Electrical safety in healthcare settings is particularly critical. Patients are often vulnerable, some clinical areas are infection-controlled, and certain medical equipment operates near life-critical devices where electrical faults could be catastrophic. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) requires all registered healthcare providers to maintain safe premises and equipment.
CQC Requirements for Electrical Safety
CQC Regulation 15 (Premises and Equipment) requires registered providers to ensure that all equipment used in the delivery of regulated activities is safe, suitable, clean, and properly maintained. Inspectors will review maintenance records including electrical testing documentation. Failing to maintain current PAT testing records can result in a CQC requirement or warning notice.
Medical Devices vs. General Electrical Appliances
It's important to distinguish between medical devices (regulated under the Medical Devices Regulations and maintained by manufacturers or specialist engineers) and general electrical appliances in a healthcare setting. PAT testing applies to the latter: computers, printers, sterilisation equipment, kitchen appliances, vacuum cleaners, and other portable electrical equipment that isn't a medical device.
Infection Control During Testing
PAT testing in clinical areas must be conducted in a manner that respects infection control protocols. Our engineers follow hand hygiene procedures, wear appropriate PPE where required, avoid unnecessary contact with clinical surfaces, and follow any specific instructions from the infection control team. We can test equipment in situ where possible to minimise the need to bring it into clean areas.
Types of Healthcare Premises We Cover
- GP surgeries and health centres
- Dental practices and orthodontic clinics
- Physiotherapy and sports medicine clinics
- Opticians and audiology practices
- Pharmacies and dispensaries
- Private hospitals and day surgery centres
- Mental health and community care settings
