Charity shops are vibrant community hubs, welcoming staff, volunteers, and customers every day. From tills and card payment machines to kettles, heaters, and display lighting, charity shops rely on a range of electrical appliances to operate smoothly.
With constant use and donations of second-hand electrical items, electrical safety becomes a top priority. That’s why PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is essential for charity shops. It ensures that all appliances are safe, compliant, and fully operational — protecting everyone in your store and safeguarding your reputation.
What Is PAT Testing?
PAT testing is the inspection and testing of portable electrical appliances to ensure they are safe to use. A qualified engineer:
- Performs a visual inspection to detect signs of wear, frayed wires, or broken plugs
- Conducts electrical tests to identify hidden faults
- Labels each appliance with a pass or fail sticker
- Provides a detailed report and compliance certificate
PAT testing gives charity shops proof that their equipment meets UK electrical safety standards, helping comply with health and safety regulations.
Why PAT Testing Is Important for Charity Shops
1. Protecting Staff, Volunteers, and Customers
Charity shops often rely on volunteers who may have limited training in electrical safety. PAT testing ensures that all appliances — from kettles and heaters to tills and lighting — are safe, reducing the risk of electric shocks or fires.
2. Managing Donated Electrical Items
Many charity shops sell second-hand electrical appliances. PAT testing allows you to safely check donated items before sale, protecting customers and your store from potential liability.
3. Legal Compliance
Under the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989), all business operators must maintain safe electrical systems. Regular PAT testing helps charity shops meet their legal obligations and demonstrate compliance during inspections.
4. Insurance Requirements
Insurance policies for charity shops often require proof of regular electrical safety checks. PAT testing ensures that your store is fully covered in case of electrical incidents, avoiding disputes with insurers.
5. Preventing Equipment Downtime
Faulty appliances can disrupt daily operations. PAT testing identifies potential issues early, helping your shop run smoothly without interruptions to sales or customer service.
How Often Should Charity Shops Get PAT Testing Done?
For charity shops, annual PAT testing is recommended.
High-use areas, such as tills, heaters, or kitchen appliances for staff, may benefit from six-monthly inspections to maintain safety and compliance.
Why Choose PAT Checked for PAT Testing for Charity Shops?
At PAT Checked, we specialise in PAT testing for retail outlets, charity shops, and community stores across the UK. Our certified engineers work efficiently to ensure safety with minimal disruption to your daily operations.
We provide:
- Flexible appointment times (before opening or after closing)
- Qualified engineers familiar with retail environments
- Comprehensive testing reports and compliance certificates
- Affordable, transparent pricing for single shops or multiple branches
Keep your charity shop safe, compliant, and trusted by your community — with professional PAT testing that protects staff, volunteers, and customers.
👉 Book your PAT test today or contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.