An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) and PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) are two distinct types of electrical safety inspections, each serving a different purpose.
An EICR is an inspection of the fixed electrical installation of a building or property, including the wiring, circuits, and electrical accessories such as sockets, switches, and light fittings. The main purpose of an EICR is to identify any potential safety hazards or defects in the electrical installation, assess the overall condition of the installation, and provide recommendations for any necessary remedial work.
On the other hand, PAT testing is an inspection of portable electrical appliances, including devices such as computers, kettles, and power tools. The main purpose of PAT testing is to ensure that portable electrical equipment is safe to use and in good working order. This includes checking for any damage to the equipment or its power cords, verifying that the equipment is correctly grounded, and checking for any potential electrical faults or hazards.
While both EICR and PAT testing serve to improve electrical safety, they focus on different aspects of electrical systems. An EICR is a more comprehensive and detailed inspection of the fixed wiring and electrical installation, while PAT testing is a more targeted inspection of portable electrical equipment.
It is important to note that both EICR and PAT testing are important for maintaining electrical safety in a building or property. While an EICR may be carried out less frequently (typically every 5-10 years), PAT testing may need to be conducted more frequently (e.g. annually) depending on the nature of the equipment and its usage.
