PAT Testing in Hastings & Bexhill: Commercial Electrical Safety Compliance

If you run a business in Hastings, Bexhill, or the surrounding areas of East Sussex, PAT testing in Hastings is one of the most straightforward steps you can take to protect your staff, your customers, and your business. Portable Appliance Testing ensures that every plug-in device in your workplace -- from computers and kettles to power tools and extension leads -- is safe for continued use and that your business meets its legal obligations under UK health and safety law.

In this guide, we cover everything a business owner or facilities manager needs to know: what PAT testing actually involves, the legal framework, which equipment needs testing, how often, what it costs, and how to keep compliant records. Whether you manage a small office in Bexhill or a large commercial premises in Hastings, the principles are the same.

What is PAT Testing?

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is the process of checking electrical appliances that are plugged into a mains socket to confirm they are safe for use. The term covers both a visual inspection and, where appropriate, a series of electrical tests carried out using a dedicated PAT testing instrument.

PAT testing applies to any electrical equipment that has a plug and can be moved -- even if it stays in the same place most of the time. The purpose is to identify faults, damage, or deterioration that could cause electric shock or fire before an incident occurs.

It is important to understand that PAT testing is distinct from an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report), which covers the fixed wiring and permanent electrical installation in a building. PAT testing covers the appliances that plug into that installation. Both are essential components of a complete electrical safety regime for any business.

A common misconception is that PAT testing is a single pass-or-fail test. In practice, it is a structured process that includes a visual inspection (which catches the majority of faults), followed by electrical tests appropriate to the class and type of appliance. The results are recorded, and each tested item receives a label showing whether it passed, when it was tested, and when the next test is due.

Legal Requirements

There is no single law in the UK that says "you must PAT test your appliances." However, two key pieces of legislation create a clear legal duty that, in practice, makes PAT testing essential for virtually every business.

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 places a general duty on employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare at work of all employees. This extends to the condition of all electrical equipment used in the workplace. If an employee is injured by a faulty appliance that should have been identified through routine testing, the employer is liable.

Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 are more specific. Regulation 4(2) states that all electrical systems must be maintained so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, any danger. "Electrical systems" includes every portable appliance in the workplace. The regulations do not prescribe exact testing methods or intervals, but they require the duty holder to demonstrate that maintenance is adequate. PAT testing is the recognised and accepted method of meeting this obligation.

Employer Duties

As an employer, you are required to:

• Ensure all electrical equipment used by employees is safe for use
• Maintain a system of inspection and testing appropriate to the risk level
• Keep records that demonstrate compliance
• Remove from service any equipment that fails inspection or testing
• Provide information and training to employees on the safe use of electrical equipment

Failure to comply can result in enforcement action by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), including improvement notices, prohibition notices, prosecution, and unlimited fines. In cases where negligence leads to serious injury or death, criminal charges and imprisonment are possible.

The HSE Position

The HSE has published clear guidance on PAT testing which states that while there is no legal requirement for annual PAT testing, employers must ensure that electrical equipment is maintained in a safe condition. The HSE recommends a risk-based approach: the frequency and type of testing should be proportionate to the risk posed by the equipment and the environment in which it is used. In most workplaces, a combination of user checks, formal visual inspections, and periodic electrical testing provides adequate assurance.

What Equipment Needs Testing

PAT testing covers any electrical appliance that has a plug and can be disconnected from the mains supply. In a typical commercial premises, this includes a wide range of equipment.

Office Equipment

• Desktop computers, monitors, and docking stations
• Laptops and their chargers
• Printers, scanners, and photocopiers
• Desk lamps and task lighting
• Fans, portable heaters, and air conditioning units
• Kettles, coffee machines, and microwaves
• Phone chargers and USB hubs
• Surge protection strips and multi-socket extensions
• Shredders and laminators

Tools and Industrial Equipment

• Corded power drills, saws, and grinders
• Sanders, planers, and routers
• Portable compressors
• Extension leads and cable reels
• Inspection lamps and work lights
• Soldering irons and heat guns

Cleaning Equipment

• Vacuum cleaners and carpet cleaners
• Floor polishers and scrubbers
• Pressure washers
• Steam cleaners

Catering and Kitchen Equipment

• Microwaves and toasters
• Kettles and water boilers
• Refrigerators (if plug-in type)
• Dishwashers
• Coffee machines and vending machines

What Does Not Need PAT Testing

Not everything requires a PAT test. The following are excluded:

• Fixed equipment -- permanently wired items such as hand dryers, storage heaters, and towel rails are covered by the EICR, not PAT testing
• Battery-operated items -- devices powered solely by batteries (not rechargeable from the mains) do not need testing
• New equipment under warranty -- brand-new appliances may not require formal PAT testing immediately, though a visual check before first use is still recommended
• Personal items -- employee-owned items brought into the workplace are more complex; best practice is to include them in testing or prohibit their use on company premises

Testing Frequency by Environment

One of the most common questions about PAT testing is how often it needs to be done. The answer depends on the type of equipment, the environment, and the level of risk.

