We want to ensure that the electrical equipment we are using to aid us in our jobs is safe and fit for purpose.
If you don’t think your equipment is fit for purpose or you need additional equipment e.g. a second screen, please speak with your line manager. If it is unsafe, stop using it and speak with the IT team.
As an organisation any electrical equipment that is over one year old will be PAT tested within the next cycle of tests (completed yearly). This enables a thorough check of electrical equipment and is undertaken by a qualified tester.
Whilst PAT testing can help us determine if electrical equipment is safe it does not guarantee that it will continue to be safe for the next 12 months and therefore it is everyones responsibility to ensure the equipment that you are using continues to be fit for purpose. Ensure you check your equipment before each use (use the visual checks below) If you are ever in doubt regarding the safety of the electrical equipment please contact the IT team and don’t use the equipment.
Below are some checks that will help you determine if your equipment is safe to use:
- Is the plug or cable damaged? The cable should be properly secured with no visible internal wires – the cable should not show sign of deterioration. All three pins in the plug should be in tact.
- Top Tip - Don’t wrap cables too tightly – the more you wrap a cable the higher the risk that the insulation could be damaged
- Are switches and switch mechanisms all operating correctly?
- Is the equipment in a safe position? Or is it too close to water or hot surfaces?
- Is there any dirt or moisture that has got into the equipment? Remember water and electricity don’t mix and so if water has spilt onto equipment do not use it.
- Is a plug socket appropriately loaded. Do not overload plug sockets or daisy-chain extension leads.
- If there is a burning smell or a strange noise – unplug the device.
- If an appliance that is plugged into mains (e.g. laminator, lamp) is dropped there is a possibility that it could become unsafe – let the IT team know and they can help you assess if it is safe to use.