What is the legal requirement for PAT testing in Ireland?
What is the legal requirement for PAT testing in Ireland?
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulation’s S.I NO. 299 of 2007 means that there is a requirement under Irish law that all businesses carry out PAT Testing on all portable appliances. This is to ensure the safety and welfare of both employees and customers.
What legislation covers PAT testing?
Current legislation relating to the maintenance of electrical equipment in the workplace includes: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.
What is the meaning of PAT testing?
Portable appliance testing
Portable appliance testing (PAT) is the term used to describe the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. Most electrical safety defects can be found by visual examination but some types of defect can only be found by testing.
What is PAT testing and why is it important?
A PAT test is a routine inspection of some types of electrical appliance to check they are safe to use. Its purpose is to prevent electrical accidents in the workplace. A full PAT test should include both a visual inspection and a more in-depth check using specialist PAT testing equipment.
Is PAT testing required by law?
There is currently no legal requirement to PAT test but employers are legally required to create a safe working environment and PAT testing is a great risk management strategy.
How often does PAT testing need to be done in Ireland?
How often should PAT Testing be done in Ireland? While testing is done on a regular bases the frequency of testing varies. PAT Tests are recommendations based on the type of equipment. This ranges from 3 to months to 5 years depending on its operating environment.
What is the main piece of legislation that governs safe working practices involving electricity and portable equipment?
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)
Is PAT testing a legal requirement in the workplace?
What does PAT stand for in healthcare?
Pre-Admission Testing (PAT)
Is PAT testing a legal requirement for businesses?
Is PAT testing required every year?
Class 1 equipment (general IT equipment) should be tested every 4 years. Portable equipment such as extension leads should be tested every 2 years. Handheld and more frequently used and transported equipment should be tested every 12 months due to the increased risk of damage.