The IET Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment provides the industry standard guidance. Here are the recommended intervals for common business environments.

Office Environments

Offices are classified as low-risk environments. Equipment is typically stationary, handled infrequently, and not exposed to harsh conditions.

• IT equipment (computers, monitors, printers): Combined inspection and test every 2 to 4 years, with a formal visual inspection annually
• Portable equipment (kettles, fans, heaters): Combined inspection and test every 2 years
• Extension leads and power strips: Combined inspection and test every 2 years (these are high-failure items despite the low-risk environment)

Construction Sites

Construction is a high-risk environment. Equipment is subject to physical damage, moisture, dust, and heavy use.

• 110V portable tools: Combined inspection and test every 3 months
• 230V portable equipment: Combined inspection and test every 3 months
• Extension leads and site cables: Combined inspection and test every 3 months
• Site offices and welfare units: Combined inspection and test every 6 to 12 months

Schools and Educational Facilities

Schools present a moderate-risk environment due to the variety of equipment and the presence of young people.

• Classroom equipment (computers, projectors): Combined inspection and test annually
• Science lab equipment: Combined inspection and test annually
• Design and technology workshop tools: Combined inspection and test every 6 to 12 months
• Kitchen and catering equipment: Combined inspection and test annually

Hotels, Restaurants, and Hospitality

Commercial kitchens and hospitality venues are higher-risk due to heat, moisture, and heavy daily use.

• Kitchen appliances: Combined inspection and test every 6 to 12 months
• Bar equipment: Combined inspection and test every 12 months
• Guest room appliances (hairdryers, kettles): Combined inspection and test every 12 months
• Cleaning equipment: Combined inspection and test every 12 months

Healthcare and Care Homes

Healthcare environments require stringent testing due to the vulnerability of patients and residents.

• Clinical equipment: Combined inspection and test every 6 to 12 months
• General equipment: Combined inspection and test annually
• Patient environment appliances: Combined inspection and test annually

The key principle is that higher risk demands more frequent testing. If you are unsure about the appropriate interval for your business, we can carry out a risk assessment as part of your first PAT testing visit and recommend a schedule tailored to your premises.

The PAT Testing Process

Understanding what happens during a PAT test helps you prepare your premises and ensures the process runs efficiently.

Step 1: Visual Inspection

The visual inspection is the first and most important part of the process. A significant proportion of faults -- industry estimates suggest around 90 per cent -- are identified through visual inspection alone, without any electrical testing.

The tester will examine each appliance for:

• Damage to the outer casing (cracks, dents, burn marks)
• Damage to the cable (cuts, kinks, exposed wires, excessive wear)
• Damage to the plug (cracked casing, bent pins, loose connections)
• Signs of overheating (discolouration, melted plastic, burning smell)
• Correct fuse rating for the appliance
• Suitability of the appliance for its environment (e.g., no standard equipment in wet areas)
• Evidence of previous repairs or modifications

Any appliance that shows visible damage or defects is failed immediately and removed from service.

Step 2: Electrical Tests

Following the visual inspection, the tester carries out electrical tests using a calibrated PAT testing instrument. The specific tests depend on the class of appliance:

• Earth continuity test -- confirms that the earth connection between the plug and the appliance body is intact and has sufficiently low resistance. This is critical for Class I (earthed) appliances.
• Insulation resistance test -- measures the resistance of the insulation between the live conductors and the earth (or the appliance body for Class II equipment). Low insulation resistance indicates deterioration or damage that could lead to electric shock.
• Earth leakage test -- measures the current flowing to earth during normal operation. Excessive leakage current indicates a developing fault.
• Polarity check -- confirms that live and neutral conductors are correctly connected within the plug.

