Your Questions, Answered

PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is the inspection and electronic testing of portable electrical appliances to confirm they are safe for continued use. It combines a visual inspection with tests of earth continuity and insulation resistance.

There is no specific law that mandates PAT testing by name. However, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 requires all electrical equipment in the workplace to be maintained safely. PAT testing is the recognised method for demonstrating compliance, and many insurers require a valid certificate.

Frequency depends on the environment and equipment type. A low-risk office with stationary IT equipment may only need testing every 2–4 years. High-use equipment or appliances in riskier environments (workshops, catering) typically need annual testing. David can advise the right interval for your specific situation.

Each appliance takes around 3–5 minutes. Most small to medium offices (50–150 appliances) are completed in a single morning with minimal disruption to your working day.

Any portable appliance with a plug: laptops, desktops, monitors, printers, desk fans, kettles, microwaves, phone chargers, floor lamps, extension leads, and power tools. Fixed (hardwired) equipment is not covered by PAT testing — that requires an EICR.

Failed appliances should be taken out of service until repaired or replaced. David will give you a clear written report of any failures with notes on the likely cause so you can prioritise remedial action.

Technically, anyone can carry out a PAT test if they are competent to do so. However, for business compliance purposes, it is strongly advisable to have testing done by a qualified professional who can issue a formal certificate and sign off on the results.

Pricing is per-appliance with volume discounts for larger sites. Contact David for a free, no-obligation quote based on your specific requirements — there are no call-out charges for sites within Berkshire and the Thames Valley.

Emergency lighting is a self-contained system that activates automatically when the mains power supply fails. It illuminates escape routes, exit signs, and high-risk areas to allow safe evacuation of the building.

Yes. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires responsible persons (employers and building owners) to ensure adequate emergency lighting is installed and maintained in non-domestic premises. Testing is mandatory, and you should be able to produce a certificate as evidence of compliance.

BS 5266 specifies: a brief monthly functional test (1 minute per fitting), an annual full duration test (1 or 3 hours), and a 3-yearly full discharge test. The monthly test can be done in-house; the annual test should be carried out by a competent person.

Emergency luminaires are rated for either 1-hour or 3-hour operation. High-risk premises (e.g. larger venues, care homes) typically require 3-hour rated fittings. The correct duration for your building is determined by the fire risk assessment.

Failed fittings are documented in the test report with notes on the likely cause. You'll receive a clear remedial works list so you can arrange repair or replacement and return to full compliance.

Yes. BS 5266 requires a logbook recording all tests, inspections, and remedial works. David updates your logbook on every visit and the test certificate provides a formal audit trail for fire safety inspections.

The brief monthly functional test can be done by a trained member of your own staff. However, the annual duration test and the associated compliance certificate must be carried out by a competent person — David can carry out and certify all annual and periodic testing.

Costs vary based on the size of the system and the number of luminaires. Contact David for a free, no-obligation quote for your premises.