Why do we need Portable Appliance Testing?

THE CURRENT LEGISLATION:

The Health & Safety at Work Act 1974

"There is a duty of care on the employer and employee to ensure safe work premises."

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

"Electrical equipment used in the business shall be routinely inspected and tested to ensure it is safe and functional."

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment (PUWER) 1998

"Every employer shall ensure that work equipment is maintained in an efficient state, efficient working order and in good repair."

The Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999

"Every employer shall make adequate assessments of the Health & Safety risks his employees are exposed to whilst at work."

The only certain method of ensuring that appliances are safe is to have them tested by a qualified person using calibrated Portable Appliance Testing Equipment.

The inspection and testing of in-service electrical equipment (Portable Appliance Testing) was introduced to enable businesses to comply with the regulations.

The Health & Safety Executive offers no absolute rules on the frequency of the testing and inspection of portable appliances. The frequency of the inspection and testing will depend upon the appliance, its location and use. Most businesses opt for annual testing – this is the generally accepted interval.