The Difference Between RCD Testing and Standard PAT Testing
Electrical safety is not something any workplace should compromise on — especially in New Zealand where compliance standards are very clear and strict. Yet in most workplaces, there is still confusion between PAT Testing and RCD Testing. Many assume that testing appliances (PAT) is enough — but that leaves a major safety gap because PAT does not verify the performance of RCD safety switches.
At Safetag NZ, we specialize in both PAT and RCD testing, and we always educate our clients on why both are essential for legally safe workplaces. They protect different parts of your electrical system — PAT ensures the appliance is safe, while RCD ensures human protection in case a fault occurs. To Know More Click Here
What is PAT Testing?
PAT Testing stands for Portable Appliance Testing. In New Zealand, this is done under the AS/NZS 3760 Standard. PAT Testing involves:
- Visual inspection (damaged cables, cracked plugs, exposed internal wires, burnt marks etc.)
- Electrical test using a PAT instrument to measure:
- Earth Continuity
- Insulation Resistance
- Polarity
- Leakage Current (where needed)
This is recommended for ALL portable equipment such as:
- Laptops & chargers
- Power tools & industrial tools
- Appliances like kettles / microwaves
- Extension leads & multi-boxes
- Office equipment
PAT testing confirms: Is this appliance safe to be used daily? To Know More Click Here
What is RCD Testing?
An RCD (Residual Current Device) is a life-saving device. It detects leakage current (like when someone touches a live wire) and instantly cuts the power. RCD testing checks:
- Trip time response
- Trip current sensitivity
- Correct connection & proper functioning
Even if all your appliances are perfectly PAT-tested, they cannot protect a human during a shock event — only RCD can. That is why RCD testing is not optional — it is your last line of defense in a real emergency.
The Core Difference Explained Better
- PAT Test focuses on equipment safety.
RCD Test focuses on human shock protection. - Without PAT → appliances can fail unexpectedly.
Without RCD → electrocution may not be prevented at the right moment. - So one does not replace the other.
They work together to form complete safety.
Why It Matters in New Zealand Workplaces
New Zealand workplaces are legally required to provide a safe environment under the Health and Safety at Work Act. Testing and tagging is part of that responsibility — especially for portable tools and appliances.
Industries that MUST take testing seriously:
- Construction companies
- Manufacturing units
- Warehouses
- Schools & early childhood centres
- Offices with multiple extension leads / computer equipment
- Events / outdoor staging / AV systems
- Hospitality kitchens & food service areas
In all these environments, electrical faults are extremely common — and that is exactly why combined testing is critical.
Safetag regularly finds:
- Extension boxes with hidden internal burn marks
- Damaged grinder / drill cords
- Plug tops that are loose or rewired incorrectly
- RCDs that don’t trip fast enough
These are not rare issues — they are regular discoveries.
How Safetag NZ Makes This Easy for You
We provide:
- On-site testing
- Professional PAT & RCD equipment
- Labelling & tagging for every device
- Detailed reporting & asset register
- Reminder schedules for retesting
- Support for compliance records / audits
Our goal is simple: To help NZ workplaces stay legally compliant and electrically safe without stress. To Know More Click Here
Final Conclusion
PAT Testing makes sure every appliance and tool is physically safe to use every day. RCD Testing makes sure the protection device reacts instantly in the moment of an electrical fault. One protects equipment, the other protects human life — and you need both for proper risk control. In a compliance-focused country like New Zealand, relying on only PAT is not enough for full safety coverage. Workplaces are legally expected to ensure both appliance integrity and shock-protection performance. Safetag helps businesses achieve complete compliance by combining both PAT and RCD testing for total workplace electrical safety.
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.
