PATBusting: Debunking Common Myths Around PAT Testing
Myth 1: PAT Testing is a Legal Requirement
Busted!
One of the most common misconceptions is that PAT Testing is a legal requirement. The reality? It isn’t.
There’s no specific law that says businesses must carry out PAT Testing. However, UK legislation does require employers to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition. This falls under:
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
PAT Testing is a recognised way to meet these obligations, but it’s not the only way. The law focuses on outcome (safety) rather than method (testing). That said, in most workplaces, PAT is the most efficient way to manage electrical safety — and often the one insurers expect to see.
Myth 2: Every Appliance Must Be Tested Every Year
Busted!
Annual testing for everything? That’s old-school thinking.
Current guidance from the IET Code of Practice for In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment (5th Edition) advocates a risk-based approach. This means the type of equipment, how it’s used, and where it’s used all determine how often it should be inspected or tested.
For example:
A kettle in a busy office kitchen might need testing more often than a rarely-used laminator in a quiet admin office.
A desktop computer in a low-risk environment may only need a visual inspection for years.
The frequency should be guided by a proper risk assessment, not a blanket schedule.
Myth 3: PAT Testing Is Just a Tick Box Exercise
Busted!
When done properly, PAT Testing is about much more than just putting a sticker on a plug.
Qualified PAT testers assess:
The suitability of the appliance
The condition of the cable and plug
Earthing and insulation resistance
Functionality of safety features
A good tester will also advise you on best practices, damaged items, or even spot poor storage or overloading issues.
Treating PAT Testing as a tick-box chore may lead to missed hazards or unnecessary testing, costing time and money.
Myth 4: You Need to Hire an External PAT Tester
Busted (kind of)!
You can hire a competent external PAT Testing company — and many businesses do for peace of mind. But you don’t have to.
The key word here is competent. You can carry out PAT Testing in-house, provided the person doing it has:
The right training
The correct equipment
An understanding of the types of faults to look out for
In fact, many organisations now train a facilities team member or health and safety officer to handle basic PAT Testing, especially for low-risk Class I and Class II appliances.
Myth 5: New Equipment Doesn’t Need Testing
Mostly Busted!
Technically, new equipment should arrive in safe condition and doesn’t require formal PAT Testing. But, in reality, it’s good practice to carry out a visual inspection before first use.
This is especially important if:
The item has been in storage
It’s come from a third-party supplier
It’s been delivered with signs of transit damage
It’s not about mistrusting the manufacturer — it’s about being thorough. A quick check can prevent problems later on.
Myth 6: PAT Testing Is Only for Offices and Workplaces
Busted!
PAT Testing isn’t just for office blocks or construction sites. It’s recommended anywhere portable appliances are used, including:
Schools and colleges
Hotels and guesthouses
Landlord and rental properties
Community centres and churches
Retail shops and food businesses
Even self-employed professionals — from mobile hairdressers to DJs — can benefit from regular PAT checks. It helps protect customers, and many venues now insist on up-to-date test records before allowing equipment to be plugged in.
Myth 7: A Failed Item Just Needs a New Sticker
Definitely Busted!
If an item fails PAT Testing, it must be removed from service immediately and either repaired or replaced. You can’t just slap a sticker on it and carry on.
A failed result could mean:
Exposed live parts
A broken earth connection
Frayed cables
Unsafe insulation resistance
Continuing to use a failed item could pose a real risk of electric shock, fire, or equipment damage. PAT isn’t about passing for the sake of it — it’s about keeping people safe.
PAT Testing gets a bad name when it’s done badly. But when it’s informed by risk, practicality, and common sense, it becomes a valuable part of your overall safety strategy.
So don’t get caught up in myths or outdated practices. Instead, ask yourself:
Is the equipment safe to use?
Have I documented my checks?
Am I reviewing the risk regularly?
That’s the real goal. PAT Testing doesn’t need to be overcomplicated — but it does need to be done right.
Need help reviewing your PAT Testing regime, or looking to train someone in-house? Our team at Test4Less is always happy to help. Whether you’re buying the right PAT Tester or looking for software like Seaward’s PATGuard 3, we’ve got the tools and advice to keep you compliant — and confident.
