The truth about PAT Testing
A lot of business owners are under the impression that PAT Testing has to be carried out annually. It does not. However, many companies do have it done regularly. Why? There are two main reasons.
The first is to make sure that employees do not get injured by poorly maintained electrical appliances. The second reason is that PAT testing is often part of a company’s ISO 9000 health and safety protocol.
What the Electricity at Work Regulations say about PAT Testing
The initials “PAT” stand for Portable Appliance Testing. According to the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, any electrical equipment on company premises that can potentially cause injury must be maintained in a safe manner. But the Regulations don’t dictate exactly what needs to be done, who needs to do it, or how often.
Neither the inspection nor the testing of such appliances is a legal requirement. Furthermore, no timeframe is specified. That being said. When businesses are applying for ISO 9000 approval, or they are undergoing an ISO 000 audit, PAT testing is usually something that is specified as part of a good health and safety regime. It is also something that ought to be regularly monitored, and a written report kept.
It is not just companies that should observe PAT Testing protocols, but landlords too. They have a duty of care to tenants to ensure that any portable electrical appliances they supply are safe and fit for purpose.
Who can carry out PAT Testing?
As far as PAT testing legislation is concerned, any person who is deemed to be competent and who has knowledge of checking and testing procedures for health and safety purposes can carry out this function. Anyone who has a general electrical understanding or who is experienced in electrical work may be deemed competent.
The last thing any employer or landlord wants to happen, however, is for anyone to be electrocuted and injured by faulty appliances and for any blame to be levelled at them. That is why the majority of health and safety-conscious businesses not only have all their appliances checked but employ professionals like Brooktech Maintenance Services to do the work.
Play it safe
If you would like PAT Testing to be carried out, your appliances properly labelled and regularly checked to ensure you comply with ISO 000 best practice, please contact us today to find out more.
