Health and Safety Executive

Myth: All office equipment must be tested by a qualified electrician every year

July 2007

A worker getting agitated about PAT testing

The reality

No. The law requires employers to assess risks and take appropriate action.

HSE’s advice is that for most office electrical equipment, visual checks for obvious signs of damage and perhaps simple tests by a competent member of staff are quite sufficient.

Check out our guidance below.

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Updated 01.12.09