Preparing Your Business for PAT Testing

June 26, 2025

All the things you need to know before the big day!

Make a List of Equipment to Be Tested

Start with anything that plugs into the mains: computers, monitors, kettles, fans, extension leads, drills, chargers, and even fridges. This helps streamline the process and ensures no items are missed. Many clients find this also acts as a valuable asset register for insurance and compliance records. Don't worry if you miss things, as we produce a list also as part of our process and visual inspection. But be warned, we won't go hunting for items inside cupboards, so have a think about hidden items that are used less.

Group Equipment by Location

Organising items by room or department makes it faster for our engineers to move through your site methodically. Labelling desks, offices or workshop zones helps save time and reduces repeat visits to the same areas. We can help you with this when doing testing for the first time.

Ensure Access to All Equipment

Please make sure we can safely reach plug sockets and appliances. Move filing cabinets, unlock rooms, and ensure keys are available for server cupboards or outbuildings. We often see delays caused by blocked or inaccessible plug points under desks and inside locked rooms.

Charge Rechargeable Equipment in Advance

Laptops, power tools, vacuum cleaners and handheld devices should be fully charged before our arrival. Should we need to unplug them to test, you're covered.

Let Staff Know in Advance

A simple notice or internal message telling your team when PAT testing will occur helps avoid surprises. Staff can shut down machines or save work before their equipment is tested. We’re flexible, but forewarning ensures smoother cooperation.

Plan for Low-Disruption Timing

We’re used to working outside of standard hours. Many clients in Horsham opt for early morning, evening or weekend visits to minimise downtime. We're happy to arrange a time that suits your schedule.

Know What to Expect on the Day

Our qualified engineer will carry out a visual inspection of each item, followed by an electrical test for earth continuity, insulation resistance and leakage. Labels will be applied to every item tested, and you’ll receive a full digital certificate on completion, often on the same day.

Why Local Businesses in Horsham Choose Us

✔ Serving West Sussex and Surrey for 15+ years
✔ City & Guilds-qualified engineers (C&G 2377)
✔ Enhanced DBS checked, fully insured
✔ Rated “Excellent” for speed, clarity and reliability
✔ Certificate and itemised reports delivered promptly

Ready to Book or Need Advice?

If you're a Horsham-based business preparing for PAT testing, we’re here to help. Get in touch for a no-obligation quote or to schedule a site visit at a time that works for you.

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Do New Electrical Appliances Really Need PAT Testing?

September 9, 2025

Introduction We’ve been hearing this question more and more from customers lately: “Do brand-new appliances still need PAT testing?” It’s a fair question. After all, new equipment usually arrives sealed, with manufacturer labels and testing certificates. But when it comes to safety, compliance, and peace of mind, the answer is a little more nuanced. What the Law Actually Says There is no strict legal requirement that says every appliance must be PAT tested. The law simply requires that employers and duty holders keep electrical equipment safe and properly maintained. That means the responsibility is on you to ensure equipment is safe to use, whether it’s new or not. The law doesn’t prescribe how you do it, but PAT testing is one of the most reliable methods. New Equipment: What Best Practice Looks Like Industry guidance generally states that brand-new equipment does not usually need a full PAT test . A thorough visual inspection is often enough. Why? Because new appliances are supplied as safe. But… there are a few important caveats. Why Some Organisations Still Choose to PAT Test New Appliances Even new items can develop issues before they reach you: Transit damage : knocks, drops, or rough handling. Storage conditions : damp, dust, or stacking problems. Manufacturing faults : rare, but possible. For most offices or low-risk workplaces, a visual check may be sufficient. But in higher-risk environments, like healthcare, construction, or manufacturing, many duty holders choose to test new equipment anyway. It’s about risk, peace of mind, and protecting people. A Risk-Based Approach That Works Low-risk settings (offices, shops, classrooms): Carry out a visual inspection, log the equipment, and move it into service. High-risk or critical settings (workshops, hospitals, factories): Consider a full PAT test even for new appliances, to establish a safe baseline and prevent costly downtime or accidents. Documentation and Competence Matter Whether you perform a visual inspection or a full PAT test, keep a record. This creates a clear audit trail and shows that you’ve taken reasonable steps to ensure safety. It’s also important that the person carrying out the inspection or test is competent, trained, knowledgeable, and confident in spotting issues. Conclusion: What’s the Smartest Strategy? In most cases, new appliances don’t require PAT testing, just a solid visual check as part of your risk management process. But remember: if the equipment is critical, the environment is high-risk, or there’s any sign of damage, a PAT test is a small investment in safety and peace of mind.