An exciting opportunity to reduce electrical waste by safety testing donated electrical appliances in our reuse shops.
Information:
PAT tester volunteer roles are available at the following reuse shops:
- Harpenden
- Stevenage
- Ware
- Waterdale (near Watford),
- Welwyn Garden City.
What will I be doing?
As a volunteer, you’ll be helping to give electrical appliances a second life by carrying out portable appliance testing (PAT) on items brought into the reuse shop. Your main tasks will include:
- selecting electricals to PAT test
- performing a PAT test
- recording the results of the PAT test
- checking if the item has had a product recall
- carrying out a function test as appropriate.
What does PAT testing involve?
- Visually checking for signs of damage (e.g. frayed cables, cracked plugs, incorrect fuses).
- Using a portable appliance tester to assess electrical safety
- Doing a basic function test
- Labelling appliances with a pass sticker once they’ve met the safety requirements.
What skills or experience do I need?
Experience of PAT testing would be an advantage but is not essential as training will be given. All you really need is:
- a keen eye for detail
- confidence following clear procedures and safety checklists
- the will to learn how to log results on a computer (we'll show you how)
- the ability to work independently but also enjoy being part of a friendly team environment.
You must be 18 or over with a valid form of ID, like a passport or driving licence.
How much time do I need to give?
- Aim for around 3 hours per week though you're welcome to do more.
- We ask for a minimum commitment of 3 months so the training and support we give you can really pay off.
- Our shops are open five days a week, from 10am to 5.45pm (opening days vary - check your local reuse shop for details).
Where will I be located?
We have five reuse shops across the county - Harpenden, Stevenage, Ware, Waterdale (near Watford) and Welwyn Garden City - so whichever is convenient to you and has a vacancy.
What support will I be given?
- Appropriate training on PAT testing procedures
- All necessary PPE (personal protective equipment) and tools for the role
- A full induction to help you settle in
- A named supervisor to guide and support you
- Ongoing guidance and any additional training needed.
What will I gain from the role?
Volunteering with us is a chance to:
- Learn new skills and build confidence
- Develop personally and achieve something meaningful
- Gain practical experience that could support career goals
- Meet like-minded people and be part of a supportive team
- Contribute to your local community by keeping useful items in circulation and out of the waste stream.
"I enjoy volunteering because it’s practical and you never know what (sometimes unusual) items are coming in next! Plus, I get to make a real impact on the huge problem of electronic waste whilst also providing a valuable contribution to the community."
Will I receive expenses?
We will pay reasonable travelling expenses if you need to travel to the training course because it is further away than the shop you have chosen to volunteer in.
Is there anything else I need to know?
- All potential volunteers will be interviewed and will need to provide valid ID such as driving licence, passport, etc.
- We sell the PAT tested electricals at competitive prices in our reuse shops or we donate them to local community groups.
- Our mission is to reduce electrical waste.
How do I find out more?
Register your interest or contact: