Advice Section
Legal Requirements For PAT Testing
The relevant legislation is the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, the Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998.
Why Should Landlord's Bother With Electrical Safety Checks?
In essence, these regulations impose a duty on landlords to ensure that all electrical equipment supplied by them is safe for use by the tenant.
Frequency Of PAT Testing
There are no absolute rules regarding how often an item of electrical equipment should be tested. HSE Guidance Notes advise "regular testing" and this is generally interpreted as a requirement for annual testing.
PAT Testing Records
The most effective method for a dutyholder to prove to a Court in the event of an accident that they "exercised all due diligence" etc, is to produce proper records of the measures taken to prevent the accident.
PAT Testing Process
The aim here is to explain the fundamental reasons for the tests performed and to offer practical guidance on test procedures. Such guidance can only be given in general terms and practical training is recommended in order to address specific problems.
Identifying Equipment That Needs A PAT Test
Several types of electrical equipment are defined in the IEE Code of Practice for In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment. Basically, anything with a normal British 3-pronged plug attached to it, needs to be tested.
