Christmas PAT Testing Checklist for Businesses

Christmas PAT Testing Checklist

The Christmas period brings additional electrical safety risks to workplaces across the UK. Fairy lights, decorative displays, portable heaters for cold offices, and seasonal kitchen equipment all need to be checked before use. Here is our essential Christmas PAT testing checklist for businesses.

Fairy Lights and Decorations

Fairy lights are one of the most common causes of electrical fires during the festive season. Before putting up any lights in your workplace:

• Check all cables for damage, fraying, or exposed wires
• Ensure all bulbs are working and the correct type for the set
• Check that indoor lights are not being used outdoors
• Do not daisy-chain multiple sets of lights together
• Switch off all decorative lighting overnight and when the building is unoccupied
• Replace any sets that are more than a few years old — LED sets are far safer than older incandescent types

Portable Heaters

As temperatures drop, employees often bring in portable heaters or dig out heaters from storage cupboards. Before any portable heater is used:

• Have it PAT tested — heaters stored since last winter may have developed faults
• Check the cable and plug for damage
• Do not place heaters near curtains, paper, or other flammable materials
• Never use heaters to dry clothing
• Ensure heaters are on a stable surface where they cannot be knocked over

Kitchen Equipment

Christmas parties and increased kitchen use mean extra load on appliances. Check toasters, kettles, microwaves, and any catering equipment that might be brought in for festive events.

Extension Leads

Christmas decorations and events often require additional sockets. Avoid overloading extension leads, do not daisy-chain them, and ensure any extension leads in use have been recently tested.

Book a Pre-Christmas PAT Test

Get your workplace tested before the festive season. Contact Green Tag PAT for a quick pre-Christmas PAT test across Greater Manchester and Northwest England.