What is Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)?

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is a way of ensuring all your portable electrical items are safe to use and can identify any issues before they cause problems. We take a closer look at what is involved and why PAT testing is important.

Is PAT testing only necessary for large businesses?

No; PAT testing is necessary for all businesses from sole traders up to large international corporations. If you take electrical items to public areas, it’s best to get them tested to ensure safety.

Is PAT testing a legal requirement for my business?

PAT testing is not a legal requirement, but the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require that any electrical equipment that has the potential to cause injury is maintained in a safe condition; one of the best ways to do this is by PAT testing.

But I won’t be fined or face legal action if I don’t do PAT testing?

Poorly-maintained equipment can lead to serious injuries, even fatalities, and to electrical fires in the workplace. If somebody suffered an injury during an incident which was down to poor maintenance/lack of testing, it could lead to prosecution by the HSE due to your failure to comply with the Electricity at Work Act.

How often should my business carry out PAT testing?

There are no set rules on how often you should test your equipment; recommendations vary depending upon several factors.

• Your work environment: for example, construction tools should be tested more frequently than bedside lamps in hotels as they can become damaged during use on site
• How portable the equipment is: fixed IT appliances such as desk monitors require testing less frequently than laptops
• The risk assessments your company has in place
• Your company insurance requirements

Do I need to test all my electrical equipment?

The simple answer is yes; all items with a plug (and some hard-wired items) need to be tested regularly.

Does PAT testing help reduce equipment failures and downtime?

PAT testing is proven to reduce equipment failures and therefore downtime. Simple testing and maintenance can spot something like a frayed cable and replace/repair it before it causes an injury or starts a fire.

What happens during a PAT test?

During a test we carry out a full visual inspection of the item, checking for any signs of damage; we also ensure the plug is correctly wired and complies with current British Standard. We then plug the item into our test equipment and carry out the relevant check for the class of item, such as Earth Continuity & Insulation Resistance.

How long does PAT testing take?

It can take as little as 60 seconds to test a piece of equipment. Industrial plugs (110v, 240v & 415v) will take a little longer to test.

What’s the difference between visual inspections and full PAT tests?

A PAT test will require calibrated test equipment for it to be carried out; both visual and full tests require a competent person to carry out the inspections.

What should I look for in a PAT testing provider?

Word of mouth is the best recommendation, but you should ensure that all engineers are qualified/competent & Enhanced DBS checked. The company should be able to supply calibration certificates for all equipment tested, plus a full certificate and full report including readings; this will help show deterioration in equipment or highlight possible failures.  Check if there are any hidden extras in the price.

Do new appliances need PAT testing?

No; if you purchase something brand new it won’t need testing, but check when your next testing is due to take place as it may be better to get it done. As with anything, please take care where you purchase your items from and ensure they comply with current British Standards.

How do I book a visit?

To receive a no-obligation quote or learn more, please contact our Risk Solutions at 01427 420 404 or email risksolutions@skaltd.co.uk