Ring girls are an essential part of combat sports events, ensuring the show flows smoothly while keeping the audience engaged. Behind the glamour and choreography, many aspects of a ring girl’s work rely on electrical equipment—lighting rigs, music systems, cameras, and studio or arena appliances. Faulty equipment can disrupt performances, create safety hazards, or damage valuable gear.
PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) ensures all devices are safe, reliable, and compliant—allowing ring girls to focus on performance and professionalism without worry.
What Is PAT Testing?
PAT testing is the process of checking electrical appliances to ensure they are safe to use. It typically involves:
- Visual inspection – examining plugs, cables, and devices for wear, fraying, or visible damage.
- Electrical testing – using specialist tools to detect hidden faults that could cause shocks, fires, or equipment failure.
Each appliance is labelled pass/fail, and a certificate is issued—important for arenas, studios, and professional compliance.
Why PAT Testing Matters for Ring Girls
Even in controlled environments, electrical hazards exist. PAT testing helps by:
- Protecting performers and crew – reducing the risk of electric shocks, fires, or accidents during rehearsals or live events.
- Ensuring uninterrupted performances – avoiding failures in lighting, music systems, or stage equipment.
- Supporting professionalism – demonstrating responsibility to promoters, production teams, and event organisers.
- Extending equipment lifespan – identifying small faults before they cause costly damage.
- Maintaining compliance – required in arenas, studios, and event venues.
What Equipment Should Ring Girls Get PAT Tested?
All electrical devices used in rehearsals or live events should be included:
- Stage lighting and spotlights
- Music systems, speakers, and amplifiers
- Cameras, monitors, and playback equipment
- Fans, heaters, or climate control units in rehearsal spaces
- Extension leads, power strips, and chargers
Even portable items should be tested, as frequent handling, travel, and setup increase wear and risk.
How Often Should PAT Testing Be Done?
- Annually – for most arena and studio equipment.
- Every 6–12 months – for high-use or portable items like speakers, lighting rigs, or monitors.
- Immediately – after visible damage or repairs.
Regular testing ensures performances remain safe, professional, and uninterrupted.
Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement?
PAT testing isn’t directly mandated by law, but the Health and Safety at Work Act requires that all workplace electrical equipment is safe. PAT testing is the recognised method to demonstrate compliance and is often requested by arenas, insurers, and event organisers.
Final Thoughts
For ring girls, professionalism, timing, and presentation are essential—but safety and equipment reliability are equally important. PAT testing ensures that all electrical equipment—from lighting rigs to audio systems—is safe, functional, and ready to support every event.
Because the only sparks you should see in the ring are from the performance—not faulty equipment. ⚡💃