PAT testing band PA gear

danrv

Hi

My band needs to show a PAT test certificate to a few venues and looking for the cheapest and easiest way. We have got a lot of quite new and good quality band gear (PA system, mixer, keys, lights, leads) and previously had someone do it. They’ve stopped testing now and others quotes have been expensive. Thinking of getting a portable tester. All I have at the moment is a multimeter.

The main thing is a certificate as that’s what clients ask for even though they probably don’t read it. Just wondering if this device would be ok. Any help appreciated.

https://www.tester.co.uk/testsafe-minipat-appliance-tester?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIlMre7sfH8gIVi-d3Ch22pgVlEAAYASAAEgLMV_D_BwE

tacpot12

I don't think much of that tester. It looks like it would be as likely to electrocute you as test anything plugged into it.

I don't think the band testing its own equipment is going to produce a certifcate that should be accepted by the venues, unless the band has some liability insurance that covers PAT.  I don't see a problem with one member of the band buying a testing, getting trained and buying the insurance that allows them to issue a certificate for the band's equipment. 

NSG666

Have you asked the guy who used to do it whether he has a PAT tester he wants to sell? And if he has will he show you how to use it. Do an online course which might help identify the equipment that you need and help prove that you are a 'Competent person'

PAT Testing Course | CPD Approved Online Training & Certificate (cpdonline.co.uk)

Section62

danrv said:

Just wondering if this device would be ok

According to that link -

Please note: The miniPAT is a simplified version of a standard PAT tester that uses low voltage to perform all of its testing functions.

This is NOT a full PAT tester and should not be used as such. We recommend this tester for use in the time period between official PAT testing to check that equipment remains safe and hasn't developed any faults.

If you're looking for an entry-level PAT tester please see the UNI-T UT527 instead.

So you wouldn't be able to use that for PAT testing, and the 'entry-level' level model they suggest comes in at almost £240.

NSG666 is right about the need for training (which should need periodic refreshing), but in addition to that the PAT tester will need servicing and calibration in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

I suspect by the time you add up all the costs it will be more expensive to do your own testing than to get someone to do it for you.


Bear in mind that if anyone is seriously injured or killed whilst using the equipment the HSE will investigate, and as part of their investigation they will be looking for documentation including records of the testing done, training records, calibration/servicing records etc.

Some people might tell you things like the certificate is just a bit of paper... but it is an important piece of backside covering paper for the band, the venue, and for you.  You don't want to be the one finding their backside not covered because you didn't do the job by the book - prosecution and fines/prison are a real possibility when it comes to accidents involving electricity in the workplace and in places where the public gather.

Robin9

@danrv     How much are you paying per item ?   The ones I had done I paid 99p (I did have 150 !)

coffeehound

Section62 said:

NSG666 is right about the need for training (which should need periodic refreshing), but in addition to that the PAT tester will need servicing and calibration in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

I suspect by the time you add up all the costs it will be more expensive to do your own testing than to get someone to do it for you.

Bear in mind that if anyone is seriously injured or killed whilst using the equipment the HSE will investigate, and as part of their investigation they will be looking for documentation including records of the testing done, training records, calibration/servicing records etc.

I would agree it's not worth the time and expense.  There's also a risk of damaging electronic equipment from the wrong test being applied, and a professional tester will a) know this, and b) have indemnity insurance in place to cover you should it occur. People do get electrocuted from band equipment so it's best farmed-out to an expert

danrv

Thanks for the replies.
I was considering a Seaward Primetest 100 to test the equipment and fill in the certificates.
I do all the gear maintenance, repair keyboards and guitar amps, make up cables etc..
It’s all immaculate and very well looked after.
I’d read the manual carefully and make sure it’s all done correctly.
https://www.seaward.com/gb/products/pat-testing/pat-testers/344a910-primetest-100/

If any problems at gigs though, proof of training for PAT testing would be important.

TELLIT01

I suppose the bottom financial line is how much you value the safety of the band and other people who may have to handle or touch the equipment. 

danrv

TELLIT01 said:

I suppose the bottom financial line is how much you value the safety of the band and other people who may have to handle or touch the equipment. 

Thanks.
A lot. I take care with everything. 

Section62

TELLIT01 said:

I suppose the bottom financial line is how much you value the safety of the band and other people who may have to handle or touch the equipment. 

There's also an issue of public safety - if any of the equipment started smoking or caused a fire in a busy venue the consequences could be extremely serious.

People panicking due to a bit of smoke could be enough to result in fatalities.

Not something to take shortcuts with.

Ectophile

But most people take shortcuts over PAT testing.

Plug the equipment into the tester.  Tester goes "beep" and spits out a "PASS" sticker.  Put sticker on appliance.  You can do a whole office at a few pence per appliance.