Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is one of the most effective ways to ensure that electrical equipment is safe for use in workplaces, rental properties, and public environments. But one of the most common questions people ask is: “How often should appliances be PAT tested?”
The answer is: there is no single legal timeframe. Instead, the frequency depends on factors such as the type of appliance, how often it’s used, and the environment it operates in.
What the Law Says
UK law does not state a fixed interval for PAT testing. Instead, it requires that all electrical equipment is kept safe and well maintained. Regulations such as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 put the responsibility on employers, landlords, and duty holders to assess risks and take reasonable steps to prevent danger.
PAT testing is a practical way of demonstrating compliance — but the frequency should be based on a risk assessment.
General Guidelines for PAT Testing Frequency
While there’s no “one-size-fits-all,” here are some commonly accepted guidelines:
1. Offices, Shops, and Low-Risk Environments
- Computers, monitors, printers: Every 2–4 years.
- Portable equipment (kettles, vacuum cleaners, extension leads): Every 1–2 years.
2. Schools and Public Buildings
- IT equipment: Every 2–3 years.
- Other portable appliances (kettles, projectors, microwaves, etc.): Every 1–2 years.
3. Industrial and High-Risk Environments
- Power tools, extension reels, and heavy-use equipment: Every 6–12 months.
4. Construction Sites
- All 110V portable equipment: Every 3 months (due to harsh conditions and heavy use).
5. Rental Properties
- Landlords should test appliances: At the start of each tenancy and at least every 1–2 years thereafter.
Factors That Affect PAT Testing Frequency
- Type of equipment – Smaller portable items are more prone to damage than fixed appliances.
- Frequency of use – The more often an appliance is used, the more frequently it should be checked.
- Working environment – Dusty, damp, or high-traffic areas put equipment at greater risk.
- User responsibility – If equipment is handled by many people (e.g. in schools or rental homes), testing should be more frequent.
Is PAT Testing Always Necessary Every Year?
Not always. Many low-risk appliances in office environments can go several years between tests if they are well maintained and show no visible signs of wear. However, high-risk environments like construction sites will always require more frequent checks.
The best approach is a risk-based strategy — identify which items are most likely to cause harm and schedule testing accordingly.
Final Thoughts
How often you should carry out PAT testing depends on the risk, type of appliance, and the environment in which it is used. While some items only need checking every few years, others in heavy use or harsh conditions may need testing as often as every three months.
Ultimately, PAT testing is about safety, compliance, and peace of mind. By adopting a sensible testing schedule, you can protect your staff, tenants, and customers — while keeping your business or property compliant with UK regulations.