Please note that this blog was originally published on the 2nd October 2016. It was updated on the 9th December 2024.

On the left is an out-of-focus close-up image of lights on a Christmas tree. On the right, large, green text on a pale grey background reads "Should I PAT Test Christmas Lights?". Three lines of small green, red and cream dots down the middle of the banner separate the photo and the text.

Christmas lights brighten up our workplaces and homes; so, please don’t miss out on bringing festive cheer to your workspace for fear that your Christmas lights may be unsafe.

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Should I PAT Test Christmas Lights?

Man stood in front of a Christmas tree holding tangled Christmas lights and looking confused.

Christmas lights, which seem to be designed to tangle themselves into unfathomable knots, are something we all look forward to putting up in December. However, many firms decide not to use Christmas lights (to the ire of the poor person who has just spent the last 2 hours, 53 minutes, and 27 seconds detangling the things) because they are unsure as to whether the lights are safe.

An easy way to solve this problem is to PAT test your Christmas lights before you put them up. Admittedly, there isn't a law requiring that you PAT test your Christmas lights annually, except in circumstances where they may be subjected to extreme stress such as those used in harsh outdoor/industrial settings. However, it is widely considered best practice to test them every year or, at minimum, every two to five years. For more information regarding PAT testing best practices, please consult the IET Code of Practice for Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment.

Buy the IET Code of Practice: Inspection & Testing of Electrical Equipment - 5th Edition

In line with best practice, we highly recommend that you PAT test your Christmas lights every year especially if they have been in storage or you plan to decorate outside spaces. Don't panic! This doesn't mean you need to fork out for a professional electrician to test a few lights. PAT testing does not have to be expensive; it can be done in-house.

PASS Ltd has developed a one-day PAT Testing Competency Course aimed at complete beginners. Ideal for landlords, caretakers, office workers, retail staff, and anyone else using portable appliances in the workplace or at home, our PAT Testing Competency Course is available nationwide. Over a single morning and afternoon, the classes cover:

  • An overview of PAT testing
  • Why PAT testing is important
  • PAT testing requirements
  • Obligations of businesses/contractors
  • IET Code of Practice
  • Basic electrical theory
  • Using PAT testers (practical session)

At the end of the course, you'll be asked to take a multiple-choice, open-book exam. Once you have passed the exam, you'll receive a Certificate of Competency in PAT Testing.

Sign Up for a PAT Testing Competency Course

In addition to this, PASS Ltd offers a range of simple-to-use, convenient, and economical PAT Testers including models by Kewtech, Martindale, Seaward, and UNI-T. Once you've received your Certificate of Competency, please speak to our Sales team and we'll help you find the PAT tester that's right for you. You can contact our Sales team on 01642 931 329 or via our online form.

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What is a Visual Inspection?

We advocate PAT testing your Christmas lights annually. However, if you don't have the time, equipment, or means to carry out a yearly PAT test, we strongly suggest that, as a bare minimum, you subject your Christmas lights to a comprehensive visual inspection. As part of a thorough visual check, look for any obvious signs of damage to the cable, the plug, and the lights. If anything seems amiss, either don't put the lights up, or use a PAT tester to verify their safety before you deck your office out to look like Santa’s Grotto.

How to Carry Out a Visual Inspection

Infographic with a black background the images and text are in white. Top Section from left to right: Image of a Christmas lightbulb, underneath the text reads '1. PAT test your first set of lights or any new sets you purchase to ensure they are safe from the start, this will give you peace of mind, and the chance to carry out any preventative actions should they fail (eg returning or replacing them). Image of a wire, underneath the text reads '2. Every year, visually your lights, this involves paying close attention to the cable, trace down it with your fingers and look closely for any signs of damage, bumps or rough areas. Uncover any areas that maybe covered by a sticker or warning label.' Bottom section from left to right: Image of a plug, underneath the text reads '3. Next inspect the mains plug, has it got any cracks? If the plug is not fully moulded, you may be able to open it and inspect the wires, are they discoloured? Are the connections secure? Has the fuse got the correct rating for the item?' Image of a Christmas tress, underneath the text reads '4. If anything doesn't seem right, perform a PAT test either yourself or by a professional. If all is good to go, hang your lights and get into the festive spirit! Just remember to do this each year and retest every 3-5 years to ensure they are still safe.'

So, Should I PAT Test Christmas Lights?

I know, I know, you've asked three times now. Well, the answer to whether you should PAT test Christmas lights is yes and no. There is no legal obligation for you to PAT test indoor lights (though it is a legal requirement to PAT test ones likely to undergo extreme stress, e.g. lights used to decorate outside spaces); however, we ardently endorse PAT testing your Christmas lights every year. This complies with best practices and provides a reliable method of ensuring your lights are safe, thereby protecting yourself, your colleagues, your tenants, and/or your family from potential hazards resulting from ill-functioning lights.

Now go inspect; PAT test your lights; and get them up. We insist and Christmas 2024 demands it!!

Further Information

For further information regarding PAT testing, PAT testers, or our training courses, please do not hesitate to contact our Sales team on 01642 931 329 or via our online form.

In the meantime, please browse our extensive range of PAT testers, PAT testing kits, and PAT testing courses.

IET Code of Practice: Inspection & Testing of Electrical Equipment - 5th Edition

PAT Testing Competency Course

PAT Testers