ABSTRACT
Training is building on the knowledge and experience we already have, therefore each person's training needs will be different. It is possible to learn portable appliance testing (PAT) on own without attending a formal course. This route is particularly suited to those who already possess some knowledge and experience of the subject. Informal training courses offer a better range of choice and have content we may not find in the more rigid structure of formal course. Training providers wishing to offer these formal courses must first be approved to do so by the awarding organisation who will then carry out regular monitoring visits to ensure that the training provider operates to the high standards expected. A formal training course is one in which the content and assessments are designed and regulated by a national organisation. There are two main types of formal training course available for portable appliance testing; offered by City & Guilds and Eal approved training providers.
