PAT testing also known as Portable Appliance Testing is the inspection of electrical appliances ensuring that they are safe to use.
As there is no legal requirement of how often PAT testing should be carried out, it is usually a question that some are unsure about. So, in order to have rough idea of how often you should have a PAT test done here is a rough guideline:
Offices, Shops and Hotels – Class 1 electrical appliances that are stationary and IT equipment should be PAT tested every 4 years. Moveable electrical equipment should be tested every 2 years and handheld equipment every year.
Schools – Class 1 equipment such as desktop computers and floor standing printers should be PAT tested every year and Class 2 electrical appliances like laptops and desktop printers should be tested every 4 years.
Construction – All 110V equipment that is used on construction sites should be tested every 3 months.
Industrial – industrial sites that have portable and handheld equipment should be tested every 6 months and stationary, IT and moveable equipment should be tested every year.
This is only a recommendation of how often PAT testing should be carried out, however you as an employer or landlord can decide how often you have your electrical appliances tested. When considering the frequency of PAT testing you should take into consideration factors such as;
– How often do you use your electrical appliances?
– What type of appliances do you have? If you have Class 1 appliances, these should have full PAT tests done as they are the most dangerous
Use this as a guide as there is no particular requirement of how often you should carry out PAT tests, but it is important you maintain the safety of your electrical appliances.
Get in touch with us today and we will be happy to arrange a PAT test for you. Call us on 0207 1188 445 or email us cs@pattestingassociation.co.uk We look forward to hearing from you.