About Test and Tagging
In Victoria
Businesses in construction, demolition, and mining industries are legally required to test and tag electrical equipment, while other businesses are strongly encouraged to do so to fulfill their duty of care to employees and customers.
Many ISO accredited businesses are also required to undertake test and tag safety inspections.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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Mandatory for Specific Industries:
Testing and tagging is legally mandated for industries like construction, demolition, and mining due to the hostile environments and potential for equipment damage.
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Recommended for Other Businesses:
While not legally required for all businesses, testing and tagging is highly recommended as a way to ensure workplace safety and comply with the duty of care obligations.
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Duty of Care:
Business owners have a legal responsibility to ensure a safe working environment for their employees and visitors, and testing and tagging helps to identify and address potential electrical hazards.
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Frequency of Testing:
The frequency of testing and tagging depends on the type of equipment and the industry. Construction, Building, Mining and Demolition should be tested every 3 months. Factories, Production and Warehouses every 6 Months. Most other small business and office environments should be tested every 12 months.
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Fully Trained Tester
In order to test and tag in VIC, you don't need to be an electrician or have an electrical background. You need to be considered a Fully Trained Person, something that is acquired after successfully completing a test and tag course.
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Examples of Businesses that Benefit:
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Offices: Regular testing and tagging of office equipment like computers, printers, and photocopiers can help prevent electrical accidents.​
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Schools and Educational Institutions: Testing and tagging is crucial for protecting students, teachers, and staff from electrical hazards in schools and educational institutions.
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Retail Stores: Regular testing and tagging of electrical appliances in retail stores, like cash registers and scanners, can help prevent electrical accidents and ensure the safety of customers and employees.