FAQs

A Portable Appliance Test (PAT) is a safety check carried out on electrical equipment to make sure it’s safe to use. It involves a combination of visual inspection (checking for obvious damage, wear, or faults) and electrical testing using specialist equipment. The goal is to find any problems that could lead to electric shock, fire, or equipment failure. PAT testing is an important part of maintaining workplace safety, and while it isn’t always a legal requirement on its own, it is one of the most reliable ways to meet your legal duty to keep electrical equipment safe under UK law.

If you’re responsible for a workplace, venue, rental property or public space, you’re what’s known as a “dutyholder.” That means you are legally responsible for making sure all electrical equipment under your control is safe to use.

According to the Electricity at Work Regulations (EAWR), all systems must be maintained to prevent danger — but the law doesn’t tell you how often. Instead, it puts the responsibility on you to judge the risk and take action before things go wrong.

That’s where regular electrical safety testing (like PAT testing) comes in. It’s the easiest and most reliable way to show that:

• You’ve taken reasonable steps to keep people safe

• You’ve complied with your legal duties

• You’ve got the records to prove it

“Look after your gear and your gear will look after you”

There’s no strict legal timeline — but if you rely on electrical gear for your work, you’re responsible for keeping it safe. That includes freelancers, sole traders, and small businesses.

Here are some general guidelines based on risk and typical use:

Freelance performers (musicians, DJs, comedians)

Annually (or before a major tour/event)

Sound, lighting & AV hire companies

Every 6–12 months (depending on use)

Mobile setups (pop-ups, stalls, event rigs)

Before each deployment or seasonally

Studios (home or commercial)

Every 1–2 years

Schools & public buildings

Annually (minimum)

Heavily used or rental gear

Every 3–6 months

If your equipment travels often, gets used by others, or is hired out, it should be checked more frequently because that’s where most wear and tear (and risk) occurs.