PAT Testing Frequency Template (CertSuite-Ready)

Knowing when to test electrical equipment isn’t always straightforward — but this guide gives you a clear starting point. Whether you manage a single site or hundreds, this page helps you make confident, risk-based decisions and stay on top of your legal obligations.

This guidance aligns perfectly with CertSuite PAT, Megger’s cloud-based platform for automating and managing your testing.

Suggested Testing Intervals by Environment

Use these industry-based examples as a guide. Your final test intervals should always be based on a formal risk assessment.

Industry / Environment	Equipment Type	Suggested Interval	Risk Factors / Notes
Offices	IT equipment, monitors	Every 2–4 years	Low-use, low-risk equipment
Construction Sites	110V power tools	Every 3 months	High-use tools in harsh, outdoor environments
Retail Shops	POS systems, kettles	Every 1–2 years	Public-facing setups, moderate use
Charity Shops	Resale electrical goods	Before resale	Mandatory for safety and liability
Schools	Class I/II equipment	Annually or less	Varies by usage; risk increases with student interaction
Landlords	Kettles, toasters, heaters	Before new tenancy / annually	Supports tenant safety and compliance
Healthcare Clinics	Portable diagnostic devices	Every 6–12 months	High-priority due to patient risk
Event Hire Companies	Extension leads, lights	Before each hire	High turnover and transport justify frequent testing

How to Set a Risk-Based PAT Testing Schedule

A formal risk assessment is the best way to determine realistic and compliant testing intervals. This simple framework will help you get started:

Environment
Is it a low-risk setting (e.g. an office) or high-risk (e.g. construction site, hire company, or public-facing environment)?

Usage Frequency
Is the equipment used frequently? Occasionally? By trained staff or the general public?

Equipment Type
Is it Class I (earthed) or Class II (double insulated)?

History
Has the item previously failed a test or been repaired? If so, shorten the interval.

Portability
Portable items typically require more frequent testing than fixed appliances.

This approach helps you apply industry best practices while tailoring the schedule to your specific risks and responsibilities.

Make PAT Compliance Easy with CertSuite PAT

Once you’ve defined your testing frequencies, CertSuite PAT keeps everything organised, compliant, and under control — wherever you are.

Create custom test intervals by asset or location

Automate reminders for due and upcoming tests

Record full test history, including results, photos, and risk justifications

Generate branded, audit-ready reports instantly

Store everything in the cloud for secure access across teams

Whether you're a contractor, facility manager, or responsible person under UK regulations, CertSuite PAT makes portable appliance testing faster, clearer, and fully traceable.

Ready to Take Control of PAT Testing?

hether you're testing on site or managing compliance across multiple locations, Megger gives you the tools to do it right — and do it faster.

Do you need a reliable tester?
The PAT250 is a tough, all-in-one solution for professional portable appliance testing — fast, straightforward, and built to last.