The Basics of Portable Appliance Testing

In order for your premises to adhere to the Electricity at Work Regulations Act (1989), you will need to make sure that all of your portable appliances are safe and in full working order.

To do this, all portable appliances in your premises must undergo regular testing. These tests carry with them a number of benefits to you and your business, and this article will look at some of the key reasons to make sure you carry out regular testing.

Compulsory safety checks

PAT testing is designed to ensure all portable appliances within a building or premises are safe to use. In most cases, visual checks are often enough to identify any problems with the appliance, but there are also instances where specialist testing equipment is required to investigate further. While PAT testing is not a legal requirement in itself, it is compulsory that employers ensure their equipment is maintained safely. There are differing guidelines for different kinds of businesses, with the recommended frequency of checks being higher for some, such as construction sites and lower for environments like hotels and offices.

Anything that is plugged into a socket needs to be tested, regardless of how often it is used or what it is used for. Some of the more simple checks can be carried out by the premises owner or staff after receiving basic training. By having staff who are trained in the basic examination of these appliances, checks can be carried out quickly and regularly, saving the more complex tests for professionals with access to the appropriate specialist equipment.

Benefits

One of the more obvious benefits of PAT testing is the safety of you, your premises and your staff. By carrying out these tests, you will be able to determine which appliances are working as they should be, which ones need repair and which ones need to be replaced. Regular testing will help identify any potential issues early on, which can save lives, as well as time and money. Committing to regular PAT testing also sits well with insurance companies. If they know that your premises are as safe as possible and all your appliances are checked and tested regularly, you may well see a discount in your insurance premiums.

Here at City Fire Protection, we are extremely proud to be one of the leading companies in the supply, installation and maintenance of fire safety equipment, serving clients nationwide from our offices in London, Essex and Birmingham. We have a wealth of knowledge and experience in our field and our vast selection of fire safety equipment ensures we have exactly what you need. Our highly skilled team can install your equipment safely, professionally and efficiently, ensuring your premises meets both your requirements and all relevant legal guidelines. For more information about our PAT testing services, or anything else we can offer you, get in touch with us today.