Electrical regulations require employers and landlords to ensure that all electrical items are suitable for use.
Electrical regulations require employers and landlords to ensure that all electrical items are maintained and suitable for use, ensuring that any risks to employees, tenants and members of the public are minimised.
Any plug, lead or appliance can be damaged over time without the user knowing, which could make that appliance dangerous. Appliances used on a daily basis by several different people are more likely to deteriorate faster.
With more than 2000 fires caused by faulty electrical appliances per annum*, and when the Health & Safety Executive have investigated, it was often found that no one had checked to ensure that the appliance was in a safe condition and regular testing had not been carried out or the item missed. You as an employer or landlord may be legally responsible should any accidents or injuries happen.
There have been many cases when failure to comply with the Electrical Regulations has resulted in criminal prosecution which carries a maximum penalty of £5000.00 and/or 6 months imprisonment.
One of the ways to ensure that all appliances are checked is to PAT Test all portable appliances.
More Insurers are now stipulating that testing is carried out as a condition of cover and asking for evidence that PAT testing has been completed. More importantly they may deny claims in the event of damage caused by electrical fault if the guidelines for Electrical Testing have not been followed.
Regular PAT testing and inspection will ensure that all portable appliances are safe to use and give you peace of mind ensuring that employees and members of the public are in a safe working environment.
*source Health & Safety Executive
