PAT testing — short for Portable Appliance Testing — is the routine inspection and electrical testing of portable electrical equipment to confirm it is safe for continued use. The term 'portable' applies to any electrical appliance that can be plugged into the mains supply, moved, and used in different locations. This includes everything from computers and kettles to power tools and extension leads.
What Does PAT Testing Involve?
A PAT test consists of two main elements: a visual inspection and, where appropriate, an electrical test using specialist equipment. The visual inspection checks for obvious faults such as damaged cables, cracked plugs, burn marks, or signs of overheating. The electrical test — performed with a dedicated PAT tester — measures insulation resistance, earth continuity, and other electrical parameters to identify hidden faults that aren't visible to the naked eye.
Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement?
PAT testing itself is not directly required by a specific law — but the obligation to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition certainly is. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require employers to ensure that all electrical systems and equipment under their control are maintained in a safe condition. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 also places a general duty of care on employers towards employees and visitors. PAT testing is the widely accepted method of demonstrating compliance with these obligations.
Who Needs PAT Testing?
Any organisation that uses portable electrical appliances in a workplace setting should consider PAT testing. This includes offices, shops, schools, hotels, warehouses, factories, landlord properties, and construction sites. If you supply electrical appliances to others — as a landlord, event hire company, or equipment rental business — you also have an obligation to ensure those appliances are safe.
- Employers with offices, shops, or commercial premises
- Landlords who supply electrical appliances with tenancies
- Schools, colleges, and universities
- Hotels, restaurants, and hospitality businesses
- Factories, warehouses, and industrial facilities
- Construction companies with portable tools and equipment
- Event organisers and equipment hire companies
What Happens During a PAT Test Visit?
When our engineers visit your premises, they systematically work through all portable electrical appliances, performing a visual inspection followed by electrical testing where required. Each appliance is labelled with a colour-coded pass or fail sticker showing the date of testing and the retest due date. At the end of the visit, you receive a detailed test report listing every appliance, its test results, and any recommendations.
How Often Should PAT Testing Be Done?
Testing frequency depends on the type of equipment and the environment in which it's used. Standard office equipment is typically tested annually. Equipment in harsher environments — such as construction sites or industrial workshops — may need testing every 3 to 6 months. The IET Code of Practice provides guidance on recommended testing intervals based on equipment type and usage.
Why Choose a Professional PAT Testing Company?
While basic visual inspections can be carried out by a competent person, electrical testing requires specialist equipment and training. A professional PAT testing company provides certified engineers, proper testing equipment, detailed documentation, and legal compliance certificates. At MES PAT Testing Ltd, our NICEIC-certified engineers have tested over 50,000 appliances annually for more than 20 years, giving you complete confidence in your electrical safety compliance.
