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Test and tag training online 2025: what to expect

It’s a new year and with a fresh start so it’s a great time to look at training, particularly online training options. Here at Metrotest we have big plans for training in 2025 and those include online training options and further improvements.

Because we added so much new content in late 2024, we thought it may be a good idea as we kick off the new year to bring you up to speed with options available for training online in 2025. 

Now, just before we dive into online training options, I should mention, just because Metrotest is offering more online options, doesn’t mean we won’t be offering face-to-face training. We are still and will continue in the future to offer in-person training and will continue to be the largest distributed training provider across NZ. 

That being said, as we move into the future, more and more companies and clients like the option between online or in-person training. 

 

What’s the difference between Online and face-to-face training?  

 

When it comes to what you are trained to perform; nothing.  You will get the same quality and training whether you do it online or face-to-face. How you get that training and the process is just different. 

On the plus side, doing it online means you can do it at your own pace in your own time, whereas a face-to-face course is scheduled ahead of time and you have to attend in person. This can be a plus if you want the hands-on experience with a tester and to possibly see other trainees’ testers that they could bring to a course. However, with online training, you still get time with a tester and one-on-one time with an experienced, electrically qualified trainer. 

Both are different avenues to training but end with the same result; you are deemed competent to test and tag.  Some individuals will have a preference for either online or in-person training depending on how techno-savvy you are. We have kept this in mind and have tried to create online training that is easy for even less tech-savvy people to use. 

 

Online training options: what’s available?

When it comes to online training it might surprise you to know that Metrotest offers more than your standard online test and tag course. So, let’s go through what is offered. 

1. Bronze, Silver and Gold Course: your standard AS/NZS 3760 Course. 

 

We do things a little bit differently with our initial training, we break it into three levels; Bronze, Silver and Gold. Now we have done this for several reasons. Firstly, we offer Bronze free which allows you to dip your toes into doing the training online and if you feel online isn’t for you, you haven’t lost anything but a little of your time. It also makes our initial course more modular, building off each level and not trying to overwhelm the trainee.

Don’t worry, even though we have broken it into several sections, it isn’t more expensive, in fact, it comes out more than $100 cheaper than any other training available online! Same quality cheaper price. Our Bronze, Silver and Gold gives you everything you need to learn how to safely and competently carry out testing and tagging. 

 

Price: 

Bronze: Free

Silver & Gold: $310.00 inc GST

Links: 

Initial: https://www.metrotest.co.nz/training-courses/online-training-courses/

2. AS/NZS3760 Online Refresher Course

refresher front

This course is for those who have completed an initial training course and want or need to renew their training. It is designed to refresh your knowledge of test and tag, update you on any Standard changes and make sure you haven’t developed any bad habits that should be corrected. 

This course works with Metrotest’s voluntary license system that allows companies to have peace of mind and meet the health and safety requirements of companies where a trainee has indeed been trained and kept their training up to date. 

 

Price: $144.90 inc GST

Link: https://www.metrotest.co.nz/product/retraining/ 

3. 3-Phase Online Training

Recently, Metrotest has created a 3-phase training course for those who have successfully completed an initial 3760 course and want to become competent in testing 3-phase equipment. This is a specialized course and isn’t for everyone, but if you are looking at upgrading your skills and doing 3-phase testing, this course could be for you. What’s great with this course is that we have designed it so you can perform a practical 3-phase assessment without needing to have any expensive  3-phase equipment of your own!

 

Price: $210.00 inc GST

Link: https://www.metrotest.co.nz/product/3-phase/ 

4.  AS/NZS 3551 Medical Training/Refresher Training 

I am really excited about this one as Metrotest has put a lot of work into these courses and proudly we are the only current provider who offers this training online throughout NZ and most of Australia! This course is for those who have done an initial AS/NZS3760 test and tag course and need/want to perform test and tag in medical environments. It’s important to note that testing medical equipment in a medical environment or electrical equipment around patients needs to be tested to a different standard which is the AS/NZS 3551 and more specifically Appendix B of the standard. This course teaches you the differences in testing and how to test medical equipment in accordance with Appendix B of the standard. 

 

We of course also offer an Online AS/NZS 3551 Refresher Training which is a smaller training course designed to refresh the trainees on best practices and fill any gaps in their knowledge from their initial 3551 training. 

 

Price: 

Initial: $494.50 inc GST

Refresher: $276.00 inc GST

Links: 

Initial: https://www.metrotest.co.nz/product/as-nzs-3551-initial-course/ 

Refresher: https://www.metrotest.co.nz/product/as-nzs-3551-refresher-course/ 

5. Test and Tag Standards Safety Managers Course 

This course, although it has health and safety managers in the title, is for any manager, company owner or individual who just wants to know more about testing and tagging their workplace and what they should or shouldn’t be doing. Its great for those who are just wanting to know more or find out what to expect from someone carrying out the testing for their company. It will help you get your head around all the Standards relating to test and tag.

