If you operate a business that requires extensive electronic equipment, you’re probably familiar with electrical testing and tagging. The Australian government requires certain businesses to routinely test and tag their electronic equipment to help improve workplace safety and prevent electrical faults. As a business owner, it’s your job to comply with these requirements – not doing so can be extremely costly.
Depending on the industry you operate within, you might not be familiar with the ins and outs of electrical testing and tagging. On this page, we’ll explore this process in more depth to help you understand how to comply with Australian requirements.
What is ‘Testing and Tagging’?
Testing and tagging electronic equipment involves thorough testing on electronic equipment to ensure that it can be safely operated. Once the testing has been carried out, the tester will label the equipment to certify that the electronic device is safe to use. The tag provides evidence of viability for those using the tools.
‘Testing and tagging’ helps prevent the use of defective electronic equipment. In some industries, electronic equipment needs to carry large voltages, and defective machinery may result in harmful or fatal damage to those using the equipment.
Testing and Tagging Regulations
Certain companies operating specific types of electronic equipment in Australia must abide by testing and tagging Australian standards. The AS/NZS 3760 provides guidance on these standards. There are specific requirements in place to ensure that all testing and tagging occurs in the same manner – an industry standard helps ensure all work sites benefit from the same safety requirements.
These testing and tagging regulations will require specific viability tests and inspections to ensure electronic equipment is operating effectively and doesn’t have any severe damage. Once an examination occurs, a tag with the identification of the inspector, date of inspection, and next inspection date will be placed on the electronic device. The tagging helps ensure accountability and allows individuals using the equipment to know if the device has been tested.
Also, testing and tagging regulations may differ by state, as sometimes these regulations are governed by state safety authorities. For example, Workcover is a workplace safety government agency with different state offices. They provide additional guidance for Workcover testing and tagging of electrical equipment. All states will still need to adhere to the general Australian standards.
Industries That Require Testing and Tagging
To see a full list of testing and tagging industries, you will need to stay up to date with the Australian standards mentioned earlier. Alternatively, you can get in contact with our team at Richtek Electrical Solutions, and we can help you determine if you need to begin testing and tagging your equipment.
For the most part, businesses working in construction, mining, and demolition need to have their equipment tested and tagged. These industries work with heavy electrical equipment and it’s vital that their viability is assessed on a regular basis. In most instances, these devices will need to be tested and tagged at least every three months.
If you operate a business in any of the previously mentioned industries, it’s essential that you stay on top of testing and tagging. Government regulation requires you to maintain a safe workspace at all times; not doing so leaves your business open to liability if something goes wrongs. It’s essential to hire a professional team to operate your testing and tagging procedures – anything less will leave you exposed to risk.
Testing and Tagging Colours
In certain industries, you may be required to use certain colours at different times of the year. These tagging colours are in place to make the process easier to understand. Workers and regulators will be able to clearly identify if tagging is up-to-date by ensuring the colours match the time of year.
Construction and demolition must adhere closely to the government regulated colour codes. Some other industries are allowed to form their own colour codes, though using the Australian standards can simplify the process. Make sure the electrical tagging company you work with understands the importance of adhering to colour codes mandated by the Australian government.
West Australia uses the same colour codes as many other states in Australia. In fact, WA, VIC, SA, NSW, and QLD all adhere to the same colour standards.
Testing and Tagging Portable Electrical Equipment
While many business owners understand the importance of testing and tagging traditional electronic devices, some may not realise that portable electronic equipment also requires the same procedures in certain industries. It’s essential that you assess what type of portable equipment requires testing and tagging in your business.
If you’re unsure about your current portable electronic devices, it’s best to consult experts that are familiar with the industry and its protocols. Professionals are trained to test and tag a wide range of different devices; these professionals can ensure you adhere to industry standards and stay within compliance.
Perth Testing and Tagging
If you’re looking for a team in Perth to help you test and tag your electrical equipment, our electricians service most of the surrounding area. We work with companies located in Perth, Armadale, Bibra Lake, Cannington, Canning Vale, Claremont, Cockburn, Cottesloe, Dalkeith, East Victoria Park, Fremantle, Joondalup, Malaga, Mandurah, Midland, Morley, Myaree, Osborne Park, Rockingham, Wangara, and Welshpool.
If you’re looking for a long-term, local partner, Richtek Electrical Solutions is happy to establish a working relationship. We have an acute knowledge of the local economy and its relevant industries, and we’ve been helping businesses keep their work sites safe for over 10 years.
If you’re going to use an electrical solutions company to test and tag your electrical equipment, it’s essential that you use a company you can trust. With over a decade of experience in the industry, our local electricians can help you get the most out of your test and tag requirements. We only hire fully qualified and certified electricians in the Perth area.
The Benefits of Using an Electrician for Electrical Equipment Testing and Tagging
If you’re considering different companies for testing and tagging, it’s essential that you consider a strong electrical solutions company to take on the job. Electricians have thorough knowledge of the safety requirements of your businesses’ electronic equipment. They can assess problems and ensure your industrial equipment adheres to all required standards.
On top of this, electricians are able to solve more complex issues if they arise. If you have expensive electronic equipment that is faulty, you will also need to fix the problem if you want to continue operating efficiently. An electrician is qualified to make repairs on advanced electronic equipment – we can help you keep your electronic devices running smoothly throughout the year.
Electricians use a range of methods to assess the viability of electronic equipment. We can make pre-emptive repairs and improvements that ensure the longevity of your investments. With the amount of money you invest in your electronic machinery, maintaining your devices is critical if you want to receive full value for your hard-earned capital.
Cost of Testing and Tagging Electronic Equipment
Testing and tagging need to be carried out by professionals with certifications. For this reason, many services charge considerable amounts of money for their work. At Richtek Electrical Solutions, we provide affordable testing and tagging services that are accessible for businesses of any size.
The cost of your particular requirements will depend on the size and complexity of the job. There is no set fee for a testing and tagging service – we will need to provide you a quote based on the size of the job. Having a professional come to your site and assess the scope of the job will ensure an accurate quote estimate.
We’re always happy to provide free quotes to prospective clients. If you feel you need to begin testing and tagging your electronic equipment, call Richtek Electrical Solutions for a preliminary discussion of your requirements. We offer electrical services for a wide variety of industrial applications throughout the Perth area.
Form a Long-Term Plan
If you’re beginning the testing and tagging process, it’s essential to form a long-term plan for the future. As mentioned previously, testing and tagging are required regularly – you’ll most likely need all of your devices checked every three months. Using the same company to provide these services can help you improve your consistency and form a long-term testing schedule.
Use a firm that will schedule their own testing and tagging visits at the correct compliance intervals. An easy-to-use service can help you focus on the components of your business that truly matter. As a business owner, you shouldn’t have to worry about keeping up to date with regular testing and tagging – let the professionals handle the entire process for you.
If you’re interested in implementing a long-term testing and tagging strategy, get in contact with our team at Richtek Electrical Solutions today. We have the experience and expertise to form a long-term plan that suits your budget. Our team of qualified electricians will ensure your electronic equipment is operating effectively throughout the year!
