The tag indicates the person who performed the test, when the inspection was done and when the next testing should be done.
The test and tag process is a two-step procedure. First, the appliance is visually examined for any damages by the technician. Secondly, after the technician is satisfied with overall outlook of the equipment, an electrical test is initiated to ascertain its electrical safety. An equipment called a Portable Appliance Tester is used to perform the test.
After thorough inspection and testing, a tag is attached to the electrical equipment to show that it has indeed been tested in compliance with AS/NZS 3760 regulation. The tag indicates the person who performed the test, when inspection and testing was done and when the next testing should be done.
The frequency with which testing is done is determined by the workplace environment. Some environments like construction may require appliance testing after every three months while others may stretch up to one year.
The period within which the appliances should be tested is largely dependent on the workplace environment in which they are used. For example, an environment where there is much construction activities will require a shorter testing period due to harsh conditions. In Australia, it's recommended that equipment in industries such as factories and workshops, workplaces with repairs, assembly and manufacturing equipment should be tested within every six months. For a workplace where the electrical equipment is not prone to abuse, testing and tagging has to be performed after five years for class I and II equipment and after three months for RCD's. Electrical equipment in areas that provide residential services should undergo testing and tagging once in every two years and after six months for RCD's. Testing and tagging of equipment that is commercially used for cleaning should be exercised once every six months. Equipment for hire should be tested and tagged prior to being hired and once every three months.
However, some technicians might perform the tests using cheap PAT testers to ascertain the safety of electrical equipment. Service providers who perform the risk assessment using only an insulation tester might not be able to detect all hidden faults. As an employer, this kind of service cannot satisfy your obligation to offer safe working environment.
Legislative requirements in many states dictate that employers in any business must ensure electrical equipment are tested and tagged to detect any damage and reduce risk. Electrical appliance are categorised in two classes, class I group of earthed appliance,s for example kettles, and class II which contains double insulated appliances, for example hair dryers. In any business, these portable appliances are items that are often handled by the staff members. Therefore, they are susceptible to abuse and damage from harsh environmental conditions. An unsafe appliance poses a safety risk to any worker who may need its service. To minimise safety risk, appliances must be tested and tagged.
Appliances with cord sets that receive electric power through socket outlet
Appliances used in settings where they are prone to damage and faster depreciation
After being serviced or following repair
Second-hand appliances must be subjected to test and tag to detect any safety risks before use.
Allot $135 on each circuit for emergency lights together with exit lights. Cumulative fee of $90 is charged for examining 10 fire extinguishers and the charge revised to $5 each for more than 50 fire extinguishers. Smoke alarms are inspected and tagged at a cost of $30. Nonetheless, before choosing a technician to assess the risks of your equipment, do your own background check.