CHRISTMAS. A dreaded word for some, I know, but it will soon be time to dig out the decorations and make our homes, and workplaces festive! It is really important, however, to make sure that the decorations we use, particularly Christmas lights, are safe. The best way to do this, is to carry out a PAT test.

As an employer, you can allow your employees to make the workplace festive, but exactly how safe are your lights

There is not a definite legal requirement to carry out PAT tests, but the duty holder must ensure the safety of all the persons using their premises.

If you are using last years’ Christmas lights, especially if they have been used in previous years to that, you should always check them over first! Look for things like cuts or fraying of the wire. Check to make sure that all the bulbs are unbroken and undamaged.

If you find any issues with your lights, you should arrange to have them PAT tested. You can get other light decorations, extension leads, and any of festive decorations that could pose a risk tested too.

As well as PAT testing it is advisable to follow these safety precautions:

–          Always switch off the lights when leaving the building

–          Overloaded plugs often lead to fires; use an adapter if you want to put more than one plug into a socket

–          Do not let anybody play with the lights; especially children

–          If lights are designed for internal use, never put them outside

The last thing you want for Christmas is casualties due to faulty lights!