Electrical Test & Tag: Complete Guide (NSW)

Non-compliant electrical equipment isn't just a paperwork problem — it's a real safety risk. In NSW, businesses have a duty of care to keep electrical equipment safe for workers and customers. Electrical test and tag is one of the simplest ways to reduce risk and prove compliance.

This guide covers what electrical test and tag is, who needs it, how often it's required, what gets tested, common failures we see on-site, and how to choose a provider.

What is electrical test & tag?

Electrical test and tag (portable appliance testing / PAT) is a process that includes:

• A visual inspection for damage (cords, plugs, casings)
• Electrical testing using calibrated equipment
• A safety tag applied to each item showing test date and next due date
• A digital compliance report/certificate for your records

Who needs test and tag in NSW?

If your workplace uses portable electrical equipment, you likely need test and tag. Common examples include:

• Construction sites (tools, leads, portable RCDs)
• Offices (computers, monitors, kettles, chargers)
• Retail (POS systems, signage, fridges)
• Gyms (treadmills, sound systems)
• Warehouses (chargers, tools, portable equipment)
• Childcare/education (kitchen appliances, admin equipment)
• Medical (portable devices, admin equipment)
• Strata/common areas (portable equipment and shared appliances)

How often is test and tag required?

Testing frequency depends on the environment and risk level. As a practical guide:

If you're unsure, we'll confirm the right schedule for your site and set you up with automatic reminders so you don't miss a due date.

What gets tested?

We test portable, plug-in electrical equipment. Common items include:

• Power tools (drills, grinders, saws)
• Extension leads and power boards
• Kitchen appliances (kettles, microwaves)
• Computers, monitors, printers
• Portable heaters and fans
• Chargers and adaptors
• Portable RCDs (safety switches)

What happens during a test and tag visit?

1. •We identify all portable electrical items on-site
2. •We visually inspect each item for damage
3. •We electrically test each item with calibrated equipment
4. •We tag each item with pass/fail and next due date
5. •We issue a digital compliance certificate/report

Common failures we find

• Damaged cords and plugs (cuts, fraying, burn marks)
• Faulty earth connections
• Insulation breakdown (often from moisture or wear)
• Failed RCDs or slow trip times
• DIY repairs and unsafe adaptors

Pricing factors (what affects cost)

Test and tag pricing is usually volume-based — the more items, the lower the per-item rate. Other factors include site access, urgency, and whether you're bundling fire safety compliance.

For a fast quote, tell us your approximate item count and site type.

One-stop compliance: electrical + fire

Most workplaces also need fire safety checks (extinguishers, emergency/exit lights, fire blankets). We can bundle electrical test and tag with fire safety compliance in one visit — one provider, one appointment, one set of certificates.