Specific Equipment Types

What is a specific consideration for extension lead testing?

• AThe same checks as any appliance
• BExtension leads don't need testing
• CCheck all sockets, insulation of the main cable, and socket contact condition✓
• DTest only the very first socket on the extension lead

Answer: Extension leads need thorough testing of all sockets, the main cable condition, and contact cleanliness to ensure safe operation of all connected equipment.

What is an RCD (Residual Current Device)?

• AA fuse fitted inside the plug top
• BA power adapter which steps the mains supply voltage down for the appliance
• CAn extension lead that is fitted with several sockets along the length of it
• DA device that cuts power if leakage current exceeds a set level✓

Answer: An RCD automatically disconnects power if it detects current flowing to earth (fault current), providing additional protection against electric shock.

How should an RCD extension lead be tested?

• ABy measuring its insulation resistance at 1000 V DC
• BIn the same way as a standard extension lead, with no extra tests
• CRCDs don't need special testing
• DInclude testing that the RCD trips at the correct fault current level✓

Answer: RCD extension leads require additional testing to verify the RCD trips within the correct time at the appropriate fault current level.

What is a 110V electrical system?

• AAn American standard only
• BStandard UK mains voltage
• CA lower voltage system often used on construction sites for safety✓
• DA high voltage industrial supply that is used for heavy machinery in factories

Answer: 110V (often with a centre-tapped transformer giving 55V between live and earth) is used on construction sites to reduce shock risk.

What testing adjustments are needed for 110V equipment?

• AA much higher insulation test voltage is always required than for 230V equipment
• BTesting may be skipped
• CSame tests as 230V equipment
• DTest voltage may be reduced, and touch current limits may be different✓

Answer: Lower voltage equipment may require adjusted test voltages and may have different acceptance limits due to lower shock risk.

What is an IEC connector?

• AA safety device fitted to the flex
• BAn international connector used for equipment power input✓
• CThe UK standard 13 A plug top that is fitted to appliance flexes
• DA type of connector that is not used on any electrical equipment at all

Answer: IEC connectors (like IEC 60320 C13/C14) are international standard connectors used on many items like computers and printers.

What is a specific concern with testing IT equipment?

• ATreat it as routine, in the same way as a kettle or toaster
• BA 500 V insulation test can damage it, so 250 V or a leakage test is used✓
• CIT equipment is exempt from PAT, as it runs at extra-low voltage
• DThe test leads can wipe data from the hard drive

Answer: The IET Code of Practice warns that the standard 500 V d.c. insulation test may damage IT and other equipment containing electronic components, and that filter or surge-suppression components can give low readings. A protective conductor/touch current (leakage) test, or an insulation test at a reduced 250 V d.c., may be more appropriate. Agree a time with the user first, because switching IT equipment off can lose unsaved work; the test itself does not erase stored data.

What should be checked on three-phase equipment?

• AEarth continuity, and insulation resistance of all three phases and neutral to earth✓
• BThe single-phase control input, as the three phases share one earth path
• CThe first phase for continuity, since the other two phases mirror its readings
• DA visual check alone, as fixed three-phase machines are outside PAT testing

Answer: On three-phase equipment, test the earth continuity of the protective conductor, and the insulation resistance between all live conductors (all three phases and neutral) and earth. Every phase must be included, not just one.

What is a specific issue with testing metal-cased equipment?

• AA metal case cannot be tested at all because it conducts the test current
• BMetal casings are always unsafe and should be replaced with plastic
• CThe metal case must be properly earthed for Class I equipment✓
• DIt raises the same issues as a plastic-cased item

Answer: Metal cases must be conductive and properly connected to earth for Class I equipment to function safely if insulation fails.

What is a 'plug adapter' or 'travel adapter' concern for PAT?

• AThey need testing once, when they are first bought
• BThey should be checked for proper earthing and insulation condition✓
• CThey are exempt from testing, since they contain no live components inside
• DThey are tested as part of the appliance plugged into them

Answer: Plug adapters must be properly insulated and provide earth continuity if they're being used with Class I equipment.

What is a concern when testing double adapters or 'Y-shaped' connectors?

• AThey never need testing, as they carry no current themselves
• BThey are always unsafe and should never be used in a workplace
• CAll connections must be secure and properly insulated✓
• DThey can be treated as ordinary plugs

Answer: Double adapters create multiple connections that must be mechanically secure, properly insulated, and capable of carrying the combined current safely.

What is a 'dual voltage' appliance?

• AAn appliance designed to work on both 110V and 230V✓
• BAn appliance that is fitted with two separate mains plugs
• CThis is not a real category that is used in appliance testing
• DAn appliance that will only work on a 110V construction site supply

Answer: Dual voltage appliances (like some travel hair dryers) can operate safely on both 110V and 230V. Testing should confirm proper operation at both voltages if applicable.

What is specific about testing equipment with a 'sealed power unit'?

• AThe casing is opened with a special tool so the inside can be inspected
• BSealed units cannot be opened for internal inspection, so visual inspection is particularly important✓
• CSealed units automatically fail the test, whatever their condition or age
• DSuch units are tested at 1000 V DC so that the test reaches the sealed parts inside

Answer: Equipment with sealed units (like laptop power supplies) cannot be opened for internal inspection, making thorough visual inspection and electrical testing critical.

What should be checked when testing power strips with surge protection?

• AAll outlets, surge protector function, and thermal overload protection✓
• BThe surge protection component does not need to be checked at all during the test
• COnly the plug
• DJust one outlet

Answer: Power strips with surge protection should be tested for all outlets and thermal overload protection function to ensure complete safety.

What is a concern with testing cordless equipment batteries?

• AIt is entirely straightforward to carry out in normal practice
• BBattery charging systems must be checked for proper insulation and earth continuity✓
• CCordless equipment doesn't need PAT testing
• DBatteries are always safe

Answer: Cordless equipment batteries and charging systems must be tested for electrical safety, not just the cordless device itself.