Legal Requirements
Pat Testing Regulations
Conforming to PAT testing regulations will help you to ensure that
the portable appliances in your business are safe and help you to
avoid violations. PAT testing legislation was put into effect to ensure
that all companies conform to the Health and Safety at Work Act of
1974, Electricity at Work Regulations of 1989, Provision and Use of
Work Equipment regulations of 1998 and the Management of Health
and Safety at Work regulations of 1999.
The current law requires that all employers maintain portable
appliances and ensure their safety. This is done through testing of
the appliances to safeguard against damage and to make certain
that these items perform properly.
PAT testing law requires that all landlords, employers and even self-
employed individuals make sure that their portable electrical
appliances are safe and are suitable and used for the purposes
intended. These appliances should always be maintained properly
and remain in good working order.
The guidelines are designed to make certain that this equipment is
kept protected and is preserved through regular maintenance as well
as inspections and periodic testing. Damage and fault can occur with
all electrical equipment use which makes it essential that these items
are tested regularly for safety.
© Abele Electrical Testing
PAT testing is done to ensure that all electrical equipment that is
classified as “portable” is deemed safe for use. The legislation deems
that any competent person can perform it by using a PAT instrument or
tester. The visual examination of each appliance in addition to the actual
PAT test should be performed only by someone who is deemed
competent.
According to PAT testing legislation, a competent person is someone
who has experience or knowledge of being able to check and test
appliances for safety purposes. Those with knowledge of electricity in
general as well as anyone who has experience in electrical work can be
deemed capable.
It is imperative that employers, landlords and self-employed individuals
follow the rules to ensure that their workplaces are safe. Testing can be
done by any number of PAT testing companies like ours and we provide
a first class and professional service. We will advise on any equipment
failures and any actions that need to be done. We never up sell. We
will fit a new fuse that may be better suited to the equipment under
test free of charge. Any cracked plug we will replace for a very modest
fee. Any equipment e.g. an extension lead, that is faulty we will advise
on repair or condemn.