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Free PAT Testing Certificate Template

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What is a PAT testing certificate? What to include FAQ

At a Glance

  • PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing — a UK electrical safety inspection
  • Records whether each appliance passed or failed visual and electrical tests
  • Required in practice to comply with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
  • Testing frequency depends on equipment type and environment, not a fixed schedule
  • Failed appliances must be removed from service immediately and labelled

What is a PAT testing certificate?

A PAT testing certificate is a document that records the results of portable appliance testing carried out on electrical equipment. It confirms which appliances were tested, whether they passed or failed, and the date of the next recommended test. It’s the standard proof that a business or landlord has met their electrical safety obligations.

PAT testing is routine across UK workplaces, rental properties, and public venues. Electricians and PAT testing engineers carry out the inspections, which involve a visual check and electrical tests using a dedicated PAT tester. The certificate serves as the formal record of their findings.

While the law doesn’t prescribe PAT testing by name, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require that electrical equipment is maintained in a safe condition. A PAT testing certificate is the accepted way to prove compliance.

What should a PAT testing certificate include?

A complete PAT testing certificate covers:

  • Tester Details: Name, qualifications, and company of the person carrying out the testing
  • Client Details: The business or property owner’s name, address, and site location
  • Test Date: The date testing was carried out and the recommended retest date
  • Equipment Register: A list of every appliance tested, including a description, asset ID or barcode, and location
  • Test Results: For each appliance: visual inspection result, earth continuity, insulation resistance, and overall pass/fail status
  • Instruments Used: The make, model, and calibration date of the PAT tester used
  • Signature: The tester’s signature confirming the accuracy of the results

Last updated: March 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PAT testing?

PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to check they are safe to use. It involves a visual inspection and, where appropriate, electrical tests using a PAT tester. It's standard practice in UK workplaces.

Who needs PAT testing?

Any business or landlord with electrical appliances used by employees, tenants, or the public should have them PAT tested. This includes offices, shops, rental properties, construction sites, schools, and hospitality venues. Self-employed people working from home are generally exempt.

How often should PAT testing be done?

There is no fixed legal frequency. The IET Code of Practice recommends intervals based on the type of equipment and environment: IT equipment in an office might be tested every 4 years, while construction site tools should be tested every 3 months. Risk assessment determines the schedule.

Is PAT testing a legal requirement?

PAT testing itself is not explicitly required by law. However, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require that all electrical systems and equipment are maintained to prevent danger. PAT testing is the most widely accepted way to demonstrate compliance.

What happens if an appliance fails PAT testing?

A failed appliance must be taken out of service immediately. It should be labelled as failed, unplugged, and either repaired and retested or disposed of. The failure must be recorded on the PAT testing certificate or register.

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