No, PAT testing is not compulsory.
In April 2012 the HSE revised its guidance on 'Maintaining portable electric equipment in low risk environments'. and recommend that employers should take a risk-based approach, considering the type of equipment and what it is being used for. If it is used regularly and moved a lot e.g. a floor cleaner or a kettle, testing (along with visual checks) can be an important part of an effective maintenance regime giving employers confidence that they are doing what is necessary to help them meet their legal duties.
In addition to "safe to use" test, these are things you should consider when assessing risk:
- Is the equipment being used correctly,
- Is it suitable for the job, and
- is it being used in a harsh environment
