This page has information about who is able to test and tag electrical equipment and how often it must be done. Show Specified electrical equipment and safety switches need to be tested at intervals according to type of work they are used for. For construction work this information is in AS/NZS 3012 Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites For manufacturing, service, office, amusement and rural industry work, information is in the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013. Additional information is also available in AS/NZS 3760 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment. On this pageWho can test electrical equipment?Only a person appointed as competent by their employer can test and tag electrical equipment. Competence is based on knowledge and skills gained from training, experience, qualifications or a combination of these. It is an offence under the Electrical Safety Act 2002 to repair electrical equipment unless you have the appropriate electrical work licence. Tagging electrical equipmentA durable tag must be attached after inspecting and testing to clearly show the test date and the next scheduled test and inspection date. A tool showing the inspection and testing tag (blue impact drill with tag off handle). Intervals for testing specified electrical equipmentThe type of work being performed determines how often specified electrical equipment is tested. Specified electrical equipment is defined by section 97 of the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 as electrical equipment with a current rating of not more than 20 amps*. Specified electrical equipment also includes cord extension sets and electrical portable outlet devices (EPODs). *For service or office work, specified equipment is limited to equipment that is moved during its normal use for the purpose of its use. The table below outlines the maximum interval between tests. Note: there are specific requirements on a hire company for inspecting, tagging and testing hire equipment.
Intervals for testing Type 1 and Type 2 safety switchesFor all other work, refer to the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013. The type of work being performed determines how often safety switches are tested. The table below outlines the maximum interval between tests. For construction work, refer to AS/NZS 3012 Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites. For all other work, refer to the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 and, where applicable, AS/NZS 3760 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment. If the equipment is safe you must attach a durable tag which shows when the next test is due.
*Longer test intervals may apply. Consult AS/NZS 3760 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment. # From 1 March 2008 portable safety switches were prohibited from use in manufacturing work Equipment that fails testing should be immediately ;taken out of use and a durable tag must be attached warning people not to use the equipment. If the equipment is safe you must attach a durable tag which shows when the next test is due. Note: The requirements of the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 referenced in this guidance material takes precedence over the Australian standard AS/NZS 3760. The additional benefits of applying the requirements of the standard may assist in addressing specific risks associated with a work environment
Using hand tools incorrectly – or tools that are not fit for purpose or not suited to the user – can lead to joint and tissue injury. Check before you start work that you have the right tool for the job. The design and condition of tools can accentuate any discomfort and lead to more serious symptoms or other injuries. Safety solutions
Tool selection and use
Work area
Personal protective equipment
Power toolsPower tools are extremely hazardous when not used correctly.
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