Comedy is all about timing, delivery, and connecting with your audience—but behind every great set, a comedian relies on electrical equipment like microphones, speakers, laptops, lighting rigs, and recording devices. Faulty equipment can disrupt performances, damage gear, or even create safety hazards.
PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) ensures all your equipment is safe, reliable, and compliant—so you can focus on the laughs, not the hazards.
What Is PAT Testing?
PAT testing is the process of inspecting electrical appliances to ensure they are safe to use. It typically involves:
- Visual inspection – examining plugs, cables, and devices for visible wear, fraying, or damage.
- Electrical testing – using specialist tools to detect hidden faults that could lead to shocks, fires, or equipment failure.
Each item is labelled pass/fail, and a certificate is issued—helpful for insurance, comedy clubs, and professional compliance.
Why PAT Testing Matters for Comedians
Even in seemingly low-risk venues, electrical hazards exist. PAT testing helps by:
- Protecting performers and audience members – reducing the risk of electric shocks, fires, or accidents.
- Ensuring uninterrupted performances – avoiding sudden failures in microphones, speakers, or lighting rigs during your set.
- Supporting professional standards – demonstrating responsibility to venues, event organisers, and collaborators.
- Extending the life of equipment – identifying small faults before they cause costly repairs or replacements.
- Maintaining compliance – required in comedy clubs, theatres, and rented performance spaces.
What Equipment Should Comedians Get PAT Tested?
All electrical devices used for performances or rehearsals should be included:
- Microphones, amplifiers, and speakers
- Laptops and tablets used for set preparation or recording
- Stage and studio lighting
- Projectors or screens used for visual gags or presentations
- Extension leads, power strips, and chargers
Even portable items that travel between gigs should be tested, as movement and frequent use increase the risk of wear.
How Often Should PAT Testing Be Done?
- Annually – for most performance and rehearsal equipment.
- Every 6–12 months – for high-use or portable items like microphones and speakers.
- Immediately – after visible damage or repairs.
Regular testing ensures your comedy shows remain safe, professional, and uninterrupted.
Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement?
PAT testing itself isn’t directly mandated by law, but the Health and Safety at Work Act requires all workplace electrical equipment to be safe. PAT testing is the recognised method to demonstrate compliance and is often requested by venues, insurers, and event organisers.
Final Thoughts
For comedians, timing, delivery, and audience connection are everything—but safety and reliability are just as important. PAT testing ensures that all electrical equipment—from microphones to lighting rigs—is safe, reliable, and ready to support your performance.
Because the only sparks you should see in your act are from your punchlines—not from faulty equipment. ⚡🎤