🔥 Fact Friday: Over 12,000 Fires in the UK Are Caused by Electrical Faults Every Year

🔥 Fact Friday: Over 12,000 Fires in the UK Are Caused by Electrical Faults Every Year

Electrical faults are a leading cause of fires in UK homes and businesses. According to the Home Office, over 12,000 fires each year stem from electrical problems — many of which are caused by faulty or poorly maintained portable appliances.

That’s more than 30 fires a day — most of them entirely preventable with regular checks.

Real-World Examples: How Small Faults Become Big Problems

A hair salon in Leeds lost its entire premises after a faulty hairdryer overheated overnight. The device hadn’t been tested in over two years.

An office in Birmingham experienced an electrical fire due to a damaged laptop charger. Routine PAT testing had been skipped due to budget cuts.

A construction site in Glasgow faced downtime after an untested extension lead caused a short circuit and small explosion. No one was hurt, but it cost the contractor thousands in delays.

These stories highlight a key truth: portable appliances, though small, can pose big risks when left untested or ignored.

PAT Testing and the Law: What Are Your Responsibilities?

PAT Testing isn’t legally mandated by name—but it is the most recognized method of fulfilling your legal duties under UK health and safety laws. The following regulations apply:

⚖️ The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

Requires that all electrical equipment that could cause injury is maintained in a safe condition. This includes everything from kettles and heaters to extension leads and drills.

🧯 The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

Places a duty on employers to ensure the safety of employees and the public. This extends to the condition and safety of electrical appliances in the workplace.

📚 Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

States that work equipment must be suitable for its intended use, maintained in a safe condition, and inspected regularly.

What Is PAT Testing?

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) involves both visual inspections and electrical testing of portable equipment to ensure it’s safe to use. Items typically tested include:

Computers, monitors, and printers

Kettles, microwaves, and toasters

Extension leads and chargers

Power tools and site equipment

Testing is especially important in environments where equipment is frequently moved, used by multiple people, or subject to wear and tear.

How Often Should You PAT Test?

The frequency of PAT testing depends on the type of equipment and the environment. For example:

Offices – low-risk items may only need testing every 2–4 years, but should be visually inspected more frequently.

Workshops or construction sites – high-risk environments may require testing every 3–6 months.

Public spaces (e.g. schools, cafes) – regular testing is critical due to high usage and foot traffic.

✅ Keep Your Business Safe & Compliant

Regular PAT testing:

Reduces fire risk

Helps you meet legal safety obligations

Avoids costly downtime or equipment failures

Shows due diligence in case of insurance or legal claims

📞 Get a Free PAT Testing Quote Today

Let us help you protect your staff, customers, and property. Our certified PAT testers provide:

✅ Fast, on-site testing with minimal disruption
✅ Clear reports and asset logs for compliance
✅ Pass/fail labelling for every item
✅ No-obligation quotes tailored to your business

Don't take chances. Contact us today to schedule your next PAT test and keep your business safe from preventable electrical hazards.