PAT Testing for Dog Groomers: What You Need to Know

If you’re a dog groomer, you’ll know how important it is to keep your workspace safe — for you, your clients, and their dogs. One area that’s often overlooked is Portable Appliance Testing (PAT), which helps ensure that all electrical equipment is safe to use.

Whether you’re grooming from a shed in your garden, a mobile van, or a busy high-street salon, understanding PAT testing could save you from potential accidents, costly downtime, or even legal trouble.

Electrical safety starts with good habits — every plug, lead, and tool plays a role in your grooming safety.

What is PAT Testing for Dog Groomers?

PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is a process that checks the safety of electrical appliances to make sure they’re fit for use. It involves both visual inspections and electrical tests to identify faults such as damaged cables, loose plugs, or poor insulation.

The purpose is simple: to prevent electric shocks, fires, and injuries caused by faulty equipment.

Common Grooming Equipment That Requires PAT Testing

As a professional dog groomer, you use several electrical tools and appliances daily — all of which should be regularly checked. Here’s what you should include in your PAT testing checklist:

• Clippers and trimmers – used every day and often exposed to hair, moisture, and oils.

• Dryers and blasters – high-powered machines that should be tested regularly due to heat and vibration.

• Sterilisers and ultrasonic cleaners – used for cleaning tools; check for moisture damage.

• Clipping tables with motors or electrics – any height-adjustable or heated tables must be PAT tested.

• Lamps, extension leads, and chargers – even smaller items can be potential hazards.

• Kettles, fans, heaters, or radios – if it plugs into the wall, it needs checking.

Even though not every item will need testing annually, a visual inspection before each use should be part of your routine — especially for clippers and dryers.

PAT testing gives peace of mind — a small annual check to ensure your electrical equipment is safe and compliant.

The Law: Do Dog Groomers Legally Need PAT Testing?

PAT testing itself isn’t a legal requirement, but keeping electrical equipment safe and maintained is required by law.

Here’s what the law says:

Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, all employers (and self-employed individuals) must ensure that electrical systems and equipment are maintained to prevent danger.

That means if you’re running a business — even from your garden shed — you have a legal duty of care to make sure your equipment is safe.

Let’s break it down 👇

Groomers Working From Home or a Shed

If you groom dogs from a shed, garage, or converted building at home:

• You are classed as self-employed and still responsible for electrical safety.

• You don’t have to PAT test by law, but it’s strongly recommended — especially if clients visit your premises.

• Most insurance companies require proof that your electrical items are regularly inspected or PAT tested.

👉 In short: PAT testing isn’t mandatory for home groomers, but without it, you could struggle with insurance claims if an electrical fault causes injury or damage.

For commercial salons, regular PAT testing forms part of your health and safety compliance — and keeps your insurance valid.

Groomers in a Unit or High-Street Shop

If you run your grooming business from a rented unit, salon, or commercial space, PAT testing becomes more essential.

• Landlords or local councils may require annual PAT testing certificates for compliance.

• If you employ staff, PAT testing forms part of your Health and Safety obligations.

• You must keep a record of testing and inspection dates for audit or insurance purposes.

👉 In short: For commercial premises, PAT testing is effectively expected as part of your legal and professional duty.

How Often Should You PAT Test Grooming Equipment?

• High-use tools (like clippers, dryers, and blasters): every 6–12 months.

• Low-use or static equipment (like extension leads or lamps): every 2 years.

• Always perform a visual inspection before each use — look for cracked plugs, frayed cables, or exposed wires.

If it plugs in — it needs checking! Keep your grooming salon safe with regular PAT testing

Keep Records and Stay Covered

Keeping a simple PAT test log or record sheet is important. It should include:

• Date of test

• Appliance name and ID

• Result (pass/fail)

• Tester’s name and signature

If you use a professional PAT testing service, they’ll label each appliance with a dated sticker — a simple visual proof of compliance.

Final Thoughts

PAT testing might feel like just another job on your to-do list, but it’s a small step that can make a big difference to your safety, reputation, and insurance cover.

Whether you’re a one-person setup in your garden or a busy high-street salon with multiple groomers, maintaining electrical safety is part of being a responsible professional.

Your clients trust you with their pets — make sure they can trust your equipment too. ⚡🐶