What Are PAT Testing Labels?
PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) labels are applied to electrical equipment after inspection and testing to show that the appliance has been checked and is safe to use. While PAT testing itself is not a strict legal requirement, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require employers to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition — and PAT labels provide visible evidence of compliance.
Information on PAT Labels
- PASS or FAIL: Clear indication of test result
- Date tested: When the test was performed
- Next test due: When retesting is required
- Tester name or ID: Who performed the test
- Appliance ID: Asset number or barcode for tracking
Colour Coding
Many organisations use annual colour coding so that untested equipment is visually obvious. Common systems rotate through colours yearly — e.g. green for 2025, blue for 2026, red for 2027. This allows facilities managers to spot overdue equipment at a glance.
Materials
PAT labels must survive on equipment that is handled, cleaned, moved, and used in various environments. Requirements:
- Durable: Must remain legible for 12-48 months between tests
- Tamper-evident: Should show if removed or tampered with
- Chemical-resistant: Must survive cleaning products and solvents
- Permanent adhesive: Must not peel from plastic, metal, or painted surfaces
Standard Sizes
- Small equipment (kettles, monitors): 40mm x 20mm or 50mm x 25mm
- Large equipment (heaters, machines): 75mm x 35mm
- Cable wraps: 60mm x 15mm self-laminating
Ordering
StickerNation prints custom PAT labels on durable vinyl with permanent adhesive. Order in bulk with writable fields for date and tester information, or design fully custom labels for your organisation. No minimum order.