How Do I PAT Test a Cable Reel Fitted With An RCD?

G'day,

Here in Oz we have similiar laws and regulations. To help me with my compliance issues here in the factory I use a PAT tester which has all the bells and whistles.

Its a Trio SafeTcheck Pro Logger. It will perform all manner of tests including "Run" tests for equipment that can't be passively tested as well as testing double insulated equipment. It records all the data, which can be downloaded to a computer for record keeping purposes. I've got all my equipment here barcoded, which makes it easier as it has a barcode gun as part of its kit.

Some of the things I use it for include RCD equipped leads, EPODS, normal extension leads, Power tools, Computers, other test equipment, broadcast radios, personal fans, etc. Company policy is to test and tag anything and everything that is brought into the place. It is easy enough to use, though here you need to be licensed by the Work Cover Authority (Dept Labour & Industry) to write the tags.

Now it wasn't cheap, cost us around $2800.00 in Aussie peso's but with the UK/Oz exchange rate at the moment you probably pay for it out of your morning tea money,,LOL.

I've used a number of different PAT units but this was the best one for our application by far.

You can find they're web site under www.triotest.com.au

Hope that helps

Cheers

Perry

Thanks,

I tried Trio but they don't sell in the UK.

I have sent emails off to Fluke/Robin and Seawards to see what they say.

The online descriptions of their equipment never mention the testing of RCD fitted extension leads.

I know Sewards have an unit in their upper range of instruments that will do RCD equipment, because the Accreditation course I did had both the Trio and the Seward gear for us to use, which is why I bought the Trio...

I'm staggered that Trio didn't want to sell you one, they must be making too much money here.

Cheers

Perry

Hi Tobugrynbak,

I have interest in reading the AS/NZS 3760:2003 standard for Electrical Equipment Inspection, Testing and Tagging.

Since your in the profession of it, would you know of any web site that I could read on the standard.

I've checked some web sites but could not find one that offers good infor on the standard.

It would also be interesting to read on the UK standard.

The Standards Australia website www.SaiGlobal.com/shop has it, however you have to pay for the privilege to download it.

If you google Australian Wiring Standards you will get a lot of responses which point staight to that.

Cheers

Perry