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| Gym Wizard -
Pat testing - Portable
Appliance Testing |
Pat testing or portable
appliance testing is an important part of any health
& safety policy.
The Health & Safety Executive states that 25% of all
reportable electrical accidents involve portable
appliances. The Electricity at Work Regulations
place a legal responsibility on employers, employees
and self-employed persons to comply with the
provisions of the regulations and take reasonably
practicable steps to ensure that no danger results
from the use of such equipment. This in effect
requires the implementation of a systematic and
regular program of maintenance, inspection and
testing. The Health & Safety at Work Act (1974)
places such an obligation in the following
circumstances:
1. Where appliances are used by employees.
2. Where the public may use appliances in
establishments such as hospitals, schools, hotels,
shops etc. (This includes Gyms and health clubs)
3. Where appliances are supplied or hired.
4. Where appliances are repaired or serviced.
The level of inspection and testing required is
dependant upon the risk of the appliance becoming
faulty, which is in turn dependant upon the type of
appliance, the nature of its use and the environment
in which it is used. In the case of gym equipment,
usually C.V. equipment such as treadmills, cross
trainers etc., the testing requirement is 12 months.
The Law
All businesses are required to regularly test their
portable equipment under the following legislation:
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 puts a duty
of care on both the employer and employee to ensure
the safety of all persons using the work premises.
The Management of Health and Safety at Work
Regulations 1999 states that 'Every employer shall
make a suitable and sufficient assessment of:
(a) the risks to the health and safety of his
employees to which they are exposed whilst they are
at work, and
(b) the risks to the health and safety of persons
not in his employment arising out of or in
connection with the conduct by him of his
undertaking'
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations
1998 states that 'Every employer shall ensure that
work equipment is maintained in an efficient state,
in efficient working order and in good repair'.
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 states 'As
may be necessary to prevent danger, all systems
shall be maintained as to prevent, so far as
reasonably practicable, such danger'.
If you require further information about Portable
Appliance Testing, you can visit the Health and
Safety Executive (HSE) website:
http://www.hse.gov.uk |
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