Employees can only be productive if they know they are using safe electrical appliances. That is why facility managers must give workplace safety priority. Electrical testing and tagging is one way to guarantee the safety of electrical machines because it involves inspecting, testing and tagging portable electrical devices. For example, if an appliance is faulty, a tag indicates the same, thereby preventing use until the functionality is restored. That said, you should familiarise yourself with a few fundamentals regarding electrical testing and tagging.
Frequency of Test and Tag
Generally, portable electrical appliances should be tested and tagged based on usage and environment. Some gadgets undergo rigorous usage in harsh environments and must be tested and tagged regularly. For instance, the AS/NZS 3760 standard recommends that electrical appliances in the construction and demolition industry be tested and tagged after every three months. It is because the electrical cords constantly flex, which increases the rate of wear.
On the other hand, appliances which are used less regularly, and in relatively friendly environments such as microwaves or office printers, can be tested and tagged every five years. Follow these standards to protect your employees and electrical appliances.
Test and Tag Qualification
There is a misconception amongst facility managers that only a qualified electrician can test and tag electrical appliances. However, nothing could be further from the truth because AS/NZS 3760:2010 states that any competent person can test and tag workplace appliances. It means that an employee in the safety department can conduct testing and tagging services, but only after taking and passing a test and tag course. The course equips a learner with the right skills and knowledge to use a PAT tester, which is a mandatory piece of equipment for testing and tagging services. In other jurisdictions, you might need additional qualifications to perform electrical testing and tagging. For example, employees in Queensland need a Restricted Electrical Contractors Licence before qualifying as an electrical test and tag expert.
Test and Tag Information
The primary reason for testing and tag services is to ensure that electrical appliances are safe for use. However, this is only possible if you record the right information on the device in question. Therefore, once you have tested the electrical appliance, attach a durable tag on it, then record the date, problem found, if any, your name and the date for the next inspection and testing. The information is critical in appliance audits, especially in industries where electrical test and tag is a legal requirement.
For further tips, reach out to a local test and tag service.