If you are a business owner in the UK, there are various electrical safety regulations and laws you must adhere to in order to keep your business up and running. One of these laws is the requirement for regular PAT testing of all electrical appliances in your office or commercial space. PAT testing, or Portable Appliance Testing, is a thorough process by which electrical appliances are tested for safety.
There are many benefits to having your appliances tested at regular intervals, the most obvious being the safety of your employees and customers. In addition, if you have insurance on your business or individual appliances, you may be required to have proof of regular PAT testing in order to maintain your coverage and make a successful claim.
How PAT Testing Works
PAT testing is typically performed by a qualified electrician who will come to your business and test all of the electrical appliances on site, after which a certificate of compliance will be issued. As part of the inspection and testing process, the electrician will look for any signs of wear and tear or damage that could pose a safety hazard during use. She or he will also test the appliance to ensure it is operating within the correct voltage range for its class.
If any problems are found or suspected, the electrician will make note of it and advise you on what needs to be done to fix the issue. In some cases, the appliance may need to be replaced, while at other times, it may just need to be repaired or have a new part installed.
How Often Should I Have My Appliances PAT Tested?
The frequency of PAT testing depends on the type of appliance and how often it is used. For example, an appliance that is used daily will need to be tested more often than one that is only used occasionally.
It is generally recommended that businesses have their appliances PAT tested at least once per year. However, some businesses opt for more frequent testing, especially if they have a lot of electrical equipment or if their equipment is subject to heavy use.
PAT Testing Services From Lowe & Oliver
At Lowe & Oliver, we understand the importance of regular PAT testing for businesses in the UK. We offer comprehensive PAT testing services that can be tailored to the specific needs of your business. Our team of qualified electrical engineers will come to your office or commercial space and test all of your electrical appliances quickly and efficiently, providing assurance of safety and giving suggestions for improvements where necessary.
We understand that every business is different, which is why we offer flexible scheduling options for our PAT testing services. We can work around your busy schedule so that we don't disrupt your day-to-day operations and impact your customers and employees.
To find out more or to arrange PAT testing for your appliances, please call today.
Image Source: Canva