Test and Tagging of Appliances
What is test and tag?
Test and tagging checks the safety of your appliances. At DJD Electrics it is undertaken by someone who has successfully completed training, or is a fully qualified A Grade electrician.
It is a three step procedure:
- Possible damage is checked via a visual inspection. A trained eye will be searching for cuts, fraying, heavy scuffing, damage to plug, bent pins, taped leads, visible wires and signs of overheating.
- The appliance is electrically tested with a portable appliance tester (pat tester). This will measure insulation resistance, leakage current testing, polarity and earth resistance.
- The appliance’s cord is tagged with either a 'Pass' or 'Danger' label. You will be provided with a full report. Any appliances tagged with a 'Danger' label will be brought to your attention to either be disposed of or repaired and retested.
Which equipment needs to be tested and tagged?
Any appliance with a flexible cord which plugs in to a standard power point. Basically, if you plug it, test it. This includes tools, extension leads and portable RCDs.
Appliances kept in a 'hostile operating environment' need more frequent test and tagging. According to WorkSafe Victoria, a hostile operating environment is one in which heat, UV, moisture, vibration, sharp objects, corrosive chemicals or dust are present. Appliances which are moved frequently such as power tools and kettles are also at higher risk of dangerous damage.
Some spaces which represent a hostile operating environment are:
- Construction Sites
- Manufacturing Areas within Factories
- Workshops
- Workplaces in which Maintenance or Fabrication Occur
- Kitchens
Appliances kept in non hostile operating environments require less frequent test and tagging. Non hostile operating environments are clean, dry and well organised. The appliances tend to be fixed and therefore not moved often. Appliances are less likely to be damaged.
Some spaces which represent a non hostile operating environment are:
- Offices
- Reception Areas
- Retail Stores
- Classrooms
What are the test and tag guidelines for Victoria?
| Frequency | Site/Business |
|---|---|
| Every 3 Months |
Equipment for Hire Portable equipment used for construction or demolition |
| Every 6 Months |
Commercial cleaning equipment Workshop or manufacturing space |
| Every 12 Months | Hostile operating environments |
| Every 2 Years | Accommodation |
| Every 5 Years | Non hostile operating environments |
Call DJD Electrics on 03 8819 1596 to have your equipment tested and tagged.