How Often Should PAT Testing Be Done?

Keeping electrical equipment safe is a basic part of running any workplace. From computers and kettles to power tools and vending machines, anything that plugs into the mains supply can develop faults over time.

This is where PAT testing comes in. Today, it is officially known as ITEE, which stands for Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment.

Most people still call it PAT testing but the goal remains the same. It helps ensure electrical equipment is safe to use and does not put people or buildings at risk.

So, how often should PAT testing be done? The answer depends on the level of risk.

How Often Should PAT Testing Be Done?

There is no single rule that applies to every workplace. Testing frequency depends on several factors. These include:

• The type of equipment
• How often it is used
• The environment it is used in
• The condition of the equipment

Health and Safety Executive guidance generally breaks testing frequency into three broad categories.

High Risk Environments

Workplaces where equipment is heavily used or exposed to harsh conditions need more frequent testing. Examples include:

• Construction sites
• Factories
• Industrial workshops

In these environments, PAT testing is often carried out every 3 to 6 months.

Power tools and equipment used daily are more likely to become damaged, so frequent inspection helps catch problems early.

Medium Risk Environments

Many workplaces fall into this category. Examples include:

• Offices
• Schools
• Shops
• Hotels

Here, equipment is usually tested once a year. Some items may need checking more often if they are used frequently or moved around a lot.

For example, extension leads and phone chargers may wear out faster than fixed office equipment.

Low Risk Environments

Some buildings have very little electrical equipment and low daily usage. Examples might include:

• Storage facilities
• Buildings with minimal staff
• Locations with rarely moved equipment

In these situations, testing may take place every two to four years, although annual testing is still common for many businesses.

The key point is that the testing schedule should be based on a proper risk assessment.

Understanding PAT Testing and ITEE

PAT testing checks electrical equipment for faults that could lead to electric shock, fire or equipment failure.

The inspection has two parts.

Visual inspection 

An engineer checks the appliance for visible issues such as damaged plugs, frayed cables, loose wiring or burn marks.

Electronic testing 

Specialist equipment is used to run electrical safety tests. These checks measure things like insulation resistance, earth continuity and wiring polarity.

The term PAT testing originally focused on "portable appliances". This caused confusion because many larger items that plug into the mains were sometimes ignored.

That is why the official name changed to ITEE in the latest IET Code of Practice.

The new term makes it clear that all electrical equipment connected to the mains supply should be inspected and tested where appropriate.

Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement?

Yes, employers must ensure electrical equipment is safe to use under UK law. This duty comes from:

• The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

The law does not say testing must happen once a year. Instead, it requires employers to maintain equipment so it does not become dangerous.

That means carrying out inspections and testing at suitable intervals based on risk.

Book PAT Testing With TISS Electrical

If you need PAT testing carried out professionally, the TISS Electrical team can help.

Our engineers carry out full ITEE inspections and testing of electrical equipment using calibrated Bluetooth data logging equipment.

Every result is recorded clearly so your compliance records stay organised and easy to access.

TISS Electrical works with organisations of all sizes across the UK, from small offices to large sites with thousands of appliances. Our teams plan testing carefully to minimise disruption to daily operations.

Call us today on 01245 377 625 and book a professional inspection. Our experienced engineers will help keep your equipment safe, your business compliant and your workplace ready for inspection.