What Appliances Should Be Pat Tested?

Electrical equipment is a common cause of accidental fires in workplaces. Fires can be devastating to businesses, with the loss of property and staff often resulting. By identifying hazards through PAT testing, businesses can ensure their equipment is safe to use and prevent potential accidents.

What Appliances Should Be Pat Tested?

Any item that connects to an electricity supply via a cable line and plug should be pat tested. This includes large appliances like washing machines and refrigerators but also smaller items such as hairdryers, kettles and extension leads.

The type of equipment and how frequently it is used will determine the frequency of testing. If an appliance is likely to be damaged by frequent use (or if damage is not reported), then it will need to be inspected and tested more frequently than an appliance that is rarely used. For example, class 1 appliances, which are regarded as the highest risk of danger, should be tested more frequently than class 2 or 3 appliances.

In addition to periodic PAT tests, regular visual inspections should be carried out on an ongoing basis. These should be conducted by users or designated personnel between formal testing intervals to identify any visible damage or signs of a hazard. This proactive approach can help to extend the lifespan of appliances and reduce the frequency of replacements.