Businesses that offer accommodations, including holiday rentals, flats, and even boats, also need to comply with the requirement, especially if they have class one appliances such as kettles, microwaves, and washing machines. Is the item moved? Damage is associated with movement… the more it is moved, the higher the risk value The vacuum cleaner was heavily used. The manager remembered that the cable was repaired 6 months ago by an electrician as it had been pulled out of the cable grip, so she knew that in future it would need to be looked at more often. It was decided that the vacuum should have a visual inspection every 6 months and that employees would be encouraged to look for signs of damage to the plug and cable before plugging it in. This should only be carried out by a competent person with the correct training and equipment. It is strongly recommended to employ an experienced and qualified PAT tester for the safest results.

Employers have responsibility for electrical appliance testing. However, it's quite common for this duty to be assigned to a ‘competent person’. The competent person should: Who uses the item? A trained member of staff is a lower risk than an untrained member of the public Unless you have a very good understanding of the workings of electrical equipment, and the relevant training to be able to use and fully understand portable appliance testers, it is not recommended that you carry out your own PAT test. It could put you, your business and other users at risk. Always seek a fully qualified and experienced professional to carry out the testing. Electrical equipment’, is defined in the Code as an “Any item for such purposes as generation, conversion, transmission, distribution or utilization of electrical energy, such as machines, transformers, equipment, measuring instruments, protective devices, wiring systems, accessories, appliances and luminaires.” Electrical equipment, therefore, includes most (if not all) of the items of electrical equipment to be found in a workplace; whether they have a plug or not.For example, some items of Class II equipment may no longer require testing, with a visual inspection being satisfactory on its own. The high-current earth bond test has given way to a preference for a lower-current one. The insulation testing voltage has also been revised, taking into account the design of modern electrical and electronic equipment. However, most workplaces will have staff members or duty holders who are responsible for conducting regular visual inspections of electrical equipment to ensure they are safe. They are also responsible for ensuring annual PAT tests are carried out and recording results. Duty holders should receive additional training to ensure they have the knowledge and understanding to carry out the role competently. What is a PAT test certificate?

PAT testing is key to ensuring adherence to essential safety standards. It's regarded as the easiest and most effective way of ensuring that workplace electrical appliances are safe to use. As previously mentioned, the expected regularity of PAT testing will depend on the categorisation of electrical appliances and the findings of risk assessments. How Do You Use a PAT Tester? Find out more about Class I and Class II electrical items How often do I need a PAT test? (In service inspection and testing of electrical equipment) PAT testing equipment has various levels of functionality. Basic PASS/FAIL kits are very easy to use and relatively inexpensive. They are the preferred choice for a range of businesses, clearly indicating whether an item of electrical equipment has passed or failed. Mains-powered testers require connection to an electrical supply. However, the self-contained battery versions are ideal for large workplaces due to their portability and ease of use. They commonly feature basic light systems that indicate whether electrical items have passed or failed the test. The classifications for safety are now described as ‘energy source classes’, which is subtly different to the previous methods of description. While to the end-user the changes may be of little consequence in practice, it is important that those performing the inspection and testing of electrical equipment understand the new classifications. Class one items need a full PAT inspection because they have low insulation and rely on earth for protection. The group typically includes photocopiers, industrial machinery, freezers, toasters, irons, laptop cables, vending machines, desktop computers, phone chargers, and microwaves. Class two appliances, such as lamps, televisions, and lawnmowers, are safer because they are double insulated and need an insulation test. Low voltage appliances such as laptops, torches, and cameras fall under class three and are considered the safest.

The majority of these fires are completely preventable, and ensuring electrical equipment is maintained and is safe to use is a key way for businesses to prevent electrical fires. Not only can fires cause loss of life or serious injury, but they can also destroy equipment and premises. Insulation testing involves connecting the tested appliance with the PAT. Typically, a test voltage of 500V DC is then applied to the mains plug terminals. This will ideally result in a high resistance reading being displayed on the PAT screen. However, insufficient insulation between the live parts and earth will result in a current flowing from the insulation to the PAT via the protective earth conductor. The low level of insulation will also be highlighted in the PAT reading. With over 160 qualified electrical engineers available, our experienced team conduct these vital safety tests during your operational hours, without disrupting your customers or staff. We are proud to also be fully accredited by NICEIC, BIFM and CHAS, amongst others. Do I need to PAT test employees’ personal equipment? Yes, you have a joint responsibility with your employee to maintain any equipment used by your employee for their job, including personal laptops, desk lighting, fans or any other electrical equipment they use, including leased items like photocopiers. Who should be responsible for PAT testing in the workplace?

Lastly, many insurance firms require businesses to complete regular PAT inspections. Conducting PAT to maintain high levels of safety in the workplace will make the insurance company view the business favourably. Our very own Tim James (PAT Testing Expert) has been on the panel since it was formed, around 2-years ago, and has attended countless meetings, read many drafts and has had direct involvement in all stages of the production. Through Tim, PATTA has been able to stay involved and up to date with every development, and been able to have an input in what needs to be included, what didn’t and what needed to be changed.

When you factor in accidents caused by faulty equipment in rented properties, this figure grows exponentially. Both businesses and landlords are responsible for ensuring the safety of their employees, tenants, and the public. Ensuring all equipment is adequately PAT tested will help to prevent accidents and injuries. For more information about electrical safety for landlords, consult our knowledge base.