The Importance of PAT Testing (EET Testing) on Construction Sites

July 3, 2023

An ever-changing environment

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT - now known as EET Testing) is an essential aspect of workplace safety, often overlooked in the busy, dynamic environments of construction sites. The purpose of PAT testing is to ensure that all electrical appliances and equipment are safe to use. Given that construction sites regularly set up anew and move their equipment, PAT testing becomes even more critical in these contexts.

Change of Location: Unlike fixed workplaces, construction sites often move, with equipment being frequently shifted from one place to another. Each time a piece of equipment is moved, it is susceptible to potential damage. Regular PAT testing, particularly after each move, can help identify any faults that may have occurred during transit.

Harsh Working Conditions: Construction sites are harsh environments for electrical equipment. The combination of dust, debris, moisture, and regular wear and tear can contribute to accelerated deterioration. PAT testing helps ensure that these factors haven't compromised the safety of the equipment.

High-Risk Environment: Construction sites inherently carry more risk than typical workspaces due to the nature of the work. With workers often operating heavy machinery and dealing with high voltage, any electrical fault can lead to severe accidents or even fatalities.

Investing time and resources in regular PAT testing on construction sites is not just a matter of compliance; it's a proactive step towards creating a safer working environment. By identifying potential faults before they cause harm, PAT testing significantly reduces the risk of electrical accidents on site and contributes to overall workplace safety. While PAT testing requires an investment of time and resources, the cost of neglecting it could be significantly higher, both in terms of human safety and regulatory penalties.

We recommend 3-montly inspections and more regular visual inspections. Find out more about Construction Testing.

< Older Post Newer Post >

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.