As someone working with electrical equipment, it's vital you understand the regulations around testing and tagging. Not only does it ensure everyone's safety, but staying compliant could also impact your future compensation in case of any mishaps.
Why It Matters to You:
- Equipment Safety: Proper testing and tagging make sure the equipment you use every day is safe.
- Protecting Your Rights: In the unfortunate event of an accident, if equipment wasn’t maintained, it could affect your compensation claims.
Who Can Test Your Equipment?
- Only individuals deemed competent by the employer can test and tag.
- Competence stems from training, experience, qualifications, or a mix of these.
- Remember: It's against the law (per the Electrical Safety Act 2002) to fix electrical equipment without the right license.
The Importance of Tagging:
- Once a piece of equipment has been inspected and tested, a durable tag should be attached.
- This tag will display the test date and when the next inspection is due.
How Often Should Equipment Be Tested? Your work type determines the testing frequency:
| Work Type | Test & Tag Interval (Max) |
|---|---|
| Construction Work – Transportable Structures | 6 months |
| Construction Work – Other Equipment | 3 months |
| Office Work (Without a Safety Switch) | 5 years |
| Manufacturing Work – Double Insulated | 12 months |
| Rural Work (With Certain Risk Factors & No Safety Switch) | 12 months |
| ... | ... |
Note: Hire companies have distinct requirements for inspecting, tagging, and testing rental equipment.
Safety Switch Testing Intervals: The work type also determines safety switch testing frequency:
| Work Type | Fixed Safety Switch | Portable Safety Switch |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Work | 1 month | Daily/before each use |
| Manufacturing Work | 6 months | Daily/before each use |
| Office Work | 6 months | 3 months |
| ... | ... | ... |
What Happens If Equipment Fails Testing?
- Unsafe equipment should be immediately removed from service.
- Attach a durable tag warning others not to use it.
- If the equipment passes, remember to tag it with the next test's due date.
In Closing: Always prioritize the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 over the Australian standard AS/NZS 3760. Understanding and following these regulations isn’t just a formality—it's your safety and your rights at stake. Stay safe, stay informed!