Test and Tagging

Test and tagging is a generic name given to the process of visually inspecting and electrically testing in-service electrical equipment for personal safety. This service name can vary, it can be named such as: tagging, test tag, test and tag, electrical tagging, appliance testing, portable appliance test or lead tagging.

Why is this necessary?

The aim of test and tagging is to determine if the appliance is electrically safe for personal use. The appliance undergoes a visual inspection for defects such as damage or missing components and a number of electrical tests to measure earth continuity, insulation resistance and polarity.

In Australia this is done using the AS/NZS 3760:2010 standard – In-service inspection and testing of electrical equipment.

Electrical safety and regular yearly inspections of your electrical tools, appliances, power leads, extension leads and all other workplace and home electrical equipment are not to be taken lightly.

Each year in Australia there are dozens of workplace related deaths caused by electrocution and many more serious injuries or destructive fires. Most of these could have been prevented with regular Test and Tag inspections.

This is why it is now OH&S legislation that some businesses, contractors, sole traders operating in a working environment must have a regular test and tag performed on their electrical equipment if they want to be compliant with the AS/NZS 3760:2010.