What Appliances Need to Be Tested and Tagged?
Electrical safety is a critical part of any workplace or commercial environment. Testing and tagging of electrical appliances help ensure equipment is safe to use, reducing the risk of electric shock, fires, and other hazards. But a common question we hear at SafeTag is: “Which appliances actually need to be tested and tagged?”
Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to understanding what needs testing, when, and why—so you can stay compliant and protect your people.
At SafeTag, we offer professional appliance testing services that meet New Zealand safety standards and industry-specific requirements. To Know More Click Here
Step 1: Understand What Testing and Tagging Is
Testing and tagging is the process of:
- Visually inspecting electrical appliances for damage,
- Electrically testing them with specialised tools,
- Tagging them with a label to confirm the date of testing and next due date.
This process helps verify that appliances are safe to use in work environments.
Step 2: Know Which Appliances Require Testing
Generally, any appliance that is plugged in (not hardwired) and used in a workplace or high-risk environment should be tested and tagged. This includes:
1.Portable Appliances
- Laptops and phone chargers
- Power tools
- Kettles and microwaves
- Heaters and fans
2.Fixed Appliances (Not Hardwired)
- Fridges
- Washing machines
- Desktop computers and monitors
- Air purifiers
3.Extension Leads and Power Boards
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Must be tested as they can easily become damaged or overloaded.
4.High-Use Equipment
Any item subject to frequent movement or rough use, such as:
- Construction tools
- Cleaning equipment (vacuum cleaners, floor polishers)
- Kitchen appliances in commercial settings. To Know More Click Here
Step 3: Identify the Environment and Risk Level
The type of environment greatly influences how often appliances need to be tested and tagged. Here’s a breakdown:
- Construction & Demolition Sites
- Includes power tools, extension cords, site lighting
- Test every 3 months due to harsh conditions and heavy use
- Factories, Workshops, and Warehouses
- Includes machinery, welding equipment, hand tools
- Test every 6 months because of dust, vibration, and usage intensity
- Offices and Admin Areas
- Includes desktop computers, monitors, kettles, phone chargers
- Test every 12 months if appliances are moved or handled frequently
- Hostile Environments (Wet, Outdoor, or Industrial Kitchens)
- Includes garden tools, outdoor lighting, kitchen mixers, dishwashers
- Test every 6 months due to increased risk from moisture and exposure
- Low-Risk Environments (Fixed Equipment)
- Includes printers, stationary desktops that are rarely moved
- May only need visual inspection and testing every 5 years (if no damage is visible)
Pro Tip: If an appliance is frequently moved or exposed to damage, test it more often regardless of environment type. To Know More Click Here
Step 4: Look for Legal and Insurance Compliance
WorkSafe NZ and AS/NZS 3760 standards guide workplace testing. Failing to test and tag can result in:
- Insurance claims being denied
- Increased liability for electrical accidents
- Breaches of health and safety regulations
SafeTag ensures your equipment meets industry and legal standards—with documentation for audits and inspections.
Step 5: Set Up a Regular Testing Schedule
Once you’ve identified the appliances that need testing, set up a tagging schedule. At SafeTag, we:
- Keep detailed records of testing
- Send reminders when re-testing is due
- Provide colour-coded tags for quick identification
This proactive approach reduces workplace risk and improves electrical safety compliance. To Know More Click Here
Conclusion: If It Plugs In, It May Need a Tag
If you’re unsure whether an appliance needs testing, remember this simple rule: If it has a plug and is used in a work environment—it likely needs testing and tagging.
Whether you’re managing an office, factory, or construction site, SafeTag is here to help with expert appliance testing and tagging services. Our certified technicians use advanced testing equipment and follow strict safety protocols to keep your site safe and compliant.
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.
