What is PAT testing?

Portable appliance testing (PAT testing) is the process of periodically testing your electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. Although most electrical safety defects can be found by carrying out a visual inspection, some types of defect can only be found by testing.

It generally includes three steps:

1. Regular, informal checks by the user
2. A formal visual inspection of the equipment by a trained & competent person
3. A manual examination of the equipment with a portable appliance tester device (the PAT test), again by a trained & competent person

Is PAT testing a legal requirement?

No. The law does state that any electrical equipment in the workplace must be maintained to ensure it is safe and does not pose any danger, but it does not specify how the equipment should be maintained, or how often, nor who should carry out any maintenance.

PAT testing is recommended as the best way to meet these health and safety obligations and to protect your employees.

See the HSE’s guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

What type of equipment should be PAT tested?

Broadly speaking, if the equipment uses a flexible wire or cable to connect to a power supply it qualifies as a portable appliance and needs to be checked. Electrical appliances are mainly categorised as Class 1, 2 or 3, with Class 1 being the most dangerous and Class 3 the least dangerous.

Class 1 appliances – This type of electrical equipment has only basic insulation and relies on an earth for protection.

The following appliances are usually (but not always) electrical Class 1; this is not an exhaustive list:

• Floor standing printers.
• Photocopiers.
• Industrial machinery.
• Computers.
• Vending machines.
• Washing machines.
• Tumble dryers.
• Dishwashers.
• Refrigerators.
• Freezers.
• Microwaves.
• Kettles.
• Heaters.
• Irons.
• Toasters.
• Mobile phone chargers.
• Laptop cables.
• Extension leads.

Class 2 appliances – This type of electrical equipment has extra insulation and so does not rely on an earth for protection, which makes it safer.

The following appliances are usually (but not always) electrical Class 2; this is not an exhaustive list:

• Desktop printers.
• Lawn mowers.
• Drills.
• Food mixers/blenders.
• Lamps.
• TVs.
• CD/DVD players.
• Hairdryers.
• Hair straighteners.

The following appliances are electrical Class 3; this is not an exhaustive list:

• Laptops.
• Mobile phone.
• Camera.
• Torches.
• Chargers for the above may be Class 1 or 2.

We provide a quality economical solution to all your PAT testing requirements. Our PAT testing service is completed efficiently and thoroughly, working around your needs to ensure the least possible disruption to your business.