Class II debate

[oldtimer]

OK here is one to get your minds going class II equipment lets say you are testing a hot air gun just like in the COPs the earth lead from the tester is on the metal tip you plug it into the PAT tester that links the L&N together injects 500vdc and if there is any leakage to the metal tip then you get a fail OK.

OK now you pick up say a telephone charger it is double insulated there is no metal to clip your earth lead onto so my question is it worth doing the test because if you plug it in to the PAT tester set it to Class II and push the button its going to pass because there is no return path.

Now you are asking whats this about but since getting into PAT I have notice that the electricians like me are questioning this where most of the PAT guys appear to accept that you plug it in and push the button.

comment please

 

[Adam]

I know very little about PAT (Testing), but I am sure I read somewhere that you are supposed to put the earth lead against the insulated casing (ideally around seams) to check for leakage that way.

 

[i=p/u]

id say by going what youve said, theres no sense carrying it out... phone iet... tell them we need new book

- - - Updated - - -

good visual

 

[Adam]

http://www.bigtopmania.co.uk/pdf_downloads/electrical_guidance_documents/pat_introduction.pdf

 

[i=p/u]

A test voltage is applied, usually 500V DC, between the Live &
Neutral conductors linked together and the tip of a test probe.
This probe is moved over the exterior of the case, paying
particular attention to any openings for cooling etc.
We are looking for a high resistance value, and results showing
infinity (∞) are common.

 

[oldtimer]

Adam this looks good but not definitive

 

[i=p/u]

will i go get me code of practice for you oldtimer, just say the word

 

[Adam]

Adam this looks good but not definitive

As I said, I know very little about PAT.
I remember reading instructions from an old tester, whilst an apprentice which stated that.

Quick google found the linked document.

 

[oldtimer]

will i go get me code of practice for you oldtimer, just say the word

I have one

 

[i=p/u]

and your verdict is????????? i guess a good visual is good enough now

 

[oldtimer]

and your verdict is????????? i guess a good visual is good enough now

You need to chill remember dont ask the question unless you know the answer

 

[i=p/u]

touch current would be similar

 

[ohreally]

If its a wall wart with a plastic earth pin, i'd be inclined to leave it with a visual inspection.

 

[Sparky Ninja]

The test will be carried out with the earth lead hovered around all the seams, switches and fixing areas.

It seems weird and takes a few repeat tests but it simulates the casing of the appliance being in contact with earth in the failure of the Class II insulation.

 

[Adam W]

:iagree:
I wouldn't lose too much sleep if I tested a phone charger as widdler suggested if the casing was intact.

 

[MarkieSparkie]

The test will be carried out with the earth lead hovered around all the seams, switches and fixing areas.

It seems weird and takes a few repeat tests but it simulates the casing of the appliance being in contact with earth in the failure of the Class II insulation.

Precisely Widdler, but most testers, particularly non-electricians, seem to think a single test with the earth lead in contact with the case is OK, or as I witnessed last week at a local charity shop without the earth lead even attached to the PAT!

 

[i=p/u]

you have made it clear as daylight wilder......

 

[oldtimer]

Yep Markie thats the point I was trying to put over that PAT guys and some electricians are plugging them in the tester with the earth lead on the floor "pushing" the button and hey its a pass without understanding the circuitry.

Plus the more I get into PAT the more I realize that there is a lot of people doing it with no basic understanding yet they are qualified to test and are convinced that if the tester says pass then thats ok isnt it ? Add this to the failure to check fuse ratings and flex condition and I am thinking what a con.

As I have said before this is not a lecture or a put down but I am speaking to people who have done this for years and still dont have a basic understanding mind if you can get qualified in 5 weeks with the schemies queing up to badge is it any wonder why our trade is seen as a joke

 

[i=p/u]

write to your local rag, saying for persons getting electrical work done , too check certificates with local colleges, but would local colleges reply to these requests , in a sense regulating electrical work...

its upto the customer to deem your competant.. its all a farce ....... no1 cares until someone is hurt..

 

[Jimmy Boy]

What does the written word say in the 'In service............' book say about C2 items ?,
in particular in regards to visuals etc ?

J