What Is PAT Testing and Why Is It Important?

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. Here is everything you need to know about what it involves and why it matters.

Understanding PAT Testing

PAT testing involves a combination of visual inspection and electrical testing of portable appliances. The process checks for faults that could cause electric shock or fire. A trained PAT tester examines each appliance for visible damage (frayed cables, cracked casings, bent pins) and then uses a specialist PAT tester device to check the earth continuity, insulation resistance, and other electrical safety parameters.

What Counts as a Portable Appliance?

A portable appliance is any electrical equipment that has a plug and can be moved. This includes obvious items like kettles, toasters, and computers, but also less obvious items like photocopiers, vending machines, extension leads, and power tools. Even items that are not regularly moved but are plugged in — such as fridges, washing machines, and microwaves — should be included in PAT testing.

Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement?

There is no single law that specifically requires PAT testing by name. However, several pieces of legislation require employers and landlords to ensure that electrical equipment is safe. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require that all electrical systems and equipment are maintained to prevent danger. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 places a general duty on employers to ensure the safety of their employees. The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords to keep electrical installations in repair and proper working order.

PAT testing is the recognised and accepted method of demonstrating compliance with these requirements.

Who Needs PAT Testing?

PAT testing is essential for landlords with furnished rental properties, businesses and offices, schools, hospitals and care homes, churches and community centres, hotels and guest houses, construction sites, and any organisation that has a duty of care for the safety of others.