PAT Testing
As PAT testing is new to many businesses in Ireland, it is important to understand what it is, its legal significance for health and safety in residences and the workplace and for insurance purposes. The FAQ’s below can help you determine if your premises or site requires PAT testing.
BENIFITS OF PAT TESTING
IMPROVE SAFETY
Keep your business and your staff safe from electrical injuries or possible fire hazards caused by appliances.
ENHANCE ASSET LIFETIME
Our staff are uniquely trained to spot faults which can result in your appliances not lasting as long as they should.
REDUCE INSURANCE LIABILITY
Having your appliances tested and certified demonstrates compliance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work 2007 S.I. 299.
INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY
With annual tests, there are less disruptions in the workplace due to faulty or hazardous appliances and wiring. Proper maintenance results in a smoother and safer experiences for everyone, resulting in increased productivity.
COMPLY WITH REGULATIONS
Keep your business legally compliant with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work 2007 S.I. 299.
INSURANCE REQUIREMENT
The majority of Irish insurers require that appliances are Pat tested and certified for proof of safety compliance to ensure coverage following any accidental events.
PROTECT YOUR STAFF
Faulty appliances can cause undue fire or electrical injury. Annually checking appliances protects your staff and colleagues from possible workplace incidents.
PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS
Businesses who do not comply with Pat testing as stated in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2007 S.I. 299, can be held liable for any injuries sustained by staff in the workplace. For example, a recent case involving an injury where the business had no Pat testing documents or certification was responsible for a €7000 settlement to the employee.
WHAT IS THE “PAT TESTING” LAW?
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations S.I NO.299 of 2013, Irish law requires that all businesses conduct testing on portable appliances in the workplace (in addition to their cables and plugs) to ensure the safety and welfare of both employees and customers.
FREQUENCY OF TESTING
The frequency of testing can depend on many factors such as: appliance use, the area of use, number of operators, and the age and class of the appliances requiring inspection and certification.
The majority of our clients begin testing annually to determine which appliances require additional or less maintenance. These annual tests are used to present a comprehensive risk assessment for clients to decide (after consultation) which appliances require less and/or more frequent testing.
PAT TESTING REPORTS & CERTIFICATES
All clients receive a detailed report which clearly outlines the results from all appliances. Once appliances have been tested, clients will also be provided with a certificate to demonstrate health and safety compliance. The reports and certificates are completed within approved formatting for presentation to safety offices and insurance companies.
WHAT IS A PORTABLE APPLIANCE?
Simply put, a portable appliance is considered one which has a plug that requires a socket for use.
Some examples of portable appliances in office spaces, kitchens and construction sites include: PCs, monitors, printers and extension leads; refrigerators, microwaves, toasters and kettles; hand drills, power reels and battery chargers, among many others.
WHAT IF THERE ARE FAILS?
In the event of an appliance failing, our technicians are most often able to quickly repair the appliance onsite for you. However, if the appliance cannot be repaired due to possible hazards or requires additional (and considerable maintenance), it will be placed into quarantine in accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Regulations (S.I NO.299 of 2013) to protect your business and staff.
IS IT A LEGAL REQUIREMENT?
Yes, testing portable appliances is a legal requirement under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2007 S.I. 299.
CAN IT BE DONE DURING WORKING HOURS?
Yes, our highly skilled and professional technicians can carry out testing services without disturbing your day to day business.