With the rise of hybrid working in recent years, employees are spending less time in the office, making it more important than ever to ensure that electrical appliances are in safe working condition.
One of the most effective ways to do this is through Electronic Equipment Testing (EET), formally known as Portable Appliance Testing (PAT). Whether you’re managing a small office or a high-risk construction site, regular testing is crucial for maintaining safety and compliance with the electricity at work regulations.
At Sussex Facilities Management, we offer expert portable appliance testing services, carried out by a qualified EET (PAT) tester. Our years of experience ensure that your workplace remains safe, compliant, and cost-effective.
But why is portable appliance testing so essential, and what benefits does it bring to your business?
1. Ensuring Electrical Safety at Work
The most obvious and crucial benefit of portable appliance testing is enhancing electrical safety in your workplace. Many electrical appliances, over time, develop wear and tear that can lead to dangerous conditions, such as exposed wiring or faulty plugs. Regular EET (PAT) testing helps identify and address these issues before they become hazardous.
At Sussex Facilities Management, our qualified EET (PAT) testers are trained to spot signs of damage during a formal visual inspection. We don’t just test the equipment; we inspect the entire appliance, plug, and lead to ensure nothing is missed. By using a competent person to check your equipment, you can reduce the risk of fires, electric shocks, and other serious incidents.
2. Compliance with Legal Requirements
Business owners are legally obligated to ensure their premises are safe for both employees and visitors. Under the safety at work act and the electricity at work regulations, businesses must ensure that their portable electrical equipment is safe to use. This is where portable appliance testing becomes essential. Regular testing of electrical appliances helps ensure your business complies with these laws and reduces the likelihood of accidents.
At Sussex Facilities Management, we understand the complexities of workplace compliance. Our qualified EET (PAT) testers are well-versed in all relevant regulations, including the work act 1974, ensuring that every test is carried out thoroughly. We’ll work with you to ensure that all your appliances meet the legally required standards.
3. Reducing Fire and Electrical Risks
Unfortunately, faulty electrical appliances are one of the leading causes of workplace fires in the UK. In fact, Of the 24,083 dwelling fires with accidental causes in the year ending March 2023, 29% were caused by ‘misuse of equipment or appliance’. Regular portable appliance testing can significantly reduce these risks, ensuring that appliances are safe to use.
Our team at Sussex Facilities Management conducts comprehensive inspections and testing to identify potential hazards, such as damaged cables, defective plugs, or poorly maintained equipment. After testing, we provide a pass or fail certification, so you can have peace of mind knowing which appliances are safe to use and which require attention. This helps to minimise risks in high-risk environments like factories or construction sites.
4. Cost Savings in the Long Term
While safety is the most critical factor, portable appliance testing can also save your business money. Regular testing helps to extend the life of your equipment by identifying issues early, allowing for repairs rather than replacements. A small repair today can save the cost of replacing expensive equipment down the line.
Sussex Facilities Management also ensures that your insurance remains valid. Many insurers require proof that EET (PAT) tests are being regularly carried out. If you neglect this requirement and an accident occurs, you could face unexpected costs and complications when making a claim.
5. Expert Guidance from Qualified EET (PAT) Testers
At Sussex Facilities Management, we pride ourselves on providing expert, personalised service. Our qualified EET (PAT) testers have completed comprehensive EET (PAT) testing courses, ensuring they are fully equipped to handle all types of electrical equipment. From low-risk office environments to more hazardous industries, we tailor our approach to meet the specific needs of your business.
We understand that not all equipment requires the same frequency of testing. For example, high-usage items in risk environments may need to be tested more regularly than those in low-use areas. Our testers will advise you on the type of equipment that needs testing and the recommended intervals to ensure compliance with the law. If you’re unsure about your legal obligations, we’re here to help, guiding you through the process and ensuring that your business remains compliant with the safety at work act.
6. Peace of Mind
One of the key benefits of working with Sussex Facilities Management is the peace of mind we offer. By using a qualified EET (PAT) tester, you can trust that all portable electrical equipment in your workplace is being properly inspected. Our team will notify you when your next service inspection and testing is due, so you never have to worry about missing a test.
Additionally, we offer guidance on user checks, where employees can be trained to spot signs of damage on appliances before using them. This proactive approach further reduces risk and ensures that your workplace remains a safe environment for everyone.
Contact Us
Don’t leave electrical safety to chance. Contact Sussex Facilities Management today to schedule your portable appliance testing and ensure your workplace remains a safe environment. We’re here to help, offering reliable, professional service that meets all your compliance needs.
Call us at 01444 812 171 or visit our website to learn more about our services.
And, if you might be interested in one of our other blogs. Why not read our comprehensive guide on EET (PAT) testing?
FAQs
1. What is Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)?
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is the process of inspecting and testing electrical equipment to ensure it is safe to use. A qualified PAT tester carries out these tests, identifying any faults or hazards to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with the electricity at work regulations.
2. Is Portable Appliance Testing legally required?
While there is no specific law mandating PAT testing, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require employers to ensure electrical equipment is maintained in a safe condition. Portable appliance testing helps meet this legal responsibility under the Work Act 1974.
3. How often should PAT tests be carried out?
The frequency of PAT testing depends on the type of equipment and its usage environment. High-risk equipment may need testing more frequently than low-risk office items. Our qualified EET (PAT) testers can advise on the best testing intervals for your business.
4. Who can carry out PAT tests?
Only a competent person, such as a qualified PAT tester, should perform portable appliance testing. They must have the proper training and equipment to inspect, test, and provide a pass or fail certification for each appliance.
5. What happens during a PAT test?
A PAT test includes a formal visual inspection for signs of damage, followed by electrical testing to ensure the appliance functions safely. Afterward, a pass or fail label is issued to indicate whether the appliance can continue to be used.
6. Can a user check the equipment before using it?
Yes, employees should perform a basic user check for obvious issues like damaged cables or plugs. However, this does not replace the need for regular service inspections and testing by a qualified PAT tester.