Having electrical appliances and equipment tested and tagged is a crucial aspect of your workplace health and safety obligations. However, compliance can sometimes be challenging and navigating the regulations can be complex and time-consuming.
Andy Innes, owner of Phase Test and Tag, says, “With so many regulations and health and safety obligations to meet, it can be confusing for companies to understand requirements such as what needs to be tagged and how often.”
Testing frequencies are determined by various factors, including the usage of the electrical equipment, the environment in which they are used, and the industry. These factors determine how long a tag is valid before it expires and therefore when the appliance needs to be re-tested.
In particular, the Construction, Manufacturing, and Industrial Cleaning industries in New Zealand require frequent testing and tagging of equipment.
Common test and tag timeframes include 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, and 3 years. While many organisations have their own testing frequencies tailored to their specific company or industry requirements, we have provided a breakdown below according to NZ regulations.
How often do I need to Test and Tag?
Harsh Environments (Construction Industry) – 3 Months
Certain industries operate in environments where electrical equipment is subject to high daily use and more exposure to the outdoors. This increases the risk of damage and potential wear, leading to electrical faults and injuries. For construction and demolition sites (builders), equipment hire companies, and some workshops, it is a legal requirement under WorkSafe to test equipment every 3 months.
High Use Environments (Manufacturers & Workshops) – 6 Months
Equipment in factories, production plants, workshops, warehouses, and commercial cleaning companies experiences frequent use but is less exposed to extreme elements like weather. Although not always legally required, it is recommended that frequent testing be conducted every 6 months in these industries.
Adverse Environments – Yearly
Some equipment in low-risk environments, such as offices and schools, is still exposed to frequent use. This category often includes multi-boxes and kitchen equipment like microwaves and toasters. Testing is generally recommended every year for equipment in this category.
Low Risk Environments (Offices & Schools) – 3 Years
Most monitors, hard drives, and electrical equipment in offices, schools, and server rooms face minimal damage as they are not frequently moved or strained. It is recommended that testing be completed every 3 years.
Regardless of how often your electrical equipment is tested, common sense and health and safety best practices should still be followed. Daily steps to keep your workplace safe include:
- Using RCD-protected equipment if operating in damp or wet conditions
- Conducting a visual inspection of your equipment to check for any damage or faults in cords
- Replacing or repairing any equipment that is showing signs of wear and tear
