Construction Industry

PAT TESTING FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

The Electricity at Work Regulations Act 1989 Regulation 4(2) states: "As may be necessary to prevent danger, all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far is reasonably practical, such danger."

Due to the high risk nature of construction sites and the heavy usage of equipment the Institution of Electrical Engineers recommends that any items used on site, irregardless of voltage, should be visually inspected by the user at least once every four weeks. This check should be used to identify any flaws in the flex, plug or casing of the appliance.

A combined inspection and test (PAT test) is recommended to be carried out every three months. The PAT test is used to highlight any flaws that the user has not identified from his visual inspection, earth wire integrity and insulation properties of the appliance.

Portable appliance testing together with user checks is a major contributor towards ensuring safety at all times and will enable your business to comply with the legal criteria. Failure to implement a programme of regular appliance testing can lead to serious consequences as well as affecting your right to claim on insurance policies.

Insurance companies assume that you meet the above criteria and in the event of a claim arising from fire, injury or death could reduce payment, delay payment or even refuse to settle a claim involving an unsafe appliance which has not been tested.

In the event of an injury or death managers, supervisors and/or foremen could be prosecuted and fined up to £20000 in a Sheriff Court. Should indictment in a High Court follow, there could be an unlimited fine and/or up to two years imprisonment for failing to comply with the above Act and the Health and Safety (Offences) Act 2009.

It is the management's responsibility to prove compliance

Please feel free to contact us for any further information or advice or if you should have any questions.

Telephone: 01599 511367

Mobile: 07597 212673

Email:sales@highlandtestingltd.co.uk