Electrical hazards can be fatal. As such, safety in the workplace is immensely important in order to prevent accident and serious injury. Electrical safety testing is an essential safety routine for any workplace that uses electrical equipment on a daily basis.
Widely known as Test and Tag, electrical safety testing is often the only way to identify faults that could compromise the use of the product and the safety of the user. Electrical testing protects against the risk of malfunction that impacts the appliance’s intended use and electrical shock that can cause fire or serious injury.
Here is what you need to know to negate such future hazards.
What Is Test and Tag?
Test and Tag is the process where electrical appliances are checked and tested for safety. A competent technician will visually inspect and electrically test in-service appliances and equipment for personal safety. The primary purpose of test and tagging is to determine if the appliance is safe for use or if it requires repair or replacement. It is a critically important part of running an electricity safe business.
The Test and Tag involves two parts; Visually inspecting the appliance for damage to cords, guards, covers and plugs, followed by electrically testing the appliance with a portable appliance tester (PAT). Once tested, the item is recorded and given a tag to confirm that it has been tested, the date of testing, when it is next due and if any issues were discovered.
Ensure You Are Complaint
Electrical safety testing has been implemented in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom as a strategy to ensure the safety of electrical appliances and those who may come into contact with them.
Each year dozens of workplace deaths have been related to electrical malfunction. As a result, all businesses, contractors and sole trades in a working environment must have a regular test and tag record of their equipment in order to be compliant with the AS/NZS 3760:2010.
Test and Tag Frequency
When it comes to the safety of a workplace, there are a number of factors to take into consideration. One key factor is knowing how often equipment and appliances should be tested. This schedule is critical to remaining safe, especially for appliances used on a daily basis.
Test and Tag frequency, or intervals refers to how often a piece of electrical equipment must be tested. These intervals, however, vary from industry to industry and depend on what equipment is being used. The Australian standard outlines test and tag frequencies and should be considered as a minimum requirement for electrical safety.
The building, construction and demolition industries require testing every 3 months due to the hostile environment and how often equipment and appliances are used. While they are not as harsh as the construction industry, factories, warehouses and production industries require test and tag every 6 months due to the daily use of equipment. Yearly tests should be done on appliances that are at risk of general deterioration from dust, weather and flexing.
The Best In Electrical Safety
Ensuring your electrical equipment is properly tested and tagged is often a big undertaking. The professional team at Maintag are your number 1 choice in maintaining the efficacy and safety of your electrical appliances and equipment.
Maintag has built a reputation on efficient, reliable and affordable services for businesses and workplaces across the Sunshine Coast. Ensure you are compliant and book your test and tag today.
