Chiropodists rely on a variety of electrical equipment to provide safe and effective foot care. From treatment chairs, sterilizers, and drills to computers, monitors, and small clinic appliances, faulty equipment can disrupt treatments, create hazards, or compromise patient safety.
PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) ensures all devices in your clinic are safe, compliant, and reliable, allowing chiropodists to focus on patient care with confidence.
What Is PAT Testing?
PAT testing is the process of checking electrical appliances to ensure they are safe to use. It involves:
- Visual inspection – checking for frayed cables, damaged plugs, or signs of wear.
- Electrical testing – using specialist tools to detect hidden faults that could cause shocks, fires, or equipment failure.
Each item is labelled pass/fail, and a certificate is issued. For chiropodists, PAT testing is crucial for maintaining a safe, professional clinic environment.
Why PAT Testing Matters for Chiropodists
Even minor electrical faults can disrupt treatments or pose serious hazards. PAT testing helps by:
- Protecting patients and staff – preventing electric shocks, fires, or accidents in the clinic.
- Ensuring uninterrupted treatments – avoiding failures with treatment chairs, drills, or sterilizers.
- Maintaining professional credibility – safe and reliable equipment reflects high standards of care.
- Supporting regulatory and insurance compliance – many healthcare providers and insurers require PAT-tested devices.
- Extending equipment lifespan – early detection of faults prevents damage to expensive clinic equipment.
What Equipment Should Chiropodists Get PAT Tested?
Any electrical device used in the clinic should be included:
- Treatment chairs, drills, and sterilizers
- Laptops, desktops, and monitors
- Printers and small office appliances
- Extension leads, power strips, and adapters
- Small appliances such as lamps, fans, or heaters
Even portable or occasional-use devices should be included to prevent hazards.
How Often Should PAT Testing Be Done?
Frequency depends on usage:
- Annually – for frequently used, portable equipment.
- Every 2 years – for stationary or low-use devices.
- After visible damage or repairs – always retest before use.
Many chiropodists schedule PAT testing annually or before audits to ensure all equipment is safe and operational.
Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement?
PAT testing is not explicitly required by law, but UK and European regulations mandate that all electrical equipment used at work must be safe. PAT testing is the recognised method to demonstrate compliance and is often requested by insurers, regulatory bodies, or clinic safety officers.
Final Thoughts
As a chiropodist, your focus should be on patient care, precision, and treatment—not worrying about faulty electrical equipment. PAT testing ensures that all your clinic devices are safe, reliable, and professional, allowing you to work with confidence and maintain high standards.
Because the only sparks in your clinic should come from excellent care—not electrical hazards.