Category: Electrical Safety

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Ensuring Safety in the Workplace: Test and Tag Your Power Tools

No matter what type of tradesman you are, power tools are an essential part of the job. But when it comes to using power tools, safety should always be your top priority. That’s why it’s important to make sure your power tools are regularly tested and tagged to ensure they are safe to use. In this blog article, we’ll explore the benefits of testing and tagging for power tools, the legal requirements, and how to find a quality service provider.

 

Introduction to Test and Tag

Test and tagging of power tools is an important safety measure that helps to protect both the user and anyone else that may come into contact with the tool. It’s a process that involves testing the power tool to make sure it is safe to use, and then tagging it with a label that informs anyone using it of the results of the testing.

Test and tag of power tools is not a legal requirement for most tradespeople in New Zealand, however, it is required that the power tools are safe. This blog article will provide an overview of the benefits of test and tag, the legal requirements, and how to find a quality service provider.

The Benefits of Test and Tag for Power Tools

Test and tag of power tools can provide numerous benefits, including:

  • Improved safety: Test and tag ensure that the power tools are safe to use. This helps to protect the user, as well as anyone else that may come into contact with the tool.
  • Enhanced efficiency: Regularly testing and tagging power tools helps to ensure they are working as efficiently as possible, which can help to increase productivity.
  • Compliance: Test and tag is a sure way to deem the power tools as safe at the time of testing.
  • Peace of mind: Knowing that your power tools are safe to use can provide you with peace of mind, and ensure that you can focus on the job at hand.

What is Power Tool Testing?

Power tool testing is a process that involves testing the power tool to make sure it is safe to use. This is done by using specialized equipment to test the electrical safety of the tool, and to make sure it complies with the relevant safety regulations. The testing process can vary depending on the type of power tool, so it’s important to make sure you are using the right equipment for the job.

 

What is Tag & Label Testing?

Tag and label testing is a process that involves tagging the power tool with a label that informs anyone using it of the results of the testing. This label includes information such as the date of the testing and the name of the test and tag service provider.

Tag and label testing is an important part of the test and tag process, as it provides a visible reminder of when the power tool was tested and that it is safe to use. It’s important to make sure you are using the right type of label for the job, as some labels may not be suitable for certain types of power tools.

 

How to Ensure Your Power Tools are Safe

Ensuring that your power tools are safe to use is an important part of any tradesperson’s job. To ensure your power tools are safe, it’s important to:

  • Regularly inspect your power tools: Make sure to regularly inspect your power tools and check for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
  • Have a preventative maintenance schedule: Establish a preventative maintenance schedule and stick to it. This will help to ensure that any issues with your power tools are identified and addressed before they become a safety concern.
  • Test and tag regularly: Test and tag your power tools regularly to make sure they are safe to use.

 

Recommended Test and Tag Frequency

The recommended test and tag frequency for power tools depending on the type of tool and the environment in which it is used. Generally, it is recommended that power tools are tested and tagged at least every three months. However, some tools may need to be tested more frequently.

The Risks of Not Test and Tagging Power Tools

Not testing and tagging your power tools can lead to a number of risks, including:

  • Injury: Not testing and tagging your power tools can put the user and anyone else that may come into contact with the tool at risk of injury.
  • Damage to property: Not testing and tagging your power tools can cause damage to property and the power tool itself.
  • Non-compliance with legal safety requirements: Not testing and tagging your power tools can result in non-compliance with the relevant legal requirements, which can lead to fines and other penalties.
  • Loss of productivity: Not testing and tagging your power tools can lead to a loss of productivity, as the tools may not be working as efficiently as possible or may be unsafe to use.

 

How to Find a Test and Tag Service Provider

When looking for a test and tag service provider, it’s important to make sure they are accredited and have the necessary experience and expertise to do the job properly. You should also make sure they are familiar with the relevant regulations, as this will help to ensure your power tools are compliant.

It’s also important to make sure the service provider is reliable and can provide a quality service. You can check online reviews to get an idea of the quality of the service provided.

 

Conclusion

Test and tagging of power tools is an important safety measure that can help to protect both the user and anyone else that may come into contact with the tool. It’s a legal requirement in most states and territories in Australia, so it’s important to make sure you are compliant with the relevant regulations.

Regularly testing and tagging your power tools can provide numerous benefits, including improved safety, enhanced efficiency, and peace of mind. It’s important to make sure you are using the right test and tag service provider and to test and tag your power tools at least every three months.

Get Metro Test to test and tag your power tools so you can be safe and make the most of your power tools. Our team of experienced and accredited technicians can provide high-quality test and tag services and make sure your power tools are safe to use. Contact us today to get started!

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Now is the right time to Test and Tag all your appliances

 

Has your electrical equipment been tested and tagged? The risk of not testing and tagging your equipment could be fatal. Metrotest caters to all test and tag services for your appliances, tools, and machinery to ensure that all electrical items are safe for use.

 

Schools

When was the last time your school had its equipment tested and tagged? If your equipment is new or not, live electrical equipment should always be tested and tagged to ensure its safety for operation. Metro Test owns a range of specialist equipment to certify the safety of all electrical appliances for schools’ peace of mind.

