Schools are busy environments filled with electrical equipment — from computers, printers, and projectors to kitchen appliances, lab tools, and cleaning machines. With hundreds of students and staff using these devices daily, electrical safety is critical.
That’s why PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is an essential service for all schools, ensuring compliance with safety laws and protecting everyone on site from electrical hazards.
What Is PAT Testing?
PAT testing is the process of inspecting and testing electrical appliances to make sure they are safe to use. A qualified engineer performs both a visual inspection and an electrical test, checking for signs of wear, damage, or internal faults.
After testing, each item receives a pass/fail label and is logged in a detailed report — providing clear evidence that your school complies with UK electrical safety standards and the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989).
Why PAT Testing Is So Important for Schools
1. Protecting Pupils and Staff
Electrical appliances are used throughout the school — in classrooms, IT suites, science labs, staff rooms, and kitchens. PAT testing ensures that every item is safe, reducing the risk of electric shocks, fires, and injuries.
2. Legal Compliance and Duty of Care
Schools have a legal responsibility to maintain safe equipment under the Electricity at Work Regulations. PAT testing provides documented proof of compliance, showing that your school takes electrical safety seriously.
3. Supporting Ofsted and Local Authority Inspections
Health and safety play a big role in school inspections. Having up-to-date PAT testing records demonstrates that your school meets safety obligations and maintains a safe environment for teaching and learning.
4. Preventing Equipment Damage and Downtime
Electrical faults can disrupt lessons and operations. PAT testing identifies potential issues before they cause equipment failure, helping keep classrooms and administrative areas running smoothly.
5. Protecting Your School’s Reputation
Parents and staff trust schools to provide a safe environment. Regular PAT testing reinforces that trust and ensures that your school remains compliant, efficient, and responsible.
How Often Should Schools Have PAT Testing Done?
For most schools, annual PAT testing is the standard recommendation.
However, high-use areas such as science labs, kitchens, and workshops may require more frequent testing — every six months — due to the heavier use of electrical equipment.
Why Choose PAT Checked for PAT Testing for Schools?
At PAT Checked, we specialise in PAT testing for schools, academies, and educational institutions across the UK. Our qualified engineers understand the needs of educational environments and work efficiently to minimise disruption to teaching.
We offer:
- Flexible scheduling (including after school hours or weekends)
- DBS-checked engineers for complete safety assurance
- Comprehensive reports and compliance certificates
- Affordable rates for single schools and multi-site academies
We make electrical safety simple, reliable, and fully compliant — so you can focus on education while we handle the testing.
👉 Book your school PAT test today or contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.