Test and Tag Workplace Guide Brisbane | Compliance Checklist
Everything Brisbane Businesses Need to Know About Electrical Test and Tag
Electrical test and tag is a workplace safety requirement that protects employees, customers and visitors from electrical hazards. Under Australian Work Health and Safety legislation, businesses must ensure all portable electrical equipment is regularly inspected and tested. For businesses across North Lakes, Redcliffe, Chermside, Brendale and Strathpine, this guide covers your compliance obligations.
What Is the Test and Tag Process?
- Create an asset register of all portable electrical equipment
- Visually inspect each item for damage to cords, plugs and casings
- Electrically test using a portable appliance tester (PAT)
- Attach a pass or fail tag with test date, next test date and tester details
- Remove failed items from service until repaired or replaced
- Maintain records for compliance audits
Testing Intervals by Workplace Type
| Workplace Type | Testing Interval | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Construction sites | Every 3 months | AS/NZS 3760 |
| Demolition sites | Every 3 months | AS/NZS 3760 |
| Factories and workshops | Every 6 months | AS/NZS 3760 |
| Commercial kitchens | Every 6 months | AS/NZS 3760 |
| Offices | Every 12 months | AS/NZS 3760 |
| Retail premises | Every 12 months | AS/NZS 3760 |
| Schools and childcare | Every 12 months | AS/NZS 3760 |
| Hire equipment | Before each hire | AS/NZS 3760 |
What Equipment Needs Testing?
All portable electrical equipment connected via a plug and cord, including:
- Power tools — drills, saws, grinders, heat guns
- Extension leads and powerboards
- Kitchen appliances — kettles, toasters, microwaves, coffee machines
- IT equipment — computers, monitors, printers, chargers
- Cleaning equipment — vacuums, floor polishers, steam cleaners
- Heaters, fans and portable air conditioners
- Test and measurement equipment
What Does Not Need Testing?
- Fixed (hardwired) equipment — these are covered by periodic electrical inspections
- Equipment under manufacturer warranty with no visible damage (visual check only on first use)
- Double-insulated equipment in low-risk environments may have extended intervals
Test and Tag Costs for Brisbane Businesses
| Volume | Cost Per Item (AUD) | Minimum Callout |
|---|---|---|
| Under 20 items | $5 – $10 | $100 – $200 |
| 20 – 50 items | $4 – $7 | Included |
| 50 – 100 items | $3 – $5 | Included |
| 100+ items | $2 – $4 | Included |
| Annual contract (quarterly testing) | $2 – $3 | Included |
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to maintain safe electrical equipment in the workplace can result in:
- WHS fines up to $3 million for corporations
- Personal fines for officers and managers up to $600,000
- Insurance claim denials for incidents involving untested equipment
- Workers compensation liability
- Criminal prosecution for serious incidents
How to Set Up a Test and Tag Program
- Appoint a responsible person to manage the program
- Create a complete asset register
- Determine testing intervals based on your workplace risk level
- Engage a licensed commercial electrician for testing
- Maintain records of all tests, results and actions taken
- Schedule recurring tests at the required intervals
- Train staff to visually inspect equipment before each use
Areas We Service Across Brisbane and North Brisbane
Connex Electrical provides expert electrical services across Brisbane and North Brisbane, including:
- North Lakes
- Redcliffe
- Mango Hill
- Griffin
- Kallangur
- Burpengary
- Morayfield
- Caboolture
- Chermside
- Aspley
- Everton Park
- Stafford
- Wavell Heights
- Murrumba Downs
- Rothwell
- Deception Bay
- Petrie
- Lawnton
- Strathpine
- Brendale
- Albany Creek
- Eatons Hill
- Warner
Our Full Range of Electrical Services
- Switchboard Upgrades
- Emergency Electrician
- Air Conditioning Installation
- Electrical Safety Inspections
- Surge Protection
- EV Charger Installation
- LED Lighting Installation
- Ceiling Fan Installation
- Smoke Alarm Installation
- Powerpoint Installation
- Residential Electrician
- Commercial Electrician
- Data Cabling
Need Test and Tag for Your Business?
Connex Electrical provides professional test and tag services with detailed compliance reporting for businesses across North Brisbane.
Call 0474 207 609 or visit our contact page to book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is test and tag mandatory in Queensland?
Yes. Under the Work Health and Safety Act, all businesses must ensure portable electrical equipment is safe. Test and tag is the accepted compliance method.
How often do office appliances need test and tag?
Office equipment in a standard office environment should be tested every 12 months under AS/NZS 3760.
Who can perform test and tag?
A competent person trained in PAT testing procedures. Using a licensed electrician provides the highest level of assurance.
What records do I need to keep?
Maintain an asset register with test dates, results, tester details and actions taken for failed items. Keep records for at least 5 years.
What happens if an item fails?
Failed items must be immediately removed from service, tagged as failed and either repaired by a qualified person or disposed of.