Checking a plug

All UK modern appliances in the UK use the familiar square-pin 13-amp
plug. These plugs are used for handheld appliances such as hairdryers
and vacuum cleaners, and appliances like microwave ovens. The plug
and cable can suffer damage, particularly if they connect to handheld
appliances. Checking a plug and its cable does not need a lot of
detailed electrical knowledge and these tips should help. With the
plug removed from the socket, check the cable from end to end and
ask the following questions.
1 Is the cable securely attached to the appliance and the plug?
2 Is the cable cut, nicked or damaged in any way?
There should preferably be no joints in the cable, and certainly no
repairs with insulating tape.