Your Trusted Partner for PAT Testing and Electrical Safety Compliance
Portable appliance testing abbreviated to PAT Testing within industry is an in-service inspection and test of electrical equipment to ensure it is safe to use.
It applies to the majority of electrical equipment found in industries such as construction, warehousing, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, logistics, healthcare to name a few.
Let Velocity Safety take care of your electrical safety needs.
Examples of appliances and equipment that requires an inspection and test
- Kettles, toasters, fridges, freezers and microwaves.
- Drills, sanders, compressors, saws and other corded tools.
- Chargers and docking stations.
- IT equipment such as monitors, laptops, printers, scanners and copiers.
- Extension leads
- Any many more………….
PAT Testing: What you need to know
A lot of organisations don’t understand the frequencies of testing and some insurance companies stipulate their own frequency.
The HSE’s guidance document HSG 107 provides a suggested interval within table 1 found on page 17 available to download from:
Our Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) Process
PAT testing isn’t just about ticking a box – it’s about protecting lives, equipment, and your business. Here’s how we do it properly:
1. Site Assessment & Planning
We map out your appliances and electrical inventory to ensure nothing is missed. Testing is scheduled around your operational needs to minimise disruption.
2. Visual Inspection
Each appliance is inspected for signs of damage, exposed wires, faulty plugs, incorrect fuses, or dangerous modifications.
3. Electrical Testing
Using calibrated PAT testers, we carry out earth continuity, insulation resistance, and functional tests where applicable.
4. Pass/Fail Labelling
Appliances are labelled with clear pass/fail stickers, including test dates, retest dates, and unique asset IDs for traceability.
5. Digital Reporting
You receive a full digital report listing all tested items, results, faults (if any), and retest guidance – perfect for audits and compliance records.
Faulty appliances are flagged clearly – and we’ll guide you on safe fixes or compliant replacements.
Why choose Velocity Safety Ltd
Why choose Velocity Safety Ltd for your Portable Appliance Testing
- Our engineers have passed the City & Guilds 2377 In-service and inspection of portable electrical equipment qualification and exam.
- Over 12 years experience in the health and safety industry.
- We carry out testing in accordance with HSG 107 and the IET Code of Practice 5th Edition.
- Equipment is labelled to aid in visual compliance.
- Downloadable PDF reports of the testing carried out
- A downloadable summary of all the inspections completed at a glance.
- Industry leading Seaward instrumentation used with downloadable data and asset records if required.
- Calibrated instrumentation used
What Others Say About Us…
From offices to workshops, clients value our flexible scheduling, fast reports, and clear advice on keeping their equipment safe.
“After many issues with the inspectors from our insurer I contacted Ross to quote. He saved us just over £3000 in the first year. He also does weekends for us to reduce downtime.”
Joe, Civils Company Midlands
“After spending £20k purchasing the wrong powered air units for our factory on our previous PPE supplier/H&S advisors recommendations, Ross came in and told us what we needed, why we needed it and what cost savings could be had over the life of the equipment. I just wish we found him sooner.”
David, Engineering Company North West
“Great Service, Great guy nothing is too much trouble.”
John, Groundworks Company North West
Frequently Asked Questions – Portable Appliance Testing
Here’s what businesses like yours often ask when arranging PAT testing.
Is PAT testing a legal requirement?
Not by name – but under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, you are legally required to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition. PAT is the recognised way to do this.
How often do I need PAT testing?
It depends on risk. Office equipment might only need testing every 3-5 years, while site tools or mobile appliances in harsh conditions should be tested more frequently from monthly to 3 monthly. We’ll advise based on your setup.
What types of appliances are tested?
Any portable or plug-in electrical equipment – including kettles, computers, extension leads, power tools, and more.
Do I need to turn everything off?
Some appliances (like PCs or fridges) require downtime for testing. We’ll work around your schedule to reduce impact on operations.
How long does it take?
Typically 2-5 minutes per item. A small office can be done in under an hour. Larger sites may take longer, but we’ll quote based on volume and access.
What happens if something fails?
We’ll flag it clearly and explain why. In many cases, the fix is simple (like a new plug or fuse). We never make unauthorised repairs – but we’ll guide you on next steps.
Is PAT testing needed for new equipment?
Not immediately, but it should be added to your testing schedule going forward. We recommend initial visual checks even for new items.
Do you keep our PAT records?
Yes – we store a copy of your reports in case you lose them or need evidence during audits.
What makes Velocity Safety different?
We don’t just test and leave – we help you understand the results, stay compliant, and keep your people safe. No jargon, no fuss.
Do you offer PAT Testing near me?
Yes, we provide Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) across the North West and beyond. Whether you’re a school in Preston, an engineering firm in Manchester or a warehouse in Leeds, we test all portable electrical items in line with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance – helping you stay compliant and audit-ready.
Whatever your portable electrical appliance requirements, you can be sure your in honest, reliable and safe hands.
Contact Velocity Safety today 01254 933 486 or Contact Us
Book a PAT Test for Your Site
Keep your electrical equipment safe and audit-ready. Our PAT testing service is fast, fully documented, and carried out by experienced technicians – ideal for offices, workshops, and site setups.
01254 933 486
info@velocitysafety.co.uk
Velocity Safety
Unit 7 Whitebirk Enterprise Centre,
Lower Phillips Road,
Blackburn,
Lancashire
BB1 5UD
