img-3Electrical safety inspections for appliances are not strictly mandatory for all offices in Victoria, Australia.

However, an inspection is still recommended to ensure safety and mitigate electrical risks. Workplace safety is also part of employers’ legal obligations under Work Health and Safety (WHS).

Keep reading as we explain electrical safety inspections further, focusing on the AS/NZS 3760 standard. We will also discuss the testing and tagging process, the household appliances that require inspection, and the importance of licensed professionals for this procedure.

What is AS/NZS 3760?

AS/NZS 3760 is an Australian safety standard for inspecting and maintaining workplace electrical equipment.

Also called the Test and Tag standard, or PAT testing, this standard applies to all portable electrical equipment, household appliances, and machines connected by flexible cords.

Compliance with this standard includes various tests such as visual and manual inspections, earth leakage testing, and insulation resistance testing.

Is Testing and Tagging a Legal Obligation in Victoria?

AS/NZS 3760 or the Test and Tag standard is not a legal requirement or obligation. There is no specific law in Victoria about electrical testing and tagging. However, this standard is an encouraged best practice to ensure workplace safety. Moreover, your business can gain several other benefits from regular electrical maintenance and inspection.

Here’s what happens during the electric test and tag process in the office:

  • visual inspection of household appliances for damages
  • testing of appliances using the portable appliance tester (PAT)
  • placement of tags on safe appliances with new test dates

Employers or business owners should maintain these safety tags and ensure appliances get inspected on schedule. Here are a few more points to keep in mind:

  • While testing and tagging are not mandatory for most businesses, it is a legal responsibility to ensure a safe work environment for staff and visitors.
  • Unsafe appliances in the office without tags can cause serious consequences, and employers may be held liable should accidents occur.
  • Testing and tagging are compulsory for some businesses or industries. If you are in the demolition, construction, marine, or mining business, the appliances and machinery used need routine testing and tagging.
  • Consult a professional technician to determine whether an electrical safety inspection is mandatory for your business or office.

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What Household Appliances in Offices Require Testing and Tagging?

Business owners should be familiar with electrical safety inspection details when they decide to have their office appliances tested and tagged. One common concern is what exact appliances should be inspected.

Electrical appliances with low voltage (less than 50V), flexible cables or cords, detachable plugs, or portable RCDs are for testing and tagging. There are two classifications:

  • Class I includes home appliances like toasters, kettles, irons, and washing machines.
  • Class II includes double-insulated machines like hair and clothes dryers, drills and most power tools, and lawnmowers.

What are Test and Tag Colours?

After inspection, the technician will put a coloured tag on all safe appliances in your office. The colour indicates the testing and tagging period. This protocol makes it easy to spot appliances that missed testing or tested at different times.

Previously, some states would use a different tag colour, but now, the colours are the same for all, including Victoria.

Electric companies with testing and tagging services would provide a report after the inspection. It details all appliances tested, including items that need repair or replacement. Be sure to ask for this document for record-keeping purposes.

How Often Does Your Office Need Electrical Safety Inspection?

Knowing the electrical testing frequency helps protect your workplace from danger. However, inspection frequency in Victorian offices varies and depends on individual risk assessment.

Here’s a list of different workplace types and inspection frequency for quick reference:

  • Construction, building, and demolition industries (i.e. businesses that provide appliance/equipment for hire) – every 3 months
  • Warehouses, factories, and production facilities (i.e. businesses with manufacturing activities) -every 6 months
  • Schools, offices, and office kitchens (i.e. workplaces where appliances or cords could be flexed, moved, or abused) – every 12 months
  • Hotels, motels, bed and breakfast, guest houses, and holiday resorts or cottages (i.e. any accommodation space) – every 2 years
  • Server rooms (i.e. non-hostile environment where appliances or cords are not prone to flexing, movement, or abuse) – every 5 years

You can learn more about electrical safety inspection intervals from Table 2.4 of the AS/NZS 3760.

How Long Does a Test and Tag Service Take?

Testing and tagging an appliance take only a few minutes. However, the entire process can take longer, depending on the number of appliances for testing and the size of your office or business.

For faster inspection, inform your team of your testing and tagging schedule. Then, have the members assist the technician while on site. Prepare all the appliances for testing and tagging beforehand to avoid delays.

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Who can Conduct Testing and Tagging in Victoria?

According to the AS/NZS 3760 standard, a competent person with the following requirements can conduct a test and tag:

  • has the knowledge and skills to perform testing and tagging procedures
  • has obtained electrical test and tag course training
  • has on-the-job experience
  • has professional license or qualifications

The person responsible for testing and tagging does not necessarily need to be an electrician. However, you should contact a reputable service provider in Victoria to ensure a licensed professional inspects your office appliances.

Choose a company that adheres to Australian Standards and complies with the regulations set by Energy Safe Victoria.

Consult a Qualified Electrical Safety Inspector

The safety of your employees, customers, and guests is a legal responsibility. One effective way to ensure workplace safety is by conducting routine electrical safety inspections.

Contact Canny Electrics so our team can assess your office in Victoria and help you inspect, test, and tag your household appliances and equipment. We can design an inspection plan that fits your operations and budget.