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Are annual PAT inspections neccessary?

There is no "Annual Inspection" requirement.

  • The Regulations only require you to ensure that electrical equipment is maintained in a safe condition.
  • They do not specify what needs to be done, by whom or how frequently.
  • Your organisation can decide the level of maintenance needed according to the risk of an item becoming faulty.

You can do most inspections and assessments yourself, there is no need to pay a "professional" to do these on low risk items.
The frequency of checks is a matter of judgement and common sense, as long as you check these on a regular basis. You might want to check critical equipment or older equipment more often, and newer equipement on a less regular basis.

Most Risk assesments can be done by staff, this encourages self-responsibility and awareness of risk.

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Useful Gadgets

Kewtech KEWCHECK103 Mains Wiring Socket Tester  Usual price range for this type of device - £9 to £25

An easy to use gadget for an instant check that a socket is safe to use.

There are many versions on the market, we have picked this particular one because:-

  • No electrical contact - just plug in
  • Safe and easy to use by any staff
  • Simple audible alarm, plug it in and listen for the tone
cqc toolkit log
  
Masterplug Single Socket RCD Safety Adaptor, 112 x 72.3 x 50.5 mm, Black  Usual price range for this type of device - £8 to £15

An RCD, or residual current device, is a life-saving device which is designed to prevent you from getting a fatal electric shock if you touch something live, such as a bare wire or faulty equipment.
It can also provide some protection against electrical fires. RCDs offer a level of personal protection that ordinary fuses and circuit-breakers cannot provide.

These are also widely availablefrom any hardware or DIY store

  • Easy to use - just plug it into a socket and then your appliance into the RCD
  • Useful for common use items such as Kettles; microwaves; fans
  • DO NOT USE on medical equipment or vaccine fridges
rcd protector amazon