What Is PAT Testing?

What is PAT testing?

Portable Appliance Testing, commonly referred to as PAT testing, is the process of examining an appliance and certifying that it is fit for use. The first step when PAT testing an appliance is to ensure that there is no damage to the exterior of the power cable of the plug. Next, the PAT tester will check the internal wiring of the plug and the fuse. The appliance is then plugged into a PAT testing machine that conducts a series of tests to determine whether the appliance is safe. Should an appliance fail at any stage during the process its plug is bound to prevent use and it deemed hazardous. If you allow your staff or tenants to continue using the appliance and an incident should occur, you will be held liable and potentially face prosecution.

Now you know what PAT testing is, what regulations require you to conduct them?

It is a legal requirement that all landlords and businesses ensure that all appliances are safe to use and are maintained in such way. There are no regulations stating that PAT testing itself should be carried out. Though acts including the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 do place some sort of duty on the employer to maintain electrical equipment and safety.  PAT testing is probably the most efficient and cost effective way of complying with these regulations, as it is a quick and straight forward procedure.

Landlords are required under The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994, to test all appliances with a power socket. Failing to comply could result in prosecution, a fine or even a jail sentence.