HomeUseful Tools and Accessories for PAT Testing
If you carry out Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) on a regular basis, a few simple accessories can make the job quicker, safer and more comfortable. (This page contains Amazon affiliate links. If you buy via these links we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.)
If you're building a toolkit from scratch, you may also find these guides useful: how to become a PAT tester, and managing PAT testing.
Key Takeaways
Comfort matters - knee pads and a decent bag reduce fatigue on larger jobs.
Small repairs save time - a parts organiser and wire strippers help you fix minor plug issues on the spot.
Consumables catch people out - keep common fuses and a good marker pen to avoid delays.
Start with the supply - a socket tester can quickly highlight wiring problems before you begin.
Be ready for awkward kit - adaptors and leads help when plugs aren’t standard.
Who This List Is For
- PAT contractors: prioritise speed, durability, and carrying comfort (knee pads, bag, quick repairs, adaptors).
- In-house testers: prioritise convenience and consistency (socket tester, organiser, labels/markers, spare fuses).
Knee Pads
PAT testing in offices often means kneeling under desks to reach sockets, plugs and equipment. A good pair of knee pads makes this far more comfortable. We recommend work trousers with knee pad pockets fitted with flexible foam pads. Unlike strap-on pads that dig into the back of your legs, these can be worn all day.
Amazon: Scruffs Work Trousers with Knee Pads
Small Parts Organiser
A small box of spare parts is handy for minor repairs. You’ll often find plugs with a broken cord grip, missing screws, or damaged fuse carriers. Having spares means you can fix small issues quickly rather than replacing the whole plug.
Many PAT testers build up a stock of useful parts from plugs that have been replaced (cord grips, fuse holders, screws etc.). Just make sure anything reused is in good condition.
Permanent Marker Pens
A good marker pen makes labelling quicker and cleaner. The best ones we’ve found are Stabilo Write-4-all Superfine, they last for ages, write on almost any surface, don’t smudge easily, and don’t instantly dry out if the lid is left off.
3.15A & 5A Cartridge Fuses
3.15A and 5A cartridge fuses are commonly found in desk-mounted power strips where each socket is individually fused. They are often blown because someone has used the strip for heaters, vacuum cleaners or other high-power appliances, rather than the IT equipment it was intended for.
These are not standard BS 1362 plug fuses. They are typically 20mm x 5mm, so keeping a small pack can save a return visit. For more on fuse selection and common problems, see our guide to fuse ratings.
RS Components: 3.15A Fuses
RS Components: 5A Fuses
Wire Strippers
This style of automatic wire stripper works well for removing both the outer sheath and the insulation on internal conductors. The original patent has lapsed, so many manufacturers make similar tools, but quality varies, it’s generally worth sticking to known brands.
Amazon: Automatic Wire Strippers
Socket Tester
Before you start testing, it’s often useful to do a quick check of the socket outlet you’ll be using, especially in older buildings or temporary setups. A socket tester can quickly highlight common wiring issues (for example polarity problems or missing earth) before you connect equipment and begin recording results.
We stock a socket tester here: socket tester.
PAT Testing Adaptors
An adaptor simply provides a safe interface between the appliance connector and the PAT tester so you can carry out the usual tests (earth continuity, insulation, polarity where applicable).
- IEC 60309 (CEE) industrial adaptors – typically 16A and 32A in 230V, 110V and 3-phase, for site and workshop equipment.
- IEC appliance lead adaptors – for common IEC connectors found on IT equipment (for example the C5 “cloverleaf”).
If you’re carrying out PAT testing commercially (as a service/business), you’ll quickly find you need a selection of adaptors to cover the most common situations you’ll encounter on different sites. We supply a range of PAT testing adaptors, and our industrial adaptor kit includes the most commonly used IEC 60309 connectors in 16A and 32A sizes.
Tool Bag
A decent tool bag makes moving around larger sites much easier. A shoulder strap helps when you’re carrying a PAT tester, adaptors, labels, tools and spares. Soft tool bags with a hard base are a good option because they’re stable on the floor and protect the contents when you’re working room-to-room.