Operators told not to take battery chargers onto site

The issue raised in this myth-busters case concerned a rope access company and operators use of 36v battery drills whilst on site. The majority of the time, operators recharge the batteries at home over night, however on two occasions now, operators have been told that they cannot take battery chargers onto site unless they have a PAT certificate as it is against health and safety rules.

The HSE panel decided that health and safety law does not require electrical items to be portable appliance tested (PAT). Regulations simply require that electrical equipment be maintained to prevent danger. HSE has guidance on maintaining such equipment (see here Maintaining portable electrical equipment ) which covers maintenance intervals, including for chargers. Maintenance is for the owner but operators may have their own rules to help ensure safety across their site.