How to Prepare Your Office for a PAT Testing Visit

By adminPAT Testing

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is an essential part of keeping your office safe, compliant, and insured. But many businesses worry that a PAT testing visit will disrupt the working day. The good news is, with a little preparation, the process can be quick, smooth, and hassle-free.

Here’s how to get your office ready for a PAT testing visit.

1. Schedule Testing at the Right Time

Work with your PAT testing provider to choose a time that causes minimal disruption. Many engineers offer early morning, evening, or weekend appointments so your office can continue running without interruption.

2. Inform Staff in Advance

Let your team know when PAT testing will take place. Ask them to:

  • Save any open work before equipment is switched off
  • Leave devices like laptops, chargers, and power supplies accessible
  • Report any equipment they know is faulty or damaged

3. Make Appliances Accessible

PAT testers need access to plugs, sockets, and cables. To speed up the process:

  • Move furniture or storage that blocks access to power points
  • Untangle cables under desks where possible
  • Place portable items (like kettles or heaters) in easy-to-reach spots

4. Label or Group Appliances

If your office has multiple departments or floors, grouping appliances by area helps testing run efficiently. Labelling laptops, monitors, and extension leads with department names also simplifies record-keeping.

5. Unplug Unused or Redundant Equipment

There’s no need to test equipment that’s no longer in use. Clearing out old chargers, broken appliances, or unused devices reduces unnecessary testing and declutters the office.

6. Check Kitchen and Communal Areas

Don’t forget appliances outside the main workspace. Kettles, microwaves, fridges, and toasters in staff kitchens are high-use and high-risk, so make sure they’re clean and ready for inspection.

7. Plan for Sensitive Equipment

Some appliances—like servers or specialist IT equipment—can’t easily be powered down. Let your PAT testing provider know in advance so they can use alternative testing methods or schedule checks at appropriate times.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your office for PAT testing doesn’t have to be difficult. With some simple steps—informing staff, clearing access, and grouping appliances—you can ensure the visit is efficient, non-disruptive, and fully compliant.

👉 A little preparation today means safer equipment, smoother testing, and peace of mind for your whole team.