07576 584901Testmasterinfo@gmail.com 24/7 online enquiries About Services Areas ReviewsOur WorkSocialContact07576 584901Request a Free Quote Home/Blog/PAT testingPAT testing # How often should PAT testing be done? Reviewing intervals after real inspection results By Test Master UK6 November 20262 min read Service illustration: pat testingPAT testing frequency should be reviewed as equipment use and inspection evidence change. There is no blanket rule that every appliance must be electrically tested annually. Our existing risk-based frequency guide explains how to set a starting plan; this guide looks at reviewing that plan after inspections, incidents and changes in the workplace. ## Look for patterns, not only pass totals Group results by equipment and actual use. Repeated lead damage, overheating or damaged plugs may indicate handling or storage problems. An overall pass percentage can conceal a recurring fault in a small but important equipment group. Ask why the damage occurs and whether the equipment is suitable. Changing cable routing, storage or staff awareness may be more effective than repeatedly testing an item exposed to the same avoidable damage. ## Changes in use can change the risk A device moved from a quiet office to a shared kitchen or transported between sites may need a different approach. Consider handling, environment and foreseeable damage rather than assuming that its old next-test date remains appropriate. New equipment, repairs and changes in ownership should enter the maintenance system. An inherited label does not explain how the item was used or whether its recorded result relates to the present circumstances. ## Review with competent advice HSE guidance supports a proportionate system of user checks, formal visual inspection and testing where appropriate. Those activities can have different intervals. Record the reasoning behind a change and the evidence considered. A run of satisfactory results may inform a competent review, but it does not automatically justify extending every interval. Manufacturer instructions, contract conditions and applicable property requirements remain relevant. Do not copy an unsourced office, school or hotel timetable as a legal rule. ## Keep faults separate from routine dates A damaged appliance needs prompt action even if its next scheduled test is months away. Staff should know how to report concerns and prevent unsafe use. More frequent inspection is not a substitute for resolving a known defect. Discuss risk-informed PAT testing with your previous register and findings. For PAT testing in Ealing, explain equipment changes and recurring problems so the enquiry reflects the real scope. - Review recurring defects by equipment group. - Record changes in use and environment. - Keep different check types distinguishable. - Document interval decisions and their rationale. ## Sources and further reading - HSE: Portable appliance testing FAQs - HSE: Maintaining portable electrical equipmentGeneral guidance for premises in England, checked on 6 November 2026. Requirements depend on your property, systems and applicable conditions. Follow competent advice, current official guidance and your local authority's requirements. ## In this guide - Look for patterns, not only pass totals - Changes in use can change the risk - Review with competent advice - Keep faults separate from routine dates ## Need testing for your premises? Greenford-based electrical and fire safety services across London. Get a free quote 07576 584901 ## Related guides All guides PAT testing · 2 min read ## How often should PAT testing be done? A risk-based guide Plan PAT testing frequency using equipment type, working conditions and previous results, rather than assuming one annual interval fits everything. 26 October 2026 PAT testing · 2 min read ## PAT testing records: what a useful appliance register should contain Make PAT testing records easier to use with consistent asset IDs, locations, test outcomes, defect actions and risk-based review dates. 18 October 2026 Electrical and fire safety compliance testing for businesses, property managers and landlords across London and Greenford. Read our Google reviewsLeave us a review ## Services - PAT Testing - Commercial EICR Testing - Residential EICR Testing - Emergency Lighting Testing - Fire Alarm Testing - Fire Extinguisher Servicing - Fire Door Inspection - Fire Risk Assessments - Remedial Works for Fire Compliance ## Service Areas - Greenford - Central London - All London Boroughs - West London - North London - South London - East London - Ealing - Uxbridge - Slough - Watford ## Contact - 07576 584901 - Testmasterinfo@gmail.com - Postal address669 Greenford Road, UB6 8QL - LinkedInOpening hours: 24/7 online enquiries © 2026 Test Master Ltd. All rights reserved. HomeAboutReviewsOur WorkContactPrivacy PolicyTerms & ConditionsCookie Policy Call NowFree Quote Chat on WhatsApp