Norcroft Energy

Tel: 01226 763127 | Contact Us

What is Portable Appliance Testing?

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is a routine check of electrical appliances to ensure they are safe to use. It is a legal requirement for both landlords and businesses and an important part of any health and safety policy.

Regular inspection of electrical appliances in all work situations is a requirement of UK Health & Safety legislation. It is your legal obligation to take reasonable steps to ensure that no danger results from the use of portable electrical appliances. Regular PAT testing plays an essential part in documenting this duty of care.

Electrical testing should be performed by a person who is competent in the safe use of the test equipment and who knows how to interpret the test results obtained. This person must be capable of inspecting the equipment and, where necessary, dismantling it to check the cable connections.

The frequency of inspection and testing required depends on the type of appliance, the nature of its use and the environment in which it is used – all of which will impact on the level of risk to the appliance becoming faulty.

Norcroft Energy can carry out this work on your behalf, labelling the device as tested and keeping an accurate record of all equipment tested.

Need some help? Get in touch

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Frequently Asked Questions

How frequently do I need to test my electrical appliances?

The frequency depends on the type of appliance and the environment in which it is used. For example, a power tool used on a construction site should be examined more frequently than a lamp in a hotel bedroom.

Do I need to test new equipment?

New equipment should be supplied in a safe condition and not require a PAT test. However, it is advisable to do a visual check to ensure the item is not damaged.

For more information or to arrange PAT testing at your premises, call us on 01226 763127.