What SafeWork NSW Inspectors Check for in Electrical Safety

iElectrical faults remain one of the top causes of injuries, fires, and costly disruptions in Aussie workplaces. Keeping your site safe means staying ahead of these risks, and that’s exactly what SafeWork inspectors look for.

Inspections focus heavily on electrical compliance, so even small oversights can lead to fines or forced shutdowns.

What SafeWork NSW inspectors typically look for during an electrical safety inspection

Your business should be ready to show the following during a safety inspection::

1. Outdated or damaged equipment

• Frayed cords, exposed wires, cracked casings, and worn plugs are warning signs.
• If equipment looks damaged or worn, there’s a higher risk of electric shock or fire.

2. Test and tag compliance

• Your plug‑in equipment used in higher‑risk conditions must be regularly inspected and tested by a competent person in accordance with AS/NZS 3760.
• Tags need to be easy to see and clearly dated. You also have to keep records of the tests, including when the next test is due.

3. RCD (Residual Current Device) testing

• SafeWork will check that RCDs (safety switches) are installed where needed and that they work properly.
• Testing RCDs regularly helps protect workers from electric shock and is something inspectors often focus on during audits.

4. Clear access to electrical panels

• Switchboards, distribution boards, and power boards should never be blocked or overloaded.
• Extension leads that run across doorways or busy walkways are a serious safety concern.

5. Employee awareness and behaviour

• Your staff should know how to use equipment safely, store leads the right way, and spot damaged equipment.
• Putting up signs and holding toolbox talks shows you are managing risks.

6. Workplace documentation

• Inspectors will want to see maintenance logs, tag records, risk assessments, and proof that a qualified person did the tests.
• Keeping your paperwork organised shows you take electrical safety seriously and helps inspections go more smoothly.

Common issues that lead to fines

These are the common mistakes that get many businesses into trouble:

• Skipping or delaying your test and tag cycles.
• Using contractors or staff who aren’t licensed or competent.
• Not keeping records or losing visibility of testing intervals.
• RCDs not tested or equipment not maintained in line with regulations.

SafeWork can give on-the-spot fines and strict penalties if risks are not properly managed.