Testing & Tagging Electrical Equipment

WHAT IS TESTING AND TAGGING?

Testing and tagging is the process of checking the safety of equipment. It has two steps: portable electrical

1. Visual inspection for damage or wear
2. Electrical testing using a Portable Appliance Tester (PAT)

Once tested, the appliance is fitted with a tag confirming it has been tested,

including:

• Who tested it
• Test date
• Next due date

Regular inspections help identify damage, wear, or electrical faults before they cause harm.

WHAT EQUIPMENT NEEDS TESTING AND TAGGING?

Any device with:

• A flexible cord
• A removable plug
• Not low voltage (over 50v)

This includes extension leads, cord sets, portable RCDs, and many office or site appliances. New equipment may also require initial testing before use.

WHO CAN TEST AND TAG?

Contrary to common belief, you do not need to be an electrician.

According to AS/NZS 3760:2010, any competent person who has completed a test and tag course can perform testing. This ensures the individual has the knowledge and skills to use a PAT tester correctly and safely.

TESTING INTERVALS

The frequency of testing depends on how and where the appliance is used.

Common intervals include:

• 3 months: building, constructions, and demolition sites
• 6 months: factories, warehouses, and production areas

12 months: low risk environments where cords are unlikely to be damaged(eg., office equipment)

• 5 years: appliances and cords not exposed to flexing or abuse

Some workplaces may have site-specific requirements that exceed the minimum standards. Colours of tags and risk assessments may also vary depending on site policy.

Note: AS/NZS 3760 intervals should be considered minimum requirements.

Always follow your workplace OHS procedures.

QUICK QUIZ

1. Which types of electrical equipment would you consider high risk?
2. What procedures should you follow before using electrical equipment?
3. Do RCDs need testing in the workplace? If yes, how often?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Regular testing and tagging of electrical equipment prevents injuries and saves lives.
• All portable electrical appliances with a flexible cord and removable plug must be tested.
• Testing can be performed by a competent person, not just a licensed electrician.
• Test and tag intervals depend on the environment and risk of damage.
• Always ensure tags show who tested it, the test date, and the next due date.