Portable Appliance Testing: Key Facts

By April 29, 2019 May 17th, 2019 News & Communications

PAT stands for portable appliance testing and is the term used to describe the testing of electrical equipment to ensure it is safe for use. We have been carrying out PAT testing for many years and in our latest post, we discuss key fact regarding portable appliance testing so you can ensure that your equipment is always in good working order.

What is PAT Testing?

As the name suggests, portable appliance testing is the testing of electrical equipment to ensure it is safe to use. Whilst it is true that many defects can be found by a visual examination, some can’t and testing will be required to ensure they are safe to use.

How Often Does my Equipment need Testing?

There are some myths that electrical equipment needs to be tested once a year, however, this is not the case. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 state that all electrical equipment that has the potential to cause injury must be maintained in a safe condition, but it does not state at what frequency equipment needs to undergo a PAT test.

Is PAT Testing Compulsory?

There is no law which states that PAT testing is compulsory. However, when it comes to electrical equipment, employers should take a risk-based approach, always ensuring that the equipment is safe to use, with no damage to the wires or plug visible.

London Electricians

We have been offering PAT Testing of electrical equipment for many years. Whether you own a small business and need to ensure that all of your equipment is in good working order or are a landlord that wants to have all appliances in a home checked, we can help. For more information on our services, please call today on 020 8728 9179 or send your enquiry through to our online contact form.