If you are responsible for workplace electrical safety, doing testing correctly and safely is an absolute must, but then having the correct accessories will greatly improve your speed and efficiency when testing.
Since Metrotest has its own test and tag division we asked our technicians what accessories make the most difference and this is what they came up with from having done thousands of tests and using the accessories themselves.
What Are We Looking For With Our Accessories?
When looking at what accessories have made our list we want to consider several things;
- Does it improve the speed and efficiency of testing
- How often will it need to be used
- Will it allow you expand your testing capability
- Does it make testing easier
Below, you can see the accessories that have made our list.
IEC Cloverleaf Adaptor
Standard Portable Appliance Testers accept straight IEC power connections. Many common devices, such as laptop power supplies, projectors or other small appliances, use a “cloverleaf” power connection that won’t fit a standard IEC socket.
The IEC Cloverleaf Adaptor resolves this by allowing cloverleaf-connector leads to be plugged into a PAT tester, enabling a full suite of safety tests including earth continuity, insulation resistance and polarity checks. Without this adaptor you may not be able to test certain leads at all, which can affect compliance and safety.
If you are doing a lot of IT equipment, this one will really come in handy.
Klever Kutter Test & Tag Cutter
Removing old test tags is a necessary part of the test and tag process. Using general-purpose scissors or knives risks cutting into appliance leads, especially flexible cables, which can create unseen damage or compromise safety.
A purpose-designed test tag cutter such as the Klever Kutter makes removing tags fast, safe and precise. No need to fluff or accidently cut yourself with a pair of scissors because you weren’t paying attention.
Although, one of our technicians did cut themselves with one (still not quite sure how).
Red IEC Lead
You might argue aren’t there better choices for this list, but Identifying test leads clearly on busy sites can save time and reduce errors. A coloured IEC lead, such as the red IEC lead provides a visible, stand-out connection option when conducting tests.
Colour-coded leads are especially useful when identifying leads during high-volume jobs. The contrast against standard black leads helps you work more efficiently and maintains clarity in complex testing environments.
These also don’t have to cost you an arm and a leg to get. Shop around for the best price for one.
Extra Fuses
Fuses are not an accessory you would ever think about needing until you actually need it but when you do, it can really save you in a pinch to have a few spare on hand.
While it isn’t often that you would need to replace fuses, not having them when you need them could really interfere with a job. We recommend that you keep them spare with your tester, and if your tester comes with a bag with a zipped pocket, then store them there for when you need them as they can be really easy to lose.
Clear Test Tag Overlays – 500 Roll
This one is a must have if you are testing in workshops or construction sites. Test tags are only effective if they remain intact and legible throughout their use cycle. Exposed to dust, moisture and handling, tags can quickly wear and become unreadable.
Clear overlays improve the durability of your tags by providing a protective layer over the printed information. This prolongs readability and helps maintain compliance with safety documentation expectations. An easy-to-use roll of clear overlays is an efficient way to protect tags, especially for equipment used in harsh environments. If you think an items tag is likely to get a lot of wear before the next testing round, simply put one over the top of the tag and you are good to go.
Portable Appliance Tester 3-Phase Leakage Clamp (Optional)
This one of course is optional, but if you want to expand what you can offer in testing for clients, this is a must have next step. Standard PAT testing typically covers single-phase appliances. Larger industrial machines and three-phase equipment require additional capability to measure leakage current accurately. A 3-phase leakage clamp accessory allows you to extend the functionality of your tester to handle three-phase leakage measurements.
Although optional, a 3-phase leakage clamp becomes invaluable when servicing industrial or commercial equipment with three-phase power. It broadens the scope of what you can test safely and accurately using your existing PAT tester.
Interested in 3-phase testing options? Check out our 3-phase Prokit EasiPAT 10 kit, designed so you don’t even have to have a 3-phase clamp.
Conclusion
Investing in the right test and tag accessories improves testing accuracy, expands what your PAT tester can handle, and streamlines your workflow. From adaptors and specialised leads to tag protection and extended reach options, these extras support safer, more efficient testing.
For a complete selection of test and tag accessories, visit the Metrotest accessories to check out our full range available.
Safe testing everyone!
