Posted By Peter de Salis I have been asked by a financial organisation as to what is usual for the testing & inspection of a computer data center. This is a room with a large amount of computer kit all of which is business critical. As a result it is imperative that it is tested and inspected but cannot usually be switched off. I have looked at PAT testing guidelines and established that the equipment need only be inspected every 5 years if double insulated & leads should be visually inspected & tested at least every 5 years if connected to double insulated equipment However what is the norm in such a situation and has any guidance ever been issued or papers written Your help would be appreciated

Posted By stevehaigh PAT testing is not a legal requirement but a recommendation, and pat testing computer equipment can lead to misery as you could wipe off all the memory. Take care

Posted By Jeff Manion have a basic business recovery plan - will send it direct JM

Posted By t.segaran Hi Peter, If you refer to INDG236 from the HSE, they say 4 years for IT equipment, whether Class I or Class II (double insulated). From your description, it looks like a low risk work environment. Also note that visual inspection is far more important than actual PAT Testing. I would carry out Formal Visual Inspection every two years to manage the risk of shock or fire. Make sure that you record your findings. If the equipment is replaced before the 4 years then you will be let off the PAT testing. Even if they are not, and are due to be replaced in another 1 or two years, then the risk can easily be managed just by another Formal Visual Inspection. If you want more information about the inspection process, let me know. Regards Seggy