How many of you PAT without the 2377?

[jibspark]

Hi all,

after reading a thread on here ive been thinking about adding PA Testing to my list of services, however i havnt done the 2377 course.

is it fairly common practice for a qualified electrician to do PAT without having done the extra course?

do any of you do this?

 

[Andy™]

i do the odd bit PAT without 2377

 

[jibspark]

i do the odd bit PAT without 2377

its pretty simple stuff isnt it?

 

[Andy™]

its pretty simple stuff isnt it?

yes. quick visual/check fuses etc, few tests and afew notes then your done

 

[green-hornet]

I have the 2377 but really only requested when doing local authority work.

You could argue competance with your qualifications as an electrician, which to be honest especially if you have the 2391 would be more detailed than the 2377.

The NICEIC want me to pay extra so I can issue PAT certificated under the NICEIC banner I say NO WAY.

I have the qualifications without them poking their nose in to use a logo.

 

[jibspark]

i dont have the 2391, but i think i will get a book on PAT and start offering it as a service.

 

[Riggy]

My understanding is that you need to be competent to carry out the tests and to be able to interpret the results.

My view is that as a competent, time served Electrician, I fit the above criteria. I carry out PAT without 2377.

The only people I know who have undertaken the 2377 course have been non-electricians who want to undertake PAT. They can usually Pass/Fail an item, but not repair them.

 

[jibspark]

what do you think i could pick a 2nd hand pat tester up for?

 

[Andy™]

i use my megger 1552 for pa testing.

 

[jibspark]

really?? ive got a fluke 1652 so i guess i could use that? i think i would prefer the correct tester though.

 

[Andy™]

if you do the odd bit PA testing (like me), then a MFT does the job. you can do IR and earth continuity (but limited to 200mA, and not the higher currents a proper tester will do)

 

[jibspark]

i suppose i could rig something up that would work off my mft.....

 

[Andy™]

i have a small lead about 30cm long wih croc clips either side - ideal for shorting L-N

 

[jibspark]

so i presume the tests are as follows:

1. Check appliance for any physical damage

2. Open up plug to confirm polarity

3. Short L-N and do IR down to earth

4. Continuty from earth pin on the plug to any mettelic structure of the appliance

5. Functional test?

Have i missed anything?

 

[Andy™]

so i presume the tests are as follows:1. Check appliance for any physical damage

2. Open up plug to confirm polarity

3. Short L-N and do IR down to earth

4. Continuty from earth pin on the plug to any mettelic structure of the appliance

5. Functional test?

Have i missed anything?

dont forget to check the fuse when youve got plug open.

IR and earth continuity cant be done on Class II. makes things a bit easier

 

[jibspark]

dont forget to check the fuse when youve got plug open.IR and earth continuity cant be done on Class II. makes things a bit easier

Good point! cheers for that andy!

 

[M107]

I do pat'ing (when I have to :_| ) but dont have 2377.

 

[jibspark]

and do you just use your mft or do you have a pat tester?

 

[M107]

I have a Fluke 6500

 

[Nicky Tesla]

i use a metrel pat tester, but not got 2377, boss said heres the new tester now go out and do some testing, without knowing if i was competent at it or not.

The new battery powered pat testers look good, cos you dont have to go looking for an available socket and work area.