Electrical testing of medical devices: where PAT testing is not enough

Veterinary practices use a number of different types of medical devices, from operating tables to electrosurgical units and infusion pumps. These devices are connected to the animal by a variety of cables, tubes or transducers. We know that electrical safety testing is a requirement under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and, for the most part, this is addressed through portable appliance testing (PAT). PAT is designed to check the safety of domestic and office equipment (eg, kettles, laptops and so on), where there is minimal connection. However, with medical equipment, we are making deliberate connections to the animal. As such, specific, more complex electrical safety testing is required. This article explores the requirements and what the additional tests are used for.