PAT Testing FAQ
FAQ
What is PAT Testing?
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How often do we need PAT Testing?
This depends on where the items are and what useage they get. If for example you own a holiday let and every time a new person stays and uses the electrical appliances – in theory they should be tested after every use or before use for the next guests. This however is unrealistic so we recommend anything from 6-12 months for a visual test and 12 – 24 months for a PAT test. This may also depend on your insurance, the venue and current procedure in house.
My items are new - do they need testing?
Items come from the manufacturer fit for use. However, more and more, items are bought from online marketplaces, many of which are fake or untested (second hand goods are not always tested). we check the manufacturers labels and recommendations as appropriate and can often identify fake regulation markers once inspected.
How much do you charge?
We charge £50 for up to £10 items of £7.50 per individual item. If you require more items we can lower this price.
Will you price match? We saw an offer for £1 an item
No – we are a small local business. We care about what we do, and test thoroughly, create a full report and give you a test certificate. Often cheap testing means lower quality inspection. You get what you pay for at the end of the day!
What does it cost to PAT Test an entire office?
That depends on the amount of items – Call us to discuss a per item or per job rate – it all depends on the size of your office – realistically thorough testing takes an hour for 30 items
I am only a small shop can I just PAT Test one item?
Yes you can, but bear in mind that most offices and shops have a kitchen, something to play music on, many things plugged in and extension cables, so check to see how many other items you can test to make it cost effective
What equipment needs testing
Any appliance or part of an appliance that requires mains power to operate will need testing.
Do you get into trouble if you don't PAT Test equipment?
Although there is no legal requirement to PAT Test – Health & Safety law in the UK, business owners or self employed must take reasonable steps to ensure that all electrical equipment on-site is safe and properly maintained. So as to prevent danger (Injury, shocks, fire etc). If there is a fire caused by a faulty electrical appliance or there is an electrical accident and you can’t prove the equipment was safe to use – it is possible you will fall foul.
Regular PAT testing helps organisations to follow Health and Safety Regulations, such as The Electricity at Work Act (1989) and the UK Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (1998).