Why Hiring the Right Test and Tag Tester Matters

What does a test and tag tester do?

A competent (approved) person must regularly test all electrical equipment and appliances in the workplace to ensure they are safe to use, and are in compliance with AS/NZS 3760 standards,. A dead appliance is obvious, but other appliances may be faulty without anyone even knowing it.

A test and tag technician runs tests on appliances, including the power cord, to detect any potential flaws that pose a hazard. This includes the possibility of electric shock or a fire hazard. Equipment that requires testing includes:

• Appliances and equipment where electricity comes from a plug-in socket.
• Equipment exposed to conditions such as moisture, vibration, heat, dust, corrosive chemicals, and mechanical damage.

Testing and tagging is primarily about safety, but the process can also save you money. If a tester detects a flaw early, you can have someone repair that appliance before the issue becomes a major one.

Key factors to consider when choosing a tester

1. Check certifications and training

Before hiring a test and tag technician, you need to check their certification and training. This ensures they can carry out the procedure competently and in compliance with Australian standards. Electricians can legally test and tag equipment, but a competent tester doesn’t need to be an electrician.

To become a “competent person”, testers must undergo the Tag and Test Course to become a PAT tester (Portable Appliance Tester). Competent persons can then test and tag electrical equipment and appliances in Australia.

2. Do they have experience?

Acquiring the skills to become a test and tag tester is only part of the puzzle. Nothing beats hands-on experience, so hire a tester who has runs on the board.

You can determine experience levels by viewing tag and tag websites, conducting independent online research, and having conversations with testers or their previous clients.

Industry experience is essential to guarantee the process is accurate, safe, and compliant

3. Do they have an understanding of local safety regulations?

It’s important to discuss compliance with your test and tag tester to clarify that they have a solid knowledge and understanding of SafeWork NSW guidelines and state-specific requirements. This knowledge ensures the tester knows exactly what to do and how to remain compliant with the rules and regulations of Australian standards.

Red flags to avoid when choosing a tester

You need to be aware of red flags in any industry, including this one. For instance, always be suspicious of testers whose prices seem unrealistically low. This could indicate an uncertified operator simply trying to “cash in” on a mandatory industry.

If test and tag services are poorly executed, you risk non-compliance with governing laws. For example,  if an incident occurs involving an item that either wasn’t tested and tagged, or inadequately tested, the employer may be accountable and subject to legal action.

Always check the company or individual tester’s reputation before hiring their services.

Benefits of hiring a professional

Hiring a professional for appliance test and tag services guarantees that all electrical equipment is thoroughly inspected and accurately tagged according to Australian safety standards. Professionals use specialised tools (such as a PAT tester) to detect faults that may otherwise go unnoticed in routine visual checks. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards.

Proper tagging helps businesses remain compliant with safety standards, and also avoid costly penalties for non-compliance.

Proactive hazard prevention leads to long-term cost savings by minimising the likelihood of electrical failures, downtime, appliance replacement, and potential legal issues.

A professional test and tag company will also be proactive in letting you know when your equipment is due to be tested again, so that you always remain compliant.