What is a Portable Appliance?
Portable Appliances are best described as any electrical item with a plug on. Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is a procedure you should regularly have undertaken to ensure your electrical items are safe to use.
All types of work settings have electrical appliances in them. It may be a care home, school, office, shop, kitchen, industrial unit or a hotel. When considering having your electrical items PAT tested you need to consider how often items are used, moved, who is exposed to them (staff, general public, children) and what environment they are in. All these factors affect how often you should have your appliances inspected.
Why do I need to get them tested?
It is a legal requirement under The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998. Every employer should ensure that work equipment is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.
In the event of any accidents or serious incidents involving the use of electrical equipment the Health and Safety Executive would want to see evidence that shows you have taken steps to ensure your electrical items have been maintained and inspected on a regular basis.
Do you want peace of mind that you are legally compliant? If so please contact us and we will be happy to discuss your requirements and provide you with a no obligation quote.