The duration of testing and tagging depends on the appliance tested however it should only really take a few minutes at a time. A visual inspection of the appliance takes place prior which in turn aids the technician to judge what electrical test needs to be performed. Some appliances have to go through several tests prior to being labelled as safe and acceptable.
According to Australian standards, a competent person can test and tag. A suitable persons who can perform regulated test and tag services are those who possess qualifications and/or sufficient knowledge in electrical testing and tagging.
Testing frequency differs between workplace based on circumstances including levels of risks involved and where the equipment is being used. Most businesses only require yearly inspections however there are some workplaces that have high risk environments and therefore need more frequent testing from daily to monthly.
• Environment where the appliance is frequently moved, the appliance must be re-tested and tagged every 12 months. Hostile environments.
• If appliances are kept in a non-hostile environment, such as a reception desk, it only has to be tested and tagged every five years.
• If appliances are kept in a workshop or manufacturing space you must get a test and tag completed every six months.
• If your business provides a hire service, your equipment is must be tested and tagged every three months.
• Any portable equipment/ appliances used for construction or demolition must also be tested and tagged every three months.
• If appliances are kept in accommodation spaces must be tested and tagged every two years.
Ensure your test and tag technician is aware of the time frames scheduled in Table 4 of AS/NZS 3760. Powerq Test & Tag Service make sure that you don’t fall behind your regular testing schedule by sending out courtesy inspection reminders.
From time to time an item will fail and there is a responsibility from the technician to report the defective item and label it accordingly. These items are withdrawn from use and depending on the fault further testing or repairs can be completed to fix the fault.
The time required to test and tag depends on the specific appliance being tested, however it should only take a few minutes at a time. A visual inspection of the appliance takes place first which in turn aids the technician to judge what electrical test needs to be performed. Some appliances have to go through several tests prior to being labelled as safe and acceptable.
Test and tag records are compliant with the standards in AS/NZS 3760:2010. This involves a succinct history of all the tests along with adequate tagging that displays the date and assessment details of the item.
Records of inspection and testing of electrical equipment, including: