How Often Should Electrical Equipment Be Tested and Tagged?
In every workplace, safety is more than a priority—it’s a responsibility. One of the most overlooked yet vital aspects of maintaining a safe working environment is ensuring all electrical equipment is properly tested and tagged. Whether it’s a construction site, an office building, a workshop, or a retail space, faulty electrical equipment can lead to accidents, legal liabilities, or even fatalities.
At Safetag, we specialize in keeping your equipment compliant, functional, and safe through professional test and tag services. But one of the most common questions we get asked is: How often should electrical equipment be tested and tagged? Let’s walk through the guidelines, industry standards, and how Safetag can help. To Know More Click Here
How Often Should You Test and Tag Electrical Equipment?
The frequency of testing and tagging depends primarily on the environment, type of equipment, and level of risk. The higher the risk and usage, the more frequently the equipment should be checked.
1. Construction, Mining, and Demolition Sites – Every 3 Months
These are high-risk environments with harsh conditions and intensive equipment use. Portable tools and extension leads face frequent wear, so quarterly testing is mandatory.
2. Industrial, Warehousing, and Manufacturing Sites – Every 6 Months
Factories and production floors often involve medium to high-risk operations. Machinery and electrical equipment should be tested every 6 months to avoid any operational hazards.
3. Hostile Operating Environments – Every 12 Months
Places like kitchens, laboratories, and mechanical workshops, where equipment is exposed to heat, moisture, dust, or chemicals, fall under this category. These harsh conditions increase the chance of damage and should be tested annually.
4. Commercial Office Environments – Every 5 Years
In low-risk settings such as corporate offices, where equipment like desktop computers and printers are mostly stationary, the testing frequency can be extended up to five years.
5. Hired Equipment – Before Every Hire
Any equipment that is hired out must be tested before every new hire, regardless of the last test date. This ensures safety for every customer and end-user. To Know More Click Here
Other Key Testing Guidelines
- New Equipment: When new equipment is purchased, it doesn’t require testing before use but must be tagged as “New to Service” with the date of entry into service.
- Damaged or Repaired Equipment: Must be tested and tagged again before being put back into service.
- Regular Visual Inspections: Even in between test dates, it’s good practice to visually inspect equipment regularly for exposed wires, cracked plugs, or burnt smells.
The Risks of Skipping Testing and Tagging
Failing to comply with testing and tagging standards can lead to:
- Electrical shocks or injuries to employees
- Fires due to faulty equipment
- Heavy legal penalties for non-compliance
- Damage to business reputation
- Increased downtime and productivity loss
Investing in routine testing and tagging is a small cost compared to the financial and human cost of accidents.
How Safetag Supports Your Workplace Safety
At Safetag, we go beyond compliance—we ensure peace of mind. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Qualified and Licensed Technicians trained in AS/NZS 3760 standards
- Scheduled reminders so you never miss a test cycle
- Advanced testing equipment for accurate, efficient service
- Detailed reports and asset registers for your records and audits
- Custom maintenance plans based on your business needs
Whether you’re running a multi-location construction firm or a small office, we tailor our services to suit your equipment and safety requirements. To Know More Click Here
Conclusion: Safety Starts with a Tag
Regular testing and tagging is a non-negotiable step toward electrical safety. It not only helps meet legal obligations but also plays a critical role in protecting your people, assets, and reputation. The right schedule varies by industry, but the goal is always the same: a safe, functional, and compliant workplace.Safetag is your trusted partner in building that safe environment. Let us handle your test and tag needs so you can focus on what you do best—running your business.
SafeTag – Your Safety Partner in New Zealand
Ensure workplace safety and compliance with SafeTag’s professional testing services. We offer certified solutions for Electrical Testing & Tagging, RCD Testing, Microwave Leakage Testing, and Portable Appliance Testing (PAT). Trust our experts for hassle-free, on-site service tailored to your business needs.
