PAT Testing equipment fitted with EU plugs.

[Elidor]

Anyone know if its permitted to PAT Test equipment fitted with EU plugs? My boss has asked me to test some items which include extension leads, heat guns and drills but they are all fitted with EU plugs.

 

[morph]

dunno , ask your boss really, he obviosly knows what to do

 

[roukel01]

If they are in use, then test them!

 

[Elidor]

My question was intended to be aimed towards whether the code of practice allows them to certified as safe? I meen, how do i check the fuse? as they have none

 

[Adam W]

How are they connected to the mains? Is there an extension lead somewhere along the line with an appropriate BS1362 fuse in it or is the installation wired with euro sockets?

 

[Elidor]

These are european electrical appliances and extension leads used with a EU / UK adapter at one end to interface with the UK 1363 socket oulet.

My reasoning why they should NOT be tested is that we are told that when checking a normal UK BS1363 plug as part of the formal visual inspection we should check that the line and neutral pins have that small section of insulation to protect against accidental contact when inserting and removing the plug. Most EU type plugs i have seen (the ones i am testing) do not have this protection.

Another reason is the principle behind why we check the fuse. We are told the fuse is important as it protects that vulnerable section of the circuit and as part of the formal visual inspection we should check the fuse rating against the appliance power rating and the cable CSA against relevant tables in the guide. With no fuse fitted this level of protection is removed? So how can the cord, extension lead or appliance pass the visual inspection?

Was wondering what the forums opinion was on this matter. I have been chewing over ot for a few days now. I know some people who have tested them and some who refuse too. I cant find any solid clear guidance

 

[Elidor]

Ok, some update for any one interested in this post...

I have just learned that some (and only some) UK EU adapters are fitted with a fuse. Most come fitted with a 13A fuse as standard. So I guess I could technically pass these appliances assuming they all have cords with a min CSA or 1.25mm² and are strictly used with the fused adapter.

As I have no control over whether they will be used together when they are out in the field (or any confidence that they will) would it be my responsibility should an incident ever occur even if I can prove I communicated these important conditions to the responsible manager?

 

[Adam W]

Are they fitted with EU plugs for any particular reason? How do you mean "out in the field" and what is the alternative location for their use? Who do you work for and what do they do?
I don't understand the problem - need more information altogether, not dribbled in bit by bit.

 

[Michelle2909]

These are european electrical appliances and extension leads used with a EU / UK adapter at one end to interface with the UK 1363 socket oulet.

My reasoning why they should NOT be tested is that we are told that when checking a normal UK BS1363 plug as part of the formal visual inspection we should check that the line and neutral pins have that small section of insulation to protect against accidental contact when inserting and removing the plug. Most EU type plugs i have seen (the ones i am testing) do not have this protection.

Another reason is the principle behind why we check the fuse. We are told the fuse is important as it protects that vulnerable section of the circuit and as part of the formal visual inspection we should check the fuse rating against the appliance power rating and the cable CSA against relevant tables in the guide. With no fuse fitted this level of protection is removed? So how can the cord, extension lead or appliance pass the visual inspection?

PAT testing is not just applicable to Appliances/Extension leads that just have UK BS 1363 Plug fitted.

I dont see the problem in testing Appliances/Extension leads with EU plugs on, its no different than testing industrial equipment/extension leads connected by industrial plugs or 3 pin round pin plugs which are still used for specific purposes, both being unfused and relying on the fuseboad mcb. on the result sheet I just mark N/A for fuse check.

NB. also EU to UK adapters usualy have a Fuse fitted

 

[Elidor]

Thank you all for your assistance and comments. Testing has been done and all went well.

Regards

Elidor