Step 3: Pass or Fail Labelling

After testing, each appliance receives a label indicating the outcome:

• Pass label -- shows the test date, the next test due date, the tester's name or identification, and a unique asset number
• Fail label -- clearly marks the appliance as unsafe. Failed items must be immediately removed from service, disconnected, and either repaired and re-tested or disposed of

The labelling system provides a visible, at-a-glance indication of the testing status of every appliance in your workplace.

Step 4: Record Keeping

Every test result is recorded in a formal register. This register is your primary evidence of compliance and must include:

• A description of each appliance and its unique identifier
• The date of the test
• The name and signature of the person carrying out the test
• The results of the visual inspection and electrical tests
• The pass or fail outcome
• The date of the next scheduled test
• Notes on any remedial action taken

We provide this documentation digitally, making it straightforward to store, retrieve, and present during audits or HSE inspections.

PAT Testing Costs

Understanding the cost of PAT testing helps businesses budget effectively. Pricing is primarily based on the number of items to be tested.

Per-Item Pricing

The standard pricing model for PAT testing is a per-item charge:

Prices reduce as the number of items increases because the fixed costs of travel and setup are spread across more tests.

Minimum Call-Out Charge

For smaller offices with fewer items, a minimum call-out charge applies. This typically ranges from 80 to 120 pounds and covers the tester's travel time, setup, and a minimum number of items (usually 20 to 40 items depending on location).

What is Included

When you book PAT testing with D J Fox Electrical, the price includes:

• Visual inspection of every appliance
• Full electrical testing using calibrated instruments
• Pass or fail labelling on every tested item
• A comprehensive digital register of all results
• A summary report identifying any failed items and recommended actions
• Advice on testing frequency and any immediate safety concerns

Bulk and Contract Discounts

Businesses with large numbers of appliances or those booking regular annual testing benefit from reduced rates. A commercial maintenance contract that includes PAT testing alongside EICR and emergency lighting testing is the most cost-effective approach for businesses that need ongoing compliance management.

Factors Affecting Price

• Number of items -- the primary cost driver
• Location -- premises in central Hastings and Bexhill are within our core coverage area
• Accessibility -- if appliances are spread across multiple floors, buildings, or locked areas, this adds time
• Equipment complexity -- three-phase or specialist equipment may require additional testing time
• Urgency -- standard bookings are most cost-effective; same-day or next-day service carries a premium

Record Keeping and Compliance

Maintaining thorough records is not just good practice -- it is the primary way you demonstrate compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations. In the event of an accident, HSE investigation, or insurance claim, your PAT testing records are your first line of defence.

What Records to Keep

Your PAT testing documentation should include:

• Asset register -- a complete list of all portable electrical equipment on your premises, each with a unique identifier
• Test results -- the outcome of every visual inspection and electrical test, including measured values
• Pass and fail records -- clear identification of which items passed and which failed
• Remedial actions -- what was done with failed items (repaired, replaced, or disposed of)
• Tester details -- the name, qualifications, and employer of the person who carried out the testing
• Calibration certificates -- evidence that the PAT testing instrument was calibrated and within its certification date

Digital Record Keeping

We provide all PAT testing records in digital format. This offers several advantages over paper records:

• Easy to store and back up
• Searchable by appliance, location, date, or result
• Simple to share with insurers, auditors, or the HSE on request
• Automatic reminders for re-testing dates
• No risk of loss or damage from fire, flood, or misplacement

Annual Audit Reviews

For businesses on a regular testing schedule, an annual review of your PAT records helps identify trends: equipment types that fail frequently, areas of the premises with recurring issues, and appliances approaching the end of their useful life. This data-driven approach allows you to budget for replacements proactively rather than reacting to failures.

How Long to Keep Records

There is no legally prescribed retention period for PAT testing records, but best practice is to retain records for at least the life of the appliance plus a reasonable period afterwards. We recommend keeping records for a minimum of five years, or longer for high-risk environments. In the event of a historic claim or investigation, having comprehensive records going back several years is invaluable.

Insurance Requirements

Many commercial insurance policies require evidence of regular PAT testing as a condition of cover. If you make a claim for fire or electrical damage and cannot produce PAT testing records, your insurer may reduce or refuse the payout. Maintaining up-to-date records is not just about HSE compliance -- it protects your business financially.

Commercial Coverage: Hastings, Bexhill, and Eastbourne

D J Fox Electrical provides commercial PAT testing across Hastings, Bexhill, Eastbourne, and the wider East Sussex area. As a local, NICEIC Approved Contractor, we understand the needs of businesses in our region and offer reliable, responsive service.

