One of the most common PAT testing myths is that every office computer must be tested every year. HSE guidance specifically challenges this idea for low-risk environments.
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Are annual PAT tests required for office IT?
No. The law requires electrical equipment to be maintained so that it does not present danger, but it does not prescribe an annual PAT test for every office appliance.
Why are desktop computers often lower risk?
Desktop computers, monitors and similar equipment are often kept in a dry indoor environment and moved relatively infrequently. That usually gives them a different risk profile from portable tools, cleaning equipment or equipment used in wet, dusty or industrial conditions.
What should offices still check?
- Damage to plugs and flexible leads
- Cables trapped under furniture or damaged by floor boxes
- Loose or damaged extension leads
- Equipment that has been dropped or moved
- Unauthorised heaters, kettles or other appliances brought into the workplace
What does HSE suggest?
HSE guidance for low-risk workplaces gives examples showing that some office IT can have relatively long formal inspection intervals and, where double insulated, may not need combined inspection and testing at all. These are starting points rather than fixed legal deadlines.
What about office kitchens and cleaning equipment?
Kettles, portable heaters, vacuum cleaners and similar equipment are often handled more frequently than desktop IT. They may therefore justify more frequent checks or formal inspection.
Read our PAT testing for offices page for a practical workplace approach.
Laptop chargers and extension leads
Office IT does not consist only of desktop computers. Power supplies, laptop chargers and extension leads are frequently handled and can suffer damage around plugs, cable entries and connectors. These accessories should be considered separately when deciding an appropriate inspection regime.
Official HSE guidance
See HSE’s guidance on work using electrically powered equipment and its PAT FAQ.
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