As a tattoo artist, your focus is on creating safe, precise, and beautiful body art. But your craft also relies on electrical equipment such as tattoo machines, power supplies, lights, sterilizers, and computers. Faulty equipment can disrupt your work, damage tools, or—even worse—pose safety hazards to you and your clients.
PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) ensures that all your electrical devices are safe, reliable, and ready to support your work, letting you focus on your artistry.
What Is PAT Testing?
PAT testing is the process of checking electrical appliances to make sure they are safe to use. It involves:
- Visual inspection – looking for damaged plugs, frayed cords, or visible wear.
- Electrical testing – using specialist equipment to detect hidden faults that could cause shocks or fires.
After testing, each appliance is labelled pass/fail, and a certificate is usually issued. For tattoo studios, this provides reassurance to both staff and clients that safety is a priority.
Why PAT Testing Matters for Tattoo Artists
Even small electrical faults can create serious risks in a tattoo studio. PAT testing helps by:
- Protecting you and your clients – preventing shocks, fires, or equipment failure during procedures.
- Ensuring uninterrupted sessions – faulty tattoo machines or lights can ruin appointments.
- Maintaining professional standards – showing that your studio follows rigorous safety protocols.
- Supporting insurance compliance – many public liability policies require evidence of PAT-tested equipment.
- Extending the lifespan of your tools – detecting faults early prevents damage to expensive machines.
What Equipment Should Tattoo Artists Get PAT Tested?
Any electrical device in your studio should be considered:
- Tattoo machines and power supplies
- Adjustable chairs, stools, and lamps
- Sterilizers and autoclaves
- Laptops, tablets, and printers
- Extension leads, adapters, and power strips
- Small appliances like fans or heaters used in the workspace
Even equipment used occasionally should be included to avoid unexpected 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 items.
- After visible damage or repairs – always retest before use.
Many tattoo studios schedule PAT testing annually to maintain a safe and professional environment.
Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement?
PAT testing itself is not legally mandated, but UK and European regulations require all electrical equipment used at work to be safe. PAT testing is the recognised method to demonstrate compliance and is often requested by insurers or local health and safety inspectors.
Final Thoughts
Your art is precise, your clients’ safety is paramount—and so is the safety of your equipment. PAT testing ensures that all electrical devices in your studio are safe, reliable, and professional, letting you focus on delivering high-quality tattoos without worry.
Because the only sparks in your studio should come from creativity—not faulty equipment.