Top 5 Myths About Electrical Safety Testing in Australia

Myth #1: “You only need to test once and you’re covered forever”

One of the most common misconceptions about electrical safety testing is that it's a one-off task. In fact, testing and tagging is an ongoing obligation, with frequencies dictated by the type of environment and the equipment.

High-risk areas like construction sites may require equipment testing every 3 months, while office environments may only need testing every 12 months. The Australian Standard AS/NZS 3760:2022 sets out these testing intervals, and also outlines compliance requirements for in-service safety inspection and electrical equipment testing. Ignoring or misunderstanding these intervals can lead to safety hazards, legal penalties, and non-compliance with AS/NZS 3760:2022.

Myth #2: “I can just buy a tester and do it myself”

While it might seem cost-effective to purchase a test and tag machine and handle electrical testing in-house, DIY testing comes with serious safety risks.

Proper electrical safety testing requires a solid understanding of the AS/NZS 3760:2022 standard, as well as training in how to inspect, test and document results correctly. Without this expertise, there’s a high chance of errors such as missing faults, incorrectly tagging equipment, or failing to maintain accurate records.

Mistakes like these could invalidate your insurance or leave you legally liable if an incident occurs. Professional testers ensure full compliance with the law and give you peace of mind.

Myth #3: “Only tradies or industrial sites need test and tag”

Electrical safety testing isn’t just for construction sites or industrial facilities. It applies to all workplaces that use plug-in electrical equipment. This includes offices, retail stores, healthcare facilities, cafes and even home offices in some cases.

If your business relies on equipment like computers, kettles, power boards, or vacuums, you have a responsibility to ensure these items are always safe to use. The AS/NZS 3760:2022 standard focuses on equipment safety, not the type of business. Ignoring this requirement simply because your workplace seems “low risk” could still lead to compliance issues or safety hazards.

Myth #4: “New equipment doesn’t need testing”

It’s a common belief that brand new electrical appliances are automatically safe, but that’s not always the case. This is especially true in high-risk environments. The AS/NZS 3760:2022 recommends a visual inspection and tagging even before first use to confirm the item is not damaged and fit for use.

Damage can occur during shipping, storage, in-store product displays, or installation and a quick check ensures nothing escapes scrutiny. In workplaces with higher safety risks, such as workshops or commercial kitchens, tagging new gear helps establish a clear testing history and demonstrates a commitment to compliance from day one.

Myth #5: “Test and tag is just about the stickers”

While the tag might be the most visible part of the process, it’s only one part of the procedure. Electrical safety testing involves multiple steps:

• A visual inspection to check for wear or damage 
• Electrical tests to confirm functionality and safety
• Accurate record keeping and reporting to meet compliance standards

The tag simply shows the date of the last test and when the next one is due. However, without the proper procedures behind it, the tag alone means nothing. Treating test and tag as a box-ticking exercise can expose your business to serious safety hazards and legal risks.