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20 + YEARS
COMMERCIAL
MULTI-SITE
WHAT IS PAT-TESTING?
Portable Appliance Testing, commonly known as PAT testing, is the inspection and testing of electrical appliances and equipment to check that they are safe to use. PAT testing normally combines a visual inspection with electrical tests appropriate to the type of equipment. A visual inspection can identify issues such as damaged plugs, exposed wiring, cracked casings, incorrect fuses or damaged power leads. Electrical testing can then identify certain faults that may not be visible during inspection. HSE confirms that both visual examination and, where appropriate, formal inspection and testing can form part of an effective electrical maintenance programme.
Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement?
This is one of the most common questions businesses ask us.
There is no UK law that specifically states every electrical appliance must receive a PAT test every year.
However, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require electrical equipment that could cause injury to be maintained in a safe condition.
PAT testing is one recognised way businesses can help monitor the condition and safety of electrical equipment as part of an appropriate maintenance programme.
The frequency and level of inspection should reflect factors such as:
- the type of appliance
- how frequently it is used
- whether it is regularly moved
- the environment in which it operates
- its condition and history
- the likelihood of damage
For example, equipment used regularly on a construction site may require inspection more frequently than a desktop computer used in a low-risk office.
WHAT EQUIPMENT CAN BE TESTED?
This is one of the most common questions businesses ask us.
There is no UK law that specifically states every electrical appliance must receive a PAT test every year.
However, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require electrical equipment that could cause injury to be maintained in a safe condition.
PAT testing is one recognised way businesses can help monitor the condition and safety of electrical equipment as part of an appropriate maintenance programme.
The frequency and level of inspection should reflect factors such as:
- the type of appliance
- how frequently it is used
- whether it is regularly moved
- the environment in which it operates
- its condition and history
- the likelihood of damage
For example, equipment used regularly on a construction site may require inspection more frequently than a desktop computer used in a low-risk office.
What Happens During a PAT Test?
Equipment is checked for visible signs of deterioration or damage, including plugs, cables, casings and connections.
Electrical testing
Where required, appropriate electrical tests are carried out using specialist testing equipment.
Identification of failed equipment
Equipment that does not meet the required safety criteria is identified so that appropriate action can be taken.
Recording and reporting
Clear test records provide businesses with useful evidence of their electrical maintenance programme and help them manage future inspections.
Although HSE does not make labels or PAT records a universal legal requirement, it specifically recognises records and labelling as useful management tools for demonstrating that a maintenance system exists.
FAQ'S
There is no single PAT testing interval that applies to every business or every appliance.
Testing frequency should be determined according to risk.
Equipment that is:
- frequently moved
- heavily used
- used outdoors
- used on construction sites
- exposed to moisture, dust or physical damage
may require more frequent attention than equipment used in a controlled, low-risk environment.
City PAT can help businesses establish an appropriate testing schedule based on their equipment and working environment.
PAT testing can cover a wide range of electrical appliances and equipment, including:
- computers and monitors
- printers and office equipment
- kettles and kitchen appliances
- extension leads
- power supplies and chargers
- portable tools
- cleaning equipment
- televisions and audio equipment
- catering equipment
- hotel appliances
- workshop equipment
- site tools and electrical equipment
The appropriate inspection and testing process depends on the type and class of equipment being assessed.
We work with organisations of different sizes and across a broad range of sectors, including:
- offices
- schools and education
- hotels
- restaurants and hospitality
- retail
- construction
- healthcare
- landlords and property managers
- government and public-sector buildings
- industrial and commercial premises
City PAT already works with customers ranging from small companies to NHS, education, hotel, restaurant, government and construction organisations.
Yes – Multi-Site PAT Testing
City PAT can provide coordinated testing for organisations operating across multiple locations.
Managing electrical compliance across multiple sites can quickly become complicated.
City PAT can coordinate testing across several properties or locations, helping organisations standardise inspections, scheduling and reporting.
This is particularly useful for:
- retail chains
- property portfolios
- schools and academies
- hotel groups
- facilities management companies
- national businesses
No. HSE states that annual PAT testing is not automatically required for every appliance. Inspection and testing frequency should be based on risk.
New equipment should normally be supplied in a safe condition and does not automatically require formal PAT testing before first use, although a visual check for damage is recommended.
Businesses have a duty to maintain electrical equipment so that it does not present danger. PAT testing can form part of a suitable electrical maintenance programme.
Unsafe equipment should be removed from use or appropriately repaired before being returned to service.