How Often Should You Replace PAT Test Stickers? A Practical Guide for Businesses

Ensuring workplace safety and compliance is a legal and moral responsibility for every employer. One key component of this process is Portable Appliance Testing (PAT), a routine check that verifies the safety of electrical appliances. But once the test is completed, how do you clearly mark which items have passed? The answer lies in PAT test stickers.

These small but essential labels provide visible confirmation that an appliance has been tested and deemed safe to use. But one important question often arises: How often should you replace PAT test stickers?

PAT test stickers should be replaced after every test or when damaged, illegible, or the appliance is moved or repaired. Regular replacement ensures clear compliance with UK safety standards and avoids audit issues. Most businesses update them annually, though high-risk environments may require more frequent updates, every 3 to 6 months.

In this guide, we’ll explain how frequently PAT labels should be replaced, what UK regulations say, and how your business can stay compliant and professional with its labelling practices.

What Are PAT Test Stickers Used For?

PAT test stickers, sometimes called PAT labels, electrical safety stickers, or appliance test labels, are affixed to electrical equipment after it has undergone a PAT test. They indicate the:

• Date of the most recent test
• Appliance ID or serial number
• Re-test date
• Tester’s initials or ID
• Pass or fail status

This visual information is crucial for keeping track of which appliances are safe to use and when they are due for their next inspection. It also helps maintain clear records for internal audits and third-party inspections.

Legal Requirements: Are You Legally Required to Replace PAT Stickers Regularly?

Under UK law, there is no specific legislation that mandates the use of PAT test stickers or their frequency of replacement. However, that doesn’t mean they aren’t important.

PAT testing itself is not strictly a legal requirement, but it is one of the most effective ways to meet your duty of care under the:

• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
• Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

These regulations place responsibility on employers to ensure that electrical equipment is safe, well-maintained, and regularly inspected.

PAT stickers serve as visual confirmation of compliance and make it easy to demonstrate due diligence during safety audits.

How Often Should You Replace PAT Test Stickers?

So, how frequently should you replace these stickers? The answer largely depends on the environment, equipment usage, and testing schedule.

General Rule: After Every PAT Test

The best practice is to replace PAT stickers immediately after every test, whether it passes or fails. Each label should show updated details, including:

• The new test date
• The next scheduled test date
• Any changes to the appliance ID
• A new sticker colour or design if using a colour-coded system

This ensures that employees, health and safety officers, and auditors are working with the most accurate information available.

Frequency Depends on Appliance Risk Level

Here’s a rough guideline based on equipment type and usage:

If your organisation operates in construction, manufacturing, or hospitality, you may need more frequent testing and sticker updates.

When Else Should You Replace PAT Test Stickers?

Outside of scheduled PAT tests, you should also replace stickers if:

• The Sticker Is Damaged or Illegible- A faded, scratched, or peeling label is not useful and could result in non-compliance. Replace it immediately.
• The Appliance Changes Location or Owner- If equipment is moved to another department or site, a new sticker helps keep records accurate.
• The Appliance Is Repaired or Modified- After servicing or alterations, the appliance should be re-tested and relabelled accordingly.
• The Appliance Is Hired or Loaned- If you're providing hired equipment, replace stickers before each handover to ensure up-to-date compliance.

Best Practice for PAT Testing and Labelling

To maintain a high standard of safety and compliance, follow these best practices:

Use Clear, Durable Stickers

Opt for PAT labels made of vinyl or other durable materials, especially in high-use or outdoor environments. Paper stickers may degrade quickly.

Include Essential Information

Your PAT sticker should feature:

• Appliance ID or barcode
• Test date and re-test date
• Result: PASS or FAIL
• Tester initials or company name
• Optional: QR code linking to test records

Implement a Colour-Coded System

Use different colours for different years or test statuses. This simplifies visual tracking and reduces confusion.

Keep Digital Records

While PAT stickers are a visual tool, they should be used alongside a centralised digital log. This makes it easier to track testing dates, assign responsibility, and prepare for audits.

What Happens If You Don’t Replace PAT Stickers?

Failing to update your PAT labels can lead to:

Non-Compliance During Audits

If safety inspectors cannot confirm the test status of equipment, your business may face fines or warnings.

Misleading Employees

Outdated or incorrect stickers can mislead staff into using faulty appliances, increasing the risk of accidents.

Insurance Issues

In the event of an incident, invalid or missing PAT labels could jeopardise your insurance claim or employer liability cover.

Reputational Damage

Especially for contractors and service-based businesses, poor labelling can appear unprofessional and raise concerns among clients.

Choosing the Right PAT Test Stickers for Your Business

When selecting PAT labels, consider:

Material

• Vinyl or polyester: Weatherproof, fade-resistant, ideal for industrial or outdoor use
• Paper: More affordable but not suited for long-term or rough environments

Customisation

CDM Labels offers custom PAT test stickers that can include your:

• Company logo
• Barcode or QR code
• Unique appliance IDs
• Contact information
• Pre-Printed or Write-On

You can choose between:

• Pre-printed fields with standardised layouts
• Write-on labels for flexibility with marker pens

Final Thoughts: Don’t Leave Your PAT Labelling to Chance

Replacing your PAT test stickers regularly isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about ensuring safety, maintaining trust, and protecting your business. Use the opportunity after each PAT test to update your labels, streamline your visual inspection process, and make your compliance efforts visibly professional. Need help sourcing the right PAT test labels for your workplace? Browse our PAT label collection or request a quote today at CDM Labels.