The safety integrity of an electrical appliance is determined by subjecting each appliance, to the appropriate visual and electrical test procedure as required by the standard AS/NZS 3760 2003.

 Using state-of-the-art Portable Appliance Tester, OzTag carries out the following testing procedures:

Tests with the Portable Appliance Tester: 

§         Insulation test - This test is used to verify that adequate insulation exists between the mains supply pins and the earth.

§         Earth bond test - This test is to ensure that the connection between the earth pin in the mains plug and the metal casing of the appliance is satisfactory and of sufficiently low resistance.

§         Continuity test- Tests for open or short circuits.

§         Polarity wire test - Tests for correct pin configuration.

§         Leakage test - This test shows the current being lost though leakage as the difference in the currents flowing in the live and neutral conductors while the appliance is powered and running.

§         Functionality test - This test is for correct push button or switching operation of an appliances or the plugging operation of a connector.

Visual Inspections

§         Check for obvious external damage

§         Check defects-accessories, plugs or socket outlets

§         Check defects on connectors, casing or switches

§         Check supply cords

§         No exposed inner cords, external sheath not cut or damaged

§         Check cords are not tangled or exposed for tripping

 Following the test procedure, a thermal label is printed on site. This label meets the requirements stated in the AS/NZS 3760:2203 standard as it incorporates the following information.

§         Appliance bar code identity;

§         Description / serial number (if required);

§         Inspection Test Date;

§         Next Inspection Test Date;

§         Results of Inspection / Test;

§         Testing technician

§         Logo/name of client (if required) 

Reports and Certificates:  (Sample Report)

All data collected, including location and test results, will be integrated into one centrally administered database. OzTag will deliver a copy of this report which is required under the AS/NZS 3760 Standard to be kept on the site where the appliances are used.

Ownership of the data (legal responsibility) is that of the clients.

The OzTag Asset Register and Test Certificates include the following information:

§    Appliance bar code identity

§    Description / serial number (if required)

§    Location: Includes; Type / Company / Site / Building / Level / Room

§    Inspection Test Date

§    Next Inspection Test Date

§    Test technician

§    PAT serial number

§    Results of Inspection / Test

§    Comments

§    Certificate of Compliance1

Time taken to test:

The time taken will depend on the appliance. The average time taken to thoroughly visual inspect, PAT test, label and re-plug an appliance is 5 to 10 minutes. This is an estimate only and will depend on the access and state of appliance.

Approximately 100 appliances can be tested and tagged per day per testing technician.

Failed Appliances: 

If an appliance fails any tests it must be removed from service immediately. If it cannot be removed due to size or situation, appropriate warning signage will be applied indicating the appliance is unsafe to operate.

A nominated secure site is required to place any failed equipment.

Repairs to Equipment that fail to pass the inspection:

 OzTag can administer the repairing of equipment that fails the tests. This will reduce the down time of the item. 

For most IEC leads, extension leads and power boards that don't pass the inspection, OzTag keep a supply on hand to replace these items minimizing down time and inconvenience.

 Repairs to plug tops and sockets can take place on-site and the item returned to service immediately.