The RCT Source

Yes, as follows:

• do not attempt to work on electrical installations or equipment unless you are qualified and competent to do so;
• avoid the use of extension leads and do not overload sockets by the use of multipoint adaptors;
• before using any electrical equipment, ensure that you have received any necessary training and have read and understood the operating manual;
• visually check electrical equipment for signs of damage before use, such as frayed cables or broken casings or plugs;
• report any damaged equipment to your supervisor/manager immediately;
• do not remove plugs by pulling on the cable and do not carry equipment by its cable;
• do not use electrical equipment in hazardous conditions unless adequately protected;
• do not use equipment beyond its capacity;
• check that portable/transportable equipment has an up to date PAT label.

All portable and transportable electrical equipment should be tested periodically, with the frequency of testing dependant on factors such as:

• manufacturer’s recommendations;
• frequency of use;
• the working environment in which it is used (e.g. wet, dusty, etc.);
• likelihood of damage.

However Corporate Estates have arranged for the portable appliance testing (PAT testing) of electrical equipment in Council buildings to be undertaken annually (unless circumstances require more frequent testing) by specialist contractors, who should leave a label on equipment stating when it was last tested and when the next test is due.

Check the equipment for a PAT label and contact Corporate Estates if it doesn’t have one or the re-test date is overdue. 

Testing of fixed electrical installations in Council buildings is arranged by Corporate Estates.

Check with Corporate Estates if the building you occupy has had its electrical installation tested in accordance with requirements and, if not, ask them to arrange it.

Not unless they are qualified and competent to work with electricity. 

The only inspections employees in general should carry out are visual inspections to check for obvious signs of damage, such as frayed cables or broken casings or plugs or similar.

Switch it off, remove the plug from the socket and report it to your supervisor/manager, who should take it out of use until it can be repaired by a qualified and competent person or be replaced.