Is PAT testing a legal requirement?
Last reviewed 22 August 2026
Is PAT testing a legal requirement?
No, not in the way the phrase suggests. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require electrical systems and equipment to be maintained so far as reasonably practicable to prevent danger. They never mention portable appliance testing, and they do not set an interval. PAT is one common way of discharging that duty, not the duty itself. What is not optional is being able to show that your equipment is maintained.
How often
No statutory interval exists. The frequency follows the risk
A construction site 110V tool and an office desk lamp do not need the same treatment. The law asks for maintenance sufficient to prevent danger; the interval is yours to justify.
Who it binds
Employers, the self-employed and those in control of premises, in respect of electrical equipment used at work. Landlords have separate duties for the equipment they supply.
Where the duty comes from
The short version
Next
Sources
Every claim above is checked against the primary text, and the date is the day we last opened it.
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1
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
legislation.gov.uk Primary text read and checked Checked 22 August 2026
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2
Maintaining portable electrical equipment (INDG236)
Health and Safety Executive Primary text read and checked Checked 22 August 2026