Who Can Test And Tag Electrical Appliances?
The requirements for who can provide test and tagging services of electrical appliances varies significantly between the states and territories. It is your responsibility to ensure you are suitably qualified and hold any necessary licenses etc before you perform any testing and tagging.
The foundation criteria for performing testing and tagging in Australia is the person must be a competent person. This is defined in the standard AS/NZS 3760, Clause 1.4.4 and Appendix B. The criteria includes;
- Knowing how to use the test equipment safely and correctly
- Have an understanding of the dangers of electricity
- Know the differences in construction between Class I and Class II appliances
- Understand the application and requirements of the standard (the entire document not just a few clauses)
- Have an understanding of any relevant regulations or legislation that may apply in the jurisdiction where you will be performing the testing and tagging
- Keeping up to date with any relevant changes such as; technology, standards, legislation, industry codes.
Undertaking a reputable, structured test and tag course is highly recommended. Training requirements do vary between jurisdictions.
Currently there is no formal or recognised registration or licensing system for test and tag technicians in Australia. Some training organisations issue a “test and tag license” however this is always their own in-house system typically using your certificate number as your “license” number. These are not a true license or “ticket” that is recognised by any regulators as having any validity. More info about the great test and tag license myth.
The information below is a guide only and summarises our understanding of the requirements for different jurisdictions within Australia. You must check with your local authorities to ensure the training we provide is adequate for your jurisdiction(s).
Note: We currently do not offer nationally accredited courses. see FAQs for more info
Updated 31/03/2022
NEW SOUTH WALES
Mandatory
You must be one or more of these
Training
QUEENSLAND
Your Own Equipment OR
Equipment Owned By Your Employer
As A Professional Service Provider
To Other Businesses or Individuals
Strongly recommend you contact the Queensland Electrical Safety Office for full details and clarification prior to undertaking a course
Note: Similar requirements apply to replacing a plug top or socket to a lead.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Mandatory
You must be one or more of these
Training
Any one of these
Source: safework.sa.gov.au
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Mandatory
You must be one or more of these
Training
Source: Worksafe W.A.
This information is general in nature, should be used as a guide only and read in conjunction with the relevant Standard(s), State and/or Federal Legislation and/or Regulations, Codes of Practice and Industry Standards and those specific to your workplace or place of operation. We do try to provide you with up to date and accurate information however, we accept no responsibility or liability arising from actions or decisions made as a result of the information provided, you must do your own research before acting on the information provided in this document or any related material. Further information can also be obtained from your local Workplace Authority, Electrical Safety Authority or suitably qualified persons. This article is copyright protected.