Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)

Portable appliance testing (commonly known as PAT or PAT Inspection or PAT Testing) is a process by which electrical appliances are routinely checked for safety.

PAT testing reduces the risk of electrical shock by detecting potential safety problems with electrical appliances before they occur.

PAT Testing is regulated by the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulation’s S.I NO.299 of 2007. It is a requirement under Irish law that all businesses carry out PAT Testing on all portable appliances. This is to ensure the safety and welfare of both employees and customers.

This obligaton rests solely with the employer, which means that the employers are held 100% responsible for the safe maintenance of portable appliances (anything with a plug- kettle, PCs, laptops, toasters, servers etc.)

All Irish Employers must:

• maintain portable equipment in a way that is safe and fit for use
• inspect portable equipment periodically if supplied by a voltage exceeding 125 volts (but not exceeding 1000 volts)
• inspect portable equipment periodically if exposed to conditions causing deterioration liable to result in danger
• ensure that a competent person carries out and certifies that the appliances are fit for use
• ensure that FAILED assets are put out of use until it made safe