Frequently Asked QUESTIONS

Typically any electrical item that has a power lead that is plugged into a power point needs to be inspected, tested and tagged on a regular basis.

For some types of equipment or electrical items, the frequency of testing is more often where there is a higher safety risk or where there is likely to be greater use and wear. For example, a tradesman or a carpenter has a higher risk factor and needs to have their electrical equipment tested more often than a computer in a standard office.

There are some types of items and equipment like “hard wired” electrical fittings that do not need to be tested and tagged. A qualified Jim’s Test & Tag Franchisee will be able to offer advice and support for this question in more detail on site.

It is essential to test and tag all portable and non-portable electrical appliances with a flexible and detachable supply lead in your workplace. Portable appliances are located in more areas than you may realise; like the office kitchen or construction areas.

Our technicians come across many electrical dangers and hazards. Some of the most frequently electrical safety hazards include faulty wiring, RCD’s and earth systems. There are many different kinds of workplace hazards it is best to get a professional to inspect them.

According to Australian standards, the suitable persons who can perform regulated test and tag services are those who possess qualifications and/or sufficient knowledge in electrical testing and tagging. These include our qualified technicians who test and tag across the nation.

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.

Ensure your test and tag technician is aware of the time frames scheduled in Table 4 of AS/NZS 3760 so that your workplace is meeting the safety requirements. At Jim’s Test & Tag we make sure that you don’t fall behind your regular testing schedule by sending out courtesy inspection reminders.

A multimeter is not an adequate tool as it isn’t compliant with AS/NZS3760. Equipment that has an electronic, magnetic or membrane type on/off switch requires mandatory leakage current tests. Some of this equipment can be located in offices, kitchens and construction sites. You must ensure that your service provider does not solely rely on a multimeter as it does not meet the testing requirements as outlined in AS/NZS3760.

All Jim’s Test & Tag technicians utilise test equipment that complies with the testing obligations of AS/NZS3760.

While new items don’t require test and tagging, they must be visually checked and they must still be tested and tagged once in service,  following the requirements of AS/NZS 3760.

Yes, all equipment needs to be turned off before testing can commence. This is to ensure the safety of our technicians and customers. Once an electrical risk assessment has been completed then equipment can be turned back on.

Double insulated electrical items and equipment should be tested and tagged in accordance with table 4 of AS/NZS3760.

Jim’s Test & Tags fees are based on the number of tests we complete for you. This test rate includes all labour, test equipment, test tags, and reporting. For a complete quote call Jim’s Test & Tag on 131 546.

The testing of second-hand equipment is dependent on State Legislation. At Jim’s Test & Tag we can perform inspections of the equipment you wish to sell or buy to ensure it abides by your State’s electrical safety requirements.

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. At Jim’s Test & Tag we uphold a strong sense of efficiency in all of our testing and tagging appointments.

Appliance Testing is a method used to check the safety of electrical appliances and the environment they are used or stored in and tagging them to show that they have been tested and when they need to be tested again. A qualified technician will come and inspect your electrical appliances, conduct electrical testing on them and then label a dated tag on each tested item. They will also provide you with a record to prove that you have complied with electrical testing and risk management laws.

Test and tag records are compliant with the standards in AS/NZS 3760:2022. This involves a succinct history of all the tests along with adequate tagging that displays the date and assessment details of the item.

All Jim’s Test & Tag professionals are trained with a high level of expertise and knowledge of the test and tag industry including State Legislation and electrical safety requirements. These include OHS/WHS, and AS/NZS 3760 standards. At Jim’s Test & Tag we can provide our expert advice to ensure your home or work is safety compliant.

It is the process of visually inspecting and electrically testing portable electrical appliances to ensure they are safe for use.

To prevent electrical shocks and fires, and to meet your “duty of care” under WHS laws.

Yes, for “high-risk” environments (like construction). For others, it is the primary way to prove you are managing electrical risks and ensuring the health and safety of workers so far as is ‘reasonably practicable” as per the legal requirement.

A legal obligation for employers (PCBUs) to ensure the health and safety of workers so far as is “reasonably practicable.”

The Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 3760:2022.

