Electrical safety is a non-negotiable aspect of workplace management, particularly when equipment is constantly used. Understanding who is legally allowed to perform testing and tagging is a frequent source of confusion for employers and staff. Clear guidelines exist in Australia, yet they’re often buried in technical documents or misunderstood entirely.
This article aims to clarify what makes a person qualified to carry out test and tag procedures, why training matters, and how businesses can ensure they stay compliant with national standards while protecting workers from preventable electrical hazards.
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Who Is Allowed To Perform Test And Tag?
In Australia, only a competent person can test and tag electrical equipment. According to AS/NZS 3760:2022, a competent person has the necessary training, knowledge, and skills to carry out the task. This designation ensures that testing is performed accurately, reducing the likelihood of faulty equipment being used in the workplace.
Competency Requirements
To be considered competent, a person must:
- Complete a nationally recognised test and tag training course (e.g., UEERL0003)
- Be able to understand and apply relevant legislation and standards
- Use test equipment correctly and safely
While being a licensed electrician is not mandatory for testing and tagging, it is required for repairing electrical items. This distinction is important because it outlines the scope of responsibilities for those involved in test and tag procedures.
Completing a training course provides individuals with the foundational knowledge to understand different types of equipment, perform inspections, and use testing devices. They learn to recognise when equipment poses a safety risk and how to address it appropriately.
State-Specific Requirements
Each Australian state and territory follows the AS/NZS 3760 standard but may have additional legal stipulations.
Queensland
- Must hold a Restricted Electrical Contractors Licence or Electrical Contractors Licence to test and tag for others
- Must complete the UEERL0003 training unit
- These regulations ensure that only suitably qualified individuals offer services to external clients.
New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, ACT, NT, WA
- Completion of a structured training course like UEERL0003 is sufficient
- Individuals do not need to be electricians, but must prove competency
- These states focus on the assurance of proper training rather than licensing
Tasmania
- No specific licence is required to perform test and tag
- Individuals must still comply with AS/NZS 3760 and maintain workplace safety standards
- Although less stringent, employers must ensure employees are adequately trained
Understanding the differences between states helps businesses remain compliant regardless of location.
What Does The Training Involve?
Training courses, such as UEERL0003, cover all aspects of test and tag. The curriculum typically includes:
- Identifying different types of electrical equipment and associated risks
- Performing comprehensive visual inspections
- Conducting a range of electrical tests using PAT devices
- Interpreting results to determine equipment safety
- Applying tags accurately with the correct information
- Recording and maintaining test data for auditing purposes
Training usually takes one day and is delivered through registered training organisations (RTOs). Upon successful completion, participants receive a statement of attainment, confirming their competence.
Training also addresses real-world scenarios and common faults found during inspections. This practical approach ensures that individuals are qualified on paper and prepared to identify and manage safety risks in actual workplace settings.
Who Can Conduct Testing In A Business?
Any employee who has completed the necessary training can be assigned to perform test and tag duties within a business. This internal solution is commonly seen in:
- Construction companies manage a large inventory of tools and equipment
- Warehouses using a variety of electrical machinery
- Schools are responsible for maintaining safe classroom and kitchen appliances
- Offices that periodically assess computer and peripheral safety
Choosing to train existing staff provides several advantages. It reduces costs associated with hiring external providers and offers more flexibility for conducting tests as needed. In fast-paced or high-risk environments, having trained personnel on-site allows for immediate action when safety concerns arise.
Outsourcing To Professionals
Some businesses prefer to engage external professionals for test and tag services. This option is particularly suitable for smaller organisations or those without the capacity to train and equip staff.
Professional service providers:
- Have specialised knowledge and experience
- Bring calibrated testing equipment
- Offer compliance documentation for regulatory inspections
Outsourcing can also be beneficial when businesses need to manage a large volume of equipment within a tight timeframe. External providers can scale their services accordingly, ensuring timely and thorough testing without disrupting regular operations.
While more costly than internal testing, outsourcing delivers peace of mind through expert service and adherence to legal standards.
Can A Business Do Its Testing?
Yes. A business can legally perform its own test and tag processes, provided the individual conducting the tests is competent under the AS/NZS 3760 standard. This typically involves completing the UEERL0003 training unit.
Many organisations take this route to maintain control over the process, reduce long-term costs, and integrate safety procedures into daily routines. This is especially common in sectors where testing needs to occur frequently or on short notice.
In-house testing also makes maintaining records and monitoring equipment performance easier over time. Businesses create a structured and proactive approach to electrical safety by assigning responsibility to specific team members.
However, businesses must also ensure that internal testers have access to:
- Up-to-date testing equipment
- Calibration services
- Refresher training if necessary
These elements are essential to uphold the integrity and effectiveness of internal test and tag programs.
Conclusion
Testing and tagging electrical equipment is a safety-critical activity governed by AS/NZS 3760:2022. It can be performed by any competent individual who has completed suitable training and demonstrated the ability to conduct testing accurately and responsibly.
State-specific requirements may impose additional conditions, such as licensing in Queensland, but the primary focus nationwide is ensuring the individual has the right skills and knowledge. Businesses can manage testing internally by training staff or outsource the task to specialised professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Be An Electrician To Test And Tag Electrical Equipment?
No, you need not be a licensed electrician to test and tag. You can legally perform the task if you complete a nationally recognised training course, such as UEERL0003, and demonstrate competency in using test equipment and applying safety standards. Electricians are only required when repairing electrical equipment.
How Long Does A Test And Tag Qualification Last?
There is no set expiry for a test and tag qualification. However, it is recommended that individuals refresh their training periodically to stay updated with any changes to AS/NZS 3760 and maintain best practices. Employers should also ensure their staff remain competent and use calibrated equipment.
Can Any Employee In My Business Be Trained To Test And Tag?
Employees can be trained to test and tag if they complete the required training and demonstrate understanding of the procedures and regulations. Businesses often train internal staff to save on outsourcing costs and to manage testing more efficiently, especially in environments with high equipment usage.