 

What’s even better is this course is free! You can find all the information you would need to stay informed as a manager about the test and tag industry, being able to review back to it as you need to. Metrotest is currently as at the time of this blog, the only provider who offers any free courses to get your toes dipped into test and tag so check it out; its free!

 

Price: Free

Link: https://www.metrotest.co.nz/product/safety-managers-course/ 

 

Conclusion:  

That’s the current online courses offered by Metrotest, but in 2025 we have big things planned, so look out for updates coming soon. Have you got any recommendations or questions regarding our training? Perhaps you just have some questions about training in general? Metrotest is happy to help and answer any questions you may have. Feel free to give us a call on 0800 638 768. 

 

Happy Testing everyone!

 

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How Often Do I Have To Test and Tag in New Zealand

If you follow our test and tag news you will know that we have covered this question many times in the past. Today’s information is more of a rehash and summary of what’s most important for you to know. 

 

To answer this quickly here is a summary to the question.  

 

How often electrical appliances should be inspected depends mainly on the type of environment where they are used or located. 

The general guidelines are as follows:

  • New appliances – before initial use
  • Building sites –every three months
  • Factories – every six months
  • Commercial workplaces, offices and most other applications – yearly or up to 5 years in some situations.

The AS/NZ 3760:2010 (Table 4) sets the minimum required standard interval for test and tag frequency in New Zealand. The frequencies may vary according to each workplace’s specific risk management practices and OHS planning.

The Following Table 4 from AS/NZ 3760 Test and Tag Intervals gives you a deeper insight of test and tag requirements and is shown as follows:

Test and Tag Table

Metrotest have been test and tagging for nearly 30 years in New Zealand. Not only have we helped many professionals over the years but most importantly we pride ourselves as the leaders in the Test and Tag industry by maintaining high standards of safety to the public, providing Test and Tag Training to professionals and helping manufacturers with test and tag appliance design and testing.

 

Our website contains a wealth of knowledge which we are confident you can benefit from. Should you need assistance or have questions you cannot find answers to, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

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Worst PAT testers for 2024

 

It’s a new year and it’s time for a new review. You may have read our best testers for 2024. So we were thinking, what about the worst ones, which testers should you avoid buying in 2024?

 

One reason why we thought of this list is because of the updated standard; the AS/NZS3760:2022 which has made several changes that your workplace should be aware of which you can also find a link to here (link). We also want to make sure you don’t end up spending thousands of dollars buying a lemon.

So we have broken it down into several areas, which we think are important to look at when it comes to what not to buy in 2024.

Keep in mind every person’s needs are different so one of these testers may still be suitable to your individual needs and at the end of the day you should make an informed decision before deciding on what tester to use. This likely includes:

  • Data and reporting features
  • Safety features
  • Future-proofing/upgradability
  • Testing functions

These areas revolve around the updated Standard and the updated requirements, which put a stronger focus on detailed results being recorded and kept.

 

1. Kyoritsu 6201A

 

This little tester we must say would have caused some users a few headaches. It has one usability problem where the mains power supply cord and IEC cord can accidentally be plugged into the wrong socket during testing which can result in some smoke if you know what I mean.

Not surprisingly this tester has a simple pass or fails function during test and tag, no numeral values that can be used for tags, even written tough test tags. Sad to say this tester doesn’t have much going for it and even as a resell we would say steer clear of it. We can say it’s no sad loss that it is no longer produced as it has no real upgradability options either. While you may be tempted by the price of one for sale as a second hand we would recommend the much newer and more well-designed Kyoritsu 6205 which will give you all those basic features for still a really reasonable price from the same manufacturer. 

2.  Seaward PAC3760 DL

 

This one may be a little controversial for those Seaward lovers out there but we have to mention this little battery-powered tester because of the areas we are reviewing testers on. Firstly, we have to say as an entry-level tester for those not wanting to spend too much, it could be a good option with simple upgradable features like a printer. However, we are in 2024 and this tester shows its age when you realize you can’t have the option of a wireless printer, which several other entry-level testers do and you can forget about any wireless or Bluetooth options.

 

In regards to other features, it’s great that it does give you numerical test values but it doesn’t give you the option of a 10A earthbond continuity test function, a true safety test over a compliance test. Adding to test functions, you can use it to do 3-phase testing but from what experience we have had, and customer’s experiences, its usability isn’t great and you could find better options even in the same price bracket that are more user-friendly for the average Joe.

Lastly, while it’s great that this little tester can allow you to download your test results you are limited in options of creating reports. Don’t expect an app for this tester so a phone or tablet is out for usability, instead, you have the CD shipped with the tester, which, in 2024 how many computers are made with a CD drive – we could be wrong though.

All around we do love the durability and size of this tester and when it was first released it had some advanced features for the entry-level user but now it’s showing its age and you would be better off getting something that has more future-proofed features.

