PAT Testing Records: How Long Should You Keep Them?

By adminPAT Testing

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is essential for workplace safety, compliance, and insurance purposes. But conducting tests is only part of the process. Maintaining accurate records is just as important—and knowing how long to keep them can save your business from legal and financial complications.

Why PAT Records Matter

PAT testing records are more than just a checklist—they are proof that your business or property is:

  • Compliant with safety regulations under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
  • Managing risk responsibly to prevent electrical accidents
  • Protecting your insurance coverage, as insurers often require evidence of regular testing
  • Documenting maintenance history for audits, inspections, or future testing

Records typically include:

  • Appliance description and location
  • Test date and results
  • Details of any faults or repairs
  • Tester name and certification

How Long Should You Keep PAT Records?

There isn’t a specific law in the UK that sets a fixed retention period. However, best practice and guidance from health and safety authorities recommend:

  1. Minimum Retention Period:
    • Keep records for at least 5 years. This covers most workplace inspections, insurance checks, and employee turnover.
  2. High-Risk Environments:
    • For sites like construction, healthcare, or schools, consider retaining records for longer than 5 years due to higher liability risk.
  3. Digital Records:
    • Cloud-based or digital records are easier to store long-term and can be backed up securely.
    • Ensure digital systems are compliant with data protection and easily accessible for inspections.

Benefits of Keeping PAT Records

  • Legal Protection: Demonstrates due diligence if an incident occurs.
  • Insurance Compliance: Many insurers require proof of regular testing when processing claims.
  • Maintenance Tracking: Helps identify recurring faults and plan repairs or replacements.
  • Audit Readiness: Makes health and safety inspections straightforward and stress-free.

Tips for Effective PAT Record-Keeping

  1. Standardise Your System – Use a consistent format for appliance details, test results, and actions taken.
  2. Update Immediately – Record results and actions as soon as testing is completed.
  3. Secure Storage – Keep records safe but accessible for authorised personnel.
  4. Regular Review – Periodically check records to ensure no appliances are missed and follow-up actions have been completed.

Final Thoughts

PAT testing records are a vital part of electrical safety management. Keeping them for at least five years protects your business legally, supports insurance claims, and helps maintain a safe working environment.

👉 Don’t just test appliances—document everything. Accurate records are your safety net, evidence of compliance, and a practical tool for ongoing workplace safety.