Date: 15th January, 2025
Landlords and Businesses Urged to Prioritise Appliance Safety
Businesses and landlords supplying white goods, such as fridges, freezers, washing machines, and dishwashers, are being reminded of their legal responsibility to ensure appliances are safe. White goods, often provided as part of tenancy agreements, can pose serious fire risks if not properly maintained.
To enhance safety, the Register My Appliance system, managed by the Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances (AMDEA), offers a simple way to track and maintain appliances:
- Who Can Register: Anyone, including landlords providing appliances in rental properties.
- What’s Covered: Large white goods like fridges, tumble dryers, and ovens.
- How It Works: Add product details to the AMDEA portal, and manufacturers will contact you if safety issues or recalls arise.
- Benefits: Updates on recalls and free safety repairs.
- Where to Register: Visit registermyappliance.org.uk.
Staying Safe
White goods have the potential to cause electrical fires, to minimise the risks:
- Stop using products with safety concerns.
- Use only one plug per socket in extension leads and sockets.
- Check out the wattage for appliances in the home
- Exercise caution with second-hand appliances.
- Watch for warning signs like scorch marks, flickering lights, hot plugs, or tripping circuit breakers.
Electrical Equipment Testing (EET) – Previously known as Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)
You might be familiar with “PAT,” or Portable Appliance Testing, when it comes to electrical safety. But have you come across “EET”?
If not, you may be surprised to learn that PAT has been replaced by EET, short for Electrical Equipment Testing.
Appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and microwaves should undergo regular EET testing to ensure safety. Other key points include:
- What to Test: Any electrical equipment with a plug, such as kettles, toasters, and lamps.
- Frequency: Smaller items every two years; larger ones every four years, depending on usage.
- Compliance: Look for the “CE” mark on new appliances to verify adherence to safety standards.
- Landlord Responsibility: Landlords must test appliances provided in rental properties, while tenants are responsible for their own devices.
The Register My Appliance also offers advice on maintenance, safety, and recalls, making it an essential tool for landlords and businesses.
By taking these proactive steps, businesses and landlords can ensure safer homes and workplaces while reducing the risk of devastating electrical fires.