PAT Testing Legal Responsibilities
either you are the business owner, duty holder, manger or equipment user you all have responsibilities to make sure your equipment is safe.
Do i have to be PAT/EET tested ?
Although PAT testing is not a legal requirement (some insurance may ask for this), all workplaces and other regulated surroundings are required to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition. All must legally ensure the health and safety of employees, tenants and the wider public.
Because of this, any place that has any electrical equipment could benefit from PAT testing. Even if you are a small business that only uses basic electrical equipment such as lamps, laptops, and a kettle, you should still ensure the safety and maintenance of these items.
Current legislation relating to the maintenance of electrical equipment in the workplace and other surroundings includes:
The Health and Safety at work Act 1974
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
The Housing Act 2004 (England and Wales)
The Housing (Scotland) Act 2006
The Housing (Wales) Act 2014
The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016
The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008
The Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982
The Plugs and Sockets Etc. (Safety) Regulations 1994
PAT testing is the most efficient way of ensuring that a business is adhering to legislation. Indeed, it is the most favored electrical testing system in the UK. If legislation regarding electrical safety is not adhered to, businesses in the UK can face an unlimited fine or even imprisonment.
Testing electrical equipment can be relatively quick. Each piece of equipment will be rated with either a pass or a fail. If the equipment passes the test, it will be labelled with a safety sticker that includes information such as when the testing was completed.
Although PAT testing labels and documented records of PAT testing are not legal requirements, it is highly recommended that businesses implement these measures. It helps to ensure the effectiveness of the electrical equipment safety scheme and ensures maintenance schedules are adhered to. Establishing a clear record of equipment maintenance always demonstrates compliance with electric safety legislation.
