What Is It?
PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is a process of checking electrical appliances for safety through a combination of visual inspection and electrical testing using a PAT tester. It covers any electrical equipment that has a plug and can be moved — from kettles and computers to extension leads and power tools. The testing involves a visual check for damage, an earth continuity test (for Class I appliances), insulation resistance testing, and functional checks. A PAT test certificate or report documents the results for each appliance tested.
Who Needs It?
Employers are required to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. This effectively means PAT testing is necessary for all workplaces including offices, shops, factories, schools, hospitals, and construction sites. Landlords who provide electrical appliances with their rental properties should have them PAT tested to demonstrate they are safe. Venues and events that use portable electrical equipment need PAT testing. Charities and community organisations that accept donated electrical goods should test them before use. Homeowners are not legally required to PAT test but may choose to for their own safety.
When Is It Required?
There is no single legal requirement that specifies exact PAT testing intervals. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends a risk-based approach where the testing frequency depends on the type of appliance, the environment it is used in, and how frequently it is used. General guidance suggests: IT equipment in offices every 4-5 years, construction site tools every 3 months, portable appliances in commercial kitchens every year, Class I appliances in normal office environments every 2-4 years, and a visual check at more frequent intervals. New appliances do not need PAT testing immediately but should be visually inspected.
What Does It Cover?
- Visual inspection of the plug, cable, and appliance body for damage, wear, and signs of overheating
- Earth continuity test (for Class I / earthed appliances) to verify the earth connection is intact and has suitably low resistance
- Insulation resistance test to check that the insulation between live parts and accessible metal parts is adequate
- Lead polarity check to ensure the plug is wired correctly
- Functional test to verify the appliance operates correctly and safely when switched on
- Leakage current test (for certain appliance types) to measure any current flowing to earth during normal operation
- Labelling of each appliance with a pass/fail sticker showing the test date and next test due date
- A PAT testing register or certificate listing all appliances tested, their serial numbers or asset tags, test results, and the next test date
How Long Is It Valid?
PAT testing validity depends on the appliance type and environment. The IET Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment recommends different intervals: IT equipment in a low-risk office environment can be tested every 4-5 years (with annual visual checks), while hand-held tools on a construction site should be tested every 3 months. Class I appliances in commercial environments are typically tested annually. The PAT test label shows the next test date, and the appliance should be re-tested before that date or if it shows signs of damage.
How Much Does It Cost?
£60–£150
Minimum call-out fee is typically £60-£150 for a small number of appliances. Bulk rates are £1-£3 per appliance for larger quantities (50+ items). A typical office with 20-30 appliances costs £80-£120. Larger commercial premises with 100+ appliances can negotiate rates of £1-£2 per item. Some electricians offer combined PAT testing and EICR packages at a reduced rate.
What Happens If You Don't Comply?
While there is no specific fine for not PAT testing, failure to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition is a breach of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. The HSE can issue improvement notices, prohibition notices, and prosecute offenders. Fines are unlimited and imprisonment of up to 2 years is possible for serious breaches. If an employee or member of the public is injured by a faulty appliance that was not maintained, the employer faces both criminal prosecution and civil liability for negligence. Insurance policies often require evidence of regular PAT testing.
How to Get One
Compile an inventory of all portable electrical appliances in your premises, including their locations and how frequently they are used.
Determine the appropriate testing frequency for each appliance category using the IET Code of Practice or HSE guidance, based on the appliance type and working environment.
Hire a competent PAT tester — this can be a qualified electrician, or someone who has completed a PAT testing training course (typically 1 day). There is no legal requirement for a specific qualification, but competence must be demonstrable.
The tester carries out a visual inspection and electrical tests on each appliance using a calibrated PAT testing device, recording the results for each item.
Appliances that pass are labelled with a pass sticker showing the test date and next test due date. Failed appliances are labelled as failed and should be taken out of service until repaired or replaced.
Receive a PAT testing register or certificate listing all appliances, their test results, and the next test dates. Keep this as evidence of compliance.
