The responsibility for portable appliance testing (PAT) on hired tools and equipment is shared between the hire company and the hirer, but the extent of each party's obligations depends on the equipment type, how it will be used, and the relevant health and safety regulations.
What Is PAT Testing and Why It Matters
Portable appliance testing is the process of inspecting and testing electrical equipment to ensure it is safe to use. PAT testing checks for faults that could cause electric shock, burns, or fire. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires that all electrical equipment used in a workplace is maintained in a safe condition. This includes hired tools and equipment.
PAT testing is not a one-time event but part of an ongoing maintenance and inspection regime. Equipment must be visually inspected before each use, and formal testing must be carried out at intervals appropriate to the equipment type and the environment in which it is used.
The Hire Company's Responsibility
When a company hires out electrical tools or equipment, it has a legal duty under the HSE's guidance to ensure that equipment is safe when it leaves the hire depot. This means:
- The equipment must have been properly tested and certified before it is hired out
- Records of PAT testing must be available and the equipment must not be overdue for re-testing
- Any visible damage or defects should have been repaired or the equipment should not be hired out
- The hire company should provide clear information about when the next PAT test is due
Responsible hire companies maintain detailed testing records and issue equipment with a PAT test label or certificate showing the date of the last test and the next date due. Before hiring any tool or piece of equipment, the hirer should ask to see this documentation and check that the equipment has not exceeded its testing interval.
The Hirer's Responsibility
The person or organisation hiring the equipment also has responsibilities. Under HSE guidance, the hirer must:
- Carry out a visual inspection before using the equipment on site
- Check for obvious damage, worn cables, loose plugs, or signs of water ingress
- Arrange for formal PAT testing if the equipment will be in use beyond the next test date
- Keep records of inspections and any testing carried out during the hire period
- Report any defects to the hire company immediately
If a tool is hired for a short-term project and the PAT test will not expire during the hire period, the hirer does not need to arrange additional testing. However, if the hire extends beyond the test date, the hirer is responsible for ensuring testing is arranged before the equipment continues in use.
Practical Checklist for Hiring Electrical Equipment
Before taking delivery of any hired electrical tool or equipment, use this checklist:
- Request the PAT test certificate or label from the hire company
- Check the test date and the "next test due" date
- Calculate whether the next test date falls within your hire period
- If it does, confirm with the hire company whether they will re-test before collection or whether you will need to arrange testing
- Inspect the equipment visually for damage, worn cords, or loose connections
- Check that the plug is intact and the cable insulation is not cracked or worn
- Test the equipment in a safe environment before taking it to the work site
- Keep the PAT certificate with the equipment throughout the hire period
- Document any visual inspections you carry out on site
Different Rules for Different Equipment
PAT testing requirements can vary. Some types of equipment, such as double-insulated power tools, may be lower risk than others. Some hire companies offer longer testing intervals for equipment used in low-risk environments. The key is to discuss the specific use case with the hire company and agree on testing responsibility in writing before the equipment is collected.
If the equipment will be used in a damp environment, on a building site, or by multiple users, the hire company should confirm that it is suitable for that use and that testing intervals are appropriate.
What Happens If There's an Accident
If someone is injured by faulty equipment and it emerges that PAT testing was not up to date, or that obvious defects were missed, both the hire company and the hirer could face legal liability. The HSE investigates workplace electrical accidents, and failure to maintain equipment or to carry out required testing can result in enforcement action. This is why documentation and clear communication between hire company and hirer are essential.
When searching for tools and equipment hire, use GetBrent.co.uk to find local hire companies in your area. Reputable tool hire providers will be transparent about their PAT testing practices and will provide clear documentation with every hire. If you're in the north London area, tool hire in Enfield and tool hire in Harrow are available through the directory, as are services across London. Ask any hire company about their testing regime before booking, and confirm the next test date in writing.
