As an art therapist, your workspace is more than just a room — it’s a place of expression, creativity, and emotional healing. Whether you work in a school, clinic, community centre, or private studio, you rely on a range of tools and equipment to support your clients’ journeys.
From lighting and projectors to heaters, audio equipment, and computers, these devices make your environment welcoming and functional. But to ensure safety for everyone who walks through your door, regular PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is essential.
What Is PAT Testing?
PAT testing is a routine inspection and testing process designed to ensure electrical appliances are safe to use. A qualified engineer checks each device — visually and electronically — to identify faults, damaged cables, or potential hazards.
Once tested, every appliance is labelled and logged, giving you clear proof that your studio or therapy room meets UK electrical safety standards.
Why PAT Testing Matters for Art Therapists
1. Client Safety Comes First
Art therapy sessions often involve vulnerable clients — children, adults, or individuals in emotional recovery. Ensuring all your electrical tools and appliances are safe demonstrates duty of care and helps maintain a secure, comfortable environment.
A faulty lamp, heater, or power tool could cause an accident or even a fire. PAT testing reduces these risks, keeping your therapy space safe for creative exploration.
2. Compliance With Health and Safety Regulations
Under the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989), anyone using electrical equipment in a professional setting must ensure it’s maintained to prevent danger. Regular PAT testing helps art therapists meet these legal obligations, especially if you run a registered therapy practice or work within a healthcare organisation.
3. Protecting Your Creative Tools
Art therapists often use a variety of equipment: glue guns, lamps, projectors, computers, fans, and even electric pottery tools. These items are essential for your sessions and can be expensive to replace. PAT testing helps detect small electrical issues early, preventing costly breakdowns or data loss.
4. Insurance and Professional Standards
Many insurance providers require proof of regular PAT testing to validate business or public liability coverage. For self-employed therapists or those running private studios, keeping up-to-date PAT records not only protects your insurance but also demonstrates professionalism and care.
5. Shared and Mobile Workspaces
If you provide therapy sessions across multiple venues — such as schools, hospitals, or community centres — you may transport electrical equipment between sites. Portable items are more prone to wear and tear, making PAT testing even more important to ensure continued safety wherever you work.
How Often Should Art Therapists Get PAT Testing Done?
Most art therapy practices benefit from annual PAT testing, ensuring all equipment remains safe and compliant. If you frequently move or share equipment, more frequent checks — every six months — may be advisable.
Why Choose PAT Checked for PAT Testing in Art Therapy?
At PAT Checked, we understand that art therapy is about compassion, creativity, and connection — and we’re here to help you keep that environment safe.
Our PAT testing service is:
- Flexible – We work around your therapy sessions or clinic hours.
- Comprehensive – Every appliance is thoroughly tested, logged, and labelled.
- Professional – Our engineers are fully qualified, insured, and friendly.
- Affordable – Perfect for small practices, charities, and independent therapists.
With PAT Checked, you can rest easy knowing your therapy space is fully compliant and safe — for you, your clients, and your creative tools.
👉 Book your PAT test today or contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.