Test & Tag Providers: How to Know They’re Testing Properly

PAT Testing
Every client has the right to expect a few non-negotiables from their Test & Tag provider. If these aren’t being met - or if the work isn’t up to the AS/NZS 3760 Standard - you could be at risk without even realising it. The reality is, not every provider does things by the book. Some cut corners, and unless you know what to look for, you may never realise. 

Here are five key essentials every client should require from their test and tag service provider:

1. Leakage Current Testing Must Be Recorded

Leakage current testing is a required test of the Australian Standard - it powers up the appliance to check if any electrical current is leaking while it’s running, the kind of fault that could cause serious injury.

Every client should expect this step to be done. If it’s skipped, the appliance hasn’t been properly tested. This test is essential for anything that must be energised to close or operate a switching device, for example, a motion-sensing hand dryer that needs the sensor triggered before the heater and fan run, or any device that’s microprocessor controlled.

If a leakage current test (differential for Class 1 and touch leakage for Class 2) is not performed on such a device, then that piece of equipment has not been tested properly.

Red flag: Some companies unfortunately skip this step because it takes longer to complete – simply meaning they’ll then have more time to test other appliances. But if you look at their reports and can’t see a column or line item showing leakage test results, that’s a pretty strong sign they’re not conducting the full test.

What to do: Ask for a copy of the test report and check that leakage current is listed against any appliances that requires this test (it won’t apply to leads and power boards).

2. Clear Test Reports

Your provider should give you a detailed report showing which tests were carried out and the results for each appliance. Not everyone testing and tagging does record test results – but according to the updated test and tag Standard, this is required if you are a test and tag service provider in New Zealand, and highly recommend in Australia.

Red Flag: Your report should show the type of test performed and the readings. A vague pass/fail with no readings recorded is not good enough.

What to do: Look for reports that clearly show insulation, earth, and leakage test results side by side. Ask your provider to explain what the numbers mean.

Electrical Safety Test Report for a Printer

3. Electrical Test Tags Should Tell the Story

Electrical Test Tags aren’t just there to look good – it’s proof that the appliance has been tested and when it’s next due to be checked again. Every piece of tagged equipment should have a label that includes the following information:

  • The Australian Standard reference (AS/NZS 3760)
  • Test date
  • Retest period
  • Company and/or person details

If any of the test tags don’t include this information, then the tag isn’t compliant.

Red flag: If tags are missing this information, or if you find test tags that are past their re-test date, the testing hasn’t been done in line with the standard.

What to do: Check a sample of test and tag labels across your site. Make sure they show the right details and haven’t lapsed. If you’re unsure, see our Test Tags Guide. You can also check out Test and Tag Colours Guide.

4. Every Client Requires Proper Testing

Did my equipment get tested properly? This is one of the most asked questions we hear, and it’s something you can check yourself (other than relying on a report).

A proper leakage current test requires the appliance to be powered on. If you can hear or see the appliance running-like a power tool spinning up or an appliance light coming on - that’s a good sign. It’s especially important for anything with a motor or electronic controls.

Red flag: If your provider is testing dozens of items in record time without you ever hearing gear switch on, they may be skipping leakage current checks.

5. Beware of the “Too Good to Be True” Pricing

If a company promises to test huge volumes of appliances in record time at bargain rates, chances are they’re cutting corners. Proper testing takes time - especially when leakage current is included. There are no shortcuts with this.

What to do: If in doubt—ask to see the testing data. A reputable test and tag service provider won’t hesitate to show you. For more detail on compliance requirements in your area, check out our state-based Test & Tag Regulations.