Test and Tag
What is Test and Tag
Test and Tag is the name given to the process of checking the safety of portable electrical appliances.
It involves two parts: first visually inspecting the appliance for any damage, followed by electrically testing it with a Portable Appliance Tester.
Once tested, the item is placed with a tag to confirm that it has in fact been tested, along with showing who tested it, the test date and when the next test is due.
The primary reason behind doing testing and tagging is to ensure the safety of the people in the workplace coming into contact with the appliance, while also minimising the risk of an electrical hazard.
The AS/NZS 3760 is the Australian Standard that provides guidelines and regulations for the test and tag industry with regards to electrical safety of appliances. It sets out recommendations to issues such as test and tag intervals, defines who can test and tag and general guidelines.
Who needs to test and tag?
Industries such as construction, demolition and mining are required to have their appliances tested and tagged every 3 months. This is because of the harsh nature of the industry which is likely to damage equipment at a faster rate. The test and tag colours may change for different periods throughout the year, which effectively make certain times of the year coincide with a specific test tag colour.
With the exception of these industries, testing and tagging is not a legislative requirement for other workplaces. However, the employer does have a duty of care to ensure the safety of its employees, meaning that if someone was hurt from an appliance that wasn’t tested and unsafe, they could be found liable. Because of this, it’s the employer’s responsibility to have all portable electrical appliances tested.
Who can test and tag electrical equipment?
There is a common misconception that you must be an electrician to test and tag. However, according to AS/NZS 3760:2010, someone who is considered a ‘Competent Person’ is also able to test and tag in Australia. This is achieved by undertaking a test and tag course, where that person acquires the knowledge and skills in learning to use a PAT tester.
For people living in QLD who want to offer test and tag as a service, they must fulfill an additional requirement for a Restricted Electrical Contractors Licence.
What type of equipment is tested and tagged?
In short, any device that has a flexible cable, a removable plug and is not low voltage (not exceeding 50V). This includes extension leads, cord sets and portable RCD’s.
Generally, electrical appliances can be classed as either:
Class I – this is an earthed appliance i.e. kettles, irons and toasters
Class II – double insulated appliances, which are usually identified with a symbol (a square within a square) or with the words ‘Double Insulated’ i.e. most electric drills and hair dryers
It's worth mentioning that new equipment doesn't need to be tested - just visually inspected and tagged.
How often should appliances be tested and tagged?
The Australian Standards recommend particular test and tag frequencies based on the type of environment the appliance resides in. This is shown in the AS 3760 Standard via 'Table 4' which explains the minimum requirement. Sometimes, this might differ depending on a workplaces individual risk assessment.
If you would like more information on the test and tag industry, test and tag equipment or perhaps had a question relating to the Australian Standards, please don't hesitate to contact us.
