Are there any special requirements for construction work?
Yes . Due to the hazardous nature of construction work regular inspection and testing of electrical equipment is warranted and must be carried out. The requirements are outlined in the WorkCover Code of Practice - Electrical practices for construction work.
Are there any special requirements for serviced or repaired electrical equipment?
Yes. Electrical equipment that has been serviced or repaired which could have effected electrical safety must be inspected, tested and tagged in accordance with the requirements of the Standard, AS/NZS 3760:2003 prior to the equipment being placed back into service.
Can a person who holds a National Restricted Electrical Licence (Disconnect/Reconnect) carry out testing and tagging?
A person who holds a Restricted Electrical Licence issued by the NSW Office of Fair Trading, or equivalent State agency is required to have completed a TAFE qualification following the completion of a training course of 54 hours duration. The training course covers a broad range of electrical related topics, including the use of testing instruments such as insulation resistance testers and multimeters.
People holding the above licence and who have maintained their level of competency through regular on-the-job use of electrical testing instruments, should be capable of performing the inspection and testing activities outlined in the Standard AS/NZ 3760:2003.
What is a Portable Appliance Tester (PAT)?
A PAT is an electronic testing instrument designed to perform a range of automatic tests on plug-in type electrical equipment as outlined in AS/NZS 3760:2003.
The results indicated by a PAT require no technical interpretation, however the instrument must still be used by a ‘competent person’ trained in its use.
Who is allowed to replace a plug or socket?
Plugs and extension cord sockets may be replaced by a non-electrically trained person, provided the person has been trained and found competent to fit plugs and sockets according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
On completion of this work, the items have to be inspected, tested and tagged. When replacing extension cord sockets, WorkCover recommends.
What guidance is available to help me comply with the electrical inspection and testing requirements of the Regulation?
WorkCover’s Code of Practice: Technical Guidance was released to help manage this issue. The code adopts, without alteration, the Australian Standard, AS/NZS 3760:2003 - In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment.
This Standard provides employers with practical guidance on the inspection and testing of, and record keeping about, electrical equipment they may use at their workplace. The Standard does not apply to construction sites.