What is Testing and Tagging?
Test and Tagging is a generic name given to the process of visually inspecting and electrically testing equipment for personal safety. The aim is to determine if an appliance is electrically safe for use. When conducting a test and tag, the appliance undergoes an inspection for any defects such as deterioration or missing components and a number of electrical tests to measure earth continuity, insulation resistance and polarity.
Frequency to Test and Tag?
Regular yearly test and tag inspections of electrical tools, appliances, power cords, extension leads and all other workplace and home electrical equipment should be carried out. The frequency of testing will be determined by a number of factors, the degree in which the equipment is exposed to and the level of risk it poses to the user(s). Factory environments require more regular inspections, every six months and in the construction and building sector, every three months.
All workplaces require a ‘risk management’ approach in determining the type of inspection and if necessary any testing that is required for electrical equipment. Inspections need to be carried out more frequently in an environment where electrical equipment is, during normal use, subject to adverse conditions e.g. exposure to moisture, excessive temperatures, corrosive chemicals and or mechanical damage. The risk assessment should be determined where more specific testing of electrical equipment is necessary and the frequency of such testing.
It is an OH&S legislation that all businesses, contractors and sole traders operating in a working environment must have regular Test and Tagging performed on their electrical equipment. Test and Tag isn’t a complex process, the modern PAT (portable appliance tester) allows for accurate and efficient testing.
Test and Tag Melbourne equipment
All hire equipment should be Test and Tagged yearly and it is the responsibility of the hirers to provide safe, working equipment to all hirees.
“Since the introduction of Test and Tag in 2000, the fatality rate due to electrocution has been halved, this is due to the fact that 65% of all electrocutions are caused by faulty portable electrical devices, which include power tools, computers, kitchen appliances, extension leads, power boards, etc. Regular Testing and Tagging helps to eliminate these faulty devices out of circulation.”
* Test & Tag Compliance Services Website.
What happens with damaged goods in the Workplace?
When electrical equipment has been damaged or is of risk to persons using it, the employer, or person in control of the workplace must ensure that the item is immediately tagged ‘out of use.’ After inspection by a competent person, the item needs to be assessed to attain whether or not it can be repaired, or if it has to be discarded. For basic equipment like cords, a similar replacement can be used, however if any other further repairs are required, then a licensed electrician should be called upon to complete the repairs. After the repairs have been carried out, the equipment must be tested prior to returning the item to its intended use.
New equipment does not require inspection, and only equipment in use needs to be tested, however if the equipment has been dormant for a period where the testing is out of date, then testing should be carried out prior to use again.
Should records be kept?
It is important to keep records of all Test and Tagged electrical equipment and the dates in which follow-up inspections will be required. A log book or database with all relevant data should be located where all managers have access to view the information in compliance with OH&S regulations.
Test and Tag Prices
Prolux Electrical Contractors provides test and tag services across Metropolitan Melbourne and Queensland. Prolux charge a flat rate per test and tag and can come out to your place of business. Ten items can be Test and Tagged within a one hour time frame.
Call us during business hours on 1800 800 880 to book in your Test and Tag requirements.
Call Prolux Electrical Contractors today on 1800 800 880.
The electrician for testing and tagging.