 

Commercial and factories

New Zealand’s official work safety standards require all businesses to ensure that their electrical appliances and equipment are safe. Testing and tagging your equipment are a sure way to safeguard your equipment from injury to others and damage to property in the event of a malfunction.

Testing and labeling your equipment as safe at the time the test was performed will help catch potentially fatal equipment which gives the opportunity to make remedies before any serious harm or damage can be done.

Metro Test offers special pricing for commercial customers, learn how you can assess the safety of your equipment here.

 

Test and tag all appliances

It is an employer’s responsibility to take all practical steps to ensure the safety of their employees whilst they are at work. Employers should test and tag all appliances to ensure their safety.

This includes:
• Checking for obvious damage
• Checking all operation controls are working as intended
• Checking all electrical cords are free from damage or strain
• Checking covers and guards are unobstructed.

Tradespeople’s power tools

Metro Test offers products and services to test trade-designed power tools and machinery. Get your power tools tested to ensure the safety of the tools and machinery. Operating these tools could risk serious harm or damage to property. Some worksites require that all tools and machinery be tested and tagged for safety.

Inspection and testing should be assessed by a competent professional. This person is not required to be licensed but should have great expertise in the field.

Call Metro Test today and discover what appliances and equipment may be defective in your workplace and how they can be prevented.

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RCD vs PRCD: Why are they needed?

A portable RCD is an essential part of any testers kit for any test & tag job. But what are they and why are they so vital for testing and tagging electrical devices. More importantly, how do portable RCD differ from a regular RCD?

What is a RCD?

A Residual Current Device is used to prevent electrical shocks or electrical fires. By measuring the current in a system it can detect whether the electricity is flowing through an unintended path and automatically shut off the circuit. For example if electricity enters a person the residual Current Device will cut the power before it can give you too nasty a shock. Potentially saving a life or preventing an electrical fire.

Typically you can find RCDs throughout your home in places such as in the fuse box. They may also be built into socket outlets and some extension cords.

Fire_test_and_tag

What is a PRCD?

A portable RCD is an especially useful piece of kit for any electrician or tester. By having a PRCD the user can guarantee their safety when working with an appliance that is of safety concern. It can plug into any standard socket and automatically cut the power when it detects any issues.

In fact, portable RCDs are so important they are often built into portable appliance testers. 

Whether you are a professional or planning on doing any DIY involving appliances, an RCD is a must have. Metrotest has a selection of reliable RCDs to choose from. Visit our store or get in contact with us to find the right portable RCD for you.

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A Short Guide to PAT Calibration Services

Every now and then, businesses and companies need to have their electrical equipment tested for safety. This way, both customers and the employees of a company are protected from harm or accidents caused by a faulty device. Some of the common hazards brought in by a defective equipment includes electrocution, fire and intermittent connection.

This is why it’s important for business to ensure that the appliances used are deemed safe. So, this where where the Portable Appliance Testing or PAT tester comes in. It’s a specialised device used to assess whether the appliance meets the standard safety guidelines.

What is a PAT tester?

When assessing an equipment, an engineer or tester does a basic visual inspection of the piece of equipment. It could include looking at the cables, checking the insulation or finding any exposed metal parts. After the initial test, a more thorough examination comes in using the PAT tester, a more thorough assessment is in order. The test could include earth continuity, insulation resistance and lead polarity. When calibrated properly, the PAT tester can provide accurate readings.

How often do you need to calibrate a PAT testing device?

Just like any other testing equipment, a PAT tester also needs to regular calibration. A poorly calibrated device can result in an inaccurate assessment. It’s highly recommended to calibrate the tester you use once every 12 months. This holds true for any type of PAT tester.

Here at Metrotest, we don’t only provide calibration services. We offer MedCal or Medical + Calibration service for your PAT tester. Besides calibrating the equipment, we will open the equipment and find signs of potential issues such as internal wiring problem, damaged parts, defective batteries and overheated components.

 How much do PAT Calibration services cost?

The cost of calibrating and repairing a PAT equipment varies. To give you an idea of the rough cost of having your PAT tester calibration service, check the table below.

Seaward 3760, Aegis Patrol, TNT el, Kyoritsu 6201A Portable Appliance Testers (No adjustment available)

Calibration Check (for the above testers):

 

$150 plus GST
Metrel DeltaPAT MI300, AlphaPAT MI2142, Megger 150, EasiPAT 2/10, Seaward 3760 DL Portable Appliance Testers

Calibration Check & Adjustment where adjustment is possible

$220+gst
Metrel BetaPAT MI3303/MI3304/MI2141, Metrel SigmaPAT MI3310, Seaward Europa, Ethos 9600 Seaward Supernova, Portable Appliance Testers

Calibration Check & Adjustment where adjustment is possible

$290 plus GST
Sonel MetroIPAT , Meggar PAT 4, Meggar 420

Calibration Check & Adjustment (if required and possible)

$390 plus GST
 

If you would like to avail the MedCal service, check out the additional charges below:

Electrical Test Instrument$55+ gst
Printer Only$55 +gst
PAT and Printer$90+ gst

Ready to book a PAT calibration service?

