Portable Appliance Testing (PAT testing) plays an important role in workplace electrical safety, but many business owners are unsure what the PAT Testing Code of Practice actually means in real terms.
This guide explains what the code of practice covers, how it fits into UK health and safety responsibilities, and what businesses should be doing to manage electrical equipment safely.
Rather than focusing on technical jargon, we’ll break it down into practical guidance you can apply to everyday working environments.
What Is the PAT Testing Code of Practice?
The PAT Testing Code of Practice is guidance used across the UK to help businesses manage the safety of portable electrical equipment. It outlines recommended inspection methods, testing procedures, and record-keeping standards.
Importantly, PAT testing itself is not a legal requirement. However, UK health and safety law does require employers and duty holders to ensure electrical equipment is maintained in a safe condition.
The code of practice exists to support this responsibility by providing a recognised framework for checking appliances and reducing electrical risks.
In simple terms, it helps organisations demonstrate that they are taking reasonable steps to prevent electrical hazards such as shock, overheating, or fire.
How PAT Testing Fits Within UK Safety Law
Electrical safety in the workplace falls under wider legislation such as:
- The Health and Safety at Work Act
- The Electricity at Work Regulations
- Fire safety regulations for commercial premises
These laws place responsibility on employers, landlords, and those in control of premises to maintain safe electrical systems and equipment.
The PAT Testing Code of Practice supports these duties by offering a structured way to inspect and test portable appliances, providing documented evidence of ongoing safety management.
For many businesses, PAT testing is used as a practical method of demonstrating compliance during audits, insurance reviews, or fire risk assessments.
Who Is Responsible for Electrical Safety?
Responsibility usually sits with the “duty holder”. This may be:
- Business owners
- Employers
- Property managers
- Landlords
- Facilities managers
Whoever controls the premises and equipment must ensure appliances are safe to use.
This includes:
- arranging regular inspections
- keeping maintenance records
- addressing faults promptly
- ensuring unsafe equipment is removed from service
PAT testing forms just one part of this wider safety process.
What Does the Code of Practice Recommend?
The code of practice promotes a risk-based approach rather than fixed testing intervals.
Instead of testing everything at the same frequency, inspection schedules should consider:
- the type of equipment
- how often it is used
- the working environment
- who operates the appliances
For example, equipment in construction environments typically requires more frequent checks than appliances in low-risk office settings.
Most workplaces follow a combination of:
- regular visual inspections by responsible staff
- periodic professional PAT testing
- clear labelling and documentation
This layered approach helps identify issues early while maintaining formal compliance records.
What Happens During a PAT Test?
A typical PAT inspection involves two main stages.
First, a visual examination checks plugs, cables, casings, and connections for signs of damage, wear, or unsafe repairs.
Second, electrical test equipment is used where appropriate to measure factors such as insulation resistance and earth continuity.
Each appliance is labelled following inspection, and results are recorded in a test register. This documentation provides clear evidence that equipment has been checked and maintained.
If faults are found, the appliance is usually removed from service until repaired or replaced.
Why Visual Inspections Still Matter
Professional PAT testing is important, but visual checks remain one of the most effective safety measures.
Many faults are visible without specialised equipment, including:
- damaged cables
- cracked plugs
- loose connections
- missing earth pins
- signs of overheating
Encouraging staff to report damaged equipment and carrying out routine visual inspections helps prevent minor issues from becoming serious hazards.
Common Issues Found During PAT Inspections
Some of the most frequent problems identified during testing include:
- cable damage from trailing leads or furniture
- broken plugs or exposed wiring
- loose internal connections
- incorrect fuses
- equipment that has deteriorated due to age or environment
These issues often develop gradually and may go unnoticed without regular checks.
Addressing them early helps reduce fire risk, equipment failure, and potential injury.
Keeping Proper Records
The PAT Testing Code of Practice places strong emphasis on documentation.
Businesses should retain:
- inspection records
- test results
- service labels
- details of any repairs or replacements
Good record keeping supports compliance, simplifies audits, and provides reassurance to insurers and enforcing authorities.
Many organisations now use digital systems to manage records, but paper documentation is still acceptable as long as it is organised and accessible.
Professional Testing vs In-House Checks
While basic visual inspections can be carried out internally, formal PAT testing should be completed by a competent person using calibrated equipment.
Professional testing provides:
- accurate electrical measurements
- clear certification
- consistent labelling
- structured reporting
Combining internal checks with professional inspections creates a balanced approach that supports both day-to-day safety and long-term compliance.
Why Following the Code of Practice Matters
The PAT Testing Code of Practice is about more than ticking boxes.
Following it helps businesses:
- reduce electrical accidents
- minimise downtime from faulty equipment
- support fire risk management
- demonstrate responsible safety procedures
- protect employees, tenants, and visitors
Regular inspections also help organisations avoid unexpected failures and costly emergency replacements.
Key Takeaways for Businesses
If you’re responsible for electrical equipment, the essentials are:
- understand your duty of care
- carry out regular visual inspections
- arrange professional PAT testing when required
- keep clear records
- act quickly on any identified faults
These steps form the foundation of safe electrical management in commercial environments.
Final Thoughts
The Portable Appliance Testing Code of Practice provides a practical framework for maintaining electrical safety across UK workplaces.
While PAT testing itself isn’t legally mandatory, following recognised guidance helps businesses meet their wider health and safety responsibilities, reduce risk, and maintain confidence in their electrical systems.
By combining routine inspections, professional testing, and proper documentation, organisations can build a safer working environment and demonstrate responsible compliance over time.