Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is the process of inspecting and testing electrical appliances to ensure they're safe to use. It involves a combination of visual checks and electrical tests using specialist PAT testing equipment. The aim is to identify faults — such as damaged cables, faulty earthing, or insulation breakdown — before they cause electric shocks or fires. Despite common misconception, PAT testing is not specifically required by a single piece of legislation. However, several regulations place a duty on employers and duty holders to ensure electrical equipment is safe, and PAT testing is the recognised way to demonstrate compliance.

Who Needs PAT Testing?

If you're responsible for a workplace, public venue, or rented property in Nottingham, PAT testing is relevant to you. This includes: • Employers: The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require employers to ensure all electrical equipment used by employees is maintained in a safe condition. • Landlords: While there's no specific legal requirement for PAT testing in domestic lets, the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords to ensure the property is safe. PAT testing appliances you provide (such as white goods) is best practice. • Schools and educational institutions: A duty of care to students and staff requires regular electrical safety checks. • Hotels, B&Bs, and hospitality venues: Fire safety regulations and duty of care obligations mean PAT testing is essential. • Offices, retail premises, and commercial buildings: Employers have a responsibility to maintain safe working conditions. • Construction sites: Portable tools used on site are subject to more frequent testing due to harsher operating conditions.

What Appliances Need Testing?

PAT testing covers portable and transportable electrical appliances. This includes any equipment that has a plug and connects to the mains supply. Common examples include: • Computers, monitors, and printers • Kettles, microwaves, and toasters • Desk lamps and portable heaters • Extension leads and multi-socket adapters • Phone and laptop chargers • Power tools and workshop equipment • Vending machines and catering equipment Fixed appliances (such as hand dryers, air conditioning units, and water heaters) may also be tested, but these are more often covered under an EICR or fixed equipment inspection.

How Often Should PAT Testing Be Done?

There is no fixed legal frequency for PAT testing. The IET Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment provides guidance based on the type of equipment and the environment in which it's used: • Office equipment (low risk): Visual check every 2 years, combined inspection and test every 4 years • Portable equipment in commercial kitchens, workshops (higher risk): Visual check every 6 months, combined inspection and test every 12 months • Construction site equipment (high risk): Visual check weekly, combined inspection and test every 3 months • IT equipment, chargers (double insulated, low risk): Visual check every 2 years, formal test every 4 years The key principle is that higher-risk environments and equipment used more roughly need more frequent testing. A sensible, risk-based approach is more important than sticking to arbitrary timescales.

How Much Does PAT Testing Cost in Nottingham?

PAT testing is usually priced per appliance, with discounts for larger quantities. Typical rates in Nottingham for 2026 are: • Up to 50 appliances: £1.50 – £2.50 per item • 50 – 200 appliances: £1.00 – £1.80 per item • 200+ appliances: £0.80 – £1.50 per item Some testers charge a minimum callout fee (typically £50 – £80) for smaller jobs. Always confirm pricing before booking.

PAT Testing for Businesses: Complete Guide