A lot things have to be regulated and tested; it's something that has been required for a long time now. Electronics must pass a periodic inspection called Portable Appliance Testing, commonly called PAT testing and also a fixed wire test too. These types of regulations make sure that everything is in working order and maintain positive working functions. These tests are legislated by the government and are up to the employers and self-employed individuals to be completely sure that their electronic equipment is safe to be used. Without maintaining proper safety records for this electrical equipment, there are grave dangers and legal actions that can be taken.

Regulations involving the proper use of electronic equipment so that it is safe to be operated are a legal responsibility to an employer. Regular testing at certain intervals ensures that the devices are up to the standards put into place legally by legislation. The law states that every employer is required to maintain safe electronic equipment for employees to handle. The electrical devices must also have a clearly visible label with evidence of testing, such as a tag stating Passed or Tested for Electrical Safety. These requirements are everything that is required by law for employers to have electrical equipment used by their employees.

The actual testing process can either be done by a professional working with another company or a competent person can do the testing themselves in-house. In low-risk environments, defects in electrical equipment can usually be obviously found, like frayed wires, or water present on or near the electronics. Not all defects can be as easily found, though. It may take a professional to find out the causes of malfunctioning electronic equipment, or to find out if the equipment is in proper working order. There is a device called the PAT-805 that can be hooked up to wires to in order to test functionality. After a visual inspection to find any obvious defects, some of the other tests performed are the earth continuity, insulation resistance, and polarity of wiring. These tests ensure all electronics are in working order.

With electricity being a crucial part of life, and the inherent danger of malfunctioning electrical equipment, it is no wonder how PAT Testing and Fixed Wire Testing are mandated by the government and carry penalties if not followed. The right to have a safe workplace is something people must have and it's a great consideration that governments have enacted regulations like PAT and Fixed Wire Testing to ensure it.