A portable appliance, in general, is any item of electrical equipment that has a power lead with a plug that is intended to be connected to the mains supply.
The Electricity At Work Regulations 1989 places a responsibility on employers to ensure that all appliances used within the work environment are maintained in a safe condition. “…As may be necessary, all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, as far is reasonably practicable, such danger.” (Regulation 4:2).