Commercial property owners and landlords often find that the mountains of paperwork, compliance checks and safety guidelines mean things are occasionally forgotten. PAT testing may be just one item to slip the mind, but it shouldn’t. What is it, though? Why is it important, and is it needed?
PAT testing is the inspection and occasional testing of portable electrical items to assess that they function safely and show no signs of wear or damage that could pose a safety risk to the user.
There is often some confusion about whether PAT tests are legally required, and it may surprise many to learn that they aren’t.
So, in this blog, we dive a little deeper to explain what PAT testing is, what it involves, and whether it’s required at your commercial or residential property.
What is a PAT test?
A PAT or Portable Appliance Test is an examination of a portable electrical appliance to ensure it is safe to use. The test is initially conducted visually, with an electrician checking for signs of damage to the plug, frayed wiring or other indicators that the item may be unsafe. The item is then tested with a PAT test machine for insulation resistance and earth continuity, among other things.
You can think of a PAT test as containing three core steps:
- Inspecting the items for visible signs of damage
- Testing the items through the PAT test machine
- Recording the results
What items need PAT testing?
Whilst the name of the test indicates items are portable, PAT testing also relates to items that are rarely, if ever, moved. Essentially, if the item has a plug and can be moved and plugged in elsewhere, it requires a PAT test. This means that items that are:
- Portable
- Movable
- Hand-held
- Stationary but plugged in
All require PAT testing.
Below is a list of some items in your tenanted or commercial property that will require testing.
- Kettle
- Portable heaters
- Plug-in cookers
- Fridges
- Microwaves
- Fans
- Computers
- TVs
- Vacuum cleaners
- Extension leads
- Battery charging equipment
The list isn’t exhaustive. Generally speaking, if it has a plug and isn’t hard-wired, it needs to be tested.
When should PAT testing be done?
For landlords, PAT testing should be completed before a new tenancy begins and periodically during it. The frequency of testing varies depending on the item, how often it’s used and its general condition. For example, if you supplied your tenants with a microwave that is likely used every day, it’ll need to be tested more often than a lawnmower that may only be used a few times a year.
In a commercial property or industrial setting, it is much the same. Items used often will require more frequent testing, whereas rarely used items can be tested less frequently, with a visual inspection often sufficient.
It is recommended that smaller items be tested every two years, and larger items every five years; however, you can test them annually if you prefer. There is no set rule, though, and the frequency of PAT testing should really be determined by:
- The environment
- Appliance type
- Usage
- Risk
New items do NOT require PAT testing when added to a property; however, HSE recommendations are that new items be inspected before being deemed safe to use.
Is PAT testing a legal requirement?
PAT testing is not a legal requirement, which may come as a surprise. Instead, HSE and landlord guidance state that electrical equipment that may cause injury must be safe to use. Whilst this doesn’t state PAT testing is mandatory, the test is generally seen as a good way to identify problems and ensure items are safe to use.
Operators of commercial and industrial properties must comply with many regulations, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. These state that electrical equipment must be maintained to prevent danger.
By completing regular PAT testing, compliance with these regulations can be demonstrated.
On occasion, landlords may find that PAT Testing IS a legal requirement. Some property licences state PAT testing should be conducted periodically, and in specific areas, local authorities may require all rental properties to have PAT testing carried out. You may even find that the agent you use to let your property requires PAT testing before they will list the home for rent.
Can I do PAT testing myself?
PAT tests do not have to be conducted by a trained electrician, but it is advised. In fact, guidelines state that a competent person can complete PAT testing. A competent person, in this case, would be someone who can understand the wiring of a plug, for example.
Landlords and commercial property owners can conduct PAT inspections themselves; however, it will not provide complete assurance that the tested items are as safe as they should be. This is largely because items that are “self-assessed” are only inspected, not tested.
With a qualified electrician, you have access to someone equipped with the knowledge and experience, as well as the PAT test machine that will highlight much more than any visual inspection can.
Additionally, having a trained specialist conduct your PAT test provides you with the appropriate paperwork and certification upon completion, therefore enhancing your compliance and giving tenants or staff added peace of mind.
What happens if items fail a PAT test?
If any item fails a PAT test, it should be immediately removed from use. Ideally, it should be replaced, but it can be repaired if possible. At no time, though, should the item be left for tenants or employees to use.
Is a PAT test the same as an EICR?
No, and the difference between the two must be understood. An EICR, also known as the Electrical Installation Condition Report, is for checks on fixed installations, and is a legal requirement for landlords. It can only be conducted by a suitable professional and ensures the safety of fixed wiring and electrical installations. Once completed, the certificate is valid for five years, but sometimes less, after which a new EICR must be commissioned.
At London Property Services, our skilled team of electricians is on hand to provide PAT testing in London for landlords and commercial property owners. Contact us today to book yours or learn more about the electrician services in London we provide that could benefit your property.
