Q & A of the Day – Temporary site lighting PAT

Question: I am part of the construction management team that is extending a chemical plant in Cumbria. I have instructed the electrical contractor to install some 110V fluorescent light fittings in a non-hazardous area. The method we have used is to install a supply and a four-way socket unit. The lights are then plugged into a socket. This makes them easy to move when we come up against pipe or equipment clashes.

The lights are clamped to steel work using Unistrut. They are temporary but not portable. Should the need to be moved arise, it would be the electrical contractor who would unplug it and reposition it.

If I understand the rules on portable equipment correctly, this type of installation is not classed as portable, and therefore would not require PAT. I would like your opinion please.

Answer: This installation is not portable but temporary. As the temporary installation is fitted by a qualified electrician, he should therefore conduct any necessary inspections and tests.

You stated that a four-way socket unit has been used for the supply. If this is a four-way extension lead with a plug on the end, then this is a portable item and will need PAT in its own right!

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