Electrical Equipment Testing (EET) formally known as Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) ensures that electrical equipment is safe to use, and is an essential part of fire safety in every workplace. Faulty or poorly maintained electrical appliances remain a leading cause of accidental fires in commercial and public buildings.
Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, employers and duty holders are legally required to ensure that all electrical systems are properly maintained to reduce hazards. Regular inspection and testing is one recognised method of demonstrating compliance with these duties.
All businesses should have suitable arrangements in place to:
- Inspect and maintain electrical equipment to ensure it is safe to use.
- Undertake formal inspection and testing at suitable intervals, determined by a risk assessment.
- Ensure testing is carried out by a competent person, defined as someone with the necessary training, experience, and knowledge to recognise electrical hazards and determine whether equipment is safe for continued use.
- Keep records or certificates showing that testing and maintenance have been completed and are up to date.
To reduce the risk of fire and injury, here are some tips and tricks on good practice for Electrical Fire Safety:
- Check all electrical appliances regularly for obvious signs of damage such as frayed cables, cracked plugs, scorch marks, or loose connections.
- Do not use any equipment that is damaged, overheats, or trips the electrical supply.
- Avoid overloading sockets or ‘daisy-chaining’ multiple extension leads. Most extension leads are rated at 13 amps, but some are rated lower; exceeding their rating can cause overheating and fire.
- Ensure any personal or portable heaters brought into the workplace are inspected and tested before use.
- Update your fire risk assessment to reflect any electrical hazards or portable equipment used on site.
Why does Electrical safety matter?
Electricity is the second largest cause of accidental fires in the UK. Regular inspection, maintenance, and testing of electrical equipment significantly reduce the likelihood of fire and helps ensure compliance with workplace safety law.
By maintaining electrical systems properly, businesses not only meet their legal duties but also protect lives, property, and business continuity.
https://www.hse.gov.uk/electricity/index.htm PAT (Portable appliance testing) – HSE’s answers to popular questions