Course Specification
Delivered by: GetTesting
Duration: Approx. 6.5 hours guided learning + competency assessment
Format: In-person, practical, hands-on training
Certification: Certificate of Competence in Portable Appliance Testing
Course Overview
Our one-day PAT Testing Course gives learners the practical skills and confidence to safely
inspect and test electrical appliances in the workplace. Designed for beginners and those
refreshing their knowledge, it provides a clear, real-world introduction to in-service inspection
and testing based on the IET Code of Practice (5th Edition) and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.
By the end of the course, learners will be able to test equipment correctly, identify unsafe
appliances, interpret results, and support their organisation’s electrical safety responsibilities.
Who Is This Course For?
This course is ideal for:
- Facilities teams
- Caretakers and site managers
- Tradespeople
- Office, school, retail and hospitality staff
- Landlords and letting agents
- Anyone responsible for electrical equipment safety in the workplace
No previous electrical experience is required.
What You Will Learn
1. Legal Responsibilities
- Electrical safety duties under UK law
- The role of the Duty Holder
- Competence and safe working practices
- Risk-based inspection and testing
2. Equipment Classification
- How to identify Class I, Class II, FE and Class III equipment
- How appliance construction affects the tests you perform
- How to interpret rating plates, symbols and IP ratings
3. Visual Inspection
A structured visual inspection is the most important part of PAT testing. You will learn how to identify:
- Damaged plugs, cables and internal wiring
- Counterfeit or unsafe components
- Overheating, water ingress and environmental issues
- Flexibility and suitability of cables for the load
Faulty appliances for real-world scenarios (some faulty, some not) will be available for hands-on learning.
4. Electrical Testing
You will learn how to safely perform the core PAT tests, including:
- Earth continuity
- Insulation resistance (250 V and 500 V)
- Polarity checks
- Leakage / substitute leakage testing
- Functional checks
You will also learn the correct test sequences and how to select appropriate test methods
for different types of equipment.
5. Testing Specialist Items
Including:
- IEC leads (C5, C7, C13, C15, C19)
- Extension leads
- 110 V equipment
- 16 A and 32 A industrial equipment
- Introduction to 3-phase appliance testing
6. Recording & Labelling
- How to label equipment correctly
- What to record (and what you do not legally need to record)
- How to support a workplace electrical maintenance programme
Practical, Hands-On Training
You will not just watch demonstrations — you will perform real tests under guidance.
The course includes:
- A wide range of appliances
- Both safe and faulty items
- Multiple tester brands and models
- One-to-one trainer support during practical sessions
The aim is to give you confidence and competence in real workplace scenarios.
Assessment & Certification
Learners complete a short practical competency assessment at the end of the course.
Those who demonstrate safe working practices and correct use of test procedures will receive a
Certificate of Competence in Portable Appliance Testing, suitable for workplace evidence,
landlords’ records, and contractor compliance.
Certification can be verified through our online credential system.
Course Resources Provided
- PAT Testing Course Handbook (5th Edition)
- Access to multiple PAT testers
- A range of appliances, including faulty examples (some faulty, some not)
- All tools and equipment needed on the day
- Certificate of Competence
- Optional candidate verification link for LinkedIn and employer records
Benefits of Completing This Course
- Gain practical skills you can use immediately
- Improve electrical safety in your workplace
- Reduce the risk of accidents and equipment failures
- Save money by bringing PAT testing in-house
- Strengthen compliance with UK legislation
- Build confidence when working with electrical equipment
Entry Requirements
No prior electrical training is required.
Basic numeracy and good attention to detail are helpful.
Booking Information
Courses run across the UK at convenient, fully equipped training venues.
Refreshments and lunch are included.
All equipment is provided.
To view upcoming dates or book your place, please visit
All PAT Testing Course Dates.
