Short answer: In NSW, a business must make sure plug-in electrical equipment used in a “hostile” environment (exposed to moisture, heat, vibration, mechanical damage, chemicals or dust) is regularly inspected and tested by a competent person. SafeWork NSW suggests at least every 12 months as a general rule, more often for workshops, cleaning and hire equipment. Records must be kept, and a tag can be the record. Low-risk offices aren’t automatically covered, but a risk assessment still applies.
“Do we need to test and tag?” is one of the most common questions small business owners ask. The answer in NSW depends on what the equipment is and where it’s used. This guide explains the rules in plain English, based on SafeWork NSW guidance.
This is general information. Check the SafeWork NSW resources linked below and get advice for your workplace.
The rule in one paragraph
Under the NSW Work Health and Safety Regulation (clause 150), a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must ensure electrical equipment is regularly inspected and tested by a competent person if it’s plugged into a socket outlet and used where its normal use exposes it to conditions likely to damage it or shorten its life. That’s how the SafeWork NSW Code of Practice for managing electrical risks puts it.
What counts as a hostile environment?
SafeWork NSW lists conditions that involve exposure to:
- moisture
- heat
- vibration
- mechanical damage
- corrosive chemicals
- dust
Examples include wet or dusty areas, outdoors, workplaces using corrosive substances, commercial kitchens and manufacturing. Construction and demolition sites have their own, stricter rules.
| Workplace | Likely hostile environment? |
|---|---|
| Commercial kitchen or cafe | Yes |
| Workshop or factory | Yes |
| Hair or beauty salon (wet areas) | Often |
| Retail shop floor | Depends on equipment and use |
| Typical office | Often not, but assess the risk |
| Construction site | Separate, specific requirements |
How often?
The Code of Practice gives general guidance:
| Equipment | Suggested interval |
|---|---|
| Equipment in hostile environments (general rule) | At least every 12 months |
| Manufacturing and workshop equipment | For example, at least every 6 months |
| Commercial cleaning equipment | For example, at least every 6 months |
| Hire equipment | Inspect at the start of each hire and test every 3 months |
AS/NZS 3760 (In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment) and the manufacturer’s recommendations give more detail. A competent person can advise intervals for your workplace.
Who can do it?
Testing must be done by a competent person. SafeWork NSW says this includes a person licensed or registered to do electrical work, and in some situations a person who has completed a structured training course and been deemed competent to use a pass/fail portable appliance tester. Whoever does it must be able to interpret the results.
Records you must keep
According to SafeWork NSW, a record of testing must be kept until the equipment is next tested, permanently removed from the workplace or disposed of. It must state:
- the name of the person who did the testing
- the date of testing
- the outcome
- the date the next test is due
The record can be a tag attached to the equipment, which is where “test and tag” comes from.
What about untested equipment?
If equipment is required to be tested and hasn’t been, the business must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that it isn’t used. Lock it away or tag it out of service until it’s tested.
Beyond test and tag
Test and tag covers plug-in equipment. It doesn’t cover:
- fixed wiring, power points and switchboards, which should be maintained by a licensed electrician
- safety switches, which also need regular testing; see safety switch rules in NSW
- emergency and exit lighting, which has its own six-monthly testing; see emergency and exit lighting requirements
Practical tips for small businesses
- List your equipment and where it’s used.
- Do a simple risk assessment to decide which items are in hostile conditions.
- Set a schedule and put the next due date in your calendar.
- Train staff to do a quick visual check before use: damaged cords, cracked plugs, scorch marks.
- Remove damaged items immediately.
- Avoid daisy-chaining power boards; if you need more outlets, add power points.
Need more power points, a safer switchboard or electrical work at your business? See commercial electrical in Ashfield or call 0421 772 661 to talk about your workplace.
Fitting out a new space?
Plan enough outlets and circuits for your equipment from the start, so you’re not relying on power boards. See shop and office fit-out electrical. We work with businesses in Marrickville, Croydon, Newtown and Stanmore.
Frequently asked questions
Is test and tag mandatory in NSW?
For plug-in equipment used in hostile operating environments at a workplace, regular inspection and testing by a competent person is required under the WHS Regulation. Other workplaces should assess the risk.
How often should equipment be tested and tagged in NSW?
SafeWork NSW suggests at least every 12 months as a general rule in hostile environments, more often for workshops, commercial cleaning (around 6 months) and hire equipment (3 months).
Who can test and tag in NSW?
A competent person, such as a licensed electrician or someone who has completed structured training and been deemed competent to use a pass/fail tester.
Does an office need test and tag?
Not automatically. Many office environments aren’t hostile, but the business should still assess risks and keep equipment safe.