Source:intersafe.co.uk

Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement in the UK?

First of all, let’s start by explaining what is PAT testing. Do you know about it? It stands for portable appliance testing. It is a common practice. It refers to inspecting all electrical appliances as a safety precaution. It is done through a series of serious tests and visual inspections. As you probably know, and we agree with you, safety comes first. If you want to know that your appliances are in top condition and operating at max levels you need to have them PAT tested.

Those who benefit the most from this testing are numerous landlords. They want to be safe and secure, and to provide the same for their tenants. The best way to do this is to have your appliances operating at a desirable level. If they’re serious about achieving what we mentioned they’ll have a PAT test conducted for every piece of equipment they have on their premises. Of course, this test is not only reserved for landlords. Anyone can have it if they’re unsure about the safety of their appliances. Some people take this matter lightly, but luckily, they’re in majority.

Furthermore, there is a question of the legality of these tests. In some countries, it is directed by law that you need to have your appliances tested. This brings us to the core of our article. Most of our readers wanted to know the same thing: is PAT testing a legal requirement in the UK? Considering the population the island has, and that we still have many people wanting to go and live and work there this is quite a good question. If you want to know the answer please continue reading this article, as we’ll give our best to provide you with an adequate answer.

Is It Legally Needed?

source:totalsafeuk.com

This is where things get a little bit complicated. It all depends on how you’ll interpret the law. It is nowhere clearly said under the direct words that PAT testing is needed by law. But, you will learn that it is necessary. You only need to dig a little deeper through equipment regulations and various legislative acts. According to law, all appliances need to be in a condition. this is what guarantees that they work properly and are safe to be used by humans. So, there’s no strict law. But, it is quite legitimate in the UK to apply a PAT test.

Most people are not aware of the legal ties that this test has. The reason is simple – there is a lot of street talk about it. The so-called urban legends confuse people. The law and PAT testing go well hand in hand. Because of this, it is often hard to tell what’s the truth without looking into it on your own. There’s no testing law that’s familiar to landlords or business owners. Also, there’s no direct correlation. But, as we said, if you dig a little bit deeper more will be revealed to you. Many acts and legislations speak in favor of this testing.

What Acts and Regulations are These?

Source:cpdonline.co.uk

As we said, there are a few that should show you how you should take your business or premises. The first one is of course the initial act. It’s the 1974 health and safety act at work. It’s an old act one. But it clearly says that it’s the business owner’s responsibility – safety. So, if your line of work includes any electric appliances, used by either the workers or the customers they need to be up to the standards. Also, those employed need to take care of the safety of everyone and anyone on the premises of work.

The first regulation tied to the PAT test is the 1989 electricity at work regulation. This one is about all the tests conducted on electric equipment. It clearly says what employers and business owners are obligated to do. It is a very detailed regulation. If you are having any doubts about our article as your source of knowledge related to this subject you’re free to check it out. It covers everything from designs and maintenance to control and storage.

Once you have the two paragraphs from above behind you move forward. Proceed toward the 1998 provision and use of work equipment act. these set of rules require every electricity and other equipment to be used in a certain, safe, way. They need to be in the condition that enables it to be put to work immediately. What it requires is that all the equipment is handled in a way that will keep it always efficient. They need to be always repaired at the first sign of notice.

Last but not least is the 1999 health and safety management of work regulations. This act states that safety of every employee needs to be leveled. The hazards they’re exposed to are the starting point. The safety we’re talking about here needs to be assured by the employer. Its application needs not only to be administered to the people who work for a company but to everyone who is involved with it, either as a partner or a customer.

So, as evidenced by everything from above, it is the duty of the business owner or anyone who vacates a space to ensure the safety of the ones who will be using it. Yes, no law clearly states that you need to have your appliances PAT tested. This is where the connection between PAT testing and the law becomes quite clear. When you connect all of these acts and regulations you understand that it’s more than necessary.

What Appliances to Test?

The best answer would be all of them. But, not to go too far in this department you need to know where to look first and foremost. The first one that needs your attention is the fixed appliances. Once you’re done with those, if you have them on your premises, you need to move to the stationary appliances. If you think that the work is done here, you’re mistaken. You also have IT appliances left, together with handled and portable, and moveable appliances.