How often do my appliances have to be PAT tested?

The relevant requirement of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 is that equipment shall be maintained so as to prevent danger. Inspection and testing are means of determining whether maintenance is required. The frequency of inspection and testing will depend upon the likelihood of maintenance being required and the consequence of lack of maintenance. Factors influencing the decision are: the environment, the users, the equipment construction and the equipment type. Taking all the above into consideration, most clients have their appliances tested every 12 months. For appliances in harsh industrial environments 6 months would be more appropriate. For IT equipment in an office environment 24 months or longer may be all that is required.