive a detailed compliance report and a complete test log for your records. We also provide a free reminder service, so you never miss a retest or fall behind on your safety obligations.
Whether you need a once-off inspection or a comprehensive electrical testing program, Jim’s Test & Tag is here to keep your business safe, compliant and running smoothly.
Where We Work
Jim’s Test & Tag operates across Australia, with qualified technicians available in major cities and regional centres. Whether your business is based in Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania or ACT, we have local experts ready to assist you. We also cover a wide range of regional and rural areas, providing the same high level of service no matter where you’re located.
Our nationwide network means you get the convenience of a local technician backed by the strength and reliability of the Jim’s Group. No matter the size or industry of your business, we’re committed to helping you maintain a safe and compliant workplace.
Stay Safe & Compliant with Jim’s Test & Tag
With Jim’s Test & Tag, you can be confident your portable appliances are tested to the highest standards and fully compliant with Australian regulations. Contact us today to arrange a quote or speak with a local technician about your safety needs.