3.  Aegis Patrol Pro CZ5001

 

Currently, no longer in production, the Aegis Patrol Pro is a tester that in 2024 we would highly recommend stays on the shelf. It may be tempting to pick up one of these testers cheap second hand on eBay but you could end up paying more in the long run. The Aegis Patrol Pro doesn’t meet the updated AS/NZS3760: 2022 Standard. 

Let’s begin with its useability, yes, it is simple to use with push button features but while this can be a benefit, in the Aegis Patrol Pros case, it becomes its Achilles heel as it doesn’t give you numerical test results, rather just a pass or fail indication. This is compounded by the fact that you won’t know why exactly it has failed and by how much. Pass or fail indications aren’t suitable for the updated standard.

Of course, being in the lower tier of PAT testers, you aren’t going to have any data capture or recording features and you can forget about upgradable options like a printer.

In the way of testing, you also aren’t given any option for testing PRCD which is a must-have and bare minimum for a tester and if you are a builder or plumber needing to get your PRCD’s tested, it isn’t going to cut it.

In 2024, we really would say resist the temptation of getting this cheap tester and look for something else that gives you data capture, essential test options and upgradable solutions.

 

4. Wavecom TNT -el

 

The brand that prides itself on being Australian-made, and we don’t have anything against Australian testers, it is just not all are created equal. To start off this tester is small, great for the average tradie needing to keep it in the back of the van.

We also have to say there are options here for this tester, having other models; the TNT RCD and the TNT Titan. The base model here isn’t going to give you some important functionality; RCDs are a no-go as you will need the TNT RCD or above so think carefully before purchasing this tester model. You may not need to test RCDs now but what about a year from now? It’s better to have this feature and not need it than to need it and not have it, an expensive mistake for $700.

While we do appreciate that we get numerical values of test results with this tester, it has to be said you aren’t going to be doing any printing or downloading of data with this particular tester, you’ll at least need the TNT Titan for that. Your options on software are pretty limited too, being limited to their WinPATs reporting software.

We have to say that while we love the aesthetic design of the tester and its futuristic look it isn’t very forward thinking but as we have already stated it does have other versions more suitable but we have to wonder, is it really good value for money? Yes, it’s cheaper but in the long run, it could cost you more money as its base model isn’t upgradable so you will have to buy another tester on top of it once your needs change. A big fat no from Metrotest, check out their TNT Titan instead from the same manufacturer.

Conclusion:

And that’s our, most probably, controversial list of what testers not to buy in 2024. However, that’s just our opinion and maybe you disagree. Whatever your opinion is, we highly encourage you to do your own research first. If you get stuck Metrotest is always here to help, so why not give us a call today or check out our other article on the best testers for 2024?

Safe testing everyone!

 

 

 

 

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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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Testing and Tagging Commercial Spaces

Commercial testing and tagging services ensure that appliances are safe and ready to use in a commercial environment. New Zealand work safety standards outline requirements for companies to make sure their electrical appliances are safe. One solution is to test and tag your appliances.

Continue reading Testing and Tagging Commercial Spaces

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Why Test and Tag Training is Absolutely Necessary

Legally to Test and Tag under the AS/NZS3760 standard one does not need to be an electrician. However, one must be deemed competent in order to test and tag. The best way for you to build up your confidence and competence is to take one of our test and tag PAT training courses. 

Legally you are not required to do any training before you go out and start testing. So, why then would one go out of their way to train themselves? Sure you could save yourself a couple bucks, but let’s look at some of the reasons why test and tag PAT training is necessary in 2022.

Test and Tag: Health and Safety 

Testing and tagging can actually be rather dangerous. Typically certified electricians are ones testing and tagging. However this isn’t always the case. Since regular people can buy themselves a portable appliance tester and start tagging, they may not know the significance or danger presented by electricity. Even then, because the standard does not require any kind of training to legally tag a blasé approach may lead to mistakes. After all, the AS/NZS3760 provides a process to reduce the risk of electrical shock to users of electrical equipment. Not following the standard may put yourself in danger.

Companies who test and tag their appliances tend to have strict health and safety policies. These policies are designed to limit their liability. Furthermore, health and safety legislation in New Zealand requires portable devices to be free from defects. Professional training can be one way of meeting these requirements.

Liability: Understanding the standard

Although the standard does not technically restrict who can test and tag, it does outlines what is required of a technician. These regulatory requirements include record keeping, tag information and who can do what. This list is by no means exhaustive.

Negligence of these requirements could see you personally liable in the event of an accident caused by improper test and tag procedures. Knowing your stuff is the best way to ensure the service you provide is quality and safe.

Whether you are doing your own DIY testing or are planning to work as a test and tag specialist it is vital that you get the necessary training. Failure to follow the regulations could land you a fine of upwards of $10,000!

Book a test today or contact us online today.