PAT testing
Portable appliance testing — the inspection and electrical testing of portable electrical equipment to verify it is safe to use. Required under PUWER 1998 as part of an employers duty to maintain work equipment in a safe condition. The frequency of testing depends on the type of equipment and its environment.
Also known as
By jurisdiction
UK HSE
“portable appliance testing”PATExact equivalentThe Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) regulation 6 requires employers to ensure that work equipment is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 regulation 4 requires that electrical systems are maintained to prevent danger. PAT testing is one means of satisfying this duty. HSE guidance (HSG107 and IET Code of Practice) advises on appropriate testing frequencies.
Irish HSA
“portable appliance testing”Close equivalentThe General Application Regulations 2007 (Part 2, Chapter 1 — work equipment) and the electrical safety provisions of Part 3 require employers to maintain portable electrical equipment in a safe condition. Periodic testing by a competent person is required to satisfy these duties.
US OSHA
“electrical equipment inspection”Close equivalentOSHA 29 CFR 1910.303(b)(1) requires that electrical equipment shall be free from recognised hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm. Electrical equipment must be inspected before use and maintained in a safe condition. There is no OSHA requirement specifically called portable appliance testing; the duty arises from general electrical standards.
Practitioner note: Not a legal term — the duty is to maintain electrical equipment safely (PUWER reg 6, EAWR reg 4). PAT testing is one means of meeting that duty. There is no specified frequency in statute; risk assessment determines the appropriate interval.