Why should we PAT Test?
All portable electrical equipment is subject to damages during use, vandalism & transportation. Damage could render the equipment dangerous to the user. Without a regular program of testing and inspection, you have not taken reasonable steps to ensure the safety of users.
Inspections & tests should be carried at reasonable and regular intervals, considering the amount of use each piece of equipment is undertaking.
There are no legal requirements to PAT test however the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 requires, every employer to ensure that work equipment is suitable for the purpose for which it is provided, only used in the place and under the provisions for which it is provided. It also requires every employer to ensure work equipment be efficiently maintained and kept fit and suitable for its intended purpose.
It must not be allowed to deteriorate in function or performance to such a level that it puts people at risk. This means that regular, routine and planned maintenance regimes must be considered if hazardous problems can arise.
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 states:
Every employer shall ensure that work equipment is so constructed or adapted as to be suitable for the purpose for which it is used or provided. (Regulation 4(1)
Every employer shall ensure that work equipment is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair. (Regulation 5) Further info on this can be found at: www.opsi.gov.uk
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 states:
As may be necessary to prevent danger, all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as reasonably practicable, such danger. (Regulation 4(2))
It shall be the duty of every employer and self-employed person to comply with the provisions of these Regulations in so far as they relate to matters which are within his control. (Regulation 3) Further info on this can be found at: www.opsi.gov.uk
