Essential for Safety and Compliance
In Australia, compliance with test and tagging regulations is legally required in many workplaces. Failure to comply can lead to fines, legal action, and in some cases, even closure of the business. Compliance demonstrates a commitment to legal responsibilities and workplace safety
The electrical test and tag process is governed by the AS/NZS 3760 standard in Australia, which ensures the electrical safety of portable appliances in workplaces. This standard provides guidelines for inspection, testing specifications, record keeping, and other general guidelines. It extends to all equipment or appliances brought into the workplace, such as battery chargers, laptop chargers, electric drills, etc. Compliance with this standard is critical as both the employer and the person who provided the appliance may be liable if the equipment is not safe and causes an accident
| ► Compliance with OH&S Regulations: Ensuring your business adheres to mandatory safety standards to avoid legal penalties. |
| ► Safety Assurance: Prioritizing the safety of your staff and customers through rigorous equipment testing. |
| ► Professional Service: Guarantee of service performed by highly qualified professionals. |
| ► Regular Scheduling: Providing detailed reports and reminders for subsequent testing intervals. |
Test and Tag Frequency Recommendations
For the most common environments, we recommend the following frequencies:
- 3 Months: For environments like building, construction, and demolition.
- 6 Months: Suitable for factories, warehouses, and production areas.
- 12 Months: Recommended for settings where equipment and cords are subject to regular movement or stress.
- 5 Years: For locations where equipment and cords are less likely to be disturbed.
Variety of Devices Undergoing Our Expert Electrical Test and Tag Service
Adherence to AS/NZS 3760 Standards
Just as important, the AS/NZS 3760 standard should be seen as a minimum requirement. A lot of workplaces will have different test and tag frequencies because of their own risk management and OHS planning. Likewise, some of these industries might require you to use certain Test and Tag Colours.
For construction or demolition, you are required to use specified test tag colours.
If you don’t work in those industries, we generally supply and provide white coloured labels.
What items should be tested in my workplace?
Typically any electrical item that has a power lead that is plugged into a power point needs to be inspected, tested and tagged on a regular basis.
For some types of equipment or electrical items, the frequency of testing is more often where there is a higher safety risk or where there is likely to be greater use and wear. For example, a tradesman or a carpenter has a higher risk factor and needs to have their electrical equipment tested more often than a computer in a standard office.
There are some types of items and equipment like “hard wired” electrical fittings that do not need to be tested and tagged.
What areas of my workplace do I need to test and tag to remain OHS/WHS compliant?
It is essential to test and tag all portable and non-portable electrical appliances with a flexible and detachable supply lead in your workplace. Portable appliances are located in more areas than you may realise; like the office kitchen or construction areas.
Pricing
Call out fee
There is a $165 inc GST location-based call-out fee charged.
There is No Call Out fee is charged when tagging 500 or more appliances.
Included
- Onsite Visit
- Detailed Report
- Free Reminder Service
Price per appliance
11-100 Appliance Tests
$4.80 per test
101-500 Appliance Tests
$4.40 per test
501-1000 ApplianceTests
$4.00 per test
A $165.00 inc GST location based call out fee is not priced in the above calculation
A location-based call out fee can be charged for some areas such as Canberra and Surrounding Areas, Goulburn District NSW, Cooma District NSW and Far South Coast of NSW. Prices shown are per test/tag and is for standard 10A and 15A 240V leads, tools and appliances. Different pricing for 3Phase equipment testing and tagging and RCD testing. Please call 1300 139 257 for more information and a detailed quote
Understanding the Costs and Risks of In-House Electrical Testing and Tagging
Electrical appliance testing is a critical process, but attempting to do it in-house is not always the best solution. Initially, there are significant expenses involved in acquiring the right testing equipment and providing the necessary training and certification to meet the AS/NZS 3760 standards.
Moreover, the time investment required for employees to step away from their usual tasks to perform test and tagging should not be underestimated. Alongside the actual testing and tagging, it’s crucial to develop a thorough inspection program, set up timely reminders, and compile detailed reports.
It’s also important to consider the risks associated with in-house testing, especially for inexperienced personnel. There’s a higher chance of missing faults, which can be dangerous for both the equipment and the staff. Familiarity with the equipment can lead to complacency and overlooking of evident faults.
Another aspect to consider is the maintenance of the testing equipment itself. High-quality testing equipment needs to be calibrated regularly – typically every year. The cost for calibrating each PAT testing unit can be around $200 annually.
To safeguard the well-being of your employees and the durability of your equipment, and to avoid the various initial and ongoing expenses of in-house testing and tagging, consider outsourcing these services. Companies like ElectroTechnics offer competitive rates for comprehensive and professional tagging and testing services, ensuring peace of mind in your workplace.