Am I legally required to have my electrical equipment tested?
At present there is no specific legal requirement in the UK for portable appliances in either commercial or domestic use to to be tested.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Puts the duty of care upon both the eployer and the employee to ensure the sfety of all person using the work premises. This includes the self employed.
The Electricity at Work Regualtions 1989 – states as may be necessary to prevent danger, all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as reasonably practicable, such danger.
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 – Every employer shall make suitable and sufficient assessment of:
(a) the risks to the health and safety of all his employees to which they are exposed whilst at work and,
(b) the risks to ensure the health and safety of persons not in his employment arising out of or in connection with the conduct by him or his undertaking.
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 – states that every employer shall ensure that work equipment is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.
Why PAT testing is important for your business?
Legal Compliance: PAT testing helps demonstrate your commitment to electrical safety and can protect your business from legal liabilities in the event of an incident.
Risk Reduction: Faulty electrical equipment can lead to fires, injuries, and costly downtime. Regular PAT testing helps identify and address potential hazards before they become problems.
Cost Savings: Identifying and rectifying electrical faults early can prevent costly equipment repairs, replacements, or even business interruptions.
Employee Safety: A safe workplace is essential for employee morale and productivity. PAT testing contributes to a safer environment for your team.
What equipment needs to be tested?
Portable appliances (up to 18kg) fitted with a BS1363 (Standard UK 3 pin) or BS4343 (Commando style) plug that is connected to the mains power supply needs to be tested. This includes the following types of appliance:
IT Equipment: Computers, monitors, printers, scanners, etc
Office Equipment: Photocopiers, fax machines, shredders, kettles, toasters, microwaves, etc.
Power Tools: Drills, saws, sanders, etc.
Catering Equipment: Fridges, freezers, dishwashers, etc.
Portable Lighting: Lamps, spotlights, extension cords, etc.
Musical Equipment: Amplifiers, keyboards, guitars (if they use a mains adapter), etc.
Types of equipment to be tested
Class 1 (appliances connected to the earth wire)
Class 2 (appliances with double insulation and no earth wire)
Class II FE (appliances with a functional earth only)
Class III (appliances supplied from a separated extra-low voltage (SELV) power source)
How often does the equipment need to be tested?
The frequency of PAT testing for appliances depends on the type of equipment and its usage. The common practice is to conduct PAT testing annually, especially for high-use or portable appliances in common areas.
For appliances provided in rental properties, testing between tenancies or every 12 months is recommended.
New appliances should be tested within the first year.
Class I equipment should be tested every 48 months.
Movable equipment should be tested every 24 months.
Handheld equipment should be tested every 12 months.
How is the equipment tested?
Visual Inspection:
External Damage: Checking for cracks, burns, frayed cables, or other signs of physical damage.
Plugs and Sockets: Ensuring they are in good condition and free from defects.
Check correct BS1362 fuse is fitted for the appliance: Generally speaking a 3 amp fuse should be fitted for appliances rated less than 300 watts and a 13 amp fuse for appliances rated over 300 watts.
Labels and Markings: Verifying that the appliance has the necessary safety markings and labels.
Electrical Tests:
Once the equipment has passed the visual inspection, a specialized PAT test meter (Kewtech SmartPat) is used to perform electrical tests subject to the appliance class type.
Class 1:
Earth Continuity Test: Checking if there is a continuous electrical path through the appliance.
Earth Resistance Test: Measuring the resistance of the earth connection to ensure proper grounding.
Insulation Resistance Test: Assessing the quality of the insulation between the live and neutral conductors.
Class 2:
Insulation Resistance Test: Assessing the quality of the insulation between the live and neutral conductors.
Extension Cables:
Earth Continuity Test: Checking if there is a continuous electrical path through the appliance.
Earth Resistance Test: Measuring the resistance of the earth connection to ensure proper grounding.
Insulation Resistance Test: Assessing the quality of the insulation between the live and neutral conductors.
Insulation Resistance Test: Assessing the quality of the insulation between the live and neutral conductors.
Polarity Check: Verifying that the live and neutral connections are correct.
Labeling:
PAT Label: Applying a label to the appliance with the test date, pass/fail result, and other relevant information.
Record Keeping: An asset register of appliances tested with unique ID for each appliance will be supplied and a certificate recording number of appliances tested.