Does New Equipment Need To Be Tested And Tagged?

In Australia, when the equipment is new, the supplier is deemed responsible for its initial electrical safety.

This means that any newly purchased equipment does not need to be electrically tested before its first use. However, it will still need to be visually inspected for any obvious damage and tagged correctly. 

What tag should be used for new equipment?

The correct tag to use in the case of new equipment is one that states its "New to Service". This particular test tag indicates that the item has not been electrically tested and will require testing at a further date.

Specifically, a New to Service Tag should include the following information:

• The wording: "New to Service"
• The date the equipment entered service
• The date when the next test is due
• A statement that the appliance has not been tested in accordance with AS/NZS 3760

A New to Service Tag is different to a standard test tag. A standard test tag confirms the item has been inspected and electrically tested. A New to Service tag simply shows that the item is new, has been visually inspected, and is due to be tested at the next scheduled test date.

AS/NZS 3760:2022 is the current version of the Standard used for in-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment. For new equipment, the approach remains that newly purchased items do not usually need to be electrically tested before first use, provided there are no signs of damage or reason to believe they are unsafe.

Using a New to Service test tags helps keep the item clearly identified, records when it entered service, and shows when the next test is due.

What about Second-Hand Equipment?

Second-hand equipment is different.

If you plan on reselling second-hand equipment, it's crucial to inspect, test, and label it properly to ensure the safety of the purchaser. This is to ensure the equipment is electrically safe and suitable for use.