Revised requirements for testing and tagging of electrical equipment

AS/NZS 3760:2010 has been replaced by AS/NZS 3760:2022 In-Service Safety Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment and RCDs.

The changes introduced in the new AS/NZS 3760:2022 are designed to make sure electrical equipment is regularly inspected and tested to improve safety and reduce the risks associated with electrical equipment.

For the most part, the updates to the Standard make it easier to read and understand, with additional explanation, extra dot points and more images of PAT testers. The key changes and areas to take note of include:

Additional Testing requirements

There are now additional testing requirements for certain types of equipment, including:

• RCD protected equipment

• Variable Speed Drives

• Arc welders.

Requirement for Competent Persons to keep skills up to date

The updated Standard explicitly states that a Competent Person needs to understand the risks associated with electrical equipment and maintain their skills and knowledge.

Greater guidance on the risk-based approach

More detail and guidance has been provided on how to apply a risk-based approach to determining inspection and testing frequencies, reporting and record keeping.

Record-keeping requirements

The information and guidance on reporting and record-keeping has improved and now provides greater detail on the format and content of inspection and testing reports and records.

In New Zealand, it is now a requirement to maintain a register of all electrical equipment and keep testing and inspection records. Test and tagging service providers can no longer report a simple pass or fail for each piece of equipment and must now document exact test measurements for each test performed including:

• Earth continuity resistance

• Insulation Resistance

• Leakage Current.

In Australia, the Standard states that records ‘should be kept’ and that the above is ‘highly recommended’.

Use of insulation tape

The new Standard specifically advises that insulation tape should not be used to repair damaged cord.

Updated inspection frequencies

Some recommended inspection and testing intervals have been revised.

It goes without saying – it is important everyone responsible for electrical safety in your organisation get across the changes and ensure that testing and tagging procedures meet the revised Standard.