P.A.T. tests for steelies(and others)

[Zumbilly(Murdoch)]

I received a call from a muso friend today saying that it will be necessary to have P.A.T tests in order to play a certain club in our area.
He seems to think a certificate will be issued for each band, I disagreed and said that each player is responsible for His own equipment allowing for some players to play with any band who calls.
I understand the reason for testing but am a little confused as to what is needed. I would guess that many members here will be able to enlighten Me.
I use two four way extensions which obviously need a sticker,I then use a detatchable supply to power amp or preamp(220v) I also connect a low voltage supply to My Vol pedal(24v) and sometimes one of several 9v supplies for effect pedals.
Does My amp and preamp need to be tested and labelled or is it only the power supplies,and do the low voltage supplies need to display a test sticker? Looking at google it would appear that each test would cost no more that £2
Thanks for any help
Billy

[Donny Johnston]

Hi Billy, PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. Any part of your equipment that plugs into the mains and is portable needs to be tested. Sometimes you may have to plug the amp into an extension lead, in that case they both need to be tested. Stay safe. Regards, Donny.

[mick hearn]

When PAT testing was introduced the dance halls and clubs went out of their way to check band gear. That has died off, however it is in your own interest to make sure equipment is safe. Electricians can charge quite a bit for each item - however, labels are available on e-bay. Oops. Did I say that.

[Zumbilly(Murdoch)]

Thanks for the replies.
I have found thru' google that a P.A.T. certificate is not a legal requrement but is at the discretion of the venue to make it one of their rules.These certificates are usually required for Theatres and Council halls. I asked google for a local company who can do the testing and found one who can do 1 to 200 items for around £1.30 per item. I would probably requre about 40 tests and there is a minimum of £53 per order.Does the venue have to display or provide a certificate of electrical conformotary to the bands? With the uncertainty of a venue/gig in the near future it is quite possible that our band could have an outlay of around £300 (for testing and rehearsal room costs) before playing our first gig.There is always the thought of venues asking for a reduced rate for a gig or two.I have heard of a local band saying they will be very pleased to discuss reduced rates with clubs when things start moving; Price War !!!

[Danny Mitchell]

I have heard of a local band saying they will be very pleased to discuss reduced rates with clubs when things start moving; Price War !!!

Please guys! Don't go there, stick to your guns! You know you're worth it!

[bazmusicman]

Does the venue have to display or provide a certificate of electrical conformotary to the bands?

It's a bit like your car MOT......you have to prove that your car is roadworthy, but the roads don't have to be car worthy.

Regards,
Baz.