ACT:  https://www.legislation.act.gov.au/a/2011-35/

VIC:   https://www.legislation.vic.gov.au/in-force/acts/occupational-health-and-safety-act-2004/045

NSW: https://legislation.nsw.gov.au/view/html/inforce/current/act-2011-010

QLD:  https://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/view/whole/html/inforce/current/act-2011-018

S.A.:  https://www.legislation.sa.gov.au/lz?path=/c/a/work%20health%20and%20safety%20act%202012

N.T.:  https://legislation.nt.gov.au/Legislation/WORK-HEALTH-AND-SAFETY-NATIONAL-UNIFORM-LEGISLATION-ACT-2011

TAS:   https://www.legislation.tas.gov.au/view/html/inforce/current/act-2012-001

W.A.: https://www.legislation.wa.gov.au/legislation/statutes.nsf/law_s53267.html&view=consolidated

No, it generally applies to equipment that connects to a socket via a flexible cord/plug.

A Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking—essentially the employer or business entity responsible for safety.

Visual inspection is part of the process, but electrical testing (like insulation resistance) is required to find “invisible” faults.

You risk heavy fines, potential prosecution if an accident occurs, and the voiding of insurance policies.

Yes. If the employer provides the equipment, they are responsible for its safety, though the risk level (and frequency) is usually lower.

No. You must be a “competent person,” which can be achieved by completing a nationally recognised course.

Someone with the knowledge, skills, and training to use a Portable Appliance Tester (PAT).

Yes, provided you have been trained and are deemed competent.

In most states, you need the competency. However, in Queensland, you need a Restricted Electrical Contractor’s Licence to test for other businesses.

Every 3 months (as per AS/NZS 3012).

Every 6 months.

Typically every 12 months for equipment prone to “flexing” (like chargers) and up to 5 years for stationary equipment (i.e. in a closed server room)

Fridges, freezers and dishwashers etc., (fixed items)  Every 12 months  however portable items should be tested more frequently due to the harsh environment (heat/moisture/grease) and higher risk.

New equipment doesn’t need testing but must be visually inspected and tagged as “New to Service” with the date it was put into use.

No.

This applies to an environment where the equipment/supply cord is not prone to flexing or open to abuse – this is commonly referred to as a non-hostile environment – a typical example of this might be a company’s server room. The rest of an office is prone to movement, flexing of cords and the office environment,   A risk assessment should be carried out.

Yes, based on a documented risk assessment, but you must justify why the interval is different from the Standard.

Environments where equipment is exposed to moisture, heat, vibration, dust or other particles, or mechanical damage.

Yes, it must be inspected before every hire and tested every 3 months.

Generally, no. Equipment should be pulled from service once the tag expires.

It ensures the “ground” wire is properly connected to prevent the casing from becoming live.

It checks that the internal insulation hasn’t broken down, preventing leakage of current.

A test performed while the device is powered on to see if any electricity is “leaking”, which could potentially be very dangerous  to the user.

Yes. They are high-risk items and must be tested like any other lead.

Most WHS policies strictly forbid double adapters; power boards with overload protection are considered the safer alternative.

This ensures the active and neutral wires are connected to the correct pins.

Only the power supply (the “brick” and the lead). The laptop itself is low voltage and doesn’t require a tag.

Yes, but this requires specialized 3-phase testing equipment and specific competency.

No, it only means it was safe at the time of the test.

Safety Switch (RCD) testing is a separate requirement involving “trip-time” tests to ensure the switch shuts off fast enough to save a life.

The tester’s name, the date of the test, the date of the next test, and the outcome (Pass/Fail).

Only in Construction and Demolition. For all other industries, you can use any colour you like.

Red (Dec–Feb), Green (Mar–May), Blue (Jun–Aug), Yellow (Sep–Nov).

Yes. WHS laws require a record of all testing to be kept for the life of the equipment or until the next test.

Yes, digital logs are the industry standard and are easier to present during a SafeWork/WorkSafe audit.

The item is considered “untested” and must be re-tested and re-tagged before use, unless you can provide clear evidence that it is compliant

At least 7 years is recommended for legal and insurance purposes.

It must be labelled with a “Danger – Do Not Use” tag and withdrawn from service immediately.

Only if you are a licensed electrician or an authorized service agent. A “test and tag” technician cannot perform repairs unless they have appropriate qualifications or competencies.

Checking for damage such as frayed, cut, or melted cords, cracked plugs, bent pins, missing insulation, missing or broken guards, and signs of overheating (discoloration).

No, it’s just one part. You also need a broader Electrical Safety Management Plan.

No, smoke alarms fall under  fire safety regulations.

The tool itself is, but the battery charger (which plugs into the wall) must be tested and tagged.

Second-hand items must be tested before being sold or used in a workplace (refer to AS/NZS 5761).

The business owner or directors. Even if you hire a contractor, the responsibility to ensure the work is done correctly stays with the PCBU.