Phase 01
The Challenge.
In a high-density, multi-use production environment like Platform Media, electrical demands are exceptionally complex.
All equipment operates within a single, highly active studio space containing broadcast-grade LED panels, camera rigs, active props, refreshment vending machines, and post-production Mac Studios. Subjected to constant reconfiguration, these power connections face continuous wear. Platform Media required a thorough portable appliance testing (PAT) audit for staff safety and insurer compliance. However, historical test logs from a previous contractor raised immediate concerns due to massive inventory discrepancies on site.
Phase 02
The Solution.
Operating as a solo InfiiniTest engineer, I spent 1½ days conducting a meticulous, hands-on audit across every item in the studio.
Instead of skipping complex or hard-to-reach setups, I individually cataloged and tested every powered asset across the studio floor:
- Lighting & Rigging: High-output production lights, overhead rigs, dimmers, and extension looms.
- Active Props & Stage Effects: Custom electrical props, motorized set pieces, and temporary stage cabling.
- Broadcast Hardware: Mac Studios, multi-monitor displays, video switchers, and reference monitors.
- Refreshment & Ancillary Kit: On-site refreshment machines, coffee units, and standard IT infrastructure.
Tested Asset Spectrum
Full hands-on electrical compliance coverage across all studio production, prop, refreshment, and IT equipment.
Lighting & Stage Props
Comprehensive testing of high-draw studio lighting rigs, extension looms, dimmers, and active electrical props.
Broadcast & Mac Studios
Earth continuity and insulation resistance checks on Mac Studio workstations, reference monitors, and editing bays.
Refreshment & IT Kit
Safety checks across commercial refreshment machines, kitchen appliances, printers, and core network hardware.
Phase 03
The Result.
The solo audit uncovered over 170 electrical devices in the studio that had been completely missed by the previous PAT testing company.
Out of 223 total appliances tested, the audit identified 3 critical failures—including damaged power cables with exposed conductors and earth continuity faults. These items were immediately decommissioned, tagged, and quarantined on site to prevent accidental use. Platform Media was issued a fully digitised asset register and compliance certificate satisfying regulatory and insurance requirements.
"Superficial compliance checks create a false sense of security. In studio production environments where high-draw lighting and dynamic prop setups are constantly reconfigured, untested equipment poses a genuine fire and electrical shock hazard. InfiiniTest gave us complete confidence in our facility safety."