A PAT inspection is an important sector of health and safety policies and there are both legal and technical requirements. It has been stated by the Health & Safety Executive that 25% of all reported electrical accidents are a result of a faulty appliance; this is why it is crucial to complete a PAT inspection. The Electricity at Work Regulations apply legal responsibility on employers and employees in order to act accordingly with the provisions of the regulations and take reasonable steps to ensure no hazards result from the use of an electrical appliance, which is why it is extremely important to undergo a PAT inspection. A PAT inspection is required in order to maintain the health and safety at work.
The IEE Code of Practice highlights regulations on what type of inspection a certain appliance should undergo because the type of inspection carried out varies depending on the size and usage of an appliance. Equipment which weighs less than 18kg goes through a PAT inspection which ensures the appliance is able to move from one place to another whilst in use.
What is a PAT inspection? A PAT inspection consists of a visual inspection to check the appliance casing, plug damage and wiring and an electrical test. Depending whether or not the appliance has passed or failed a sticker will be stuck on each appliance signifying whether it has failed or passed the PAT inspection, along with a PAT inspection certificate.
Many companies may query about a PAT inspection. A PAT inspection is essential in regards to a company’s health & safety policy to ensure that staffs are not harmed or at danger by any electrical equipment within a business premises. A PAT inspection should be performed regularly to protect employees and customers against any accidents and liability within the workplace. A PAT inspection is scheduled by a business in accordance with guidelines stated in the IEE Code of Practice. In a place of work a PAT inspection is crucial and should be scheduled yearly in order to ensure maximum protection of employees and to protect the employer from being liable if there is faulty equipment which may cause injury.
There is controversy whether a PAT inspection must be carried out by law or not, however, it is not stated by law that a PAT inspection is vital, unless in a work place where all electricity must be safe. Government guidelines state that a PAT inspection is the best way to guarantee electrical protection. If an accident were to occur due to a faulty unmaintained appliance the company or could be fined or even be imprisoned.
Additionally, landlords query about a PAT inspection because they are obliged to complete a PAT inspection on a regular basis, especially if they are renting their property through an estate agent. A landlord must complete a PAT inspection in order to ensure electrical equipment is safe.
For factories, schools and other places of education a PAT inspection may prevent fires and injuries, and a PAT inspection ensures this safety.
