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What needs PAT Testing?
All portable appliances with a mains plug need testing. This includes:
· Computers, monitors and peripherals requiring
mains power
· Audio and telephone equipment requiring mains power
· Kettles, microwave ovens and other kitchen appliances
· Vacuum cleaners
· Extension leads
· Chargers etc.
PAT Testing for business
As
a business, you have a duty to prevent any harm coming to your employees and customers. Portable appliance testing is one
of the ways that you can comply with this obligation. Failure to implement a programme of regular appliance testing can also
have insurance implications.
Electricity at work regulations 1989
Regulation 4 (2): 'As may be necessary to prevent
danger all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent so far as is reasonably practicable such danger.'
To meet the
requirements of the 1989 Electricity at work regulations, it is widely regarded to be necessary to implement a programme of
planned inspection and testing of portable appliances.
In the Health & Safety At Work Act 1974, all employers have
a legal duty to provide safe plant and equipment and every employer must ensure that equipment must be maintained in an efficient
state, in efficient working order and good repair.
PAT Testing for landlords
As a landlord, you
have a duty to prevent harm from coming to your tenants from electrical appliances that you supply. Portable appliance testing
is widely regarded as being the best way of complying with this obligation. Without a programme of planned appliance testing
and maintenance, you could be legally liable for damages resulting from your untested appliances. This covers all portable
appliances that you supply, including fridges and freezers, microwave ovens, televisions and vacuum cleaners.
The Electrical
Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994, mandatory since 1 January 1997, states that all electrical appliances supplied with let
accommodation must be safe. This applies to both new and second-hand appliances and covers all electrical items supplied for
the intended use of the Tenant. The only sure method of ensuring that these appliances are safe is to have them tested by
a trained competent person using the appropriate calibrated portable appliance testing equipment.
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