Encouraging Safety, Dispelling Ignorance

We are sometimes asked about appliances which are owned by workers and whether employers need to ensure they are PAT tested prior to allowing them free use in the workplace.

This is an interesting question and is one that many business owners find difficult to answer either way. They are unsure whether they themselves are responsible for the appliances which are brought in by workers and if these items fall under their responsibility whilst on business premises.

In fact, all employers should ensure that any items brought to their premises by workers are safe for use and won’t endanger people in the building. By performing a PAT test on these items, employers can be certain that employee owned appliances are safe for use at work.

However, many employers remain ignorant of this, and assume that as the appliances don’t belong to the workplace or building, they don’t have to consider their safety.

If, when you are taking on contracts, you ensure that employers are aware of this and advise them how they can inform their staff of best practices, they can then proceed to be vigilant and ensure that no one is able to use an unsafe appliance and put the whole building at risk during office hours.

If you remain helpful and continue to provide good information and reassurance, you will, not only be helping businesses stay safe, but encouraging a good working relationship for yourself and the business owner, which may encourage future PAT contracts with them.

Written by Sara Thomson