Regulations do not dictate how often PAT testing should be done, only that it should be done “regularly”.
If the point of the testing is to maintain a safe environment for workers, customers and those who hire equipment, then the testing should be done as often a necessary to ensure equipment is functioning properly.
The first step of PAT testing is to determine which appliances qualify as both portable and electronic.
Two simple guidelines you can use are as follows:
- If you can carry it or roll it to a new location with relative ease, it’s portable.
- If it plugs in, it’s electronic.
Make a list of all such items in your place of business.
Based on the risk each item on your list may pose, establish a testing schedule, we will help you to asses anyone of your appliances.
Lower risk appliances can be tested less frequently than those that pose a higher risk.
Some items may only need to be tested every five years, others annually, and still other more frequently.
Set a schedule and mark your calendar as though the testing is a business appointment to ensure that testing is indeed done regularly.
Additionally, inform employees and customers of the importance of reporting malfunctioning equipment so that it can quickly be repaired.
Keeping track of appliances and testing dates also provides evidence of testing to any regulators who may ask.
Is PAT Testing Compulsory?
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Electricity at Work Regulations Act of 1989, it is required that portable electrical equipment must be maintained to a suitable standard and comply with statutory obligations and so must be checked regularly.
Current legislation does not state how frequently inspections or testing must occur and there are no legal requirements to do this every year.
But if an injury occurs to improper maintenance to equipment or appliances, then employers or property owners can be held accountable.
Areas We Cover For PAT Testing
Our PAT testing team is composed of highly qualified engineers who have great experience when it comes to PAT.
Every member of the team is fully trained, insured and DBS checked. In addition, our engineers are all continually assessed and are fully accredited by the most recognised UK electrical body, the NICEIC.
Our team of engineers is able to complete PAT testing in all of the following areas:
- Bracknell
- Caversham
- Henley-on-Thames
- Oxford
- Reading
- Windsor
- Wokingham
- Maidenhead
- Sandhurst
- Slough
- Newbury
- Thatcham
- Crowthorne
- Woodley
- Eton
- Berkshire
- Buckinghamshire
At EMS Electrical, our engineers are fully trained in all aspects of the inspection and testing of electrical installations. We have all the experience when it comes to electrical testing.
For more Information about arranging a PAT test or to discuss any other electrical requirement you may have, please don’t hesitate to contact us at EMS Electrical HERE.
