Electricity is one of the most important power sources that is used everyday. However, it can cause serious injury and death if not properly managed. Business owners and managers have the responsibility to ensure that their electrical equipment is safe and free from any damages.
Electrical test and tag is the process of checking the safety of electrical appliances through a series of visual inspections and functional tests.
Test and tagging electrical equipment is an important and vital job which should never be underestimated. Faulty electronics, equipment, and wiring can cause electrocution, electrical burns, property damage and injuries due to fire.
Damages can occur on electronics and electrical equipment due to wear and tear. Thus, these assets become a liability to the facilities because of the risks brought about.
AS/NZS 3760 is a set of standards created by Standards Australia together with Standards New Zealand. It outlines the method and frequency of inspecting and testing for electrical appliances.
This is a benchmark for test and tag as well as electrical safety. Testing and tagging workplace equipment not only secure employees’ and staff’s safety but also ensure that Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 (QLD) has complied. Failure to comply with the standards and regulations can result in a hefty fine.
Each year, people in Australian workplaces are injured or die due to contact with faulty electrical equipment. Thus, it is vital that electrical equipment is regularly tested.
The question is, how often do they need inspecting? The intervals in the testing and tagging of the equipment vary from industry to industry. Below is a guide as to how frequently a piece of equipment is tested and tagged based on the workplace:
Offices
If there is no safety switch, all office equipment is tested every five years. While other equipment is tested every three months.
The push button or user test of a fixed switch button is tested and tagged biannually, and the operating time or current test is due every two years.
For a portable safety switch, the push button or user test is due quarterly and the operating time or current test is due every two years.
Construction Industry
Testing and tagging for construction equipment such as transportable structures, fixed and transportable equipment and construction wiring are due biannually, while other equipment is due quarterly.
The push button or user test of a fixed switch button is tested and tagged monthly, and the operating time or current test is due annually.
For a portable safety switch, the push button or user test should be tested daily or before every use and the operating time or current test is due quarterly.
Service Industry
If there is no safety switch, all equipment is tested once a year.
For a portable safety switch, the push button or user test should be tested daily or before every use and the operating time or current test is due every six months.
Amusement Industry
For double insulated specified equipment, test and tag is carried out annually. While specified equipment not double insulated is due every six months.
The push button or user test of a fixed switch button is tested and tagged every six months, and the operating time or current test is due annually.
For a portable safety switch, the push button or user test is due biannually and the operating time or current test is due every two years.
Rural
Equipment used without safety switch and under risk factors stated in section 120 of the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 is tested once a year.
Under the Electrical Safety Act 2002, it is an offence for anyone other than a competent person with appropriate training, expertise and qualifications to carry out electrical testing and tagging.
The electrician or competent person must have a current Electrical Work licence. It is extremely important that a properly qualified, licensed, electrical contractor is contacted or hired to carry out the necessary tests and inspections.
FCF is a trusted fire & electrical service company dedicated to ensure that your business and employees are safe from fire and electrical risks and hazards. We make sure that all building requirements for a safe and secure workplace are met.
We conduct inspection, testing, and tagging as per the Australian Standard AS/NZS 3760. If you need further information or advice, you may contact us to arrange a site visit.