Make sure your PAT tester is working properly. This way, you get to avoid getting a false or inaccurate assessment when you check the quality of the appliances or equipment you use in the workplace.

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What to look for in a Portable Appliance Tester

It is no secret that Metrotest believe in making sure you get the best tester for carrying out test and tag of appliances in the workplace.

This is why we test and trial Portable appliance testers before we start selling them, over the years we have found a few things that we think will help you decide on the best tester for you or your company.

we would consider it very unwise to purchase a PAT that does not do a leakage test at mains supply along with the following:

Earth Bond Class I – 200mA, 10 and 25Amps.

The Earth on an appliance is your lifeline and should be tested accordingly; the 200mA test is suitable for IT or sensitive type equipment however if you want to test something for safety then the best option is to ensure the item is tested at a high current. This will help to eliminate items that have begun to develop a fault but may not be able to be found using the lower current test.

Related Standards:

  1. AS/NZS 3004.1:2014 Electrical installations – Marinas and boats – Part 1: Marinas
  2. AS/NZS 3001:2008 Electrical Installations – Transportable structures and vehicles including their site supplies
  3. AS/NZS 3002:2008 Electrical installations – Shows and carnivals
  4. AS/NZS 3012:2019 Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites
  5. AS/NZS 3019:2007 Electrical installations – Periodic verification
  6. AS/NZS 3551:2012 Management programs for medical equipment
  7. AS/NZS 5761:2011 In-service safety inspection and testing – Second-hand electrical equipment prior to sale
  8. AS/NZS 5762:2011 In-service safety inspection and testing – Repaired electrical equipment
  9.          Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010

  10. AS/NZS 3760:2010 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment

Regulation 26: When fittings and appliances in use deemed to be electrically safe

250- and 500-Volt Insulation Test

Insulation testing is required under the AS/NZS 3760 however there is a very important part of this that needs to be considered; surge protected equipment will not handle being tested at 500V, if you purchase a tester that does not carry out a 250V insulation test, you will need to either carry out a leakage test or completely forget about testing surge protected equipment.

Load Test (Leakage Test)

This is the preferred test to meet obligations under AS/NZS3760 and is required to be carried out on any equipment that has internal switching resulting in the item being required to be powered up before it can be correctly assessed for electrical safety. There are several types of leakage testing, some of which are not suitable for meeting the requirement of AS/NZS3760.

Example:

You will need to be able to carry out a differential leakage test on three phase equipment to ensure the equipment works correctly, this is often carried out using a clamp and adaptor lead.

An insulation resistance test will not truly meet the requirements of the AS/NZS3760 in this instance.

Stores Results/Downloadable – entered via a keypad

Results/records are important and since the recent release of the updated AS/NZS3012 they are becoming more common a request from auditors, the easiest way to be able to prove that you are testing/having your equipment tested correctly is to have full records available with numerical values that show exactly what was tested and how, the numerical results should show the values of the tests that were carried out thereby eliminating risk of fraudulent testing.

All of these suggestions are made by a company that carries out test and tag as our core business, we do not simply sell portable appliance testers or test and tag training we are a test and tag business with years of experience designing and perfecting test equipment for our own use. Now we are sharing it with you.

 

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Cotton On Powerbanks Recalled for Safety Issue

Do you own one of these Cotton On power bank chargers? Stop using it right now.

According to Product Recalls NZ, these slim pocket power charger banks have the potential to overheat and pose risk of fire and electric shock. These were sold between the period of 26 October 2018 – 29 January 2019, both in store and online.

The recall, which was issued on 26th March, applies to style numbers: 419501 to 419502 with colour codes from 01-23. You will see the style and colour code number on the back of the power bank packaging.

According to Product Recalls, the product does not comply with relevant electrical safety standards and poses the risk of fire and electric shock. You definitely don’t want it on you all the time or left plugged at home. We know they’re stylish and convenient to use, but they are not worth taking chances with.

Consumers are advised to stop using the product or return it to any Cotton On or Cotton On BODY store for a refund.

Most power banks tend to heat up quickly because of the inbuilt lithium-ion battery. They typically have higher capacity (mAH rating) which means they will draw more current from the charger when plugged in. Since power banks demand more power, the charger needs to supply top-rated current value for a longer duration of time, causing extra heat generation. And because these particular power banks from Cotton On are small and have no heat protection, the fire risk due to overheating is higher.

To prevent your power bank from overheating, make sure to use the correct charger. Some chargers like those used for tablets are rated for 1 or 2A, and are more suitable for charging portable chargers. It may also be worth to have your charger checked for compliance, as this could be another safety risk. Using an incorrect or noncompliant charger could result in overheating or cause damage to your power bank as well as your phone.

Here at Metrotest, we always talk about electrical safety. It’s important to ensure that all electrical devices, whether in your home or in your workplace, have had a test and tag and are approved as safe to use. If you’re an employer, it might be worth checking what kinds of devices your employees are bringing and plugging in the workplace. It only takes one single overheating device to breach your work safety measures.

Stay safe!