Areas We Serve

We carry out PAT testing for commercial clients throughout:

• Hastings -- town centre offices, Castleham Business Park, industrial units, retail premises, care homes, and schools
• Bexhill-on-Sea -- Beeching Road commercial area, De La Warr Parade, town centre businesses, and Sidley industrial units
• Eastbourne -- Arndale Centre, Eastbourne Business Park, Sovereign Harbour, town centre offices, and retail premises
• St Leonards-on-Sea -- commercial premises, shops, and offices along the seafront and Kings Road
• Battle, Robertsbridge, and surrounding villages -- by arrangement

Sectors We Work With

Our commercial PAT testing clients include:

• Offices -- from small professional practices to multi-floor corporate premises
• Retail -- high street shops, shopping centres, and independent retailers
• Schools and colleges -- classrooms, labs, workshops, IT suites, and staff areas
• Care homes -- resident rooms, communal areas, kitchens, and laundries
• Hotels and hospitality -- guest rooms, kitchens, bars, function rooms, and back-of-house
• Construction sites -- site offices, welfare units, and on-site tools
• Industrial units -- workshops, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities
• Landlords -- testing appliances provided in rented properties

Scheduling and Availability

We offer flexible scheduling to minimise disruption to your business:

• Standard appointments within one to two weeks of enquiry
• Priority appointments within 48 hours for urgent compliance requirements
• Out-of-hours testing available for businesses that cannot accommodate daytime visits
• Annual contract scheduling where we manage your testing calendar and book visits proactively

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PAT testing a legal requirement?

There is no specific law that mandates PAT testing by name. However, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 require employers to maintain all electrical equipment in a safe condition. PAT testing is the recognised and accepted method of demonstrating compliance with these regulations. In practice, any business that does not carry out regular PAT testing is at significant legal risk.

How often should my office have PAT testing?

For a typical office environment, the IET Code of Practice recommends a combined visual inspection and electrical test every two to four years for IT equipment and every two years for portable items such as kettles, fans, and heaters. Extension leads and power strips should be tested every two years regardless of the environment. We can advise on the appropriate frequency for your specific premises during an initial assessment.

Can I do my own PAT testing?

There is no legal requirement for PAT testing to be carried out by a qualified electrician. However, the person carrying out the testing must be competent, which means they must have the knowledge, training, and experience to perform the tests safely and interpret the results correctly. They must also use calibrated testing equipment. In practice, most businesses engage a professional PAT testing service to ensure accuracy, proper documentation, and defensible compliance records.

What happens if an appliance fails?

A failed appliance must be immediately removed from service and clearly labelled as failed. It must not be used until it has been repaired by a competent person and re-tested successfully, or it must be disposed of. We will identify failed items in our report and advise whether repair is practical or replacement is recommended.

Do I need to test employees' personal items?

Employers have a duty to ensure that all electrical equipment used in the workplace is safe, regardless of who owns it. If employees bring personal items such as phone chargers, desk fans, or heaters into the workplace, those items should either be included in your PAT testing programme or prohibited from use on company premises. Many businesses include a clause in their health and safety policy addressing personal electrical equipment.

How long does PAT testing take?

The time required depends on the number of appliances and their accessibility. As a rough guide, an experienced tester can test between 100 and 200 items per day in a well-organised environment. A small office with 30 to 50 items would typically take one to two hours. A large commercial premises with 500 or more items may require one to two full days. We will give you an accurate time estimate when you book.

Book Your Commercial PAT Testing

Electrical safety compliance protects your staff, your customers, and your business. PAT testing is one of the simplest and most cost-effective steps you can take to meet your legal obligations and reduce the risk of electrical incidents in your workplace.

D J Fox Electrical is an NICEIC Approved Contractor, Part P Registered, and TrustMark endorsed. We provide professional PAT testing for businesses of all sizes across Hastings, Bexhill, Eastbourne, and the whole of East Sussex. From a single office to a multi-site portfolio, we deliver thorough testing, clear documentation, and practical advice.

Ready to book your PAT testing? Get in touch today to arrange a visit. Call us on [PLACEHOLDER] or email info@djfoxelectrical.com for a no-obligation quote. We offer competitive per-item pricing, bulk discounts for larger premises, and annual maintenance contracts that take the hassle out of ongoing compliance.