1 Day PAT Testing Course (Classroom or Online) - UK Wide

Industry Recognised Certificate

Our PAT testing course provides comprehensive training in portable appliance testing, equipping you with the practical skills and knowledge needed to safely carry out PAT testing across a wide range of work environments.

Whether you choose a classroom-based session or an online PAT testing course, this structured training course is designed to help you understand the testing of electrical equipment, apply correct testing procedures, and meet current UK legal requirements.

No prior electrical experience is required. This course is suitable for beginners as well as those responsible for maintaining electrical equipment within their organisation.

On successful completion, learners receive a digital certificate confirming competence in portable appliance testing PAT in line with current guidance and work regulations.

Industry Recognised Certificate Provided

Content follows IET COP 5th Edition

Suitable for beginners - no electrical knowledge or experience required

Industry Recognised Digital Certificate

All PAT testing equipment is provided for the practical session

£

195

+ VAT

include
vat
include vat

One day course

Live instructor led training on Zoom

Content aligned with IET Code of Practice (5th Edition)

You need to own a PAT testing machine so you can do the practical element

£

145

+ VAT

include
vat
include vat

Includes a 10% discount for 10+ courses

Flexible Learning Options

Local Classroom Courses

Classroom-based training
delivered by experienced instructors.

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Online Live
PAT Training

A live online training
course with tutor guidance.

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In-House
Testing

On-site group training
for organisations or groups.

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Digital certificate issued upon successful completion

Industry recognised competence certificate

One-day course (9:00am – 4:00pm)

Over 1,600 5-star Trustpilot reviews

Content aligned with IET Code of Practice (5th Edition)

Practical, hands-on learning using real PAT testers

Expert instruction in a relaxed, structured setting

Bulk booking discounts available

What Is Portable Appliance Testing?

Portable appliance testing refers to the in service inspection and testing of portable electrical equipment to ensure it remains safe to use. It involves a combination of:

  • Formal visual inspection
  • Electrical tests using a PAT device
  • Record keeping and documentation
  • Risk assessments where required

PAT testing helps identify electrical faults that could lead to electric shock, electrical fires, or equipment failure. The Health and Safety Executive advises that any electrical equipment used in the workplace must be maintained to prevent danger under the Work Act and Work Equipment Regulations.

While PAT testing itself is not always a specific legal requirement, maintaining portable electrical appliances in a safe condition is.

Course Content

This PAT testing training course includes detailed explanations and structured modules covering:

  • Introduction to electrical safety and fire safety principles
  • Legal framework including work regulations and safety executive guidance
  • Understanding portable appliances and portable electrical equipment
  • Appliance classification and risk categories
  • Formal visual inspection techniques
  • Using portable appliance testing equipment correctly
  • Earth continuity, insulation resistance and other essential electrical tests
  • Service inspection and testing procedures
  • Identifying electrical faults
  • Record keeping and documentation requirements
  • Risk assessments and safe work environment practices
  • Basic knowledge of manual handling and equipment positioning

Courses covering both theory and practice ensure learners gain the knowledge needed to operate as a competent person responsible for the testing of electrical equipment.

Practical Skills and Assessment

A strong emphasis is placed on developing practical skills. During the course, you will:

  • Use professional PAT tester devices
  • Conduct visual inspection checks
  • Perform electrical testing safely
  • Interpret test results
  • Apply correct testing procedures

Assessment includes a supervised practical exercise and a short knowledge check. Successful completion confirms you can carry out PAT testing safely and effectively.

After course completion, you will receive your PAT testing certificate. Digital certificates are issued promptly and can be downloaded instantly for use as evidence of competence.

Who Is This Course For?

This PAT training is suitable for:

Completing this course allows you to:

  • Employers and duty holders
  • Facilities and maintenance teams
  • Landlords and property managers
  • Tradespeople
  • Individuals wishing to start a PAT testing service
  • Anyone responsible for portable electrical appliances in the workplace

There are no formal entry requirements. No prior electrical experience or formal qualification is needed.

Certification and Recognition

On successful completion of this PAT training course, learners receive:

  • A PAT training certificate from Skills Training Group
  • A recognised qualification demonstrating competence

This certification confirms appropriate training in portable appliance testing and demonstrates understanding of service inspection and testing aligned with current best practice.

Under current UK legislation, including guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), there is no requirement to hold a specific formal qualification to carry out PAT testing. The law requires that testing of electrical equipment is completed by a competent person — someone with the necessary skills, knowledge, and understanding to perform the task safely.

This course is structured to help you meet that standard of competence. The certification provides clear evidence of training and demonstrated ability, which is widely accepted by employers, insurers, and auditors as proof that you can carry out PAT testing in accordance with HSE guidance and workplace safety expectations.

Key Features of This PAT Testing Course

  • One-day intensive training course
  • Online and classroom options available
  • Practical, hands-on training
  • Detailed explanations delivered clearly
  • Industry recognised certificate
  • Self paced online course option
  • Download instantly digital certificate
  • Suitable for beginners
  • Strongly recommend for organisations seeking to maintain electrical equipment safely

Why PAT Testing Matters

Failure to properly maintain portable electrical equipment can lead to electric shock, equipment damage, and electrical fires. Regular inspection and testing helps:

  • Reduce workplace accidents
  • Comply with health and safety executive guidance
  • Protect staff and visitors
  • Prevent costly downtime
  • Demonstrate due diligence under work equipment regulations

PAT testing training ensures you have the knowledge and practice required to perform testing confidently within your organisation.

