10 Things To Know About Testing and Tagging Regulations in Australia

As an employer, property owner or manager, it’s your responsibility to make sure that all electrical equipment in your workplace is safe. This includes regular testing and tagging Melbourne portable electrical equipment in accordance with Australian Standard AS/NZS 3760.

But what does this involve? Here are 10 things you need to know about testing and tagging regulations in Australia:

1. What is testing and tagging?

Testing and tagging is the process of regular inspection and testing of portable electrical equipment (such as power tools, extension leads and computers) to ensure it is safe to use. Equipment that fails the safety test must be repaired or replaced before it can be used again.

2. Who needs to test and tag their electrical equipment?

In Australia, any business or organisation that uses portable electrical equipment must have a testing and tagging program in place. This includes all types of businesses, from office workplaces to construction sites, retail outlets to warehouses.

3. What types of electrical equipment need to be tested and tagged?

Any type of portable electrical equipment that has a plug fitted (whether it’s a standard 10amp or 15amp plug) needs to be included in your testing and tagging program. This includes power tools, extension leads, computer equipment, kitchen appliances and power boards.

4. How often does electrical equipment need to be tested and tagged?

The frequency of testing will depend on the environment in which the equipment is used. For example, equipment that’s used in a dry, clean office environment may only need to be tested once every 12 months. However, equipment that’s used in a more demanding environment (such as a construction site or factory) may need to be tested more frequently – up to every 3 months.

5. Who can test and tag electrical equipment?

Testing and tagging must be carried out by a qualified person who has been trained in accordance with Australian Standard AS/NZS 3760. This person must also have the appropriate testing equipment to carry out the tests safely.

6. What does the testing process involve?

The first step of the testing process is a visual inspection of the equipment. This is to check for any obvious signs of damage that could make the equipment unsafe to use.

If no damage is found, the qualified person will then carry out an insulation resistance test. This test measures the electrical resistance of the equipment’s insulation and ensures that it’s still in good condition.

The final step is an earth continuity test. This test checks for any faults in the equipment’s earth connection and ensures that it will safely conduct electricity in the event of a fault.

7. What does the tagging process involve?

Once the testing is complete, the qualified person will attach a tag to each piece of equipment that has been tested. The tag must include the following information:

• The date of the test

• The name or initials of the person who carried out the test

• The next due date for testing (this will depend on the environment in which the equipment is used)

8. What happens if a piece of electrical equipment fails the safety tests?

If a piece of electrical equipment fails one or more of the safety tests, it must be repaired or replaced before it can be used again. The qualified person who carried out the tests will advise you on what needs to be done.

9. How much does it cost to test and tag electrical equipment?

The cost of testing and tagging will vary depending on the number and type of items that need to be tested, as well as the frequency of testing. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay around $5-$10 per item.

10. Do I need to keep records of my testing and tagging program?

Yes – you must keep records of all tests that are carried out, as well as any repairs or replacements that are made. These records must be kept for at least 2 years.

If you have any further questions about testing and tagging, or you’re not sure if your business needs a program in place, please contact us at ETCS and we'll be happy to help you.