Further Information

If you require further information about course content, entry requirements, equipment, or online training options, our team is available to assist.

Complete your PAT testing course with confidence and gain the skills required to test portable appliances safely in any professional work environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this PAT testing course officially recognised?

Yes. After successful completion, you will receive a PAT testing certificate confirming that you have completed formal PAT testing training and demonstrated competence in the in service inspection and testing of electrical equipment.

Is PAT testing a legal requirement?

There is no law that states you must hold a specific formal qualification to carry out PAT testing. However, under the Work Act and Work Equipment Regulations, there is a legal requirement to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition.

This means that any electrical equipment used in a work environment must be properly maintained to prevent danger, including electric shock and electrical fires. Portable appliance testing is a recognised method of meeting this duty.

Do I need prior electrical experience?

No. All No prior electrical experience is required.

This training course is designed for beginners and assumes only basic knowledge of workplace safety. The course content provides detailed explanations and builds your understanding step by step, covering everything from formal visual inspection to electrical tests using a PAT device.

If you can follow clear instructions and understand basic safety principles, you can complete this course successfully. testing equipment is provided on the day. If you already own a tester, you are welcome to bring it along, but it is not required.

I’m not an electrician. Can I still carry out PAT testing?

Yes. You do not need to be a qualified electrician to test portable appliances.

The Health and Safety Executive states that testing should be carried out by a competent person — someone with the knowledge needed and practical skills to complete service inspection and testing safely. This PAT training is specifically designed to help you become that competent person.

Do I need to bring my own PAT tester?

No, you do not need to bring your own PAT tester.

For classroom training, all portable appliance testing equipment is provided. You will use professional PAT tester devices during the practical sessions.

If you already own a PAT device, you are welcome to bring it for practice, but it is not required.

For online PAT testing courses, we explain how to use portable appliance testing equipment in detail. If you plan to carry out PAT testing after course completion, you will need access to a suitable PAT tester in order to perform electrical testing in the workplace.

Will I be confident after just one day?

Yes. The course is structured to combine knowledge with hands-on practice.

You will:

  • Perform formal visual inspection
  • Conduct electrical tests
  • Interpret results
  • Complete record keeping
  • Follow structured testing procedures

By the end of the day, most learners feel fully confident in their ability to carry out PAT testing safely and correctly.

What if I fail the assessment?

Assessment is designed to confirm understanding, not to catch you out.

You will complete:

  • A supervised practical assessment
  • A short knowledge check

Instructors provide guidance throughout the training. If you need additional support during the day, it will be given. The aim is to ensure successful completion, not create unnecessary pressure.

If you're unable to pass, we offer a 100% money back guarantee.

Does the PAT testing certificate expire?

There is no fixed expiry date.

However, refresher PAT training is strongly recommended every three years to ensure your knowledge remains aligned with current work regulations, safety executive guidance, and best practice in the testing of electrical equipment.

What equipment will I learn to test?

You will learn how to test portable appliances and portable electrical equipment typically found in workplaces, including:

  • Office electrical appliances
  • IT equipment
  • Kitchen appliances
  • Hand tools
  • Extension leads

The course explains how to identify appliance classes and apply the correct testing procedures.

Is online PAT testing as good as classroom training?

Both formats deliver the same core knowledge and structured course content.

Classroom training offers direct hands-on practice with equipment provided.
Online PAT testing allows flexible learning and can be completed as a self paced online course or via live instruction.

If you prefer guided practical experience, classroom training may suit you better. If flexibility is important, the online course provides the same theoretical foundation.

Do I need to understand advanced electrical theory?

No. The course focuses on practical application rather than complex electrical theory.

You will gain the basic knowledge required to:

  • Identify electrical faults
  • Understand risk assessments
  • Prevent electric shock
  • Reduce the risk of electrical fires

Everything is explained in clear, straightforward language.

Will this allow me to start a PAT testing business?

Yes. Many learners complete this PAT testing training course specifically to offer portable appliance testing as a service.

The PAT training certificate demonstrates competence and can be presented to clients as evidence of training. You will also understand record keeping, documentation, and safe working practice required in a professional work environment.

What if I make a mistake when testing equipment in real life?

The course teaches you structured testing procedures and emphasises formal visual inspection before electrical testing. This reduces risk significantly.

You will learn when not to test equipment, how to identify damage, and how to document results correctly. Following proper training helps prevent errors and ensures safe practice.

How quickly will I receive my certificate?

After successful completion, your digital certificate is issued within one working day by email. It can be  used as evidence of training for employers, insurers, or clients.

Is this suitable if I’m responsible for workplace safety?

Yes. This course is ideal for anyone responsible for maintaining electrical equipment within a work environment.

It supports compliance with health and safety executive guidance and demonstrates due diligence under work equipment regulations.

Why Train With Us?

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